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Posted by David Sexton
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31 March, 2026
RAISING critical funds to improve the lives of seafarers across Australia, New Zealand and Oceania was the aim of Ports to Peaks, a charity event organised through the Mission to Seafarers.
Held at Thredbo in the New South Wales snowfields, teams from across the maritime industry came together for an event described by MtS regional director Sue Dight as a “high-energy, purpose-driven event”.
Sunshine, rain, and even a burst of snow set the stage for “an unforgettable inaugural Ports to Peaks challenge”.
“What began under clear alpine skies quickly turned into a true test of resilience, with teams navigating shifting conditions that mirrored the realities faced by seafarers at sea,” Ms Dight said.
“From trail challenges and team-based problem solving to moments of pure endurance, the event captured the spirit of the industry: adaptable, determined and deeply connected.”
The sponsors were HFW, GAC, Australian Mariners Welfare Society, and Pilbara Ports Authority.
Winners Announced
The contested challenges were across multiple courses and categories:
Kangaroo Course Winners: AMPI
Kiwi Course Winners: Port Nelson - Mission to Seafarers
Top Fundraisers: With You For The Long Haul - Team PB Australia
Team Spirit Award: Wellington Mission to Seafarers
“Each team brought not only competitive energy but a strong sense of purpose, rallying support and raising critical funds to improve the lives of seafarers across Australia, New Zealand, Papua New Guinea and the Pacific,” Ms Dight said.
The momentum behind Ports to Peaks has extended beyond the mountains. The week prior, WISTA West Australia hosted a fun run, raising $10,280 in support of seafarer welfare.
“It is a strong signal of industry commitment to practical, on-the-ground support for crews,” Ms Dight said.
While the mountain challenge concluded, the fundraising effort is still underway.
An interim total of $71,980 already has been raised, with more expected as donations continue to come in.
Supporters can contribute or start their own fundraising initiative.
Click here to donate or set up a fundraiser.
More than a challenge
Ms Dight said Ports to Peaks was designed as more than a physical event.
“It is a demonstration of shared responsibility across the maritime sector. Participants tested themselves across terrain and conditions while reinforcing the strength of industry collaboration in supporting those who spend their lives at sea,” Ms Dight said.
“Despite the changing weather, morale remained high, with teams embracing every element from sunshine to snowfall with humour and determination.”
Ms Dight said the success of this inaugural event set “a strong foundation” for Ports to Peaks as an ongoing fixture in the maritime calendar.
“With growing engagement across the sector, the challenge will continue to build momentum, strengthen partnerships and deliver tangible support for seafarers.”
The next event is set for 2028.
