We are so excited to announce radio and TV presenter, Jo Stanley, will join us as a Coastrek Ambassador for Melbourne Coastrek with her team - The 4 Broads – taking on the challenge in support of raising awareness for women’s health.
“I truly believe in the power of connecting women with women to achieve great things – and a shared experience like Coastrek not only encourages better health and wellbeing, it also shines a light on the ongoing need for mental health support throughout the community.”
Great to have you on board as Coastrek Ambassador – you’ll be walking the 30km event on the Mornington Peninsula with your team The 4 Broads, any highlights you’re looking forward to on the walk?
Having grown up in Melbourne, I have a soft spot for the Mornington Peninsula – Portsea and Sorrento are easy to revisit time and time again although this time I’ll be on a mission rather than on a beach! But I’m also looking forward to checking out parts of the Peninsula that I’m not familiar with like Farnsworth track to London Bridge and Butlers Track, and I’m sure Point Nepean will be spectacular not only because of the views but because that’s also where the finish line is! I’m walking with a group of friends and we are going to treat ourselves to some downtime after the walk so maybe some day spas and wineries are on the cards.
What piqued your interest in taking on a Coastrek challenge?
So many things! I love the connection between being out in nature and its positive effects on mental health and wellbeing; that it connects women not only with one another but also to building an ongoing relationship with health and fitness; and the support for Beyond Blue – so many of us have been touched by mental health either from our own experience or that of family or friends, so anything we can do to raise awareness and funds for the Beyond Blue 24 hour support line is a worthwhile undertaking.
Any favourite spots you’ll be frequenting for training?
I’ve always been a runner (and I’m told there are a whole set of different muscles I’ll be engaging for trekking!) so some of my favourite trails include Merri Creek in Melbourne’s northern suburbs, the Yarra River, and walking bayside from Port Melbourne all the way around to Black Rock. Basically anything next to water - and we’re very blessed in Melbourne that the tracks connect for kilometres. But my teammates live in all different parts of Melbourne so we’ll be combining individual training with group get togethers. I think that’s the only way to juggle busy lives and stay committed to the Coastrek training program.
You’ve had great success with the launch of Broad Radio, which is live radio and podcasts – but you’re building to something! What’s next?
Broad Radio is in it’s very early stage. We livestream once a week on Facebook and Youtube, and yes, you can catch up via our podcast. But our end goal is a radio network for women, by women, and so we’re building an app, which will mean our programs are delivered to you just the same as any live radio or podcast platform you currently listen to. We’re planning on launching the app by the end of the year, and the exciting thing is, anyone can download it and listen wherever they are. Even when they’re out training for Coastrek!
You’ve had some great guests on the show (including our own Di Westaway!) – who else is on your wishlist?
There are so many incredible women who have been trailblazers and have inspirational stories, it’s very hard to narrow it down! Of course women like Kylie Minogue, Tina Arena and Rebel Wilson. Or there’s startup founder Melanie Perkins or first female Chief Justice Susan Kiefel. Or human rights lawyer Professor Megan Davis who is doing incredible things for reconciliation in Australia. But honestly, one of my favourite things about radio is always hearing from our listeners, so when the app is launched talk back will be a feature of our live shows - and I can’t wait to hear the diverse and glorious stories of every woman out there, because they’re all amazing!
