Walking for Change: Launceston Grammar Students and SPEAK UP! Stay ChatTY! Unite for Youth Mental Health

In a powerful show of solidarity for youth mental health, Grade 12 students from Launceston Grammar have joined forces with SPEAK UP! Stay ChatTY!, in a mission to bring awareness to youth mental health, by walking 80-kilometres, over 24-hours from Deloraine to Mowbray. 

Now in its 63rd year, the school’s annual Walkathon is a longstanding tradition and a defining milestone for Grade 12 students. Students started their journey at Deloraine at 10am on Thursday 16 April, walking overnight via Hagley, Rosevale and Riverside, and finishing at the School’s Mowbray Campus this morning at 10am to a celebratory School Guard of Honour. 

This year, the Walkathon takes on a deeply collaborative focus, with students working alongside SPEAK UP! Stay ChatTY! to bring awareness to youth mental health, championing open conversations and reducing the stigma surrounding it. 

Over the course of a 24-hour period, the Class of 2026 walked alongside their 75 peers, supported by parents and staff, pushing their physical and mental limits in support of a cause that resonates strongly with young people across Tasmania. The partnership reflects a shared commitment to ensuring that no one feels alone in their struggles, and that support is visible, accessible and encouraged.

“The Class of 2026 at Launceston Grammar have chosen the charity SPEAK UP! Stay ChaTY! for our legacy project. We made this choice as we wanted to play our part in ensuring teenagers and young adults speak up and seek support when they need it,” said Isobel Talbut, Grade 12 Student.

100% of funds raised through the Walkathon and the Grade 12 Legacy Project throughout 2026 will directly support SPEAK UP! Stay ChatTY!’s work in delivering mental health education, fostering meaningful conversations, and building stronger, more connected communities. 

The students have set an ambitious fundraising goal of $50,000, inviting the wider community to walk alongside them in spirit by contributing to the cause. To date, more than $30,000 has been raised. Donations can be made via: https://www.mycause.com.au/page/383607/2026-launceston-grammar-walkathon-legacy-project