Thousands of South Australians have braved icy conditions to support a key annual fundraiser for one of Adelaide's most cherished charitable organisations, with the crew from HMAS Encounter front and centre providing a helping hand.
Each winter, the Hutt Street Centre, a place of connection and support for people facing homelessness in South Australia, hosts its annual 'Walk a Mile in My Boots' fundraising drive.
South Australians are encouraged to strap on their sneakers and raise awareness during National Homelessness Week.
This year, the charity raised more than half-a-million dollars to support operations at the Hutt Street Centre, helping people with basic needs such as a shower, a meal, and a charged phone, medical check-ups and financial counselling.
More than 7000 people raised money by walking between two and 10 miles (3.2 to 16 kilometres) each day during National Homelessness week from August 4-10, culminating in a mile-long (1.6 kilometre) 'final lap' of Adelaide's Victoria Park.
To support the thousands of South Australians participating in the final event, Defence personnel volunteered their time to 'bump in and bump out' setting up the course, while also providing logistical support around the walking track throughout the event.
Commanding Officer Encounter Commander Tony Ryder said he was thrilled to be able to provide the support to ensure the event was a success.
"We are proud of the community where we live and serve," Commander Ryder said.
"To be able to use our skills and expertise to help host an event of this size and scale speaks volumes of the professionalism and dedication to duty we display every day."
'It is important that we let the people of South Australia know their Defence Force is with them at all times.'
First Lieutenant Encounter Lieutenant Commander Ian Jordan said Navy had been providing logistical support to the event as long as 'records remember', relishing the opportunity to show the people of South Australia that Navy stands with them.
"The Navy isn't just about ships at sea," Lieutenant Commander Jordan said.
"It is important that we let the people of South Australia know their Defence Force is with them at all times. We are proud to serve our country abroad, and in the community at home."
Participating in her first 'Walk a Mile in My Boots' fundraising drive was Able Seaman Alice Bore, who reflected it wasn't only a fun morning out, but a great opportunity to volunteer.
"I enjoyed the chance to meet and interact with not just other Defence members, but get out and meet different members of the community from all walks of life," Able Seaman Bore said
Hutt Street Centre's general manager of advocacy, Lauren Kilsby, said by assisting in providing the logistical support for the event, Defence allowed more money raised to be used where it was needed most, helping those facing homelessness.
"The 'Walk a Mile in My Boots' event this year had more than 2000 participants," Ms Kilsby said.
"The event would not run as efficiently as it has without the assistance of the HMAS Encounter and RAAF Edinburgh team."
The Hutt Street Centre provides essential support allowing those facing homelessness to focus on the future, helping connect people with housing, education and employment opportunities to build the skills and confidence to change their circumstances for good.
