Being fit and strong for service in the ADF can be physically demanding, but for one Air Force reservist it was mere preparation to complete one of the toughest endurance challenges he is ever likely to face.
Aircraftman Harrison Reid, who works for Security Flight at 34 Squadron in Canberra, recently completed the Special Forces Challenge to help raise money for disadvantaged youth.
Billed as the 'Ultimate Fundraiser', the Special Forces Challenge is run by an elite team of ex-military personnel that puts 30 recruits through a series of gruelling physical and psychological activities for 30 hours across two days.
For Aircraftman Reid, the challenge was a little more than he bargained for.
"I went into this thinking it could almost be a walk in the park given my Defence training, but it very quickly dawned on me that it was going to be extremely tough," Aircraftman Reid said.
"Several times at the start of the challenge I questioned myself saying what on Earth have I gotten myself into and lost count of the number of times I thought about quitting.
"It was only after a couple of hours into the challenge that I thought I have this and could push through.
"Another motivating factor was of course what we were all doing this for - to help struggling young Australians who just need a little support and motivation to get their lives on track and headed in the right direction."
The Special Forces Challenge is a key activity of the not-for-profit Terry Campese Foundation whose mission is to build brighter futures for young Australians.
This year's event was so successful that Aircraftman Reid was part of the highest money-raising challenge so far for the foundation - notching up more than half a million dollars.
"It was without doubt one of the hardest things I've ever done but at the same time, so incredibly rewarding knowing that we may have inspired even just a few young people to see the value of effort and hard work and how it can enrich your life," Aircraftman Reid said.
"Who knows, I may have inspired others to join Air Force that I'm convinced would be a turning point for the better in any young Australian's life.
"I'd do it all again without hesitation."
To learn more about the challenge visit Special Forces Challenge and the Terry Campese Foundation.
