FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
GENERAL
Who can take part in the challenge?
This one’s for the big kids only. You’ve gotta be 18 or over to take on the Vertical 5km.
How much does it cost to enter?
There’s no entry fee, but each participant is encouraged to raise at least $500 and each team $1000 for the Leukaemia Foundation. Every dollar makes a difference to Australians living with blood cancer.
How do I share my progress?
Post your climbs, stair sessions, and trail runs using #Vertical5kmChallenge. Share your mountain, share the pain, and inspire others to get involved.
How do I prove my elevation gain?
Upload screenshots or data from your GPS watch, Strava, or fitness app. If you’re using a treadmill, you can manually log elevation based on distance and incline.
What do I get for finishing?
Digital badges, a finisher’s certificate, bragging rights, and your name on the challenge leaderboard. Plus, you’ll be part of a nationwide community raising life-changing funds.
What if I don’t hit 5,000 metres?
This challenge is about pushing yourself, not perfection. Do your best, log your climb, and know that every step (and dollar raised) counts.
Who do I contact if I need help?
FIND YOUR MOUNTAIN
What is the (National) Vertical 5km Challenge?
It’s not about distance, it’s about vertical gain. Your mission: climb 5,000 vertical metres between 26–30 November 2025. You can do it in one hit or chip away over five days—solo or with your crew.
How do I take part?
Register online, plan your “mountain” (stairs, hills, trails, treadmill—whatever works), and start climbing. Track your metres using a GPS watch, Strava, fitness app, or even treadmill readouts.
Is it safe?
Choose routes that suit your fitness and experience. Stay hydrated, pace yourself, and don’t take risks on unsafe terrain. Always follow local health and safety guidelines.
Can beginners take part?
For sure. You don’t need to be an elite athlete—this challenge is about giving it a crack. Every metre counts, and teaming up is a great way to push each other to the top.
Do I have to climb 5,000 metres on my own?
Nope. You can go solo or take it on as a team. If you’re in a crew, you can share the load and chip away at the 5,000m together.
Can I spread the 5,000 metres over the five days?
Absolutely. Smash it in one brutal climb or spread it across the five days—it’s your mountain, your way.
THE CAUSE
Where does the money raised through Bloody Mission go?
Every dollar you raise through the Vertical 5 km challenge is directed to the Leukaemia Foundation, where it supports Australians living with blood cancer and funds critical research.
Specifically, your contribution helps:
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Provide accommodation close to hospitals for patients and families during treatment.
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Offer transport assistance so patients can get to life-saving appointments.
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Deliver financial assistance grants and emotional support services.
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Support research into new treatments and cures for blood cancers (leukaemia, lymphoma, myeloma).
If I don’t meet my fundraising goal, does the money still help?
Absolutely! Even if you don’t hit your personal target, every dollar you raise still contributes to the Leukaemia Foundation’s work supporting people with blood cancer.
Are donations tax deductible?
Yes, the Leukaemia Foundation is a Deductible Gift Recipient (DGR). Donations over AUD $2 made directly to the Leukaemia Foundation (through your registered fundraising page or via the Leukaemia Foundation's other donation channels) are eligible for a tax deduction.
