Surfing for a Cause

Since 2012, teams of young people have gathered annually on sunny, April mornings and raced brightly decorated, second-hand couches through Civic Park in Darwin’s CBD. From the outside, it might seem like a bit of fun, but it’s all in support of a very important cause.

By Kate Conway

The ever-popular Couch Surfing race, which is presented by Anglicare NT in cahoots with City of Darwin, raises awareness for youth homelessness and celebrates the resilience of young people affected. Hellen Kenyi is a young person who previously experienced homelessness, and overcame obstacles with support from Anglicare NT’s programs.

“I am so thankful to Anglicare, before that I was homeless with my kids. We were sleeping in a car, and moving from my friend’s house to my mum’s house and back again. At my mum’s house, we were living on the floor. It was hard,” she says. 

“I was so excited when Anglicare finally helped me find a house – all I wished for was my own place with my children, and they made my wish come true.” 

Hellen’s story highlights the realities for young people doing it rough in the Territory. Sadly, the NT has 12 times the national average rate of homelessness, and the equal highest rate of youth homelessness in Australia. Every night, there are over 3,000 young Territorians couch surfing with friends and family, or sleeping rough on the streets. 

As well as the action-packed races, the event offers free entertainment and food, and information stalls from local organisations. This National Homelessness Matters Day, head down for a bit of fun, check out the racing action, and help raise awareness for this very worthy cause. 

Couch Surfing
WHEN WED 19 APR | 10.30AM-2.30PM
AT CIVIC PARK
COST FREE
INFO anglicare-nt.org.au

Photos: Charlie Bliss