I’m sick of running for no reason! For the next three months, I’ve decided to train hard at minimum 3 days per week, kick the suds and smokes (those that know me, understand this is quite a feat), and work my way to smash a Half-Marathon (21 kms) in one go, three months from now – Saturday June 19 (rain or shine). Now, by no means am I athletic, but since becoming a new dad in 2020, I decided to get my health on track. The trek will be a city coastline and I’m allowing myself access to a solid playlist (music is what keeps me going.) The Cause(s) After deconstructing the cause and effect of a huge list of charities, I took some time out, and went for a run…. And that’s when my mind settled, I focussed on my breathing, and it all made sense - I’m going to choose 3 charities, injustices and causes that I feel are important to protecting our natural environment. They are as follows. 1. STOP THE MINING! SAVE NGARNDAMUKINA/LAKE TORRENS This country’s governments too often put industry and money before the Native Title of First Nations people, who have true connection to land, sea and culture. The land should be protected and cherished, learned about and acknowledged, as should indigenous culture. And now we see our government approving the drilling of Ngarndmukina/Lake Torrens, which is a significant cultural site to the Barngarla, Kokatha, Kuyani and Adnyamathanha people. Support the Campaign NOW - https://www.foe.org.au/save_lake_torrensv #alwayswasalwayswillbe 2. THE AUSTRALIAN MARINE CONSERVATION SOCIETY (AMCS) As I’ll be dedicating my 21.1 kms to beautiful Kaurna land coastline, looking out over the St Vincent Gulf. Giving to this charity protects ocean wildlife, overfishing and creates national parks and places for marine sea life to flourish. 3. ENVIRONMENTAL JUSTICE AUSTRALIA These guys are lawyers that act on behalf of people and community organisations to safeguard health; to protect magnificent forests, rivers and wildlife; and to tackle climate change. Conclusion I want my little man to grow up in a thriving natural environment. To respect and learn from First Nations culture and to cultivate native growth and enjoy the great Australian environment. So I’m gonna run about it.