By Brendan Rees
While growing up in South Sudan, Andrew Gai feared being kidnapped by militants from another tribe.
“The children who were taken by these militants were used as slaves,” he said.
“As a result, children in my village had to be in their homes before the sun goes down.
“Children were not allowed to go far away from the village although we had to look after our cattle, goats and sheep in the bushes,” Mr Gai of Cranbourne said.
Since arriving in Australia 12 years ago, Mr Gai realised his fears back home could not interfere with his life anymore.
Next month, Mr Gai will be out of his comfort zone by abseiling 113 metres down the iconic St James building in the heart of the Melbourne CBD.
The abseil is an Altitude Shift fundraiser event organised by Anglicare Victoria to raise much-needed funds for children in foster care.
Mr Gai said he used to climb up some tall trees in home village in South Sudan but those trees were not as tall as 27 storey building. “So definitely this is out of my comfort zone and I am trying not to think about it too much.”
Mr Gai is a therapeutic practitioner at Anglicare Victoria, and says participating in the event is important for allowing children and young people in foster care know that “we as a community understand your fears.”
“We are with you and we are grateful for the people, the families who have opened their doors and hearts to provide you a home and a family,” he said.
“I encourage everyone to get on board in raising fund through the Altitude Shift and let’s show our support to the children and young people in foster care.
“I now know that fears do not define our future. But this is only possible with support and access to opportunities.
Mr Gai recalled having fears about whether he would be accepted in his new home country: “Thankfully, I came across kind-hearted people through my local church and in the community.”
“After finishing my studies, I was very lucky to be employed by Anglicare Victoria were I felt supported and valued,” he said.
The event takes place on 29-30 March and anyone can take part in the event; there are no weight, fitness or experience requirements.
“We’re pleased to see so many people taking on the challenge of Altitude Shift. By facing their fears, these participants are helping to raise much-needed funds to support children in foster care,” said Paul McDonald, CEO of Anglicare Victoria.
The record number of participants Altitude Shift has recorded to date was in 2018, with a total of 148 participants with $170,000 also raised.
