Skydeck’s the limit

Southbank resident Danae Trethewey is pumped about taking on the area’s greatest physical challenge.

Danae is signed up for the annual Eureka Climb on November 13 and is very excited about the prospect.

“Absolutely, yes, I am looking forward to the challenge,” Danae exclaimed as she glanced up at the tower she was soon to take on.

The climb up one of the worlds’s tallest residential building is a gruelling test of endurance.

Danae has been in training for a while now, all in preparation for the big day.

“My training has consisted mainly of lower body exercise – cycling, squats and of course stair climbing,” she said.

The climb isn’t just a physical and mental test its competitors. It also raises money for charity partners Whitelion and Interplast, which support disadvantaged young people both in Australia and overseas.

That means it doesn’t matter how fit you are, you can still get involved and support the event.

For competitors there are two options. Either take on the climb as a team of four, or (for the brave among us) go for it alone.

Event organisers are very excited about the race, with Eureka Tower building manager Peter Jones saying they were making sure the tower would be ready for the big day.

“We are all very excited and working hard to make sure the tower is at its best for race day. Registrations are going well and we hope to see a big crowd,” Mr Jones said, knowing just what the race means to the top competitors.

“The elite race has some of Australia’s best stair climbers and they are very serious about the event. It’s in the top ten of the highest stair climbs in the world, so we have to make sure that nothing is left to chance,” he said.

The event is hoping to raise $250,000 this year, and hopefully all the locals can get involved in the fundraising efforts.

Danae urged all Southbank locals to get behind the climb.

“It’s a great community event, and you can get involved in so many ways. Elite race, walking or donating and sponsoring,” Danae said.

“Even if I only do it once, I know it will be a great achievement,” she said.

To register for the event or sponsor a climber such as Danae, head to the website

www.eurekaclimb.com.au.