Media Release

David Smith MP will be taking part in the Menslink Great Walk 2026, which will begin from Parliament House on Tuesday the 10th of November.

Mr. Smith will be raising $10,000 for Menslink, a local organisation helping young men make better choices and engage positively with society.

Menslink works with young boys and men through a range of mentoring, counselling and education programs, across the Capital Region. They help them develop important life skills, resilience, mental health awareness, and healthy relationships. Last year Menslink provided support to more than 10,000 young people across the region.

The Menslink Great Walk is in its 6th year, with Mr. Smith having participated in the walks since 2023. Running since 2021, the Great Walk involves community leaders walking 140km of the centenary trail—20 to 30km a day over five days. It has raised over $1.83 million for Menslink across the years it's been running.

In addition to his commitment to take part in the Great Walk, Mr. Smith has also committed to completing #80WalksIn80Days, with the 80th walk to be completed as part of the Great Walk.

Quotes attributable to David Smith MP, Member for Bean

“The work of Menslink is transformative for many Canberra families, and the opportunity to raise awareness of this work as well as raise much needed funds has me dusting off my walking shoes.

“Finding your place in the world has never been easy, and it is only getting harder. The work Menslink is doing to support young men as they go through this is crucial, as it ensures these young men develop positive healthy relationships with those around them.

“The walk itself is also a great way to build connection throughout our community, and a highlight of doing 80 walks in 80 days has been the opportunity it has provided to reach out to old friends, and create new ones.”