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A TEAM of 12 locals is preparing to put their fitness to the test in the name of charity.
The group, led by Pakenham Upper resident Carina Venturi, is in training for the Upstream 50km challenge, a walk along the Yarra River from the Docklands to Donvale on 7 November.
Team Cookie Divas and Cookie Divos have already raised $2000 – and walked countless kilometres – in the lead-up to the walk.
Ms Venturi said the group, sponsored by her business Home Bake Cookie Company, had been in training since August.
They have been completing walks around the hilly, and picturesque, Pakenham Upper, ranging from 14km to 40km.
“It’s been awesome,” Ms Venturi said.
“I’ve enjoyed the company of everybody and the challenge.”
Ms Venturi said it was a great way for members of the group to stay fit while raising money for a good cause.
Proceeds from the walk will go towards four charities: Camp Quality, Samaritan’s Purse, Leprosy Mission Australia and the Leukaemia Foundation.
To sponsor Cookie Divas and Cookie Divos, visit www.upstreamfoundation.org, click on donate, sponsor a team, type in Cookie Divas and Cookie Divos and follow the prompts.
To follow the group’s progress go to www.thehomebakedcookie.com/upstream.html. For more information about the foundation visit upstreamfoundation.org