979 kilometres - St Teresa’s Catholic College steps up for Darkness to Daylight challenge

For the 11th year in a row, St Teresa’s Catholic College, Noosaville students and staff laced up their shoes for Challenge DV’s 12‑hour Darkness to Daylight challenge, demonstrating their ongoing commitment to ending domestic and family violence.

This year’s team of four staff and 20 students delivered a record-breaking performance, walking and running 979km and raising over $13,000 to support domestic violence survivors, advocacy, education and prevention programs.

St Teresa’s Catholic College Principal Sam Anderson said the College was recognised as the top fundraising school and the third overall team in Queensland in the 2026 challenge.

“This year’s effort is one of our strongest to date and a testament to the compassion and determination of our students and staff,” he said.

“To see our team come together to cover 979 kilometres through the night and into the morning, all while raising vital funds, speaks volumes about the collective spirit and commitment to making a difference in the lives of others.”

Sam adds the College was proud to continue its long-standing support of the Darkness to Daylight initiative.

“Events like this are about more than fundraising, they are about raising awareness, standing in solidarity with those affected by domestic and family violence, and showing our young people the power of action and community.”

In recognition of St Teresa’s Catholic College’s contribution, the team was invited to attend a special reception at Government House, hosted by Her Excellency the Honourable Dr Jeannette Young AC PSM, Governor of Queensland, and Professor Graeme Nimmo RFD. 

During the reception, St Teresa’s Catholic College’s Why We Run program was highlighted for its meaningful impact, with students also sharing their experiences directly.

The Why We Run program provides students with a powerful learning opportunity, encouraging them to engage with real survivor stories, reflect on the issue of domestic and family violence, and take action through participation in Darkness to Daylight.

“Through weekly training, group discussions and personal reflection, students develop a deeper understanding of respectful relationships, social justice and their role in building safer communities,” Samuel adds.

“The program continues to have a lasting impact within the College, fostering student leadership, empathy and social responsibility. 

“It also strengthens a culture of kindness, inclusion and peer support across the school community.”

In 2026, Brisbane Catholic Education also took part in the fundraiser, with 20 office staff participating and $1450 raised to support those experiencing domestic and family violence.

For more information about St Teresa’s Catholic College, Noosaville or to enrol click here.

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About Darkness to Daylight:

Darkness to Daylight is Queensland’s premier event for domestic and family violence awareness and prevention and Challenge DV’s major fundraiser.

Established by MinterEllison’s Robert Reed OAM in 2014, Darkness to Daylight gives the community the opportunity to do something physical and meaningful to contribute to domestic and family violence prevention, gain a deeper understanding of the public health issue, and honour lives lost, at any time, to domestic violence.

Image caption: For the 11th year in a row, St Teresa’s Catholic College, Noosaville students and staff laced up their shoes for Challenge DV’s 12‑hour Darkness to Daylight challenge. ©Brisbane Catholic Education, St Teresa's Catholic College, Noosaville (2026).