Brooke McIntosh is creating change, breaking stigmas, and showing real courage by being a voice for others like her, who face mental health challenges.
As a result of childhood trauma, Brooke has grappled with bulimia, anxiety and depression. Following a near-fatal collision with a truck, she realised that she didn't want to die, she just wanted the pain to go away. Brooke turned to running as a form of therapy.
In 2023, Brooke ran 1,600 km from the Pilbara to Perth, raising over $70,000 for mental health causes. In 2025, she ran 14,200 km around Australia in 204 days, averaging 70 km each day, as the youngest and fastest woman to do so, raising over $290,000 for the Blue Tree Project in the process.
Brooke demonstrates that resilience isn’t reserved for elite athletes, it's built daily. Her ultra-distance run showcases that resilience. Brooke is encouraging Australians to confront hardship openly and support one another. She believes that just one more conversation may save a life.