An FMC grant scheme is helping Duke of Edinburgh trampers to take their expeditions to the next level.

The Adventurous Journey Grants scheme is aimed at trampers undertaking their Duke of Ed Hillary Award Gold and Silver expeditions.

The cash grants, sponsored by Maerewhenua Trust, can be used to cover expedition expenses such as transport, hut fees, food and gear.

“It’s hoped that the grants would be the difference between a Gold Duke of Ed trip in the Kaimanawas instead of the Kaimais or Fiordland instead of the Craigieburns for young people,” FMC vice president Tania Seward said.

The scheme awards grants quarterly and has been running since March this year. 

A group from Otamatea High School in Northland were the first recipients of the grant. The funds helped the group travel to Fiordland to complete 92km on the Greenstone, Caples and Routeburn tracks over four days for their Gold Award expedition.

Seward, who took part in the Duke of Ed in school and has been involved since as an assessor, says there is something “magic” about the journeys.

“It’s a chance for people to really come together, and you see skills and experience gel – it can be a real transformation for young people,” she said.

2019 Applications are open until November 15 – visit fmc.org.nz for more.