Central Park Plunge for Anglicare WA
Four brave staff faced their fears and took part in this year’s ‘Central Park Plunge’ for Anglicare WA. The daring feat saw them abseiling 130 metres down Central Park Tower in Perth’s CBD, offering an exhilarating descent with arguably the best view in the city from the 33rd floor. Recognised as Australia’s tallest charity abseil, the event saw Mr Casey Willmore, Miss Emma Armstrong, Mr David La Galia, and Mrs Merri Corr raise over $5,000 to support Anglicare WA’s vital programs, helping those in need across the community.
Each participant reflected on their experience of facing their fears and tackling this incredible challenge:
Mr David La Galia
“Over the months leading up to the Plunge I was asked many times, ‘Aren’t you scared?’ or ‘Why are you doing this?’ The first question was easy to answer: I was terrified! I am very scared of heights, and even standing on a ladder makes me shake. So, why was I doing this? Well, as a School Psychologist at Swan Valley Anglican Community School, I always encourage students, staff and others to not let their fears or anxieties control their lives. So, I took the challenge to hopefully role model and show others that we all have the power to work through any difficulty and take on any challenge that life throws at us. Things might be hard, but we always have a choice about how to take on that challenge, to use the encouragement and strength of others, and to have genuine conversations about the things that challenge us. My hope was that through this challenge I would be able to at least inspire one young person to reach out for help and know that they are not alone with their fears, worries or anxieties.”
Mrs Merri Corr 
“Although I have done some abseiling before, nothing could prepare me for just how high up we were, dangling off the side of that building! We had breathtaking views of the city and river on a beautiful, sunny morning. I’m so proud of our team for pushing through some nerves, overcoming some fears and working together to abseil 130 metres down the side of one of Perth’s most recognisable buildings. What an amazing experience and an exhilarating way to raise money for a great cause.”
Miss Emma Armstrong 
“When I was first asked to participate in the Central Park Plunge, I was excited for the experience but hadn’t fully grasped that I would be abseiling down such a long way. As the date approached, the reactions of those around me made me increasingly nervous, as they were amazed by the height. On the day, I was not nearly as scared as I had anticipated. With my class, family and friends who had donated cheering me on, there was no way I wasn’t going to complete the Plunge. It ended up being an awesome experience, and I’m thankful for all the money raised to help less fortunate families in WA.”
Mr Casey Willmore
“Whether you have a fear of heights or are just curious to try something new, the Central Park Plunge is an event that shows anyone can rise to a challenge. This was my first time abseiling, and it was an incredible experience. Hanging off the side of a building is unlike anything else, yet I felt completely at ease knowing that experienced instructors were guiding each step of the descent. This event isn’t just for sports enthusiasts, it’s designed for everyday people who want to push their limits for a great cause. I highly recommend giving it a go!”