Since they began in September 2019, the Australian bushfires have killed at least 26 people and destroyed over 2,000 homes. Also severely affected by the fires are Australia’s animals, losing their lives and habitats to the ravaging flames.
Over 1.25 billion animals are believed to be dead and more than 30% of the koala’s habitat across the country has been destroyed in the bushfires. Koalas are currently listed as vulnerable to extinction, which is a category just above endangered, in Australia.
A recent online challenge (above and below), which asks participants to achieve koala-like movements in the gym, has started gaining momentum. Started by FITAID, a fitness beverage company, the challenge requires that one must lie flat on a workout bench, and then shift the entire body to hang from the underside of the bench. The body must not touch the floor or leave the bench.
Australian athlete James Newbury (above), has been among many to perform the challenge. When done correctly, participants end up hanging from the underside of the bench, looking much like a relaxed koala.
For every video that is posted on social media of someone doing the challenge, the company has said it will donate $5 to help raise money for the people, firefighters, and wildlife affected by the fires.
Also watch
Meet this koala, who was rescued from the deadly bushfires in Australia
Aerial footage of Australia’s bushfires shows regions still engulfed in flames
A magpie makes fire engine sounds amidst devastating bushfires in Australia
Also read
What Australia’s bushfires mean for the country’s most enduring tourism icon – the Koala
Bushfire crisis: Australia may list Koalas as ‘endangered’, pledges $50 million for wildlife
Limited-time offer: Big stories, small price. Keep independent media alive. Become a Scroll member today!
Our journalism is for everyone. But you can get special privileges by buying an annual Scroll Membership. Sign up today!