THE exertion of tackling the Great Wall of China was matched with elation at the same time for Leeton's Mark and Kylie Smith.
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The couple have returned from their adventure, which was all in aid of the Black Dog Institute's Hike for Mental Health.
As a result of a year of fundraising, which culminated in the walk at the Great Wall of China, the pair have raised just under $43,000 for the organisation, which works in the field of mental health services.
The pair were among a group of 22 Australians who were also raising funds for the institute, with their money going towards the final tally of $206,000.
"We've just found out that was more than what was raised for the institute by the 300 participants of this year's City2Surf who selected them as their chosen charity," Mrs Smith said.
"When it's put into those numbers, it's really amazing.
"We were a small group and it was a lot of hard work, but it's fantastic we've been able to raise so much.
"Hopefully the Black Dog Institute will come to Leeton soon and put on an event here so people can have that direct access to them."
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In terms of the walk itself, the first two days of the trek were quite gruelling, but once the pair found their feet, they conquered the task just like they hope people in Leeton shire will do when it comes to any mental health issues they may be going through.
The touring side of the trip was a slight let down for the participants, with China celebrating its 70th anniversary.
This meant many areas in Beijing were teaming with people at the time, making it difficult to enjoy the surroundings.
The walk was the second time the pair have participated in a physical challenge while raising money for the institute. In 2015 they cycled through Vietnam and Cambodia.
Mrs Smith thanked the Leeton community for its support of their fundraising efforts over the past year. "It's been a massive effort," she said.
"We're very grateful to have had the support of the community."
The Black Dog Institute is a translational research institute that aims to reduce the incidence of mental illness and the stigma around it.
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