Steve Hirst aims to break world record at Sunshine Coast Stadium

While reading a Guiness Book of world records with his son, a Sunshine Coast businessman found his next challenge – the world’s longest lawn mowing effort. Read why here.

Sunshine Coast businessman Steve Hirst is preparing to set a new 24-hour world record for pushing a lawnmower by an individual.

The current record is held by United Kingdom man Andy Maxfield, who pushed a lawnmower 92.80km in 2019.

But, after reading a Guiness Book of World Records he bought his son for Christmas last year, Mr Hirst is convinced he can mow down his British opponent.

“I thought (92.80km) was impressive at the time, but then I started doing the maths in my head and I thought … ‘hang on a minute, I think I can do that!,” he said.

His attempt was approved by the Guiness Book of World Records 12 weeks later, but Mr Hirst was already thinking bigger and decided to turn his world record attempt into a fundraiser for local charity, the Integrated Family Youth Service (IFYS).

Sunshine Coast businessman Steve Hirst (left) with IFYS marketing manager Paul Morton. Photo: Elizabeth Neil

The Sunshine-Coast based service is dedicated to child protection, disability services, domestic violence and food programs, as well as providing accommodation for homeless youth.

Mr Hirst’s goal is to raise $70,000 for a new VW Transporter to be used as a shuttle bus for the Old Church Youth Accommodation.

He said the IFYS was a charity close to his heart, especially after working closely with the organisation to alleviate the homelessness crisis on the Sunshine Coast.

IFYS marketing manager Paul Morton said homelessness on the Sunshine Coast was “more insidious” than in a major city.

Steve Hirst will spend 24 hours walking laps of the Sunshine Coast Stadium on from 7am on Friday, October 7, to raise money for Sunshine Coast based charity, the IFYS. Photo: Elizabeth Neil

“Homelessness here is a very hidden problem … you’ve got people who are … couch surfing, sleeping in cars, under bridges, in squats et cetera,” he said.

The shuttle bus would be dedicated to helping transport homeless youth within the organisation to work, training opportunities and other important appointments.

“It’s not a taxi service, but I guess it’s a support service for young people in terms of getting them to the places they need to be,” he said.

Mr Hirst will complete the 24-hour challenge by walking continuous laps around the Sunshine Coast Stadium in Bokarina from 7am on Friday, October 7, until 7am on Saturday, October 8.

Originally published as Steve Hirst aims to break world record at Sunshine Coast Stadium