Residents asked to help ease financial weight

Melissa Maxey, Terence, Jess Xuereb. (Supplied)

Melissa Maxey didn’t expect to be able to deadlift 280 kilograms when she flew to the United States to compete in the Static Monsters World Championship Competition in October last year.

“It was a surprise to me too,” she said.

“But it was in the moment, the adrenaline.”

The Werribee resident has since qualified for this year’s championship, and is hoping to crowdfund her way there.

“We’re headed to the UK, for a worldwide strong man competition,” Ms Maxey said.

The paediatric nurse turned powerlifter has so far secured eight world records and 26 Australian records, and is hoping to add to the wins this year.

Also qualifying for the competition are Terence and Jess Xuereb, who can each deadlift 390kg and 220kg respectively.

“The three of us qualified from Werribee and are hopefully heading over together,” Ms Maxey said.

The trio have set up a GoFundMe page in an effort to raise $10,000 to cover the costs of flights, accommodation and other expenses.

“The support of the sport, and supporting us in the sport, and having the local community support us…is exciting, [makes us feel] proud, [and is] motivating,” she said.

The Static Monsters world championships will be held from July 29-30.

Details: bit.ly/3RDJe9h