Laps for bereaved children

WOMBAT’S Wish is calling on the local community to step up as its Wombat’s Walk returns on Sunday, October 12.

The community event, to be held at the Portarlington Cricket Ground, will be filled with fun, connection and purpose.

As part of the event, families, friends, schools and workplaces are invited to head along and walk laps of the oval to raise much-needed funds for the charity. The Clifton Springs-based organisation supports children who have experienced the death of a parent with grief programs, one-on-one counselling, family days and other support resources.

“All funds raised will go directly to helping children and young people who have experienced the death of a parent,” Wombat’s Wish general manager Nicki Dunne said.

“By joining the walk or attending on the day, you’re giving grieving children hope, support and help to ensure that no child or young person grieves alone.”

Ms Dunne said on top of raising money for the programs, the walk is also about increasing the awareness of Wombat’s Wish.

The community event will feature plenty of entertainment away from the lap walkers, with jumping castles, face painting, a petting zoo, rides and more.

“It might not necessarily be someone there that’s had a parent die, but it might be someone there that knows someone who it’s happened to, and they can talk to them about it.”

This year’s event will follow a similar format to last year, with participants collecting sponsorship for each lap they walk.

Outside of the walk, community members are invited to enjoy the event’s additional festivities, which have doubled in size, as the walk enters its second year.

In 2025, entertainment will include vintage cars, rides, an animal farm, a netball clinic run by Emily Mannix, live music and more.

“It’s not just a day for our families, it’s a whole community event and it’s a fun day to come down and make connections and help us for a good cause,” Ms Dunne said.

A gold coin donation is required for entry, with those interested in making a greater impact or registering for the walk encouraged to contact the Wombat’s Wish team.

For more information, head to wombatswish.org.au/news/2025-wombats-walk