Love takes the lead at 2026 Bellarine Sunset Run

REGISTRATIONS have opened for the Flying Brick Bellarine Sunset Run, with the popular coastal event to fall on Valentine’s Day for the first-time in its 11-year history.

Dubbed “The Love Edition,” the 2026 run leans into the Valentine’s Day timing, inviting couples, friends, families and solo participants to celebrate a shared love of movement, community and the Bellarine coastline as the sun sets.

After attracting a record 1,800 runners last year, the Bellarine Sunset Run has grown into one of the region’s most inclusive community sporting events. It welcomes runners and walkers of all ages and abilities, with participants able to choose from three event distances: a half marathon, 10km or 4km.

Event founder Dion Milne said the heart of the event had always been about connection as much as competition.

“Every year, we see more people come together to celebrate health, happiness and community,” Milne said.

“The Bellarine Sunset Run is about moving your body, enjoying the outdoors and sharing the experience with people you care about.

“It’s taken 11 years, and now we finally fall on Valentine’s Day.”

Beyond the race, the event is known for its relaxed, festival-style atmosphere, with music, food and sweeping sunset views creating a celebratory finish-line experience.

The run also continues its strong community focus through the 4km Bully Buster initiative, an event dedicated to promoting kindness, confidence and resilience among young people.

To ensure children can enjoy the sunset run, young people aged 12 and under can sign up for the 4km event for free until it is sold out.

The Bully Buster also serves as a major fundraiser for Bellarine Community Health’s youth services and has raised more than $40,000 throughout its history.

For more information, or to register, head to bellarinesunsetrun.com