Twin revival: school traditions restored to calendar

A popular Barwon Heads fun run will make its return this month for the first time since 2019, reviving a school fundraiser that once drew hundreds to the foreshore.

Established decades ago by parent volunteers at Barwon Heads Primary School, the Sheepwash Classic was a regular fixture for local families before the pandemic brought the event to a halt.

Its comeback on Sunday 29 March marks the end of a six-year absence, with runners and walkers set to take on 1km, 4km and 8km courses along the Barwon Heads and Ocean Grove foreshores.

Race director Levi Turner, of major event sponsor Bellarine Property, said the run had long held a special place in the community.

“It has such a rich history going back decades,” he said. “I have vivid and fun memories of running it as a child in the 90s.

Barwon Heads Primary School students line up on the beach ahead of the returning Sheepwash Classic, which will see runners and walkers take to the Barwon Heads and Ocean Grove foreshores on 29 March. Photo: Michael Chambers

“Seeing families, first-timers and long-time locals come together again is exciting. The run really captures what makes this community special.”

The event’s revival follows the primary school’s 150th anniversary celebrations last year, which renewed focus on reconnecting with past traditions and strengthening community ties.

“The return of the Sheepwash Classic is a wonderful way for our school community to reconnect with a tradition that means so much to Barwon Heads,” principal Rob Bennetts said.

“Events like this bring families, past students and locals together in a really positive way, and the support we receive goes directly back into opportunities for our students.”

The run will be followed by an even longer-awaited return.

The Barwon Heads Primary School Easter Fair, last held almost a decade ago, will again open the Golf Links Road campus to the wider community, with food stalls, rides, performances and activities planned across the day.