Walking for little hearts

THIS October, Geelong will come together for a meaningful and inspiring occasion — the HeartKids’ Two Feet & A Heartbeat Walk.

Taking place on October 26 at 10am along Torquay’s Elephant Walk, the event offers a powerful opportunity to support children, teens, and adults living with childhood-onset heart disease (CoHD), while honouring loved ones lost too soon.

This is the second year the community has rallied in Torquay, a seaside town known for its stunning beaches and scenic coastal walks, with the waterfront providing the perfect backdrop for the heartfelt event.

The event will come to a close at about 12.30pm, allowing families plenty of time to enjoy the day’s festivities.

Generous support from Mt Duneed Men’s Shed, Bunnings Waurn Ponds, and Connect Tel, has allowed event organisers to offer some fantastic free entertainment for families who sign up to walk.

Attendees can enjoy an interactive animal farm, the Lions Club train, a lively DJ, photo booth, and a beautiful butterfly gazebo.

The activities are aimed at helping HeartKids families connect, share stories, and seek support from one another in a welcoming and fun environment.

This year, HeartKids is proud to introduce Xavier as the Heart Angel. Xavier’s family will be walking in his honour, with the support of the HeartKids community every step of the way.

HeartKids encourage everyone — families, friends, colleagues, and community members — to join and help spread the word.

Participation can make a real difference in the lives of children and families affected by heart disease.

Whether you walk, share this event with others, or show your support through donations and sponsorships, every action helps raise vital awareness and funds.

The Two Feet & A Heartbeat walk is more than just a walk, it’s a movement to raise awareness and vital funds for HeartKids’ support programs.

All funds raised will go toward increasing accessibility to services such as hospital support, family programs, camps, educational days, and peer support networks — especially in rural and regional areas where resources are often limited.

HeartKids chief executive Marcus Sandmann emphasised the significance of the event.

“Two Feet & A Heartbeat brings families, friends, and communities together to remember those we’ve lost and to celebrate the children and adults living with heart disease. It’s an event filled with hope, awareness, and community spirit.”

Across Australia, similar events will be held at various locations, with the Geelong community invited to make the local event truly special.

Your participation helps provide lifelong support, advocacy, and care for thousands of Australians impacted by CoHD. To register, donate, or sponsor a walker, head to twofeetheartbeat.org.au

//SPONSORED CONTENT