Region to run for the Reef

BENDIGO is one of four Victorian cities taking part in a simultaneous running event raising funds to help protect the Great Barrier Reef.

On Sunday, 16 October, 21 locations across Australia and New Zealand, including Ballarat, Geelong, Melbourne and Bendigo, will take part in the run4reef event, uniting over 100,000 runners across one, five and 10-kilometre runs who will all start at the same time.

Event manager Ginevra Johnson said the initiative started with the Port Douglas marathon and grew as more towns wanted to take part.

She said the event is directed by Olympian Steve Moneghetti and the local run will take place through central Bendigo. Participants will be able to time themselves against other runners.

“We’ll have a big screen so you can see how you’re tracking, there’ll be music and lots of runners of all different speeds and skill, all for a really good cause,” she said.

Proceeds from the event go to the Great Barrier Reef Foundation and WWF Australia, providing funds for restoration programs and research.

“It’s not just about the Great Barrier Reef, it’s the broader issue of climate change,” Ms Johnson said.

“A lot of people in the region know there’s an issue… sometimes these issues seem overwhelming so here we have Bendigo being able to provide a terrific opportunity to do something really proactive.”

Bendigo High School student, Ella Flavell, 17, said she’s excited to see an opportunity to aid in the fight against climate change in her region.

“I’m a big advocate for climate change, I really believe as a young person in this generation it’s one of the most important things,” she said.

“I think it’s amazing how many young kids are part of this event. It shows how much power we have to make change and how we can contribute.”