Hitting the New Year running

MORE than 550 participants welcomed the final sunrise of 2025 while taking part in the 34th Dawnbuster Fun Run.

The annual community event raised more than $9,000 for the Give Where You Live Foundation (GWYLF), supporting its work to build a fairer and more equitable community.

Funds raised will contribute to programs focused on food security, homelessness assistance and inclusive employment.

GWYLF event manager, Jo Wealands, said the 5km run along the Geelong waterfront was a positive way to mark the start of the New Year.

“575 people joined us this year, which was 100 more runners than the previous year enjoying the scenic waterfront course,” she said.

“It was the perfect morning for a 5km run and was great to see the community join together to support the foundation.”

Geelong Cross Country Club president, Kevin McNulty, said the club was proud to once again co-organise the longstanding event.

“For 34 years, the Geelong Cross Country Club has partnered with the Give Where You Live Foundation to hold the Dawnbuster Fun Run,”he said.

“We’re very proud that this year’s event raised $9,000 to give back to the community. There was a real atmosphere of celebration.”

Ben Stevens and Nikki Curry were the first male and female participants over the line, recording times of 16:00 and 18:22 respectively.