McIvor Creek Trail parkrun is off and running

AFTER two years of planning, the McIvor Creek Trail parkrun in Heathcote was officially launched last Saturday.

The event was delayed due to weather events the previous weekend but despite a chilly morning, community members and visitors turned out to embrace the concept.

Runners, joggers, walkers and volunteers met beside the entrance to the Heathcote swimming pool where Aunty Jo, from the Taungurung Land and Waters Council, welcomed participants to Country and performed a smoking ceremony.

 

Event director Roy Munro thanked participants and volunteers.

“I’m so excited,” he said. “It’s finally happening.

“It has been worth all the work getting it organised and we will continue to build from here.”

Heathcote Health partnered with parkrun Australia, Healthy Loddon Campaspe and La Trobe University Bendigo to organise the event.

 

After Heathcote residents expressed interest in creating a parkrun for the town, the idea was explored and developed through a project undertaken by La Trobe University occupational therapy students Josh Christensen, Ben Williams and James Saliba.

Their work found potential health, wellbeing and community benefits that a local parkrun could bring.

Heathcote Health and Healthy Loddon Campaspe brought together partners and resources to help turn the idea into reality.

 

“Initiatives like parkrun make it easier for people of all ages and abilities to be active, connect with others, and enjoy the benefits of our local environments,” said Healthy Loddon Campaspe active and healthy communities manager Amy Johnston.

“This is a fantastic example of how accessible, community-led opportunities can support healthier, more connected communities.”

Michelle Chapman from Heathcote Health said parkrun was a team effort.

 

“McIvor Creek Trail parkrun, Heathcote was made possible by an incredible team of local volunteers, supported by generous mentors from neighbouring parkruns and experienced parkrun ambassadors who have shared their knowledge, encouragement and guidance throughout the journey,” she said.

“Along the way, many others have played an important role, from community organisations, local businesses and land managers, to participants, walkers, runners, volunteers, spectators and supporters.

“Every conversation, every helping hand and every act of encouragement has contributed to where we are today.

 

“McIvor Creek Trail parkrun, Heathcote is not the achievement of any one individual or organisation.

“It is a true community collaboration, built on a shared vision, strengthened through partnerships, and sustained by the generosity, passion and commitment of many people working towards a common goal.

“That is what makes it so special. It is, and always will be, a genuine team effort.”

To find out more visit facebook.com/mcivorcreektrailparkrunheathcote