Community run for a community cause

More than 1,200 runners and walkers are expected to participate in the Flying Brick Bellarine Sunset Run this February to speak out against bullying.

Entering its fifth year, the event will again raise money for the Bellarine Community Health Youth Service Team which provides a suite of confidential health services for young people aged 12-25.

Event manager Dion Milne said the fun run hoped to increase the Active Feet Half Marathon to 500 people, while maintaining at least 650 participants in the Port Phillip Ferries 10km event.

“As a local, family organised event, we are all about the vibe we’ve created over the past four years.

“We will continue to work closely with Lyndsay Sharp at Flying Brick and make sure the Bellarine Peninsula continues to be the showcase. We live here and we are proud of our community.”

Spectators will line the trail between Portarlington and St Leonards to catch a glimpse of thousands of quick-footed competitors in a massive conga like line.

The Walk 4 Headspace event has been rebranded to the Bully Buster 4km and will see $20 of every $30 registration diverted to the Bellarine Community Health Youth Services Team.

Under 12s can register in the Bully Buster at no cost. Mr Milne said the rebrand was inspired by a shared vision to tackle bullying head on.

“Together with our daughters we decided to tackle bullying.

“We are hoping, along with the local schools, we can further highlight that bullying is never okay and there are people you can talk to.

“Exercising with your children does tend to open up conversations you wouldn’t usually have at home, so we are encouraging families to get out together.”

In its short history, the Flying Brick Bellarine Sunset Run has raised more than $19,000.

For more information or to register, head to bellarinesunsetrun.com or follow bellarinesunsetrun.com.