A GROUP of passionate fitness and community-minded individuals have come together to launch parkrun in Bli Bli – the popular weekly event is held at many locations across the country, with each parkrun a free social run where participants can either run or walk the set 5km course.

Parkrun is all about connection, community, keeping fit and being socially and physically active.

However, there is one hurdle organisers must get over first, and that is the initial start-up cost, which is $8,600 – the cost is to cover essential equipment such as safety gear, signage and other setup costs.

The community is rallying behind the initiative, and a fundraising bootcamp and after party will be run on Saturday, December 6, from 2.30 pm at Bli Bli United Football Club.

The event, organised by Mark Cowie from Jetts Gym Bli Bli, will kick off with a high-energy bootcamp session, followed by food, drinks, and fun at the club, and all proceeds raised will go towards helping Bli Bli secure its own parkrun.

Many local residents have been willing to help out and get behind the project, with Michael Lassman stating the support so far had been inspiring.

“Parkrun is all about bringing people together — runners, walkers, families, and volunteers. It’s amazing to see our community stepping up to help make this dream a reality for Bli Bli.”

Real Estate agent Cameron Hackenberg furthered these statements of support.

“This is about more than fitness, it’s about pride in our community, and parkrun will put Bli Bli on the map as a healthy, active, and welcoming place to live.”

The Bli Bli parkrun Fundraiser Bootcamp will be held at the Bli Bli Soccer Oval on Saturday, December 6, from 2 – 4 pm, with the after-party following at The Local at Parklakes from 4 pm.

Everyone is invited, and you can either join in the bootcamp or simply watch or just attend the party.

Tickets for the bootcamp are by donation via Eventbrite at www.eventbrite.com.au and searching for ‘Bli Bli parkrun’.