Hundreds of people will get their Australia Day off to a healthy start with free fun runs starting at Gisborne’s Sankey Reserve and Romsey’s Lions Park.
They’re just two of the many events being held across the Macedon Ranges to mark the national day on Tuesday, January 26.
Macedon Ranges Running Club spokesman Lindsay Sharpe is expecting up to 300 entries for the Gisborne run, which will wind through the town’s parklands.
‘‘It’s a great chance to get out there in the sunshine and enjoy some of the beauty that’s right on our doorstep,’’ he says.
‘‘It’s not a competitive event … there’s no timing. People can just run or walk, and bring the family.’’
The Romsey run will cover a five-kilometre trail to Lancefield. Registration for both runs is from 7.30am for an 8am start.
Celebrations in Gisborne will include a flag pageant, music, games, a trivia quiz, and brunch from 9-11.30am at John Aitken Reserve.
Community breakfasts will be held at Kyneton Mechanics Institute Reserve and Tylden Hall from 8am, while the council’s Australia Day awards and citizenship ceremony are at Kyneton town hall from 10.30am.
Australian food and music will be part of celebrations at Malmsbury town hall from 11am-2pm.
Woodend festivities include a parade and community barbecue at the RSL from 10.30am-3.30pm.
Baynton residents can wrap up their public holiday with a film night under the stars from 6-10.
There’ll also be free entry, family activities and giveaways at the municipality’s outdoor pools in Woodend and Lancefield.
Details: www.mrsc.vic.gov.au/australiaday
