Something Active

Want to give back but need some inspiration? Set yourself an active challenge and ask people to pledge their support with a donation to UN Women. 

PHOTO: United Nations / David Given

SET A CHALLENGE

Is there something you've always wanted to achieve? Maybe do 200 pushups a week for a year or maybe you want to climb Mt Fuji. Look the challenge in the face, believe in yourself and finally commit to doing it! 

As motivation, ask your friends, family and colleagues to sponsor you. Usually the harder the challenge, the more support you'll
drum up.

HOST A SPORTING EVENT

Ready for some healthy competition?

Speak to your local golf club about doing a golf day and consider inviting clients to join in the fun. Look at organising a tennis social, a slam-dunk competition or make up your very own Amazing Race! 

Fundraise by asking everyone to make a donation to take part in this fun-filled day.

JOIN AN EVENT

Are you a runner at heart? We are lucky enough to live in a country with a never-ending list of marathons, fun runs and walks that take place in some of our major capital cities and regional areas.

We've put together a list of top running events that you are able to sign up for and choose to fundraise for UN Women Australia. Scroll down to see the list below. 

Running Events in Australia

New South Wales

14k

City2Surf 
August 2026

Is there any better excuse to get together with a mate or two than at Voltaren City2Surf? Dust off your favourite dress-up or throw on your fave fitness getup, and run, jog, or walk your way to Bondi.  

3k, 6k, 14k, Half 

Beach2Beach 
August 2026

Feel the vibe, embrace the community spirit, and soak in the breathtaking scenery as you glide toward your personal best. It’s more than a run – it’s an experience like no other!

5k

TCS Sydney Mini Marathon 
August 2026

One City. One Morning. One run anyone can be part of. Just 5km through the heart of the city with thousands of others showing up for the same reason: to be part of it.

42k

TCS Sydney Marathon 
August 2026

The TCS Sydney Marathon presented by ASICS is the newest Abbott World Marathon Major and it’s waiting for you. Whether you’re chasing your first star or your seventh, Sydney is the bucket-list race that defines greatness.

15k

Fernleigh 15 
October 2026

Run, walk or roll the iconic Fernleigh Track and soak up the beauty of this former rail line – now a beloved running and riding route through Newcastle and Lake Macquarie.

3k, 6k, 14k, Half 

BBB Run
October 2026

Raise awareness for Frame Running and empower  individuals with mobility challenges by providing them with specially designed running frames so they can experience the joy of movement alongside their fellow runners.

Swim 1.5k, Bike 37k, Run 10k

Callala Beach Triatholon 
December 2026

The IGA Callala Triathlon Festival is much loved traithlon set on the northern shores of Jervis Bay. The festival features the popular distances Standard, Sprint and Super Sprint plus an Aquabike event (Swim, Bike only - Standard Distance) and TriKidz events, ensuring there is something for all ages and abilities.

7k, 10k

Sun Run
February 2027

 Challenge yourself over a 7km or 10km distance along the picturesque coast from Dee Why to Manly Beach. Whether you are an elite athlete, causal jogger or just out to have fun and keep healthy and active there is something for everyone across the weekend.

2k, 6k, 12k

Hill to Harbour 
April 2027

Hill to Harbour has something for everyone. Enjoy Newcastle’s stunning coastline, incredible community support and famous finish line atmosphere as you take on one of the region’s favourite events.

Half and Full

Henderson Newcastle 
April 2027

Starting and finishing at The Station Newcastle, the event features a flat, fast and scenic Marathon and Half Marathon through some of Newcastle’s most iconic coastal and harbour locations

35k, 55k, 65k, 90k, 120k, 170k 

Mudgee Classic 
May 2027

Experience the beauty of Mudgee's wine country on two wheels. The Mudgee Classic offers a weekend of road and gravel rides for cyclists of all abilities. With sweeping rural landscapes, rolling hills and country charm, this is the full cycling experience.

Half

Runaway Sydney
May 2027

 For a few amazing hours in perfect Autumn running conditions, the best of Sydney’s city streets are yours to enjoy. The Runaway Sydney Half Marathon is a truly unique city running experience through the beating heart of Sydney CBD.

1k, 11.5k, 22k, 51k, 101k, 161k

Ultra-Trail Australia 
May 2027

From 13-16 May 2027, the scenic and serene town of Katoomba in the heart of the stunning Blue Mountains, NSW, will once again welcome thousands of runners, spectators and support crew to HOKA Ultra-Trail Australia by UTMB (UTA).

2k, 5k, 10.5k, Half, Full

Winery Run
July 2026

Whether you’re chasing a goal race, building winter fitness or planning a fun weekend away with family and friends, Winery Run delivers an unforgettable day in the heart of the Hunter Valley

Queensland

2K, 5K, 10K, Half, Full  

Brisbane Marathon 
June 2026

From elite athletes chasing personal bests and Boston Marathon qualification, to first-time runners and walkers taking on a new challenge. With Brisbane’s beautiful winter sunshine and comfortable temperatures, there really is no better way to experience the city than on foot.

2K, 5K, 10K, Half 

Hervey Bay
June 2026

Join us for the inaugural Hervey Bay Half Marathon!
who are warmly welcoming visitors into our community. Whether you are here chasing a personal best, supporting friends and family, or simply soaking up the atmosphere, lace up, get involved, and enjoy a great day out.

Junior, Wheelchair, 5k, 10k, Half, Full

Gold Coast Marathon   
July 2026

The ASICS Gold Coast Marathon is a paradise for running with its flat, fast and scenic course located alongside the city’s renowned surf beaches and stunning Broadwater. Perfect if you’re aiming for a Boston Marathon qualification.

2k, 5k, 10k, Half, Full  

Cairns Marathon 
July 2026

The 7Cairns Marathon Festival is a unique event based in the heart of Tropical North Queensland. Race along the stunning Esplanade with community support and hospitality like no other. 

2k, 5k, 10k, Half, Full

Sunshine Coast Marathon 
August 2026

Located on the stunning Sunshine Coast, just an hour's drive north of Brisbane, this event is timed to make the most of the ideal Queensland winter running conditions.Each road race follows the stunning coastline of Alexandra Headland with white sandy beaches and spectacular vantage points alongside the ocean. 

2k, 5k, 10k, Half 

Run Port Douglas
September 2026

The Run Port Douglas courses will take you through the beautiful town of Port Douglas, with all distances finishing with a run/walk along the sands of Four Mile Beach. There is no other finish line like it anywhere in the world!

 5k, 10k

Bridge to Brisbane   
September 2026

Join thousands of runners, walkers, and wheelers as we take over the Gateway Bridge and streets of Brisbane for an unforgettable morning. The Transurban Bridge to Brisbane brings the community together for Brisbane’s most iconic fun run.

Kids dash, 5k, 10k, Half, 50k ultra  

GC50 Run the Coast 
October 2026

Experience an unforgettable weekend of running, entertainment and celebration in the beautiful Southern Gold Coast.

 2K, 5K, 10K, Half

Rocky River Run 
May 2027

A major sporting event for the Rockhampton Region, and a great tourist attraction. Rockhampton's favourite running event is a fun day out, all for health, wellbeing and community spirit. Come along and join in Rockhampton's largest running event.

2k, 5k, 10k, Half 

Runaway Noosa Marathon
May 2027

Escape to world famous Noosa for the ASICS Runaway Noosa Marathon and a weekend filled with sunshine and good times. With a flat, fast and friendly multi-lap course set in the heart of Noosa township and multi distances to choose from, it’s easy to find your happy running place right here.

 5k, 10k, Half, 30k

GC30 Run Main Beach  
May 2027

Set in the heart of Main Beach Spit, with the start and finish at Muriel Henchman Park, this event offers a race for everyone. Experience stunning courses that combine a mix of closed roads and leafy scenic trails, showcasing the very best of Main Beach and The Spit.

Victoria

 5.5k, 10k, Half

Run Melbourne 
July 2026

Whether you’re chasing a new PB, running for a cause close to your heart, or soaking up the energy of a city united by movement, ASICS Run Melbourne is more than just a race – it’s a celebration of passion, community, and the place we call home.

 5k, 10k, Half, Full

Brighton Beach Marathon 
August 2026

From personal bests to first-time finishes, the fast, fully closed roads of Beach Road set the scene for an unforgettable challenge. Soak up the electric atmosphere as you race along Melbourne’s breathtaking Bayside coastline. Cross the finish line to roaring cheers, collect your medal, and revel in the pride of smashing your goal!

6.5k, Half, Full

Geelong Running Festival 
September 2026

Run or walk around the streets of Geelong traffic free, pass through iconic Kardinia Park, and enjoy picturesque views of Corio Bay and the Eastern Beach foreshore. The Geelong Running Festival is a promotion of health, fitness, and participation, while celebrating Geelong’s rich history and iconic landmarks.

 1k kids run, 5k (walk and run), 10k

Run La Trobe 
September 2026

Run La Trobe brings the community together through movement across the La Trobe Sports Park precinct, with a scenic route connecting Sports Park, the Home of the Matildas, Darebin Parklands and Nangak Tamboree.

1k, 3k, 5k, 10k, Half, Full and Wheelchair 

Nike Melbourne Marathon 
October 2026

Be a part of Australia's premier marathon and race alongside marathon legends. Circle around Albert Park Lake, Flinders Street Station, pass the St Kilda beach foreshore and cross the finish line at the MCG to cheers from supporters, family and friends. The Nike Melbourne Marathon is a competitive, adrenaline-filled race for those experienced in marathon running who want to set a PB on our fast and flat course, and is also perfect for first-timers and less experienced marathon runners. 

1k Kids, 5k, 10k, 15k

 Frankston Running Festival 
November 2026


The course features a return format with the start and finish line located at the Frankston Waterfront (Frankston Pier), extending to Keast Park, Seaford, on Sunday 15 November 2026. Runners will enjoy the unique opportunity to race along a traffic-free section of the Nepean Highway, set against the stunning and unmistakable backdrop of Port Phillip Bay.

8k

Lorne Mountain to Surf 
January 2027

From the Lorne township on the Great Ocean Road, starting uphill through the Otway forest ranges to the St George River track which then winds its way following the river back to the wild Southern Ocean and returns to Lorne past the iconic Lorne Pier and cliff track to the Surf Life Saving Club. The Mountain to Surf is known for its friendly and relaxed atmosphere, and attracts runners and walkers of all ages and abilities, from seasoned competitors to recreational runners and walkers.

Teams Corporate Triatholon 
March 2027

Step out of the office and into a team challenge! Perfect for building teamwork, encouraging health, and giving your team something fun and new to experience.

Mile, 5k, 10k, Half, Full  

Ballarat Marathon  
April 2027

Revel in the highlights of beautiful Ballarat during this morning tour of the city, this course has it all: autumn colours, beautiful scenery and historic buildings over a distance that’s achievable for a range of fitness levels. Be inspired by the beauty of Australia’s best-preserved gold rush-era city. 

3.8k

Run the Tan 
April 2027

Run the iconic Tan Track and support mental health!
Join elite athletes, celebrities, emergency service workers and schools as they strive to get an 'official' time around the iconic Tan Track and raise funds and awareness for local mental health charities.

1k kids, 5k, 10k, Half 

Morrington Running Festival 
May 2027


Set in what is one of Australia's most stunning courses to run, winding along the esplanade from Mornington to
Mt Martha and back. This unique experience to run or walk along this road free from traffic is unmissable.
The weekend features a variety of running & walking events to suit all ages and fitness levels.

Full

Great Ocean Road Festival 
May 2027

From winding ocean views and fresh sea air to the unforgettable atmosphere of Apollo Bay, this is a running experience unlike anywhere else in Australia. Whether you’re chasing a personal best or tackling your first race, 2027 is shaping up to be another unforgettable celebration of running, community and adventure

ACT

Kids Dash, 5k, 10k, Half

The Canberra Times Fun Run 
November 2026

The Canberra Times Fun Run is back on 1 November 2026 - bringing determination, adrenaline, and inspiration to the streets of our capital. Take on a fast, flat course past iconic landmarks like the Old and New Parliament Houses in your choice of four distances. With pacers to guide you, it’s the perfect chance to hit a PB or complete your first race. Grab your mates, get training, and join over 5,000 runners chasing their goals.

7k, 12k, 24k, Half, Full 

Aussie Peace Walk 
March 2027

Experience two days of challenge, connection, and cross-cultural friendship.
Whether as a participant or a volunteer, get involved today! Click on a distance below for a quick overview of each event.

SA


3K, 6K, 12K, Half Marathon  

City-Bay Fun Run 
September 2026

Lace up, grab your crew, and be part of the city’s most iconic event

.5km, 10km, and a half 

McLaren Vale Running Festival
October 2026

Close out the Triple Vines Series in style at the McLaren Vale Running Festival! Set in one of SA’s most stunning wine regions, this event offers a marathon along the Shiraz Trail. It’s the perfect way to finish the series—run, wine, and unwind!

5k, 10k

Glenelg Classic
November 2026

A picturesque course leaving from Wigley Reserve, Glenelg, and heading north around Patawolonga Creek. SARRC’s last event for the year gives you a chance to record your PB.

TAS

10k (U18, Pram, A), Half  

Point to Pinnacle 
November 2026

The Elders Point to Pinnacle run and recreational walk starts at Wrest Point as it travels the route to the right turn onto Pillinger Drive and on to the pinnacle of Kunanyi /Mount Wellington. The race is physically challenging and scenically stunning.

78k

Cradle Mountain Run
February 2027

The Cradle Mountain Run is a one day traverse of Tasmania’s famous Cradle Mt to Lake St Clair Overland track. The beauty of this run is that it traverses wild alpine areas of Tasmania’s Cradle Mt Lake St Clair National Park and World Heritage Area. The event is a Run not a Race and mutual help is an important aspect.
5k, 10, Half, Full  
Hobart Marathon festival 
April 2027

The Hobart Marathon Festival is set along the spectacular Constitution Dock, Derwent River and Salamanca Wharves, runners and fans will be beguiled by the charming, contrasting blend of heritage, scenery and culture nestled amongst world- class attractions throughout the 2 lap course. With picturesque waterways, pristine bushland, rugged mountains, captivating history and a world- class gourmet & cultural scene, runners will be enamoured by all this great city has to offer.

WA

4k, 10k, Half, Full 

Perth Running Festival 
October 2026

Be a part of Australia's most beautiful run finishing at Optus Stadium, voted the world’s best looking stadium! With options for families, fitness enthusiasts and weekend warriors, the 2026 Perth Running Festival offers a challenge for everyone. Immerse yourself in the natural splendor of Burswood Park and the picturesque Swan River as you enjoy a beautiful, fast, marathon, with all events finishing inside the World’s most beautiful stadium. 

Donate to a Fundraiser

Do you know someone who is currently fundraising for
UN Women Australia? Show them some love
and make a donation to their fundraising page now. 

PHOTO: W Wild