By RUSSELL BENNETT
ONE of the hills’ most successful fundraisers is back again, with the Rotary Club of Emerald and District’s ‘Kids Fun Run with Thomas’ returning to Gembrook this Sunday.
This year marks the 12th annual running of the event, which has so far raised more than $250,000 to benefit children in the local community.
Between 400 and 600 runners between the ages of three and 12 take part each year in a race against one of their biggest childhood icons – the world famous Thomas the Tank Engine – along the Puffing Billy railway track into the Gembrook station.
The great all-around family day out also includes a jumping castle, showbags and all the fun and frivolity of the Gembrook market.
The event just seems to get bigger and better every year, and this year promises to be no exception.
The proceeds of this year’s run will go to the paediatric ward at the Angliss Hospital, thanks to Emerald Rotary’s partnership in the event with Puffing Billy Railway and a host of other local businesses.
To join in the fun, visit www.kidsfunrunwiththomas.org.au or search for Kids Fun Run with Thomas on Facebook.
The entry cost of $15 per child includes a certificate with a run number. Online entries are open until Saturday, while entrants can also register at the event on Sunday morning.
There will be six separate fun runs throughout the day, with the three-year-olds racing from 10am and the nine to 12-year-olds from 12.50pm.
