Words by Jodie Powell
What started as a small running event organised by a group of friends to raise money for the Redcliffe Hospital Auxiliary now attracts more than 150 participants.
Redcliffe Hospital facility services co-ordinator Rhonda Neal says the third annual REDDY Fun Run/Walk will continue its tradition of supporting the Auxiliary’s work.
She’s working with hospital physiotherapist Matt Reed, Redcliffe State High School teacher Roanna White and Redcliffe Hospital workforce development officer Brooke Starkey-Luke to deliver the 2022 event on June 19.
Humble beginnings
“Two years ago, a few of us crazy ladies that live, exercise and enjoy the Peninsula were training for the Gold Coast Marathon - it was cancelled due to COVID, so we thought we would still run the 21km and donate our entry fees to the Redcliffe Hospital,” Rhonda says.
“We asked a few friends to join us, word got out, so without too much effort we raised $4500.
“Last year with a bit more effort and a few local businesses on board, the Moreton Bay Road Runners, family, friends, hospital staff and members of the community joined the REDDY Fun Run/Walk on a brisk winter’s morning to raise an amazing $13,500 for the hospital.”
Money well spent
Rhonda says $1500 from the 2020 event and all the money from last year – which the Auxiliary matched – have been used to create a bereavement room in the hospital’s maternity ward.
When it’s completed, the room will be a dedicated private space for women and families experiencing the loss of their babies.
Matt says the event is a great way to connect with the community.
“It’s a beautiful course for a great cause,” he says.
Donate to enter
Rhonda says the REDDY Fun Run/Walk, which follows the same route as Jetty2Jetty, has given an important boost to the Auxiliary’s fundraising efforts, which have been severely curtailed by COVID-19 restrictions.
“Entry is free, but people have to make a donation – and if you don’t want to participate you can just donate.”
Business support
The local business community has thrown its support behind the event, donating prizes for a raffle to be drawn on the day, fruit and water, as well as bread and onions for the sausage sizzle.
Among the supporters are Adiel Karmona from Tom’s Confectionary, Sam Major from Cornerstone Funerals, Fitness Hub Redcliffe, IGA Redcliffe, Coles at Dolphins Central, The Komo, The Sebel, REGIS Aged Care, Betta Electrical Redcliffe and Tom’s Law Personal Training.
Participants can choose from a 21km run, 10km run or walk or the 5km run or walk and there are prizes for best dressed.
To donate and register click here.
Read more local news here.
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