Burdekin locals are being called on to get active for a cause that hits close to home, with the nationwide Run Army event returning in March and April next year. The annual fitness initiative unites communities across Queensland while raising vital funds for charities supporting first responders, including the Queensland Police Service (QPS) and the Australian Defence Force.
For the QPS, the event provides an opportunity to support Queensland Police Legacy (QPL), a not-for-profit organisation dedicated to assisting families of officers who have lost their lives or are suffering a terminal illness. Since its inception in 1971, QPL has provided crucial financial and social support to hundreds of families in times of need.
Townsville will host the Run Army on Sunday, the 19th of April, offering participants the choice of 2.4km, 5km, or 10km walking, running, or virtual events. The initiative is designed not only to fundraise but also to promote resilience, mental health, and community engagement through physical activity.
Among those gearing up for the Townsville 5km track is Railway Squad member and avid runner, Senior Constable Julie Ryan, who will take part for the first time.
“The idea of taking part in a running event with other frontline service members, while promoting mental health and fundraising for a good cause such as Police Legacy, makes Run Army something I am excited to be involved with,” Senior Constable Ryan said.
A former two-time Australian amateur boxing champion, Senior Constable Ryan turned to running after retiring from the sport in 2012. She has since amassed 20 medals at the Australasian Police and Emergency Services Games, competing in cross country, track, trail, and road running events, and has participated in international events including the London and Berlin marathons.
“Physical exercise like running is great for our mental health. Being in frontline operations, you see a lot of traumatic events, so I use running to clear my head and to run off any stress,” she said.
Senior Constable Ryan also highlights the camaraderie that makes Run Army special.
“Events like Run Army provide a unique opportunity for us as officers to not only connect with fellow community members in a completely different setting, but also with our fellow frontline service workers,” she said.
Registrations for the Run Army are now open. Burdekin residents can support QPL while taking part in a meaningful community event. For more information, visit https://runarmy.org.au/.
Among those gearing up for the Townsville 5km track is Railway Squad member and avid runner, Senior Constable Julie Ryan, who has amassed 20 medals at the Australasian Police and Emergency Services Games, competing in cross country, track, trail, and road running events. Photo credit: QPS
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