Children of all ages braced the chilly and wet weather in support of sick children in need on Sunday 26 November as part of the Rotary Club of Emerald and District’s Kids Fun Run with Puffing Billy Raceway, which saw hundreds of children race against the historic steam train.
Organising committee member John Henderson said while there was some wet weather around, the rain held off for the races.
“It didn’t dampen the sprits,” he said.
“All the runs went well.”
The team raised about $45,000 towards Monash Children’s Cancer Research Centre as part of the Monash Children’s Hospital.
Children between three and 12 raced against Puffing Billy from the Gembrook station in races from 150 metres to 1.2 kilometres, with each participant receiving a certificate and a showbag packed with goodies from local businesses.
Ella and Taj were the winners of the Purple Run, while Charlotte and Oliver soared home to win the Orange Run.
The Blue Run winners were Zara and Connor, with Phoebe and Pratham taking out the Yellow Run.
Etta and Parker were the winners of the Red Run, with the Green Run won by Isla and Chase.
Mr Henderson said they were grateful for the support of the local community and their sponsors.
“We’re obviously very grateful to all the families and the 100 volunteers from Emerald Rotary,” he said.
“It’s good that we can raise money for such a good cause.”
