The rise of run clubs has led to a surprising new holiday trend

Think taking a holiday means hanging up your trainers? Think again.

With run clubs continuing to pop up across Australia, as more and more folks fall in love with community running, there’s a growing breed of traveller scouring the country for new finish lines to cross.

No longer content with covering kilometres at home, runners are teaming up getaways with race days for holidays with a twist. And maybe, just maybe, an ultimate PB.

Coogee Run Club Members at the Melbourne Marathon — Coogee Run Club members are chasing that runner’s high around the country. (Image: supplied)

Which was exactly the case for plenty of runners from the Coogee Run Club , one of Sydney’s most popular groups, who jumped states to take on the Gold Coast Marathon in July. As the club’s co-founder, I was ecstatic that we had more than 40 runners on course, which is renowned as being the flattest and fastest in Australia.

Since we launched in 2022, I’ve witnessed firsthand the rapid rise of runners and race registrations as Aussies chase new challenges. And while local events have always been huge draw cards, now it’s travelling for a race that really gets heart rates pumping.

So, without further ado, here are all the reasons why you should make your next marathon one you have to leave home for.

The Coogee Run Club runners who took part in the Gold Coast Marathon. (Image: supplied)

You get the chance to visit somewhere new

Forgo your well trodden routes for a race on foreign lands and you’ll find yourself on a whole new adventure.

“For me, it’s the opportunity and excuse to visit somewhere new," one of my Run Leads, Ella, tells me, adding that it took doing a marathon to get her to Melbourne. “It combines two of my favourite things – travelling and running."

walking along Melbourne’s vibrant laneways filled with graffiti art on the walls — Get lost in Melbourne’s vibrant laneways filled with graffiti. (Image: Visit Victoria)

You get to see a side of the destination you’d not otherwise see

This is your chance to avoid the tourist traps and get a local’s view into the real beating heart of your host city in a super unique style.

“My favourite way to explore a new city is to run it, and what better way than to run 42.2 kilometres around a new place," explains Ella.

“It’s the best way to see a city," Coogee runner Grace adds. “And as it’s so difficult, you are extremely alive and aware of what’s going on around you as you run, so you take it all in – the scents, the sounds, the people next to you, and the people on the sidelines."

aerial view of surfer's paradise gold coast — Explore the famous Surfer’s Paradise. (Image: Destination Gold Coast)

You get to bring your fitness on holiday with you

Ever book a trip and then freak out that you’re going to lose all those hard-earned gainz with a few weeks off the gym and drinking cocktails by the pool?

Running a marathon while on holiday means you’ll keep up your fitness while away, plus you get to fuel up on all those carbs and calories before burning them off.

Woman running in the city — Fitness and holidays can go together. (Image: Getty)

You get to bond better with your run club friends

From catching flights to crashing in Airbnbs as a group, running a marathon out of town brings runners together through shared experiences and many hours spent hanging out.

When new to the Coogee Run Club, Talen jumped at the chance to run the Gold Coast Marathon and the opportunity to get to know our members a bit more. “I had a blast exploring a new city whilst continuing to meet Coogee runners for the first time," he says.

Coogee Run Club runners at theGold Coast Marathon — Running and travelling together solidifies friendships. (image: supplied)

You get warmly welcomed by your hosts

Maybe you’ve travelled somewhere new, not known a soul, and spent the weekend feeling invisible. Not for marathoners with thousands of running fans on the sidelines cheering participants on.

“You feel kind of welcomed by the city you’re visiting," Coogee Run Club’s Jake tells me, having raced the New York City marathon in 2023, before taking on the Gold Coast event this year. Hooked on marathon holidays, he’s also prepping for the Queenstown race in the middle of November.

Woman running in the Mooloolaba Triathlon on the Sunshine Coast — The atmosphere around a running or triathlon festival is electric. (Image: Tourism & Events Queensland)

You get a holiday out of a marathon

Not that you ever need an excuse to take a trip, but choosing to run 42.2 kilometres is certainly a good one.

Andy from the Coogee Run Club says he signed up for the Gold Coast to “have a holiday with a great group of people". “Having previously done the Queenstown Marathon with the Coogee crew, I was keen to do it [another marathon outside Sydney] again," he explains.

Runner Paul was also eager to make a short holiday out of the Queensland event. “Especially when it’s in such a great holiday destination," he says. “It’s similar to attending a festival but with the rewarding feeling of completing a race and a new achievement."

beachside dining at Burleigh Pavilion — Dine by the beach at Burleigh Pavilion post-marathon.

You get to do things you can’t do at home

A huge element of the Gold Coast Marathon is that the running festival also includes a half marathon the day before, and gives out an extra accolade for those who take on both races.

“It was the fact that they offered the half and full marathon option with the third medal that encouraged me," Simon, a Run Lead at the Coogee Run Club, explains. “I also loved how many Coogee members showed up for each other and that there was support on the sidelines on both days, with good camaraderie and spirit throughout the weekend. When you take the familiarity of a place away, but still have the familiarity of the people, it feels like a home away from home."

While the event’s lack of elevation draws plenty of others in. “It was a flat course next to a beach – being an expat, that’s all you really want from an Australian marathon," UK runner Rowan says. “I wanted to try my first marathon and was told that it was a flat and easy course, and the best race for newbies," adds Xiaona.

You get the chance to set a new PB

Did we mention that the Gold Coast Marathon is flat? Meaning the race boasts huge potential for participants to put their fitness to the test and pick up a personal best.

You get to bring home the best souvenir

Alongside a stellar result on Strava that’ll rack up plenty of kudos, you’ll also return with a new gong.

“And a medal is a lot cooler to bring back than a snow globe," Jake says.

Coogee Run Club runners at the Gold Coast Marathon with their third medal for completing the half and full marathon. (Image: supplied)

A world away from the hustle, bustle and chaos of the big smoke – yet with a distinct sense of familiarity – Victoria’s Wimmera Mallee region is an incomparable place.

Victoria’s Grampians are a visual feast, a seemingly endless vista of craggy cliffs, rolling valleys and untamed bushland. But they’re also much more than a scenic mountain landscape. Diverse and storied, each region within the range has its own rhythm. The Wimmera Mallee – a pocket in the state’s north-west, stretching from Horsham to near Mildura – is one of the most captivating.

Once known as Victoria’s agricultural heartland, the Wimmera Mallee has evolved in recent years into a dynamic, slightly offbeat hub. It buzzes with a creative hum and welcoming energy, and harbours an eclectic mix of long-time locals and tree-changers. Once you encounter its unmistakable charm, feel its warm country hospitality and taste its nationally celebrated vanilla slice, you may find yourself lingering longer than planned.

Eager to explore? These must-visit spots let you experience the inimitable spirit of this special part of the world.

Wimmera Mallee’s quirky attractions

The Dimboola Imaginarium, Wimmera Mallee victoria — Step into the whacky Dimboola Imaginarium. (Image: Denis Bin)

If you’re after something a little more unconventional, the Wimmera Mallee delivers in droves.

The Dimboola Imaginarium – located in a historic bank building in its namesake town – is a gift shop and boutique accommodation in one. Shop for unique and whimsical keepsakes, stay overnight in an elegant themed room, and lose yourself in one of the Imaginarium’s interactive experiences.

Also in Dimboola, just a short drive from the Imaginarium, is a menagerie of utter delight. Tiny Goats and Co. is home to a herd of miniature goats, with the farm offering group visits and special events like goat yoga and cuddle sessions.

Arcade aficionados should visit the Australian Pinball Museum in nearby Nhill. Here, you’ll find the biggest selection of playable pinball machines in the country, featuring modern models and classics dating all the way back to 1931.

Arts and culture in Wimmera Mallee

Step into the Wimmera Mallee’s storied history at the Stick Shed — Step into history at the Stick Shed. (Image: Visit Vic)

As a thoroughly creative community, it’s no wonder the Wimmera Mallee has a host of venues focused on its rich arts and culture scene.

Wander Trickbots Metal Art & Sculpture Garden in Nullawil, a winding trail filled with unique and quirky creations fashioned from metal odds, ends and scrap. A walk through the garden is inspiring enough, but consider buying a piece to take home and treasure.

The town of Nhill also has a significant Karen-Burmese refugee community, who make up 10 per cent of the local population. Discover the artistry of this vibrant culture at Paw Po , where you can purchase traditional hand-woven and textile products. Choose from a selection of beautifully crafted homewares, fashion and dolls.

Step into the Wimmera Mallee’s storied history at the Stick Shed , the only WWII emergency grain store still standing today. This National Heritage-listed structure takes you on a journey through the region’s agricultural past and is a dramatic sight with its towering and eerily striking timber poles.

Nature escapes around Wimmera Mallee

pink Lake Tyrrel, Wimmera Mallee, Victoria Australia — Take in the pink hues of Lake Tyrrell. (Image: Visit Vic)

Much like the majestic beauty of the wider Grampians, the Wimmera Mallee is a mélange of serene and spellbinding nature escapes.

Victoria’s pink lakes are famed nationwide, and two of them are found right here. See the flamingo-pink hues of Loch Iel, particularly vivid after a heavy downpour, or the vast and ancient Lake Tyrrell , which turns pink during wet and warm conditions.

The Snowdrift dunes in Wyperfeld National Park are ideal for adventurers. Set amid the area’s semi-arid landscape, the dunes are expansive mounds of sand deposited around 40,000 years ago. Hike or sandboard them and make sure to visit at sunset, when the sand glows golden.

And while some travellers chase the highest peaks, you can see the most modest in the Wimmera Mallee. Standing a mere 43 metres above the surrounding terrain, Mount Wycheproof is considered the smallest registered mountain in the world. Courtesy of its relatively gentle inclines, it’s a lovely spot for a walk and a picnic.

Culinary adventures in Wimmera Mallee

border inn in the Wimmera Mallee — Meet the locals at Border Inn.

As a region rich in agricultural bounty, it’s little surprise the Wimmera Mallee has such a robust and vibrant food scene. The community is fiercely proud of its local produce, showcasing the flavours and heritage of the area.

The Border Inn in the village of Apsley is a quaint country pub and meeting spot for the local community, featuring a classic country menu and warm hospitality.

The Horsham Golf Club is a popular spot for golf buffs with an adjoining bistro and bar. Try a modern twist on hearty favourites while taking in views of the green. For a taste of the area’s vintages, head to Norton Estate Wines – a boutique wine producer and cellar door open weekends.

A Wimmera Mallee jaunt wouldn’t be complete without a visit to the famed Sharp’s Bakery in Birchip. Here, you’ll find a velvety vanilla slice that’s been crowned as Australia’s best seven times.

Wimmera Mallee accommodation

Fulham Homestead in wimmera mallee — Escape to Fulham Homestead.

If you’re enjoying an extended trip, you’ll need somewhere to rest. After a day tackling Wyperfeld’s epic dunes, visit Pine Plains Lodge , also in the national park. Built from reclaimed timber planks and logs, and anchored by rugged stone fireplaces, the lodge is a rustic and cosy hideaway.

For a refined yet relaxing escape, head to Fulham Homestead – a gorgeously restored guesthouse on an idyllic working farm, complete with farm animals and scenic vistas. Built in the 1840s, it has all the elegance and charm of its heritage, plus contemporary comforts like a modern kitchen, wi-fi and air-conditioning.

The Hermitage Hotel is Victoria’s oldest inland pub and an equally delightful blend of old and new. The restored rooms are perfectly appointed and adorned with period furnishings and high-quality linens. The pub itself is a favoured food and wine spot among locals and travellers alike.

If camping is more your style, the Lake Lascelles Cabins and Camping (formerly Mallee Bush Retreat) is a sprawling oasis with powered and unpowered sites and snug cabins. The setting is stunning too, the pristine Lake Lascelles sitting right in its centre.

Annual events

Wimmera Mallee Nhill Aviation Museum — Time your visit to Nhill Aviation Museum for the annual air show.

You may not need an excuse to revisit the Wimmera Mallee, but these annual and bi-annual events will almost certainly have you returning again and again.

Each year, the Lake Chalegrark Country Music Marathon takes over the town for a spectacular line-up of musicians from around Australia. The event is easygoing, family-friendly, and set in scenic surrounds on the shores of Lake Charlegrark.

Every two years, the region holds colourful events like the Wimmera Steampunk Festival , a raucous celebration of 19th-century steampunk culture with a different theme each time; the Nhill Air Show , which features jaw-dropping aerial stunts, aircraft displays, music, activities and more; and the Nati Frinj , a festival of art, culture and performance showcasing the many talents of the Natimuk community.

From the quirky to the tasty, start planning at visitwimmeramallee.com.au

The rise of run clubs has inspired a surprising new holiday trend