Two annual Northam events have joined forces for 2019 to encourage community cohesion and inclusion for people of all abilities.
The Northam Rotary Avon A Go Fun Run and PCYC Colour Blast have amalgamated this year, with help from APM Communities and Fresh Start Recovery Program to create an event aligned with the International Day of People with Disability.
APM Communities officer Katie Leeder said the event, around the two main bridges over the Avon River, was a chance to create a stronger local community.
"We looked at the Avon A Go Fund Run and the Colour Blast and wondered what we could do to support these events in being inclusive of all abilities and all ages," she said.
"We have joined the events to support economic participation - now there is one registration fee and two events.
"There is also a change of course for the fun run - last year it was on Jubilee Oval so it was hard for some people to access on the grass.
"We are up on the footpath this year which gives greater access to people and is supported by local businesses who have given the event priority parking.
"It's been proven that the most prosperous regional towns host these community cohesion events, so when we looked at Northam it is a great place to live and are already very accepting of people with different abilities.
"For us to put on this event to encourage further community cohesion is a really great thing."
The event, to be held on Saturday, November 2, will include a 5km fun run with three different divisions followed by the colour blast.
Northam Rotary secretary Christine Storer said the event cohesion would reach a larger demographic of the community.
"I love the new venue because it is in the heart of Northam and celebrating the community and river," she said.
"I love the fact that it is all-inclusive - even if you aren't a runner we are encouraging people with prams, wheelchairs, bikes and scooters to get involved and come down.
"The community cruise is designed for the whole community to get involved in the community.
"We have an event that is for everyone - families and workplaces.
"In those groups not everyone can do the same things but this is an event everyone can get involved in."
Northam PCYC centre manager Jane Atterby said all funds raised through registrations fees would return to the community through the work of Rotary and PCYC.
Early-bird registrations are open through Try Booking under Avon A Go with a $5 discount on tickets.
Full price tickets are $25 for adults, $15 for kids and children under two are free.
Event packs, that include a t-shirt and hat can be picked up from Northam PCYC or on the day at the registration tent.
For more information contact Northam PCYC 9622 2220 or Katie Leeder 0417 993 178.
