A region-first sporting event that celebrated the International Day of People with Disability has distributed funds raised to community groups that made the Avon A Go Fun Run and Colour Blast possible.
Last year's inclusive and collaborative event saw the amalgamation of the already existing Northam Rotary Avon A Go Fun Run and PCYC Colour Blast to create an all inclusive morning of exercise and colour.
With help from APM Communities and the Fresh Start Recovery Program, the event raised much needed funds for the groups involved.
Although raising funds was not the focus, Northam Rotary representative Christine Storer said the money raised through registration fees would help Northam PCYC and the Fresh Start Recovery Program continue their work in the community.
APM Communities officer said Katie Leeder said the 5km fun run and subsequent colour run saw more than 140 locals come together and the benefits of inclusivity could not be underestimated.
"Prosperous regional towns host these sorts of events that are welcoming for everyone and it gives residents an opportunity to mix with and understand people they wouldn't ordinarily interact with," she said.
"It improves the cohesion of our community which then will attract professionals and families to our communities, and access to services improves in these areas.
"I truly believe a community led approach to this is how we can achieve that. Avon A Go fun run is a great example of that."
Plans are already in place to hold the event again in 2020, with provisions in place to continue to make the 5km more accessible for people of all abilities.
Event organisers thanked fun run volunteers Christian Dobbie and Makalia Scott, Avon A Go course marshals Joe, Bjorn, Mitchell, Nathan, Clint, Robert, Bradley, David and Todd and fun run startline pre-race warm up staff Carley and Daniel.
They also thanked event management and volunteers from Northam Rotary, PCYC, Fresh Start, Chamber of Commerce, APM Communities and In Balance Physio and Fitness.
Labour, resources and prizes were provided by the Shire of Northam, Northam Rapid Relief Team, Lions Club, Shane Smith Contracting, Clackline Fencing, Northam Indoor Bowls Club, the Department of Sport and Recreation, Cadds Northam, Sportspower Northam and El Muelos Coffee Van.
Did you attend the event? What did you think? Send a letter to eliza.wynn@avonadvocate.com.au.
