FAQs 2025

Our event will be Covid Safe — we will be adhering to all protocols on the day, and you can read our current Covid Event plan here*

*Note this plan is subject to change.

Will I get a refund if the event is cancelled due to Covid?

Yes, refunds will be issued via Race Roster — however, you will lose your Booking Fee which is incorporated into the price of your ticket.

Will I get a refund if I pick up an injury while training for the run? 

No. This year, we have a strict cancellation policy in place. We are happy to refund you if your request is submitted before our early bird cut-off point—22 August 2025. We will not be able to issue refunds after this date. We understand that injuries happen, and it’s often very disappointing not to be able to attend an event. However, take some solace in knowing that all your entry fees will go to Dhelkaya Health.

The start* & finish line is at the Camp Reserve, Forest Street, Castlemaine.

* The half marathon starts from Maldon. Participants will leave Castlemaine station after a briefing at the Camp Reserve.

When do I get my bib?

Bibs for all races are collected on the day at the pre-registration marquee.

Can I register on the day?

Yes! We can process a limited number of registrations between 7:00 a.m. and 10:00 a.m. No registrations will be accepted after 8:00 a.m. for the half marathon, and we strongly recommend that you register online beforehand, as tickets are limited.

When does the early bird registration period end?

Early-bird event tickets are available until 11.59 pm Friday, 22nd August 2025.

Who can use the concession code during online registration?

The concession price is for full-time students, healthcare cardholders, and pension cardholders only. Your concession card number will be needed to apply your discount.

Is there a family discount?

No. We offer an under-15s ticket for the 5 km race only. However, any child under 10 or younger on race day may run for free, but will not be timed. If you wish for your child to be timed, they must pay the standard entry fee.

If I have registered for the 5 km or 10 km or 21 km event and want to participate in Run Bird Run, do I have to register for that event as well?

No. This year, entering the 5, 10, or 21 km distance automatically entitles you to entry into Run Bird Run. Please keep your bib on so we can identify you quickly.

Do you have storage facilities?

YES. We will have bag check-in available at the Camp Reserve. For those running the 21 km event, there will be a complimentary bag transfer from Maldon to Castlemaine, where belongings will be held securely.

What age do I need to be to participate?

All entrants under 11 need to be accompanied by an adult (registered in the event) at all times.
Entrants under the age 16 are not permitted to run the half-marathon, but they are welcome to run at the 5 km or 10 km event.

Can I push a pram in the event?

Yes, but please be mindful and start towards the back of the group. Also, be aware that trail run surfaces can be rough and unpredictable.

Can I run with my dog?

No, sadly, dogs are not permitted at the Camp Reserve. The only exception granted is for registered assistance dogs.

Where will the first aid stations be?

Mobile on the course. Ask the nearest Race Marshall for assistance.

Will there be water available?

Yes. Water stations will be set up around the courses. Details will be announced; please check out the social media feeds.
We also encourage you to bring your water bottle!

What do I do if I have an emergency during the event?

We ask that all participants record their name, address, any existing medical conditions or allergies, and emergency contact details on the back of their bib so that one of our many race marshalls positioned over the course can alert the health officials and or the CFA crews we have standing by.

Toilets?

There are several toilets at the Camp Reserve; these will be signposted. There are toilets at Castlemaine & Maldon stations (for the half-marathon runners). There is also a toilet and drinks stop at Muckleford Station, approximately 1/2 way distance on the half marathon course. For 5 km runners & Walkers, there are several toilets in the Castlemaine Botanical Gardens. All will be signposted.

Where can I park my car?

There will be no parking in the Camp Reserve, and parking along Forest Street and Gingel Street will be limited, too. However, there is ample parking at Castlemaine station, with car parks on Kennedy Street. There is strictly no parking opposite the Railway Hotel.