The 2026 Cardinia Fun Run & Walk has cemented its place as one of the region’s most loved community events, drawing a record 567 participants and raising more than $21,000 for local families in need.
Delivered by Aligned Leisure in partnership with Cardinia Shire Council on behalf of the Cardinia Community Foundation, the event brought together people of all ages for a morning of fitness and fun.
Participation has grown significantly year-on-year, with registrations climbing from 120 in 2024, to 380 in 2025, and now reaching 567 in 2026- a clear reflection of the event’s growing impact and popularity within the community.
Just as impressive has been the growth in fundraising. This year’s total of $21,322 marks a substantial increase from $13,148 in 2025 and $5,000 in 2024. Since its earlier beginnings at the racecourse in 2018 and 2019, the event has now raised more than $47,000 for the Cardinia Community Foundation.
Aligned Leisure’s Cardinia Leisure Manager, Paige Kristalyn, said the event continues to deliver meaningful outcomes for the local community.
“I’m incredibly proud to bring the Cardinia Fun Run/Walk to the community,” she said.
“The event was a fantastic morning of fitness, fun and community connection. Delivered in partnership with Cardinia Shire Council on behalf of the Cardinia Community Foundation, the event encourages people of all ages to be active while raising vital funds to support individuals and families experiencing hardship across Cardinia Shire.”
Cardinia Shire Councillor Jack Kowarzik also praised the event’s impact and community spirit.
The Cardinia Fun Run & Walk was an amazing local event that brought together so many people in our community — people who wanted to give back and have a bit of fun doing it.
Jack Kowarzik, Cardinia Shire Councillor
“I want to thank Aligned Leisure for their commitment to ensuring everything ran smoothly, and the positivity of the staff members, which certainly helped me and others get across the finish line!”
Cardinia Foundation Executive Officer, Kara Norton-Jones highlighted the impact and legacy of this event.
“We are incredibly grateful to everyone who took part in the 2026 Cardinia Fun Run/Walk and helped create such a vibrant and uplifting community event. Seeing so many participants come together in support of their local community is truly inspiring. Funds raised will go even further, forming a named fund that will create a lasting legacy for Aligned Leisure in the Cardinia community, supporting many local initiatives for years to come.
We sincerely thank the team at Cardinia Life for their amazing hard work and effort for putting on an incredible event and every participant and supporter who made the day such a success. Together, we are helping our community not just thrive today, but into the future.”
The success of the event was also made possible thanks to the support of a number of valued partners and sponsors, including major sponsors Southside Racing, O’Connor Meats and Gumbuya World, along with contributors Nutrition Warehouse, Star News, Neilson Partners – First National Real Estate, SJD Homes, Pakenham Trophies, Montague Farm and Bellevue Farm Gate.
