This follows the decision by Bathurst Regional Council to give the green light to a new recreational community event called Parkrun.

In April, council was approached by Parkrun Australia to make Bicentennial Park available to the not-for-profit organisation for the introduction of a weekly park run.

According to the letter submitted by Jennifer Arnold (a member of the organising team for Parkrun), the event would be a free initiative aimed at helping increase people’s health and fitness, as well as providing the city with a new, fun community event. 

“Very simply, Parkrun is a free, weekly, timed five-kilometre run or walk for anyone that wants to take part,” the letter stated. 

“The concept was founded 10 years ago in the United Kingdom and has since grown around the world, including Australia.”

More than 150 events exist in Australia currently, with the first starting on Main Beach at the Gold Cost in April 2011. Globally, there is approximately 600 Parkruns in operation.

Dubbo also introduced its own Parkrun more than a year ago for its residents. 

According to its organisers, the local Parkrun would use the parks and paths along the Macquarie River between 8am and 9.30am every Saturday morning to conduct the timed runs.

The group also asked that council waive any fees associated with the use of the precinct. 

Initially, the group requested council fund $5000 towards the establishment costs for the project, however, the necessary funds were able to be sourced from other local organisations. 

Ms Arnold expects a launch date for Parkrun to occur in June or July this year.

“The group would operate in a family-friendly environment, promoting healthy lifestyles and inclusivity through social interaction. Because it is free, no one is excluded,” Ms Arnold said in her letter to council.

“While it is non-competitive individuals are still able to challenge themselves against their own times.”