It hasn't been held in 18 weeks, but Bathurst parkrun is set to make its long awaited return on Saturday morning.
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The weekly five kilometre run was suspended back in August, like so many other events, due to the state-wide COVID-19 lockdown.
Bathurst parkrun organiser Jen Arnold said she's excited for the event's return.
"We've said it before that parkrun isn't really about the five kilometre run or walk. We can do that anywhere," she said.
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"It's about the community and feeling connected to people and feeling a part of something. We've really missed each others' company and being able to see each other every week."
While she's unsure exactly how many people will show up on Saturday morning, Arnold said she's believes there could be anywhere between 100 and 200 people.
"It's a tricky time of year, with a lot people starting holidays and travelling away," she said.
"We've covered the volunteer roster easily, so that's nice to see that even though some might not be able to run or walk the course that they want to be a part of parkrun."
Because of the easing of restrictions on Wednesday, participants are not required to sign-in or to be fully vaccinated.
"So parkrun Australia have a philosophy of being inclusive and everyone welcome, so that's why we weren't starting parkrun until now," Arnold said.
"Everyone is welcome, whatever your vaccination status. We want to welcome everyone and it means our volunteers aren't being asked to check vaccination status and QR codes.
"It's almost back to business as usual but we'll still take precautions where we can."
There will be a parkrun on Christmas Day and on New Year's Day, with both to get underway at the normal 8am start.
"That Christmas Day parkrun has become a really nice ritual to look forward to for so many families and people who might be a little bit lonely or not near their family or friends," Arnold said.
"It's a nice way to start the day."
To register, visit www.parkrun.com.au/bathurst.
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