THE skies cleared just in time on Sunday morning for the third annual Rotary River Run.
Already a community favourite on the district’s sporting calendar, the event brings locals together for fun, fitness, and fundraising along the beautiful Nambucca River.
Participants took the five kilometre route from Florence Wilmot Drive to the Boatshed Café and Tackle Shop, making the most of the welcome break in the rain.
The standout performance of the day came from 15 year-old Wilton Townsend, who blitzed the course in just 17.05 minutes, claiming victory in the Junior Boys’ Division and finishing as the fastest runner overall.
Winners in each division received $100 worth of prizes and a perpetual trophy, which will be displayed at the Boatshed Tackle Shop until the next event in May 2026.
Other standout winners included:
Men’ s Division: Riley Nowland – 20.53
Women’s Division: Olivia Weimer -19.16
Family Division: Jarrott Family
Junior Boys’ Division: Wilton Townsend -17.05
Junior Girls’ Division: Clara Watt – 28.29
Team Division: Brendan Goswell, Adam Snart, Chris Barnes, Andras Lahr.
Organisers extended a heartfelt thank you to the many local businesses and schools who supported the event, including: Nambucca Heads Island Golf Club, Macksville Country Club, Macksville Ex-Services Club, Nambucca Heads RSL, Nambucca Boatshed Café and Tackle Shop, Nambucca Heads High School, Macksville High School, and the Nambucca Christian Life Centre.
All proceeds from the River Run go toward supporting local youth through the Rotary Club’s community programs, helping young people access opportunities for growth, leadership, and learning.
To learn more about the Rotary Club of Nambucca Valley, or to get involved, visit their website at www.nambuccavalleyrotary.wordpress.com, email rotarynambuccavalley@gmail.com, or find them on Facebook at facebook.com/nambuccavalleyrotary.
By Mick BIRTLES
