Run Victoria’s Best Events for Variety in 2026
Whatever You Do – Do It for the Kids
When you run with Variety, every kilometre supports children who are sick, living with disability or experiencing disadvantage.
Choose your event. Set your goal. We’ll help you make every step count.
2026 Melbourne & Victoria Running Events
Featured Event - Run Melbourne
Sunday 19 Jul 2026
Melbourne’s biggest closed-road running event
Join over 27,000 runners as you race through the heart of the city and finish at Melbourne Park. Run with Team Variety and turn your race day into real impact for kids across Victoria.
Whether you're tackling the Half Marathon, 10km or 5km, we’ll support you to smash your fundraising goal.
Sunset Series
4 Feb to 4 March 2026
Fast, flat and made for PBs
Short, sharp racing with a high-energy community vibe.
Run with Variety and make your personal best count for kids.
Run The Rock
Saturday 21 Mar 2026
Scenic challenge. Festival finish.
Take on stunning views and celebrate in the event village.
Join Team Variety and turn your effort into real impact.
Ballarat Marathon
25 - 26 April 2026
Regional pride. All abilities.
Choose your distance and run historic Ballarat streets.
Fundraise for kids who need practical equipment and support.
Great Ocean Road
16 - 17 May 2026
One of the world’s most scenic runs
Bucket-list views across multiple distances.
Run with Variety and change a child’s everyday life.
Geelong Running Festival
Sunday 20 Sep 2026
Coastal vibes. Strong community feel.
A brilliant event for first-timers and seasoned runners alike.
Run for Variety and help kids join in at school and in life.
Nike Melbourne Marathon
Sunday 11 October 2026
Iconic city race. Legendary finish.
From 5km to marathon, this one’s for the bragging rights.
Join Team Variety and run for kids across Victoria.
THE WHY
Why Run for Variety?
Because your effort becomes action.
Because kids deserve the chance to be heard, belong and join in.
Because running feels even better when it changes lives.
When you join Team Variety, you’ll receive
- Fundraising support and tools
- Personalised tips and milestone encouragement
- Impact updates so you see exactly what you’re making possible
Run strong.
Run together.
Run for the kids.
YOUR IMPACT
How You'll Help Kids in Need
Every dollar you raise helps Variety support kids who are sick, disadvantaged or living with disability through vital equipment, programs and experiences.
$280
First bike
Help a child who would otherwise miss out ride, play and belong.
$700
Communication device
Help a child be heard and included.
$1,500
Mobility equipment
Help a child move with confidence and independence.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to be an experienced runner to join Team Variety?
Not at all. Whether you’re taking on your first 5km or chasing a marathon personal best, there’s an event and distance to suit you. Many of our runners are first-timers who simply want to make a difference for kids.
Is there a fundraising minimum?
Some events may have a suggested fundraising target, particularly if you’re securing a charity super star place. Others allow you to set your own goal. We encourage every runner to aim high, because every dollar raised helps children access vital equipment, therapy and opportunities.
How does fundraising work?
Once you register for your chosen event and join Team Variety, you’ll receive a personalised fundraising page. Share it with friends, family and colleagues, and we’ll provide tips and ideas to help you reach your goal.
It’s simple to set up and even easier to share.
What does my fundraising support?
Your efforts help children who are sick, living with disability or experiencing disadvantage.
Funds raised can provide:
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Mobility and adaptive equipment
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Communication devices
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Therapy support
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Access to sport, education and community participation
Every kilometre you run turns into practical support for a child and their family.
Can I join as a team?
Yes. You can create a team with friends, family or colleagues and fundraise together. Running as a team is a powerful way to build momentum and make an even bigger impact.
I’ve already registered for an event. Can I still fundraise for Variety?
Absolutely. If you’ve secured your place directly through the event organiser, you can still join Team Variety and set up a fundraising page. We’d love to have you on board.
What support will I receive from Variety?
When you join Team Variety, you’ll receive:
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Fundraising tips and templates
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Milestone encouragement
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Impact updates so you can see what you’re making possible
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A supportive community running with purpose
We’re here to help you succeed.
How do I get started?
Choose your event above, click through to join Team Variety, and set up your fundraising page. From there, share your story and start raising funds to help kids across Victoria.
New to Charity Running?
Visit our Charity Running Knowledge Hub
Ready to Get Started? Choose your event and secure your charity place today. Every step helps.
Variety have a range or resources and fundraising tools to help you on your way!
Contact us at (03) 8698 3900 or fundraising@varietyvic.org.au
