I am thrilled to acknowledge the Beach2Beach Charity Fun Run, which has been recognised as the community event of the year in the 2024 Australia Day Awards.

The Beach2Beach Charity Fun Run, previously known as the Pub2Pub Charity Fun Run, is an annual event open to all abilities and ages. It encourages the community to be involved, get healthy, exercise and have fun, all the while raising money for great local charities and organisations. The event was started 30 years ago by the Bayfield family—thank you—and over 15 years has been organised by the Rotary Club of Warringah as an annual event on the Northern Beaches. The aim is to continue to grow and showcase our beautiful beaches and surrounds and to continue to raise money for local charities. Since its inception the Beach2Beach has donated over $5 million to local community organisations, including schools, surf lifesaving clubs, scouts and many charities already benefitting from this wonderful event. I even did it once; I did not just fire the gun. I walked it, but I did it. I love your work Rotary and thank you to the Bayfields for your vision. Well done.