South Dubbo River Runners: New run club aims to create community and support business

A Central West local with a passion for running and community has started a run club to encourage a safe space for other locals to connect while ticking off their fitness goals.

What started as a small run club for friends has turned into a community-based activity to meet new people in town.

South Dubbo River Runners founder Zali Thomas started the club on Instagram and will hold the first official run on Friday, March 15 at 5.45am at South Dubbo Oval.

Ms Thomas attended a run club in Sydney earlier this year and thought she would create something similar in Dubbo on a weekday.

“It was such a great atmosphere and vibe, we were just chatting and getting to know everyone – it’s a really great way to introduce exercise while you’re meeting new people,” Ms Thomas said.

“It’s free, it’s in the community, you can meet new faces and be active at the same time.

Zali Thomas and the South Dubbo River Runners. Photo: Supplied.

“I hope to turn the narrative of going for a run as something you dread into something you look forward to every week.

“I would love to create a community of runners from different backgrounds, abilities, genders, ages and experiences.

South Dubbo River Runners testing out the track for their weekly run. Photo: Supplied.

“It’s about creating a sense of collective belonging among the people of Dubbo.”

She said the club would be accessible to both locals and people passing through town with no obligation to continue each week.

“I think there are so many people in Dubbo who already love to be active, I just think we lack places where we can do it for free,” she said.

Weekly crew keep up their fitness levels in community spirit. Photo: Supplied.

Ms Thomas gathered eight runners last week as a trial run for the club which started at the South Dubbo Oval and ran along the Macquarie River.

“I was stoked with the turnout, which I hope is a sign of good things to come,” she said.

“Everyone smashed the run and gave really positive and constructive feedback so I’m keen to make a few minor tweaks for the first official run and build from there.”

She said the group ended their run with a coffee from You Galah! which received a “massive tick” of approval from the crew.