South Dubbo River Runners: Zali Thomas celebrates community-based run club to motivate others

A Central West run club, which started as a small group of friends as a way for women to feel safe running in the dark, has grown exponentially in the past couple of months. Here’s the latest.

Gather to run and grab a coffee before work as a social activity – Zali Thomas with Harriet Spork and Kelpie Eddie. Picture: Rohan Kelly

A Central West run club which initially started with a few mates has turned into a weekly event to celebrate the end of the week with a final sprint.

South Dubbo River Runners founder Zali Thomas established the club earlier this year as a way to catch up with friends while being healthy and motivated.

“As the days grew shorter and we approached winter, running after work no longer felt safe as it was getting dark earlier, so I thought why not ask a few friends to join me for an after-work jog,” Ms Thomas said.

“Everyone seemed to really enjoy exercising together and it was a great opportunity to catch up with mates while staying healthy.

The run club gathered in front of You Galah! on Friday morning. Picture: Rohan Kelly

“One thing led to another, and I decided to turn it into a run club so I could formally spread the word for anyone and everyone to join in.”

She said the club was growing by the week, with fresh faces attending each Friday at 5.45am at the South Dubbo Oval.

“I love seeing old friends and meeting new faces every Friday morning, while creating a community of active, happy people of all abilities, ages and backgrounds,” she said.

Runner Zoe Macfarlan said the group had provided her an opportunity to run in the dark before work which she would not be able to do alone.

“Being my first year in Dubbo, I have also met so many people I probably wouldn’t have had the chance to otherwise,” she said.

Isaac Naqash, Harriet Spork, Zali Thomas and Dayyan Gil with dogs Pie (Oodle) and Kelpie Eddie. Picture: Rohan Kelly

“Zali keeps things interesting each week incorporating new routes, and of course the delicious coffee and chats at the end are such a highlight.”

Runner Georgie Jones also added that the club had kept her motivated to go for a run each week.

“It’s such a great way to start a Friday,” she said.

The 5km run ends at You Galah! each week so runners can purchase a coffee when they’re done.