Parkrun is a free weekly, five-kilometre walk, run or jog that happens in different locations worldwide. 

Nhill’s Katrina Trewartha said her mother, Bev Rethus, 80, had been instrumental in getting a parkrun in Nhill.

“Parkrun is something that was introduced to us when we were visiting NSW,” she said.

“It is a community event that is run by volunteers and there is about 180 parkrun events in Australia now.

“They happen every Saturday at 8am.”

Mrs Trewartha said the event was not a race, but it was timed and participants were emailed their results each week.

“It’s a worldwide event that started in England in 2004,” she said.

“People can take part anywhere in the world.”

Mrs Trewartha encouraged people of all ages to get involved.

“It’s kid-friendly, dog-friendly and pram-friendly,” she said.

“It’s very exciting to have a parkrun in Nhill – it’s a community-based event that promotes fitness and being healthy.”

Mrs Rethus had been campaigning for a Nhill parkrun for about 12 months.

This involved raising money for start-up costs and applying for grants.

Mrs Trewartha said her mother was passionate about the event.

“Mum is 80 and she is very excited,” she said.

“It’s a wonderful legacy for her to leave to the town.”

Mrs Trewartha said people were coming from all over to take part in the event.

“It has a lot of hype – lots of tourists travel around to different towns to participate,” she said.

“There will be live results along with a barbecue and cake afterwards.”

Mrs Trewartha said people had to register for the event online at parkrun.com.au.

She said people should come down to Nhill’s Jaypex Park at 7.45am ready to start.

The Horsham Sports and Community Club and Hindmarsh Shire provided funding for the event.