“We know already that we benefit the community by providing healthy activity for fitness-minded people and their families,” said the club’s incoming president, David Hunter.

“Members pay a nominal fee to join the club but after that our racing is completely free.

“For that, we’re confident our members would support at least one race in which a $10 entry fee would be donated to a worthy cause.”

The Stawell Amateur Athletic Club season commences with the running of the five-kilometre Barham Insurance Handicap this Saturday, March 17 but the club’s Facebook page is now open to receive submissions from any community groups or individuals in need of fundraising support.

“Every dollar collected will be given to the successful submission and this is not a one-off.

“The offer will be on the table from now on and into the foreseeable future.”

Hunter said that anyone who donates to the cause will not be required to run in the selected race, nor will there be any pressure to join the club.

“We have 20 Saturday races a season over a variety of courses and distances, starting at 10am.

“All are free ‘come and try’ races in a relaxed and friendly family environment.

“The beauty of handicap racing is that everyone - the fastest, the slowest, the youngest and the oldest all have a chance of winning prizes and trophies donated by generous sponsors,” Hunter said.

The club is a friendly, family-oriented group of people who love to get together once a week to have fun and keep fit. The ‘come and try’ season opener meets at the North Park clubrooms for registration from 9.15am.