Run Beyond was very fortunate to receive a grant from the North Shore Coaching College Charity Foundation this year. The grant, in memory of Mrs Demi Mak, provides for the cost of running equipment to schools and communities and was generously presented to Run Beyond to assist students to participate in the Project and achieve goals “beyond the finish line”.
As our supporters are keenly aware, the cost of living crisis has impacted the charity sector severely, with most charities experiencing a decrease in donations but, particularly in the case of Run Beyond, an increase in demand for the programs. This year saw Run Beyond graduate a mammoth 16 cohorts, with 136 students from around New South Wales and the Northern Territory participating in the Program. This increase in demand is already looking to be surpassed in the coming year, with some very deserving schools, from Campbelltown to Coomealla, on our waitlist for 2024.
While the reach of Run Beyond grows each year, our equipment costs relating to apparel remain our highest out of pocket, non-negotiable expense, and these costs of course increase proportionally with the Programs growth. Wearing The Run Beyond Project t-shirt is a major component of the Program – it identifies our students as part of an aspirational group, and contributes significantly to their sense of belonging, both to their school cohort, and to an organisation that celebrates their progress and achievements beyond the school community.
The sense of belonging is perhaps best encapsulated by one of our Nambucca Heads High School graduates – ““I now know what it feels like to be part of a team.”
The impact is also noted by parents, with one parent comment on our social media pages this year reading “The Run Beyond Project have given (them) so much inspiration and drive to succeed! What a great team to be a part of! (They have) absolutely loved being a part of the team! Thank you!”
The North Shore Coaching College Charity Foundation Grant Funds will ensure our apparel expenses are covered for 2024. A large proportion of these expenses are now guaranteed, giving our 2024 students the opportunity to identify as part of a team dedicated to the development of their personal and social capabilities.
The generous support of the North Shore Coaching College in memory of Mrs Demi Mak, will have a lasting and positive impact on our growing waitlist of students and teachers and they, along with all our volunteers, are extremely appreciative of this kind show of support and confidence.
RBP receives North shore coaching college foundation grant
2025 marked a milestone year for The Run Beyond Project — a year defined by growth, impact, and the unwavering belief that running can change lives. With every stride, our students, teachers, supporters, and partners helped push the boundaries of what’s possible, and the results speak for themselves.
A Record-Breaking Year of Graduates
Thanks to the momentum created by the Australian Sports Commission PlayWell Grant awarded to Run Beyond in 2024, our program reached more young people than ever before.
- 332 students graduated in 2025, representing our largest annual cohort to date.
- These achievements bring our total number of graduates to 740, a testament to the dedication of our partner schools and the resilience of our students.
Expanding Our Reach Across Australia
This year, The Run Beyond Project was active in 38 schools across four states and territories:
- New South Wales
- Victoria
- Western Australia
- Northern Territory
We were also supported by five incredible supporter schools, whose commitment helped strengthen our community and extend our impact.
Equipping Every Student for Success
Access and equity remain at the heart of our mission. In 2025, every participating student received high‑quality running shoes and kit — an essential part of ensuring all young people can participate with confidence.
This was made possible through the continued generosity of On Running and Pace Athletics, whose support once again removed barriers and empowered students to show up ready to give their best.
Beyond Borders Virtual Run: Another Inspiring Success
Our annual Beyond Borders Virtual Run returned in 2025, uniting participants from across the country in a shared challenge that celebrates endurance, community, and purpose.
The event’s success will play a crucial role in fueling our next phase of growth, helping us bring the program to an anticipated 60+ schools in 2026.
Looking Ahead
As we close out 2025, we’re energised by what lies ahead. With more schools joining, more students participating, and more communities rallying behind our mission, The Run Beyond Project is poised to make 2026 our most transformative year yet.
Every step taken this year — on the track, in the classroom, and across our communities — has helped shape a brighter future for young people nationwide. Thank you to everyone who has supported us, believed in us, and run beyond with us.
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