The Bendigo Harriers Club members were pounding the surface of the O’Keefe Rail Trail for Mother’s Day 2024.

The start location for the various running events was near the trail’s new car parking and associated facilities at Peppercorn Park, Longlea.

Nearly ready for a start. Photo: Neil Macdonald

Various age groups and distances had athletes completing for a personal best, with the 100 year old club’s event being well supported.

Replica railway station sign. Photo: Neil Macdonald

While the new public facilities, such as toilets, shelter, and table seats, are yet to be installed, unfortunately, the new 16 vehicle carpark did not have sufficient capacity for this event’s participants. 

Runners seeking a PB. Photo: Neil Macdonald

Having safe off-road track conditions for the runners in a rural environment area, such could see this section of the trail becoming a location for similar future events. This Longlea area is already popular as a trail user starting point option for the general public.