5K Yarns Podcast with BILLO.

Some people travel to Torquay searching for the perfect wave…
I travelled 412 kilometres searching for another great parkrun story.
In Episode 16 of 5K Yarns on the Road to parkrunday with BILLO, I head to Victoria’s spectacular Surf Coast to experience Torquay parkrun – Event 392.
This journey is about much more than another 5-kilometre parkrun. It’s a story of one of Australia’s most iconic coastal towns, home to Bells Beach, the birthplace of Rip Curl, the Australian home of Quiksilver, and the gateway to the world-famous Great Ocean Road.
Volunteering as one of the Tail Walkers gave me the opportunity to experience Torquay parkrun from a unique perspective while bringing the field home alongside a welcoming community of walkers and runners. Along the way, I share my thoughts on the course, the stunning coastal scenery, the incredible volunteer team, and why this event deserves a place on every parkrun tourist’s bucket list.
After parkrun, I enjoy brunch overlooking the Southern Ocean at the Salty Dog Café, visit the legendary Bells Beach, and finish the day with a drive along part of the Great Ocean Road while exploring the remarkable story behind its construction by returned First World War servicemen.
Whether you’re a passionate parkrunner, a parkrun tourist, a lover of Australian history, or simply someone who enjoys discovering remarkable places, I hope this episode inspires you to add Torquay to your own adventure list.
A huge thank you to the Torquay parkrun volunteer team for making Event 392 such a welcoming and memorable experience.
Because, as always…
Every barcode has a story.

The Tailwalking Legends – Episode 2
Volunteering, Rebranding & Barcode Nonsense
Welcome back to The Tailwalking Legends, the monthly podcast from 5K Yarns, where four passionate parkrun enthusiasts come together to chat about everything parkrunday.
Join BILLO, Sir Koppo, The Mayor of Tuggeranong (Tyson Flynn) and The Viking (Paul Whelan) as they share stories from their latest parkrun tourism adventures, reflect on volunteering, and tackle some of the biggest talking points in the parkrun community.
In Episode 2, the legends discuss:
* Their latest parkrun tourism experiences from across Australia.
* The volunteer roles they love… and one role each of them would rather leave to someone else.
* Whether parkrun needs a rebrand and how the community continues to evolve.
* Funny stories, memorable moments and plenty of good-natured banter.
The episode also highlights Paul “The Viking” Whelan’s UNICEF Australia Dusk to Dawn Challenge, where he’ll be walking 42 kilometres overnight through Sydney to raise funds for vulnerable children around the world.
Whether you’re a seasoned parkrun tourist, a first-time participant, a volunteer, or simply someone who enjoys hearing great community stories, The Tailwalking Legends offers a relaxed, honest and entertaining conversation about the people who make parkrun special.
So grab a coffee, lace up your shoes—or simply sit back and enjoy another episode filled with stories, laughs and plenty of barcode nonsense.
Because every barcode has a story.
⸻
About The Tailwalking Legends
The Tailwalking Legends is an independently produced podcast from 5K Yarns celebrating the people, places and stories that make the parkrun community unique. Each month the panel shares experiences from around Australia, discusses current topics, interviews members of the community and reminds us that parkrun is about far more than simply crossing the finish line.
Disclaimer: Unless otherwise stated, the views, opinions and experiences expressed by the hosts and guests are their own and should not be interpreted as official statements, policies or positions of parkrun Australia, parkrun Global or any individual parkrun event or volunteer team. References to parkrun events, volunteers, participants and locations are made in good faith for the purposes of storytelling, education, community engagement and entertainment.

🎙️ 5K Yarns at parkrun meets Road to parkrun with BILLO
In this episode, Billo and Lila head more than 300 kilometres west across Northern Victoria to visit one of Australia’s most unique parkrun destinations — Pyramid Hill Golf Trail parkrun.
What started as a simple parkrun tourism adventure quickly became a reminder of what makes country communities so special.
From the moment we arrived in Pyramid Hill, we experienced genuine country hospitality, stayed at the historic Victoria Hotel (complete with what might be the loudest staircase in Australia!), enjoyed breakfast at the beautifully restored Coffee Bank, and discovered a parkrun that punches well above its weight in character and community spirit.
We chat about:🏃 Pyramid Hill Golf Trail parkrun🚗 The road trip across Northern Victoria☕ The Coffee Bank and local history🏨 The Victoria Hotel experience👥 Meeting locals and fellow parkrunners🌄 Why parkrun tourism takes you to places you’d never otherwise visit📍 The unique three-lap course around the base of Pyramid Hill❤️ The volunteers and community that make this event so memorable
With only a small number of weekly participants, Pyramid Hill Golf Trail parkrun proves that great parkrun experiences aren’t measured by attendance numbers. They’re measured by the people you meet, the stories you hear, and the memories you create along the way.
Whether you’re a dedicated parkrun tourist, a weekend adventurer, or simply someone who enjoys discovering hidden gems around Australia, this is an episode you’ll enjoy.
Because every barcode has a story.
The barcode is just the beginning of the story.
#5KYarnsAtParkrun #RoadToParkrunWithBILLO #ParkrunTourism #PyramidHillGolfTrailParkrun #EveryBarcodeHasAStory
DISCLAIMER:
“5K Yarns on the Road to parkrunday with BILLO is an independently produced podcast and video series. Unless otherwise stated, all views, opinions, commentary, observations and experiences expressed are those of the host and participating guests. They should not be interpreted as official statements, policies or positions of parkrun Australia, parkrun Global or any individual parkrun event or volunteer team. References to parkrun events, volunteers, participants and locations are made in good faith for the purpose of storytelling, education, community engagement and entertainment.”

Red Hill Rail Trail parkrun | Mornington Peninsula, Victoria | 5K Yarns on the Road to parkrunday with BILLO – Episode 15
This week on 5K Yarns on the Road to parkrunday with BILLO, we journey to one of Victoria’s most scenic rail trail events – Red Hill Rail Trail parkrun on the beautiful Mornington Peninsula.
Join BILLO as he explores a course rich in history, surrounded by towering trees, peaceful bushland and the legacy of the former Red Hill railway line. This isn’t just another parkrun; it’s a chance to slow down, appreciate the landscape, and discover why this hidden gem has become a favourite among locals and visiting parkrun tourists alike.
In this episode you’ll discover:
The history behind the Red Hill Rail Trail and the former railway corridor.
What to expect from the parkrun course, including terrain, elevation and atmosphere.
The welcoming volunteer team and supportive community that make every participant feel at home.
Why this is a course to enjoy rather than chase a personal best.
Post-parkrun recommendations and reflections from another memorable Victorian parkrun adventure.
Whether you’re a seasoned parkrun tourist, a weekend adventurer or simply love hearing stories from around Australia, this episode celebrates the people, places and experiences that make parkrun so special.
Because every barcode has a story… and this one begins at Red Hill.
🎧 5K Yarns on the Road to parkrunday with BILLOEvery barcode has a story.
#5KYarns #parkrun #RedHillRailTrail #MorningtonPeninsula #Victoria #parkrunTourism #RunningPodcast #Parkwalk #TailWalker #EveryBarcodeHasAStory #BILLO
DISCLAIMER:
“5K Yarns on the Road to parkrunday with BILLO is an independently produced podcast and video series. Unless otherwise stated, all views, opinions, commentary, observations and experiences expressed are those of the host and participating guests. They should not be interpreted as official statements, policies or positions of parkrun Australia, parkrun Global or any individual parkrun event or volunteer team. References to parkrun events, volunteers, participants and locations are made in good faith for the purpose of storytelling, education, community engagement and entertainment.”

Episode 12 | Portarlington parkrun | Bellarine Peninsula, Victoria
What begins as a simple trip to Portarlington parkrun quickly becomes one of our biggest adventures yet!
In Episode 12 of 5K Yarns on the Road to parkrun with BILLO, Lila and I travel more than 800 kilometres for an unforgettable weekend on Victoria’s beautiful Bellarine Peninsula.
Together we explore the fascinating history behind the town of Portarlington, discover why it isn’t called Port Arlington, walk one of Victoria’s most scenic parkrun courses, and experience the warm hospitality of the local parkrun community.
The adventure doesn’t stop there. We enjoy breakfast at the famous Portarlington Bakehouse, take the Queenscliff to Sorrento Ferry across Port Phillip Bay, and finish the day at the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground, where Collingwood and Richmond battle it out in front of a passionate crowd.
This episode is a celebration of what makes parkrun tourism so special. It’s about much more than running or walking five kilometres—it’s about discovering remarkable places, meeting wonderful people, supporting local communities, and creating memories that last a lifetime.
In this episode:
• The history of Portarlington and Sir Henry Bennet, 1st Earl of Arlington.• Bellarine Bayside Holiday Parks accommodation.• Portarlington parkrun course review and photography.• Breakfast at the Portarlington Bakehouse.• Queenscliff to Sorrento Ferry experience.• AFL at the Melbourne Cricket Ground.• Why every parkrun adventure can become so much more than just a Saturday morning.
Thank you for listening to 5K Yarns on the Road to parkrun with BILLO.
Remember…
The barcode gets you across the finish line… but it’s the people, the places and the stories that make the journey unforgettable.
Until next parkrunday, keep exploring… because every barcode has a story.
DISCLAIMER:
“5K Yarns on the Road to parkrunday with BILLO is an independently produced podcast and video series. Unless otherwise stated, all views, opinions, commentary, observations and experiences expressed are those of the host and participating guests. They should not be interpreted as official statements, policies or positions of parkrun Australia, parkrun Global or any individual parkrun event or volunteer team. References to parkrun events, volunteers, participants and locations are made in good faith for the purpose of storytelling, education, community engagement and entertainment.”

Road to Victory | Victory Road Reserve parkrun | 5K Yarns on the Road to parkrunday with BILLO
This week on 5K Yarns on the Road to parkrunday with BILLO, we’re heading to Victory Road Reserve parkrun in Clarinda, Melbourne’s south-east.
Known as Victoria’s only parkrun beginning with the letter “V”, this event offers much more than just another stop on another parkrun adventure.
What many visitors don’t realise is that Victory Road Reserve was once one of Melbourne’s major landfill sites. Since closing in 2019, it has undergone an extraordinary transformation into more than 30 hectares of community parkland, complete with walking trails, native vegetation, fitness facilities and spectacular views.
In this episode, we uncover the remarkable story behind the reserve, including the fascinating network of methane gas extraction wells hidden beneath the landscape. Discover how these engineering systems continue to safely capture landfill gas and help generate renewable electricity while hundreds of parkrunners, walkers and volunteers enjoy the reserve every Saturday morning.
We’ll also explore the unique two-loop course, share the event statistics, recognise the incredible volunteer team—including first-time volunteer Nan—and finish the morning with a visit to the popular Fred & Peg’s Café.
This episode is a reminder that sometimes the greatest stories aren’t found in the most obvious places.
Sometimes the Road to Victory isn’t about crossing the finish line first.
Sometimes it’s about transformation, resilience and giving a place—and perhaps even ourselves—a second chance.
Thank you for joining me on another adventure.
5K Yarns on the Road to parkrunday with BILLO — Where every barcode has a story.
 
🎥 YouTube: https://youtu.be/5Esh4yFtrVc?
🏃 Official Victory Road Reserve parkrun:https://www.parkrun.com.au/victoryroadreserve/
📘 Victory Road Reserve parkrun Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/victoryroadreserveparkrun/
Disclaimer:
“5K Yarns on the Road to parkrunday with BILLO is an independently produced podcast and video series. Unless otherwise stated, all views, opinions, commentary, observations and experiences expressed are those of the host and participating guests. They should not be interpreted as official statements, policies or positions of parkrun Australia, parkrun Global or any individual parkrun event or volunteer team. References to parkrun events, volunteers, participants and locations are made in good faith for the purpose of storytelling, education, community engagement and entertainment.”

🐎 Episode 15 | The Phar Lap Track parkrun – Braeside, Victoria
The parkrun destination that stops a nation.
What do Australia’s greatest racehorse and a Saturday morning parkrun have in common?
More than you might think.
In this episode of 5K Yarns on the Road to parkrunday with BILLO, we journey to The Phar Lap Track parkrun at Braeside Park, Victoria—an event unlike any other.
After a 4:00am departure and a 355-kilometre drive from Wodonga, BILLO discovers a parkrun where history, community and storytelling come together. Once the training grounds of Australia’s legendary Phar Lap, this peaceful bushland setting now welcomes runners, walkers and volunteers from all walks of life every Saturday morning.
Along the way you’ll discover:🐎 The incredible story of Phar Lap and his devoted strapper Tommy Woodcock.🐴 The touching story behind “Bobby”, the little horse mascot loved by The Phar Lap Track community.🌳 A complete review of the course, facilities, parking and what to expect on your visit.☕ Why Son of Adam has become the go-to café for post-parkrun breakfast.🏅 Event 45 highlights, including a celebration of Kathleen’s remarkable 500th parkrun milestone.👏 A heartfelt tribute to the volunteers who make parkrun possible every week.
Whether you’re a passionate parkrun tourist, a history enthusiast or simply love discovering inspiring places and people, this episode is a reminder that every parkrun has its own unique story waiting to be told.
Because behind every finish token…Behind every milestone…And behind every barcode…
There’s a story worth telling.
 
🎙️ 5K Yarns on the Road to parkrunday with BILLO
“Every barcode has a story.”
Disclaimer:
“5K Yarns on the Road to parkrunday with BILLO is an independently produced podcast and video series. Unless otherwise stated, all views, opinions, commentary, observations and experiences expressed are those of the host and participating guests. They should not be interpreted as official statements, policies or positions of parkrun Australia, parkrun Global or any individual parkrun event or volunteer team. References to parkrun events, volunteers, participants and locations are made in good faith for the purpose of storytelling, education, community engagement and entertainment.”

5K Yarns on the Road to parkrunday with BILLO
Phillip Island, Victoria – On the Wild Side of parkrun
Featuring Phillip Island parkrun | Event 506
In this episode of 5K Yarns on the Road to parkrunday with BILLO, Lila and I head south from Wodonga in the I❤️PKRUN Prado to celebrate the 11th Birthday of Phillip Island parkrun.
Nestled on the picturesque and historic Churchill Island, this destination offers far more than just another Saturday morning parkrun. Join us as we experience one of Victoria’s most scenic parkrun courses, surrounded by breathtaking coastal views, rolling hills and an incredibly welcoming volunteer community.
As the official photographer for the event, I also capture the celebrations from a unique perspective while sharing the stories that make this parkrun community so special.
But the adventure doesn’t end at the finish line…
We spend the weekend exploring everything Phillip Island has to offer, including:
The fascinating history of Churchill Island.
The famous Scottish Highland cattle.
A “Drop Bear” investigation at the Koala Conservation Reserve.
Breakfast at the Café @ Churchill Island.
Cowes and its local shops.
A late lunch at the Phillip Island RSL.
The spectacular coastline at The Nobbies.
Seal Rocks and Australia’s largest Australian Fur Seal colony… even if the seals had other ideas!
An honest reflection on revisiting the world-famous Penguin Parade after more than 45 years.
This episode is about much more than a parkrun.
It’s about discovering local history, meeting passionate volunteers, exploring remarkable destinations and proving once again that every barcode really does have a story.
Whether you’re a seasoned parkrun tourist, planning your first visit to Phillip Island, or simply love discovering new places around Australia, this episode is for you.
The parkrun is always the reason we travel… but it’s everything else we discover along the way that makes the journey unforgettable.
🎙️ Hosted by Matthew “BILLO” Billington
Every barcode has a story. 🏃‍♂️🌊🐧🚙

Since first toeing the start line in 2016, Paul “Viking” Whelan has become one of Australia’s most recognisable parkrunners. Horned helmet? Check. Big smile? Always. Bigger heart? 100% Viking has chalked up 245 parkruns across 108 venues, volunteered 132 times in 17 roles, and still finds time to help first-timers scan their very first barcodes.
In this feel-good chat, BILLO and Viking discuss:
How a Canberra Raiders costume turned into a personal parkrun brand.
Tail-walking, barcode-scanning, and the joy of giving back (53 % volunteer ratio!).
Favourite memories, including a milestone 100th-different event in Queenstown, NZ.
The “milestone gap” (250 ➡ 500) and why junior parkruns are needed in NSW.
Dream tourism plans from Singapore to the birthplace at Bushy Park, UK.
A heart-warming story of signing up a 70-year-old mid-vent.
Whether you’re a seasoned tourist or considering your first 5K, Viking’s energy will have you lacing up before the outro rolls.
QUICK STATS
• 245 runs │ PB 34:16 │ Wilson Index 34
• 132 volunteer credits │ 76 venues │ 17 roles
• Longest tourist streak 30 │ Avg. finish #139
TIMESTAMPS
00:00  Welcome & stat rundown
04:24  Birth of the helmet tradition
10:40  Favourite volunteer roles
14:32  Milestones & junior parkrun chat
20:34  Queenstown milestone memory
24:26  Dream destinations
30:13  Volunteer-shortage discussion
43:55  What parkrun adds to life
55:22  Rapid-fire wrap-up
CALL TO ACTIONS
 Got a parkrun tale of your own? Email: 5kyarns.podcast@gmail.com to be a future guest.
 If you enjoyed the show, rate & review — it helps other barcodes find us!

🎙️ 5K Yarns Podcast with BILLO | Featuring Jay Grimley – From Non-Runner to Marathon Dreamer 🏃‍♀️🌏
Welcome to another inspiring episode of 5K Yarns Podcast with BILLO, where every barcode has a story!
This week, we’re joined in person by passionate parkrun tourist and all-round legend Jay Grimley. Since first stepping onto the parkrun trail in September 2023, Jay has racked up an incredible 72 parkruns across 63 different locations, including a PB of 29min 31sec at Huskisson and a stunning streak of 36 different events in a row!
Jay isn’t just chasing PBs—she’s also chasing community. With 7 volunteer credits across multiple roles and a goal to hit her V25 milestone, Jay brings heart, humour, and honesty to the world of parkrun.
In this episode, we chat about:
✅ Her love for variety and the longest run challenge
✅ Building friendships through parkrun tourism
✅ Running half marathons (with parkrun as her only training!)
✅ Her evolving goals, including the Sydney Marathon
✅ How parkrun supports her mental health and gives her purpose
✅ What motivates her to keep showing up each Saturday
Plus, we reflect on favourite courses, parkrun quirks (hello, dog dodging!), community magic, and the power of a simple “well done” from a stranger.
📍This episode was recorded side-by-side while Jay visited Yackandandah Rail Trail parkrun and prepared to take on The Longest Run – NE Victoria/High Country edition!
💬 Whether you’re a seasoned parkrunner or a curious first-timer, Jay’s story is a powerful reminder that you don’t have to be a runner to belong—you just have to show up.
🔔 Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share to support everyday parkrun heroes like Jay.
🎧 Listen now and be inspired—one kilometre, one yarn at a time. #5KYarnsPodcast #parkrun #parkruntourist #parkrunaustralia #RunningCommunity #MentalHealthMatters #TheLongestRun #BILLO