5K Yarns Podcast with BILLO.

5K Yarns on the Road to parkrunday with BILLO heads to historic Braidwood, New South Wales, for Episode 24.
📍 Braidwood Showground parkrun
📅 Saturday 19 September 2026
🏁 Event 225
Braidwood is a town shaped by colonial settlement, the gold-rush era and some colourful chapters of Australian bushranging history.
We explore the road to Braidwood, the town’s history and bushranger connections before heading to the Showground for parkrunday.
Then it’s onto the unusual multi-lap 5K — the course, terrain, elevation, results, volunteers and the people behind this small regional event.
And once the barcode is scanned, we head beyond the finish line to discover a little more of Braidwood.
Small town. Big stories. Same spirit.
The barcode is just the beginning of the story.
🎬 WATCH EPISODE 24
https://youtu.be/alX_DuBk6Bk?si=eEfV71-aHQ1VBQOv
🏃 EVENT LINKS
Official parkrun webpage:
https://www.parkrun.com.au/braidwoodshowground/
Official Facebook page:
https://www.facebook.com/braidwoodshowgroundparkrun/
Always check official event channels before travelling for the latest information, cancellations or course changes.
🎵 MUSIC
“Wanderlust” — Scott Buckley
Used under Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International (CC BY 4.0).
https://www.scottbuckley.com.au/library/wanderlust/
https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
⚠️ DISCLAIMER
5K Yarns on the Road to parkrunday with BILLO is an independently produced travel, storytelling and parkrun-tourism series. It is not an official parkrun production and is not affiliated with, endorsed by, sponsored by or produced on behalf of parkrun Global or parkrun Australia.
Opinions, reviews and observations reflect the presenter’s experience during this visit. Course conditions, facilities, travel information and event arrangements may change. Check official sources before travelling.
📷 PHOTOGRAPHY & SAFEGUARDING
The person is more important than the photograph.
We aim to respect the privacy and preferences of everyone appearing in 5K Yarns content. A crossed-arms X means no photograph or filming. Requests for removal of imagery can be made through 5K Yarns.
🤖 AI DISCLOSURE
Some images and visual elements used in 5K Yarns may be AI-generated, AI-assisted, digitally altered, or created for illustrative and graphical purposes. Such imagery should not be considered an accurate depiction of actual people, places, events, historical scenes, conditions, or circumstances. No claim of factual, historical, geographical, or visual accuracy is intended or implied.
🎧 LISTEN • FOLLOW • SHARE
Listen on Spotify, Podbean and Apple Podcasts, or watch the complete visual episode on YouTube:
https://youtu.be/alX_DuBk6Bk?si=eEfV71-aHQ1VBQOv
EPISODE 24 — BUSHRANGERS & BARCODES
People. Places. Stories.
The barcode is just the beginning of the story.

After years of travelling across Victoria, the final piece is in place.
McIvor Creek Trail became my 127th of the 127 current Victorian parkrun locations—completing my Victorian Statesman journey for now.
The day began with a 5:00 am departure from Wodonga and a two-and-a-half-hour drive to Heathcote. What followed was far more than another five kilometres. Friends were there to regain their own Statesman status, 14 volunteers delivered a warm country welcome, and I completed my 320th parkrun as Tail Walker.
In this episode, I explore Heathcote’s story—from Taungurung Country and the McIvor gold rush to the railway, wine region and community of today.
I also discuss previous visitor reviews, the two-lap creekside course, trail conditions, suitable footwear, the morning’s results, brunch at Gaffney’s Bakery and five nearby places worth exploring after parkrun.
The course may not be my preferred style, but this became one of my most meaningful parkrundays.
The location completed the map; the people completed the story.
EVENT DETAILS
McIvor Creek Trail parkrun
Heathcote, Victoria
Event 9 | Saturday 12 September 2026
Official event webpage:
https://www.parkrun.com.au/mcivorcreektrailheathcote/
Official Facebook page:
https://www.facebook.com/mcivorcreektrailparkrunheathcote/
WATCH THE VIDEO VERSION
YouTube:
https://youtu.be/cO_8zcvYwCA?si=gKJ_WlJa_QHKp6iv
If you enjoy 5K Yarns, please follow the podcast, leave a rating and share this episode—particularly with anyone planning to visit McIvor Creek Trail parkrun.
Every barcode has a story. The barcode is just the beginning of the story.
MUSIC ACKNOWLEDGEMENT AND DISCLOSURE
‘Titan’ by Scott Buckley — released under CC BY 4.0.
www.scottbuckley.com.au
Track information:
https://www.scottbuckley.com.au/library/titan/
Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International Licence:
https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
The music in this episode is used under the Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International Licence (CC BY 4.0). All credit goes to the original artist, Scott Buckley.
This podcast is not endorsed by, directly affiliated with or sponsored by Scott Buckley.
Great music. Great community. One incredible journey.
5K YARNS 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.
Some images and visual elements used in 5K Yarns may be AI-generated, AI-assisted, digitally altered, or created for illustrative and graphical purposes. Such imagery should not be considered an accurate depiction of actual people, places, events, historical scenes, conditions, or circumstances. No claim of factual, historical, geographical, or visual accuracy is intended or implied.
Event details, course conditions, facilities and access arrangements may change. Always check the official event webpage and local event communications before travelling.

This week, 5K Yarns heads into the beautiful Bega Valley on the NSW South Coast for Bega parkrun — but as I quickly discovered, there is Moo..re to Bega than cheese.
The road to parkrunday takes me across the Snowy Mountains, through Jindabyne and the high country, before descending Brown Mountain into one of Australia’s best-known dairy regions.
But the barcode is only the beginning of the story.
We explore Bega’s history — from the Traditional Owners and the landscape that existed long before European settlement, through early exploration and pastoral settlement, the development of timber and agriculture, and the establishment of the Bega Co-operative Creamery in 1899.
Then, of course, it’s time for Bega parkrun Event #497.
▶️ WATCH & LISTEN TO THIS EPISODE
🎥 YouTube: https://youtu.be/rXaMArHkun8?si=B5SiPbrm7Ax-JclO
🏃 THE PARKRUN
Bega parkrun is an out-and-back course using predominantly gravel and concrete paths, with approximately 26 metres of elevation gain.
The paths are generally wide, providing plenty of room for runners and walkers, while much of the course offers welcome shade. There are some areas that could hold water following rain, so while road shoes should be suitable in dry conditions, I’d lean towards a hybrid shoe after wet weather.
And as always, the event itself is only part of the story.
We meet the people behind the barcode, hear a few stories along the way and find out what makes Bega parkrun part of its local community.
☕ THE POST-PARKRUN FEED
After parkrun, it’s into Bega for breakfast at Cafe Evolve.
My order:
🍳 Scrambled eggs on sourdough with extra bacon and mushrooms — 8/10
☕ Dirty Chai — 7/10
Very enjoyable, with quick service despite the café being extremely busy.
🔗 BEGA PARKRUN
Official Bega parkrun webpage:
https://www.parkrun.com.au/bega/
Facebook:
https://www.facebook.com/begaparkrun/
☕ CAFE EVOLVE — BEGA
210 Carp Street, Bega NSW 2550
Website:
https://cafeevolve.com.au/
🎵 MUSIC ACKNOWLEDGEMENT
Music featured in this episode:
“Beautiful Oblivion” — Scott Buckley
A meditative neoclassical work by composer Scott Buckley, used under the Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International Licence (CC BY 4.0).
Official track/download page:
https://www.scottbuckley.com.au/library/beautiful-oblivion/
Scott Buckley — Official Website:
https://www.scottbuckley.com.au/
Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International Licence:
https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Music attribution:
“Beautiful Oblivion” by Scott Buckley
Released under Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International (CC BY 4.0).
Music remains the property of its respective creator. Use in this production does not imply endorsement of 5K Yarns, BILLO or ASLOTH Productions by Scott Buckley.
⚠️ DISCLAIMER
5K Yarns on the Road to parkrunday with BILLO is an independent production created for entertainment, storytelling and community purposes.
This production is not affiliated with, endorsed by, sponsored by or officially associated with parkrun Global Limited, parkrun Australia or Bega parkrun.
Any opinions, ratings, reviews and commentary expressed are my own and are based on my personal experience at the time of filming.
Event information may change, so always check the official parkrun event page before travelling.
🎙️ 5K YARNS ON THE ROAD TO PARKRUNDAY WITH BILLO
Every place has a story.
Every parkrun has a community.
And every barcode has a story behind it.
The barcode is just the beginning of the story.
An ASLOTH PRODUCTIONS production.
#5KYarns #Bega #parkrun #BILLO #MooReThanCheese

THE TAIL WALKING LEGENDS — EPISODE 3 | PART 1 OF 2 THE UNWRITTEN RULES OF PARKRUN We told you it was too big for one episode… BILLO, Sir KOPPO, Tyson “The Mayor of Tuggeranong” Flynn and Paul “The Viking” Whelan are back to finish Episode 3 of The Tail Walking Legends. In Part 2 of 2, we continue our discussion about the unwritten rules of parkrun, the traditions and quirks that make Saturday mornings what they are — plus plenty of stories, opinions and laughs from four parkrun tragics. And then we ask the important question nobody knew needed answering… 🃏 WHAT IF PARKRUN WAS UNO? Skip. Reverse. Draw Four. Change colour. Welcome to PARKRUNDAY UNO — our completely unofficial and slightly ridiculous attempt to combine parkrun with the classic card game. Between the four Legends: 🏃 1,425 parkruns @ 759 locations 🦺 799 volunteer credits @ 413 locations 🏃 PARKRUNS MENTIONED Dolls Point https://www.parkrun.com.au/dollspoint/ https://www.facebook.com/dollspointparkrun/ Reddall Reserve https://www.parkrun.com.au/reddallreserve/ https://www.facebook.com/reddallreserveparkrun/ Australian Botanic Garden Mount Annan https://www.parkrun.com.au/aubotanicgardenmountannan/ https://www.facebook.com/aubotanicgardenmountannanparkrun/ East Richmond https://www.parkrun.com.au/eastrichmond/ https://www.facebook.com/eastrichmondparkrun/ Nepean River https://www.parkrun.com.au/nepeanriver/ https://www.facebook.com/nepeanriverparkrun/ Curl Curl https://www.parkrun.com.au/curlcurl/ https://www.facebook.com/curlcurlparkrun/ Auburn Botanic Gardens https://www.parkrun.com.au/auburnbotanicgardens/ https://www.facebook.com/auburnbotanicgardensparkrun/ Rooty Hill https://www.parkrun.com.au/rootyhill/ https://www.facebook.com/rootyhillparkrun/ Elara Riparian Parklands https://www.parkrun.com.au/elarariparianparklands/ https://www.facebook.com/elarariparianparkrun/ Wagga https://www.parkrun.com.au/wagga/ https://www.facebook.com/waggaparkrun/ Karoola Park https://www.parkrun.com.au/karoolapark/ https://www.facebook.com/karoolaparkparkrun/ Tuggeranong https://www.parkrun.com.au/tuggeranong/ https://www.facebook.com/tuggeranongparkrun/ Cameron Park, Wellington https://www.parkrun.com.au/cameronparkwellington/ https://www.facebook.com/cameronparkwellingtonparkrun/ Werribee Park Mansion https://www.parkrun.com.au/werribeeparkmansion/ https://www.facebook.com/werribeeparkmansionparkrun/ Cruickshank Park https://www.parkrun.com.au/cruickshankpark/ https://www.facebook.com/cruickshankparkparkrun/ Prince of Wales https://www.parkrun.com.au/princeofwales/ https://www.facebook.com/princeofwalesparkrun/ Warringal Parklands https://www.parkrun.com.au/warringalparklands/ https://www.facebook.com/warringalparklandsparkrun/ 💚 JUNIOR PARKRUN FUNDRAISER Help establish another junior parkrun for children aged 4–14. Donate: https://asf.org.au/campaigns/parkrun/junior-parkrun ⚔️ THE VIKING — 42KM DUSK TO DAWN On 21 November 2026, Paul “The Viking” Whelan takes on UNICEF Australia’s 42km Dusk to Dawn — Sydney’s Longest Night Walk. Support The Viking: https://dusktodawn.unicef.org.au/fundraisers/vikingwhelan/dusk-to-dawn-2026 42km. One warrior. One mission. 🎧 WATCH / LISTEN PART 1: [ADD URL] YouTube: [ADD URL] Spotify: [ADD URL] Apple Podcasts: [ADD URL] Podbean: [ADD URL] 💬 JOIN THE CONVERSATION What’s an unwritten rule of parkrun everyone should know? Should parkrun have more traditions, or should every event remain unique? And what’s the funniest thing you’ve ever seen at parkrun? Tell us what you think. ⚠️ DISCLAIMER The Tail Walking Legends is independently produced and is not endorsed by or affiliated with parkrun, UNICEF Australia, the Australian Sports Foundation or individual parkrun events. Opinions are those of the presenters. “Unwritten rules” and “parkrunday UNO” are for entertainment and discussion and are not official parkrun rules. The Tail Walking Legends — An ASLOTH Production #TheTailWalkingLegends #Episode3 #Part2 #parkrun #parkrunAustralia #parkrunPodcast #parkrunTourism #parkrunday #ParkrunUNO #5KYarns #BILLO #TheViking #JuniorParkrun #UNICEF

THE TAIL WALKING LEGENDS — EPISODE 3 | PART 2 OF 2 THE UNWRITTEN RULES OF PARKRUN It was just too big… so we split it in two! BILLO, Sir KOPPO, Tyson “The Mayor of Tuggeranong” Flynn and Paul “The Viking” Whelan are back for Episode 3 of The Tail Walking Legends. In Part 1 of 2, the Legends catch up on where they’ve been, talk parkrun adventures and tackle the unwritten rules of parkrun — etiquette, traditions and those little things you learn after enough Saturday mornings. Should parkrun have more traditions, or should every event remain completely unique? What should every parkrunner know without needing to be told? Between the four Legends: 🏃 1,425 parkruns @ 759 locations 🦺 799 volunteer credits @ 413 locations And this is only Part 1… 🏃 PARKRUNS MENTIONED Dolls Point https://www.parkrun.com.au/dollspoint/ https://www.facebook.com/dollspointparkrun/ Reddall Reserve https://www.parkrun.com.au/reddallreserve/ https://www.facebook.com/reddallreserveparkrun/ Australian Botanic Garden Mount Annan https://www.parkrun.com.au/aubotanicgardenmountannan/ https://www.facebook.com/aubotanicgardenmountannanparkrun/ East Richmond https://www.parkrun.com.au/eastrichmond/ https://www.facebook.com/eastrichmondparkrun/ Nepean River https://www.parkrun.com.au/nepeanriver/ https://www.facebook.com/nepeanriverparkrun/ Curl Curl https://www.parkrun.com.au/curlcurl/ https://www.facebook.com/curlcurlparkrun/ Auburn Botanic Gardens https://www.parkrun.com.au/auburnbotanicgardens/ https://www.facebook.com/auburnbotanicgardensparkrun/ Rooty Hill https://www.parkrun.com.au/rootyhill/ https://www.facebook.com/rootyhillparkrun/ Elara Riparian Parklands https://www.parkrun.com.au/elarariparianparklands/ https://www.facebook.com/elarariparianparkrun/ Wagga https://www.parkrun.com.au/wagga/ https://www.facebook.com/waggaparkrun/ Karoola Park https://www.parkrun.com.au/karoolapark/ https://www.facebook.com/karoolaparkparkrun/ Tuggeranong https://www.parkrun.com.au/tuggeranong/ https://www.facebook.com/tuggeranongparkrun/ Cameron Park, Wellington https://www.parkrun.com.au/cameronparkwellington/ https://www.facebook.com/cameronparkwellingtonparkrun/ Werribee Park Mansion https://www.parkrun.com.au/werribeeparkmansion/ https://www.facebook.com/werribeeparkmansionparkrun/ Cruickshank Park https://www.parkrun.com.au/cruickshankpark/ https://www.facebook.com/cruickshankparkparkrun/ Prince of Wales https://www.parkrun.com.au/princeofwales/ https://www.facebook.com/princeofwalesparkrun/ Warringal Parklands https://www.parkrun.com.au/warringalparklands/ https://www.facebook.com/warringalparklandsparkrun/ 💚 JUNIOR PARKRUN FUNDRAISER Help establish another junior parkrun for children aged 4–14. Donate: https://asf.org.au/campaigns/parkrun/junior-parkrun ⚔️ THE VIKING — 42KM DUSK TO DAWN On 21 November 2026, Paul “The Viking” Whelan takes on UNICEF Australia’s 42km Dusk to Dawn — Sydney’s Longest Night Walk. Support The Viking: https://dusktodawn.unicef.org.au/fundraisers/vikingwhelan/dusk-to-dawn-2026 42km. One warrior. One mission. 🎧 WATCH / LISTEN PART 2: [ADD URL] YouTube: [ADD URL] Spotify: [ADD URL] Apple Podcasts: [ADD URL] Podbean: [ADD URL] ⚠️ DISCLAIMER The Tail Walking Legends is independently produced and is not endorsed by or affiliated with parkrun, UNICEF Australia, the Australian Sports Foundation or individual parkrun events. Opinions are those of the presenters. References to “unwritten rules” are for entertainment and discussion and are not official parkrun rules. The Tail Walking Legends — An ASLOTH Production #TheTailWalkingLegends #Episode3 #Part1 #parkrun #parkrunAustralia #parkrunPodcast #parkrunTourism #parkrunday #5KYarns #BILLO #TheViking #JuniorParkrun #UNICEF

🎨 EPISODE 21 — WARRINGAL PARKLANDS PARKRUN | THE HEIDELBERG MASTERS
Every barcode has a story.
This week, 5K Yarns on the Road to parkrunday with BILLO heads to Warringal Parklands parkrun in Heidelberg, Victoria — my penultimate step towards completing every current Victorian parkrun location.
But this barcode leads to a much bigger yarn.
🎨 THE HEIDELBERG MASTERS
Before Heidelberg became suburban Melbourne, this was countryside — river flats, eucalypts, open paddocks, dry summer grass and changing Australian light.
During the late 1880s, artists headed into this landscape to paint outdoors and capture Australia in a new way.
We explore the Heidelberg School — the Australian Impressionists — focusing on three giants of Australian art:
🎨 Tom Roberts
🎨 Arthur Streeton
🎨 Frederick McCubbin
Along the way we also meet Charles Conder, Jane Sutherland, Clara Southern, Jane Price, Louis Abrahams and others connected with this remarkable period of Australian art.
🏃 THE BARCODE
We visit Warringal Parklands parkrun, discover the course, meet the community and find out what makes this Heidelberg event worth adding to your parkrun tourism list.
Official event page:
https://www.parkrun.com.au/warringalparklands/
Facebook:
https://www.facebook.com/warringalparklandsparkrun/
☕ POST-PARKRUN
After parkrun we head to Cafe Scintilla in Heidelberg for breakfast, coffee and the traditional post-parkrun yarn.
Website:
https://www.cafescintilla.com.au/
Facebook:
https://www.facebook.com/cafescintilla/
🏠 BEYOND THE BARCODE
This episode also becomes personal.
My journey takes me back to West Heidelberg, where my first home was on Liberty Parade in one of the original Olympic Village houses.
My parents emigrated from the UK to Australia in 1968 as Ten Pound Poms, and I spent my Prep year at Olympic Village Primary School.
Returning decades later gave me an unexpected opportunity to reflect on where my own story began.
When Lila asked:
“Do you want a photo in front of your old school?”
My answer was:
“No, because who knows? One day I will be back to reflect once again.”
Sometimes you don’t need to close the circle.
Sometimes it’s okay to leave a little of the story unfinished.
🎨 DISCOVER THE HEIDELBERG MASTERS
Australian Impressionism — NGV
https://www.ngv.vic.gov.au/school_resource/australian-impressionism/
Tom Roberts — National Gallery of Australia
https://digital.nga.gov.au/archive/exhibition/roberts/
Arthur Streeton — National Gallery of Australia
https://nga.gov.au/exhibitions/arthur-streeton-selected-works/
Frederick McCubbin — NGV
https://www.ngv.vic.gov.au/custom/screens/josephbrown/index.php?artistid=3545&chapter=2
🎵 MUSIC ACKNOWLEDGEMENT
“Horizons” — Scott Buckley
Released under Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International (CC BY 4.0).
https://www.scottbuckley.com.au/library/horizons/
https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
🎙️ ABOUT 5K YARNS
5K Yarns isn’t simply about another 5K.
It’s about the journey, the location, the history, the people and the stories sitting behind every barcode.
The barcode is just the beginning of the story.
⚠️ DISCLAIMER
5K Yarns on the Road to parkrunday with BILLO is an independent production and is not affiliated with, endorsed by, sponsored by or produced by parkrun Global Limited, parkrun Australia or any individual parkrun event.
Views and opinions are those of the presenter/contributors. Event, venue, café, attraction and historical information was considered accurate at the time of production but may change.
parkrun is a registered trademark of parkrun Global Limited.

5K Yarns — Prince of Wales parkrun | Ballarat’s Gold Rush Barcode
Welcome to another episode of 5K Yarns on the Road to parkrunday with BILLO — an ASLOTH Production.
This week, we’re heading to Ballarat, Victoria, and Prince of Wales parkrun for an adventure shaped by the Victorian Gold Rush.
We experience the course, volunteers and community behind this barcode before heading Beyond the Barcode to explore Ballarat’s history — from Eureka and Sovereign Hill to Lake Wendouree.
We also return to Kryal Castle, revisiting a childhood experience from the 1970s, before finishing with the essential post-parkrun feed at IneXterior Cafe.
It’s parkrun, road trips, history, tourism and a few yarns along the way.
The barcode is just the beginning of the story.
⸻
🎥 WATCH THE VIDEO
📺 YouTube:
https://youtu.be/PKbixgToDTA?si=_e0Wgauv4RIIpVmH
⸻
🏃 PRINCE OF WALES PARKRUN
Official event page:
https://www.parkrun.com.au/princeofwales/
Facebook:
https://www.facebook.com/princeofwalesparkrun/
⸻
🏰 KRYAL CASTLE
Website:
https://www.kryalcastle.com.au/
Facebook:
https://www.facebook.com/kryalcastle/
⸻
☕ INEXTERIOR CAFE
Website:
https://www.inexteriorballarat.com.au/
Facebook:
https://www.facebook.com/inexteriorballarat/
⸻
⛏️ EXPLORE BALLARAT
Sovereign Hill
https://www.sovereignhill.com.au/
Eureka Centre Ballarat
https://eurekacentreballarat.com.au/
Lake Wendouree
https://www.visitballarat.com.au/explore/lake-wendouree/
⸻
🎵 MUSIC
“Call To Adventure” — Scott Buckley
‘Call To Adventure’ by Scott Buckley - released under CC-BY 4.0. www.scottbuckley.com.au
Track:
https://www.scottbuckley.com.au/library/call-to-adventure/
Music Library:
https://www.scottbuckley.com.au/library/
CC BY 4.0 Licence:
https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
⸻
⚠️ 5K YARNS DISCLAIMER
5K Yarns on the Road to parkrunday with BILLO is an independent production and is not affiliated with, endorsed by, sponsored by or produced by parkrun Global Limited or parkrun Australia.
Opinions and reviews are those of BILLO and/or contributors and reflect our experiences at the time of visiting.
Event, course, café, accommodation, attraction, price and travel information may change. Always confirm current details directly with the relevant event or provider.
Third-party trademarks and business names remain the property of their respective owners. Their inclusion does not imply sponsorship or endorsement.
parkrun is a registered trademark of parkrun Global Limited.
⸻
🎙️ 5K YARNS
We travel to parkrun locations, meet the people behind the barcode and discover the history, communities and stories that make each destination different.
Every barcode has a story.
The barcode is just the beginning of the story.
An ASLOTH Production
#5KYarns #parkrun #PrinceOfWalesparkrun #Ballarat #parkrunAustralia #parkrunTourism #BILLO #VictorianGoldRush #EurekaStockade #SovereignHill #KryalCastle #LakeWendouree #VisitBallarat #parkrunPodcast #ASLOTHProductions

Event #28 | Saturday 15 August 2026 | Yarraville, Victoria
This week, 5K Yarns on the Road to parkrunday with BILLO heads into Melbourne’s inner west for Cruickshank Park parkrun.
The journey begins with another 4:00am departure from Wodonga and a drive of approximately 330 kilometres in search of another barcode—and another story.
Before arriving, I expected Cruickshank Park to carry the obvious scars of Yarraville’s industrial past. Instead, I discovered a surprisingly green and peaceful corridor following Stony Creek, surrounded by established trees, open parkland, local birdlife and an incredibly welcoming community.
Volunteering as Tail Walker gave me the opportunity to experience the complete three-lap course, including its combination of concrete paths, compact gravel and grass, multiple bridge crossings and one short two-way section.
In this episode:
🏭 We uncover the industrial and bluestone history of Yarraville
🚙 Explore the journey from Wodonga and parking around Cruickshank Park
🏃 Break down the three-lap course and what visitors should expect
🙌 Celebrate the volunteers behind Event #28
🏅 Review the results from 105 finishers and 12 volunteers
☕ Visit Masak Masak for post-parkrun coffee and Singapore chilli eggs
🏨 Introduce accommodation guidance for visiting parkrun tourists
🗺️ Explore other things to see around Yarraville and Melbourne’s inner west
💭 Reflect on why arriving without expectations can sometimes deliver the best experiences
A huge thank you to the Cruickshank Park parkrun volunteer team for making me feel welcome and allowing me to help bring the field home.
The barcode is just the beginning of the story.
🎥 WATCH THE FULL YOUTUBE VERSION
https://youtu.be/-c4KhB1bYqs?si=w_b0sW6jGmP6NJJU
🔗 OFFICIAL EVENT LINKS
Cruickshank Park parkrun official webpage:
https://www.parkrun.com.au/cruickshankpark/
Cruickshank Park parkrun official Facebook page:
https://www.facebook.com/cruickshankparkparkrun/
🎵 MUSIC ACKNOWLEDGEMENT
“Signal to Noise” — Scott Buckley
https://www.scottbuckley.com.au/library/signal-to-noise/
Music by Scott Buckley, released under Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International:
https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
⚠️ DISCLAIMER
5K Yarns on the Road to parkrunday with BILLO is independently produced by ASLOTH PRODUCTIONS. It is not produced by, endorsed by, sponsored by or officially affiliated with parkrun Global Limited, parkrun Australia or Cruickshank Park parkrun.
All opinions, observations and experiences expressed are my own and reflect my visit on 15 August 2026. Event details, course conditions, access arrangements and facilities may change, so always consult the official event channels before visiting.
🎙️ 5K Yarns on the Road to parkrunday with BILLO
🏃‍♂️ BILLO
The barcode is just the beginning of the story.

🏰 Werribee Park Mansion parkrun | Event #28 | Saturday 8 August 2026
This week, 5K Yarns on the Road to parkrunday with BILLO takes us somewhere I’ve wanted to experience for a very long time — Werribee Park Mansion parkrun.
I knew about this event before it paused in 2022 following damage to the bridge. I’d heard the stories, seen the photos and had plenty of FOMO about never making it there. Then the event disappeared from the parkrun calendar and, for a while, it looked like this might be one Victorian parkrun I’d simply missed.
But in July 2026, Werribee Park Mansion parkrun returned.
So it was a 4:00am departure from Wodonga, around 345km on the road and another location waiting to be ticked off on my journey towards becoming a Victorian parkrun Statesman.
And this is certainly no ordinary parkrun location.
The 5K begins near the magnificent Werribee Park Mansion before taking us through the estate gardens, along mixed gravel trails and towards the Werribee River. There’s around 40 metres of elevation gain, a climb onto the ridge, a timber boardwalk descent and another climb towards the rear of the estate.
But this episode goes well beyond the course.
📖 We’re Running Through History.
I explore the story of Werribee Park Mansion and the two brothers whose names are forever connected with the estate — Thomas Chirnside and Andrew Spencer Chirnside — and discover some of the history surrounding the remarkable place we get to run, jog and walk through on a Saturday morning.
🙌 EVENT #28
There were 101 participants this week, along with two milestones worth celebrating.
💯 Event Director David Aquilina reached 100 volunteer credits — a particularly fitting achievement for someone who has played such an important role in bringing Werribee Park Mansion parkrun back.
4️⃣0️⃣0️⃣ Robert Mills celebrated his enormous 400th parkrun, alongside an incredible 253 volunteer credits — and added another volunteer credit on the day.
Then, after the barcode has been scanned, there’s still one important part of the adventure remaining.
☕ Post-parkrun breakfast and coffee!
This week we head to Wyndham Cache before I wrap things up with my review and thoughts on a parkrun that was absolutely worth the wait.
🔗 Episode Links
Werribee Park Mansion parkrun
https://www.parkrun.com.au/werribeeparkmansion/
Werribee Park Mansion parkrun — Facebook
https://www.facebook.com/werribeeparkmansionparkrun/
Werribee Park Mansion — Parks Victoria
https://www.parks.vic.gov.au/places-to-see/parks/werribee-park/things-to-do/werribee-park-mansion
Parks Victoria — Facebook
https://www.facebook.com/ParksVictoria/
Wyndham Cache
https://www.wyndhamcache.com.au/
Wyndham Cache — Facebook
https://www.facebook.com/wyndhamcache/
🎵 Music Acknowledgement
“Ascension” — Scott Buckley
Music by Scott Buckley, released under Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International (CC BY 4.0).
https://www.scottbuckley.com.au/
https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
⚠️ Disclaimer
5K Yarns on the Road to parkrunday with BILLO is independently produced by ASLOTH PRODUCTIONS and is not produced by, endorsed by, sponsored by or officially affiliated with parkrun Global Limited, parkrun Australia, Parks Victoria, Werribee Park Mansion or Wyndham Cache.
All opinions and experiences expressed are my own and reflect my visit on the day. Event details, course conditions, access arrangements and facilities may change, so always check official sources before visiting.
🎙️ 5K Yarns on the Road to parkrunday with BILLO
🏃‍♂️ BILLO
The barcode is just the beginning of the story.

🎙️ 5K Yarns on the Road to parkrunday with BILLO
This week, Lila and I headed north from Wodonga to one of Australia’s newest parkrun communities – Elara Riparian Parklands parkrun in Marsden Park, Western Sydney.
It was a 1,100km round trip for just one barcode… and we’d happily do it all again.
In this episode we uncover the fascinating story behind the name Elara Riparian Parklands, discover why Lake Melonba sounds suspiciously like 🌊🍈🐑, explore this unique double-loop course, meet one of the warmest volunteer teams we’ve encountered, and finish the morning with a fantastic brunch at Leaf Café & Co.
In this episode
* 🏃 The 554km Friday road trip from Wodonga
* 🌙 The story behind Elara – one of Jupiter’s moons
* 🌿 What “Riparian” actually means
* 🗺️ Course overview, elevation, facilities and navigation
* ☕ Our post-parkrun café review
* 🏨 BILLO’s Motel Review – Windsor River View
* 🙋 Why volunteers remain the true heart of every parkrun
Most importantly, this episode celebrates what makes parkrun so special.
Wherever you travel, you’ll find communities of volunteers who give up their Saturday mornings simply to help complete strangers enjoy theirs.
A huge thank you to everyone at Elara Riparian Parklands parkrun for making us feel like locals from the moment we arrived.
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🎧 Listen on
* Spotify
* Apple Podcasts
* Podbean
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Useful Links
Official Elara Riparian Parklands parkrun webpage
https://www.parkrun.com.au/elarariparianparklands/
Official Elara Riparian Parklands parkrun Facebook page
https://www.facebook.com/elarariparianparkrun
Leaf Café & Co – Marsden Park
https://www.elaravillage.com.au/store/leaf-cafe/
If you enjoy the episode, please consider following the podcast, leaving a rating or review, and sharing it with another parkrunner.
Because every barcode has a story… and the barcode is just the beginning of the story.
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Tags
#5KYarns #OnTheRoadToParkrunday #BILLO #Parkrun #ParkrunAustralia #ParkrunTourism #ParkrunTourist #BarcodeCommunity #LoveParkrun #WalkJogRun #Volunteer #ParkrunVolunteers #ElaraRiparianParklands #ElaraRiparianParklandsParkrun #MarsdenPark #WesternSydney #LakeMelonba #Riparian #JupitersMoon #NSWParkrun #SydneyParkrun #LeafCafeAndCo #CoffeeAfterParkrun #RunningCommunity #WalkingCommunity #SaturdayMorning #EveryBarcodeHasAStory #TheBarcodeIsJustTheBeginningOfTheStory