The 5 km course was dry, and the shorter days heading toward the June solstice made for a cooler experience. So much so, that there were 19 personal best times, which is a great achievement for all those involved.

There were also 21 first-timers, of varying ages and with various reasons for coming along and participating.

Some of the new runners/walkers were from the local area, which is great. Others were from Bathurst, Curl Curl, Johannesburg, Albury, Maitland and Canberra.

A special mention of Len Hogg and his fearless, barefooted volunteer guide Bede Webster. Len is visually impaired. He has managed to clock up five runs from 189 in Batemans Bay and relies on a volunteer to be able to run. 

The volunteers are friendly and keen to make the experience more enjoyable for all runners and walkers.

It is a wonderful way to give back to the community and mentor the younger competitors. They also get the opportunity to know how it feels to give their time to others.

Any local businesses interested in volunteering could use it as a team building exercise.

Join the Parkrun community at Rotary Park near the Marina, Batemans Bay, on Saturday mornings at 7.50am for an 8am start. Simply register online at www.parkrun.com.au and print off a barcode which you must bring each week.