One of the more unique running events around the country continues in 2026 with the return of Sweat vs Steam.
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The fun run not only showcases the historic Port of Echuca and surrounds, but sees competitors in the 5km, 10km or kids fun run battling to beat one of the town’s iconic paddlesteamers to the line.
The river vessel completes its own course, looking to provide a winnable but competitive challenge for runners.
“It's probably the only fun run in the world where you get to race against a paddle steamer, which is very unique,” event director Brady Threlfall said.
This year’s event is scheduled for Sunday, November 15, with the PS Pevensey again on hand to push competitors to their limits.
The vessel also provides a unique vantage point for family, friends and spectators to take in all the action.
Also supporting the community, the proceeds from the event are set to be directed to Echuca Regional Health for a second year.
“Echuca Regional Health are great because they allow us to access a lot of volunteers,” Threlfall said.
“We get doctors, we get nurses, we get admin staff, and they're the people that stand on the corners, pointing what direction (to go) or handing out medals at the end or filling water cups on the course.
“It makes it very easy to get volunteers and they’ve been supportive of us, and then we can put the funds back to them.”
Last year the event raised $14,335, with the ambitious target for this year set at $20,000, with hopes for 1000 entrants on course.
“We want to get a bit more on-course entertainment, get as many speakers as we can out there, potentially some dance groups and bands, just to really make it a fun run,” Threlfall said.
“Hopefully, every corner of the race there’s someone blaring music or there’s some live entertainment or anything like that, so we’re trying to get that organised at the moment.”
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