2027 AKD Otway Trail Run

AKD OTWAY TRAIL RUN

Nestled in the beautiful Otway Ranges, the AKD Otway Trail Run takes you along the historic Old Beechy Rail Trail, with 16km and 6.3km options to suit a range of abilities.

Whether you're an experienced trail runner, taking on your first event, or looking for a scenic walk with family and friends, this is a welcoming community event where everyone can be part of something special.

Our non-technical trail offers a great introduction to trail running, with beautiful bushland, rolling hills and picturesque rural landscapes along the way. Best of all, your participation helps raise funds for local causes that make a difference in our community.

EVENT DETAILS

Date: Sunday, March 21st, 2027

Event Headquarters and Finish Line: Gellibrand Hall, Gellibrand, Victoria

Distances and Start Times

• 16km Trail Run (Timed): 9:00am

• 6.3km Trail Run (Timed): 10:00am

• 6.3km Walk: 9:30am

The 6.3km walk is free for children under 10, who must be accompanied by a supervising adult.

Canicross: Canicross participants start five minutes after their respective start wave and must be registered with the Canicross running club.

Awards Ceremony: Approximately 11:00am.

EXPLORE THE COURSE

16km Trail Run – Barongarook to Gellibrand

Starting at Barongarook, the 16km course takes you downhill through beautiful, cool bushland towards Birnam Station, where you'll find the first drink station at approximately the 6km mark. From there, tackle the hill, enjoy the undulating bush trail and take in the surrounding pastoral landscapes as you make your way towards Kawarren and then the finish line at Gellibrand Hall.

6.3km Walk and Trail Run – Kawarren to Gellibrand

Both the 6.3km walk and run start at Kawarren and follow the Old Beechy Rail Trail to Gellibrand Hall, where participants from both distances come together.

Course maps, elevation information and water station details are available via our website. You can also search Strava for previous years' activities to get an idea of the course profile.

GETTING THERE AND BUS TIMETABLE

As this is a point-to-point event, transport is an important part of your run-day planning.

Free event buses must be booked in advance. Please arrange your bus booking when registering or login to your Race Roster account after registering to add this option from the Store.

Morning Bus Timetable

Memorial Square (opposite the dry cleaners) – 8:00am departure

• Barongarook: 8:15am

• Kawarren: 8:40am

Gellibrand – 8:00am departure

• Barongarook: 8:20am

• Kawarren: 8:50am

Gellibrand – 9:00am departure

• Kawarren: 9:15am

Return Bus

Departing Gellibrand at approximately 11:30am, with return stops at:

• Kawarren

• Barongarook

• Memorial Square, Colac

Please plan your race-day transport carefully and allow enough time to reach your start location before your event begins.

Parking

Off-road parking is available at:

• Barongarook Hall and tennis courts (across the road - follow marshal instructions)

• Kawarren Echidna House and the tennis courts

For further directions and parking information, please visit our website.

BIB COLLECTION AND BAG DROP

Event bibs: Entries received before February 18th, 2027, will have their event bib posted. If your bib has been posted, you do not need to check in at the Information Tent before your start.

For entries received after February 18th, collect your bib from the Information Tent at your designated start area on event morning, from 8:00am.

Bag drop: Participants can leave their belongings at their respective start areas. Please label your bag clearly with your name or race number, and it will be transported to the finish line at Gellibrand Hall.

TIMING, SAFETY AND AWARDS

The timed runs are supported by event marshals and on-course first aid arrangements. Marshals can radio or call for assistance if needed, and a support cart follows the final runner.

Please note that official timing concludes at 11:30am. Due to our event permit conditions, times will not be recorded after this time.

Everyone's a Finisher

Every participant receives a finisher's medal to celebrate taking part.

Awards are presented to the 1st, 2nd and 3rd overall place-getters in the applicable timed race categories. We do not currently award age-category prizes. As a small, volunteer-run event with fundraising at its heart, we focus on celebrating participation and community alongside the achievements of our leading runners.

STAY A WHILE

We invite you to extend your stay and explore the natural beauty of the Otways. From the towering Redwoods and picturesque walking trails to local foodie delights and charming country villages, there's plenty to discover.

Unwind, explore and enjoy everything this beautiful region has to offer. Stay a while, and let the Otways weave their magic around you.

FUNDRAISING

The AKD Otway Trail Run is proudly organised by the Rotary Club of Colac Otway, with funds raised supporting the Colac Area Health Maternity Ward, Rotary youth initiatives, and local and international Rotary programs.

Every entry helps us support these important causes and make a positive difference in our community. Thank you for being part of it!

FAQ's

What is the minimum age for the 16km run?

Participants must be at least 16 years old to enter the 16km option.

Can children participate?

Yes! The 6.3km walk is free for children under 10, who must be accompanied by a supervising adult. The 6.3km run is also a great option for those looking for a shorter distance run.

Do I need to book the bus?

Yes. Event buses are free of charge but must be booked in advance.

Can I walk during the timed runs?

The event welcomes participants of varying abilities. If you intend to use walk breaks during a run, simply ensure you allow room for passing runners by moving to the left of the path.

What is the refund policy?

Refunds are no longer available directly from the event organiser. During registration, you may have the option to purchase protection through the Race Roster Enhanced Refund Protection Program. Please review the applicable terms before purchasing.

If the event must be postponed, your entry fee will be carried over to the new event date.

Can I transfer my registration to another runner?

Yes. Transfers can be completed through the Transfer option in Race Roster at no additional charge until 8:00pm on Friday, March 19th, 2027.

We look forward to welcoming you to the Otways for a wonderful day of trail running, walking, community spirit and fundraising!