Australian Red Cross Kiama Branch president Heidi Smith said the third annual Kiama Red Cross Fun Run will be bigger than ever in 2016.

This year’s event will take place on Sunday, June 12.

“There will again be the 5km and 9km events, but this year we have introduced an 18km run as well,’’ Mrs Smith said.

“So not only will there be something for the fun-runners, but there will also be a genuine test for the competitive runners out there.”

The 18km run is from Kiama and return, the 9km run or walk from Minnamurra and 5km run or walk from Bombo. All conclude at Kiama’s Surf Beach.

With the 2016 theme being ‘Set Your Pace For the Human Race’, it aims to allow runners and walkers of all levels to participate.

All proceeds from entry fees will go towards humanitarian causes supported by Red Cross.

Mrs Smith said the run was all about people having fun and enjoying themselves, while at the same time being able to help those less fortunate.

“We are asking for the general public to take part in this fun run,” Mrs Smith said.

“We are calling for serious runners to have a go.

“We want families and children to join in, and we even want owners with dogs wanting a stroll to enter. 

“There is genuinely something there for everyone in the community to take part.”

Mrs Smith said that competitor numbers had doubled in the first two years of the event, and in 2016 Red Cross Kiama is hoping for more than a thousand entrants.

Last year’s event attracted more than 320 runners and walkers, raising in excess of $6000. 

There will be a host of prizes available to those who take part.

Registration costs are as follows: 18km run - $30 per entrant; 9km/5km run or walk - adult $20, children $10, family (two adults plus children) $50.

If you are interested in volunteering for this event between 7am-10am, contact Judi O'Brien on 4237 5586. 

The event is supported by Kiama council.