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QLD athlete to run 3,800km for domestic violence support

Geraldine Grones
April 29, 2025

Former footballer Fran Hurndall will spend 34 days running across Australia to raise $1 million for domestic violence survivors.

This May, during Domestic Violence Prevention Month, Fran Hurndall will take on the challenge to run 3,800km from Western Australia’s Cottesloe Beach to Sydney to raise awareness and funds for domestic and family violence support in Australia.

As part of her Reach Out Speak Up Challenge, Hurndall is determined to raise $1 million for RizeUp Australia, a charity that provides life-saving support for families impacted by domestic violence.

While the campaign will secure Hurndall’s place in history as the first woman to run 3,800km in record time, the challenge holds far deeper significance for the professional footballer. Above all, it serves as a tribute to her sister, a domestic violence survivor, and to all Australians who have endured domestic and family violence.

“This run is about more than just breaking records – it’s about breaking the silence around domestic and family violence, which affects far too many Australians every year,” said Hurndall. “Most of us know someone who has been affected by this kind of abuse – myself included. That’s why every kilometre I run will represent the strength of those who have endured abuse, and every donation will help provide essential support to those in need.”

In Australia, two out of every five people have been exposed to domestic violence, and one in every five women has experienced family violence. In 2024, one woman died every four days on average at the hands of her intimate partner or former partner.

The challenge will begin on 1 May at Cottesloe Beach, Perth. For 34 days straight, Hurndall will run 12-14 hours a day, covering 110km daily, burning an average of 7,000 calories, and going through more than 10 pairs of shoes.

“Pushing myself to new limits has always been part of who I am, and I’m so glad that I can use that determination to help people who really need it,” Hurndall said. “I’m excited to take on the challenge and raise much-needed funds for domestic and family violence survivors.”

No stranger to setting world records and making a much-needed impact in the process, Hurndall captured national attention in 2023 when she dribbled a football nearly 1,000 kilometres from the Gold Coast to Sydney. As a professional athlete who was scouted to represent England at just 15, the 2023 campaign raised funds for Women Sport Australia and highlighted the importance of women in sport during the FIFA Women’s World Cup.

Visit www.reachoutspeakupchallenge.com.au to learn more and make a donation.

Geraldine Grones

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Geraldine is currently the Content Producer for Third Sector, an Akolade channel. Throughout her career, she has written for various industries and international audiences. Her love for writing extends beyond the corporate world, as she also works as a volunteer writer at her local church. Aside from writing, she is also fond of joining fun runs and watching musicals.