Running with Nedd: A morning of kindness and community

By Chase Christensen 

Everyday runners were star struck by the appearance of international superstar Nedd Brockmann as about 300 people gathered at the Caboolture – Wamuran Rail Trail on the morning of Wednesday, October 22.  

Brockmann paired up with the local I Am Kind Movement group, led by high school teachers Ellise Wust and Emily Lovell. The event drew participants of all ages, from seasoned runners to families with young children, each eager to share the experience of running alongside one of Australia’s most inspiring figures. 

Nedd Brockmann is an Australian runner and electrician known for his incredible charity run in 2022, from Cottesloe Beach in Perth to Bondi Beach in Sydney (nearly 4000 kilometres in just 46 days), raising money and awareness for homelessness, collecting more than $2 million for charity. His story continues to motivate Australians to take on challenges for a greater purpose, showing that determination and compassion can create real change. 

Brockmann’s journey inspired thousands of Australians with his positive attitude and message to “get comfortable being uncomfortable”. This quote relates to Nedd’s Uncomfortable Challenge, a fundraiser held October 20–29 in support of We Are Mobilise, a charity aiming to solve homelessness across Australia. 

Ellise, Emily and the star of the show, Brockmann, delivered day three of Nedd’s Uncomfortable Challenge by tasking individuals to run or walk 2.5km up and back along the rail trail, resulting in a 5km journey. For many, the morning represented far more than just exercise. It was an opportunity to give back and be part of something meaningful. 

Brockmann made a top-tier effort to strike up conversations with attendees making an early start arriving about 5.45am. Laughter and excitement filled the air as runners prepared to take off. Ellise and Emily addressed the crowd before leading the journey. Whilst Brockmann (on a pushbike) encouraged the large pack of runners. Once the 5km quest was complete, runners were met with complimentary protein drinks and a sense of accomplishment that extended well beyond the finish line. 

The community feel was impeccable. Running for homelessness prevention was the root purpose of the event, but being surrounded by an inspiring group of people and having world-renowned athlete Brockmann in attendance was the ultimate bonus. The collaboration demonstrated how acts of kindness, both large and small, can ripple through a community and motivate others to do the same. 

The I Am Kind Movement leaders would have to blink twice, from a small idea in 2023, with the purpose of spreading simple kindness in everyday life, to running with a sporting legend. The growth of the initiative has been unbelievable in such a short period of time. 

The event proved that kindness and community spirit can achieve remarkable things. What began as a small local initiative has evolved into a movement that unites people through generosity and shared purpose. With Brockmann’s involvement bringing extra inspiration, the morning on the rail trail became more than a run - it became a celebration of compassion, resilience and the power of human connection.