Frequently Asked Questions
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Check out our FAQs below where we've covered everything you need to know about the big day!
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FAQs about registering
When do registrations open/close?
| OPEN | CLOSE | |
|---|---|---|
| Early bird pricing | Thurs 1 Feb | Thurs 29 Feb, 11.59pm |
| General pricing | Fri 1 Mar | Fri 17 May, 11.59pm |
Can I register in a branch?
Unfortunately you cannot enter at HBF branches, however should you experience any difficulty entering online, our events team is able to assist you and contactable at 08 6333 0330 or enquiry@hbfrun.com.au. You can register online until 11.59pm on Friday 17 May.
What does my entry fee cover?
Your entry fee goes towards the costs associated with organising the event and keeping you safe. This includes closing roads and managing traffic around the city, providing you with access to first aid and medical officers across all three distances and the finish line. An event of this size also works with police and other emergency services in the lead-up and on the day all of which are there to look out for you.
The entry fee also helps to cover the cost of items like your HBF Run t-shirt, timing, providing you with free public transport until 3 pm on event day, your finisher medal, and other items at the finish line like free fruit and massages.
Your entry fees don’t go directly to the beneficiaries associated with the event and the millions that have been raised over the past 14 years have come from participants fundraising for a cause close to their hearts.
You can fundraise or make a donation to one of our feature charities or support a charity of your choice – follow the prompts during registration to do so.
Do children in prams have to be registered?
Children being pushed in prams don’t need to be registered. However, if you do register your child who will be pushed in a pram, they’ll receive participant benefits like a free event t-shirt and a medal at the finish line – it’s up to you, but the baby event t-shirts are extra cute!
For safety reasons, please note that participants pushing prams must select the Families & Prams category for both the 4km and 12km distances.
Can I register via post?
No, we do not have the option to enter via post. But if you live regionally, you can register online until 11.59pm on Friday 17 May. If you don’t have access to the internet you can contact our Event Team on 08 6333 0330 or email enquiry@hbfrun.com.au.
FAQs about distances
What do "distances", "courses" and "start groups mean?"
Courses refer to the three distances and the route that each takes. There are three to choose from – the Brooks Half Marathon, Specsavers 12km, and the CommBank 4km.
Start Groups are assigned depending on the time you expect to take to complete the course. We encourage you to select a finish time so you are surrounded by people running or walking at a similar pace to you. Some people are running to smash their PB and run a 14-minute 4km, others are walking with prams and taking it easy. By selecting the correct wave, it helps us keep you safe and moving at your goal pace.
You must start in your assigned group. If you start in a group ahead of yours, your timing device will not activate and your time will not be recorded. Event Officials may also instruct you to move back to the appropriate group.
Which start group should I choose?
Brooks Half Marathon
We have two start groups for the Brooks Half Marathon. We do ask that you self-seed at the start line, positioning yourself amongst the Brooks Pacers. If you are looking to finish between 1-2 hours, we recommend starting in the first wave at 6.45am. For more than 2 hours, we recommend starting in the 2nd wave, starting 10 minutes later.
If you haven’t done this distance before, start out by calculating your goal finish time based on your average pace per kilometre. Hot tip: Use Google ‘pace calculator’ to work out your goal pace per kilometre and finish time.
For the other two distances, please see below – choose your group based on how long you estimate it’ll take you to finish your distance on the day.
Specsavers 12km
| Category | Time |
|---|---|
| Seeded Runners | Under 45 min |
| A | 50 min - 1 hr 10 min |
| B | 1 hr 10 min - 1 hr 25 min |
| C | 1 hr 25 min - 1 hr 40 min |
| D - Walkers | 1 hr 40 min - 2 hr 10 min |
| E - Families & Prams | 2 hr 10 min - 2hrs 20 min |
CommBank 4km
| Category | Time |
|---|---|
| A | Under 25 min |
| B | 25 min - 35 min |
| C | 35 min - 45 min |
| D - Walkers | 45 min - 55 min |
| E - Families & Prams | Over 55 min |
Are there any rules for young children?
We know that many families will want to walk (or run) the course together as part of a special day out – that’s one of things that makes it such a fun day!
Please be mindful that children who intend on walking or running the course must be registered and wearing a participant bib. They also need to be supervised by a parent or guardian at all times.
In a large crowd it can be easy to become separated from children. Please ensure you provide your child with a contact number to reach you on should they become separated and if appropriate plan for a meeting point at the finish.
Check out the A-Z meeting area just outside the medal collection at the finish line.
Can I walk the course?
Absolutely – you’re welcome to walk the 12km or 4km. Just make sure you select the correct category when you enter. We have dedicated waves for walkers, families and prams so that you can take your time and enjoy the atmosphere without too many serious runners.
The Brooks Half Marathon can only be completed by runners or joggers as there are course cut off times due to road closures.
Please also note that due to safety regulations, you’re unable to take part in any of the events on a bicycle, roller-blades or scooter.
Is running through the tunnel bad for my health?
No, it’s not – it’s a favourite part of the course for many of our participants. Whilst it is a little warm, it’s adequately ventilated and has lighting all the way through. The tunnel will be closed to traffic well before the event commences to ensure that all car emissions have cleared.
FAQs about Pack Collection
What is Pack Collection?
Pack Collection is where you can collect your participant pack from which includes your t-shirt and race bib.
You will also be able to:
- Submit a late entry
- Change your distance
- Drop your bag for transport to the finish line
- Speak to our event team if you have any queries about the event or volunteering
When and where will participant packs be available to collect?
HBF Stadium, Main arena, 100 Stephenson Ave, Mount Claremont
General Pack Collection
Thursday - 16 May - 4.00pm - 7.00pm
Friday - 17 May - 8.00am - 7.00pm
Saturday - 18 May - 8.00am - 1.00pm
You will be unable to collect your pack on event day, if you are unable to attend the above pack collection dates, we recommend opting for postage.
FAQs about event day - Sunday 19 May
What time should I arrive at the start line on event day?
It’s best if you arrive at least 45 minutes before the start of the event. That way you can use any services you require (like the Bag Compound, toilets), find your starting group and have time to soak up the atmosphere of the start line.
Can I leave my personal items somewhere on event day?
You sure can – there are two options:
Delivery to finish line
Before event day, you can drop your belongings at the Pack Collection area at HBF
Stadium. We'll transport it to the finish line so it's ready for you to pick up
after the event. All bags must be collected from the finish line by noon on event
day.
Drop off closes at 1pm on Saturday 18 May.
OR
Forrest Place storage
You can drop your items at the City of Perth Bag Drop area located in Forrest Place
from 6am on event day - just remember that you'll have to collect it from here too
by noon on event day.
No bags from the Forrest Place start will be transported to the finish line.
For safety reasons, clear bags will be provided at both locations - no personal bags will be accepted. Event organisers will do everything they can to look after your belongings but accept no responsibility for their security so please leave any valuables at home.
What should I wear on event day?
Your FREE HBF Run t-shirt of course! But if you prefer you can wear your favourite running gear. Make sure your walking/running shoes fit well (and you’ve worn them before to make sure they are comfy). And bring a hat and sunscreen to slip, slop, slap.
Can I listen to music on my phone/mp3 player?
There is loads of entertainment on course, so leave the headphones at home and soak up the atmosphere!
There will be lots of important information from course marshals and police that you’ll need to be able to hear for your own safety and that of fellow participants. Also, even though the roads are closed there will be emergency service vehicles on course so you’ll need to be aware of what’s going on around you.
Will there be food and beverage outlets open before my start time?
Yes, our event partner City of Perth works with their retailers to open nice an early. More information will be available closer to the event. We do ask that you avoid using these outlets for their toilet facilities and use the event toilets as illustrated on the start map.
Is there any entertainment at the start line?
The atmosphere at the start line can only be described as electric! We’ll be getting the music pumping, having celebrity appearances and taking you through a fun but all-important, warm-up.
Will there be toilets available on course?
Yes, there are toilets scattered at various points throughout the course, however they are limited so we suggest going to the toilets located near the start line.
There are also toilets near the finish line at Gloucester Park.
Is there food for sale at the finish line?
There sure is. We’ll have a selection of food vendors in the finish area at Gloucester Park. Whatever your mood you can grab breakfast, lunch or a healthy snack.
Most vendors will have EFTPOS facilities however if you do need to cash, there are ATM facilities in the grand stand at Gloucester Park.
How can I keep warm at the start area?
It’s best to wear an old jumper or jacket that you no longer need – you can then leave it at the side of the start line and our volunteers will collect everything and donate it to Vinnies.
Make sure to remove any personal items e.g. mobile phones, wallet before you pop your jumper or jacket aside. Please don’t wear/bring any garbage bags or plastic as these can become a serious tripping hazard.
Remember once you flick it, it’s collected, along with approximately two tonnes of garments and taken straight to sorting facilities at Vinnies.
What should I eat before the race?
Where can I get a drink?
There will be drink stations serving water at the start line, throughout the course and at the finish line. On course water locations can be viewed on the course map of each distance:
What should I do with my particpant bib and timing device?
You need to wear your bib on your chest throughout the event. The timing device is attached to the back of the bib. Please see the back of your bib for more information on how to wear these correctly – we’ll be providing safety pins in your participant pack.
What is the delay in times between the start groups?
The event will have a rolling start meaning each wave and distance will follow on from the previous one. To view start times visit:
Everyone must be in place in your appropriate start group (corresponding to your bib colour) before the official start time of your event. Our volunteers will move you across the start line in order. Timing devices and mats will record the time you actually cross the start and finish lines.
What happens if I start in the wrong group?
You’ll be asked to move. Your timing device and participant bib are assigned to a starting group within each event category.
You must start in your assigned group. If you start in a group ahead of yours, your timing device will not activate and your time will not be recorded.
Can I ride my bike/skateboard/roller blade alongside my friend who is running?
No. For safety reasons the use of bicycles, skateboards, roller blades/skates or any other similar mode of transport is not permitted with the exception of wheelchairs.
What do I do with my timing device once I cross the finish line?
Once you’ve crossed the finish line you can post a selfie, write your finish time, frame it… or dispose of it. Remember if you want to get back on public transport for free, you’ll need to keep your participant bib until you get home.
How do I check my time?
Results will be available within 24 hours of crossing the timing mats at the finish line via www.hbfrun.com.au
What's on once I've crossed the finish line?
The finish line is a hub of activity so why not stick around and enjoy the fun and entertainment.
As soon as you’ve crossed the finish line you’ll enter the recovery chute and receive some water plus a piece of fruit and your all-important medal.
Then you’re free to explore - we’ll have free massages on offer, a stretch/recovery zone, food vendors, music and kids entertainment plus be sure to grab some snaps with your friends and family and tag @hbfrun and #hbfrun.
Can I purchase my refuel breakfast after I’ve registered?
Yes, you can purchase your Refuel Breakfast after registering up until Friday 12 May. Simply log into the registration portal to do so.
What does the refuel breakfast include?
- Fruit & Nut Muesli bar
- Greek Yoghurt
- Snack Cup (mixed seeds, nuts and fruit)
- Mango Juice
- Muffin
How to collect it:
The Refuel Zone is located at the finish line. Give your name at the Refuel Zone entry to collect your breakfast.
You won’t be able to purchase this on event day, it must be pre-purchased during registration for $18.50 per person.
Can I bring my dog with me?
As much as we love furry friends, for safety reasons you can't bring your dog along.
Assistance dogs are permitted.
How do I get my free Event Day Photos?
Make sure you clearly wear your participant bib on your front and smile for the cameras on event day! After the event, we’ll email you a link to view and purchase your photos by simply searching for your bib number.
While every effort is made to capture photos of everyone on event day, we may miss you if there’s a particularly large crowd.
FAQs for spectators
Where can my friends & family watch me on event day?
If you can’t persuade them to join you on course, then the best place for them to cheer you on is directly outside Gloucester Park. They’ll be able to see you as you head towards the finish line and then meet you once you’re done to join all the fun in the finish area.
Other places include:
Brooks Half Marathon
- Riverside Drive
- Plus the below 12km spectator points
Specsavers 12km
- Burswood Park
- Victoria Park
- Causeway
CommBank 4km
- St Georges Terrace and Adelaide Terrace
If you choose to spectate, please check the road closures closer to the event as many of the above locations are only accessible by foot.
Where can I meet my friends and family after the event?
Be sure to organise a meeting point well in advance as event day can be hectic. We’ve got an A-Z meet and greet area at the finish line, so stick to the letter of your surname and your friends/family can find you there.
Where do I get from the start line to the finish line?
A spectator shuttle bus service is available on event day for spectators wishing to travel to Gloucester Park to meet family and friends. Buses will depart from bus stop number 26788 outside Perth Station, please follow signage where dedicated departure points will be clearly marked.
FAQs about the fundraising
I've got a problem with my fundraising page.
Get in touch with the Grassrootz team via support@grassrootz.com
I want to start fundraising for a charity but they're not affiliated with the event?
HBF Run for a Reason allows participants to raise funds for registered charities. There are over 200 registered charities with new ones being added all the time.
If you know of a charity that is not registered please contact the charity directly. Charities can't be added by participants. Charities must contact support@grassrootz.com where more information will be given on how to get set up on Grassrootz.
FAQs for teams and corporates
Do I need to pick up my participant pack if I am a member of team?
Please confirm arrangements with your Team Captain.
Option 1 - Pick up
Your Team Captain has arranged to collect packs for everyone in the team. You'll need to
get in touch with your Team Captain directly to find out how to collect your pack from
them.
Option 2 - Self managed
If you chose ‘Pick up’ when you registered as part of the team, you will
need to visit
Pack Collection to collect your pack. Don't forget to bring your e-ticket with you,
either print a copy at home or show it to us on your phone to collect your pack. This
will be emailed to you from Monday 13 May. If you chose ‘Postage’ your pack
will be sent
to your chosen address.
Some members of our team are in different start groups, can we all start together?
No sorry, you’ll need to stick to your assigned start group to prevent any frustration from being surrounded by people going at a different speed from you.
If you start in a group ahead of the one you’re assigned to, your timing device won’t activate and your time will not be recorded. Our event officials will also instruct you to move back to the appropriate group.
Does every team member need to take part in the same distance?
No, teams can include participants across all three distances and waves.
When do registrations for Hospitality Packages open/close?
Corporate hospitality packages now available please contact enquiry@hbfrun.com.au or download here.
Team resources
Grow your team and boost your fundraising with this downloadable team toolkit.
Get run ready with HBF