Now you may think running up and down hills is not your idea of fun. But looking at the grinning faces at the start line of the Maleny Trail parkrun you will begin to ask yourself if you can have what they’re having.

An international phenomenon, “parkruns” are free, timed, weekly 5km runs that enhance communities across the globe. You can run, jog or walk. The ethos is simple: to make the world a healthier, happier place.

“And it certainly does that,” said Maleny Trail parkrun event director Joanne Turner.

“Maleny is one of the newest members of the parkrun family on the Sunshine Coast, and when we say family, we mean it. The run is like an umbrella that instantly connects people.”

Around the world parkrunners meet every Saturday, rain, hail or shine. “It’s a fantastic way to see new places ... lace up your runners and find the nearest parkrun. You get to meet the locals and gain an insider’s view of a place. The parkrun family really look after each other, even if you’ve never met.”

Maleny Trail parkrun might not be flat, but it is certainly one of the looks alone is not the most important factor to Joanne.

“I would love our Maleny Trail to be known for being one of the friendliest parkruns around,” she said. 

“We are so lucky to be able to showcase our beautiful little town, to enhance our community and local businesses and to be able to offer a free, friendly healthy activity for local and visiting families.

“It’s such a fantastic opportunity for us, I absolutely love what each unique parkrun brings to its equally unique community.”

And if the lure of puffing over rolling hills and through picturesque forest trails isn’t enough, the town boasts a healthy platypus population just off the trail. 

You can even sip excellent coffee and watch them frolic in the Obi after your run.

• Maleny Trail parkrun takes place at Maleny Trail, Parklands Drive via Porters Lane. It’s 6.45 for a 7am start each Saturday.

https://www.parkrun.com.au/malenytrail/