Independently Owned, Locally Grown, Community Loved
Tim accepting the 2026 Outstanding Community Impact Alumnus award Photos supplied: Tim Oberg
Tim Oberg’s years of bringing people together through running have earned him recognition from his alma mater, with QUT naming him its 2026 Outstanding Community Impact Alumnus.
Oberg graduated from Queensland University of Technology in 2000.
26 years later, he’s been honoured with an award that recognises graduates whose leadership and service have made a lasting difference in their communities, whether locally, nationally or overseas.
“To be recognised by the university where my professional journey began more than 25 years ago is incredibly special,” Tim said.
“And to receive this honour in such an esteemed company, alongside fellow alumni doing extraordinary things, made it even more memorable.”
Tim joins a distinguished list of QUT honourees, including 2025 winners Louise Allen for her humanitarian advocacy and Dr Bianca Beetson for her work in First Nations art and culture, as well as fellow 2026 recipient and Beyond DV founder Carolyn Robinson who was honoured for supporting women and children recovering from domestic and family violence.
Tim’s award recognises his work to give people more opportunities to get active and connect with others.
Tim established parkrun Australia in 2011, giving people a free community walk or run together each week, with volunteers now running events in communities across the country.
He has also helped primary school students get moving before class through RAD Run Club, a free program that encourages kids to build an active habit by earning house points and badges each time they walk or run.
Now, his work with the Healthier Kids Project goes beyond physical activity, with the project also focusing on healthy eating, emotional wellbeing and sleep.
All four of Oberg’s children were there to see him receive the award, and his youngest, one-year-old Frankie, joined him on stage.
“I'm not sure she understood the occasion, but it's a moment I'll treasure forever,” Tim said.
He shared the recognition with those he had worked alongside and dedicated the award to his wife, Nicci, thanking her for continuous belief in him when he doubted himself, while also acknowledging the sacrifices they had made along the way.
“So while my name might be engraved on this award, it belongs to both of us,” Tim said.
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