Independently Owned, Locally Grown, Community Loved
Nedd Brockmann and the Symington Family post run. Photo credit: Zach Houtenville.
Young Australian of the Year Nedd Brockmann swapped record-breaking runs for a community jog down by the marina last week, encouraging locals to take the first step towards their goals.
The run formed part of the CommBank Tour, which is travelling through regional Australia to promote financial wellbeing, scam awareness and community connection.
“I think connecting with any community is important, but obviously especially for regional and more remote communities,” Nedd said.
“I’m fortunate to be supported by CommBank and then support what they want to do is get around, help with scam safety, help with financial fitness and I'm all about it.”
Before becoming one of Australia's most recognisable endurance athletes, Nedd grew up in the regional New South Wales town of Forbes, where he worked as an electrician before taking on the challenge that would change his life.
In 2022, Brockmann captured the nation's attention by running nearly 4,000 kilometres across Australia in just 47 days to raise money for homelessness.
His determination and resilience earned him widespread recognition, including being named Young Australian of the Year in 2026, with his message of discipline, community and taking the first step continuing to inspire people across the country.
Airlie Beach was the sixth stop on the CommBank Tour, with Nedd leading locals and tourists on a 6km run along the foreshore.
“It's been really cool too, especially because the big cities get all the attention and get all the help,” Nedd said.
One of the biggest hurdles for many people, according to Brockmann, is simply getting started, but he believes consistency is far more important than motivation.
Drawing parallels between running and everyday life, he said both have their highs and lows, and learning not to let emotions dictate your actions is key.
"Sometimes it's hard, sometimes it's easy, it's just about being level through it all," he said.
"When motivation's there, that's great, but when motivation's not there it doesn't really matter because we're getting into it."
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