Neil Hawkins Park in Joondalup is one of Perth's best-kept running secrets. The lake-side setting in Perth's northern suburbs provides a genuinely scenic backdrop for a running event, and the West Australian Marathon Club — one of Australia's most active running clubs — runs the Joondalup Festival like the well-oiled machine their events consistently are. For Perth runners north of the river, this is a calendar staple.
The course loops around Neil Hawkins Park and the surrounding streets of Joondalup's lakeside precinct. The terrain is flat, the courses are World Athletics certified, and the May timing means cool, pleasant conditions — typically 8–16°C at start time with low humidity. Online registrations close on Thursday 14 May at 12pm, or when the event sells out.
Half Marathon (21.1km), 10km, and 5km. The event is particularly popular for runners targeting a half marathon PB on the flat, fast course, and the WAMC's commitment to accurate timing and course measurement gives competitive runners confidence in their results.
The West Australian Marathon Club organises a calendar of running events across Perth throughout the year. Their events are known for excellent organisation, accurate timing, and a strong community feel. Members get priority entry and reduced fees, making a WAMC membership genuinely worthwhile if you're a regular Perth runner.
Joondalup is about 25km north of Perth CBD, connected by train on the Joondalup line from Perth Station. Neil Hawkins Park is a short walk from Joondalup Train Station. Parking is also available around the park for those driving.
