Lake Macquarie Running Festival

Lake Macquarie — Australia's largest coastal saltwater lake — makes for a pretty spectacular running backdrop. The Ramsay Health Care LakeMacRun, held every September in Warners Bay, has built a devoted following among runners from the Hunter Valley, Sydney, and beyond who appreciate a race that combines a genuinely beautiful course with a warm, community-oriented atmosphere. It's the kind of event where you'll be chatting to strangers at the start line and high-fiving total strangers at the finish. That's the LakeMacRun vibe.

The course

The event is centred on the Warners Bay foreshore, on the western shore of Lake Macquarie. The courses wind along the lake's edge with water views throughout, taking in the peaceful suburban foreshore paths and parks that make this part of the NSW coast so attractive. The terrain is predominantly flat and sealed, making it an excellent choice for first-time half marathon runners or anyone chasing a faster time in a low-key but well-organised setting.

The distances

The 2026 LakeMacRun on 13 September offers three distances: the Half Marathon (21.1km), the 10.5km Fun Run, and the 4km Kids Scamper. Whether you're running the half, doing the fun run with mates, or sending the kids off for their own race, there's something for the whole family here.

Why this race is worth the trip

Lake Macquarie is only an hour and a half north of Sydney and 30 minutes south of Newcastle, making it an accessible destination for runners from across NSW. The event attracts around 3,000 participants each year — big enough to have great atmosphere, small enough that you'll never feel lost in a crowd. The finish area on the Warners Bay foreshore is genuinely lovely, and there are plenty of good cafes and restaurants nearby for the obligatory post-race meal.

Getting there

If you're coming from Sydney, jump on the train to Toronto or Cockle Creek and it's a short drive to the start. Alternatively, Newcastle Airport (roughly 40 minutes away) is well served by domestic flights. There's reasonable accommodation in Warners Bay, Cardiff, and the broader Lake Macquarie region, as well as more options in Newcastle city itself.