Wayne's Run (Kincumber) - The Need for Change in the NSW Out of Home Care (OOHC) system

Event Details:
Join us for a relaxed event with drinks and nibbles to connect with the local community interested in creating social impact.

- Wayne’s Story- Hear Wayne discuss his journey through early abuse and trauma, a broken foster care system, 17 years in goal, and how he's emerged determined to prevent intergenerational cycles of institutionalisation. 

- Meet Pat Farmer- Learn about the mindset required to run extreme distances and push through intense pain, and what motivates him to continue to take on these gruelling challenges. 

- Foster Carers- Listen to foster carers share their experiences of caring for Australia's most vulnerable children, the challenges they face, and their advice for prospective carers.

- Q&A Session: Participate in a conversation with Wayne, Pat, and foster care experts.

ABOUT WAYNE'S RUN

"Wayne's Run" is a campaign aimed at raising awareness about the need for change in the NSW OOHC system. Wayne's story centers on his ongoing journey of reconciling past traumas as a foster child through his passion for long-distance running. His history of early childhood abuse and neglect, navigating multiple foster care placements and group homes, battling substance abuse and repeated stints in the NSW justice system, reflects a common narrative for kids in the system today. Wayne now seeks to break this cycle, and be part of the solution. 

Supported by Australian legend and ultra-marathon icon Pat Farmer, Wayne will run from Kempsey Court House to Sydney over eight days, covering 50-75km per day. His journey along the East Coast of NSW will also include sharing his story with the public. Wayne brings his complex life journey to the forefront with vulnerability, passion, and compelling authenticity. 

At these events, attendees can learn more about the current carer availability crisis, which has left 470 children living in hotels instead of family homes. You will hear from current carers about the highs and lows of their role, the strength and persistence required, and the humbling opportunity they have to change the course of not just a child’s life, but generations of disadvantage.  

These community events are open to the public, where Hatch Carers looks forward to being part of the conversations at each event. Whether you are an ultra-marathon enthusiast, a lover of stories of change and resilience, a potential future carer, or a community member or organization wishing to show support for the cause, we warmly welcome you to join us for Wayne's Run.​