There are several runners from Walcha who regularly take part in the event, including Lance Partridge, Bernie Brady and Wisty Halloran. This year it will be the 39th City to Surf, and a big one for Wisty, who will be running the race for the 30th time.

She first did it in 1980, not knowing whether she would be able to run for 14km, or how long it would take her. She finished in 71 minutes and has run the race every year since then.

“I’m a bit slower than I used be”, Wisty said. “Back then I used to train more and was more ambitious.

“I wanted to get under 70 minutes, which would have meant I was in the first 5000 - but one year when I did get under 70 I wasn’t in the first 5000 after all. Everyone was faster! It was the year Rob de Castella set a race record which stood for a very long time. Yes, I’ve competed against Deek, Monagetti - the big names. These days I don’t train much - I just do it. (Nike, where are you? I’m available for endorsements.)

“Now my ambition is to get under 80 minutes again, which I haven’t done for years. But last year I came close - I finished in 80 minutes 42 seconds, and was in the first 10,000 - so maybe a sub 80 is still possible. Bernie, Lance - catch me if you can!”

For the last few years, runners in the event have been raising much-needed funds for charities.

Wisty has chosen Mission Australia as her charity, and is hoping that Walcha residents will donate generously.

“I chose Mission Australia because they help people who are really down on their luck and need a hand,” Wisty said. “They provide shelter to homeless people, give skills to young people, provide training for the long-term unemployed and help keep families together by providing budgeting skills and support.”

In 2000 Wisty took part in Mission Australia’s “Heartstopper” fundraiser - she abseiled down the Regent Hotel in Sydney.

“I was amazed how generous people were in sponsoring me,” she said. “I guess they were impressed by a crazy activity such as going down backwards off the side of a 34 storey building. I hope this time they will donate just as generously to mark my 30th City to Surf.”

Donations can be made by sending a cheque payable to Mission Australia to Wisty at Ti-tree Springs, Walcha or dropped into the Mission Australia donation box at the Post Office, or online at www.city2surf.everydayhero.com.au /wisty_halloran