12/04/2021
River Crossing Update
We are excited about using river crossings to present a challenge not always found in other trail runs. At all times the comfort and safety of participants are at the forefront of our planning. Throughout the planning stages we have consulted with the SES, Police and local Council and the SES are continuing to monitor the Macdonald River and advise us on any safety concerns.
River heights on the day are dependent on the volume of rain falling in the seven to ten days prior to the event, and are therefore a little unpredictable. As at 10-04-2021 , the river crossings of all three courses were approximately 28 to 50mtrs wide and around a height of 1-1.2 mtrs on average. There is little or no rain forecast for the week leading up to the event, and river heights reported by the Bureau of Meteorology (BOM) are steadily falling. The SES is expecting the Macdonald River to fall by approximately 10cms per day during the final week, so we expect crossing depths to be approximately 40-60cms on race day and safe for adults, children and large dogs. Participants should be prepared to carry small dogs for a short distance if necessary.
Hand ropes will be in place at these crossings to aid competitors if they feel they need it. Participants are urged to bring a change of clothes and shoes to be worn after their race has finished. Parents should also consider having a flotation aid on hand for young children and small dogs. During the final week of preparation, river crossing information will be updated on our website and the St Albans Volunteer Bush Fire Brigade and St Albans RFS Pioneer Trail Run pages.
Please be aware that course layouts and race start times are subject to change.
