5K Yarns Podcast with BILLO.

nzs5kyarnspod

⸻ 5K Yarns Podcast with BILLO is a heartfelt and inspiring podcast that dives into the stories behind the barcodes of parkrun enthusiasts. Hosted by BILLO, each episode features everyday runners, walkers, and volunteers who share their unique journeys, motivations, and experiences with parkrun. Whether you’re a dedicated local, a passionate tourist, or just love to volunteer, this podcast celebrates the people who make parkrun special—one yarn at a time. ⸻

  1. 6d ago

    🎙️ EPISODE 19 — CRUICKSHANK PARK PARKRUN “THE BLUESTONE BARCODE”

    Event #28 | Saturday 15 August 2026 | Yarraville, Victoria This week, 5K Yarns on the Road to parkrunday with BILLO heads into Melbourne’s inner west for Cruickshank Park parkrun. The journey begins with another 4:00am departure from Wodonga and a drive of approximately 330 kilometres in search of another barcode—and another story. Before arriving, I expected Cruickshank Park to carry the obvious scars of Yarraville’s industrial past. Instead, I discovered a surprisingly green and peaceful corridor following Stony Creek, surrounded by established trees, open parkland, local birdlife and an incredibly welcoming community. Volunteering as Tail Walker gave me the opportunity to experience the complete three-lap course, including its combination of concrete paths, compact gravel and grass, multiple bridge crossings and one short two-way section. In this episode: 🏭 We uncover the industrial and bluestone history of Yarraville 🚙 Explore the journey from Wodonga and parking around Cruickshank Park 🏃 Break down the three-lap course and what visitors should expect 🙌 Celebrate the volunteers behind Event #28 🏅 Review the results from 105 finishers and 12 volunteers ☕ Visit Masak Masak for post-parkrun coffee and Singapore chilli eggs 🏨 Introduce accommodation guidance for visiting parkrun tourists 🗺️ Explore other things to see around Yarraville and Melbourne’s inner west 💭 Reflect on why arriving without expectations can sometimes deliver the best experiences A huge thank you to the Cruickshank Park parkrun volunteer team for making me feel welcome and allowing me to help bring the field home. The barcode is just the beginning of the story. 🎥 WATCH THE FULL YOUTUBE VERSION https://youtu.be/-c4KhB1bYqs?si=w_b0sW6jGmP6NJJU 🔗 OFFICIAL EVENT LINKS Cruickshank Park parkrun official webpage: https://www.parkrun.com.au/cruickshankpark/ Cruickshank Park parkrun official Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/cruickshankparkparkrun/ 🎵 MUSIC ACKNOWLEDGEMENT “Signal to Noise” — Scott Buckley https://www.scottbuckley.com.au/library/signal-to-noise/ Music by Scott Buckley, released under Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ ⚠️ DISCLAIMER 5K Yarns on the Road to parkrunday with BILLO is independently produced by ASLOTH PRODUCTIONS. It is not produced by, endorsed by, sponsored by or officially affiliated with parkrun Global Limited, parkrun Australia or Cruickshank Park parkrun. All opinions, observations and experiences expressed are my own and reflect my visit on 15 August 2026. Event details, course conditions, access arrangements and facilities may change, so always consult the official event channels before visiting. 🎙️ 5K Yarns on the Road to parkrunday with BILLO 🏃‍♂️ BILLO The barcode is just the beginning of the story.

  2. Aug 9

    Werribee Park Mansion parkrun | Episode 18 | Running Through History

    🏰 Werribee Park Mansion parkrun | Event #28 | Saturday 8 August 2026 This week, 5K Yarns on the Road to parkrunday with BILLO takes us somewhere I’ve wanted to experience for a very long time — Werribee Park Mansion parkrun. I knew about this event before it paused in 2022 following damage to the bridge. I’d heard the stories, seen the photos and had plenty of FOMO about never making it there. Then the event disappeared from the parkrun calendar and, for a while, it looked like this might be one Victorian parkrun I’d simply missed. But in July 2026, Werribee Park Mansion parkrun returned. So it was a 4:00am departure from Wodonga, around 345km on the road and another location waiting to be ticked off on my journey towards becoming a Victorian parkrun Statesman. And this is certainly no ordinary parkrun location. The 5K begins near the magnificent Werribee Park Mansion before taking us through the estate gardens, along mixed gravel trails and towards the Werribee River. There’s around 40 metres of elevation gain, a climb onto the ridge, a timber boardwalk descent and another climb towards the rear of the estate. But this episode goes well beyond the course. 📖 We’re Running Through History. I explore the story of Werribee Park Mansion and the two brothers whose names are forever connected with the estate — Thomas Chirnside and Andrew Spencer Chirnside — and discover some of the history surrounding the remarkable place we get to run, jog and walk through on a Saturday morning. 🙌 EVENT #28 There were 101 participants this week, along with two milestones worth celebrating. 💯 Event Director David Aquilina reached 100 volunteer credits — a particularly fitting achievement for someone who has played such an important role in bringing Werribee Park Mansion parkrun back. 4️⃣0️⃣0️⃣ Robert Mills celebrated his enormous 400th parkrun, alongside an incredible 253 volunteer credits — and added another volunteer credit on the day. Then, after the barcode has been scanned, there’s still one important part of the adventure remaining. ☕ Post-parkrun breakfast and coffee! This week we head to Wyndham Cache before I wrap things up with my review and thoughts on a parkrun that was absolutely worth the wait. 🔗 Episode Links Werribee Park Mansion parkrun https://www.parkrun.com.au/werribeeparkmansion/ Werribee Park Mansion parkrun — Facebook https://www.facebook.com/werribeeparkmansionparkrun/ Werribee Park Mansion — Parks Victoria https://www.parks.vic.gov.au/places-to-see/parks/werribee-park/things-to-do/werribee-park-mansion Parks Victoria — Facebook https://www.facebook.com/ParksVictoria/ Wyndham Cache https://www.wyndhamcache.com.au/ Wyndham Cache — Facebook https://www.facebook.com/wyndhamcache/ 🎵 Music Acknowledgement “Ascension” — Scott Buckley Music by Scott Buckley, released under Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International (CC BY 4.0). https://www.scottbuckley.com.au/ https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ ⚠️ Disclaimer 5K Yarns on the Road to parkrunday with BILLO is independently produced by ASLOTH PRODUCTIONS and is not produced by, endorsed by, sponsored by or officially affiliated with parkrun Global Limited, parkrun Australia, Parks Victoria, Werribee Park Mansion or Wyndham Cache. All opinions and experiences expressed are my own and reflect my visit on the day. Event details, course conditions, access arrangements and facilities may change, so always check official sources before visiting. 🎙️ 5K Yarns on the Road to parkrunday with BILLO 🏃‍♂️ BILLO The barcode is just the beginning of the story.

  3. Aug 2

    Ep. 17 | Elara Riparian Parklands parkrun | Event 44 | 1 Aug 2026

    🎙️ 5K Yarns on the Road to parkrunday with BILLO This week, Lila and I headed north from Wodonga to one of Australia’s newest parkrun communities – Elara Riparian Parklands parkrun in Marsden Park, Western Sydney. It was a 1,100km round trip for just one barcode… and we’d happily do it all again. In this episode we uncover the fascinating story behind the name Elara Riparian Parklands, discover why Lake Melonba sounds suspiciously like 🌊🍈🐑, explore this unique double-loop course, meet one of the warmest volunteer teams we’ve encountered, and finish the morning with a fantastic brunch at Leaf Café & Co. In this episode * 🏃 The 554km Friday road trip from Wodonga * 🌙 The story behind Elara – one of Jupiter’s moons * 🌿 What “Riparian” actually means * 🗺️ Course overview, elevation, facilities and navigation * ☕ Our post-parkrun café review * 🏨 BILLO’s Motel Review – Windsor River View * 🙋 Why volunteers remain the true heart of every parkrun Most importantly, this episode celebrates what makes parkrun so special. Wherever you travel, you’ll find communities of volunteers who give up their Saturday mornings simply to help complete strangers enjoy theirs. A huge thank you to everyone at Elara Riparian Parklands parkrun for making us feel like locals from the moment we arrived. ⸻ 🎧 Listen on * Spotify * Apple Podcasts * Podbean ⸻ Useful Links Official Elara Riparian Parklands parkrun webpage https://www.parkrun.com.au/elarariparianparklands/ Official Elara Riparian Parklands parkrun Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/elarariparianparkrun Leaf Café & Co – Marsden Park https://www.elaravillage.com.au/store/leaf-cafe/ If you enjoy the episode, please consider following the podcast, leaving a rating or review, and sharing it with another parkrunner. Because every barcode has a story… and the barcode is just the beginning of the story. ⸻ Tags #5KYarns #OnTheRoadToParkrunday #BILLO #Parkrun #ParkrunAustralia #ParkrunTourism #ParkrunTourist #BarcodeCommunity #LoveParkrun #WalkJogRun #Volunteer #ParkrunVolunteers #ElaraRiparianParklands #ElaraRiparianParklandsParkrun #MarsdenPark #WesternSydney #LakeMelonba #Riparian #JupitersMoon #NSWParkrun #SydneyParkrun #LeafCafeAndCo #CoffeeAfterParkrun #RunningCommunity #WalkingCommunity #SaturdayMorning #EveryBarcodeHasAStory #TheBarcodeIsJustTheBeginningOfTheStory

  4. Jul 29

    Episode 16 – The Search | Torquay parkrun (Event 392) | Victoria

    Some people travel to Torquay searching for the perfect wave… I travelled 412 kilometres searching for another great parkrun story. In Episode 16 of 5K Yarns on the Road to parkrunday with BILLO, I head to Victoria’s spectacular Surf Coast to experience Torquay parkrun – Event 392. This journey is about much more than another 5-kilometre parkrun. It’s a story of one of Australia’s most iconic coastal towns, home to Bells Beach, the birthplace of Rip Curl, the Australian home of Quiksilver, and the gateway to the world-famous Great Ocean Road. Volunteering as one of the Tail Walkers gave me the opportunity to experience Torquay parkrun from a unique perspective while bringing the field home alongside a welcoming community of walkers and runners. Along the way, I share my thoughts on the course, the stunning coastal scenery, the incredible volunteer team, and why this event deserves a place on every parkrun tourist’s bucket list. After parkrun, I enjoy brunch overlooking the Southern Ocean at the Salty Dog Café, visit the legendary Bells Beach, and finish the day with a drive along part of the Great Ocean Road while exploring the remarkable story behind its construction by returned First World War servicemen. Whether you’re a passionate parkrunner, a parkrun tourist, a lover of Australian history, or simply someone who enjoys discovering remarkable places, I hope this episode inspires you to add Torquay to your own adventure list. A huge thank you to the Torquay parkrun volunteer team for making Event 392 such a welcoming and memorable experience. Because, as always… Every barcode has a story.

  5. Jul 29

    Ep. 2 | The Tailwalking Legends | Volunteering, parkrun rebranding & Barcode Nonsense.

    The Tailwalking Legends – Episode 2 Volunteering, Rebranding & Barcode Nonsense Welcome back to The Tailwalking Legends, the monthly podcast from 5K Yarns, where four passionate parkrun enthusiasts come together to chat about everything parkrunday. Join BILLO, Sir Koppo, The Mayor of Tuggeranong (Tyson Flynn) and The Viking (Paul Whelan) as they share stories from their latest parkrun tourism adventures, reflect on volunteering, and tackle some of the biggest talking points in the parkrun community. In Episode 2, the legends discuss: * Their latest parkrun tourism experiences from across Australia. * The volunteer roles they love… and one role each of them would rather leave to someone else. * Whether parkrun needs a rebrand and how the community continues to evolve. * Funny stories, memorable moments and plenty of good-natured banter. The episode also highlights Paul “The Viking” Whelan’s UNICEF Australia Dusk to Dawn Challenge, where he’ll be walking 42 kilometres overnight through Sydney to raise funds for vulnerable children around the world. Whether you’re a seasoned parkrun tourist, a first-time participant, a volunteer, or simply someone who enjoys hearing great community stories, The Tailwalking Legends offers a relaxed, honest and entertaining conversation about the people who make parkrun special. So grab a coffee, lace up your shoes—or simply sit back and enjoy another episode filled with stories, laughs and plenty of barcode nonsense. Because every barcode has a story. ⸻ About The Tailwalking Legends The Tailwalking Legends is an independently produced podcast from 5K Yarns celebrating the people, places and stories that make the parkrun community unique. Each month the panel shares experiences from around Australia, discusses current topics, interviews members of the community and reminds us that parkrun is about far more than simply crossing the finish line. Disclaimer: Unless otherwise stated, the views, opinions and experiences expressed by the hosts and guests are their own and should not be interpreted as official statements, policies or positions of parkrun Australia, parkrun Global or any individual parkrun event or volunteer team. References to parkrun events, volunteers, participants and locations are made in good faith for the purposes of storytelling, education, community engagement and entertainment.

  6. Jul 20

    Pyramid Hill Golf Trail parkrun | The Hotel with the loudest stair case.

    🎙️ 5K Yarns at parkrun meets Road to parkrun with BILLO In this episode, Billo and Lila head more than 300 kilometres west across Northern Victoria to visit one of Australia’s most unique parkrun destinations — Pyramid Hill Golf Trail parkrun. What started as a simple parkrun tourism adventure quickly became a reminder of what makes country communities so special. From the moment we arrived in Pyramid Hill, we experienced genuine country hospitality, stayed at the historic Victoria Hotel (complete with what might be the loudest staircase in Australia!), enjoyed breakfast at the beautifully restored Coffee Bank, and discovered a parkrun that punches well above its weight in character and community spirit. We chat about: 🏃 Pyramid Hill Golf Trail parkrun 🚗 The road trip across Northern Victoria ☕ The Coffee Bank and local history 🏨 The Victoria Hotel experience 👥 Meeting locals and fellow parkrunners 🌄 Why parkrun tourism takes you to places you’d never otherwise visit 📍 The unique three-lap course around the base of Pyramid Hill ❤️ The volunteers and community that make this event so memorable With only a small number of weekly participants, Pyramid Hill Golf Trail parkrun proves that great parkrun experiences aren’t measured by attendance numbers. They’re measured by the people you meet, the stories you hear, and the memories you create along the way. Whether you’re a dedicated parkrun tourist, a weekend adventurer, or simply someone who enjoys discovering hidden gems around Australia, this is an episode you’ll enjoy. Because every barcode has a story. The barcode is just the beginning of the story. #5KYarnsAtParkrun #RoadToParkrunWithBILLO #ParkrunTourism #PyramidHillGolfTrailParkrun #EveryBarcodeHasAStory DISCLAIMER: “5K Yarns on the Road to parkrunday with BILLO is an independently produced podcast and video series. Unless otherwise stated, all views, opinions, commentary, observations and experiences expressed are those of the host and participating guests. They should not be interpreted as official statements, policies or positions of parkrun Australia, parkrun Global or any individual parkrun event or volunteer team. References to parkrun events, volunteers, participants and locations are made in good faith for the purpose of storytelling, education, community engagement and entertainment.”

  7. Jul 20

    Red Hill Rail Trail parkrun | Where’s the hill?

    Red Hill Rail Trail parkrun | Mornington Peninsula, Victoria | 5K Yarns on the Road to parkrunday with BILLO – Episode 15 This week on 5K Yarns on the Road to parkrunday with BILLO, we journey to one of Victoria’s most scenic rail trail events – Red Hill Rail Trail parkrun on the beautiful Mornington Peninsula. Join BILLO as he explores a course rich in history, surrounded by towering trees, peaceful bushland and the legacy of the former Red Hill railway line. This isn’t just another parkrun; it’s a chance to slow down, appreciate the landscape, and discover why this hidden gem has become a favourite among locals and visiting parkrun tourists alike. In this episode you’ll discover: The history behind the Red Hill Rail Trail and the former railway corridor. What to expect from the parkrun course, including terrain, elevation and atmosphere. The welcoming volunteer team and supportive community that make every participant feel at home. Why this is a course to enjoy rather than chase a personal best. Post-parkrun recommendations and reflections from another memorable Victorian parkrun adventure. Whether you’re a seasoned parkrun tourist, a weekend adventurer or simply love hearing stories from around Australia, this episode celebrates the people, places and experiences that make parkrun so special. Because every barcode has a story… and this one begins at Red Hill. 🎧 5K Yarns on the Road to parkrunday with BILLO Every barcode has a story. #5KYarns #parkrun #RedHillRailTrail #MorningtonPeninsula #Victoria #parkrunTourism #RunningPodcast #Parkwalk #TailWalker #EveryBarcodeHasAStory #BILLO DISCLAIMER: “5K Yarns on the Road to parkrunday with BILLO is an independently produced podcast and video series. Unless otherwise stated, all views, opinions, commentary, observations and experiences expressed are those of the host and participating guests. They should not be interpreted as official statements, policies or positions of parkrun Australia, parkrun Global or any individual parkrun event or volunteer team. References to parkrun events, volunteers, participants and locations are made in good faith for the purpose of storytelling, education, community engagement and entertainment.”

  8. Jul 20

    Portarlington parkrun | Why is it not Port Arlington?

    Episode 12 | Portarlington parkrun | Bellarine Peninsula, Victoria What begins as a simple trip to Portarlington parkrun quickly becomes one of our biggest adventures yet! In Episode 12 of 5K Yarns on the Road to parkrun with BILLO, Lila and I travel more than 800 kilometres for an unforgettable weekend on Victoria’s beautiful Bellarine Peninsula. Together we explore the fascinating history behind the town of Portarlington, discover why it isn’t called Port Arlington, walk one of Victoria’s most scenic parkrun courses, and experience the warm hospitality of the local parkrun community. The adventure doesn’t stop there. We enjoy breakfast at the famous Portarlington Bakehouse, take the Queenscliff to Sorrento Ferry across Port Phillip Bay, and finish the day at the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground, where Collingwood and Richmond battle it out in front of a passionate crowd. This episode is a celebration of what makes parkrun tourism so special. It’s about much more than running or walking five kilometres—it’s about discovering remarkable places, meeting wonderful people, supporting local communities, and creating memories that last a lifetime. In this episode: • The history of Portarlington and Sir Henry Bennet, 1st Earl of Arlington. • Bellarine Bayside Holiday Parks accommodation. • Portarlington parkrun course review and photography. • Breakfast at the Portarlington Bakehouse. • Queenscliff to Sorrento Ferry experience. • AFL at the Melbourne Cricket Ground. • Why every parkrun adventure can become so much more than just a Saturday morning. Thank you for listening to 5K Yarns on the Road to parkrun with BILLO. Remember… The barcode gets you across the finish line… but it’s the people, the places and the stories that make the journey unforgettable. Until next parkrunday, keep exploring… because every barcode has a story. DISCLAIMER: “5K Yarns on the Road to parkrunday with BILLO is an independently produced podcast and video series. Unless otherwise stated, all views, opinions, commentary, observations and experiences expressed are those of the host and participating guests. They should not be interpreted as official statements, policies or positions of parkrun Australia, parkrun Global or any individual parkrun event or volunteer team. References to parkrun events, volunteers, participants and locations are made in good faith for the purpose of storytelling, education, community engagement and entertainment.”

About

⸻ 5K Yarns Podcast with BILLO is a heartfelt and inspiring podcast that dives into the stories behind the barcodes of parkrun enthusiasts. Hosted by BILLO, each episode features everyday runners, walkers, and volunteers who share their unique journeys, motivations, and experiences with parkrun. Whether you’re a dedicated local, a passionate tourist, or just love to volunteer, this podcast celebrates the people who make parkrun special—one yarn at a time. ⸻

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