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. 2d ago

    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

  2. 6d ago

    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.

  3. 6d ago

    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.

  4. 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.”

  5. 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.”

  6. 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.”

  7. Jul 20

    Victory Road parkrun | V is for Victory

    Road to Victory | Victory Road Reserve parkrun | 5K Yarns on the Road to parkrunday with BILLO This week on 5K Yarns on the Road to parkrunday with BILLO, we’re heading to Victory Road Reserve parkrun in Clarinda, Melbourne’s south-east. Known as Victoria’s only parkrun beginning with the letter “V”, this event offers much more than just another stop on another parkrun adventure. What many visitors don’t realise is that Victory Road Reserve was once one of Melbourne’s major landfill sites. Since closing in 2019, it has undergone an extraordinary transformation into more than 30 hectares of community parkland, complete with walking trails, native vegetation, fitness facilities and spectacular views. In this episode, we uncover the remarkable story behind the reserve, including the fascinating network of methane gas extraction wells hidden beneath the landscape. Discover how these engineering systems continue to safely capture landfill gas and help generate renewable electricity while hundreds of parkrunners, walkers and volunteers enjoy the reserve every Saturday morning. We’ll also explore the unique two-loop course, share the event statistics, recognise the incredible volunteer team—including first-time volunteer Nan—and finish the morning with a visit to the popular Fred & Peg’s Café. This episode is a reminder that sometimes the greatest stories aren’t found in the most obvious places. Sometimes the Road to Victory isn’t about crossing the finish line first. Sometimes it’s about transformation, resilience and giving a place—and perhaps even ourselves—a second chance. Thank you for joining me on another adventure. 5K Yarns on the Road to parkrunday with BILLO — Where every barcode has a story.   🎥 YouTube: https://youtu.be/5Esh4yFtrVc? 🏃 Official Victory Road Reserve parkrun: https://www.parkrun.com.au/victoryroadreserve/ 📘 Victory Road Reserve parkrun Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/victoryroadreserveparkrun/ 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

    The Phar Lap Track parkrun | The parkrun that stops a nation.

    🐎 Episode 15 | The Phar Lap Track parkrun – Braeside, Victoria The parkrun destination that stops a nation. What do Australia’s greatest racehorse and a Saturday morning parkrun have in common? More than you might think. In this episode of 5K Yarns on the Road to parkrunday with BILLO, we journey to The Phar Lap Track parkrun at Braeside Park, Victoria—an event unlike any other. After a 4:00am departure and a 355-kilometre drive from Wodonga, BILLO discovers a parkrun where history, community and storytelling come together. Once the training grounds of Australia’s legendary Phar Lap, this peaceful bushland setting now welcomes runners, walkers and volunteers from all walks of life every Saturday morning. Along the way you’ll discover: 🐎 The incredible story of Phar Lap and his devoted strapper Tommy Woodcock. 🐴 The touching story behind “Bobby”, the little horse mascot loved by The Phar Lap Track community. 🌳 A complete review of the course, facilities, parking and what to expect on your visit. ☕ Why Son of Adam has become the go-to café for post-parkrun breakfast. 🏅 Event 45 highlights, including a celebration of Kathleen’s remarkable 500th parkrun milestone. 👏 A heartfelt tribute to the volunteers who make parkrun possible every week. Whether you’re a passionate parkrun tourist, a history enthusiast or simply love discovering inspiring places and people, this episode is a reminder that every parkrun has its own unique story waiting to be told. Because behind every finish token… Behind every milestone… And behind every barcode… There’s a story worth telling.   🎙️ 5K Yarns on the Road to parkrunday with BILLO “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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