What’s happening?
HeartKids’ annual Two Feet & A Heartbeat walk is taking place at Riverway Amphitheatre, Townsville, on Sunday, 12 October 2025. The event invites locals to walk 4km in honour of the four lives lost each week to childhood-onset heart disease (CoHD), or 8km to represent the eight babies born each day in Australia with a heart condition.
The walk will start from the Amphitheatre, following a 4km return track. The afternoon will also feature activities, food, and time for reflection.
Registrations made by Sunday 5 October will be guaranteed a pack that includes a HeartKids flag and limited-edition socks. On event day, packs and merchandise will only be available while stocks last.
Why it matters
All funds raised will be used to increase accessibility to HeartKids support services and programs in hospitals, in communities, and in rural and regional areas.
HeartKids CEO Marcus Sandmann said the event was important for the 250,000 Australians living with childhood-onset heart disease, along with their families and carers.
“I encourage you to join Two Feet & A Heartbeat and walk with us to support our heart families with in-hospital services, family support programs and other vital resources,” Mr Sandmann said.
Local impact
The Townsville event will include a memorial table where bereaved families are invited to place photos of their Heart Angels as part of the evening formalities. The walk is also a chance for families and supporters to connect and share the experience together.
By the numbers
-
Four lives are lost each week to childhood-onset heart disease in Australia.
-
Eight babies are born each day with a heart condition.
-
250,000 children, teens and adults are living with CoHD.
Zoom in
The event will open at 3:00 PM with participant arrivals, followed by activities from 3:30 PM. Formalities and a memorial service will be held at 5:30 PM before the walk begins at 6:00 PM. The event concludes at 7:00 PM.
Families can enjoy children’s crafts hosted by Kennedy Region Scouts, a petting zoo and face painting provided by Fraser-Lever Consulting Engineers, and raffle draws with prizes. A sausage sizzle and soft drinks will also be served by Kennedy Region Scouts, with fairy floss available. Attendees are welcome to bring picnic rugs or chairs for the afternoon.
Zoom out
Two Feet & A Heartbeat is part of HeartKids’ national effort to raise awareness of CoHD and provide vital funding for support services. The Townsville walk adds to the events happening across the country during October.
Access and parking
Riverway can be accessed via Riverway Drive by turning into Village Boulevard at the traffic lights at the intersection with High Range Drive. Over 400 car parks are available on site for public use. Translink runs regular services along Riverway Drive and Ross River Road, with bus pickup also available from Willows Shopping Centre.
What to look for next
Townsville’s walk will bring the community together on 12 October in support, remembrance, and hope for families impacted by CoHD.
