Councillor Matters | Cr Justine Hide, May 29
Published on 29 May 2026
Community spirit has been on full display in Halls Gap in recent weeks, with a series of local events highlighting the energy, generosity and dedication that make the town such a special place.
Sunday’s Run the Gap marked the event’s 14th year and once again demonstrated what can be achieved when a strong community gets behind a great idea.
Established after the 2011 floods, when tourism in Halls Gap was struggling, the event was created by local businesswoman Monique Cummings to bring visitors to town during a traditionally quiet weekend.
From modest beginnings of about 500 participants, this year’s event attracted a record 1540 runners, filling the town with visitors and a welcome sense of excitement.
Particularly encouraging was the number of young people involved, from the mini run to the strong turnout from teenagers.
Since I volunteered during the event I was not participating, however maybe next year.
Beyond the event itself, Run the Gap has also delivered a lasting community benefit through a trust fund that now stands at $70,000 and is expected to grow further.
The fund is helping support the extension of the shared bike path from Halls Gap towards the zoo and WAMA. As Monique hands responsibility for the event to a local business to run moving forward, the community owes her a sincere thanks for years of vision, effort and commitment.
The Biggest Morning Tea, on Thursday last week, was another example of local generosity in action.
The event offered a valuable chance to connect with community members while raising money for Cancer Council Australia.
Alison Bainbridge from Halls Gap Neighbourhood House helped create a lively and successful fundraiser, while Amy and Kael at Raccolto Pizzeria hosted the event and generously donated 50 per cent of the day’s takings to the cause.
With similar events taking place across the region, it is encouraging to see so many people continuing to support cancer research and care while also taking the time to come together over a conversation and a cuppa.
Recognition was also given to local volunteers at the CFA Halls Gap Awards Dinner on Friday, May 15, an evening that celebrated dedication, service and community spirit.
The event was also an opportunity for me to present a belated Australia Day Local Heroes award to community volunteer and CFA member Nicki Van Veen, who was overseas during the January celebrations while representing the region in tourism.
Her contribution, along with the efforts of all CFA volunteers, reflects the extraordinary service provided by those who quietly support and protect the community.
Looking ahead, GLOW Halls Gap will return across July and August, promising more opportunities for residents and visitors to enjoy the town’s vibrant community life during the winter months.