Tuesday, 13 May 2025

Curtis Cooper

David HODGETT (Croydon) (12:58): Today I wish to speak on an outstanding individual from my electorate, Curtis Cooper. Curtis took up long-distance running after the birth of his son in 2017, and since then he has run 15 marathons. In 2024 he took part in his first Bravehearts 777 Marathon event. The event was founded in 2013 and involves participants running seven marathon events across seven Australian cities on seven consecutive days. Money raised supports the charity’s work, which is dedicated to the prevention and treatment of child sex abuse.

This year not only is Curtis running in the Bravehearts 777 Marathon event, where he will again run seven marathons across seven states in seven days, but he has committed to challenging himself further. From 30 June this year to 29 June 2026 he will be going solo and running 52 marathons across 52 weeks, inclusive of the 777 marathons. As part of this commitment he has set himself a goal to fundraise $250,000 for Bravehearts by the end of June 2026. Curtis’s inspiration is to show his son that there is nothing you cannot achieve in life if you are willing to put in the work, whilst also raising awareness for the incredible work that Bravehearts do. Curtis’s decision to take on this impressive commitment demonstrates his passion and dedication to making a difference. Well done, Curtis, and all the best for your upcoming marathons.