Meet our 777 marathon 2025 national team!
Branka Indic
Queensland
This will be my fourth year running the 777 Marathon.
I’m committed to safeguarding all children and lucky to be working for an organisation that has the same values, Busy Bees Early Learning Australia.
Child sexual abuse is a preventable crime that requires a holistic approach from all involved: businesses, communities, systems and individuals. As an individual, I’m doing my part to assist in prevention of this terrible crime by bringing awareness to the issue and running 7 marathons in 7 states over 7 consecutive days. My goal is to raise $11,000 for Bravehearts so they can continue to empower and protect Australian children.
Brad Lenahan
Queensland
I first started running when my sister was made Ambassador for the 2024 Brisbane International Women's Day 5km Fun Run, after being diagnosed with Breast Cancer.
I’m a self-confessed running pest, talking about running, reading about running and annoying anyone who shows the slightest interest in running!
The Bravehearts 777 will not only be a tough challenge physically and mentally, but it will also be a meaningful way to put my running to good use to raise money for a worthy cause - Bravehearts.
Brian Upton
Queensland
I am 73 and affectionately known by friends as ‘Uppy Senior’ or by family and grandchildren as ‘Poppy’. I have been married to my wife Robyn for 52 years and we have three adult children and five grandchildren.
I competed in the very first Coolangatta Gold in 1984! I have qualified and competed in many World Championship events including Olympic distance World Championships, as well as the World Ironman Triathlon championships in Kona Hawaii.
This will be my third year running the 777 Marathon as a father/son team with Mark Upton. Our goal this year is to raise $50,000 for Bravehearts as ‘Team Uppy’ and continue to spread awareness about protecting children from sexual abuse.
Brooke Staff
Queensland
I am a 40 year-old proud mum of one and dedicated professional working in the child protection and domestic violence sectors.
Every day I see the impacts of lasting trauma and subsequently, the importance of creating safe environments for our children.
The challenge of running back-to-back marathons - pushing through physical exhaustion, mental hurdles, and the grit required to keep going - mirrors the incredible courage and resilience shown by survivors of child sexual abuse. Through this marathon journey, I aim to honour their struggles and triumphs, raising awareness and funds to support healing and prevention.
Cherie Abernethy
New South Wales
I am a survivor of historical child sexual abuse, first disclosing my story to the Royal Commission. After 50 years of silence, telling my story, the police investigation and ensuing court procedures were traumatic and challenging.
I am in my mid-60s, and running does not come naturally to me. The 777 Marathon will not be easy, and I do not expect the experience to be pain free, physically or psychologically. I am resilient, but anything the 777 challenge throws at me could not be more difficult than what I have endured.
In the last three years I have completed five individual legs of the 777 as a State Runner. Participating in these events and interacting with the National Runners and Bravehearts staff I have found the courage to talk about my experiences. If Bravehearts had existed when I was at school, my life would have played out very differently.
Claire Cooper
Victoria
I supported Bravehearts’ 777 Marathon in 2024 as a volunteer when my husband Curtis was running. The vibes were so good that I wanted to be part of it, so in 2025 I will be joining Curtis as a National Runner.
I’ve never thought of myself as a runner, but after starting with small steps after the birth of my son, I have gradually increased to take on bigger challenges.
I work for the Victorian public service in emergency management. My career has been dedicated to improving community outcomes for people impacted by emergencies.
I am strongly motivated to take part in this event because of the amazing work that Bravehearts does for the prevention and treatment of child sexual abuse. I grew up in a loving and supportive family environment and I desperately wish that for every child.
Colin Noble
Queensland
I first learned about the 777 marathon and Bravehearts through meeting some National Runners on a fitness holiday in NSW. I followed the 2023 team closely and met them at the start line before the Gold Coast Marathon.
Awareness and fundraising events aren’t new to me, having previously raised money for several different causes, totalling $30,000.
My mission when running across the country and raising funds, is to help people understand there is professional help and avenues of support out there for those impacted by child sexual abuse.
Curtis Cooper
Victoria
I started running long distance in 2017 after my son was born and I now have 15 marathons under my belt.
After hearing about the Bravehearts 777, I could not resist the opportunity to challenge myself while raising funds for the prevention and treatment of child sexual abuse. Little did I know that the bonds I would form in my first 777 (2024) would be ones that would last a lifetime and continue to inspire and motivate me every day. The runners and staff are some of the most courageous and caring people you could hope to meet and I feel privileged to be able to call myself a part of their team.
My hope now is that I can not only show my son that there is nothing you cannot achieve in life if you’re willing to put in the work but raise much needed funds and awareness for the incredible symbol of hope and care that is Bravehearts. I’ve even talked my wife Claire into joining me this year!
Dale Gibbs
Victoria
I am 44 and from Pakenham, Victoria. I will be running 7 Marathons, in 7 days across 7 States this year! Why would I put my body through such a thing?
Having two children of my own, it breaks my heart knowing that 1 in 4 children in Australia have experienced sexual abuse. If I can raise money for Bravehearts, I will feel like I and those that have donated, have at least done something to help.
Although I have been running marathons since 2020, this will be my hardest challenge. If you can help by making a donation, it would be much appreciated and you will feel pride, knowing you too have helped.
David Fechner
Queensland
I am 34 and live in Brisbane. More than 20 years ago, I was sexually harassed by a man who was supposed to be my mentor.
Even though it was reported to police, the man was never convicted. Today, after many therapy sessions, I am starting to understand how this childhood experience impacted my life. I am very fortunate and grateful for being supported by my partner, my family and friends throughout my healing journey.
I will run Bravehearts' 777 Marathon to speak up about child sexual abuse and raise funds for Bravehearts’ essential personal safety programs for young children, and counselling services for children and families affected by child sexual abuse.
Glenn Edmonds
New South Wales
I’m 53 and live in Bega on the far south coast of New South Wales. I’m involved with our local running club, Sapphire Coast Runners and volunteer two afternoons a week coaching children and passing on the joy of running and movement.
Although I have been a runner for most of my life, this is the first time I have set myself a goal of this magnitude.
Thank you for taking the time to read my story, I would be grateful to anyone who is able to assist me in reaching my fundraising target by donating today.
Jackie Annett
Western Australia
I am 48, a proud mum of two adult children and a dedicated professional working in the investigation of child sexual abuse and management of sex offenders. Advocating for child safety and providing them with a voice is the driving force behind my motivation.
After witnessing first-hand, the impacts of this trauma I am aware of how intervention and education can empower victims, witnesses and support services in creating safer environments for our children.
I have no idea how my body will cope with 7 marathons in 7 days, but I am ready to push my body to its limit and see how resilient I have become over the years. I am sure this will be an emotional journey as my mind and body become fatigued and sore over each marathon, however dragging myself up and out onto the course each day will remind me that every day is a struggle for some.
Jason Quigley
New South Wales
I’m a NSW Police Detective of 15 years, father to two young boys and husband (my wife is also a Police Officer).
After being part of Bravehearts’ 777 Marathon National Team in 2024, it was an easy decision to be part of this amazing charity and event for 2025.
The work Bravehearts does is invaluable. Police rely on services like Bravehearts, often unknowingly, as without their existence such complex crimes may go unreported and/or undetected.
Throughout my career I have been involved in several investigations relating to child sexual abuse and have placed offenders before the Courts for such matters. I personally know of individuals and families that have been directly affected by child sexual abuse and as such, the Braveheart’s charity is one close to my heart.
Jess Peil
Australian Capital Territory
I'm taking part in Australia's mightiest ultra-marathon challenge - running 7 marathons in 7 states in 7 days to raise funds and awareness for the prevention of child sexual abuse.
This will be my seventh consecutive year running Bravehearts’ 777 Marathon and to date I have raised over $160,000! I would love to tip over the $200,000 goal in 2024. I will continue to raise both funds and awareness for this much needed work as it is a passion of mine and keeping kids safe from sexual abuse is my life's purpose.
Joe Walsh
New South Wales
My name is Joe, and this is my first year running 777 Marathon and supporting Bravehearts in their mission to empower, educate and protect our children.
I am a self-employed father of a 12-year-old boy and stepfather of a 5-year-old girl, as well as an uncle to a bunch of beautiful children. I am super passionate about safeguarding all kids. Unfortunately, the research shows 1 in 4 children have experienced sexual abuse.
I cannot wait to do my bit and bring attention to this wonderful organisation by running 7 marathons in 7 days in 7 states!
Please help me with my goal of raising $11,000.00 for this great charity and help to make Australia a safer place for children.
John Wilson
Australian Capital Territory
I’m 46 and father to three boys. I started running about nine years ago with my first major event being the Canberra 100km. I first signed up for Bravehearts’ 777 Marathon in 2020, which was unfortunately then cancelled due to COVID. I had already trained extremely hard and had raised over $16,000, so I decided to still run the 7 marathons in Canberra. We mapped out the routes to incorporate the roads to match the states we should have been running in each day. It was a fantastic week! The support I received was truly amazing.
This will be the fourth year I have completed 777 and I am well into my fundraising and training to make 2025 my best year yet!
Kaitlin Primrose
Australian Capital Territory
I am 26, my favourite colour is pink and I used to absolutely HATE running! I first participated in 777 in 2021, and it did exactly what the event is designed to do- it almost broke me!
777 challenged me in so many ways I was not expecting. Yes, it hurt - I had the typical sunburn, sweat, blood, bruises, blisters and tears of the other National Runners. However, I also faced so many mental demons I wasn’t prepared for. I made it through the week, but it took me months to be able to put a pair of sneakers on again without feeling some sort of anxiety and sadness.
It really put into perspective what the victims that we run for must feel.
In 2023 and 2024, I returned to the 777 Marathon. I raised more money than I had in 2021, and in turn, more awareness. I completed each day in a consistent, admirable time and I made life-long friends. Somewhere along the way, I learned to adore running!
Kate Brown
Queensland
In 2025 I will be turning the big 5-0 and decided that it was time to take Bravehearts’ 777 off the 'bucket list'.
With a background in early childhood and now as a running coach, I am passionate about helping others achieve their goals. As a parent and grandparent, I feel a strong responsibility to be a voice for children and advocate for their safety and well-being.
I would greatly appreciate your support in reaching my fundraising goal of $15,000 to help support educational programs and counselling services for children and families affected by sexual abuse. Please consider donating online today to help protect vulnerable children.
Kirrily Sartore
Australian Capital Territory
I am mother to a 15 year-old daughter, partner to Ross (also completing Bravehearts’ 777 for his sixth time this yeaer), a Defence Veteran and Public Servant working for Defence.
Whilst I have always been physically active, I have only recently understood the joys and challenges that running can bring. I have participated in several running events, including local and interstate half and ultra marathons. Although the feeling of crossing the finish line each time can be rewarding, it’s nothing compared to helping those far less fortunate than myself and my family.
This will be my fourth year of raising funds and awareness for this very worthy cause. Please help me in educating and empowering others so we can minimise the risk of harm to children.
Laura Firth
Western Australia
I'm a wife, mother, runner, personal trainer and survivor of child sexual abuse. I don’t share my story much, but I want to do everything I can to make sure that this crime is not swept under the rug. I want people to stand up, be aware, be educated, and all work together to protect children.
I'm running the 777 for all the children out there who need someone to be their strength and safety. I'm asking you to help me do this - to do your bit to ensure that children are protected from sexual abuse.
To know that 1 in 4 Australians have experienced child sexual abuse is terribly sad. To know that there is something I can do to help - something YOU can do to help - that’s a gift.
Luke Meura
New South Wales
Suffering from traumatic experiences as a child lead me straight into drug and alcohol abuse as a teenager and into my twenties. This all hits too close to home for me to not try and take this challenge on and help the children of Australia.
After setbacks in my sporting career, running in my mid 20's provided me with an outlet to look within myself and ask questions. Running improved my overall well-being and continues to do so. Without running there is no hope for me.
For me to combine the two things that are so important to me and possibly create an actual difference and impact in the lives of abused children and in the life of my own is unfathomable. This is my why.
Mark Upton
New South Wales
I am 43, married and have three amazing children. I love pushing the boundaries to what we can achieve including marathons, short and long-distance triathlons and Ironman events.
My first Ironman event was lucky enough to race it with my dad, ‘Uppy Snr’ in Port Macquarie in 2016. My children motivate me every day to show them how to push the limits in sport and my amazing wife supports me in these crazy hobbies.
The opportunity to participate in Bravehearts’ 777 with my dad and represent Bravehearts is an honour and privilege.
Melissa Elphinstone
Victoria
As a mother of three young adults and a nanna the safety of children has always been my priority. However, 1 in 4 children do not have this opportunity, nor do they feel they have a voice. I believe that WE are the voice of these children and to be part of the Bravehearts’ 777 National Team, taking up this challenge demonstrates my commitment to make a difference, raise awareness and to protect our children from harm. Yes, I will be running 777, however spreading the word of the amazing work of Bravehearts, is my main drive!
This will be my fifth year participating in Bravehearts’ 777. Running for me is not about winning the race, it’s about personal achievement, friendships, role modelling and helping others achieve their own personal goals.
I believe that we can join together and make a difference for our children, and Bravehearts’ 777 is the perfect space to do this.
Michael OBrien
Australian Capital Territory
I started running in November 2022 and quickly discovered I enjoyed how it made me feel.
I’m excited to be representing the ACT and taking part in the 2025 Bravehearts 777 Marathon - 295km of running in 7 days!
Bravehearts holds a special place in my heart. I am here to do my best to help enact positive change. I'm extremely grateful to anyone who can contribute by donating.
Pete Gutbrod
Victoria
I am a father of three girls and passionate about setting a good example and being the best I can be for my family. Having just turned 50 and wanting to demonstrate to the girls that anything is possible if you set your mind to it, I have chosen to complete the 2025 Bravehearts 777 Marathon.
I was fortunate enough to have run the 2024 Melbourne marathon leg of Bravehearts’ 777 and was blown away by the dedication, comradery and determination shown by the National Runners, so much so that I wanted to be one of them in 2025!
Peter Mahoney
Victoria
I’m 63 and a survivor of child sexual abuse, which is why I’m so keen to support Bravehearts. I was lucky to have a strong and loving mum growing up, but the there was no support, and no one outside our home knew our father was violet and abusive. That’s why the school programs delivered by Bravehearts are so very important.
I’m the luckiest man in the world, I know too many survivors here in Ballarat who couldn’t carry the burden of the abuse they endured as children and took their own lives. But here I am, having been father to five kids and now 12 grandchildren.
When people ask me why I am doing the 777 Marathon again, my answer is quite simple. If we can help even one child, it’s all worth it.
Peter Miller
Western Australia
I will be 63 when I embark on the 777 Marathon in 2025. If all goes well, day 7 of the event at the Gold Coast will be my 100th marathon!
I ran my first leg of 777 in Perth in 2024. It was a six 7km loops. Every time I passed a National Runner, I was immensely empowered by them in what lay ahead over the next 7 days. It inspired me to join the challenge in 2025.
I have been a teacher for 42 year and have two daughters and two grandchildren. These four are my life and I would do anything to protect them. During my career, I have witnessed massive changes to the school system and our society. I have seen first-hand the damage that sexual abuse has on the life of an innocent child. I have taught children who have suffered from mental abuse and physical abuse. I hope by doing what I am going to do, I can help improve the lives of Australian children.
Rob Goodall
New South Wales
I’m taking part in 777 to raise funds for Bravehearts, an incredible charity dedicated to protecting children and supporting survivors of child sexual abuse.
Working in law enforcement I am only too aware of the devastation child sexual abuse causes to children, families and the wider community.
As well as raising much needed funds and awareness for child sexual abuse prevention, I’m taking on the 777 Marathon to prove to myself that you can do anything if you put your mind to it!
Robina Juanir
Tasmania
Originally from the Philippines, I now work as an early childhood educator at Discovery Early Learning Centre in Tasmania, where I dedicate myself to creating safe, nurturing environments for children.
My running journey began in 2023 with Parkrun, and since then, I’ve pushed myself to new limits, completing both marathons and ultra-marathons. Now, I’m taking on the biggest challenge of my life!
Growing up in the Philippines, I witnessed the harsh reality of abuse, and I vowed to myself that one day, I would make a difference. When I moved to Australia, I naively believed that child sexual abuse wouldn’t be as common, but the reality was shocking.
That’s why I’m running for Bravehearts. Through this marathon, I aim to raise awareness and funds for their life-changing work.
Ross Scott
Australian Capital Territory
I am a loving partner, devoted father, a Defence veteran and contractor, and an avid runner.
I have been extremely lucky to have had a humble and loving upbringing in rural Victoria where I felt safe. My partner and I have a daughter and the thought of her being anything other than safe terrifies me.
When I heard about Bravehearts and the incredible work they do, it was a revelation, a moment in time when I knew I could be doing more for our community and the vulnerable children within it. This was an opportunity to link my running to a cause and hopefully inspire others to take part. This will now be my fourth year of running 777 and raising funds for Bravehearts.
Ryan Govier
Western Australia
Running 7 marathons in 7 states in 7 days is a personal challenge that merges my passion for running with a cause I deeply believe in.
I’ve always been drawn to running’s power to test limits and build resilience. This journey is a testament to my love for running and my desire to channel that energy into making a tangible difference.
My dedication to running is rooted in its transformative impact on my own life, providing me with clarity, strength, and a sense of achievement. I want to harness this passion to support Bravehearts, whose work is essential in helping survivors heal and reclaim their lives.
Each marathon I complete will be a symbol of the endurance and perseverance that survivors demonstrate daily. By pushing my limits, I aim to raise both awareness and funds for Bravehearts, ensuring they can continue their crucial work.
Steve Onorato
Australian Capital Territory
I got into Bravehearts’ 777 after working in law enforcement for about 14 years. Protecting the community and in particular the most vulnerable parts of the community has always been a passion of mine. Seeing first-hand the positive impact that Bravehearts has on protecting children from sexual abuse is a driving force in why I’m committed to running 7 marathons in 7 days across Australia.
Hearing that 1 in 4 Australians are affected by child sexual abuse is a shocking statistic that I am compelled to change, and I am seeking your help and assistance to help raise money for Bravehearts so they can continue to empower and protect Australian children.
Tom Walsh
New South Wales
I recently became a dad to a beautiful baby girl, and nothing could have prepared me for the powerful instinct to protect her and ensure she grows up safe and loved. Learning about the statistics on child sexual abuse was heartbreaking and infuriating. It made me realise just how important it is to raise awareness and take real action to protect all children.
I’ve always embraced tough challenges, and joining Bravehearts in this mission is both a privilege and a responsibility. I’m here to help raise awareness, inspire others, and contribute to a future where no child endures the horrors of abuse.
