Walking for Charlotte: George Wilkins takes on the Long Run in full firefighting gear
The Long Run 2026 is in full swing, and we have the privilege of meeting so many amazing humans who are humbling us with their stories and commitment to the event.
The Long Run is all about coming together as a community to raise awareness and funds for the Child Cancer Foundation. It’s a day where people push themselves beyond their comfort zone for a cause greater than themselves.
Whether we are walking, running, or supporting, we’re showing that we’re stronger when we stand together. Every step taken helps make a difference.
For George Wilkins, today’s challenge is deeply personal.
At just 25 years old, George has already spent 12 years firefighting, starting as a recruit when he was only 13. But this isn’t just another day on the job. George is walking 42 kilometres in his full firefighting kit – all 25kg of it, from his gumboots and jacket to helmet and cylinder.
He’s doing it for Charlotte, his cousin who sadly lost her battle with leukaemia last year.
“I’m doing the Long Run for her and all the challenges she went through in her day-to-day life,” says George.
“The weather adds a challenge today to an already tough challenge in my full suit, but it’s nothing compared to what she went through. Hopefully Charlotte would be pretty proud of me.”
Charlotte’s memory will be driving him forward today.
“She was real out the gate – boisterous, full of life,” George says with a smile.
“This is so cool to be here. For all of these people to be taking time off work or time out of their day to come down and do this – whether they’re walking for an hour, running for an hour or running for the whole event – it’s so cool to see everyone come together and be part of this awesome event.”
George has already raised just under $1,500, and every dollar counts towards making a difference – help us achieve our target of 60,000 laps whilst raising $300,000 for Child Cancer Foundation.
If you’d like to support his incredible effort, you can donate below.
We’d love to have you join us at Malvern Park today, but if you can’t be here in person, you can still take part through the Aotea Virtual Challenge.
From 23 to 25 January, participants around the world can complete their own kilometres in a 48 hour window. Every kilometre logged contributes toward our 60,000 lap target and helps raise vital funds for the Child Cancer Foundation.