FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. How much does it cost to enter this event?
This is a FREE community event so there are no registration costs involved
Q. Why do I need to register if the event is free?
By registering online prior to event day you will go in the draw to win some great prizes!!
For the safety of all involved we need to have an accurate idea of the number of people participating in the event prior to event day. This will also help with staff resources and facilities in busy areas.
Q. How will I know where the course is?
You can download the course map from this website to review prior to event day. You need to collect your “Participant Passport” on event morning, or at pre-event registration in Martin Place on Thursday 25th and Friday 26th October, which will have event information inside. On event day there will also be event signage and volunteer course marshals along the route pointing you in the right direction.
Q. What if I can't walk the entire 25km?
This event is for everyone so you can start and finish wherever you like. Simply head to your nearest village to register and away you go!
Check prior to event day where you think you might like to start and look at your transport options from the websites mentioned in the “"Event Details" section of this website.
For your return trip why not use the free transport available to event participants. Buses will run in an anti-clockwise direction at regular intervals. Ferries will run between Birkenhead Point, Milsons Point and Circular Quay on a less frequent basis. You can stop at the closest village and enquire at the information booth for local transport information.
Q. Do I need to walk in a certain direction?
Yes, the course is set up for you to walk in a clockwise direction only. We will be tracking your progress through a stamp system so it is important that you continue in a clockwise direction while on the course. You may like to use the FREE transport system that will be available to event participants on the day. For further information please refer to the Transport section of the Event Details.
Q. Can I run in this event?
No. The Medibank Private Seven Bridges Walk is purely a walking event and does not accommodate any running. There are no road closures for this event so everyone is to abide by normal pedestrian road rules. With everyone on footpaths abiding by the road rules and potentially a lot of people walking the course, trying to run through the crowd and across roads is going to be dangerous to you, other participants and the general public.
Q. Am I permitted to ride my bike, skateboard or rollerblades etc in this event?
No. This is a community event celebrating walking and supporting four charities; it's not a race and everyone will be a winner. There is plenty of time to comfortably complete the course so there is no need to be riding a bike, skateboard or rollerblades etc. Due to the hazardous and dangerous nature of bikes, skateboards, rollerblades and any other moving equipment, people with any of the above will not be considered as participants in the Medibank Private Seven Bridges Walk.
Q. Is this course accessible for prams and wheelchairs?
In organising this event we have made every effort to ensure the course is as accessible as possible. Unfortunately due to the nature of some of the terrain, it is difficult to make the course completely accessible for everyone. The main areas to consider are: the steps at the entrance and the exit to the Sydney Harbour Bridge, access via steps onto Iron Cove Bridge, access via stairs to the path after Fig Tree Bridge and some steep terrain through the Lane Cove area.
Q. What is a “Participant Passport”?
It is an information booklet that you will collect at the village you choose to start at. The passport will include event information, course information, a course map, and general information for walking along your journey. Each bridge and village will have a stamp that signifies you have visited that particular bridge or village, and will provide a record of where you have been on the day, and also acts as a keepsake of your Seven Bridges experience.
Q. How will the charities raise money? And is this “all profits” or “all proceeds” go to the charities?
You can help raise money for the charities by making a donation online when you register. Other money raised for the charities will be through activities on event day. All proceeds raised through the donations will be equally split between the four charities.
Q. Will I get a certificate after the event?
You will be able to download a certificate for participating in the event. Please check the ‘Certificate’ section of this website after the event.
Q. Will water be available throughout the course?
Yes, at each of the seven villages there will be water stations for you fill your own drink bottles. There are also special event branded drink bottles available for sale on the day at Lane Cove and The Rocks Villages, or to purchase online through the 'Merchandise' section of the website. As this is not a competition you are able to leave the course for a break, lunch or to fetch a drink at anytime and rejoin the course at a later time.
Q. How long do you think it will take?
For a fit and active person to walk the course at a continuous brisk pace it will take about 4.5 to 5 hours. For someone with a moderate fitness level and/or stopping for breaks along the way it could take 6 – 8 hours.
Each village will have a map showing where you are, the distance to the next village and the approx time it will take.
If you are attempting to complete the entire course, we strongly recommend that you start prior to midday in order to finish before the 5pm course and village closure.
