Ballina Babblers Celebrate 25 Years at Sydney’s City2Surf Fun Run

The Ballina Babblers, a senior women's group from the Northern Rivers town of Ballina, are marking their 25th anniversary in the City2Surf race. Led by 85‑year‑old matriarch Anne Sharpe and including 67‑year‑old member Narelle Fahey, the squad has grown from ten members in 2001 to 21 today. The Babblers plan to walk the 14‑kilometre course from Sydney’s CBD to Bondi Beach alongside more than 90,000 participants.

Founded on a shared love of sport and social activity, the group also runs book clubs, cycling outings and wine nights. Sharpe says the Babblers “saved my life” after her husband’s death, highlighting the health and companionship benefits of the club for older adults.