Community
6 February, 2026
St Arnaud Secondary College is tri-ing for funding breakthrough
A reverse triathlon is exactly that - instead of swimming first before completing the ride then run, you start with the run, then ride and finish with a swim.
STUDENTS at St Arnaud Secondary College are hoping the community with run it back to basics for their fundraiser later this month.
Literally.
Year 12 student Millie Hando is a driving force behind the reverse triathlon as a way of gathering funds for the school’s ever growing Energy Breakthrough teams.
“We have so many students getting so into it,” she said.
“It’s such a growing event in general, but you can see so many kids at school hanging out to see what we come up with.
“We love and appreciate our sponsors, but we don’t want to rely on them so heavily this year, so that’s why we thought of this fundraiser.”
The event is also a callback to one similar 11 years ago.
A reverse triathlon is exactly that - instead of swimming first before completing the ride then run, you start with the run, then ride and finish with a swim.
“I think it’s a lot nicer and cooler finishing on a swim,” Ms Hando said.
“It’s guarenteed fun regardless, but I think, especially when it’s hot, finishing on the swim is a great way to cool off.”
Ahead of the Energy Breakthrough event in November, students spend the year designing, building and testing their machines, using the latest technology while considering its impact on the environment.
They then bring their machines to Maryborough to demonstrate and trial them.
Ms Hando said she believes the focus on events such as these was important for students and would often bring out a lot of excitement.
“I’ve been taking part since I was in Year 7 and absolutely love it,” she said.
“Learning about the aerodynamics and physics behind it all, educating kids in STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) is all a good part of having a well-rounded education.
“Plus it’s always a great way to get the whole school and town in general to come together and support a great cause.”
The Reverse Triathlon will take place on February 15 and will consist of a 5km bush run, 350m pool swim and 15km mountain bike ride.
You can enter as an individual for $20 or a team for $45.
The individual wave will take off from the CFA running track at 8am and the teams from 10am.
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