For many, feeling confident to get active starts with feeling welcome and in Knox there are many opportunities helping women, girls and non-binary people take that first step. For Meagan Edwards, those steps have added up to 250 parkruns and a leadership role focused on creating space for others to thrive.
Lewis Park Reserve parkrun was co-founded in 2019 by Knox residents Meagan Edwards and Anita Schwarzbauer with a Community Development Fund grant from Council. Since then, it has grown into a welcoming space for people of all abilities.
"Reaching 250 parkruns is a huge milestone for Anita and me. What keeps us coming back each week is the friendships and inclusiveness," says Meagan. "I actually first turned to parkrun during a very difficult period in my life while navigating depression. The simple act of moving, surrounded by friendly faces on Saturday mornings, helped me through that time and reminded me of the power of community."
As president of Knox Triathlon Club, based at Knox Park Athletics Centre, Meagan also helped deliver the club's Women's Only Program, an initiative designed to make triathlon more accessible.
"We wanted to create a space where women could learn about triathlon, train together, and build confidence in a safe, supportive environment," she says. "Watching them achieve the final goal of completing a triathlon event was truly inspiring."
Whether it's parkrun or triathlon, Meagan says the hardest part is simply showing up. "The hardest step is often just putting on your shoes and getting out the door - but once you do, the support and encouragement from those around you makes the rest so much easier."
There are inclusive, welcoming activities across Knox for women, girls and non-binary people - whether you're just starting out or looking for something new. Explore what's out there and find your way to get active and connect with others at Knox Girls Can .
