NIMBIN isn’t the town you’d usually associate with athletic prowess and personal fitness, but second-generation local girl Cassandra Jefferys hopes to change that.

Ms Jefferys, a former athlete and personal trainer who runs the Discover Fitness Gym at Nimbin Showground, has organised an inaugural 5km fun run on Sunday, August 29, to raise funds for new gym equipment.

There are cash prizes for first and second for men and women, and adults and juniors, but the run will be more about a community day out with a range of organised activities and catering.

“If people want to compete seriously that’s fine, but it’s really about getting out in this beautiful winter weather and having some fun,” she said.

“We also have prizes for the most outrageously dressed and everyone is welcome to walk the route. That’s why it’s called a fun run.

“People have asked me what’s fun about running, but it will be a great day out for the whole community.”

Ms Jefferys said growing up somewhat isolated on a self-sufficient farm outside Nimbin had a strong bearing on her decision to take on the local gym.

She’d always had a passion for health and fitness through athletics and gymnastics, but said it was difficult to find outlets for her interest in the area.

“Most of my generation moved away, but I love this area andalways wanted to come home,” she said.

Lismore mayor Jenny Dowell will be holding the starter’s pistol for the day and promises to follow up the rear at a leisurely gait.

“I don’t run,” she said laughing. “Not in this old body.

“I’m really looking forward to the day. Cassandra has done a fantastic job and I hope it is a great success.”

Anyone interested in joining in for a good cause should call Ms Jefferys on 6689 1405.