Melbourne Frequently Asked Questions

MELBOURNE FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

 When do entries close?

  • Early bird entries close: NOW CLOSED
  • Online entries close: 12 noon on Wednesday 9 May 2012.
  • Mailed entries close: 5.00pm on Friday 4 May 2012.
  • Large team entries paying in bulk are now closed. You can still join a team paying as an individual (refer to Teams below for more details).
  • Late entries: are available at Alexandra Gardens at the following times:
    • Saturday 12 May 2012 from 10am – 3.00pm
    • Sunday 13 May 2002 (event day) from 6.15am (arrive early to avoid the queues). 

I have sent my entry in but haven’t heard anything - has my entry been accepted?

Event information kits will commence to be sent out in the week commencing Monday 19 March 2012. If you enter before this date please allow 2 – 3 weeks for your pack to arrive. If after this time you are concerned about your entry, call the Event Hotline on 03 9285 0600.

What is included in my event information kit?

Your event information kit will include your race number, participant information booklet, timing tag (runners only) and tribute card (if you requested one during registration).

I registered online AFTER 9.00am on Friday 4 May – how will I get my race kit?

If you entered online AFTER 9.00am on Friday 4 May 2012 you will need to go to the race numbers marquee at Alexandra Gardens to pick up your race number and / or timing tag. You can do this on Saturday 12 May between 10.00am and 3.00pm OR on the morning of the event from 6.15am onwards.

I am a runner, will my timing tag be sent to me with my event information kit?

Yes. Please note only runners will receive a timing tag. Walkers are not timed.

I am entering a large team and making ONE bulk payment for all team members. What do I do to enter?

Please note that team entries (where you are paying for all team member registrations in one bulk payment) are NOW CLOSED. So what do you do now? Refer below:

Please click here to register using the standard online system, also note that you can enter up to 10 adults and 10 children during one transaction. Just ensure to add your team name as instructed below!

If you are entering as part of a team and each member is paying individually, please enter via the online registration system. The first team member to register (usually the team coordinator) will be required to create the team during registration. Once this is done (and the individual who is creating the team has made paid for their registration) the team name will automatically appear in the team drop down box when “team” is selected by new team members when they are registering. Make sure you give all potential team members the name and correct spelling of the team you have set up. Please ensure your team members select your team name when prompted to do so. It is imperative that this is done during the registration process.

Can I change the event I am in?

Yes, but you must let us know via email at melbourne@starttofinish.com.au or phone on 03 9285 0600.  If you decide to change your event on the day, please go to the race numbers marquee at Alexandra Gardens so they can record the change. See below for requirements of changing events.

Changing from walk to run

It is imperative you let us know as you need to be issued with a new event number and a timing tag. You will be charged an additional $9 for your new race number and / or timing tag (please note it is mandatory that all runners wear a timing tag).

Changing from run to walk

You will keep the same race number but will need to hand back your timing tag if you have already been mailed one. Please bring it with you and hand it in at the registration marquee on the day or alternatively please mail it back to the address below by Friday 25 May 2012 with your name and race number clearly outlined.

Melbourne Mother’s Day Classic – 12 Rocklea Drive, Port Melbourne VIC 3207

Changing distances only

Run – It is imperative you let us know as we will need to update our records. You will retain the same race number and timing tag.

Walk – No need to advise us, just depart at the correct walk start time and complete either one or two laps of the course, according to your distance chosen.

What if I lose my race number or timing tag?

Walkers - Please collect another race number from the race numbers marquee in the assembly area on the morning of the event for an additional fee of $5.

Runners – Please collect another race number and timing tag from the race numbers marquee in the assembly area on the morning of the event. There will be an additional charge of $15 total for replacement of the race number + timing tag.

 All participants must wear a race number. Anyone without a race number will not be permitted to start the event.

I have received my event information kit but not my merchandise?

Event information kits and event merchandise are sent separately. For merchandise queries please refer to the merchandise contact details here.

What will the entry show on my credit card?

Your credit card statement will show ‘WIS Mothers Day Clc’.

Can I enter on the day of the event?

Yes, on day registrations open at 6.15am. Please head to the entries marquee at Alexandra Gardens to enter on the day.

You can also enter in person on the Saturday prior to the event (Saturday 7 May) at the entries marquee at Alexandra Gardens between 10am and 3.00pm.

* Please note that the early bird entry fee ends at 5.00pm on Wednesday 11 April 2012.

What time does the event start?

6:15am                        Registration opens
7:00am                        Memorial minute of silence - runners
7:02am                        Warm-up aerobics commences for 4km runners
7:30am                        4km run starts – first wave
7:45am                        4km run starts – second wave
7:45am                        Warm-up aerobics commences for 8km runners
8:15am                        8km run starts – first wave
8:20am                        8km run starts – second wave
8:40am                        Memorial minute of silence - walkers
8:42am                        Warm-up aerobics commences for walkers
9:30am                        Light pink walker wave starts
10:00am                      Blue walker wave starts
10:30am                      Green walker wave starts
1.00pm                        Presentations and formalities finish

What should I wear?

Walkers - Normal street clothes and a comfortable pair of shoes.

Runners - Comfortable running gear and shoes.

Please remember to dress according to the weather – i.e. hat and sunscreen or rain jacket, etc.

What time will the aerobic warm-up start?

The aerobic warm up will commence at 7.02am for 4km runners, 7.45am for 8km runners and 8.42am for all walkers. The warm-up will take place in front of the main stage in the assembly area at Alexandra Gardens.

What happens on the main stage?

A number of delegates, celebrities and sponsors will be appearing / presenting on the main stage. The main stage will also be used for the memorial minute of silence, warm-up aerobics and team presentations.

Has the course changed?

The start line will remain in the same location as last year on Alexandra Avenue near the Pillars of Wisdom. The finish line will be on St Kilda Road. Participants will follow the course around The Tan in a clockwise direction.

How long will it take to walk the courses?

4km     about 45 to 55 minutes
8km     about 90 to 120 minutes

Can I bring my pet dog to walk the course with me?

No. For safety reasons, animals are not permitted on the course.

Can I ride my bike alongside my friend who is running?

No. For safety reasons, bikes, scooters and rollerblades are prohibited on the course.

Can I bring my pram?

Prams are permitted on the course, however entrants who bring along a pram will be required to start at the rear of their group.

I have a toddler, do they have to pay?

Children under 4 are not required to pay the entry fee. However, it is a fundraising event and money raised does go towards breast cancer research.

What time does the event finish?

Presentations for the 4km run will commence at 8.15am and the 8km run at 9.00am. The run presentations will be conducted on the finish line stage.

The event usually finishes around 12 noon, but many people stay around and enjoy a picnic lunch.

Will there be trophies and medals awarded?

  • All participants receive a 2012 medallion, which cleverly converts to a key ring and lanyard.
  • Male and female winners and placegetters of the 4km and 8km run events will each receive a trophy.
  • Age category medals for 4km and 8km runs will be mailed to winners of each age category after the event. Age categories - U15, U18, 18-29, 30-39, 40-49, 50-59, 60-69, 70-79, 80+.
  • School teams - Trophies awarded to the largest school team from a school with 500 or more students and a school team with less than 500 students.
  • Largest corporate team wins a magnificent trophy.
  • Tertiary Team Award - the largest tertiary team from Victoria will receive a magnificent trophy.
  • Highest individual fundraiser in Victoria - the individual raising the most money will win domestic flights to the value of $1000 kindly provided by QANTAS.
  • Spot prizes - all participants are eligible to win great spot prizes including weekend packages, meals and gift baskets.

What time are the award presentations?

The run presentation ceremonies will be held on the main stage at the following times:

  • 4km runners at 8.15am
  • 8km runners at 9.00am
  • Team awards and presentations will be held on the main stage in the assembly area from 11.30am.

Can I pick up my show bag before I walk or run?

Participants can only collect their show bag after they have completed their walk or run.

Where can I leave my bag?

Please note that the clothing storage area has changed this year to a bag drop. Participant clothing will be placed in individual storage areas during the event. Participants should attach the tear-off strip on the bottom of your event number to your backpack or plastic clothing bag by looping one end of the tag through the hole. When you drop your clothing off, an attendant will write the storage area on your race number. Please keep your event number as you will need it for bag pick up when you finish. Please do not leave valuables in your bags. The Mother’s Day Classic will take all care, but no responsibility, for valuables or clothing that are lost or damaged. Any clothing not collected on the day or left at the start line will be given to charity.

Bikes cannot be checked into the bag drop.

Where can I leave my bike?

Bicycle racks will be located at Boathouse Drive. Please bring a lock – we will not be responsible for the security of bikes.

Where can I park?

Car parking is extremely limited. It is strongly recommended you car pool to the event and arrive early to guarantee a park.

  • Arts Centre car park is open 24hrs for a flat rate of $14
  • Southgate (access from City Road or Southgate Avenue) is open 24hrs for a flat rate of $8
  • Federation Square car park is open from 8am for a flat rate of $12

Please adhere to parking restrictions if parking on the streets.

What roads will be closed?

The following roads will be closed between 5am – 1pm on Sunday 13 May 2012:

  • St Kilda Road southbound between Flinders St and Linlithgow Ave;
  • Alexandra Ave between Punt Rd and the Swan St Bridge;
  • Linlithgow Ave from Alexandra Ave to St Kilda Rd and Government House Drive;
  • Birdwood Ave between Government House Dve and Anderson St;
  • Domain Rd between Birdwood Ave and Anderson St;
  • Anderson St between Domain Rd and Alexandra Ave;
  • Dallas Brooks Drive;
  • Walsh Street;
  • Boathouse Drive.

Please note: Traffic travelling both ways on Alexandra Avenue may experience delays between 7:15am – 11.30am. Vehicles will be held at intervals to allow for participants to cross the road to get to the start line. Please avoid this area where possible.

What public transport options are there?

Train

Disembark at Flinders Street Station and take the Swanston Street exit from the station and turn right. Marshals will be present to direct you to the assembly area at Alexandra Gardens. You can also disembark at Richmond Station and walk up Swan Street to the start line.

Further information is available from www.metlinkmelbourne.com.au

Tram

Tram numbers 3, 5, 6, 8, 16, 64, 67 & 72 all travel down St Kilda Road. Disembark at the Arts Centre and cross the road to Alexandra Gardens.

Further information is available from www.metlinkmelbourne.com.au

Please note: public transport will run on a Sunday timetable on event day – be sure to check your service times to ensure you arrive in time for your run or walk start. 

Will there be a drop off zone?

There will be an accessible drop-off point on event day on St. Kilda Road in front of the Art Centre. St. Kilda Road will be closed for Southbound traffic. All traffic wishing to use the accessible drop-off point must approach from the northbound lanes.

Disabled parking is available at the Arts Centre car park.

Where will the toilets be?

The toilets are located on Boathouse Drive, adjacent to the boatsheds. There will be toilets located on Alexandra Avenue, just past Swan Street Bridge, on the way to the start line. A small number of toilets will also be located on the course.

Where will the first-aid stations be located?

First-aid stations will be located at the assembly area, finish line, and at four locations on the course. There will also be a roving bike crew.

Where will the drink stations be?

Water will be provided in Alexandra Gardens, on the course and on the finish line.

Locations of drink stations on the course:

4km run/walk – approx 2km and 3.5km

8km run/walk – approx 2km, 3.5km, 4.5km, 6km, 7.5km

Is there a baby change / feeding area?

Yes, there will be a baby change and feed marquee in the main assembly area.

Will there be massage?

Free pre and post-race massage will be available at the assembly area.

Where do you pick up the MDC medallion and other event goodies?

Once you have completed your event, please return to Alexandra Gardens to collect your Mother’s Day Classic medallion, show bag and event goodies, kindly donated by our sponsors.

Where can I find out my results?

Results will be available for the Melbourne event on the Mother’s Day Classic website on Tuesday 15 May 2012. Remember, only runners will be timed.

Can I get a tribute card if I didn’t order one?

Yes, you can pick up your tribute card on event day from one of the information marquees at Alexandra Gardens. You can also download one from the website.

Are there any food vendors?

A variety of food options will be available on the day, including a coffee cart, sausage sizzle and other food snacks and drinks.

What happens if I forget to return my timing tag at the finish line?

If you take your timing tag home with you after the event please mail it back by Friday 25 May 2012 to the below address:

Melbourne Mother’s Day Classic – 12 Rocklea Drive, Port Melbourne VIC 3207

Failure to return your timing tag will result in a $50 charge for its replacement.

What charity do the proceeds go to?                                                              

All proceeds from the event go to the National Breast Cancer Foundation.
Any donations of more than $2 are tax deductible (entry fee is not a donation).

How much of the money raised goes to the National Breast Cancer Foundation?                                                              

Every dollar that you donate or fundraise and more than two thirds of your registration goes to the National Breast Cancer Foundation. This is used for research projects aimed at improving the detection, treatment and outcomes for those who are affected by breast cancer.

Because there are costs associated with managing and staging the events across Australia, part of your ticket price together with support from our corporate sponsors goes towards their payment.

 In 2011 your combined efforts and the generosity of our sponsors enabled us to give $3 million to the National Breast Cancer Foundation (NBCF) for its research programs. That made it a cumulative total of $10.8 million since the event began in 1998.

If I cannot attend the event can I get a refund?

Unfortunately, we are unable to offer refunds for the event.

Is my registration tax deductible?

Donations and funds raised from sponsorship are tax deductible (if over $2), but your registration is not tax deductible.

While the majority of your registration payment goes to the National Breast Cancer Foundation, you are participating in an event and thus receiving a service. This means that event registration does not qualify as a tax deduction.

The Mother’s Day Classic is a morning to get together and do something healthy with family and friends and to celebrate and support those who have been affected by breast cancer.  It’s also about raising money for the research that will defeat it.

Prize for top fundraiser