Tickets & Registration
Tickets & Registration
Why do you require a unique email address for Adult tickets?
Each adult ticket needs a unique email so you can:
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Log in to your event dashboard and fundraising page
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Manage your personal details and ticket information
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Receive confirmation emails and important event updates
Using a unique email also helps us recognise returning participants and connect you to your past fundraising efforts – if you choose to activate your account.
Child and concession tickets don’t need their own email – you can opt to manage them under your account during registration.
Why are run tickets more expensive than walk tickets at Major Events?
Run tickets at Major Events (like Melbourne, Sydney, Brisbane, and others) include official timing services as part of the experience.
Your ticket includes:
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A timing chip attached to your race bib
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A personal result via SMS after your run
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Access to a downloadable finisher certificate with your time and distance
These services are covered in the run ticket price and are only available at our Major locations.
Do I need to register toddlers?
Children under 3 don’t need a ticket – you’re welcome to bring them along on the day without registering.
However, if you’d like them to receive a race bib (for photos or keepsakes), or take part in a personalised bib promotion or Kids Go Free offer, they’ll need to be registered as a child (ages 3–12) during the ticketing process.
Why should I activate my registration?
Activating your registration unlocks your full Mother's Day Classic experience. You’ll be able to:
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Personalise your fundraising page and message
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Share your page with friends and family
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Update your emergency contact details
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Earn badges and track your progress
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Appear on your team’s page
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Access exclusive resources
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Be eligible for fundraising competitions
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Stay informed with event updates
It only takes a moment – and helps you make the most of your impact!
Can I register onsite on the day?
We recommend registering online in advance – it’s the best way to secure your spot, save on fees, and take part in our special competitions and promotions in the lead-up to Mother’s Day.
If your event isn’t sold out, on-the-day registrations may be available – but wave times can fill quickly.
Check your event page to see what’s still open and for details on on-the-day pricing.
To avoid missing out, we always suggest registering early.
I’m having trouble registering – can you help?
Absolutely – we're here for you! Before reaching out, try these quick tips that resolve most common issues:
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Use a unique email address for every adult ticket. Children or concession tickets don’t need one – just tick “I wish to manage this account.”
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Switch browsers or devices. If you’re stuck, try again on Chrome, Firefox, or a different device. Often this fixes display or loading issues.
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Check for red error messages. These will highlight fields that need attention – like a start time that’s sold out or a birthdate that doesn’t match ticket type.
If it’s still not working, submit a support request with a quick description of the issue. Our team will get back to you during business hours.
Where does my registration fee go?
The Mother's Day Classic Foundation (MDCF) raises lifesaving funds through community fundraising, merchandise sales, online donations and registration fees for the event. Once event administration costs have been deducted, proceeds are donated to the National Breast Cancer Foundation (NBCF) and the Ovarian Cancer Research Foundation (OCRF).
Participants in the 2026 MDC event will be provided with the option of participating in support of and fundraising for breast cancer research, ovarian cancer research or both. The MDCF will determine the donation to be made to each of the National Breast Cancer Foundation and the Ovarian Cancer Research Foundation from the net proceeds of the 2026 MDC event in accordance with the selection of MDC event participants.
MDCF endeavours to keep costs low so as much as possible can be donated. We rely on sponsorship, in-kind support and volunteers in order to help subsidise these costs so we can maximise our donation to research. To-date, the Mother's Day Classic has donated $48.23 million dollars to the NBCF and $2.57 million dollars to the OCRF
For more information, head to our Where Your Money Goes page.
Do you have companion card holder discounts available?
Yes we do! Please submit a support request and let us know what event you would like to request a discount for (ie. Mother's Day Classic Brisbane).
One of our team members will contact you during business hours with a unique, single-use promo code that you can apply at the end of the registration process.
Have a different ticket or registration question?
If you can’t find your answer above, try asking our friendly chatbot Daisy — she can help with registrations, teams, bibs, and more, 24/7.
If Daisy can’t solve it, pop your details in this form and our Customer Experience team will get back to you as quickly as possible.
Start Times and Distances
Can I change my start time, distance, or whether I’m walking or running?
Yes – but how and when you make the change depends on what you're updating:
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Changing your start time or wave?
You can request this up to one week before event day by submitting our participant help form. We'll do our best to accommodate your preferred time, depending on availability. -
Changing your distance or whether you’re walking or running?
You can also submit a request via the help form up to one week before event day.
Then on the day, visit the registration desk to collect your replacement bib. If you’re switching to a run at a Major Event, a $6 fee applies to cover your new timing tag and bib.
Any changes made within a week of the event – or on the day itself – will need to be handled at the registration desk and may be subject to availability.
Please note: personalised bibs won’t be available for any changes made after the print deadline or on event day.
To check which start times or distances are full, visit the events page and select your location.
What is the “Embrace and Honour Walk”?
The Embrace and Honour Walk is a special moment at selected events where we invite those who have been personally affected by breast or ovarian cancer – including those diagnosed, their families, friends, or supporters – to walk together at the front of the wave.
This walk begins with a moment of reflection to acknowledge the strength and connection of our MDC community.
Previously known as the Stronger Together or Survivor Wave, the name was updated to better reflect the diversity of experiences and feedback from our community.
To see if your location is offering an Embrace and Honour Walk and moment of silence, view the full list of event locations.
Do you offer timing services for runners and where can I find my results?
Yes – timing services are available for participants registered in a Run event at our Major locations, including:
Melbourne, Sydney, Brisbane, Canberra, Adelaide, Perth, Darwin, Parramatta, Hobart, Geelong and Gold Coast.
If you're registered as a runner at one of these events, you'll receive a link via SMS from our timing partner, Tomato Timing, to access your result.
You can also find the same link on our website after the event, where you’ll be able to download your official certificate with your time and distance.
Have a different start time or distance question?
If you can’t find your answer above, try asking our friendly chatbot Daisy — she can help with registrations, teams, bibs, and more, 24/7.
If Daisy can’t solve it, pop your details in this form and our Customer Experience team will get back to you as quickly as possible.
MDC Melbourne Half Marathon
Is fundraising required for the MDC Melbourne Half Marathon?
Yes - we’re inviting all MDC Melbourne Half Marathon participants to pledge to raise a minimum of $500 for breast cancer research, ovarian cancer research or both.
Can I register for the MDC Melbourne Half-Marathon on behalf of another person?
Is there a minimum age or running experience required?
Yes, to take part in the MDC Melbourne Half Marathon, participants must be at least 16 years old on event day. Whether it’s your first Half or you’ve done a few before, we encourage everyone to feel prepared to complete the 21.1 km course within the 3-hour time limit. This means maintaining an average pace of around 7 km/h (or roughly 8:30 mins per km). We’ll have training guides and community support to help you feel confident and ready on the day!
Can I run the MDC Melbourne Half Marathon as part of a team?
Yes! You can create a Half Marathon team or start a team that includes friends and family walking or running other distances. Registrations for all other Mother's Day Classic events open in February 2026.
What is included in my registration for the MDC Melbourne Half Marathon?
*A limited-edition AIA tech tee
*Race bib with timing chip
*Finisher’s medal
*Digital finisher's certificate
You’ll also find food vendors, entertainment, and recovery stations at the event village. Hydration stations will be available on-course, however, we recommend bringing your own hydration and nutrition if you have specific needs and wearing sunscreen and comfy shoes!
Will you still be offering the 4km, 8km and 12km distances in Melbourne?
Yes – all your favourite Melbourne distances will still be part of the Mother’s Day Classic in 2026! We’re especially excited to introduce a new and improved 12km run course, featuring a scenic route along the Yarra River and finishing at our vibrant event village in Alexandra Gardens. Whether you're walking with family, running with mates, or cheering from the sidelines – there's something for everyone.
Will the MDC Melbourne Half Marathon be timed?
Yes - all MDC Melbourne Half Marathon participants will receive an official chip time, along with a digital finisher’s certificate to mark your achievement. For event day, the first person to cross the finish line will be acknowledged as the official event winner, regardless of chip time.
Are prams and wheelchairs allowed to be used in the Melbourne Half Marathon and 12km run?
We want everyone to feel welcome and supported at the Mother’s Day Classic, while also keeping participants safe on course.
Due to the narrow and undulating nature of the MDC Melbourne Half Marathon and 12km run routes, racing wheelchairs are not permitted. Standard or day wheelchairs and prams are welcome, but we kindly ask that participants using them start from the final wave of the event. This helps ensure everyone has the space they need and can move safely along the course.
Prams and all types of wheelchairs are welcome in our 4km and 8km events in Melbourne and at other events throughout the country.
Are there drink stations, toilets, or first aid along the course?
Absolutely. Hydration stations, toilets, and first aid support will be available throughout the course. Final course map and station locations will be released closer to the event here.
Will photos be taken on course?
Yes, we’ve partnered with NORTHSOUTH LIVE to deliver your personal photo gallery on the same day as the event — straight to your phone. Every purchase makes a difference with 25% of photo sales going directly towards the fundraising effort. You’ll receive an SMS with a private link to your photos shortly after you cross the finish line. And don’t forget — use code MUM20 on event day to save 20% on your photos (valid until midnight Sunday 10 May 2026).
How do I receive my bib and MDC Melbourne Half Marathon t-shirt?
If you registered before February 2026, your Half Marathon pack - including your Race Bib and Tee - will be mailed to you and should arrive in late March 2026.
If you registered after February 2026, your pack will still be mailed - just allow 3 to 4 weeks from your registration date for it to arrive.
Keep an eye on your mailbox, and if it hasn’t arrived within 4 weeks, feel free to get in touch.
How do you determine winners for the Half Marathon?
The Mother’s Day Classic Half Marathon is a community event - not a competitive race - so there’s no official prize money or awards.
That said, we know some of you love a little friendly challenge! The “first past the post” in each distance will be celebrated informally based on who crosses the finish line first - not by chip time.
If you're aiming for glory (or bragging rights!), we recommend starting in the first wave of your chosen distance.
Is there a walking option for the MDC Melbourne Half Marathon?
If you need to take a breather, of course you're welcome to walk some of it but you need to be able to complete the 21.1 km course within the 3-hour time limit. This means maintaining an average pace of around 7 km/h (or roughly 8:30 mins per km) (which requires some fast walking) We’ll have training guides and community support to help you feel confident and ready on the day!
Will my name be on my bib for the MDC Melbourne Half Marathon?
Yes, names bib will be provided for MDC Melbourne Half Marathon registrations received before 12th March 2026.
What is the sizing for the MDC Melbourne Half Marathon T-Shirt?
All MDC Melbourne Half Marathon participants will receive a special event tech t-shirt, proudly provided by our Principal Partner AIA Australia.
Material: 100% polyester interlock, 150gsm (lightweight, breathable, and perfect for running or walking).
Sizing: Standard unisex fit – women may prefer their usual unisex size or one size smaller
Please note: - Quantities are limited in each size. - Once a size runs out, the next size up will be provided.
No exchanges are available, so please choose your size carefully when registering.
We encourage you to wear your MDC Melbourne Half Marathon t-shirt on event day - it’s a great way to show your support and be part of the MDC community on the start line!
Do you accept Companion Card holder support registrations for the MDC Melbourne Half Marathon?
If you are running to assist someone who is unable to participate without you, then please reach out our Customer Experience teamhere
Is the course accredited?
Not in its first year. The course is not formally accredited for 2026, but we’re open to exploring accreditation in future years based on participant feedback and demand.
Have a different MDC Melbourne Half Marathon question?
If you can’t find your answer above, try asking our friendly chatbot Daisy — she can help with registrations, teams, bibs, and more, 24/7.
If Daisy can’t solve it, pop your details in this form and our Customer Experience team will get back to you as quickly as possible.
