What’s happening?
HeartKids’ annual Two Feet & A Heartbeat walk will take place at Kershaw Gardens, Rockhampton on Sunday 12 October 2025. The walk is part of a nationwide campaign running from 18 October to 4 November across 31 locations, with both in-person and virtual options available.
Participants are invited to walk 4km in honour of the four young lives lost each week to childhood-onset heart disease (CoHD), or 8km to mark the eight babies born every day with a heart condition in Australia.
Why it matters
The event raises funds for HeartKids’ support services and programs, which provide care for families in hospitals, communities and rural and regional areas. These services include in-hospital support, family programs, financial assistance, education days and peer connections.
HeartKids CEO Marcus Sandmann said, “I encourage you to join Two Feet & A Heartbeat and walk with us to support our heart families with in-hospital services, family support programs and other vital resources.”
He added, “Two Feet & A Heartbeat brings together families, friends and volunteers to remember those who have passed away from childhood-onset heart disease as well as celebrate children living with a heart condition. It is an event that raises awareness and hope for the families that are affected by heart disease.”
Local impact
For Rockhampton families, the walk is a chance to honour local children and carers affected by CoHD, while also ensuring regional Queensland remains included in vital national support programs. The funds raised help bring services directly to families in regional communities like Rockhampton.
By the numbers
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Four young lives are lost every week to childhood-onset heart disease.
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Eight babies are born each day in Australia with a heart condition.
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250,000 Australians live with CoHD, with an estimated 1 million people including families and carers impacted.
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The economic burden of CoHD is valued at $2.292 billion annually, including $12.89 million lost GDP each year.
Zoom in
The Rockhampton walk will highlight the resilience of local families while building solidarity with thousands nationwide. Participants can walk, donate, sponsor a walker or join the virtual option, ensuring no one misses the opportunity to contribute.
Zoom out
With 31 locations involved, from Brisbane and Townsville to Perth and Hobart, this national movement shines a spotlight on CoHD and the need for ongoing community awareness and funding.
What to look for next
HeartKids will continue to expand its reach, with future walks and events aiming to bring more families together. Registrations for Rockhampton and other locations are available at twofeetheartbeat.org.au.
