Caravan maker hitches up to ultra-marathon event

Ultra-distance runner Alex Barbas will enjoy the comforts of a 22ft Snowy River caravan, at least at night, during a marathon 7800km journey on foot that kicks off today.

Barbas is hoping to raise $780,000 during the run, in support of the Starlight Children’s Foundation, with Mazda also supplying an optioned-up BT-50 ute to tow the Snowy River SRT22F Multi-Terrain caravan from Sydney to Perth and back.

The 33-year-old property worker says on the Alex's Out and Back website that it's the first time anyone has attempted to run across Australia and back.

"For every kilometre I run, I'm aiming to raise $100. Reaching our goal will allow us to support over 20,000 sick children across Australia, bringing them joy and hope during incredibly challenging times," he says.

Barbas is no stranger to aching calves and blisters, having run 50km for 50 days in a row in 2024. He will have a core support team of four people including a medic for the duration of the run, which he hopes to complete by early December.

He plans to run around 80-90km and consume around 9000 calories each day, and go through seven pairs of running shoes during the record-breaking attempt.

The Snowy River support van should stand out on the road with its instantly recognisable Starlight Purple decals, while the dual-cab ute is loaded up with genuine Mazda accessories.

“At Snowy River Caravans, we believe in journeys that inspire and make a difference. Supporting Alex on this incredible challenge reflects our values of adventure, resilience, and community,” Snowy River Caravans' CEO Andrew Crank said.

You can follow the epic run on social media, or donate by heading to the Out and Back Run website.

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