Paediatric brain cancer remains one of the most devastating illnesses affecting children and young people, impacting not only patients but their families and communities. Supporting research, improving treatment, and creating better outcomes for young people with brain cancer are essential to changing the future.
The Robert Connor Dawes Foundation was established in memory of Robert Connor Dawes, who lost his battle with brain cancer at just 18 years old. The Foundation works to improve outcomes for children and young people affected by brain cancer by supporting research, clinical care, and initiatives that make a meaningful difference to patients and their families.
One of its flagship fundraising events is Connor’s Run, an event that has grown since its inception in 2013 to become Australia’s largest event dedicated to paediatric brain cancer. Connor’s Run Melbourne 2026 will take place on Sunday, 13 September 2026, with the course running from Bayside to the Boatsheds. Participants can also take part through Your Way Any Day, allowing people anywhere in the world to participate throughout the month of September.
Described as “a fun run that isn’t about running or winning,” Connor’s Run is centered on community, remembrance, and raising vital funds for paediatric brain cancer. The event celebrates the life of Robert Connor Dawes while bringing together participants who want to support children and young people facing this devastating disease. Whether participating in Melbourne or completing the event from anywhere in the world, every contribution helps the Robert Connor Dawes Foundation continue its work supporting brain cancer research and improving outcomes for young patients.
Join Connor’s Run here and help turn community participation into meaningful support for children and young people affected by paediatric brain cancer.
More Fun Than Run
Connor’s Run Melbourne: Sunday September 13, 2026.
Bayside to the Boatsheds
Your Way Any Day: Whole month of September, anywhere in the worldA FUN RUN THAT ISN’T ABOUT
Running or Winning
Since its inception in 2013, Connor’s Run has become Australia’s largest event for paediatric brain cancer, celebrating and commemorating the life of Robert Connor Dawes who lost his battle with brain cancer at just 18 years of age.