Rockhampton encouraged to walk with heart this Sunday for Heartkids
Published on 07 October 2025
Rockhampton locals are encouraged to lace up their walking shoes this Sunday and walk with heart for the annual Two Feet and a Heartbeat Walk at Kershaw Gardens, Rockhampton.
Coordinated by Heartkids, the event brings together families, friends, and supporters of children with congenital heart disease (CHD) to walk four kilometres, in honour of the four lives lost each week to the disease.
Rockhampton Regional Council Communities, Culture and Heritage Councillor Drew Wickerson said Council was proud to support the event with $2,000 from the Community Assistance Program.
“The Community Assistance Program is more than just providing funds for events – it’s about connecting people and supporting the organisations behind them,” Cr Wickerson said.
“We encourage the community to support the Two Feet and a Heartbeat walk as all funds raised go to support ‘heart families’.
“We urge community groups and non-profits to consider this program which is currently open for grant applications.
“While we support sporting and cultural events, we also provide funds to non-profit groups who are working hard to deliver vital services for families who are hurting and need a hand up.”
After receiving Heartkids’ support when she was in need, Rockhampton mum Cara Jackson is the local coordinator of the annual Two Feet and Heartbeat, to ensure other families get the same help.
“My daughter Eden, now 11, was born with a rare condition called Double Inlet Left Ventricle – essentially half a heart. Diagnosed during a routine 20-week scan, Eden has undergone three major heart surgeries, including the life-saving Fontan procedure,” Mrs Jackson said.
“HeartKids has been with us every step of the way.
“When Eden was just six weeks old and went into heart failure, we were flown to Brisbane for emergency surgery. I was alone, scared, and hadn’t eaten – HeartKids gave me frozen meals so I could stay by her side. That simple act made me feel seen and supported.”
Eden’s journey is marked by her collection of HeartBeads – each one representing a procedure, a moment of bravery, and a chapter in her story.
“She proudly shows them to people. They’re a symbol of her strength and courage,” Mrs Jackson said.
“For many families, this day is emotional.
“Some walk in memory of their heart angels - this year’s ambassador Kristie Jensen will walk with her son Leon, also a Heartkid, to honour her son Jeffrey who passed away from a heart condition.”
HeartKids CEO Marcus Sandmann says Two Feet & A Heartbeat is a vital event for the 250,000 children, teens, and adults – and countless family members and carers – affected by childhood-onset heart disease (CoHD).
“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,” Mr Sandmann said.
The event commences from 8am on Sunday 12 October at Kershaw Gardens, with the walk starting at 9am, and lots of fun including arts and crafts, facepainting, a bake sale, sausage sizzle, Tazzina Cafe Coffee 4U2U mobile coffee vans, and Indian food provided by GGs Indian Kitchen, who generously donate all profits from the day to Heartkids.
To register, to donate or sponsor a walker and for more information, please visit:
https://twofeetheartbeat.org.au/
For more information visit the Heartkids Australia Facebook page.
The Community Assistance Program supports non-profit community-based organisations with funding for grants and sponsorships towards projects and events that enhance the region’s well-being. Round 2 for 2025/26 is open now and closes Monday 3 November.
For more information and how to apply, contact Council Community Services on 4936 8368 or visit our website.