Anytime Fitness in Orange will run a treadmill challenge as part of White Balloon Day run by children’s protection organisation Bravehearts during Child Protection Week in September.

Gym owner Pip Sanders said she will make a donation for every kilometre members walk or run on the treadmills between Monday, September 5 and Friday, September 9. 

“I’ve been a member of Bravehearts for a little while and I think it’s a good cause to protect little children,” Ms Sanders said.

“I’ve got children and I don’t think anyone likes children being preyed upon and I think any way to protect them is good.”

Ms Sanders is yet to decide how much the gym will donate per kilometre but expects to donate thousands of dollars to the cause and will also encourage members to donate leading up to the treadmill challenge.

Club manager Megan Griffin said the club supports several charities and last year held a 24 hour treadmill challenge to support mental health and felt this was another worthy cause.

“I was a teacher for 10 years in early childhood so childhood protection feels very close to my heart,” Miss Griffin said. 

Although this will be the first time the gym is participating, September 9 will be the 20^th annual White Balloon Day run by Bravehearts, which was set up to prevent child abuse. 

Money raised from White Balloon Day events will go towards education and training programs as well as specialist support and counselling for affected children and their families.

Bravehearts Founder Hetty Johnston AM said more than 60,000 children are affected by abuse each year.

“White Balloon Day is about encouraging people from all corners of the community to step up for these kids, raising awareness and funds to enable the continued delivery of vital support and prevention programs, while giving kids the confidence to come forward and break the silence,” Ms Johnson said.