This incredible journey aimed to be a beacon of hope for those who believe in a brighter future for foster care.

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Wayne’s run was highlighted by the company of the Honourable Pat Farmer AM, a former Federal Member of Parliament and renowned ultra-marathon runner.

Pat Farmer, named Australian Adventurer of the Year in 2012, has raised millions of dollars worldwide for various causes through his endurance running.

His participation in Wayne’s mission underscored the significance of the cause.

Wayne’s story is one of resilience and transformation.

In early childhood, he suffered severe violence, abuse, and torture at the hands of his mother’s boyfriend.

By the age of six, child welfare services removed him from his mother’s care, leaving him feeling like damaged goods.

The trauma he endured made it difficult for him to find long-term foster care, leading to a tumultuous upbringing.

Wayne shared that his experience growing up was “soul-destroying and never-ending”.

“I eventually turned to alcohol as an escape and became not just an alcoholic but one with a bad temper.”

From his twenties into his forties, Wayne found himself frequently in the custody of Correctional Services NSW, committing various offences.

Although he didn’t initially believe in the rehabilitation programs offered to him, a seed was planted during his incarceration, and he began to view his life through a different lens.

It was during this time that Wayne discovered running.

Running became his escape and freedom, helping him build physical, emotional and mental strength.

Wayne started distancing himself from the negative influences of prison life and decided he wanted to give back through running.

He chose to raise awareness for the foster care system, aiming to educate people about what it was, what it is now, and what it could be in the future.

Wayne departed from Kempsey Court House on Friday 20 June, passing and stopping through a number of areas to speak and concluded his journey at the Sydney Opera House on Thursday 27 June.

This monumental run symbolised a journey of hope and redemption, drawing attention to the needs and potential of the foster care system.

According to the Office of the Children’s Guardian NSW, approximately 14,300 children live in various forms of foster care in New South Wales.

Wayne Curran’s run served as a powerful reminder of the challenges these children face and the collective responsibility to ensure a better future for them.

By Luke HADFIELD