It is time to rediscover our own backyard and experience the beauty and challenge that the Murray River provides.

Every year between December 27th and 31st, hundreds of paddlers descend on the Murray River to experience the beauty of the River, the camaraderie of friends and the challenge of paddling 404km from Yarrawonga to Swan Hill.

For so many Australians, the water plays an important part of our lives and factors strongly in our childhood, our recreation and livelihood. It is now time to rediscover the joy of being on the river, to set and achieve a new goal and to live the experience of Australia's most famous river.

The Red Cross Murray Marathon provides the ultimate opportunity for everyone to rediscover their sense of adventure and the waterways of their very own backyard. With a little bit of planning and the right preparation, The Murray Marathon is an event that everybody can take part in. It is more than a race and is about ordinary people setting themselves an extraordinary goal to finish the 404km course.

Paddling in her first Red Cross-Herald Sun Murray Marathon, Queensland mother of two, Kate Kelly-Duke said while paddling along the Murray River, 'One cannot deny the sheer beauty of this unique part of Australia and what a privilege it is to participate in this event with like minded people who have set themselves the ultimate challenge to complete the course along the Mighty Murray River.'

'The feeling of camaraderie between the Marathon paddlers is unique and typifies our special national Aussie spirit of looking after your mate,' said Kate.

Competing in his first Red Cross Murray Marathon last year at age 76, Col Gibson said, 'The Murray Marathon is a great challenge, but also a great trip down memory lane as I spent my early childhood on the Murray, swimming in it and riding the paddle steamers'.

With entrants ranging from 13 to 83 years old and teams coming from local schools to the CWA, there are many different entry options to make completing the Red Cross Murray Marathon achievable for everyone. Categories include individual, teams, relays, half distance and junior distance categories. It is time to start preparing and full event details and tips to getting started are available at www.redcross.org.au or by calling 1800 246 850.

The Red Cross-Herald Sun Murray Marathon is one of the most important events on the Australian Red Cross, Victoria's calendar, raising funds to help local communities during times of emergency.

Interview and photo opportunities are available with paddlers in your local area.