Super team in blue: ASC smashes City2Surf

Super team in blue: Team ASC smashes City2Surf

Last Sunday, the streets of Sydney came alive as more than 90,000 people took part in the iconic City2Surf.

In the sea of runners were Asylum Seekers Centre staff wearing bright blue singlets with a powerful message: Run to Welcome. Run for All. Run for Asylum Seekers.

As part of our superstar team, Mark Johnson, Taryn Anderson, and Frank Truong also used City2Surf as a fundraising opportunity for people seeking safety in our community.

Personal fundraising goals

Mark, Taryn, and Frank each have a unique reason for raising funds for people seeking asylum— informed by their roles at the Centre.

Mark, our Advocacy Lead, is running in support of our community and the frontline services they rely on.

“I’m running for people like Ali*, who faced religious persecution and fled to Australia for safety, Marta* who escaped domestic violence and insecurity or Janni* who wasn’t safe in his country just because of who he loves.”

“I thought City2Surf would be a good opportunity to raise money for the ASC, which helps our brilliant service teams support people seeking asylum in our community.”

Taryn, a nurse in our Health Clinic, has worked on the frontline of our healthcare services for over two years and witnesses firsthand the barriers faced by members in our community.

“Access to healthcare is a human right, but each day in our clinic, we support people seeking asylum without access to Medicare.”

“Without the support of organisations like the ASC, they would not receive essential medical care, helping to treat and maintain their physical and mental health.”

Frank, our Finance Manager, brings a numbers-driven perspective grounded in real human impact.

“Amidst the high cost of living in Sydney—especially housing—I’ve seen more and more homeless clients who are people seeking asylum.”

“I am fundraising to support them.”

Powering through the rain

Despite steady rain on the day, the energy was electric.

Mark says, “It was brilliant to run alongside fantastic colleagues and great friends, some of whom are fantastic runners!”

Frank adds that the rainy run also made him even more empathetic to the community we support.

“The challenges during the run, such as the cold, rain, and the wet, slippery road, made me reflect on the run people seeking asylum must endure.”

“I hope they will reach their finish line soon, despite obstacles in Australia’s migration system.”

Thanks to the incredible support from the community, Mark, Taryn, and Frank not only crossed the finish line, all three raised more than double their fundraising goals!

Running forward with our new CEO

Taryn says that one highlight of the event was conquering the tracks alongside our incoming CEO, Elijah Buol.

“It was a great opportunity to spend some time with Elijah and get to see his enthusiasm and passion, not just for running, but in advocating for people seeking asylum.”

Elijah echoes the same joy in spending the day with the team.

“Crossing the finish line with the ASC team in my first week as CEO was a moment I won’t forget.”

“It felt like a fitting step and symbolic start, side by side with colleagues who care deeply about our mission, sharing in both the challenge and the celebration.”

“Let’s run and walk forward with purpose, knowing each choice is a step toward meaningful change.”

City2Surf 2026 on our sights

Our super team in blue already have their sights on next year’s run.

Elijah adds, “These events show that compassion isn’t just an idea—it’s action.”

“Every dollar raised helps create real, tangible impact for people seeking asylum.”

Mark also encourages others to join their super team in blue.

“Get signed up for next year and help us raise more money for the ASC!”

“It was a great day, all in aid of a good cause and I’d definitely like to run it again!”

***Want to be part of team ASC next year?

Register your interest HERE and keep up to date with all things City2Surf 2026!