“Whenever people ask me to support sick kids and families that are struggling with the challenge of a sick child, it’s always a yes from us,” she said. 

That cause has inspired her to take on the role of ambassador for Run Ballarat for the third year, and she will be out in full force at this year’s event with her husband Simon and six year old daughter Molly-Rose by her side.

“The biggest difference for me with this event for me is 100 per cent of the fee goes to the children’s ward at Ballarat Health Services. We’ve raised over $1 million and next winter we’re going to see the opening of this incredible paediatric ward,” she said. 

And the whole family are encouraging people of all levels fitness to join in the event. 

“You don’t have to be a super fit runner. You can do the walk, you can do the 6 or 12 kilometre run. Any family can get involved. Don’t be off put by the thought of it’s a marathon. It’s a very achievable distance. And it’s such a fun day,” Ms Coghlan said.

“If you have a sick child and you don’t have to rush off to Melbourne and you can come here, we’re so blessed to have great health services here.” For more information about the event on October 12, which will support the redevelopment of Ballarat Health Services Chidlren’s Ward, visit www.runaustralia.com.au.