John Barnard-Richardson is preparing for a 106-kilometre ultra-marathon not just as a test of endurance, but as a personal mission to improve care for older Australians at Royal North Shore Hospital.
On 28 June, Barnard-Richardson will take on the grueling Ultra Trail Jervis Bay to raise funds through the NORTH Foundation, supporting aged care services at the hospital where he has long served as a staff member in the Northern Sydney Local Health District.
“Our older population is too often overlooked,” Barnard-Richardson said. “Aged care is an unsung hero in our health system. I think because we can’t cure ageing, it kind of becomes a background thing. But it affects all of us — our parents, grandparents, neighbours, and friends. Supporting them in their time of need should be a shared responsibility.”
Funds raised from his run will be used to purchase additional equipment and resources to enhance comfort, connection, and well-being for elderly patients receiving care in hospital, during transitions back to the community, and through specialised programs.
With an ageing population in the region, Royal North Shore Hospital’s Aged Care Service plays a critical role in supporting some of the community’s most vulnerable patients. Barnard-Richardson hopes his effort will not only raise funds, but also shift public attitudes towards aged care.
“I want to strive for aged care settings to be seen not with fear, but with hope and comfort — as a step in someone’s life path that they don’t dread, but feel good about,” he said. “It’s not about solving every problem but doing a little bit to help people on their journey, so they can age as happily and comfortably as possible.”
The NORTH Foundation, the official charity partner of Royal North Shore Hospital and other hospitals in the local health district, is supporting his campaign and highlighting the importance of donations for enhancing the aged care experience.
“Donations directly support initiatives that enhance patient experience and provide peace of mind to families,” said Amelia Seeto, Director of Marketing & Communications at the NORTH Foundation. “Through this extraordinary physical and mental challenge — tackling 106km of difficult trails, remote beaches and rugged cliffs — John is not only raising vital funds, but he’s also using his own effort to champion compassionate care and respect for older Australians in a powerful and deeply personal way.”
Barnard-Richardson describes himself as a “vehicle” for the cause. “What we’re trying to pivot to now is the story about the purpose, not me,” he said. “I want people to see aged care not as something to fear, but as a meaningful stage in life.”
His intense training includes careful nutrition, long solo runs, and the mental challenge of pushing through fatigue and isolation. But his motivation remains constant.
“I believe every elderly person deserves dignity, comfort, and specialised care — especially in times of acute medical need. Running this ultra-marathon is my way of giving back to those who’ve come before us.”
The timing of the run is also personally meaningful for Barnard-Richardson, who expects to become a grandfather around the same time. “This journey is also for future generations. I hope they’ll grow up inspired to support causes like this one and carry on the spirit of giving back.”
Ritchelle is a Content Producer for Healthcare Channel, Australia’s premier resource of information for healthcare.
