What started as a one-man solo run snowballed into a huge community walk for many family and friends of the late Tracey Roberts.

Tracey’s younger brother Dan, who is based in Brisbane, said the idea for the event stemmed from many conversations he had with his sister.

Walking is among the recommended activities to reduce likelihood for diabetes.

“She was telling me when she was out of hospital and recovered she wanted to do something like this with a focus on promoting awareness about diabetes,” Dan said.

His original plan was to run from Tamworth to their parents’ home at Curlewis, while taking some time for reflection.

“As soon as I mentioned it to my sister, she said I might join you on my pushbike and it kind of went from there,” he said.

Dan started on his run around the Gunnedah Showground at midnight and was later joined by sister Karen who rode about 90km.

Many more family and friends joined the walking contingent as well – some travelling from interstate and others navigating alternate routes around floodwater to attend the event.

Dan said the event gained some good traction in recent weeks, including raising some funds to support more people undergoing dialysis treatment in the region.

Although the event was initially never about the fundraising component, Dan and family said the support has been amazing with about $6000 raised so far.

The family have plans to use the funds to help purchase iPads for people to use while undergoing dialysis treatment in hospital.

“It’s something we can do to help pass that time for them,” Dan said.

As the “baby brother” he remembered his sister as “a very positive, ‘people’ee’ person” who was able to connect with almost everyone.

“I guess it was the hairdresser in her, always up for a chat,” he said.

Tracey’s father Fred was busy helping on the barbecue nearby, keeping the walkers, runners and bike riders, well fed during the event.

He was blown away by the number of people who turned out in support of the walk.

“We weren’t expecting this,” Fred said.

“There’s people here from all over.

“It’s been unbelievable.”