After two decades, Melbourne’s iconic Rialto Run Up is back! On Sunday, May 18 2025, fitness enthusiasts, charity supporters, and stair-climbing fanatics will conquer 1,240 steps across 54 floors of the Rialto Building—all to raise vital funds for Giant Steps, a specialist school supporting autistic children and young adults with complex needs.
Inspired by New York’s Empire State Building Run-Up, the Rialto Run Up was Australia’s first stair-climbing event when it launched in the 1980s. Now, after a 20-year hiatus, participants will once again push their endurance to the limit, finishing at the award-winning Vue de monde on the 55th floor.
The event supports Giant Steps, a Melbourne-based charity transforming lives through world-class autism education. One parent shared their story:
“Like many students at Giant Steps, Chloe lives with other lifelong disabilities, in addition to her autism… Since starting with this amazing school, we truly feel we have been rescued from a life of ongoing exclusion and trauma. Chloe loves going to school, her growth and development have been phenomenal, and her confidence is visible from the moon.”
Adam Ryan, Co-Founder of Stair Climbing Australia and a 2005 participant, is returning with his family: “For me, the Rialto Run Up reminds me of where it all began… Coming back to climb it again—this time with my wife, kids, and brothers—makes it even more special.”
Penny Katsanis, General Manager of Rialto, added: “Bringing back the Rialto Run Up after two decades is a proud moment for us… Seeing it return now, with the same spirit and enthusiasm, is incredibly special.”
Participants can enjoy live entertainment, recovery zones, and an optional $50 breakfast upgrade at Vue de monde.
Registrations open now: www.rialtorunup.net.au
