After a 20-year hiatus, the Rialto Run Up returns on Sunday May 18, 2025, inviting all Melbournians to climb 1240 stairs at the iconic Rialto Building. The event aims to raise vital funds for autistic children and young adults with complex needs, via Giant Steps.
Inspired by the iconic Empire State Building Run-Up, the Rialto Rup-Up was the first stair climbing event in Australia, first held in the late 1980s and quickly became an annual event. Participants will ascend the towering 54 floors of the Rialto Building in a challenge of stamina, endurance and community spirit, finishing at the award-winning Vue de monde on the 55th floor. Each step taken will help provide essential resources and support autistic individuals and their families.
The funds raised will support the critical programs at Giant Steps, a specialist school and adult services program where students and young adults develop life-changing skills. The Melbourne based charity was established to bring world’s best practice in the education and support of children with autism to Australia, dedicated to supporting autistic children and young adults with complex needs.
The charity has a proven track record of helping students and participants improve their communication, engage in meaningful work experience opportunities, gain functional life skills, and achieve milestones previously thought unattainable, such as current student, Chloe:
“Like many students at Giant Steps, Chloe lives with other lifelong disabilities, in addition to her autism, including intellectual disability and complex medical conditions, which can be isolating for our whole family. 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.”
Co-Founder of Stair Climbing Australia, Adam Ryan, is coming back to tackle the Rialto Run-Up again since participating in 2005.
“For me, the Rialto Run Up reminds me of where it all began. After the 2005 race, I spent the next 20 years training and racing all over the world, I simply cannot walk past the Rialto without being in awe of the building and the memory of the race. Coming back to climb it again—this time with my wife, kids, and brothers—makes it even more special.” – Adam Ryan.
Adam Ryan (left) pictured at the rialto run up in 2005, Adam Ryan in 2025.
This year’s event will see a range of activations including live entertainment, recovery labs for participants, and breakfast at the finish line for participants who upgrade their ticket for just $50, at award-winning Vue De Monde to celebrate all stair climber’s achievements.
General Manager of Rialto, Penny Katsanis, has shared her excitement on bringing back the iconic event 20 years on, stating:
“Bringing back the Rialto Run Up after two decades is a proud moment for us. When we first launched this event in the early 1980s, it was about more than just racing—it was about challenging limits, celebrating Melbourne’s iconic skyline, and fostering a community of determined competitors. Seeing it return now, with the same spirit and enthusiasm, is incredibly special.”
Registrations are now open at www.rialtorunup.net.au.
Event Details:
· Date: Sunday, May 18, 2025
· Location: Rialto Building, 525 Collins St Melbourne, 3000
· Distance: 1240 steps to the 54th floor
