This Sunday Western Arrarnta man Charlie Maher is poised to make his newest piece of history as a long distance runner.

In 2010, Maher was the first known Indigenous Australian to finish the New York City Marathon.

On October 12, he's set to become the first person in the country to run a marathon in all eight states and territories within a single year, lodging the achievement when he crosses the finish line in Melbourne.

It's set out to be the culmination of Maher's 2025 task, the Great Australian Indigenous Marathon Challenge (GAIMC), with the Indigenous Marathon Foundation.

"This challenge is more than just a physical feat; it's a journey to raise awareness for the incredible work IMF is doing through its life-changing programs," Maher's online fundraising platform for the challenge reads.

"These programs do far more than promote fitness, they help create generational change. They build leadership, health, and resilience, empowering young Indigenous Australians to break cycles and create a brighter future for themselves and their communities."

Calls have gone out for anyone to push themselves and follow in Maher's footsteps completing the 42kms eight times over to help support and fund IMF's work next year.

The Great Australian Marathon Challenge launches in 2026.

It was 15 years ago when Maher became IMF's first graduate in New York - then the Indigenous Marathon Project.

"At IMF, we use running to bring people together — to celebrate First Nations achievements, inspire unity and leadership, and create role models," he said.

"When we run side by side, we build connections and spark a ripple effect of positive change in communities across Australia."

Maher's GAIMC kicked off with the Cadbury Hobart Marathon, followed by Canning River Runningworks Marathon in Western Australia, then in Canberra, Adelaide, Gold Coast, Alice Springs and Sydney before the Nike Melbourne Marathon this weekend.

When he crossed the finish line in Sydney two months ago, Maher became the first Indigenous male to complete all seven World Major marathons, following the race's elevation to top recognition.

He'd already earned his six-star medal, completing the six existing majors around the world in 2022.

Last year Maher was appointed IMF's Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Chief Officer.

Founded by former world champion Rob de Castella in 2009, the foundation utilises running to create and empower Indigenous leaders, promote health, wellbeing and quality of life and deliver programs into Indigenous communities.

"Now, we're inviting everyone to take up the baton and follow in Charlie's footsteps through the Great Australian Marathon Challenge," de Castella said.

"We'd love to see as many people as possible making a mark while helping us break barriers, build leadership, and creating healthier futures through running."

The Indigenous Marathon Project continues under their banner backing a squad of 12 runners each through training and preparations to run their first marathon.

2025's group includes footy greats Johnathan Thurston and Lance Franklin.

Last month, Buddy and JT booked their tickets to the US with the squad to complete the New York City Marathon.