The 2025 Mackay Wanderers Junior Football Carnival was a standout weekend for grassroots sport, featuring a record-breaking 130 teams from across Central Queensland. The carnival’s scale and success brought thousands of visitors to the region, creating an electric atmosphere on and off the field.

Mayor Greg Williamson congratulated the organisers, volunteers, and families who made the event possible.

He said, “It was the biggest event to date, bringing thousands of visitors to our region and creating an incredible atmosphere on and off the field.”

He also highlighted the economic benefits, adding, “Events like this not only showcase our local talent but also deliver a fantastic economic boost to the region.

"Well done to everyone involved – Mackay should be proud.”

Greg Kliese, president and lifelong member of Mackay Wanderers Football Club, described the carnival as one of the happiest and friendliest clubs he's been involved in.

With over 45 years of coaching experience, he emphasised the wider benefits for young players.

“They get to learn discipline, work for one another, and gain valuable skills - especially creativity.

"it's overall just a great atmosphere."

Carnival coordinator Melinda Studt praised the strong community spirit throughout the weekend.

“The kids were just so busy with their teams having fun… if the kids weren’t busy playing their game, they were either at the canteen or in the drill zone space learning tricks from senior players.”

“We had a great turn out with the girls this year too, so next year we absolutely want to boost that aspect and build a stronger competition for the girls.”

Both Melinda and Greg expressed gratitude to Football Queensland for their support, with Greg saying, “Football Queensland really got amongst it and helped with the draw and scoring.”

On behalf of the club, Melinda, Greg, and Football Queensland thanked players, coaches, referees, families, volunteers, and sponsors for their invaluable support, with the team now looking forward to an even bigger carnival in 2026.

2025 Carnival Winners:

• U15/16: Magpies Mackay Football Club Black
• U14: Striker Biloela
• U13: Emerald Eagles Football Club
• U12: Airlie Beach Black
• U11: Mackay Lions Black
• U10: Magpies Mackay Football Club Silver

Special recognition was also awarded to Country United Football Club Inc as the Fair Play Club of the Carnival.

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The 2025 Mackay Wanderers Junior Football Carnival set a record with 130 teams, celebrating community spirit, youth development, and growing girls’ participation. Photo credit: Amanda Blines

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The Mackay community is mourning the heartbreaking loss of 18-year-old Andrew Lelliott, who tragically lost his life in a single-vehicle crash near Moranbah on Thursday, August 8.

Andrew was travelling as a passenger in a silver Toyota Hilux when the vehicle left the roadway and collided with a power pole on the Peak Downs Highway. Despite the efforts of emergency services, Andrew, from Balberra, was declared deceased at the scene. The driver, an 18-year-old Beaconsfield man, sustained minor injuries and was taken to Moranbah Hospital.

Andrew’s passing has sent ripples of grief through Mackay and beyond, a loss felt not only by his family and friends but by the region’s sporting community, particularly within Mackay Basketball, where Andrew’s talent, generosity, and character left a lasting mark.

From the Under-12s through to the Under-18s, Andrew proudly represented Mackay on the basketball court. Known for his natural ability and trademark flair for passing, he was the kind of player who made those around him better. Spectators recall the joy of watching him in action — unselfish in play, sharp in vision, and always with a grin that spoke to his love of the game.

Beyond his years as a player, Andrew continued to contribute to the sport he loved by serving as a referee, earning respect for his fairness, professionalism, and easy rapport with players and officials alike.

“Andrew leaves behind a lasting legacy in the Mackay community through his friendship, loyalty, sportsmanship, and generous smile,” Mackay Basketball said in a statement.

A memorial service to honour Andrew’s life will be held at 4:00pm on Friday, August 15, at McDonald’s Mackay Multisport Stadium. The community is invited to attend and celebrate the vibrant, joyful, and kind-hearted young man whose presence enriched so many lives.

In keeping with Andrew’s colourful spirit, his family has requested guests wear bright colours – pinks, blues, whites, and yellows – to reflect the vibrancy he brought to every game, conversation, and moment. Past teammates are encouraged to bring a pair of basketball shoes to be placed at centre court as a powerful tribute to the game and friendships that bound Andrew to the Mackay sporting community.

A GoFundMe has been established to assist Andrew’s mother, Loma, and their family during this unimaginably difficult time. The funds will help cover funeral costs, counselling, and living expenses, easing the burden so the family can focus on grieving and healing.

The loss of a young life with such promise is a tragedy no community ever wishes to face. Yet, in the midst of this sorrow, the Mackay community is rallying, in stadiums, in homes, and in many hearts, to remember Andrew not for the way he was taken, but for the joy, kindness, and passion he gave so freely.

Donations can be made via GoFundMe at: https://gofund.me/9d6aff3b

Mackay Life extends our deepest condolences to the friends and families affected.

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The Mackay community is mourning the loss of 18-year-old basketballer Andrew Lelliott, remembered for his talent, kindness, and vibrant spirit, after he tragically died in a crash near Moranbah. Photo source: Mackay Basketball

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TABLE TENNIS

Season 3 Morning Fixtures – Results 2 – 29th August 2025

Division 1 - Tiger Paws (Allan Robins, Bryan Marshall, Ross DeBoer) tied 6-6 against Wolf Pack (Andrea Nicholson, Pam Joyce, Helen Ware)
Shark Attack (Geoff Cowan, Peter Goodson, Marie Taylor) drew 6-6 Bear Claws (Judy Zahn, George Camilleri, Kevin Abbott)
Lions King (Don Boettcher, Donna Abbott, Veronica Shepherd) defeated 8-4 Eagle Wings (Branko Vucurovic, Noreen Frederickson, Coral Morgan)

Division 2 – Falcon Flyers (Ken Best, Ian Dodds, John Hamelink) defeated 7-5 Panther Pace (Gerry Synnott, Frank Caruana, Gloria Vella)
Python Spin (Kim Daffy, Louise Gould, Robyn Bushell) defeated 9-3 Rhino Charge (Pam Kuene, Josie Davis, Kim Challender)

Division 3 – Captin Spins (Glenda Dutton, Sharon Muller, Allison Day) defeated 10-2 over Iron Rallies (Ron Johr, Trisha Zamparutti, Carmel Cristaldi)
Bat Serves (Cheryl Pearson, Kaz Chester, Glenda Brookes) defeated 7-5 Spider Smashes (Myles Dutton, Madge Saunders, Laurie Bradshaw)

**Season 3 Evening Fixtures - Result Week 2 **

Division 1 – Fish (Steve Whiting & Jocob Whelan) defeated Bears (Josh Brown & Lee Brake) 5-0. Jacob winning in 5 over Josh (11-6)
Ants (Barry Patterson, Vince Boeske, Robbie Richards) defeated Birds (Anne Sheridan, Trent Day) 9-2. Robbie won in 5th set against Trent (11-7)

Division 2 – Cats (Duncan Treloar, Graham Brake, Will VanDeKaa) defeated Cows (Ian McKay, Janice Kent, George Camilleri) 8-3. Janice winning a massive 5 set match over Duncan (11-9)
Dogs (Ivan Perkins, Mark Sleeman, Peter Goodson) defeated Owls (Andrea Nicholson, Yilin Jiang) 8-3. Andrea won in 5th set over Ivan (11-3)
Tigers (Allan Edwards, Allan Robins, Geoff Cowan) defeated Horses (Syed Aminul Hossain, Donna Abbott, Ollie Hamelink) 9-2. Syed winning in 5 games over Allan R (11-7)

Division 3 – Stiga (Simon Hogan, Vincent Neuhauf, Val Austin) defeated Tibhar (Ross DeBoer, Craig VanDeKaa, Rod Hamelink) 8-3. Val won over Craig in 5th set (11-5)
Nittaku (Melanie Theodore, Noreen Frederickson, Samual Whelan) defeated Butterfly (Mark Stam, Liz Burton, Logan Brown) 6-5. Noreen winning in 5 against Mark (12-10)

Season 3 Morning Fixtures – Results Week 3 – 5th August 2025

Division 1 – Shark Attack (Doug Dungavell, Peter Goodson, Marie Taylor) drew 6-6 against Lions King (Donna Abbott, Veronica Shepherd, Don Boettcher)
Tiger Paws (Allan Robins, Ross DeBoer, Bryan Marshall) defeated 7-5 Bear Claws (Judy Zahn, John McGee, Kevin Abbott)
Eagle Wings (Branko Vucurovic, Noreen Frederickson, Coral Morgan) defeated 7-5 Wolf Pack (Pam Joyce, Steve Mathieson, Virginia Clayton)

Division 2 – Flacon Flyers (Ken Best, Ian Dodds, John Hamelink) defeated 9-3 over Python Spins (Kim Daffy, Louise Gould, Robyn Bushell)
Panther Pace (Gerry Synnott, Frank Caruana, Helen Ware) defeated 8-4 Rhino Charge (Iris Grasso, Kim Challender, Josie Davis)

Division 3 – Iron Rallies (Pam Keune, Thelma Caruana) defeated 6-4 Spider Smashes (Laurie Bradshaw, Madge Saunders)
Captin Spins (Sharon Muller, Peter Taber) defeated 7-5 Bat Serves (Glenda Brookes, Cheryl Pearson, Kaz Chester)

Season 3 Evening Fixtures - Results Week 3

Division 1 – Ants (Barry Patterson, Vince Boeske, Robbie Richards) defeated Fish (Goncalo Serra, Steve Whiting) 6-5. Vince won in 4 sets over Steve (11-5)
Bears (Lily Boland, Lee Brake, Josh Brown) had a massive win over Birds (Janice Kent, Anne Sheridan, Trent Day) 10-1. Lily won over Janice in 5 sets (12-10)

Division 2 – Cats (Graham Brake, Duncan Treloar, Will VanDeKaa) defeated Horses (Syed Aminul Hossain, Donna Abbott) 7-4. Will/Duncan won great 5 setter against Syed/Donna (11-9)
Tigers (Allan Edwards, Allan Robins, Geoff Cowan) defeated Dogs (Mark Sleeman, George Camilleri, Peter Goodson) 9-2. Mark winning tight 5 sets over Geoff (11-9)
Cows (Graeme Walker, Ian McKay, Steve Mathieson) defeated Owls (Andrea Nicholson, Yilin Jiang) 7-4. Graeme winning over Yilin (11-8) in 5th game

Division 3 – Butterfly (Mark Stam, Liz Burton, Logan Brown) defeated Stiga (Vincent Neuhauf, Val Austin) 7- 4. Vincent won in 5 sets against Mark (11-7)
Nittaku (Noreen Frederickson, Samuel Whelan, Melanie Theodore) defeated Tibhar (Craig VanDeKaa, Marie
Taylor, Rod Hamelink) 8-3. Rod won in 5th set over Melanie (11-8)

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Mackay table tennis teams battled through close matches and big wins in Season 3 morning and evening fixtures. Photo source: Mackay Table Tennis Association

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With more than fifty runners taking part in the annual North Queensland Bulk Ports (NQBP) Open and Podiatry Mackay Junior Magic Mile, the competition was fierce from the starter’s gun.

The Podiatry Mackay Junior Club Championship was held ahead of the NQBP Open Club Championship in breezy but sunny and cool conditions on the scenic Mackay Marina Breakwater. NQBP once again played a pivotal role in the event, closing the breakwater to vehicle traffic for one hour during racing and sponsoring the Open male and female podium winners. Podiatry Mackay’s Donald Orr maintained his generous support for junior runners, offering cash prizes to the under 13 and under 18 male and female podium placegetters for the second time in recent weeks.

The 1,600-metre out-and-back course made for a fast, tightly contested race. Mackay Road Runners Club President, Paul Tilse, expressed gratitude to both NQBP and Podiatry Mackay, noting that Donald Orr was unable to attend the event in person. Despite the depth of talent, the Magic Mile race records set by past champions Charlie Martel (4:22) and Benita Willis (4:54) remain unbroken.

The under 13 female category produced an impressive result, with Ayla Moon and Shailee Mewha taking first and second overall across the line, followed by the first under 13 male, Sonny Moon. Under 13 male Hughie Bishop clocked a strong 7:07, just 12 seconds behind his older sister, Millie Bishop, who claimed gold in the under 18 female event. Keira Caban took silver in the under 18 female category and was awarded the coveted Magic Mile Milo Award for her inspirational performance.

In the under 18 male division, Max Miles claimed gold in a standout effort, backing up from a personal best in the Townsville half marathon (21.1km) the previous weekend. Oscar Hayles secured bronze after a determined sprint finish. Other strong performances came from Isabelle Hayles, Jackson Symonds, Ava Miles, and Taahleah Caban, who placed third in the under 13 female category.

NQBP Senior Advisor Community Relationships, Emilie Power, presented prizes for the NQBP Open event. Jared Mackie claimed gold in 4:56, the only runner to break the five-minute barrier. Ten seconds later, Hamish Donnollan edged out Jonathan Davies by just half a second for silver, with Ryan Gibbs finishing a further second behind in fourth. First female and fifth overall, Skye Perkins, clocked 5:25 in a superb run, followed by Alana Knezevic (5:33) and Emily Hayles (6:49). Mackay Road Runners members were also competing for open and age category club championship points.

Thanks were extended to NQBP, Podiatry Mackay, and the dedicated club volunteers — Rohan Miles, Julie Whibley, Jo Hughes, Andrew Short, Tim Magoffin, Brendan Bishop, Len Howarth, Ross Connor, and Alan Zamparutti — for their invaluable contributions.

The Mackay Road Runners’ racing calendar continues next week with the Tri-Activ8-sponsored event from Bonson’s Scrub Road at The Leap, starting at 7am. The 6km and 12km courses will feature challenging undulations along Ian Reddacliffe Drive. Tri-Activ8’s Nikki Giles has been a long-time supporter of the club and broader community.

Meanwhile, Club Captain and Life Member Jim Ford continues to run his popular weekly track training sessions at the ARC (Aquatic & Recreational Complex) in Ooralea each Wednesday at 5.30pm. The sessions are free, with a $4 track access fee payable at the pool kiosk. Athletes of all levels are welcome — no membership or RSVP required.

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Podiatry Mackay Junior Magic Mile competitors are off and racing at the Mackay Marina Breakwater.
North Queensland Bulk Ports (NQBP) Open Magic Mile bolt from the s starters gun.
NQBP Senior Advisor Community Relationship’s Emilie Power presents the coveted Magic Mile Milo Award to Keira Caban for her inspiring performance.
Under 13 female podium winners Shailee Mewha (2nd); Ayla Moon (1st); Tahleah Caban accept Podiatry Mackay cash prizes from Emilie Power (NQBP).
Under 13 male podium winners Sonny Moon (1st); Hugh Bishop (2nd) ; Oscar Hayles (3rd) accept Podiatry Mackay cash prizes from Emilie Power (NQBP).
Under 18 female podium winners Millie Bishop (1st) and Keira Caban (2nd) accept Podiatry Mackay cash prizes from Emilie Power (NQBP).
Under 18 male gold medal winner Max Miles accepts Podiatry Mackay cash prize from Emilie Power (NQBP).
NQBP’s Emilie Power presents the NQBP prizes for podium winners, Emily Hayles (3rd); Skye Perkins with son Finn (1st) and Alana Knezevic (2nd).
NQBP’s Emilie Power presents the NQBP prizes for podium winners, Hamish Donnollan (2nd), Johnathan Davies (3rd) and Jared Mackie (1st). Photos supplied

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Mackay Junior Rugby Union is set to launch its 2025 season in style, with a community sign-on day and first training session scheduled for Sunday, August 17, from 2pm to 4pm at Quarry Hill, North Mackay.

The club, which continues to grow under the leadership of its dedicated president, is opening its doors to players of all experience levels, from absolute beginners to seasoned juniors. Training will be held Friday nights, with Sunday games and a full calendar of carnivals in Emerald, Airlie Beach, Moranbah, and Mackay.

This year sees the introduction of two exciting development programs: ‘Get into Rugby’, a fun, skill-based initiative for children aged 4–7, and ‘Girls Can Tackle Anything’, a dedicated program for girls aged 6–12 aimed at boosting female participation in the sport.

Adding to the excitement, Mackay Junior Rugby Union has been invited to send a group of players to walk onto the field before the Wallabies game in Townsville this September, calling for an unforgettable experience for the young athletes.

The 2024 season was one to remember, with the club’s Under-12s and Under-10s teams either winning or placing second in every carnival they entered. The talent pipeline is also strong, with two standout players from last year’s U12s recently selected for the prestigious Queensland Country Rugby Union Team.

The sign-on day offers the perfect opportunity for families to meet coaches, learn about the season ahead, and get a feel for the club’s supportive, community-focused environment. With rugby offering not just physical benefits but also teamwork, resilience, and friendships that last a lifetime, Mackay Junior Rugby Union is eager to welcome the next wave of players.

Parents and players are encouraged to head to Quarry Hill on August 17 to be part of a club that’s kicking goals both on and off the field.

For more information, contact Mackay Junior Rugby Union or visit their Facebook page.

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Mackay Junior Rugby Union launches its 2025 season with a sign-on day on August 17, featuring new youth programs and celebrating recent successes. Photo source: Mackay District Junior Rugby Union

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The first week of the Anne Hird Memorial Trophy was played on Wednesday for novices (under 100 mps), who play with three different experienced players over three weeks. The trophy is in memory of Anne Hird and Beanies for Brain Cancer. Anne was a supporter of encouraging new players, who can only win the trophy once. This is a high honour for all beginners.

Weekly Results

Monday 4 August 2025 – 8 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S E/W
1st Janelle Conroy / Robert Carless 1st Mary Rose Ramsden / Sandy Patterson
2nd Helen Van Den Broek / Jan Harris 2nd Geoff Taylor / Richard Wix
3rd Edward Kleise / Diane Stokes 3rd Barbara Tait / Margaret Lane
4th David Ting / Eric Goodchild 4th Jewel Schmidt / Janine Rodgers

Tuesday Evening 5 August 2025 – 4 Table One Winner Green Points
1st Adrian Westcott / Patricia Garner 2nd Janelle Conroy / Geoff Taylor
3rd Diane Morgan / Sandra Morris 4th Marilin Robins / Faye Wright

Wednesday 6 August 2025 – Anne Hird Memorial Trophy Week 1 of 3 Novice event
N/S E/W
1st Sandy Patterson / Eric Goodchild 1st Geoffrey Patterson / Geoff Cowan
2nd Andrew Canavan / David Ting 2nd Janine Rodgers / Jewel Schimdt
3rd Joy Block / Diane Stokes 3rd Jan Harris / Mary Rose Ramsden
4th Martin Pearce / Sandra Morris 4th Ming Ting / Patricia Wong

Thursday Evening 7 August 2025 – 3 Table One Winner Green Points
N/S E/W
1st Janine Rodgers / Janelle Conroy 2nd Jan Harris / Andrew Canavan
3rd Faye Wright / Adrian Westcott 4th Ken Seaniger / Robert Carless

Friday 8 August 2025 – 6 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S E/W
1st Sandy Patterson / Eric Goodchild 1st Geoff Cowan / Mick King
2nd Ming Ting / David Ting 2nd Lorna Shuttlewood / Debra Goodchild
3rd Griffin Bancroft / Diane Stokes 3rd Victor Mason / Josie Crowley

Saturday 9 August – 9 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S E/W
1st Sandy Patterson / Joy Robinson 1st Janine Rodgers / Richard Wix
2nd Griffin Bancroft / Julie O’Neill 2nd Geoffrey Patterson / Ian Gaskell
3rd Mary Rose Ramsden / Christine Nice 3rd Adrian Westcott / Lorna Shuttlewood
4th Geoff Taylor / Janelle Conroy 4th Helen Van Den Broek / Joy Brunette

Contributeed by Joy Block

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Leaders in the Anne Hird Memorial after Week 1. (L to R) Geoff Gowan, Sandy Patterson, Geoffrey Patterson and Eric Goodchild. Photo supplied

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It was a workout with heart and purpose as Mackay locals hit the ground jumping last Saturday for the annual Harpertastic 1km Travel Burpees challenge. The high-energy fundraiser raised $3,180 for Jeans for Genes Australia, supporting vital research into childhood cancers and genetic disorders.

A total of 139 participants took part in the physically gruelling event, which required individuals or teams to complete a full kilometre of travel burpees. Four participants completed the entire distance solo, one burpee at a time, while 17 local businesses were represented on the course.

The event was once again powered by the passion of organisers Amy and Harper, with widespread support from the Mackay fitness and business community.

“To all the businesses that donated prizes, thank you,” the organisers said, acknowledging contributions from Mass Nutrition Mackay, Base Performance & Recovery, The Dispensary Mackay, LSKD, Scents of Empowerment – Leonie Featherstone’s Essential Oils, and NFE Running.

Event support came from across the region, including Rob Kidd, 7NEWS Mackay, Hansen MEDIA, She Fitness, Denzel Bobongie Visuals & Bandy Bongo Photography, and Carolyn Smithson – On the Move Photography.

“The love and laughter on the course was incredible. All there for the right reasons and showing all children battling that they aren't alone. Now we plan for 2026!” said a representative from NRG Plus Personal Training.

With 1 in 20 Australian children born with a genetic condition or birth defect (equivalent to one child in every classroom), fundraising efforts like this are more than just symbolic. They are essential.

To support the cause, visit the Harpertastic Jeans for Genes fundraising page. Every dollar brings researchers one step closer to breakthroughs, and gives hope to families who need it most.

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Mackay locals raised $3,180 for children’s medical research during the Harpertastic 1km Travel Burpees challenge last Saturday, with 139 participants jumping into action for a vital cause. Photo credit: Rob Kidd

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Crews are trading sailing gear for party shirts on Lay Day as the Battle of the Sailors lawn games competition returns to Airlie Beach Race Week.

Held at the Whitsunday Sailing Club on August 11, teams of five can register at reception for a chance to win great prizes, including VIP entry and regular race entries to ABRW 2026 and a $150 food and drink voucher.

The games kick off at 3pm sharp, but the fun continues into the evening with food trucks firing up at 5pm and live music from local performer Sam McCann.

Whether you're competing or just soaking up the festive atmosphere with a seafood platter in hand, this is the place to be on Lay Day.

Best party shirt is highly encouraged and you may just earn your bragging rights on and off the water.

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A Flavour-Filled Voyage on Race Week Lay Day

Elementa Whitsundays and 74 Islands Distillery, the proud naming rights sponsors of the 2025 Airlie Beach Race Week, are inviting guests to a one-off long lunch experience that captures the true spirit of the Whitsundays.
Taking place on Monday 11 August from 1pm to 4pm, Changing Courses offers a vibrant way to spend the official Lay Day of Race Week. Set in the stunning surrounds of the elevated Elementa distillery and rooftop gardens, the event promises panoramic Coral Sea views, live entertainment and a culinary journey unlike any other.
Guests will be greeted with a 74 Islands Summit Spritz on arrival before embarking on a three-hour food and beverage experience. A roaming selection of canapés will take diners on a voyage through local flavours, from reef-fresh seafood and tropical fruits to native botanicals and herbs harvested from Elementa’s own gardens. A signature grazing station curated by the distillery’s in-house chef will offer further opportunity to sample the best of the region.
The ticket includes a three-hour drinks package featuring 74 Islands Spirits, select wines and beers, with return transfers provided to and from the Whitsunday Sailing Club.
Designed for those who want to push the boat out a little further, Changing Courses promises a memorable afternoon of food, flavour and festivity. With limited spots available, early bookings are essential.
Tickets are $150 per person and the dress code is resort nautical. Guests are welcome to stay on and enjoy the relaxed rooftop ambience into the evening.
What: Changing Courses Lunch
When: Monday 11th August 1-4pm
Where: Elementa

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Whitsunday Sailing Club Commodore Heather Sutton plays a vital role in Airlie Beach Race Week, focusing on the volunteer crew who keep the event going.

“My role within Race Week is to organise volunteers,” Heather said.

Race Week is run by volunteers and we are very lucky that a lot of our volunteers have been coming back year after year, and they come from Melbourne, Sydney and Adelaide, we also have our local volunteers.”

From race directors to mark layers and prize organisers, volunteers handle most aspects of the event.

“Our volunteers start from the top, the Race Director, he's a volunteer, and our Principal Race Officer is a volunteer, it's all done by volunteers,” she said.

“We have about 50 volunteers.”

Heather, who has sailed around the world, said sailing has been her life since age 12.

“You don't think about anything that's happening on shore, all your worries go away because you're concentrating on getting that boat going faster.”

With Airlie Beach Race Week fast approaching, Heather’s still calling for more help.

“We are still looking for volunteers and they don’t have to have a sailing boat or boat license, they can be on the water helping.”

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Get ready for an unforgettable week of high-stakes yacht racing, breathtaking coastal views and non-stop social festivities at the 2025 Airlie Beach Race Week, proudly presented by 74 Islands Distillery. Hosted by the Whitsunday Sailing Club, this much-loved event has grown into one of Australia’s most iconic sailing regattas, drawing competitors and spectators from across the country and beyond.
Held in the heart of the Whitsundays, Airlie Beach Race Week offers the perfect blend of competitive spirit and laid-back tropical charm. Against the dazzling backdrop of the Coral Sea and the 74 islands that give the distillery its name, crews will race across crystal-clear waters, navigating challenging courses framed by palm-fringed shores and rugged island peaks. Each day offers not only thrilling sailing action but also moments of natural beauty, from sun-drenched decks to golden Whitsunday sunsets.
Whether you’re a seasoned sailor chasing the thrill of competition or a land-based visitor drawn in by the electric atmosphere, the week delivers something for everyone. Onshore, Airlie Beach buzzes with life as the waterfront fills with live entertainment, pop-up bars, local fare and great company. Sunset cocktails flow, laughter fills the air, and camaraderie flourishes among crews and crowds alike.
As naming rights sponsor, 74 Islands Distillery brings the true essence of the region to every element of the event. Known for crafting spirits inspired by the diverse landscapes and natural botanicals of the Whitsundays, the distillery’s involvement highlights the connection between sailing, community and place. Their presence not only lifts the bar offering but anchors the festival in the local identity and spirit of the islands.
With a packed schedule of racing and plenty of opportunities to soak up the fun, Airlie Beach Race Week is more than just a regatta. It’s a celebration of adventure, hospitality and the spectacular Whitsundays lifestyle. Whether you’re here to race, relax or revel in the festivities, this is one event you’ll want to mark on the calendar.
Come for the competition, stay for the scenery and leave with a lifetime of memories. Airlie Beach Race Week 2025 is set to be a standout, don’t miss your chance to be part of it.

Photo credit: Andrea Francolini

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As Regatta Director of Airlie Beach Race Week, Jenni Birdsall’s job spans the entire year, not just the week of racing in Airlie Beach.

“I’m basically in charge of coordinating as much as I possibly can to bring everyone together and direct whatever their role entails,” Jenni said.

Her responsibilities cover everything from official race documentation and safety management to results and coordination across teams.

She describes her role as a helicopter role, viewing all roles from above.

“I’m the overall coordinator of any safety issues that happen on or off the water within the regatta precinct,” she explained. “

I’m also managing the results, and I’m responsible for making sure everything flows the way it should.”

Airlie Beach is the only regatta where Jenni officially takes on the Regatta Director title, but she works across several major Australian events, including Hamilton Island, Magnetic Island, Geelong, and Townsville.

“I work with a good group of people and we rely on each other, we trust each other.”

With many race officials in their 60s, 70s or 80s, Jenni is helping train new recruits.

“We’re trying to bring on a younger group of people so we can pass this on to others.”

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Celebrate the spirit of sailing, connection and coastal charm in true Whitsundays style at the Airlie Beach Race Week Presentations Dinner, held from 5:30pm on Thursday 14 August. Taking place on the picturesque Festival Village lawns at the Whitsunday Sailing Club, this unforgettable evening is the ultimate way to round off a thrilling week of on-water action and shoreside festivity.
For $149 per ticket, guests will be treated to a carefully crafted three-course meal showcasing local flavours, along with a complimentary welcome drink to toast the week’s achievements. As the sun dips below the horizon and a warm tropical breeze rolls in, the setting couldn’t be more perfect for an evening of laughter, connection and celebration.
Live entertainment will fill the air throughout the night, adding to the festive energy of the event. With premium seating right on the lawns, guests will enjoy front-row views of the evening’s spectacular fireworks show, lighting up the sky over Airlie Beach in a dazzling finale. Even better, the fireworks display is free for the wider community to enjoy, ensuring a shared celebration that extends beyond just the sailors.
This is more than just a dinner, it’s a night of recognition, storytelling, and shared memories beneath the stars. Whether you're toasting a podium finish or simply soaking in the vibrant atmosphere, the Presentations Dinner promises an experience that captures the true heart of Race Week. Early bookings are recommended to avoid missing out.

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As the Whitsundays prepare to host the 37th edition of Airlie Beach Race Week (ABRW), spectators are being offered a chance to view the action from the best seat on the water, aboard the stunning 100-foot mega yacht, SV Summer Jo.

From 7–14 August, more than 130 boats will take to the pristine waters of the Whitsundays for one of Australia’s most iconic sailing regattas, proudly sponsored this year by 74 Islands Distillery.

While competitors battle it out on the water, spectators can enjoy a premium Race Week experience on SV Summer Jo.

Departing from the Port of Airlie, guests will receive a welcome drink on arrival, a buffet lunch and afternoon refreshments, and are invited to BYO alcohol (no glass or red wine).

With indoor and outdoor viewing decks, shaded areas, air-conditioned lounges, full amenities, and professional commentary, it’s an unbeatable way to soak up the spectacle.

Spots aboard SV Summer Jo are limited. Book now to witness the ABRW from the best possible seat.

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As Chairman of Airlie Beach Race Week, Terry Archer plays a pivotal role in ensuring the annual sailing event runs smoothly both on and off the water. But come Thursday afternoon, he switches hats, trading the coordination clipboard for the helm of his multihull racer.

“I have a dual role,” Terry explained. “I’m effectively the connection between the club’s management, the volunteers, and ensuring the onshore and offshore events. Then, from Thursday afternoon, I became a competitor.”

From Thursday afternoon onwards, Terry rolls into Race Mode.

Terry works closely with Regatta Director Jenni Birdsall, who oversees all sailing-related logistics. Together with volunteers coordinated by Heather, and with input from world-renowned race officers Kevin and Ross Wilson, the regatta comes to life across 11 classes and numerous divisions, including the highly subscribed Performance Cruising class.

Terry will race in the Racing Multihull Division alongside a crew of three fellow club members.

After the busy lead-up, Terry is looking forward to his time on the water. Despite being the Chairman, he is treated like a competitor, and he’s looking forward to representing the Whitsunday Sailing Club in the competition.

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