Damp But Determined 2026 Mackay Airport Twilight City 5km Fun Run A Success

Hundreds of runners and volunteers braved damp conditions to take part in the 2026 Mackay Airport Twilight City 5km Fun Run on Friday night, in one of Mackay’s most popular lead-ups to the BMA Mackay Marina Run in June.

The event, supported by major sponsor Mackay Airport along with numerous local sponsors and volunteers, raises both funds and awareness for the Mackay Branch of the Leukaemia Foundation, with one hundred per cent of registration fees going directly to the charity.

Leukaemia Foundation Board Director Angela Milligan said the event had a long-standing history in the region.

“This is actually my first year that I’ve been involved in the run, but I do know that my branch has been supporting this run for 17 years now,” she said.

She explained that the fundraiser is vital for families facing blood cancer, especially those from regional areas who must travel for treatment.

“We provide free accommodation for those that have to travel to receive the treatment that they need, which is really important for regional areas,” Ms Milligan said, adding that the event also plays a crucial role in education.

“It raises awareness about blood cancer, which is really quite a hidden disease,” she said.

Mackay Regional Council Mayor Greg Williamson said the Twilight City Fun Run had grown into a major event, attracting participants from across Australia and internationally.

“This run has now become one of Australia’s premier runs,” he said.

“We’ve got representatives from every state in Australia and even one international runner already registered from France…how great is that!”

Mayor Williamson praised the volunteers and organisers who help make the event possible each year.

“This is a fantastic event, not just for Mackay, but for the region,” he said.

“Not only are you doing something for your health by participating in the run, but you’re actually raising money for the Leukaemia Foundation.”

Kate Sommerville, General Manager at Hay Point Coal Terminal, said BMA had proudly supported the event for nearly two decades.

“BMA has been involved with this event for 18 years, so it’s very exciting for us,” she said.

“This is one of the biggest community events that we support in the region.

“Our employees participate, whether they’re running or volunteering in the community.

“It’s such a great race because it really showcases what our region is about.”

With strong participation and continued backing from sponsors and volunteers, the Twilight City Fun Run once again demonstrated the community spirit that underpins the annual lead-in to the BMA Mackay Marina Run in June.

2 pics ) - All funds raised go directly to the Leukaemia Foundation, providing vital support, accommodation, and resources for patients and their families. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

Rest of pics) - Hundreds of runners and volunteers braved damp conditions at the 2026 Mackay Airport Twilight City 5km Fun Run, celebrating community spirit ahead of the BMA Mackay Marina Run. Photo source: Mackay Road Runners