Grant Denyer To Swap Bitumen for Sand At Don River Dash

Grant Denyer. Photo supplied

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Australian television personality and motorsport enthusiast Grant Denyer will trade the racetrack for the riverbed this September when he takes on the Don River Dash in Bowen, getting back behind the wheel of an off-road buggy after a long break.

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The event, held from 4^th–6^th September 2026, will see Denyer join hundreds of competitors from across Australia as motorcycles, cars, buggies and trophy trucks battle it out across six 50-kilometre loops for the coveted King and Queen of the River titles.

“I’m always looking for new challenges in motorsport, and the Don River Dash is unlike anything I’ve done before,” Denyer said.

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“Racing through a dry riverbed where you can choose your own racing line, surrounded by passionate competitors and fans, sounds like an incredible experience.

“The reverse-grid format is something I can’t wait to sink my teeth into. You never quite know where you’ll end up in the mix, and that’s what makes it so exciting.

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“I’m really looking forward to getting behind the wheel of an off-road buggy, seeing what it can do and testing myself against some of the best off-road racers in Australia.”

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With the freedom to choose his own line through the riverbed and the challenge of the Don River Dash’s unique reverse-grid format, Denyer is eager to experience one of Australia’s most distinctive motorsport events firsthand.

Burdekin Offroaders Inc. President Michael Marson said having Denyer attend the event was a perfect fit.

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“Grant has a genuine passion for motorsport and understands what makes racing exciting—the competition, the machinery and the people behind it,” Mr Marson said.

“The Don River Dash is about stepping outside your comfort zone and experiencing something different. Whether you’re a professional racer, a weekend warrior or someone watching from the sidelines, there’s nothing else quite like it.”

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Now in its eighth year, the Don River Dash has become one of Australia’s most unique off-road racing events, attracting competitors and spectators from across the country to Bowen, at the gateway to the Whitsundays.

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With world-class racing, live entertainment, great food and the country hospitality Bowen is known for, the Don River Dash has become a favourite on the local calendar. This year, having a familiar face like Denyer’s behind the wheel will make the community’s much-loved event even more special.  

“Grant is a well-known TV personality and the publicity that will be generated by this announcement is very positive for our region,” said Manager of Bowen Tourism and Business, Leanne Abernethy.  

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“The Don River Dash attracts competitors, support crews and spectators from all over Australia. They come for the event, but they also get to experience what our beautiful region has to offer.

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“Grant Denyer’s involvement in the Dash this year will lift the profile of the event and of the region.”

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What? Don River Dash

When? Friday 4th - Sunday 6th September  

Where? Along the dry bed of the Don River in Bowen