Mackay Triathlon Festival Set To Inspire, Unite And Give Back

More than just a race, the 2025 BMA Mackay Triathlon Festival is a celebration of community, resilience, and giving back. Held 20–21 September at the Mackay Harbour, this iconic regional sporting event is proudly supported by naming rights sponsor BMA and the Mackay Regional Council’s Events and Attractions Fund.

This year, the festival takes a meaningful stride forward by supporting Ronald McDonald House Charities (RMHC), with $5 from every race entry going directly towards helping families with sick children.

Mackay Triathlon Club President Stephanie Allen said the partnership gives the event an even deeper purpose.

“Our club has been part of the community for over 38 years, and this year we’re aiming to raise $10,000 for Ronald McDonald House Charities,” she said.

“It’s not only about racing, but about rallying together to help local families in their time of need.”

Stephanie emphasised that while hosting a large-scale event brings logistical challenges, especially around traffic safety, strong community and council support has allowed the club to implement new measures, including a dedicated lane closure for cyclists.

“These changes are vital not only for the safety of our athletes, but for the long-term future of this event,” she said.

“We want Mackay to have a high-calibre triathlon right here at home, without needing to travel hours away.”

Mayor Greg Williamson praised the club’s efforts and the broader vision behind the event.

“This is exactly the kind of event our Events and Attractions Fund is designed to support,” he said.

“Last year saw athletes from across Australia, and this year we’re expecting even more, including participants from New Zealand.”

He added, “It’s a fantastic partnership, and it’s just wonderful to see everyone involved coming together for the good of the region.”

For Ronald McDonald House Charities Northern Division, the partnership is incredibly impactful.

Samantha Baker, Community Engagement Executive for RMHC Mackay and the Whitsundays said the support means everything.

“Last year, over a third of the families who stayed at our Townsville House came from Mackay,” she said.

“The funds raised through this event will directly help families in our region when they’re facing some of the hardest days of their lives.”

For Brad Walz, the impact of RMHC was life-changing. After losing one of his twin daughters during pregnancy and spending weeks in hospital with his premature baby, he said the family room gave him a safe place to rest and recharge.

“Ronald McDonald House helped us so much…It meant the world to us during a very difficult time,” he said.

With race categories for all ages and fitness levels, plus opportunities for community fundraising, the 2025 BMA Mackay Triathlon Festival promises to be a true showcase of spirit, sport, and heart within the region.

To learn more or register, visit the official Mackay Triathlon Club website: www.mackaytriclub.com.au

EVENT DETAILS:

Saturday, 20 Sept | From 1PM
• Ocean Swims – 500m, 1000m, 2000m
• Kids Triathlon – Inspiring future athletes
• Event Village – Food, stalls, and live entertainment

Sunday, 21 Sept | From 6.30AM
• Triathlon Events – Sprint, Enticer & Standard (Olympic) distances
• Duathlon, Aquabike & Aquathlon – Fun for all fitness levels

KEY DATES:

• Entries open: 1 July 2025
• Early Bird closes: 31 July 2025
• Final entries close: 4pm, Saturday 20th September

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The 2025 BMA Mackay Triathlon Festival on 20–21 Sept combines sport, community, and charity, with $5 from each entry supporting Ronald McDonald House Charities

Brad Walz. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

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