Mackay’s Iconic Ride Shifts Gears

New Date And $30k Community Cash Injection Announced For 2026

The BMA River 2 Reef Ride Festival, one of Mackay’s most treasured community events, has announced a major strategic overhaul for 2026.

Following participant feedback, organisers have confirmed a new event date and a massive “Community Partnership Program” designed to inject over $30,000 directly back into local sporting clubs and community groups.

A New Date: No More Father’s Day Clash

In 2026, the festival will officially move away from its traditional Father’s Day timeslot. The 2026 event will take place on August 15 and 16, avoiding clashes with family celebrations, sporting finals and the scheduled Student Free Day.

Nikki Giles, BMA River 2 Reef Ride Event Director said, “We listened to our riders. While the event is iconic, the feedback was clear that the Father’s Day weekend and the Friday student-free day were becoming hurdles for participation.

“Moving to the second weekend in August allows families to enjoy the festival without scheduling conflicts. We are also introducing later start times on Sunday for the 100km Corry Cycles Gran Fondo at 6am and 6.45am for the 25km Queensland Country Health Fund Dash and 60km City Fitness Epic distances—to make the morning more enjoyable for everyone.”

The event continues to be powered by naming rights sponsor BMA.

Over $30,000 for Local Clubs and Community Groups

In a move to turn the event into a true community festival, organisers have launched a new funding model open to local Mackay groups - not just registered charities.

The 2026 festival is offering 30 volunteer spots for local sporting clubs, schools, hobby groups and more. Each group that successfully fulfills a volunteer role (such as an aid station or corner marshal point) will receive a guaranteed cash donation between $200 and $6,750.

Additionally, clubs can earn a $5 “Kickback” for every rider who links their registration to the club or community group and $5 for every linked jersey purchase, plus compete for bonus cash prizes awarded for "Best Atmosphere" and "Best Entertainment" on the course.

“We want to turn the course into a party,” Nikki added.

“By paying local clubs to course marshal, man the aid stations and bring their cheer squads, music, and energy, we create an amazing atmosphere for the riders while helping these clubs buy new jerseys or equipment. It’s a win-win.”

Nominations close February 6, 2026, with successful nominations announced: w/c Feb 16, 2026

Jersey Design Competition

The festival is also calling on the region’s youth. A Jersey Design Competition is now open for all 2026 High School students in the Mackay, Whitsunday, and Isaac regions. The winning student will receive $500, and their design will become the official 2026 event jersey worn by hundreds of cyclists. Entries close on February 22.

Key Dates for the Diary:
• Jersey Competition Closes: Feb 22, 2026
• Registrations Open: March 16, 2026
• Event Weekend: August 15 & 16, 2026

To nominate for a share of the $30k or to participate in this year’s Youth Design Competition visit www.river2reefride.com.au. Terms and conditions apply.

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Photos supplied

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