NOMINATIONS have opened for one of Far North Queensland’s most iconic events, the Great Wheelbarrow Race.
Taking place on 19 to 21 May, this year’s event will have a new look.
Organising committee chair and Mareeba Shire councillor Nipper Brown said it was time to “bring the gold home” to Mareeba.
“After careful consideration and community consultation with key stakeholders, the decision was made to revive and refresh the signature event,” Cr Brown said.
The race will start in Chillagoe – traditionally the end of the event – for the first time in its 13 year history, with participants departing on 19 May.
Mareeba will host the finish, some 144km later on the Sunday afternoon.
Categories include teams (female, male or mixed) of up to 10 people, solo and duo competitors, over 35s and over 55s, school students, emergency services and defence forces and mixed and social teams.
Cr Brown said the committee was looking forward to the event and urged those interested in competing to get their nominations in early.
“Last year, competitors raised a total of $200,000 for a range of charities including FNQ Cerebral Palsy, Royal Flying Doctor Service, Mareeba Animal Refuge, Breast Cancer Foundation and Mareeba Hospital,” Cr Brown said.
“Some teams go to remarkable lengths to raise money for their nominated charity during the lead up to the race.”
Updates leading up to the event will be posted on the event’s website and Facebook page.
Nominations close on 1 May 2017. Forms are available here
