Pilliga Ultra
Coonabarabran, Australia • 18-20 Sep 2026
Event Overview
The Pilliga Ultra is a running event that brings people to the Pilliga Forest in New South Wales. It aims to support local community efforts to recognize the forest's cultural and environmental significance and its biodiversity. The event focuses on learning about the area and why it should be protected from threats like coal seam gas mining.
Race Options
The event offers several race distances:
- Pilliga 10K
- Pilliga 20K
- Pilliga Ultra 50K
- Pilliga Ultra Grand Slam
- Kids’ race
- Elders Walk
The event is described as suitable for runners and hikers of all fitness levels, with generous cut-off times for some distances. Training plans are available for the 10K, 20K, and 50K distances.
Event Details and Support
The event takes place from September 18th to 20th, 2026, at Pilliga Pottery / Barkala Farm. A weekend schedule includes races, a Welcome to Country ceremony, gasfield tours, workshops, guided walks, live music, and communal dinners. Catered dinner tickets are available for purchase.
The event is not a mandatory fundraiser. Instead, 10% of each race entry and 50% of event profits are contributed to a community fund managed by For Wild Places. This fund supports local initiatives to bring more people to the Pilliga. The event utilizes local suppliers and welcomes local musicians, artists, and groups.
Location and Accommodation
The venue, Pilliga Pottery, is approximately a six-hour drive from Sydney. The closest airport is in Narrabri. On-site accommodation includes camping, self-contained, and bunk room options. Other accommodations are available in nearby towns like Coonabarabran and Narrabri. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.