Whitsunday Trail Fest

Event Overview

The Whitsunday Trail Fest in 2026 marks its 20th year, having originated in 2005. It is organized by the Whitsunday Running Club. The event takes place in Airlie Beach, Queensland, Australia.

Event Schedule

A race precinct is set up on the Airlie Beach Foreshore at the Sound Stage. On the Saturday before the event, there is registration, late entries, and race pack collection from the precinct. A Parkrun is also scheduled for that morning at Coral Sea Marina.

The main event day is Sunday, September 13, 2026. Multiple races start at different times from early morning through late morning. Presentations for the top three female and male winners in each race are scheduled to begin at midday.

Available Races

Participants can choose from several trail and beach running events:

• WTF58 Accom Whitsunday Ultra: A 58 km out-and-back ultra trail course starting at the race precinct. It ascends into Conway Circuit National Park and is self-supported for the first 28 km. The terrain includes fire trails, narrow walking tracks, steep sections, and creek crossings. Participants must be at least 18 years old and be experienced trail runners.
• WTF28 Whitsunday Trail: A 28 km point-to-point trail run from Brandy Creek to Airlie Beach. This is the original and most popular distance. Mandatory gear must be presented at race pack collection. A bus transports runners from the precinct to the start at Brandy Creek. The cutoff time is 6 hours and 30 minutes.
• Honeyeater Shokz Challenge: An 11 km trail run that ascends to a lookout overlooking the Coral Sea. Participants must be at least 15 years old. The cutoff time is 3 hours.
• Bendigo Community Bank Kids Beach Bash: A 1 mile (approximately) out-and-back beach run for participants aged 8 and over.
• Bendigo Community Bank Junior Beach Bash: A 700 m beach run for participants aged 4 and over.

Registration and Inclusions

Registration for all events opens in stages, with standard and late fee periods. An event shirt is guaranteed for entries received by June 30, 2026. All finishers receive a medal. A numbered race bib and pins are also provided. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.