South Burnett Rail Trail Relay

 Entries are now open for the “South Burnett Express Rail Trail Relay” to be held on Sunday, 30 April 2023, the Labour Day long weekend. 

Starting at Kingaroy, teams of between 5 and 8 run relay legs all the way to Wondai and back. The course is approximately 60km with the shortest leg being 400m and the longest just short of 8km. On average runners will run 5km per leg before handing over to the next person in their team. 

The event was first held in 2021 and is now in its 3rd consecutive year. The format has proven popular with everyone working together to finish the course in the fastest time possible. 

“I think we have been successful in reinvigorating in the interest in long distance relays”, says event spokesperson Dan Murray “Team based running is fun where members of all levels come together to compete”. Murray adds “The rail trail is a real asset to the region and a lot of runners are coming back just because of what it has to offer”. 

Queensland Athletics has also announced the event will be 2023 State Road Relay Championships. This decision backs the growing interest in long distance relays and no doubt will attract more teams from around Queensland and local surrounds all eager to take out the coveted title. 

Social teams are also welcome especially those who want to get out there, have some fun and just finish the course. Murray reconfirmed “There is a really supportive atmosphere where everyone encourages each other. We also have a dinner the night before and a BBQ at the end of the race. Its all about coming together and having a bit of fun”. 

Event organisers are keen to bring more visitors to the region. Murray added “We have had wonderful support from the South Burnett Council, the South Burnett Rail Trail Users Association and the Kingaroy and Wondai running fraternity. We are also encouraging everyone to stay a couple of nights and use their spare time to visit local attractions or just use the time to relax”. 

Event organisers are confident the event will continue to grow over the coming years and is becoming one of the “must do” long distance relays on the calendar for format, location and scenery. This event also adds to others being held in the region including the Wondai Running Festival and the Dead Cow Gully Ultra Marathon, both of which will also be held later in the year. 

For more information or to sign up please visit www.southburnettexpress.run