Community & Business
6 May, 2026
Excitement builds for Great WBR
HUNDREDS of people will march down the main street of Mareeba in vibrant clothing and decorated buses this Friday morning as they set out on their three-day, 140km journey to Chillagoe.
The Great Wheelbarrow Race is upon us once again, with the popular street parade set to kick the event off from 9.30am this Friday.
This year’s race will see 39 teams, one trio, two duos, and five solos push a wheelbarrow from Mareeba all the way to Chillagoe over three days. Each year, teams raise money for dozens of different charities and organisations, with the event having raised just shy of $3 million in its 23 years.
“We’re thrilled to celebrate the return of the Great Wheelbarrow Race in its 23rd year, kicking off with the much-loved parade through Byrnes St,” event chair Ross Cardillo said.
“This vibrant event brings hundreds of runners and spectators together and showcases the incredible spirit of our local communities. Join us on Friday to line the streets, cheer on the teams, and officially send them off as they begin their remarkable journey to Chillagoe.”
After all the runners cross the finish line in Chillagoe, a presentation ceremony will be held to crown the 2026 champions in each category. There’ll also be an extra surprise awaiting them, with the Chillagoe Festival now being held following the race.
Mareeba Mayor Angela Toppin encouraged the community to stay on after the race to enjoy the local festival and see what it has to offer.
“The afternoon will feature live music and bush poetry, celebrating local talent and the strong community spirit of Chillagoe,” she said.
