Community & Business
12 May, 2026
Race reaches $3M milestone
FUNDS raised through the Great Wheelbarrow Race over the past 22 years has surpassed $3 million.
The annual event, which involves competitors running 140km from Mareeba to Chillagoe, ended on Sunday, with Missy’s Donors men’s team named the overall winners of the 2026 race.
Missy’s Donors run to raise money to spread awareness about the constant need for lifesaving blood and plasma donations, with a men’s and women’s team competing this year.
At least $160,000 has been raised by all 47 teams who participated in the race, but the final figure is still being collated.
“The 2026 Great Wheelbarrow Race was a fantastic event,” Wheelbarrow Race committee chair Cr Ross Cardillo said.
“On the road, we saw incredible efforts from all participants, who gave their best and did it all for a good cause.
“New friendships were formed, community spirit was strong, and we look forward to announcing the final fundraising total in the coming days.
“None of this would be possible without the support of Mareeba Shire Council, the Great Wheelbarrow Race committee, our volunteers, and our generous sponsors.”
Results:
Overall winner: Missy’s Donors Men’s
Overall 2nd place: Wheeling Vessels
Overall 3rd place: Costa Berry
Category winners:
Over 55s: Dad’s Army
Over 35s: RESINC Solar
Fitness Club team: Umi Zoomies
Ladies team: Missy’s Donors Ladies
Mens: Missy’s Donors Men’s
Mixed team: Wheeling Vessles
School team: SSCC Saints Juniors
Solo male: Rinaldo Lookene
Duo: Current State of Mind
Trio: Hohns Heroes
Social team (random draw): Kuranda Rollies.
Team Spirit Award: RESINC Solar were the winners of the Sandy Butler Team Spirit Award. Although they originally signed up as a team, a few runners became unavailable. Despite this, they still competed with just three runners and remained positive and enthusiastic throughout the entire event.
