Nominate Now for Wheelbarrow Race
Mareeba Shire Council 21 Mar 2021

The Great Wheelbarrow Race organising committee is encouraging teams to nominate for this year’s event sooner rather than later to ensure the event goes ahead.

Committee Chair, Councillor Locky Bensted said the event is in jeopardy and all the cards are on the table.

“We have been working very hard behind the scenes to put this event together and keep the spirit of the race alive, however we need nominations,” Cr Bensted said.

“We have navigated our way through the COVID-19 requirements and we are confident the event can proceed in a COVID-safe way.

“At this stage, COVID-19 will not stop us from hosting the event however, a lack of nominations may mean the event has to be called off,” Cr Bensted said.

Councillor Bensted said the Council has been very supportive and is hopeful the event goes ahead however it may not be feasible to host the one-day event with the funds available.

“We have to ensure the event is run safely, that is our main priority,” Cr Bensted said.

“The costs of hosting the event is quite significant and without the nominations, it simply won’t be feasible.”

Councillor Bensted said in light of COVID-19 restrictions, the event was cancelled in 2020, and the committee was determined to keep the spirit of the race alive.

“The team has worked tirelessly to organise the event however, we need to be realistic and look at our costings and benefit to the community,” Cr Bensted said.

“The committee understands it is a massive commitment to organise a team, bus, fundraise so we want to give everyone as much notice as possible.

“We will need to make a call in early April so please if you’re thinking about participating, register before Friday 9 April 2021.”

Visit the event’s Facebook Page for updates and register at www.greatwheelbarrowrace.com