General News
18 May, 2025
Wheely great fundraiser
TWENTY-ONE teams have made their return to Cairns this week, having spent last weekend running 140kms across Far North Queensland’s Tablelands as part of 2025’s Mareeba and Dimbulah Community Bank Great Wheelbarrow Race.
With spectators seeing almost 50 different teams take off from the Mareeba starting line on Friday, May 9, over 20 of these teams hailed from the Cairns region, many taking places in the top 10 leaderboard as teams crossed the Chillagoe finish line on Sunday, May 11.
With teams travelling along the Far North’s historic ‘Wheelbarrow Way’, the race pays tribute to the region’s 19th-century pioneers, who, faced with limited transport and uncertain prospects, would push wheelbarrows loaded with their belongings as they searched for work across the region.
Each having chosen a charity or local club, all 48 competing teams had been active in organising fundraisers and campaign events in the lead-up to the event, working to raise as much money as possible before donating to their chosen cause.
Raising a total of $93,342 in 2024, this year saw the event raise a combined total of up to $250,000.
This year, raising over $9500 for chosen charity Three Angels Nepal, Freshwater Christian College’s ‘Freshie Flyers’ team is a long-running participant in the race, this year finishing in 10th place with a total time of 8 hours, 40 minutes and 16 seconds.
Freshwater Christian College executive principal Matthew Scott said the race wouldn’t have been possible without the incredible efforts of the team’s dedicated support crew consisting of parents, staff and alumni.
“What a weekend it was for our year 12 wheelbarrow race team,” Mr Scott said.
“They capped off an unforgettable experience with a fantastic performance, finishing 10th overall after conquering 140kms in 8 hours, 40 minutes, and 16 seconds.
“While their achievement on the course was impressive, the memories forged along the way were even more significant.
“We also extend our sincere gratitude to our generous sponsors and all who contributed to our fundraising efforts, which allowed us to surpass our goals and raise over $9500 for the vital work of Three Angels Nepal.”
Member for Cook David Kempton MP said he was proud the Great Wheelbarrow Race had become the event that brought Far North Queenslanders together.
“The Great Wheelbarrow Race is more than just a competition,” he said.
“It brings communities together, celebrates our unique heritage, and injects energy into regional Queensland. Events like this are vital to the spirit and economy of our smaller townships.”
