Leonora Golden Gift
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Event Details
About This Event
Australia's richest mile race on a bitumen outback main street, with $65,000 prize money up for grabs. Held in Leonora, WA over the WA Day long weekend, combining elite athletics with a full community carnival.
Course Description
The centrepiece of the Leonora Golden Gift is the iconic Elite Mile — run along the sealed main street of Leonora in the heart of the Western Australian goldfields. The flat, fast bitumen course gives elite athletes an ideal surface to compete for Australia's richest mile prize purse. Family athletics events round out the programme, with the outback townscape providing a unique and memorable backdrop. The combination of crisp late-autumn air and a lively carnival atmosphere makes this a truly one-of-a-kind running experience far from the city.
Quick Facts
Getting There
Leonora is located 234km north of Kalgoorlie via the Great Eastern Highway and Goldfields Highway, approximately 2.5 hours by car. Limited regional flights may be available into Kalgoorlie, with onward road travel required. Arrive early as the town centre fills quickly over the WA Day long weekend. Check the official website for parking and event access details.
Weather & What to Pack
Late May in Leonora brings cool to mild outback conditions, with daytime temperatures typically ranging from 12°C to 22°C and cold nights that can drop below 5°C. Expect clear skies and low humidity — ideal for fast running but bring layers for early morning and evening events. Sun protection and hydration remain important even in autumn, as the goldfields sun can be deceptive. Pack a jacket for the evening entertainment.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Leonora Golden Gift?
The Leonora Golden Gift is an annual outback running carnival held over the WA Day long weekend. Its centrepiece is the Elite Mile, Australia's richest mile race, run along Leonora's main street with $65,000 in prize money. The weekend also includes family athletics, live music, fireworks, lawn bowls, and market stalls.
Can non-elite runners participate?
Yes — while the Elite Mile attracts top-level competitors, the programme includes athletics events for the whole family. Check the official website's programme page for the full schedule of open and age-group events.
How do I get to Leonora?
Leonora is 234km north of Kalgoorlie in the WA goldfields, roughly a 2.5-hour drive. The most common route is via the Great Eastern and Goldfields Highways. Given the WA Day long weekend, book accommodation early as options in town are limited.
Where can I stay for the event?
Leonora has limited accommodation including the historic State Hotel and caravan/camping options. Given the popularity of the event over the long weekend, book well in advance. The Travel & Stay section of the official website has up-to-date recommendations.
How do I enter the race?
Entries are managed through the official Leonora Golden Gift website at leonoragoldengift.com. Visit the Enter section for registration links, entry fees, and event categories. Entry requirements and qualifying standards may apply for the Elite Mile.
Last updated: 11 April 2026
