The Great Island Trek

Saturday, 7 August 2027

Picnic Bay, Magnetic Island, QLD

Where to stay for race weekend

← 2026 edition

About This Event

Run or walk the stunning trails of Magnetic Island on 7 August 2027. Choose from 5km‑25km routes, soak up coastal scenery, historic forts and a post‑trek music party – ideal for beginners and seasoned trekkers alike.

Events & entry fees

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Saturday 7 August

25km

6:30am

$96
18km

7:30am

$88
12km

7:55am

$79
5km

Start TBA

TBA

Entry fees as listed on 30 Aug 2026. Prices often rise after early bird, so check the entry page for today's price.

Quick Facts

Date: Saturday, 07 August 2027
Terrain: Trail
Location: Picnic Bay, Magnetic Island, QLD
Entry Fee: $95.70 (varies by distance)
Difficulty: Moderate
Start Time: 6:30 AM (first wave — see schedule)
Good for Beginners: Yes – the 5km option is beginner‑friendly, while longer distances provide added challenge.

Free training

Training for The Great Island Trek?

Race day is Sat 7 Aug 2027, 40 weeks away. Free training plans start up to 20 weeks before race day, so a plan for it can start from 22 March. Save it now; until then, 12 weeks of building is a good start.

Save the 5K

Free with a MyRaceHub account. Saves the race to your races and opens training setup.

Event Details

Date Saturday, 7 August 2027

Location Picnic Bay, Magnetic Island, QLD

State QLD

Organizer The Great Island Trek

Course Description

The Great Island Trek launches from Picnic Bay Jetty and winds through Magnetic Island’s iconic trail network. Runners will pass the sweeping views over Geoffrey Bay, climb to the Sphinx Lookout, explore WWII forts, descend to Florence Bay and tackle the Searchlight Tower out‑and‑back. The 25km route adds a climb to Hawkings Point for panoramic Cleveland Bay vistas before looping back to the finish line at the Nomads venue for the TrekFest celebration. Expect mixed terrain – sandy tracks, rocky climbs and forest paths – all fully supported with hydration stations and bag transfers.

Getting There

The trek starts at Picnic Bay Jetty on Magnetic Island. Most participants arrive via the SeaLink passenger ferry from Townsville to Nelly Bay, then walk to the start line. A charter bus returns trekkers to the Nelly Bay ferry terminal after the event. For exact parking, ferry schedules and other transport details, visit the official event website.

Where to Stay

Places to stay near the start, priced for race weekend.

We may earn a small referral fee if you book through this map — you pay the same price.

Weather & What to Pack

August is winter in Queensland, but Magnetic Island enjoys mild conditions – typically 12‑22 °C with low humidity and plenty of sunshine. Dress in layers: a breathable base layer, a light fleece or long‑sleeve top, and a wind‑proof jacket for exposed sections. A hat and sunglasses are useful for bright mornings, and a reusable water bottle or hydration pack will keep you comfortable.

Race details last updated 18 Oct 2026

Ready to run The Great Island Trek?

Official Website

Frequently Asked Questions

When does registration open and how can I sign up?

Registration opens on 1 February 2027 at 12 noon on the event website. You can register online and select your preferred distance. Early entry is recommended as spots can fill quickly.

Are the races competitive or timed?

The Great Island Trek is a fully supported, non‑competitive adventure. Finish times are recorded for personal reference, but there are no prizes for speed.

What gear and supplies should I bring?

Wear sturdy trail shoes, layered clothing for winter conditions, and a hat or sunglasses. Bring a refillable hydration pack – the event provides water stations but no plastic bottles. A small snack and a waterproof bag for personal items are advisable.

Is the event pet‑free and what about biosecurity?

Yes – the event is pest‑free. Ensure all clothing and gear are seed‑free before arrival, stay on marked tracks, and take any rubbish with you to the provided recycling bins.

What happens if I miss the cut‑off time?

Each distance has a cut‑off (e.g., 25km at 10:30 am). If you do not finish by the cut‑off, you will be escorted off the course. For detailed cut‑off times and refund policies, check the official website.