Riding High For Local Charities

The wheels are turning once again as the much-loved BMA River 2 Reef Ride returns to Mackay on 6 and 7 September, promising a high-energy weekend of cycling, creativity, and community contribution. With registrations opening on Thursday 3 April, the festival invites riders of all ages and skill levels to take part in an event that not only celebrates fitness and fun, but also drives real change in the region.

A highlight of this year’s festival is the unveiling of the 2025 BMA River 2 Reef Ride jersey, featuring a vibrant, original design by emerging youth artist Abigail Preston of Whitsunday Anglican School. Selected from a competitive field of entries, Abigail’s artwork will be worn proudly by over 500 cyclists, earning her both regional recognition and a $500 cash prize.

This year’s runner-up, Bentley Mcloughlin of Clontarf Foundation Mackay Academy at Mackay State High School, received $250, while third place went to Oliver Galletly, also from Whitsunday Anglican School, who received $100 for his design.

The festival also delivered a major win for local charities, raising an impressive $40,000 for BMA CQ Rescue and Disabled Sport & Rec Mackay (DSRM). This brings the total raised over the past three years to more than $100,000, reflecting the event’s strong focus on community support.

Linda Murry, general manager of BHP Mitsubishi Alliance’s (BMA) Hay Point Coal Terminal, emphasised the importance of the ongoing partnership.

“BMA is proud to continue our partnership with river 2 reef ride, now in its 4th year, an event that not only encourages fitness and fun but also directly benefits vital local organisations.

“Seeing the community come together each year for such a fantastic cause is truly inspiring.”

Cyclists can look forward to a diverse line-up of rides designed for all experience levels, including both competitive and family-friendly options:

Saturday, 6 September:

• Criterium Race

• Family-Friendly Golding Kids Colour Ride

Sunday, 7 September:

• 30km Queensland Country Health Fund Dash

• 60km City Fitness Epic

• 100km Kaeser Compressors Gran Fondo

Registrations open 3 April. For more details and to register, visit www.river2reefride.com.au

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Abigail Preston, Bentley Mcloughlin, and Oliver Galletly were recognised for their creative jersey designs as part of the 2024 BMA River 2 Reef Ride youth art competition. Photo credit: Deanne Woods | Deanne Woods Photography

Representatives from BMA CQ Rescue and Disabled Sport & Rec Mackay received a combined $40K from last year's event

Event organisers, student artists and charity representatives pictured following the announcement of $40,000 raised for local organisations and the unveiling of the 2025 ride jersey design

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