Sealink Magnetic Island Race Week
Sealink Magnetic Island Race Week
If there’s one week each year when Magnetic Island truly comes alive, it’s during the Sealink Magnetic Island Race Week. For five thrilling days, the waters around the island are filled with colour as yachts from across the country set sail in a spectacular display of competition and camaraderie.
But this event isn’t just about sailing. Race Week stretches across seven days of festivities, with the island hosting a full calendar of entertainment, live music, dining events, and community celebrations. Whether you’re a keen sailor, a passionate spectator, or just looking for an unforgettable time on Magnetic Island, this is the week to circle on your calendar.
From the moment the first sails rise to the final celebrations onshore, the island pulls out all the stops, and there’s no better way to experience its vibrant spirit than being here for Race Week.
Thursday, 28 August – Yachties Welcome
Race Week kicks off with registration at Peppers Race HQ from 1–5 pm, followed by Yachties Hour and the Skippers Briefing on the deck. As the sun sets, live band Shots Fired (Power 100) gets the party started.
Friday, 29 August – Tan Lines Distilling Race Day
Start the day with a free community breakfast at Nelly Bay Terminal (6–9 am) alongside a Star 106.3 live broadcast. Lunch stretches into the afternoon with the Star 106.3 Long Lunch at Peppers Boardwalk Restaurant. The evening heats up with DJ Delicious on the deck, Yachties Hour, and a live set from 45 RPM.
Saturday, 30 August – Tropic Petroleum Race Day
Get your best Shipwrecked and Surviving costume ready for the themed dress-up day. Yachties Hour runs 5–6 pm, followed by live music from Cranky Pants until late at Peppers HQ Deck.
Sunday, 31 August – Townsville Airport Island Breeze Festival
A big day at Picnic Bay with artisan markets, food stalls, kids’ activities, and scenic flights from 9 am–2 pm, plus live music by Godfathers of Funk (12–5 pm). Highlights include the Sand Castle Competition, the Great Inflatable Race, and mud crab races raising funds for the MI Koala Hospital. Peppers HQ will also host live music from Tess Latu (5–9 pm).
Monday, 1 September – Visit Queensland Race Day
Kick off the evening with Yachties Hour, then enjoy the Hawaiian-themed crew party with Boosted DJ on the Peppers HQ Deck. Sponsors and skippers gather for their evening at the Townsville Yacht Club.
Tuesday, 2 September – Townsville City Council Race Day
A relaxed night featuring Yachties Hour and live entertainment by Tim Griffin.
Wednesday, 3 September – Peppers Race Day & Presentation Night
The week wraps up in style with the Peppers Presentation Dinner (5:30–7:30 pm) and official Race Week Presentations (7–8 pm), followed by Groove Duo carrying the celebrations through to 10:30 pm.
Click the images below to view the full MI Race Week program.
Photo credit: Whitney at Revolution Productions