READY – STEADY – NO GO! Australia’s largest Triathlon event cancelled
The iconic Noosa Triathlon in Queensland’s picturesque Sunshine coast – which is the largest Olympic distance triathlon in the world – has been cancelled until further notice, after the council unanimously voted to limit the event to a maximum of 500 people, due to COVID-19.
The largest triathlon in Australia and the biggest multi-sport festival in the southern hemisphere, is part of the IRONMAN Group’s global portfolio of events each year, the world’s largest mass participation sports event company. The Noosa triathlon is a pinnacle event on the Australian sporting calendar and is ranked as one of the top 10 triathlons and for good reason.
In 2019, the Noosa festival attracted more than 8,000 national and international competitors, along with thousands of spectators to Queensland’s stunning shores to tackle the world class event. Last year the event sold out in less than 6 hours – a record time in the event’s history.
Dave Beeche, Managing Director of The Ironman Group Oceania, said while he empathised with Noosa Council, he felt the event could have been held in a way that complied with Queensland Health guidelines. “Obviously we’re incredibly disappointed with today’s decision”
Mr Beeche said locals had been in favour of the event going ahead as planned.
“The feedback we were getting from Noosa Chamber of Commerce, Hastings St Association, and other community groups, is that they were supportive of the event proceeding, not only for the economic benefits but for the physical and mental health benefits that are becoming increasingly important during this crisis,” he said.
“However, organisers recognise the difficult position that Noosa Council is in, respect their decision, and look forward to working with council on the 2021 event.”
Nonetheless, the decision has still been slammed by local groups. President-elect of the Noosa Chamber of Commerce Rob Neely said it should have been up to Queensland’s Chief Health Officer to decide the fate of the event.“Councils are not meant to be delving into the areas of epidemiology and they’re not qualified to do the same,” he said.
In response, Noosa Mayor Clare Stewart said the council was committed to ensuring “major iconic events such as the Noosa Tri still had a future” but the vote came down to protecting residents in the region.
