Hervey Bay will soon welcome its newest community running event with the announcement of the inaugural Hervey Bay Half Marathon Festival, set to take place on Sunday, 21 June 2026.
Organised by Atlas Events — the team behind some of Australia’s most loved running festivals — the event will celebrate the unique beauty and community spirit of Hervey Bay.
With distances including the Half Marathon, 10km, 5km, and 2km Mini Marathon, the Festival will offer something for everyone, from seasoned runners chasing a personal best to families enjoying a fun day out together.
Jason Crowther, Managing Director of Atlas Events, said the new event will be as much about community connection as it is about running.
“We’re excited to launch the Hervey Bay Half Marathon Festival, an event that will not only showcase this beautiful part of Queensland, but also bring people together through running,” Mr Crowther said.
“Our vision is to create a running festival that the local community feels proud of, one that highlights Hervey Bay’s natural assets and builds a tradition for years to come.”
Runners and families will enjoy a scenic course along the famous Esplanade, with the stunning Fraser Coast coastline providing the perfect backdrop.
The Festival will also partner with local charities and community groups, ensuring that the event gives back to the region from the very beginning.
Beyond the race itself, the Festival is expected to deliver significant economic and tourism benefits for the Fraser Coast region. Events of this scale typically attract thousands of participants and supporters, many of whom travel from outside the region, staying in local accommodation, dining in restaurants, and exploring nearby attractions.
By hosting the Festival in June — just before the region’s whale watching season kicks off— organisers hope to encourage runners and their families to extend their stay, enjoying everything Hervey Bay has to offer. From world-class encounters with humpback whales to visiting K’gari (Fraser Island), the event aims to promote the region as both a running destination and a holiday escape.
Fraser Coast Mayor George Seymour said Council is proud to be a major sponsor for the Hervey Bay Half Marathon Festival as it encourages people of all ages to get active, connect with others and enjoy the incredible lifestyle we have here on the Fraser Coast.
“This event will also bring a real economic boost to our city, filling our hotels and cafes, supporting local businesses, and encouraging visitors to stay longer,” he said.
Registrations will open 17 September 2025, with organisers expecting strong interest from both locals and runners travelling from across Queensland and beyond.
