Signature marathon delivers significant economic boost

This figure represents an impressive increase of almost $4 million on the 2023 event, showcasing the growing success of the festival and its impact on the community.

Total attendance for the 2024 event surged to 26,539, up from 20,459 in 2023, reflecting the festival’s appeal to both locals and visitors from across Australia and overseas. The significant rise in participants and spectators has contributed to increased accommodation bookings, hospitality spending, and local tourism activity, benefitting a wide range of businesses in the region.

Event Director Jason Crowther highlighted the festival's growth, saying, the EVA Air Sunshine Coast Marathon Festival continued to attract more runners, families, and supporters each year. 

"The jump in economic impact is a testament to the Sunshine Coast Marathon's status as the region's flagship sporting event, reinforcing its reputation on both the local and national event calendar, Mr Crowther said.

"We are proud to contribute to the region’s prosperity and provide a world-class marathon experience that draws visitors from around the globe."

The 2024 festival also saw record participation numbers, with runners competing across various events, including the full marathon, half marathon, and shorter-distance races. The stunning coastal backdrop of Alexandra Headland and its role as a future host for the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games has helped elevate the profile of the marathon, further enhancing its appeal.

Tourism and Events Queensland CEO Patricia O’Callaghan said it’s fantastic to see Queensland events thrive. 

“The Sunshine Coast Marathon has set a new pace for its event with record attendance and almost doubling its economic contribution.

“Queensland has a strong reputation of hosting world-class sporting events and it’s great to see the Sunshine Coast Marathon Festival going from strength to strength.

“In the golden runway to the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games there’s more excitement than ever before for Queensland sporting events.”

With the continued support of sponsors, including EVA Air, the festival is set to grow even further in the lead-up to the Games, solidifying its place as a key economic driver for the Sunshine Coast region.

Sunshine Coast Mayor Rosanna Natoli said she had been fortunate to have a first-hand view from the 2024 starting line.

“What a mammoth event the marathon festival has become,” Mayor Natoli said.

“Congratulations to Atlas Events for providing such a magnificent experience.

“This event means a lot to a lot of people.

“It benefits so many people – from  volunteers to the record number of participants, local businesses and, of course, the many charity organisations who receive vital funding.”

“This event clearly delivers a significant economic boost towards achieving the $100 million target set by this Council’s  Major Events Sponsorship Program.

“We are a globally competitive sports destination, and we are creating opportunities that strengthen our local economy, now and into the future.”

The EVA Air Sunshine Coast Marathon Festival is supported by the Queensland Government through Tourism and Events Queensland, and the Sunshine Coast Council.