Record numbers for this weekend’s Marathon festival

The EVA Air Sunshine Coast Marathon Festival will take place on Sunday 11 August, coinciding with the women's Olympic marathon in Paris that will take place later on Sunday afternoon. This year's festival has attracted a record numbers, with close to 12,000 participants set to run the streets of Mooloolaba, Alexandra Headland, and Maroochydore.

This year's event, will also host the Queensland and Australian Half Marathon Championships, attracting top-tier athletes from Australia and overseas, including former Olympic Marathon runner Lisa Weightman.

Featuring a full marathon, half marathon, 10km, 5km, and 2km events, the event promises stunning Sunshine Coast Ocean views, drawing runners of all levels to experience this unique course.

Event Director Jason Crowther was thrilled to announce that the EVA Air Sunshine Coast Marathon Festival had achieved record numbers.

"The incredible response highlights the growing popularity of our event and its importance as a major sporting event in the region."

"We are deeply grateful to everyone who has supported this event and contributed to its success."

Community benefit

The influx of visitors is expected to have a positive impact on the local economy, with accommodations and hotels at capacity.

Significant funds have already been raised for the event's major beneficiary, Ronald McDonald House Charities, along with partner charities Westpac Rescue Helicopter Service and Wishlist Sunshine Coast.

To date, the festival has generated over $200,000, showcasing the strong community spirit and commitment to charitable causes.

Sunshine Coast Council Economy Portfolio Councillor Joe Natoli said our region was recognised as a leading outdoor events destination and was a proud home to this long-running sports festival.

“It is excellent to have international competitors coming from the UK, USA, France and Portugal to name a few, and thousands more from across Australia.

“They will join a strong local contingent of marathon and half marathon enthusiasts participating in this year’s event.

“As one of the highlights of the Sunshine Coast’s major events calendar, it will continue to attract further international interest with the Sunshine Coast a planned venue for both the Olympic and Paralympic marathon for the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games.

“It is an inspiring opportunity to see more than 11,000 competitors racing along our coastline with spectators cheering them on along the course.”

Getting around Mooloolaba, Alexandra Headland and Maroochydore

Road closures are limited to race day between 4am to 1pm at the latest, across Alexandra Headland, Mooloolaba and Maroochydore. The Sunshine Motorway remains OPEN at all times.

Participants and general public can book tickets on the Park N Ride Shuttle bus, with two locations that drop you 200metres from the event start 

• Maroochydore Football Club - 462 Maroochdyore Road, Kuluin
• Buderim, Syd Lingard Drive 

Why not ride your bike or scooter? Secure bike and scooter parking will be available just meters from the start line at Cooloolathin Park,  Alexandra Pde the grassy area (beachside) between Katoa Street and Okinja Road. The Think Change Bike Valet is staffed from 5am until 1pm to ensure your device remains secure while you enjoy the event.

Now that 50c fares are here (GoCard required), plan your journey on a Kinetic bus 

Residents and attendees are encouraged to click below for maps and details on road closures and transportation options, ensuring a smooth experience for all.

Looking forward

This event is one of the highlights of the Sunshine Coast’s major events calendar, supported by Council through the Major Events Sponsorship Program and the Queensland Government through Tourism and Events Queensland.

It continues to attract further international interest with the Sunshine Coast as a planned venue for both the Olympic and Paralympic marathon for the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games.