Race director John Purcell and volunteer Steve Mentiplay with the South Burnett Express Rail Trail Relay perpetual trophy at last year’s event

July 20, 2026

Entries are now open for the 6th annual South Burnett Express Rail Trail Relay, a unique running event hosted in the South Burnett by the Ashgrove Rangers Athletics Club.

The race – which will be run on Sunday, July 26 –  follows the rail trail from Kingaroy to Wondai and back, a distance of about 60km.

Teams of between five to eight run legs that range from 400m to just under 8km, with most runners covering about 5km before tagging their teammate.

“Six years in, we have established a great format. What keeps people coming back is the combination of a great location and a love for running,” race director John Purcell said.

Queensland Athletics has sanctioned the 2026 event as the State Road Relay Championships, adding a competitive edge for those chasing the title.

“We get everything from serious club runners to groups of mates who’ve signed up as a fitness goal. Everyone is welcome,” John said.

The social side of the event is a big part of the appeal.

Teams are encouraged to make a weekend of it. There’s a dinner before the race, and a barbecue and presentations at O’Neill Square once the last runner crosses the line.

Line honours in 2025 went to the South Burnett “Pinnacle Mixed” team … at back, from left, Matthew McCauley, Nathan Boburka, Daniel Etherington, Darren Farmilo, Jimmy Maxwell and Britt Watson; front row, Aidan Etherington and Kimi Saito

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