The Don River Dash is an endurance race for dirt bikes, buggies, cars and trophy trucks.
Competitors take on the fast, shifting sands of the (mostly) dry Don River bed in Bowen, at the top of the Whitsundays in Queensland. Spectators line the banks to watch the non-stop action, and with each competitor completing six laps of the river across the two-day event, there is plenty to see.
On Friday night, the pits are opened to the public for scrutineering. Food vans, live music and a licensed bar create a relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere where spectators can meet the riders and drivers and take a close look at their vehicles. Both the race and the Friday night scrutineering are free for spectators to attend.
The 2026 Don River Dash marks the eighth running of this iconic event, now firmly established as one of Australia's premier off-road endurance races. It attracts a diverse field, from passionate grassroots competitors to elite athletes.
Past entrants include Toby Price, Dean Ferris, Brett Comiskey, Talbot Cox, Michael Marson, Billy Geddes, David Walsh, Ben Grabham, Liam Walsh, Jesse Moore, Ivan Long and Bailey Cole. The Don River Dash stands out for its unique ability to bring all levels of competitors together on the same striking natural course.
Plan your trip to Bowen, The Whitsundays this September.
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