Flood impact sees Port Macquarie Ironman event postponed to September

Recent flooding in NSW has forced the Ironman Group to postpone its upcoming endurance event in Port Macquarie.

Due to be held on 2nd May, the ongoing impact of the recent floods in the region has meant that this year’s event will not take place on its original date, with Dave Beeche, Ironman Group Oceania Managing Director advising of the move after consultation with Port Macquarie-Hastings Council.

Set to welcome thousands of spectators and participants, Beeche explained that calling off the event was an incredibly tough decision to make but one done in the best interests of the community.

Beeche noted “last week our team spent time in the region to assess the impact of the recent floods and what it means for this year’s event.

“During this visit, it was evident that hosting the event as planned is not in the best interests of the community, who are facing a long road to recovery. While on the surface the region has made great progress to get back on its feet quickly, the reality is that hundreds of homes, businesses, infrastructure, water quality and lives have been severely impacted.

“On top of that there is also a huge demand on the local workforce, following what has already been an incredibly difficult 18 months with bushfires and COVID-19 restrictions.

“Our thoughts continue to go out to all of those affected and we are looking into ways that the IRONMAN community can help support those most in need.

“We know for some athletes this will be the third time they have received this news, and we are truly sorry you are yet to experience the IRONMAN finish line that you have continued to train so hard for.

“The National Storage IRONMAN Australia team can’t wait to return to the region to celebrate the 35th running of this iconic event, and are thankful to Port Macquarie-Hastings Council and our numerous stakeholders for coming together to secure a new date for the event on Sunday 5 September.”

Mayor Peta Pinson said that she is disappointed that Ironman’s long-awaited return to Port Macquarie has been postponed, commenting “anyone who has experienced Ironman here in Port Macquarie knows how much we love and embrace the event each year.

“Unfortunately, with many businesses, homes, roads and waterways impacted by the recent devastating floods, it’s with a heavy heart we say that May is too soon.

“While we look to rebuild and recover from the floods, we greatly appreciate Ironman’s continued support. We look forward to seeing your return to Port Macquarie soon.”

The Local Organising Committee that works alongside The Ironman Group Oceania team to deliver the Port Macquarie event also noted their support for the tough decision.

Committee spokesperson Danny Suitor, stated “the impact and devastation of these floods is still very much in the minds of our community and many residents and volunteers are still working tirelessly on the clean-up

“We feel for the Ironman athletes given previous cancellations, but the welfare of our local community must take precedence in this situation.”

With the rescheduled race to now take place on 5th September, Beeche added “(the) team can’t wait to return to the region to celebrate the 35th running of this iconic event, and are thankful to Port Macquarie-Hastings Council and our numerous stakeholders for coming together to secure a new date for the event.”

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