Once a year the tiny Burke Shire town hosts a duo of sporting events; the big annual race meet on Saturday and the Gregory River Canoe Marathon on Sunday.

It was a warm scene at Gregory river’s edge on Sunday despite the morning chill, as around a hundred paddlers eagerly set off in competition.

Now in its 41^st year, the Gregory River Canoe Race brought together people of all ages from across the North West and further afield; Sunshine Coast, Gold Coast, and Atherton Tablelands.

Hundreds of spectators camped along the river’s edge, cheering the boats on from the tree-lined banks.

A mustering helicopter allowed an aerial view for some, with canoes dotting the pristine surface of the river from The Knobbies to the bridge at Gregory Downs.

In first place for the full length 38km course was Steve Jenje, who has paddled the race 33 times and also won in 2016.

Coming in close behind in second place was newcomer Alan Cross, paddling the Greogyr River for the first time. 

Many novice paddlers teamed up to race the river in relay style, passing four checkpoints before reaching the finish line.

Omnipresent event organiser Alison Whitehead MC’d the final hours of the race as all manner of vessels floated to the finish.

Our photo gallery is coming soon including aerial views from the helicopter – stay tuned!