Don River Dash 2025 In Bowen
Enthusiasts of all things racing and off-roading should add the Don River Dash to their bucket list! With 2 days of thrilling racing on the Don River in Bowen between the 5th and 7th September 2025, this year's event is sure to be an unforgettable one! Check out our guide to the incredible Don River Dash so you can plan your trip up to the Whitsundays!
What is the Don River Dash?
The Don River Dash is an annual, 2-day off-road racing event on the Don River in Bowen, Queensland. The 2025 Don River Dash will be the 7th year of the highly successful event. Created by professional racers Michael Marson and Talbot Cox, the event brings together the local community and draws in passionate racers from around the world.
Car drivers and bikers will get to test their skills, grit, and endurance as they travel 25km upstream along the river bed. They will complete a 50km loop as they conquer the challenging, diverse, natural course and take on some epic jumps as well. Spectators can visit various spots along the Don River to get the best views of the action.
Where is the Don River Dash 2025?
The Don River Dash is held on the Don River in Bowen, a charming Queensland town on the mainland of the Whitsundays region. Bowen is located on Australia's East Coast, about 200km north of Mackay and 200km south of Townsville. It's also just 80km from Airlie Beach! With warm, tropical weather, swaying palm trees, and lush rainforests, Bowen is a stunning place to visit.
At the Don River, spectators can hang out in one of two designated areas along the course. The Pat McDonnell Earthmoving Spectator Area is located on Telegraph Road near the finish line. The Whitsunday Ag Services Spectator Area is located in Gladstone Park Road near the middle of the course.
Explore more of the Whitsundays region while visiting Bowen!
Competitor Information
The Don River Dash is a unique event in that it brings together world-class champions with local enthusiasts of all backgrounds! There is a healthy spirit of competition and passion for off-roading that touches everyone at the event.
Though the race has gained lots of traction, and has seen professional racers such as Toby Price, Brett Comiskey, Dean Ferris, Michael Marson, Talbot Cox, Billy Geddes, Ben Grabham, David Walsh, and Liam Walsh.
Those hoping to compete in the Don River Dash 2025 can race either cars or bikes. For bikes, you must be over 16 years of age and hold an MQ Senior Licence. The track is also open year-round, so competitors can pre-run the track if they wish.
Find more information or register to race on the Don River Dash website!
Community Events
The Don River Dash has much to offer in addition to just the races. Throughout the two days, there will be entertainment, food, and opportunities to mingle. The races will also be live-streamed for everyone to watch!
On Friday night, there will be a family-friendly event with food vendors, a bar operated by the Grand View Hotel, and live music. All the race vehicles and bikes will also be on display so you can observe them up close and chat with the drivers. This is a great way for the competitors to connect with the community and get the vibes going.
Real Mates Talk - 2025 Social Impact Partner for the Don River Dash
This year's Don River Dash is partnering with Real Mates Talk in order to bring awareness to the importance of mental health. Real Mates Talk serves to connect people and stimulate meaningful conversations about mental health and wellbeing. By breaking the stigma around mental health and encouraging people to seek help when needed, the initiative promotes positive change.
Throughout the Don River Dash weekend, there will be various ways to support the initiative and learn about how they engage with the racing community.
Plan your stay around Bowen and the Whitsundays
Getting to Bowen
The easiest way to get to Bowen is to fly into Proserpine Airport, also known as Whitsunday Coast Airport. From there, it's a one-hour drive to Bowen. You can easily hire a car at the airport, which is the best way to get around the more rural towns of the Whitsundays region.
Things to do in Bowen
During your free time outside of the Don River Dash events, you can explore the charming Queensland town of Bowen! With stunning beaches, fun coastal walks, and a captivating town centre, there are plenty of things to do. Don't miss a movie at the historic Twin Cinema, a swim at Horseshoe Bay, or a photo with the iconic Big Mango!
Things to do in the Whitsundays
Before or after the Don River Dash in Bowen, it's definitely worth stopping in Airlie Beach for a stay in the heart of the Whitsundays. From Airlie Beach, you can book tours to Whitehaven Beach, Hamilton Island, and the Outer Great Barrier Reef. For the ultimate experience, try an overnight sailing tour or even a package that includes all the best parts of the Whitsundays.
From scenic flights, to snorkelling and scuba diving, to island hopping and just soaking in the stunning views, the Whitsundays are one of the most beautiful places in the world. Definitely take the time to explore while you're near Bowen, it's so worth it!
