Plan your ultimate weekend at the Straddie Salute Triathlon Festival
Published on 19 October 2026
Plan your ultimate weekend at the Straddie Salute Triathlon Festival
Looking for a sporting event that doubles as an island escape? The Straddie Salute Triathlon Festival on North Stradbroke Island (Minjerribah) combines challenging racing, stunning coastal scenery and the relaxed atmosphere of island life.
Held annually in May as part of Redlands Coast AdventureFest, the event features off-road and on-road triathlons, trail runs, ocean swims and junior events, attracting athletes and spectators from across Australia.
Friday: Arrive and settle into island life
Travel from Brisbane to Toondah Harbour, Cleveland, then take a passenger ferry (20 mins) or vehicle barge (50mins) to Dunwich North Stradbroke Island. From there, Point Lookout is an easy 20-minute drive or bus trip on sealed roads.
Most visitors stay in Point Lookout, the heart of the festival precinct. Book your accommodation and vehicle barges early, as festival weekend is popular.
Spend the afternoon exploring local beaches, cafés and lookouts before settling in for an action-packed weekend.
Saturday: Race day at the Straddie Salute
The competitor experience
The appeal of the Straddie Salute lies in its unique combination of challenging terrain and extraordinary scenery. Athletes can choose from a range of events and tackle courses that incorporate ocean swimming, cycling and trail running through some of the island's most iconic landscapes.
Straddie Salute
Swim 750m | Cycle 15km | Run 8km
Straddie Pure
Swim 750m | Cycle 25km | Run 8km
StraddieKidz Discover
Swim 100m | Cycle 2km | Run 500m
Run 500m | Cycle 2km | Run 250m
Swim 100m | Run 500m
Adventure Run
10km | 5km
Ocean Swim (on Sunday)
1000m | 500m
The magnificent Gorge Walk
The highlight of the run course is undoubtedly the Gorge Walk, one of Queensland's most spectacular coastal walks. As competitors wind their way along the elevated boardwalk, they are treated to breathtaking views. The boardwalk hugs the coastline, providing uninterrupted panoramic views that help distract athletes from tired legs.
The spectator experience
For spectators, the Straddie Salute is equally rewarding. Unlike many triathlons where the action is spread across large distances, Straddie offers numerous vantage points where supporters can cheer on participants throughout the race.
Spectators can:
- Cheer cyclists along key sections of the course.
- Follow runners around Point Lookout.
- Enjoy spectacular coastal lookouts between race viewing locations.
- Relax at nearby cafés and beaches.
- Sit on the beach and watch swimmers enter and exit the ocean.
Sunday: Explore the island
Take the opportunity to discover why North Stradbroke Island, the world’s second largest sand island, is one of South East Queensland's most beloved destinations.
Swim at Cylinder Beach
Frequently ranked among Queensland's best beaches, Cylinder Beach is ideal for swimming, surfing and relaxing.
Explore the Minjerribah Panorama Coastal Walk
Take in the amazing ocean views and enjoy a leisurely walk along the Minjerribah Panorama Coastal Walk and finish at the spectacular Gorge Walk at Point Lookout.
Wildlife watching
The island is renowned for its abundant wildlife, including: koalas, kangaroos, echidnas, dolphins, turtles, manta rays and vibrant array of birdlife.
Enjoy local food and cafés
Point Lookout's cafés and restaurants are perfect for a post-race breakfast or celebratory lunch, with many offering stunning ocean views.
Play a social game of lawn bowls or golf
The Point Lookout Bowls Club is conveniently located across the road from the Straddie Salute event hub and the North Stradbroke Island Golf Club, is a ten-minute drive from Dunwich and offers scenic views of Brisbane, Moreton Bay and the Glasshouse Mountains.
Why the Straddie Salute should be on your bucket list
The Straddie Salute Triathlon Festival is much more than a race. It is a complete island escape that combines athletic achievement, remarkable natural beauty and a welcoming community atmosphere. Whether you're chasing a personal best, tackling your first triathlon, supporting friends and family, or simply looking for an unforgettable weekend away, North Stradbroke Island delivers a truly unique experience.
From the crystal-clear swim, through scenic cycling routes, to the unforgettable run across the Gorge Walk, every moment showcases the very best of North Stradbroke Island, leaving competitors and spectators already planning their return for the following year.