ZACH MACH Adventure Challenge Launches Exciting New Era in Finch Hatton
MACKAY, QLD — One of the Mackay region’s most iconic outdoor events is back — and with a bold new chapter. The ZACH MACH Adventure Challenge, now in its 13th year, is set to launch an all-new course on 26–27 April 2025, bringing together athletes, families and nature-lovers in a unique race that can only happen once a year.
Held over two days in the heart of the Pioneer Valley, ZACH MACH is more than just an adventure race — it’s a celebration of Mackay’s natural assets and community spirit. Featuring trail running, mountain biking, paddling and road cycling, the event challenges competitors to race through breathtaking terrain — including areas of private property not otherwise open to the public.
“This is a race that simply couldn't happen anywhere else,” says Nikki Giles, ZACH MACH Event Director. “The natural formations of the region — rivers, cane fields, forests, ridgelines — make it a true playground for people who love to compete in nature.”
This year’s event sees a major course update after 12 years based at Pinnacle. Event HQ has now moved to Finch Hatton RSL, showcasing a different part of the valley and giving organisers the chance to highlight local businesses, while working closely with landowners to offer competitors exclusive access to rarely-seen tracks and trails.
“This is what makes ZACH MACH so special,” Nikki adds. “With the generous support of local property owners, we’re able to craft a course that can’t be replicated. It’s only possible once a year, and that’s what keeps athletes coming back.”
The mountain bike stage is a major highlight for 2025, with the course now connecting directly into four of the world-class Finch Hatton MTB trails — a first for the event. With trail networks that rival some of the best in Australia, Finch Hatton is fast becoming a must-ride destination, and ZACH MACH is leading the charge in putting it on the national map.
Mackay Regional Council Mayor Greg Williamson says the event is an important part of the region’s identity and a welcome opportunity for community connection and tourism.
“ZACH MACH is the kind of event that puts Mackay on the map,” said Mayor Williamson.
“It brings people here to experience what we know and love — our incredible landscapes, our outdoor lifestyle and our tight-knit communities. It’s tremendous that the course also includes part of the Finch Hatton MTB trails this year. The inclusion will help us further highlight this amazing facility. Events like this inject a valuable boost into the local economy and offer real experiences that are unique to our region.”
In keeping with the new location, the ANZAC Day After Party will be held on Saturday, 27 April from 6pm at Finch Hatton RSL, giving competitors and locals the chance to come together in remembrance and celebration, with live music, food trucks, and a community vibe.
On Saturday, Pinnacle State School will be running a fundraiser BBQ for athletes and spectators as they cross the finish line — another reminder of the strong community roots that underpin ZACH MACH.
Also returning is the MINI MACH Adventure Challenge, a bite-sized version of the main event designed especially for families and juniors. Held on Sunday, 27 April, MINI MACH includes a short MTB course, orienteering and fun games designed by Pinnacle State School. With over $1,000 worth of prizes and prize money, including a GIANT MTB and gear vouchers, there’s more reason than ever to give it a go.
The ZACH MACH team invites everyone to be a part of the weekend — whether as a competitor, volunteer or spectator.
For more information about ZACH MACH Adventure Challenge and MINI MACH Adventure Challenge visit https://www.tri-activ8.com.au/zach-mach-adventure-challenge
MEDIA ENQUIRIES: Selena Corness | info@tri-activ8.com.au | 0466 590 151
About
Established in 2013, ZACH MACH is the Mackay Region's only adventure multi-sport challenge. The challenge includes MTB, kayak, road cycle, trail run and orienteering. The event runs in 2 parts across an entire weekend: ZACH MACH on 26 April and MINI MACH (a short-distance enticer version of ZACH MACH) on 27 April.
ZACH MACH was established to celebrate the life of Zach Roberts, an outstanding young Mackay man who embraced adventure and people and who tragically passed away in a traffic accident at the age of 18.
ZACH MACH promotes health, social well-being and outdoor adventure. The event attracts adventure enthusiasts and athletes from across Australia and connects local sporting clubs, families, friends, colleagues and individual adventure seekers from the Mackay and Isaac Region to the Pioneer Valley every year.