Message EVENT GUIDEEVENT GUIDE26-27 APRIL 202520252025
WELCOME FROM OUR MAYOR3EVENT SCHEDULE 5OUR LOCATION 7ZACH MACH RACE DAY INFORMATION8MAPS & STAGE INFORMATION 10ZACH MACH GENERAL INFORMATION15CONTENTSMERCHANDISE17VOLUNTEERS19MINI MACH ADVENTURE CHALLENGE21THANKS TO OUR SPONSORS27CANCELLATION POLICY26GEAR CHECKLIST16
Congratulations to the organisers and volunteerswho deliver this event each year. It is one of themajor attractions on our events calendar and justwould not happen without the passion and driveof a small band of people who are dedicated toadventure sport in our region.Zach’s legacy lives on!Have a fantastic time. Mayor Mackay Regional CouncilGreg WilliamsonWELCOME FROM OURMAYORA warm welcome to all participants in the2025 ZACH MACH and MINI MACHchallenge.This fantastic event celebrates the life of ZachRoberts, a young man whose love for adventureracing is celebrated each year when hundreds ofcompetitors gather to tackle 90km of challengingterrain in our stunning Pioneer Valley. It’s great to have our young adventurers back onthe track for the Mini Mach this year. Introducedlast year, the Mini Mach offers people as youngas seven a chance to compete in adventuresports, bringing a whole new generation to thefold.Council is pleased to support this event againthrough our Invest Mackay Events Attractionprogram. It is a program which aims to promotethe best of our region to locals and visitors alike.
EVENT SCHEDULEBIB COLLECTION - (SOLO, TEAMS & PAIRS)23 APRIL - 3.30PM - 5.30PM - Corry Cycles24 APRIL - 3.30PM - 5.30PM - Corry Cycles 25 APRIL - 2.00PM - 5.00PM Race HQ (Finch Hatton RSL)SATURDAY 26 APRIL5.00AM - Kayak Drop - Dam6.00AM - Parking - Finch Hatton RSL - follow signs6.00AM - Sign-in Solo, Pairs & MTB Competitors - Race HQ7.45AM - Event Briefing - Race HQ8.00AM - SOLO, Pairs, Teams & MTB Stage Only Start 8.45AM - Stage 2 - Kayak Only & Team Competitor briefing &sign-in - Dam 9.00AM - Kayak Stage Only Competitor Start10.00AM - Stage 3 - Trail Run Only Sign-In10.15AM - Trail Run briefing - Race HQ 10.30AM - Stage 3 - Trail Run Only Competitor Start 11.30AM - Stage 4 - Road Cycle Only & Team Competitorbriefing & sign-in11.45AM - Stage 4 - Road Cycle Only Competitor Start FRIDAY 25 APRIL - ANZAC DAY2.00PM - 5.00PM - Bib Collection - Race HQ2.00PM - LATE - Camping Set-Up - Finch Hatton RSL 4.00PM - 6.00PM - Early Kayak Drop - Teemburra DamSTAGE CLOSE TIMES11.00AM - Stage 2 - Kayak - CLOSE 12.00PM - Stage 1 - MTB - CLOSE 2.30PM- Stage 3 - Trail Run - CLOSE 4.30PM - Stage 4 - Road Cycle (full Event) FINISHPRESENTATIONS - FINCH HATTON RSL10.00AM - Stage 1A & 1B - MTB Only 11.00AM - Stage 2 - Kayak Only 12.00PM- Stage 3 - Trail Run Run Only2.00PM - Stage 4 - Road Cycle Only4.30PM - SOLO, Pairs & Teams.
outdoors based around Adventure,Community and Health.Brace yourself for the ultimatedirty, muddy, and wet challenge!Conquer nature's obstacles,navigate through mud-soakedtrails, and embrace the thrill offacing the elements head-on. It'snot just a race; it's a choose-your-own-adventure extravaganza! ZACH MACH celebrates the life ofZach Roberts, an outstandingyoung man who embracedadventure and people. He was amuch loved grandson, son, brotherand former student from MackayChristian College who tragicallypassed away in a traffic accident atthe age of 18.Celebrate the life of Zach Robertsand join us for the 2025 ZACH orMini MACH Adventure.ACH MACH is a MultisportEvent for the weekendwarrior to the elite, for ages6 to 107+ in Mackay’s greatZEMBRACE THE CHALLENGE!
The 4 X adventure stages ofZACH MACH AdventureChallenge cover a massive90km of terrain in Mackay’sstunning Pioneer Valley.ZACH MACH HQ is locateddirectly opposite the iconicFinch Hatton MTB Park atFinch Hatton RSL - less than50minutes drive from bothMackay’s CBD and Airport.Participants and theirfamilies/supporters areencouraged to use the facilitieson offer. Bring a swag, tent orturn your vehicle into yourpersonal camper at ZACHMACH HQ. Camping is $20 pernight down by Cattle Creek andcan be secured via yourregistration.Athletes are welcome to bringtheir own food and supplies. Weencourage everyone to supportthe local businesses: CriterionHotel and The Gift Shed & Cafe. Enjoy the after party andcelebrations from the RSL onSaturday with live music andfood vans. LOCATED ACROSS FROMTHE FINCH HATTON MTBTRAILS - ZACH MACH &MINI MACH AREDESTINATION EVENTS.LOCATION: FINCH HATTON RSL
RACE DAY INFORMATION 4REGISTRATION: Before you dive into the excitement of the event, please take a moment to sign in at ourregistration tent. This is where you will receive your essential timing chip, a crucial tool for tracking yourprogress throughout the competition. TIMING CHIP: Your timing chip is your key to accurate timing and tracking during the event. It must besecurely strapped to your left ankle at all times, so make sure it's snug and comfortable before you start.For teams participating in relays, the timing chip doubles as your relay baton during transitions. Ensuresmooth handovers by securely fastening the chip to the left ankle of the incoming team member.For pairs, you will receive one timing chip between the two of you. Coordinate with your partner to decidewho wears the chip during each leg of the event. RACE PLATES: To ensure smooth operations and accurate tracking throughout the event, it's imperativethat your race plates are prominently displayed at all times. These plates serve as identification markers andhelp event organizers and officials keep track of participants.BIKE/S: your race plate should be affixed to the front of your bike/s where it's clearly visible. Make sureit's securely fastened to avoid any disruptions during the race.RUN: your race plate should be displayed on the front of your shirt. KAYAK: your race plate should be displayed on the back of your life vest / PFD. AID STATIONS: Basic aid stations will be set up at the following locations:Teemburra Dam1.Trail Run - turn around at Kowari Road2.However, due to the remote nature of some of these locations, we cannot guarantee the availability ofsupplies. It's strongly advised that you carry sufficient nutrition and hydration to sustain you through eachstage of the race.TRANSITION AREAS: Competitors are allowed to bring eskies (coolers) to transitions to store and top uppersonal hydration and nutrition supplies. This allows you to have access to the specific items you need tofuel your performance throughout the event.TEAM TRANSITIONS: All transitions will be from the nominated transition tents – timing chips must beexchanged under the tent - not at the entry or exit points of any stag.EMERGENCY ASSISTANCE: Stop and give assistance to other competitors if needed. If anothercompetitor falls and injures themselves, it is not an opportunity to pass them. Give assistance and ensurethey are ok. Time considerations will always be given to the ones who stop and assist injured competitors.Do not leave anyone unassisted, send for help.
RACE DAY INFORMATION 4PRESENTATIONS: As a celebration of achievement and recognition of outstanding performance,presentations will be held throughout the day at Race HQ, Finch Hatton RSL. For specific timings ofpresentations, please refer to the race schedule. PRIZE MONEY: There is over $2,500 in prize money up for grabs. Prize money will be awarded to the topthree male and female competitors in each individual stage of the ZACH MACH Adventure Challenge.Competitors who excel in their chosen stage will have the opportunity to be rewarded for their efforts. Prizemoney will be presented at the conclusion of each stage. Overall Solo, Teams, and Pairs will be awarded atthe final Presentation. SPECTATORS: Friends and family are encouraged to join us to support our competitors! However, wekindly ask that spectators avoid entering certain areas reserved for competitors only, such as the finishingchute, Recovery Area, and First Aid area. Thank you for your cooperation in ensuring a smooth and safeexperience for everyone involved!FOOD/DRINKS: Pinnacle State School will be hosting a fundraising BBQ from 11.00am on Saturday 26April with cold drinks also available. The Criterion Hotel and the Gift Shed Cafe also offer a selection ofmeals, drinks and snacks. MERCHANDISE: We have an array of merchandise available including 2018+ Event Shirts, socks, earrings,visors and a handful of 2025 Event Polos! We will have cash and online purchase facilities available at theZACH MACH Event HQ from 2.00pm on Friday 25th April. VOLUNTEERS: We are still looking for a number of volunteers for the MTB, Trail Run and Road Cycle. If youhave a family member or friend who would like to volunteer for a free BBQ! Register your interest HERE BAG DROP: There will be a bag drop area at Race HQ. Please label your bag clearly and avoid bringingitems of value. No responsibility will be taken by our Race Team for items left in the bag drop area. RACE PHOTOS: Our official photographer will be out on the course. Photos will be posted on our Facebookpage as soon as they are available. We will also have a variety of drone & videographers out on course.PARKING: Please follow the signs for car parking at the RSL. Parking at Teemburra Dam will be past theentry point to the dam. Please only drop off kayak and park inside the main car-park avoiding the outsidearea for MTB’s to travel into the transition. All spectators to park past the entry of the dam – we recommendstaying at the dam until all of the MTB’ers have left the dam as the road will be used by MTBs to enter and exit.
ZACH MACH MTB - STAGE 1A - 15KM | STAGE 1B - 22KMSplit into 2 stages: 1A and 1B, the Mountain Bike (MTB) ride will have you traversing between canepaddocks and summiting at Teemburra Dam. Expect, dirt, mud, creek crossings and sweat! Stage 1B willhave you finishing with a lap of the FINCH HATTON MTB park. Up G’Day G’Day, across Salubrious, downNo Drama Cane Farmer and across No Wuckers prior to heading into ZACH MACH HQ.TIMES6.00AM Sign In at Race HQ (Finch Hatton RSL)7.45AM Race Briefing at Race HQ8.00AM Rolling start to Bagley Street - RACE ON! 10.00AM MTB Stage Only Presentations - Finch Hatton RSL 11.30AM Access Closed to FINCH HATTON MTB Park12.00AM MTB Stage Closes MANDATORY GEAR Nutrition & Hydration Covered torsoMobile Phone with Emergency+ App4STAGE 1A & 1B - MTBStarrt/Finish1A - 1B Teemburra DamHelmet - correct fit & meeting Australian StandardsBike with working brakes and in good working orderSpares kit - recommended
ZACH MACH KAYAK - 10KM On top of the world at Teemburra Dam with the ducks paddling beside you and the barramundi swimmingbeneath you, this glorious kayak leg will have you cruising out on pristine still waters.Expect serenity, fresh air, mountain views, water reflections and cheering from Mackay Canoe Club andKayaksnthings support crew.TIMES8.30AM Kayak Stage Only - Sign In - Teemburra Dam 8.45AM Kayak Briefing - Stage Only & Team Competitors9.00AM Kayak Stage Only Start 11.00AM Kayak Presentation - Finch Hatton RSL11.00AM Kayak Stage ClosedMANDATORY GEAR Nutrition & Hydration PFD Life Jacket (Australian Standard)Kayak / Surf Ski / SUP / Canoe (non-motorised) Teams and pairs can use a 2-person option STAGE 2 - KAYAK
4ZACH MACH TRAIL RUN - 10KMThis is a trail run with a little bit of everything for the adventurer. Starting and finishing from ZACH MACH HQ.Expect scenic rainforest, a bit of mud, water, sand and rocks. Prepare to get wet… really wet, the creekcrossings can be deep! Our new Trail Run is privately owned land and crosses 5 local farms. NEW SHORT COURSE - 2025 OFF THE BEATEN TRACK TRAIL SERIES We have introduced a new short course option for 2025. The section of the trail run highlighted in yellowleads the way for the first 5km of the full trail run. TIMES10.00AM Trail Run Sign-In10.15AM Trail Run Briefing - Stage Only & Team Competitors10.30AM Trail Run Stage Only Start 12.00PM Trail Run Only Stage Presentation - Finch Hatton RSL 2.30PM Trail Run Course Closes MANDATORY GEAR - All Runners Nutrition & Hydration Covered torsoSTAGE 3 - TRAIL RUN2 x snake bandagesMobile Phone with Emergency+ App (waterproof bag)
ZACH MACH ROAD CYCLE - 25KMThe road ride takes place on sealed roads starting and finishing at ZACH MACH HQ, the cogs will be glidingand cadence will be surging as you take to these smooth roads. Expect rolling hills amongst historic caneproperties, scenic views, hopefully no head winds (but we can’t control the weather…) and a sweet ride.TIMES11.30AM Road Cycle Sign in and Briefing - Stage Only & Team Competitors11.45AM Road Cycle Stage Only Start 2.00PM Road Bike Stage Only Presentation - Finch Hatton RSL 4.30PM Road Cycle State ClosesMANDATORY GEAR Nutrition & Hydration Covered torsoMobile Phone with Emergency+ AppHelmet - correct fit & meeting Australian StandardsBike with working brakes and in good working orderSpares kit - recommended STAGE 4 - ROAD CYCLE
TRANSITION AREA - FH RSL GROUNDSKAYAK TRANSITION - TEEMBURRA
GENERAL INFORMATION 4RULES & REGULATIONS: In order for the event to run as smoothly as possible we need all participants tocooperate and stick to our rules and regulations, please read through the points below: No Rego – No Race – we do not offer registration on the day. We are on private property and mustensure that anyone entering the property is insured under our Event Sanctioning. Visible race numbers must be displayed at all times throughout the course. Timing chips must be worn atall times. No short-cuts – please stick to the marked track for safety and fairness reasons. All courses are clearlymarked and we have marshals out on course. Fitness level – please manage your health and pace out on course. Our event officials reserve the rightto short course or pull competitors out of the race if they are concerned with well-being. Obey traffic regulations unless otherwise directed by an event marshal. Be respectful to other competitors, volunteers, officials and spectators.Dress code – please wear appropriate clothing, including pants, shirts and suitable shoes. Torso must becovered at all times. No littering out on courseWe ask you NOT to wear headphones, so you can hear other competitors, any vehicles in the area andhear the instructions of volunteers and marshalls. Stop and give assistance to other competitors if needed. If another competitor falls and injuresthemselves, it is not an opportunity to pass them. Give assistance and ensure they are ok. Timeconsiderations will always be given to the ones who stop and assist injured competitors. Do not leaveanyone unassisted, send for help. HYDRATION & NUTRITION: Staying properly hydrated and nourished is vital for peak performance duringthe event. As a competitor, you are responsible for managing your own hydration and nutrition needsthroughout the race. While basic aid stations will be available at certain locations, it's essential to plan aheadand come prepared.PLAN AHEAD: Take the time to plan your hydration and nutrition strategy before the race begins. Considerfactors such as the intensity of each stage, weather conditions, and your individual hydration and nutritionneeds. FACILITIES: Toilets are available at ZACH MACH HQ and at Teemburra Dam. PRIVATE PROPERTY: In an attempt to showcase the beauty of our region, you are very fortunate to haveexclusive access to Private Properties along with Natural Reserve & land managed by SunWater and . Let’scontinue to show our appreciation and respect towards the families that live on and work this land by onlyaccessing during the designated event times. It is also for your safety. CAMPING: Camping can be secured through your registration! Campsite fee is $20 per night at the Finch Hatton RSL Grounds. Showers will be available at the Finch Hatton MTB Park and the Show Grounds.
16KAYAKPFD Life Jacket (Australian Standard)Kayak / Surf Ski / SUP / Canoe (non-motorised) Teams and pairs can use a 2-person option Paddle/oar ROAD CYCLECovered torsoClosed in shoesHelmet - correct fit & meeting Australian StandardsBike with working brakes and in good working orderSpares kit - recommended MTBCovered torsoClosed in shoesHelmet - correct fit & meeting AustralianStandardsBike with working brakes and in good workingorderSpares kit - recommended RACE DAY CHECKLISTTRAIL RUN Covered torsoClosed in shoesALL ATHLETES - MANDATORYWATER & Nutrition 2 x COMPRESSION bandagesMobile Phone with Emergency+ App (waterproof bag)
162025 ZACH MACH POLOZACH MACH SweatshirtZACH MACH HeadskinzMERCHANDISEZACH MACH Sweatshirt - $69.95Womens Sage (limited sizes andquantities remaining)Mens Black (limited sizes and quantitiesremaining)2025 ZACH MACH Polo - $49.95All Solo competitors who registered priorto the order cut off will receive this year’spolo as part of their registration.Women and Men sizing available (limitedsizes and quantities remaining)ZACH MACHHeadskinz - $15.95Onesize fits allThe below merchandise will beavailable for purchase at the event*.*Sizes and stock quantities are limited.
ZACH MACH AFTER PARTY6PM - 26 APRIL 2025 at Finch Hatton RSLThe celebrations will continue long after ZACH MACH finishes. Take amoment to re-group and freshen up and then come and join in theANZAC / ZACH MACH celebrations at Finch Hatton RSL. Enjoy food and live music. Meet the locals, competitors, the ZACHMACH event team and everyone’s friends and families. Make a night of it. Book your campsite / accommodation and stay forthe night ready to compete or spectate at MINI MACH AdventureChallenge the enxt morning at 8am.LIVE MUSIC |FOOD TRUCKS & DRINKSAFTER PARTYFINCH HATTON RSL | FROM 6PM, 26 APRILFINCH HATTON RSL | FROM 6PM, 26 APRIL
Our events thrive on the incredible support of volunteers. Whether you're a seasonedvolunteer or new to the experience, there's a place for you on our team. Frommarshalling on the course to manning aid stations, there's always something exciting todo, and plenty of fun to be had along the way.If you have family and friends coming along to cheer you on invite them to volunteer as well.Roles include marshalling, aid station support, sweep runners, parking marshals, assisting withathlete sign-in, preparing refreshments, and event setup/pack down. With so much involved inmaking the event a success, we rely on our dedicated volunteers to help us run the showsmoothly.If you're interested in being part of the action and volunteering your time register online HERE. Every Volunteer will receive a Volunteer Pack containing course information, ZACH MACHAdventure Challenge Polo (Limited sizes), Voucher for a drink from the Event Hub, Voucher forfood from the Event Hub.VOLUNTEERS
We're thrilled about the newstarting line located at FinchHatton RSL.Prepare to showcase yourbiking skills as you take on anadventure along Cattle Creek! Pinnacle State School is joiningin on the excitement,introducing a new elementevery year! Get ready for aseries of thrilling adventures!Additionally, for the daringadventurers aged 10 andabove, there's a brand-newMEGA MACH feature to add anextra twist to the journey.Participants opting for theMEGA MACH experience willsnag a cool wristband alongwith their timing chip at theregistration desk.MANDATORY Gear – shoes,race number, bike, helmet A helmet must be worn for thecycling stages. This can beplaced with the bike for the runstage.SCHEDULE 6.30am to 7.30am Check-inand collect race bibs, timingchip and nominate for theMEGA MACH7.45am Race briefing at FinchHatton RSL 8.00am Race Start 9.15am Presentations andRandom Draw Prizes - thanksto CORRY CYCLES Prepare for an exhilaratingMINI Adventure! Gatheryour group for the MINIMACH AdventureChallenge on Sunday April27th. Ages 6yrs to be accompaniedby an adult as MINI MACH pair,ages 8+ can ride solo. Embark on a 2KM MTB ride,engage in orienteering, conquerriver crossings, and experiencethe thrilling 2.5KM MTB grandfinale. Brace yourself for anadventure-filled expedition withunexpected twists at everycorner! It's more than just a race; it's amission to awaken your inneradventurer!MINI MACH ADVENTURE CHALLENGE
MINI MACH - TRANSITION AREAREGISTRATION: Before you dive into the excitement of the event, please take a moment to register at ourregistration tent. This is where you'll receive your essential timing chip, a crucial tool for tracking yourprogress throughout the competition. TIMING CHIP: Your timing chip is your key to accurate timing and tracking during the event. It must besecurely strapped to your left ankle at all times, so make sure it's snug and comfortable before you start.For pairs, you will receive one timing chip between the two of you. Coordinate with your partner to decidewho wears the chip during each leg of the event. RACE PLATES: To ensure smooth operations and accurate tracking throughout the event, it's imperativethat your race plates are prominently displayed at all times. These plates serve as identification markers andhelp event organizers and officials keep track of participants.BIKE: your race plate should be affixed to the front of your bike/s where it's clearly visible. Make sure it's securely fastened to avoid any disruptions during the race.RUN: your race plate should be displayed on the front of your shirt.
STARTING POINT: Finch Hatton RSL The Mini Mach begins and ends at the Finch Hatton RSL, whereathletes will gather to kick off their adrenaline-filled journey. Athletes will dive right into the action with anadventure station challenge right at the starting line. From this adventure station, competitors will embark ona run down to Cattle Creek via the Finch Hatton Show Grounds, where the real adventure begins. NAVIGATION CHALLENGE In Cattle Creek, athletes receive their maps and set off to locate severalcheckpoints strategically placed up, down, and across the river. Sharpen your navigation skills and embracethe thrill of the hunt!PINNACLE STATE SCHOOL ADVENTURE STATION Back on solid ground, competitors make their way tothe next adventure station for another exciting challenge that will test your skills and determination!FINISH POINT: RACE HQ With the adventure station conquered, athletes jump back on their bikes and rideback to the Finch Hatton RSL, fuelled by the excitement of the journey to finish strong! MINI MACH - COURSE
PRIZE MONEY: Over $200 in prize money is up for grabs. PRIZES: $1,000 worth of prizes from Corry Cycles are up for grabs.Prizes include a brand new Giant MTB, gift vouchers and cyclinggear. To be in the running for a prize you need to be a registeredMINI MACH participant, be present after the MINI MACH AdventureChallenge and have your race/bib number ready. Race numbers willbe selected at random.MINI MACH - PRIZES TO BE WON!
28 JUN 10 AUGEmbark on an adrenaline-pumping journey into the untamedheart of Mackay's breathtaking State Forests and NationalParks with our brand-new, thrill-packed 5-part adventure! Traverse rugged terrains and lush landscapes as you conquer short,medium, and long distances in each leg of this epic series. Rack up those points and set your sights on victory as you compete tobe crowned the ultimate champions of the "Mid-Short Course" and "Mid-Long Course" in 2025 Are you ready to unleash your inner adventurer and claim your placeamong the fearless few? CLICK TO REGISTER NOW14 MAR 26 APR 5 OCT
We understand that circumstances can change, and while refunds are not available for thisevent, we offer the following options:Transfers: You may transfer your entry to the 2026 ZACH MACH up to 7 days beforethe event for a $15 administration fee.Non-Transferable: Within 7 days of the event, registrations are final and cannot betransferred.To request a transfer, please email info@tri-activ8.com.au.Event Changes & CancellationsFor safety reasons, we may need to adjust the course, reschedule, or cancel the event inconsultation with emergency services, government agencies, and key stakeholders.If the event is rescheduled, all entries will automatically carry over to the new date.If the event is cancelled and cannot be rescheduled, participants will receive a creditto the 2026 ZACH MACH, valid for 12 months.Refunds will not be issued in the event of a cancellation.Thank you for your understanding. We look forward to seeing you on race day!CANCELLATION POLICY
THANK YOU TO OUR 2025 SPONSORS