19 hours ago
Hamilton Island Race Week: A look back at iconic event celebrating 40 years in 2025
From Prince Frederick of Denmark to boyband popstar Ronan Keating, comedian Magda Szubanski and socialites galore — when it comes to the who's who of the party scene — one Aussie island has seen it all.
Hamilton Island is cemented as one of the country's most popular places to holiday — especially if you have a young family in tow — but for a week each year spanning the past four decades, 'Hammo' transforms into a world of glitz, glamour and of course … a major sailing event.
Hamilton Island Race Week first emerged in the mid-80s, and while the week has since exploded from a modest gathering to drawing some of the world's major heavyweights — this year is tipped to be the biggest event yet.
Think champagne, multi-million-dollar yachts, iconic views and luxurious lunches galore — Hamilton Island CEO Nick Dowling said the winter event has set off over the decades to become one of the most sought after of the year.
'Race Week started in 1984 with a bunch of mates who loved sailing, who knew the secret of the unspoilt Whitsunday islands, who loved the challenge of the southeast trade winds and Great Barrier Reef tides, and who loved the camaraderie of time on the water,' Mr Dowling told
'In those early days, it was all about the racing – and a few post-race beers with your crew and rivals. In 1984, 93 boats turned up for the first series. Race Week has since grown into a real spectacle and, today, we welcome around 200 yachts from across Australia and around the world – from high-performance Grand Prix yachts to family cruisers.'
But while the likes of Olympians and even King Frederik IX of Denmark has taken part in the annual event, Mr Dowling said the events off the water have seen the biggest transformation.
From cocktails and canapes to candlelit dinners extending into the night — guests come for the spectacle both on and offshore.
'Over the years, we have had the privilege of welcoming some of Australia's most celebrated chefs – names like Josh Niland, Kylie Kwong, Danielle Alvarez, Will Cowper, Guillaume Brahimi, Peter Gilmore and Matt Moran – all of whom have elevated the onshore experience and turned Race Week into a proper feast for the senses,' he said.
But while the week may give the impression of glitz and glam, Mr Dowling said the week-long event is the perfect time for anyone to visit — especially those seeking a winter escape.
'What makes Race Week so unique is its accessibility and appeal to everyone – from the superyacht-set to the mums and dads, whether you're racing, spectating or simply soaking up the atmosphere with a glass of wine and a magic Whitsundays view,' he said.
'Sailing remains at the heart of Race Week, but today it's complemented by world-class food and wine, live music and entertainment, and a full social calendar that brings Hamilton Island to life.'
