Countdown begins to the 78th Gladstone Ports Corporation Brisbane to Gladstone Yacht Race 2026
by Kerrin Schallmeiner 18 Oct 07:00 UTC
3 April 2026
Gladstone Ports Corporation Brisbane to Gladstone Yacht Race © Nigel Owen
Launch event celebrates the race's proud legacy and future.
The countdown to the 78th Gladstone Ports Corporation Brisbane to Gladstone Yacht Race (B2G) is officially under way following a special launch event held at the Queensland Cruising Yacht Club (QCYC) in Shorncliffe on Saturday, 18 October 2025.
The event brought together dignitaries, past entrants, sponsors and sailing enthusiasts to celebrate one of Australia's most iconic offshore races and mark the lead-up to the 2026 race, which sets sail on Good Friday, 3 April 2026.
Attendees heard from The Hon. Tim Mander MP, Minister for Sport and Racing and Minister for the Olympic and Paralympic Games, and representatives from Gladstone Ports Corporation, the race's longstanding naming rights sponsor.
QCYC Commodore David Hamilton said the launch represented more than the beginning of the next race cycle. It was an opportunity to honour the legacy of a Queensland tradition that began in 1949.
"The Gladstone Ports Corporation Brisbane to Gladstone Yacht Race is a true test of endurance and seamanship, but it's also about community, camaraderie and a shared love of sailing," Commodore Hamilton said. "The launch event brought together those who have helped shape the race's history, and those who will carry it forward."
As part of the launch, QCYC unveiled the B2G Time Capsule, inviting past entrants and race supporters to contribute a legacy item and written reflection of their B2G experiences. The capsule will remain open until the conclusion of the 80th race in 2028 and will be opened again at the 100th race in 2048.
"The Time Capsule is our way of preserving the stories, achievements and spirit of the people who make the race what it is," Commodore Hamilton said. "It's about celebrating where we've come from, and inspiring future generations of sailors."
The event concluded with the official raising of the B2G 2026 flag, signalling that entries for the 78th race are now open.
Hosted by the Queensland Cruising Yacht Club since 1949, the Brisbane to Gladstone Yacht Race remains one of Australia's premier blue-water events, streamed globally and watched by thousands each Easter.
For more information or to enter the 2026 race, visit www.brisbanetogladstone.com