The Ironman Australia Triathlon at Port Macquarie

The Ironman Australia Triathlo

The fittest athletes in Australia will gather at Port Macquarie on Sunday 6 May when they battle it out at the 2012 Urban Hotel Group Ironman Australia Triathlon. The strength and will power of 1,550 competitors is put to the test for the coveted title.

The race starts at 6am from Westport Park in Port Macquarie’s CBD, NSW Australia where entrants take part in a 3.8km swim along the picturesque Hastings River, followed by a 180km ride and 42.2km run from the CBD following the Town Green foreshore and past pretty coastal beaches.

With thousands of athletes and their friends and family arriving into town, Greater Port Macquarie Tourism is encouraging visitors to get out and explore the region’s assets. The vibrant town centre is brimming with cafes, restaurants, shops, historical buildings and live performances at the cultural hub, The Glasshouse. Outside the CBD, there are 17 golden sandy beaches, lush hinterland, rainforest and waterfall nature walks – an ideal playground and the perfect place to unwind before or after the race.

The Ironman Australia Triathlon

“Port Macquarie offers one of the most stunning and exciting Ironman courses in the world, with the CBD, riverfront, and beautiful beaches all playing a part in the stage.” said Linda Hall, Tourism and Events Manager at Port Macquarie Tourism. “As a town of passionate, sports-loving people, the event has become a stead-fast highlight in the Port Macquarie calendar. The CBD is transformed into a cheering line from sunrise to sunset as competitors cross the finishing line, and the region is charged with excitement and enthusiasm.”

Tourist Attractions in Port Macquarie

Sea Acres Rainforest Centre

Sea Acres Rainforest Centre - the region’s iconic nature attraction has completed a huge facelift to include a new gift shop, administration area with extended restaurant and renewed rainforest experience along the 1.3km subtropical rainforest elevated walkway. Join a regular tour and discover how Aboriginal people used rainforest plants and the coastal environment through story, music and dance

A nature walk and bird watching in the CBD - a 3km walk along boardwalks in Kooloonbung Creek Nature Park covers 52 hectares of natural bushland, wetlands and mangroves in the heart of town and is home to 165 species of birds and wildlife. Or for beach views and a picnic spot take the 9km Coastal Walk to Lighthouse Beach

Eco History Cruising - enjoy the beautiful Hastings River by boat with Port Venture and learn about the area’s early history and unique natural environment

Bago Maze

Bago Maze - garden-lovers can get lost at Bago Vineyards which is opening the largest hedge maze in NSW in October 2012. See its growing construction now with 2000 metres of pathways at this beautiful hinterland winery located just 10minutes from Wauchope

The Koala Hospital - is the only wildlife hospital solely dedicated to the care, protection and conservation of wild koalas. Entry is free and there is a daily ‘Walk and Talk Tour’ every afternoon at 3pm

Amber Healing Farm - learn how food plays an essential part in a healthy life at this new Farm, a tranquil retreat with cooking classes, morning and afternoon teas, ‘health in a bag’ nutritious, organic food packs and healing sessions

Rock Pools and Walking Trails at Wilson River Reserve in the Willi Willi National Park is a perfect spot for the family with lovely picnic areas and a short ‘Waterfall Walk’ past a magnificent strangler fig to the Falls. Enjoy a swim in the rock pools below.

Boorganna Nature Reserve Located near Comboyne this is one of the oldest nature reserves in the state. Enjoy the walking trail to Rawson Falls Lookout and discover five types of forest along the way.

Boorganna Nature Reserve

For more information contact the Greater Port Macquarie Visitor Information Centre on 1300 303 155 or go online to www.portmacquarieinfo.com.au

For more information on the 2012 Urban Hotel Group Ironman Australia Triathlon go to http://www.ironmanaustralia.com