Get ready for one of Australia’s most scenic multisport events. The Ona Mission Multisport Adventure returns to Mission Beach and Dunk Island in Tropical North Queensland, bringing a spectacular mix of ocean paddling, rainforest running and mountain biking — perfect for individuals and teams alike. New date: Sunday, 12 October 2025.
What is Ona Mission?
Established in 2008, Ona Mission is a community-driven adventure race held across two iconic locations: the palm-fringed sands of Mission Beach and the lush trails of Dunk Island. Expect reef-blue water, World Heritage-listed rainforest, and courses designed to challenge your endurance without losing the fun, festival vibe.
Event Format & Disciplines
Racers take on multiple legs that typically include:
- Ocean paddles to and from picturesque Dunk Island
- Trail runs through the World Heritage rainforest on Dunk and around Fenby’s Gap
- Mountain biking across coastal terrain, rainforest, and beach tracks
- Beach runs along palm‑lined Mission Beach, with views of the Great Barrier Reef
Course formats vary by distance, but the spirit stays the same: an adventure through beaches, islands and rainforest you’ll talk about for years. The official listing highlights a classic flow of Paddle – Run – Paddle – MTB – Run, with options for individuals and teams.
Participants can select from two courses:
Short course (42 km total): 4 km paddle → 6 km trail run → 4 km paddle → 23 km MTB → 4 km beach run
Long course (59 km total): 8 km paddle → 11 km trail run → 4 km paddle → 30 km MTB → 6 km beach run
Racing options include solo entries or relay teams of up to four, in male, female, mixed, and junior categories (13–17 years).
Key Details (At a Glance)
- Date: Sunday, 12 October 2025 (postponed from 14 Sept 2025)
- Location: Mission Beach & Dunk Island, QLD
- Who can enter: Individuals or teams; short and long course options available
- Vibe: Community atmosphere, big scenery, achievable challenge for committed beginners through to seasoned multisport athletes.
For the latest course maps, mandatory gear and registration info, check the Ona Mission 2025 event page
Why Ona Mission Belongs on Your Race Calendar
1) A course you’ll never forget
From the paddle across the Coral Sea to the Dunk Island shoreline, to rainforest climbs and beach sprints at Mission Beach, the contrasts are pure North Queensland magic. It’s not just a race; it’s a postcard with a finish line.
2) Options for every team (and ego)
Whether you’re building a pairs or relay team or racing solo, Ona Mission’s short and long course setups give plenty of ways to play to your strengths. New to multisport? Go short and soak up the vibe. Chasing a PB? Tackle the long course and empty the tank.
3) A community event since 2008
Backed by a passionate local club, Ona Mission has that “everyone’s cheering” atmosphere you only get from community-led events — plus the kind of local knowledge that makes the course both safe and seriously fun.
Race Weekend Guide
Getting there
Fly into Cairns (CNS) and drive ~2 hours south to Mission Beach. Arrive Saturday to collect gear, settle in and scope the start. (Always confirm check-in times and race briefings on the official page.)
Where to stay in Mission Beach
Mission Beach has a mix of beachfront stays, apartments and holiday houses. Book early — long-course weekends sell out fast. Tropical North Queensland’s what’s-on listing is a handy hub while you plan.
What to pack (typical)
- PFD and paddle craft per category
- Trail runners you trust on sand and dirt
- MTB with off-road tyres in good nick
- Hydration, nutrition, sun protection
Check the mandatory equipment list on the official site before you zip up the bag — requirements can change with conditions.
Ona Mission 2025 Course Information
- Paddles: Coastal/ocean sections with island views and the chance of glassy, turquoise water (or a bit of chop — it’s the sea!).
- Runs: Beach stretches and rainforest tracks — think Mt Kootaloo and shaded single-track ambience.
- MTB: Tropical off-road terrain with punchy climbs and rewarding descents.
Expect stunning scenery and a course that rewards pacing and teamwork as much as raw speed.
Training Tips (6–8 Weeks Out)
- Brick it together. Practise paddle→run and run→bike transitions to dial in your legs.
- Sand legs. Add beach strides to condition calves and stabilisers.
- Climb smart. A weekly hill session preps you for rainforest gradients.
- Hydrate early. North Queensland heat demands an aggressive hydration plan.
- Race-day rehearsal. One longer session with your actual kit (PFD, shoes, pack) reduces surprises.
Make a Weekend of It
When you’re not racing, explore Dunk Island walks, coastal cafes and waterfall day-trips inland. Bring the family — spectators can enjoy beach start/finish areas and easy photo ops all day.
How to Enter
Secure your spot via the Ona Mission 2025 event page and follow the updates for course maps, start lists and briefing times. If you saw an earlier date, note that 2025 has been moved to 12 October — plan travel accordingly.
Registration & Fees
- Opening & briefing: 2:30–4:30 pm Saturday (registration and race briefing)
- Entry fees for 2025 have not been released yet, but here are the fees from 2024.
- Short or long course individual: $130
- Team Captain: $360 (team members register free)
- Junior individual: $50; junior team: $140
Logistics
Venues: Mission Beach Outrigger Canoe Club, Casuarina Park, Kennedy Esplanade, South Mission Beach
Nearest major centre: Cairns (approx. 2 hrs north). Ideal for accommodation before and after the event
