🌲 2027 TRAIL RUN SERIES • EVENT 02

A graphic design featuring the name 'Zach Mach' with a Superman 'S' emblem, surrounded by kitchen spatulas, and the phrase 'Embrace the Challenge!'

ZACH MACH
RIVER RUN

🗓️ Sat, 8 May 2027

⏱️ Starts 10:30 AM AEST

Prepare to get off the beaten track, off-road and on uneven ground alongside the ZACH MACH Adventure Challenge racers. This course is guaranteed to get you panting as you cross rivers, run along cane paddocks and through rainforest canopy. 

📍 Finch Hatton RSL, QLD

Countdown to Race Start 8 May 2027 • 10:30 AM Start
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About ZACH MACH River Run

Experience the stunning riverside tracks, working farmland trails, and undulating Pioneer Valley terrain of the ZACH MACH River Run. Named in honour of Zach Roberts, this trail run celebrates endurance, camaraderie, and adventure along the scenic banks of the Pioneer River.

With flowing single track, punchy gravel climbs, and fast flat riverside sections, the course offers distances suited for beginners, cross-country specialists, and endurance trail runners looking to challenge themselves.

About the Distances

5km River Sprint ▼

A fast and fun trail run following scenic riverside paths and fire roads. Ideal for beginners, junior athletes, and runners wanting a high-energy dash along the Pioneer River.

12km Rainforest and Creek Run ▼

The Intermediate challenge! Winding through working farm tracks, rolling river flats, and short punchy climbs, this 12km circuit provides a fantastic balance of speed and terrain to test your pacing and endurance.

Competitor Information

Event Schedule ▼
  • Race Check-in: 9.30am
  • Race Briefing: 10.15am
  • Race Start: 10.30am

The race start is self-seeded and we advise faster runners to position themselves at the front and slower runners at the back to ensure smooth trail flow.

Parking ▼
  • Parking will be directed on the day. Please follow all directions from marshals upon arrival.
  • Please park conscientiously to ensure emergency vehicles and local traffic maintain clear access.
Facilities ▼

Toilets are available at the start/finish precinct.

Mandatory Gear ▼

Mandatory gear must be carried for the duration of the run. Event officials reserve the right to refuse entry to any participant who does not comply with mandatory gear requirements.

We have marshals stationed on course and safety personnel with first aid supplies.

  • 1 x compression / snake bandage
  • A fully charged mobile phone (download the free EMERGENCY+ app prior to event day)
  • Whistle
  • Race Bib (pinned to the front of your torso)
  • Hydration bottle or vest with sufficient fluids
Water & Nutrition ▼
  • Bring sufficient water and nutrition for the entire duration of your run.
  • Each competitor is responsible for their own fuelling and hydration needs.
  • On-course aid stations will be limited due to trail logistics.
Finish Line Refreshments ▼

Water and fruit will be available at the finish line for all competitors.

We encourage athletes and supporters to visit and support the local businesses across Finch Hatton and the Pioneer Valley after the race.

Safety ▼

The course includes varied trail surfaces, loose gravel, and uneven tracks. Exercise caution on descent and technical trail sections.

If you DO NOT FINISH the race you must report to an event official prior to leaving. If you do not report to an official and an emergency search is initiated, this will be at the competitor's cost.

Categories & Awards ▼

Top 3 Male & Female finishers for each distance will be awarded on the day.

Presentations ▼

Podium presentations will be held shortly after the top 3 runners in each respective distance cross the finish line.

Cancellation Policy ▼

If you are unable to attend the event, you have the following options:

  • Registrations are non-transferable 14 days prior to the event;
  • Transfers & Changes: Allowed up to 14 days prior to the event with a $20.00 administration fee;
  • Refunds are not available for this event.
  • All notifications should be sent in writing to info@tri-activ8.com.au.
  • We reserve the right to modify the course without notice, as well as reschedule or cancel the event in consultation with emergency services, government agencies, and event stakeholders.
  • If the event must be rescheduled, all entries will automatically carry over to the new date. In the rare event that the event is cancelled and cannot be rescheduled, registered participants will receive a credit for a future event, valid for 12 months. Please note that refunds will not be available in this situation.

Race Rules

Rules ▼

In order for our events to run smoothly and safely, all athletes must adhere to our rules and regulations:

  • No rego, No run! – Please respect our event; we hold permissions from private landowners and government authorities and hold full competitor insurance. Running unregistered puts licences and insurances at risk.
  • Race bib – Retain your race bib for the series. Race bibs must be worn on the front of your body to ensure the electronic timing antenna detects your timing chip. Timing chips cannot be worn on your wrist or tucked in backpacks.
  • No shortcuts – Stick strictly to the marked track for fairness and safety. All courses are marked with signage, arrows, and marshals.
  • Fitness level – Choose the distance suited to your current fitness level. Event officials reserve the right to withdraw competitors if there is concern for their health or well-being.
  • Obey traffic regulations and marshal instructions at all trail/road crossings.
  • Treat fellow competitors, marshals, volunteers, and spectators with courtesy and respect.
  • Dress Code – Appropriate running clothing and suitable trail running shoes are required.
Running Etiquette ▼
  • Leave no trace – take all rubbish and gel wrappers out with you.
  • Keep left and give way courteously to faster runners passing from behind.
  • Respect livestock and native wildlife along farmland and river tracks; do not approach animals.
Disclaimer

*Registration fee prices are dependent on course length. Late fees start 7 days from the scheduled event date. Event photos are free to download for the first 30 days following the event date. After the 30 days, photos can be downloaded for a fee.

^Access to the course is prohibited outside of the event date. The trail run course is held on private property and managed riverside corridors. We have exclusive access once a year to deliver this trail running experience thanks to our local landholders.

OFFICIAL 2027 CALENDAR

5 PIONEER VALLEY EVENTS

Run individual distances or take on all five rounds to compete for the series crown.

Event 01 • Opener Trail Run Series
🗓️ 17 April 2027

Hold It Flats Backyard Ultra

6.7km Hourly Loops Solo or Team Yalboroo QLD

Get ready to chase 24 hours of non-stop action! Runners will tackle 6.7km every hour on the hour, navigating a gradient and terrain that promises to keep things interesting. Go solo or enter a team.

Event 02 Trail Run Series
🗓️ 8 May 2027

ZACH MACH River Run

5km Fun Run 12km River Run Finch Hatton, Qld

Prepare to get off the beaten track, off-road and on uneven ground alongside the ZACH MACH Adventure Challenge racers. This course is guaranteed to get you panting as you cross rivers, run along cane paddocks and through rainforest canopy.

Event 03 Trail Run Series
🗓️ 20 June 2027

Finch Hatton Flowing Trails

6km 12km 18km Finch Hatton Qld

Experience the berms, gentle rollers, and sweeping forest curves of Finch Hatton's famous flowing trail network under the mountain escarpment. This is the only day in 2027 when trail runners take over the MTB park.

Event 04 Trail Run Series
🗓️ 25 July 2027

Eungella Rainforest Run

5km 11km 18km Eungella National Park, Qld

Embrace the thrill of navigating through the secluded corners of Eungella National Park, leaving the familiar behind. For the intrepid souls opting for the 18km Remote Run, an unforgettable journey awaits as you delve into the remote backroads, immersing yourself in the unspoiled beauty of nature while conquering diverse terrains.

Event 05 • Finale Trail Run Series
🗓️ 29 August 2027

Finch Hatton Waterfalls

6km 12km 18km Finch Hatton Gorge, Qld

The grand series finale! Experience the raw beauty of Finch Hatton, an exclusive running adventure through the lush rainforest of Finch Hatton Gorge.