Bowen is popular all year round!

Excitement is building at DRD HQ as preparations ramp up for the 2026 Custom Lithium Don River Dash! Now in its 8th year, the event has evolved into one of Australia’s premier off-road racing spectacles — and we’re gearing up to make this year the biggest and best yet.

We’re calling on all competitors, spectators, and sponsors to lock in your accommodation early. If you didn’t rebook on your way out of town last year, now’s the time! With Bowen’s growing popularity and the Don River Dash drawing more visitors every year, accommodation fills fast — especially across the region’s nine caravan parks.

Since its dusty debut in 2019, the Don has more than doubled in size. We’ve welcomed record competitor nominations, added a second spectator area to meet surging demand, and cranked up the excitement with more woops and on-track action.

After a sensational 2025 event, the DRD buzz continues to grow — and 2026 is shaping up to deliver another unmissable weekend of high-speed racing, community spirit, and coastal adventure.

The committee is still keeping a few surprises up its sleeve when it comes to this year’s race and event details — but trust us, it’ll be worth the wait.

Set in Bowen — the Top of the Whitsundays, with its postcard-perfect beaches and unbeatable winter weather, the Don River Dash is a true destination event. From international travellers to grey nomads and seasonal workers, Bowen is buzzing year-round — so be sure to book early and be part of the action this September!

Booking can be secured by heading to our website and clicking the 🄱🄾🄾🄺 🄷🄴🅁🄴 link under the Stay and Play heading. ⁠ Alternatively, the Bowen Tourism website offers great rates on all accommodation in Bowen. To avoid disappointment we urge you to book now.⁠