Race 2 Rescue 2021 at Kinchant Dam: A death-defying adrenaline chase

Watch as Queensland racers took to Kinchant Dam for a jam-packed weekend of max horsepower, speed and raising money for lifesaving rescue missions. Find out what’s coming next.

The deafening thunder of high-powered machines roared across the dam as people propelled themselves at death-defying speeds.

Mackay Power Boat Club president Brad Nelson said the lane, ski and powerboat racing at Kinchant Dam lured about 30 competitors from Cairns to the Gold Coast and every stop in-between for one reason.

“It’s called adrenaline,” Mr Nelson said.

The Supernova team competing at Race 2 Rescue at Kinchant Dam west of Mackay, an event of pure adrenaline and death-defying speeds. Picture: Lillian Watkins

The inaugural Race 2 Rescue event raising funds for Mackay CQ Rescue was no ordinary day on the water.

It was supercharged with boats capable of travelling up to speeds about 200kmh.

“If it was easy, everybody would be doing it,” Mr Nelson said.

“It’s the speed that makes it exciting.”

Ramble On Racing Team father and son duo Warren Walker (right) and Rob Walker at the inaugural Race 2 Rescue at Kinchant Dam raising money for RACQ CQ Rescue. Rob also shaved off his mullet, raising an extra $6500. Picture: Heidi Petith

Father and son competitors Warren and Rob Walker were relative newcomers to the high-speed sport but were already smitten.

Warren said he raced up to 144kmh and was looking forward to introducing Rob’s two sons to the sport.

“It’s a family thing, it’s just good fun,” he said.

Supernova team members Nathan Nunga and Ben Clark just before hitting the water at speeds clocking 160kmh at the inaugural Race 2 Rescue at Kinchant Dam. Picture: Heidi Petith

Supernova skier Ben Clark said Kinchant — about 35km west of Mackay — was an ideal racing track.

“It’s the best racing in Queensland,” Mr Clark said.

Seasoned competitor Bevan Garioch at the inaugural Race 2 Rescue at Kinchant Dam. Picture: Heidi Petith

With 30 years of experience under his belt, Bevan Garioch explained the sport was built on trust, clear hand signals and steadfast muscles.

“It’s very taxing,” Mr Garioch said.

“Your legs need to be strong.”

Charmaine Dreger, Darren Hill and Tobby Horman watching the sporting prowess on Kinchant Dam for Race 2 Rescue. Picture: Lillian Watkins

Mr Nelson said the fundraising loot was still being counted but he was looking forward to bringing the event back “bigger and better” in 2022.

“I would like to build it into one of the premier racing events in Australia,” he said.

Kylee O'Riely and Josie Zahra at the inaugural Race 2 Rescue. Picture: Lillian Watkins