Date set for Echuca-Moama’s iconic Southern 80 after uncertain future

A date has been set for the world’s biggest ski race after the Echuca-Moama event was postponed because of stretched resources.

The Southern 80 has been postponed. Picture: Yuri Kouzmin

The world’s biggest ski race, delayed because of stretched resources from Covid-19, has been confirmed for May 13-15.

Last week organisers were forced to postpone the Southern 80 which is traditionally held in February on the Murray River in Echuca-Moama.

It was a heartbreaking decision for the border community, given the 2021 event was also scrapped and its million-dollar impact to the economy.

But on Friday afternoon Moama Water Sports president Steve Shipp said he was pleased to lock in the 2022 ski race.

Last week he said it would have been devastating to lose the race for a consecutive year.

“This is a big event for our town and this year’s race is meant to be the base to launch ski racing again,” he said.

“We usually attract between 35-40,000 people each year who inject about $13 million into the local economy. If we were to lose the race again it would be absolutely devastating.

“But given the circumstances around our emergency services it was the right decision to make.

“We’re going to battle on because we want to get back out on the water.”

Shipp said the race had a major impact not just for local businesses but also community groups.

“We have a large number of volunteers who give up their time for the weekend,” he said.

“Whether it’s selling food and drinks or driving the tractors to get the boats out of the water — there is a role to play. The money is then distributed between those groups and it is absolutely critical to them.”

Prior to the postponement, boat numbers were down about 15 per cent compared to the 2020 race but Shipp said that was to be expected.

Entries will now be reopened and organisers will meet with emergency services to plan the event.

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