Hundreds of thrillseekers soar from Castle Hill in record-breaking event
Hundreds of thrillseekers are set to smash participation records by launching themselves off Townsville’s Castle Hill in the city’s biggest zip line event ever. SEE THE PICS
Hundreds of thrillseekers have launched themselves off Townsville’s most iconic landmark for a unique charity event that smashed participation records for its organisers.
Hosted by the Townsville Hike and Explore Group, the hugely popular annual Castle Hill zip line event allowed participants to soar from the hill’s highest lookout down to the next lowest point, flying over a canyon with scenic views of The Strand.
Townsville Hike and Explore Group organiser Michael Pugh said the turnout had been unprecedented.
“This is officially Townsville Hike and Explore’s biggest event in seven years,” Mr Pugh said.
He said this year’s event had already surpassed their previous largest turnout.
“When we add up the walk-ins and the numbers that have already paid, we’re guessing we’ll be somewhere between 550 and 600 by seven o’clock tonight,” he said.
The event saw huge interest when first advertised on social media, with spots filling up quickly.
Crowds gathered to watch the daredevils in action as brave participants took the plunge, including Townsville mayor Nick Dametto.
Mr Pugh said the event attracted a diverse mix of locals and tourists.
“Our youngest participant was seven,” he said.
“A lot of the younger generation were up here today, families and children and visitors.
“It’s really good to see that we’ve marketed this well, and it’s attracted a lot of families and a lot of those that are on holidays at the moment, mainly locals, and the kids have had an absolute blast.”
Mr Pugh said seeing the community embrace the outdoor experience made the effort worthwhile.
“Certainly makes my Christmas a lot better,” he said.
“Finishing the year off with an event like this, where we’ve just been able to include as many of our families and kids in this outdoor experience as we can.”
Participant Melinda Gibson said it was her first time tackling the Castle Hill drop, though she was no stranger to the activity.
“First time in Townsville, but I have ziplined before in Bali,” Ms Gibson said.
Ms Gibson said the experience was “amazing”.
“The first couple of seconds were scary and then just enjoy the view,” she said.
Spectators watched as participants flew across the gap, with Ms Gibson admitting she was waving “like mad” at the end for her friends taking photos.
She said it was a memory she would treasure and was keen to do it again.
Mr Pugh paid tribute to the team behind the scenes who made the day possible.
“I just want to really thank all our volunteers,” he said.
“A couple of hundred volunteer hours have gone into making this event possible, just answering queries, putting the events together.
“The Townsville Hike and Explore team as usual has come together for our community, and it’s been absolutely fantastic.”
The event partnered with several key local organisations this year, including participants from the Cowboys Community Foundation, the Community Information Centre, The Women’s Society and NDIS provider Just Better Care.
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Originally published as Hundreds of thrillseekers soar from Castle Hill in record-breaking event
