About Hamilton Island Race Week Race Week was conceived by David Hutchen in 1983, after he had moved to the Whitsundays with his yacht “Banjo Paterson” to start a yacht charter business. David was able to convince the then owner and founder of Hamilton Island, Keith Williams, to agree to hosting the event as a way of generating tourism and favourable media attention to the resort. After eight years of having Race Week in April, it was moved to August in 1992 to take advantage of more consistent and attractive weather conditions. The change in timing has seen the event grow significantly over the years becoming Australia's largest offshore yachting regatta. Event history Event history Hamilton Island Race Week was founded in 1983, and has been growing in popularity every year. Read more Hamilton Island Yacht Club Hamilton Island Yacht Club The Yacht Club and Marina are the home of the regatta during this exciting week - perfect spots for watching the events, and coming together with other racegoers. Read more Hamilton Island Race Week Event Guide Hamilton Island Race Week Event Guide Hamilton Island Race week is an exciting week filled with both on-shore and race-based events - ranging from food markets, cocktail parties and even yoga. Find out more Hamilton Island Guide Hamilton Island Guide While Race Week includes a whole range of exciting events and fixtures, there’s also an abundance of exciting and relaxing activities to choose from on Hamilton Island. Read more Hamilton Island Race Week Sponsors Hamilton Island Race Week Sponsors Hamilton Island Yacht Club is extremely grateful to our corporate partners for their invaluable support of the Hamilton Island Race Week. Read more Frequently asked questions Frequently asked questions Got a question about Hamilton Island Race Week? Take a look at these answers to all questions our race goers typically ask. Read more Merchandise Merchandise You don’t just want to win. You want to win in style. So make sure you have a stylish crew on board, with personalised Polos and Caps from Henri Lloyd. Read more