Hamilton Island cancels Whitehaven Beach Day

by Susan Boyd on 10 Nov 2008

2008 Hamilton Island Race Week - Day 6 Revellers are seen during festivities on Whitehaven Beach. Jack Atley http://www.jackatley.com

Audi Hamilton Island Race Week event organisers have decided to take a different approach to next year’s social activities and have cancelled Whitehaven Beach Day.
Hamilton Island CEO Glenn Bourke said Hamilton Island is moving in a new direction and Whitehaven Beach Day is no longer relevant to the crews that attend the high calibre sailing event.

'Numerous modifications were made to Whitehaven Beach Day over the years but Race Week has out grown this social event,' he said.

'Audi Hamilton Island Race Week 2009 will focus on the opening of Hamilton Island’s two new world-class facilities – the Hamilton Island Yacht Club and Hamilton Island Golf Course.

'The beach party has been a wonderful celebration during the 25 years that it has been run by Hamilton Island. It has, however, simply run its course.'

Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Regional Manager Damien Head said the EPA supported Hamilton Island’s decision to cease the annual event.

'Hamilton Island has done an excellent job over the years in working with the EPA to limit the potentially significant impact on the natural and cultural values of this iconic World Heritage destination,' he said.

'The decision to cease this event will have longer term conservation benefits for the Whitehaven Beach.'

Audi Hamilton Island Race Week 2009 will be held on 22 – 29 August.
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