GOONDIWINDI’s Hell of the West Triathlon was named medium-sized Event of the Year at the 2025 AusTriathlon annual awards ceremony, held at the Gold Coast on Saturday night.

The Hell of the West is a community-run endurance event that has become a ‘must-do’ for athletes from across Australia.

Winning the medium-sized Event of the Year, for 500 to 1000 participants, at an event recognising excellence in one of Australia’s most competitive event landscapes – an exceptional achievement given leading corporate organisers dominate the triathlon event scene.

Now in its 35th year, Hell of the West is renowned among athletes for its challenging course, fierce racing spirit, and unmistakable country hospitality.

What truly sets the event apart is the extraordinary commitment from the Goondiwindi community, with more than 300 volunteers stepping up annually to support competitors and deliver a seamless race experience.

The Hell of the West committee is celebrating being named Triathlon Australia medium-sized Event of the Year.

Hell of the West secretary Liesl Richards said the event continues to play a significant role in the regional economy, generating more than half-a-million dollars in economic benefit each year.

“This recognition highlights what grassroots passion, long-standing community involvement, and genuine hospitality can achieve – cementing Hell of the West as one of Australia’s most iconic triathlons,” she said.

The awards opened with an acknowledgement of the strength, passion and unity of the community from AusTriathlon CEO Tim Harradine.

“Each year, the awards remind us that sport is built on more than results – it’s built on people,” Harradine said.

“From grassroots volunteers to world-class athletes and event organisers, every recipient reflects what makes our sport so special.”

Entries are open now for the 2026 Hell of the West in Goondiwindi on March 7-8, 2026.