Sunshine Butterflies celebrated its sixth annual triathlon in the Noosa countryside on Thursday 1 May.
This inclusive Tri began in 2020 as a creative response to the cancellation of local sporting events due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Sunshine Butterflies founder and chief executive officer Leanne Walsh said, “We are so proud that we can continue to host this amazing event at ‘Our Backyard’ and even more of the community are getting involved every year.”
“We are so grateful to the June Canavan Foundation for making this day possible again. We couldn’t do this without them,” Leanne said.
What started as a small initiative to bring the community together has since grown into a highlight on the Sunshine Butterflies calendar, eagerly anticipated by members, families, and supporters alike.
Sunshine Butterflies Triathlon is based on the traditional triathlon format, but with a twist.
Participants took part in three inclusive events throughout the day: a running race, a bike ride with wheelchairs, and a water-based relay.
The day was filled with excitement, friendly competition, and beaming smiles from every corner of ‘Our Backyard’.
The event was hosted by Sunshine Butterflies’ very own MC dream team, Pittsy and Liam, who kept the crowd laughing and cheering with their infectious energy.
The local charity was supported by many individuals and groups on the day including: Woolworths Tewantin, Noosaville & Noosa Civic who generously donated food for the day.
Sunshine Butterflies Partners and supporters Team Body Corporate, Ethical Brand co, Sunshine Coast Lightning players The Noosa Tri Club, Good Shepherd Lutheran College and St Andrews Anglican College, Wise Employment 91.1 Hot FM, Channel 10, and a host of volunteers helped to make the event truly special.
The day was described by Sunshine Butterflies staff members as “one of those days that make you proud to be a part of such a special community”.
