In its inaugural year last year, the event sky rocketed straight to number one in Australia for the amount of competitors on stand-up-paddleboards in an event. 

Related: See photos and a report from last year's event...click here

Last year’s format of combining three events into one huge weekend has proved a real winner for everyone. 

The Berg Building Forster Island Challenge run/swim on Saturday has seen competitor numbers boosted by the additional people in town for the stand up paddle event on Sunday while the ski paddle events are slowly building. 

Competitor entries to date for the stand up paddle are around 150 including some of the best professional riders in Australia and the world. 

Event organiser Peter Camilleri said it was fantastic to see so many out of town competitors heading into Forster Tuncurry. 

“We structured the event schedule over the two day period so it will encourage visitors and competitors to stay the weekend allowing local businesses to capitalise on increased overnight stays,” Camilleri said.

“While it is great to see such talent participate in the event, for the other 95 per cent of competitors it’s all about fun and fitness. 

“We cater for all levels of athletic ability by offering shorter distances of 2km and a kids’ 200m event. And all can still be in the running to win the random prize draw, a new stand-up-paddleboard valued at $1500.”

On top of the racing events a charity auction will take place on Saturday at 5.15pm at the Lakes and Ocean Hotel.

Camilleri said last year’s auction raised over $1700 for the charity Cystic Fibrosis.

There will be up to 10 professional stand-up-paddleboard riders competing who will attend the auction.

Businesses will enter teams of three and bid for a professional to join the team. 

Stand up paddle boards will be provided for the business teams. 

For more information phone 0404 835 060 or go to: www.forsterislandpaddlefestival.com.au