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More than 40 aircraft are scheduled to take part in the 2025 Outback Air Race, a 3,800-kilometre time trial across Australia aimed at raising funds for the Royal Flying Doctor Service (RFDS).
The event will begin on 22 August in Uluru, Northern Territory, and conclude on 8 September in Carnarvon, Western Australia.
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Held every two years since its inception in 1996, the event has raised over $4 million for the RFDS. Organisers have set a fundraising goal of $750,000 for this year’s edition, matching the total raised during the 2022 race.
Rather than focusing on speed, the Outback Air Race is structured as a time trial, with pilots judged on navigation and timing. Participants come from across Australia, New Zealand, and other countries, and travel through ten scheduled stopovers during the 15-day event.
“The overwhelming demand highlights the race’s increasing profile and solidifies its place in the aviation community,” says race manager Stuart Payne
“This growth demonstrates the Outback Air Race’s broad appeal and offers sponsors the chance to reach a wide, engaged audience, while supporting a cause that truly matters to Australians.”
The 2025 race will also include a partnership with Greenfleet, a not-for-profit organisation involved in environmental initiatives. Organisers say the collaboration is intended to offset the carbon emissions of the event through tree planting and other measures.
Participants in the race include families and individuals with personal ties to the RFDS. Allan and Jo Sattler, racing as Team Atom, are flying in memory of their late son and are joined this year by their other son, Henry. Paul and Natasha McMartin, along with their three children, are also among the entrants.
Returning competitors include 2022 winners Ian and Connie Warburton, with Ian also taking on the role of Race Flight and Safety Director this year. Other entries include teams from New Zealand, including past winner Rob Mackley, who will be flying a Bird Dog aircraft.
Event organisers are continuing to seek sponsorship to support the RFDS and have invited interested parties to visit the event website for more information.
More details about the event can be found at www.outbackairrace.com.au.
