General News
1 August, 2025
Feathers will fly in skies
AN army of feathered athletes will take to the skies tomorrow (Saturday August 2) as the much-loved ‘Great Blue Pigeon Race’ returns to Far North Queensland for its fifth consecutive year.
The quirky, feel-good fundraiser involves 35 homing pigeons released from Innisfail, racing their way back to Cairns, all in the name of raising awareness and funds for Moyamoya Disease, a rare and life-altering cerebrovascular condition.
With a $200 cash prize up for grabs for the supporter of the winning pigeon, locals are encouraged to get behind the cause by “backing a bird” for just $20 per entry.
Each pigeon is assigned to a participant and the first bird to make it back to its home loft determines the winner.
“We started this event to raise awareness in a way that was light-hearted and inclusive,” Moyamoya Australia founder Nicola Baker said.
“It’s become a beautiful symbol of hope and resilience, and it’s such a fun day for the whole community,” she said.
“Every dollar raised through this event helps us reach more families, provide better support, and advocate for the kind of research that could one day save lives.”
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