World-class events on Straddie in October

North Stradbroke Island is set to come alive in October, with three world-class events offering unforgettable experiences for sporting and music fans.

People come from all of Australia, and overseas, to be a part of the excitement, but for Redland residents it's right next door – just a quick trip across the bay.

First up is the Straddie Salute Multisport Festival on October 8 and 9, followed by the Straddie Assault Teams Surfing Competition on October 15 and 16, and then the Island Vibe Festival on October 28 to 30.

In just three years, the Straddie Salute Multisport Festival has become a must-do weekend on Queensland's sporting calendar. Participants can swim the crystal clear waters in the Sibelco Straddie 1000 Ocean Swim, jog along one of Queensland's most beautiful coastal trails in the Columbia 8km Adventure Run/Walk, or take up the ultimate challenge in the Straddie Salute Offroad Triathlon (which includes an 18 km mountain bike ride).

The Stradbroke Ferries Straddie Assault is a must for surfing fans, and this two-day event is Australia's longest running teams surfing competition. Now in its 28th consecutive year, it brings together 16 of Australia's premier clubs based between Noosa and Lennox Heads. It's a chance to see hot up-and-coming surfing talent, with the likes of Bede Durbidge, Mick Fanning, Joel Parkinson and Danny Wills (all currently competing on the World Championship Tour), having cut their teeth in the Assault.

The Island Vibe Festival, a celebration of roots and reggae music, is also now a staple on the Queensland music festival calendar. Over three days, more than 40 musical, dance and cultural acts from across Australia and the Pacific region share four stages at Point Lookout, overlooking stunning Home Beach. The event also showcases island culture with art exhibitions, interactive workshops, stalls, circus performances, eco-food and craft markets.

David Thomson, Chairman of the Straddie Chamber of Commerce - the Local Tourism Organisation (LTO) for the island - encouraged locals from other parts of the Redlands to take advantage of being so close to world-class sporting and music events.

"If you've never been to the Salute, Assault or Island Vibe Festival, you don't know what you're missing. Whether it's the excitement of the sporting events, or the music and atmosphere of the festival, it's really worth the short trip over the bay."

The October events provide a great excuse for a weekend away. While on North Straddie, you can surf, swim, snorkel or sandboard, or take a 4WD adventure along the beach. Or, you could just kick back, relax, and enjoy one of the most beautiful locations in Australia.

For more information, phone Redlands Visitor Information Centre on 1300 667 383 or visit the LTO's new official website for North Stradbroke Island at www.stradbrokeisland.com

(pH creative provides PR support to Redland City Council's Tourism Unit.)