If you want to see the unique spectacle of more than 100 jet skis taking to the water, head down to Burnett Heads Boat Ramp at 8am on Monday (25 March).
The Bundaberg Region is the starting point for this year's Autumn Yamaha Jet Trek, which is a Variety fundraiser.
It's promoted nationally as “an adrenaline packed jet ski adventure on water, travelling via some of the most amazing coastline and scenery Australia has to offer”.
Participants have come to Bundaberg from all over Australia and many have stayed up to three or more nights.
That's ensured a busy time for several Bundaberg motels.
Sugar Country Motor Inn manager Geoff Liddell said the well-organised event had been a boon for business.
“We have had mostly a full house at the Sugar Country Motor Inn for the last three nights and our restaurant and conference room have been humming along,” Geoff said.
“We have had over one hundred patrons through the door just this Sunday morning for breakfast and lunch but there were lots of locals as well.
Variety are a ‘great bunch of people'
“We have 33 rooms and there were multiple people in each room, about 50 all up for three nights.
“The organisers have been amazing and run a tight ship; we have had this weekend organised for quite some time.
“Variety are a great bunch of people who support a great cause.
“The Variety Jet Trek has been an excellent boost for Bundaberg and we will welcome them back next time with open arms.”
Participant Lauren Richardson from Sydney said this was her sixth Yamaha Jet Trek for Variety.
“It's something I look forward to every year,” Lauren said.
“We've travelled to some amazing locations across the country over the past few years, and we're thrilled to spend some time in Bundy before heading north over the next few days as we raise money for sick and disadvantaged kids.
“You really cant miss our group with the support cars and trailers that follow along the coast.
“You'll see us all covered in Variety and Yamaha stickers as we stop at local restaurants, cafes, service stations and hotels!”
Craig Brady, who is on his seventh Jet Trek, said: “Most people do this event because it takes you to places we don't normally go to.”
Daniel Simpson, who was on his first event, looked forward to exploring this part of Queensland.
“I've never been to Bundaberg, this is my first time here,” Daniel said after enjoying a visit to Bargara Brewing Company.
Economic boost for Bundaberg Region
Bundaberg Regional Council tourism portfolio spokesman Cr Greg Barnes said it's terrific to see so many visitors.
“It's great the Bundaberg Region was selected as the starting point for this important national event, which raises money for thousands of kids who are sick, disadvantaged or have special needs,” Cr Barnes said.
“With several hundred riders and support crew in town there's been a spin-off economic benefit and Bundaberg has been placed on the national map for social media and event promotion.
“We congratulate the Variety Club and especially this year’s participants and look forward to welcoming them back again next year.”
About 110 jet skis will launch at the Burnett Heads Boat Ramp from 8am Monday in groups of 10, heading on day one to Agnes Water.
The Jet Trek continues over several days to Hamilton Island.
Variety was founded in 1975.
Its mission is to empower Aussie kids who are sick, disadvantaged or have special needs, to live, laugh and learn.
The vision is for all Aussie kids to attain their full potential regardless of ability or background.
