CPTU RULES
Cairns Port Douglas Trail Ultra (CPTU) RULES
You must complete the marked course on foot under your own power.
All Runners must carry a 1x High Visibility Vest that complies with the CPTU Standards for road crossings. They must wear the High VIs Vest when travelling along the roads on the course including, Speewah Rd, Stoney Creek Rd Speewah Until CP1, Stoney Creek Rd Kamerunga until CP2, Wrights Lookout Rd Kuranda, and CP3 Kuranda, Between CP3-CP4, CP5 and Mitre Street Beach Access walkway.
Performance-enhancing drugs are prohibited in accordance with The World Anti-Doping Code and the QUARTZ Event Program. Refer to the list of prohibited substances and methods under the Australian Sports Anti-Doping Authority.
Any race entrant may be requested to perform a drug test between the time of completing race entry to 15 days after the event. Any testing will be conducted in a manner consistent with the requirements of the World Anti-Doping Code.
Any race entrant currently serving a sanction for violating the World Anti-Doping Code will be disqualified from competing in the event.
Any race entrant that was issued with a sanction in the 5 years prior to the upcoming event date for violating the World Anti-Doping Code will be disqualified from competing in the event.
Trekking poles must be fully collapsible, so they can either fit inside your running pack or be strapped to the outside of your running pack when not in use. Trekking poles must not be held in your hands and must not protrude from your running pack or your body at times when their use is not permitted. Particular care is to be taken with poles around the general public (the Smith Track climb - CPTU-Red Bull Climb leaving CP2 climb).
Your race number must be visible at all times on the outside of your clothing and on the front of your body over your belly or chest. Please wear a Race Belt to attach your bib to if you will be wearing a jacket, base layer over your race singlet so your bib number is visible at all times. Your bib must not be worn on your pants or leg. Do not cover over your race number with any backpack strap or article of clothing such as thermal top, waterproof jacket (including see-through jackets) or high-visibility safety vest.
You must not fold, cut or change your race number in any way. It must be worn as is, unfolded.
If you are wearing headphones/ear buds etc, you must switch off music, podcasts etc at all checkpoints so you can hear directions given to you by event marshals. You must switch off music when travelling on all public roads so you can hear approaching traffic.
Runners are to maintain social distancing guidelines of maintaining a 1.5 meter gap between themselves and others at all times.
If you withdraw from the event, you must sign the withdrawal form at the closest checkpoint (unless assisted from the course by a QAS Medical Team). You must make your own arrangements back to your car or arrange for your support crew to pick you up from that checkpoint.
If you require medical assistance on the course, you must use the phone numbers on your Participant Emergency Instructions Card to contact the Event Safety Team who will arrange to retrieve you. Support crews are not allowed to enter the event course to collect runners.
A High Visibility Safety Vest that complies with CPTU Mandatory gear list examples for day and night time wear must be worn over the top of your torso and backpack at the times and locations as specified in the Competitor Briefing document. Your race number must still be visible at all times on the outside of your high-visibility safety vest.
You must stay on the marked course. Shortcuts are not permitted. If you get lost, return to the last sighted marking. If a shortcut is taken a two-hour time penalty will be added to your time or instant disqualification pending on Race Directors Decision.
You must carry your own Mandatory Gear at all times during the event. Random gear checks will be performed during the event. For the sake of fairness to all runners, a 2 Hour time penalty will apply for every item that is missing. This time penalty will be added to the runners overall time. Runners runner must arrange for the missing item(s) to be replaced and they will not be allowed to continue on course until they have full mandatory gear. For severe breeches of mandatory gear or failure to comply with the requests of event marshals, the runner may be disqualified. The breach will also be listed within the results spreadsheet. Take special note of what to do with your fleece top and waterproof pants.
You must obey directions of checkpoint staff or course marshals and withdraw from the race if you miss any time cut-offs at checkpoints or on course.
At any time our CPTU Medical staff, QAS Ambulance, QPWS, Cairns Port Douglas Trail Ultra volunteers, or CPTU Staff can withdraw any entrant from the event if they are not well enough to finish the event safely without endangering the safety of CPTU Medical staff, Cairns Port Douglas Trail Ultra volunteers, QPWS Staff and CPTU Staff as we are governed by the legislation of the Qparks Conservation Act.
No one is allowed to speak rudely to any of the CPTU Staff or Volunteers, this includes entrants and their support crews. Anyone found speaking rudely to the CPTU Staff or Volunteers will be given a 2 hour time penalty or to the runner who they are supporting. If the rude behaviour continues by either the runner or the runners support crew, the runner will be removed from the course as disqualified.
Littering is prohibited.
You must not leave human faeces on the track. If you need to poo either use a toilet, a wag bag or get a minimum of 15m off the track in safe area and use leave no trace principles.
You must not take dogs into National Parks.
You must not smoke in the National Park.
You must obey any information signs such as track closures, etc.
In training, you must stay out of any out-of-bounds areas as shown on the course maps.
Leave gates as you find them. If closed, you may open a gate to pass through but it is your responsibility to close the gate after you.
All runners must use the hand sanitiser when entering the checkpoints.
The participant is responsible for the actions of their support crew. Support crews must comply with all instructions from event staff and officials. The participant may be penalised or disqualified for actions or breaches of the rules by their support crew.
Support Crews can ONLY offer assistance within 400 meter radius of designated Checkpoints 2, 3 and 5. Runners who accept assistance from support crews outside these areas will be given a 1 hour time penalty.
Support Crews can only enter the support crew area once their runner has entered the checkpoint.
Support crews must obey all road rules and drive within the speed limits. Please ensure that the support crew get sufficient rest and is not tired when driving. Make sure they prepare their own food and water, as they are not allowed to eat the checkpoint food.
Support crews must follow the instructions of all checkpoint staff, road marshals and road traffic controllers.
Support crews must not eat the provided food at checkpoints, food is for competitors only.
Outside assistance is only permitted at Checkpoints 2, 3, and 5 and 7. You must not receive outside assistance at any other points on the course. Assistance from event staff is acceptable. Any support crews found outside of these areas will be given a 2 hour time penalty to their runner.
No Support Crews Driving on Black Mountain Road, this road will be closed for the duration of the event. Support Crews found driving on Black Mountain Road will result in their runner being instantly disqualified.
Spectator points on the course are as follows, Kuranda, Lake Morris, The Bump Track, 4 Mile Beach, and the CPTU Festival Finish Line.
Runners on the course after Check Point 5 The Bump Track may be accompanied by a “registered pacer” or another “registered runner” from Dusk onwards on Saturday until Sunday 10 am.
A “Registered Runner” is another entrant who is racing the CPTU. You can choose to run the last 18 km from The Bump Track CP5 if you do not want to run with a pacer.
Yourself and the “registered runner” must be fit and able to leave the checkpoint and make it to the finish line together. You will be cleared by Checkpoint 5 staff to go onto the finish line.
Pacers are permitted for CPTU80 and CPTU120 entrants ONLY after Check Point 5 The Bump Track
Pacers must carry all the mandatory gear that is required on the course.
No “mule-ing” (someone carrying your gear for you). Any pacer found mule-ing for their runner will result in a 2 hour Time penalty to the runner’s time. The runner must carry all their own water, food, mandatory gear and cannot accept food or water from their pacer.
Pacers are not able to mechanically or physically aid their runner outside of the checkpoints.
Support crews are not allowed to enter the event course to collect runners.
Support crews are limited to one vehicle per participant at Checkpoints 2, 3, and 5.
The event organisers are not responsible for the safety or whereabouts of the support crew.
The event organisers reserve the right to discourage and/or penalise behaviour that is considered unsporting.
Breaking any of the rules may incur a time penalty, disqualification, or pre-race withdrawal. Any such penalties are at the organisers’ discretion and are final.
All runners must read the below safety briefing before they can start the event.
All runners must stay up to date with the latest information from the Cairns Port Douglas Trail Ultra team and either listen to the audio safety briefing or attend the safety briefing the Friday night prior to the Cairns Port Douglas Trail Ultra August 2021.
CAIRNS PORT DOUGLAS TRAIL ULTRA REFUND AND TRANSFER POLICY
Please check out the Refunds and Transfers page for more information- link to the page here
CAIRNS PORT DOUGLAS TRAIL ULTRA CYBER-BULLYING POLICY
The Cairns Port Douglas Trail Ultra Cyber-bullying Policy has been developed under the guidance of the Policy Framework for managing cyber-bullying. These processes are in place to manage unacceptable online conduct.
The potential impact of cyber-bullying on the health of all personnel involved, taking into account responsibilities under the Work Health and Safety Act 2011 (‘the WH&S Act’) are the following:
Security issues raised by cyber-bullying
Arrangements for reporting instances of cyber-bullying
Providing advice and support to personnel who are the target of cyber-bullying
Managing inappropriate conduct by members of the public online, including by:
Monitoring and keeping records of online comments
Evaluating online comments
Responding to online comments
Reducing the risk of cyber-bullying
Legal mechanisms for addressing cyber-bullying
What is cyber-bullying?
Cyber-bullying is any behaviour, using digital technologies, that could reasonably be considered humiliating, intimidating, threatening or demeaning to a person, or group of people, and which creates a risk to health and safety. Examples may include harassment via mobile phone, social media, or e-mail, or setting up an offensive personal website or blog. While cyber-bullying typically involves an accumulation of instances of objectionable behaviour, single instances of online abuse and harassment may constitute cyber-bullying.
Not every adverse comment or complaint using digital technologies is unreasonable or is an instance of cyber-bullying. Clients and other members of the public have a right to express their views or make a complaint online about agencies in the same way as they can in person or in writing. The problem arises when complaints are in the form of inappropriate online behaviour directed at Cairns Port Douglas Trail Ultra personnel.
MANAGING THE IMPACT OF CYBER-BULLYING ON PERSONNEL HEALTH
Cairns Port Douglas Trail Ultra personnel are expected to adhere to high standards of conduct in their dealings with clients and other members of the public, including in circumstances where members of the public react disproportionately or with anger. All responses should be professional and courteous, consistent with Brisbane Trail Ultra Values, and general Code of Conduct. The CPTU endeavour to engage effectively with the community, and work actively to provide responsive, client-focused service delivery. Nevertheless, the requirements of the Values, general principles, and Code of Conduct do not oblige personnel to submit to abuse—whether in person or online.
Dealing with members of the public who are demanding, abusive, or aggressive can be stressful and at times frightening, which may lead to concerns for personal security, and may in turn impact by causing stress on health.
CPTU encourage, personnel to report cyber-bullying by clients or members of the public to managers or coordinators, or senior managers to enable action to be taken.
Cyber-bullying is a problem with multiple dimensions.The BTU may require assistance and advice from external agency specialists, including IT, web services, people management, legal services, and security, to manage the problem effectively.
MANAGING THE IMPACT ON BTU PERSONNEL HEALTH
As with all types of bullying, cyber-bullying can have a serious impact on individuals' mental and physical health. Cyber-bullying can therefore create a work health and safety risk.
Where CPTU personnel has been subjected to cyber-bullying, useful guidance on recognising signs and signals of mental ill health, and preventative measures should be sought from a medical professional.
MANAGING THE IMPACT ON PERSONNEL SECURITY
This includes personnel who are being threatened with physical or other harm online or whose work-related personal information has been subject to unauthorised disclosure.
These matters should be referred to media IT security or physical/personnel security area. The CPTU takes all care to avoid access to personnel contact details, or remove them from the departmental contact list in serious cases. This could also extend in some circumstances to assisting employees to obtain a silent personal phone number, or silent elector status on the electoral roll, if the employee believes that they or their family could be at risk.
Information on protections available under the law, including from criminal conduct.
MONITORING ONLINE COMMENTS
The CPTU is responsible for identifying, evaluating, and responding to inappropriate online conduct through monitoring emails and tracking postings, comments, websites, blogs for content.
Responses will be decided on a case-by-case basis whether to alert personnel targeted in online comments directed at them which have come to attention.
EVALUATING ONLINE COMMENTS
If inappropriate online content that targets CPTU personnel is identified, steps will be taken to either have content removed or have the author or creator blocked (if the content is on any CPTU social media pages), or a response is submitted, or other action is taken that is deemed appropriate.
ONLINE CONTENT WILL BE ASSESSED THROUGH THE FOLLOWING:
Does the online material constitute legitimate criticism or is it purely malicious?
Does the content include personal information that has been obtained and/or used inappropriately—e.g. personal photos, videos or address information?
Does the content include obscene language or material?
Does it contain threats to, or unsubstantiated allegations?
Is the content potentially contrary to law, e.g. under racial vilification legislation or the Criminal Code Act 1995,in relation to 'using a carriage service to menace, harass or cause offence'?
Could the content be in violation of the 'terms and conditions' of the relevant social media platform?
Could the online content have a detrimental effect on the physical or psychological health and safety of CPTU personnel; for example, causing stress and therefore creating a duty of care or legal liability if action is not taken?
Could the content significantly damage the reputation of the CPTU?
What impact, if any, is the online content likely to have in the workplace, or on relationships between colleagues or with clients?
Is the client hijacking the communication stream in a way that has an impact on its effectiveness or the ability of other people to use it in the intended way?
Does the content appear to have been created with the intention to embarrass or humiliate?
Does the content incite others to engage in unlawful or inappropriate behaviour?
Has the online content been inappropriately obtained—for example, is it based on information that has been obtained or disclosed unlawfully?
RESPONDING TO ONLINE COMMENTS
Once the content has been assessed, a decision is made whether to remove any comments that are not appropriate or respond to comments in public or private.
A response will be provided for the following:
to correct the public record because there is a significant risk that the online content could mislead others
it is inflammatory, offensive, or unlawful
it could cause significant reputational or psychological harm
it discloses personal information about personnel or their family
it could give rise to legal or WH&S liability if it is not acted on
it undermines CPTU operations.
If it is determined that a response is required, responses may be made on the website or forum where the online content was discovered, on the CPTU website, blog, or social media , or in an online newsletter or other official communication channel.
Depending on the circumstances, the CPTU maintain the right to notify police and/or seek legal advice.
Cairns Port Douglas Trail Ultra ACKNOWLEDGEMENT, RELEASE AND INDEMNITY
Cairns Port Douglas Trail Ultra Acknowledgement, Release, and Indemnity
This is an important document that affects your legal rights and obligations. You must read it carefully prior to entering the event. During online entry, you must tick a box to confirm you have read and understood this form. Please re-read this form in a few days or weeks prior to the event to make yourself aware of the risks of participating. Only those participants doing a late entry transfer need to print and sign this form and bring to event registration.
In consideration of Cairns Port Douglas Trail Ultra (the “Event Organisers” or “Cairns Port Douglas Trail Ultra”) accepting my participation in any of the Cairns Port Douglas Trail Ultra running events to be held in the Queensland National Parks, Cairns Regional Council, Mareeba Regional Council, State Forest, Port Douglas Regional Council,(the “Event”) I agree to this release of claims, waiver of liability and assumption of risk.
1. I have read and understood the relevant Competitor Briefing document and information relating to the Event.
2. The Event Organisers may, at their sole discretion, refuse entry or cancel an entry (with a full refund) to any person for any reason whatsoever.
3. I understand the demanding physical nature of the Event. I declare, as a condition of entry to the Event, that I have sufficiently trained for this Event and that I am not aware of any illness, injury or any other physical disability which may cause me injury or death whilst participating in the Event.
4. In the event that I become aware of any medical condition or impairment, or am otherwise sick or injured prior to or during the Event, I will withdraw from the Event.
5. I acknowledge that participating in the Event is a dangerous activity and that by such participation I am exposed to certain risks. I acknowledge that the enjoyment of trail running is derived in part from the inherent risks and exertion beyond the accepted safety of life at home or at work and that these inherent risks contribute to such enjoyment and is a reason for my participation in the Event.
6. I acknowledge and understand that whilst participating in the Event:
• I may be injured, physically or mentally, or may die from various causes including, but not limited to, overexertion, dehydration, cardiac arrest, slips, trips or falls, accidents with other participants, spectators and road users, or accidents caused by my own actions;
• My personal property may be lost or damaged;
• I may cause injury to other persons or damage their property;
• The conditions in which the Event is conducted may vary without warning;
• I may be in a remote or isolated location where access to medical support may be limited and take significant time to reach me;
• There may be no or inadequate facilities for treatment or transport of me if I am injured;
• I assume the risk and responsibility for any injury, death or property damage resulting from my participation in the Event
7. I agree that if I am injured or require medical assistance, the Event Organisers may, at my cost, arrange medical treatment and emergency evacuation as deemed necessary by the Event Organisers. I agree that I am responsible for my own medical and ambulance insurance cover.
8. I agree to release, indemnify and hold harmless the Event Organisers, its officers, employees, agents, volunteers, contractors, public bodies, landholders and sponsors, from and against any and all claims, demands, right or cause of action, suits, expenses, costs and proceedings of any nature whatsoever which may be made by me or on my behalf or by other parties for or in respect of or arising out of any injury, loss, damage or death caused to me or my property as a result of my entry or participation in the Event whether by negligence, breach of contract or in any way whatsoever.
9. I also agree that in the event I am injured or my property is damaged, I will bring no claim, legal or otherwise, against the Event Organisers in respect to that injury or damage.
10. I understand that my medical history and personal information, collected as part of the entry process for the Event will be made available to the event medical team and operations team. It will only be used to help staff look after me if I need help and care. If I am evacuated from the event by Emergency Services, this personal information plus any new data entered by event staff will be supplied to the Emergency Services staff to enable my continued care.
11. I agree to allow my name, results, photographs, videos, multimedia or film likeness to be used for any legitimate purpose by Cairns Port Douglas Trail Ultra, the sponsors, event partners, or assigns without payment or compensation.
12. I acknowledge that my image may be taken by an Event photographer and that Event photographer may contact me to offer for sale images of me at the Event.
13. I agree to abide by the Event rules and the directions of all Event officials.
14. I acknowledge that the Event Organisers may change the advertised course without notice if the Event Organisers deem this necessary. I also acknowledge that the Event Organisers may cancel the Event due to weather conditions, safety considerations, public health orders, terrorism, or ‘acts of god’ and that in such circumstances my entry fee will be non-refundable.
15. I agree to attend or watch the Safety Briefing on Friday the 20th of August 2021 and I will be able to pick up my race pack from the Cairns Port Douglas Trail Ultra Festival 2021 between the hours of 12:00:00 and 20:00:00.
Cairns Port Douglas Trail SAFETY BRIEFING
COVID-19 SAFETY REQUIREMENTS
2020 and 2021 has been an eventful year but we do not want this to be memorable for the wrong reasons. Along with the formal safety briefing notes below, we must ensure all COVID-19 Safe event rules and checklists are followed. Please follow all regulations that apply to the Outdoor Recreational Activities Framework and Events Framework.
Our responsibilities as event organisers and your responsibilities as runners, support crew, volunteers and event personnel are to:
· Comply with the health directions of government and public health authorities as issued
· Understand and act in accordance to the event plans as set out in this safety briefing
· Comply with any testing and precautionary measures implemented as directed
· Act with honesty and integrity in regard to the state of your personal health and any potential symptoms
· Monitor your personal health and take a cautious approach to self-isolation and report any potential symptoms
· We advise you download the COVIDSafe App onto your phone
Our key messages for COVID-19 safety are:
· Stay at home if you are unwell or have a cough, fever, sore throat, fatigue or shortness of breath.
· Stay at home if you have been in a COVID-19 Hotspot in the last 14 days
· Stay at home if you have been in contact with a COVID-19 infected person in the last 14 days
· Maintain social distancing at all times- stay 1.5m apart at all times.
· Sanitise hands on entry into each checkpoint with the hand sanitiser provided and as often as required
· Cover your mouth with a bandana or other facial covering when coming into contact with checkpoint personnel
· Refrain from spitting and clearing your nose on course.
· Cough into your elbow
· Limit touching of eyes, nose and mouth
· Only touch your own drop bag and do not handle others
· If nutrition and hydration from the checkpoint is required, sanitise your hands prior to filling water bottles. Event staff will not be required to do this for you to avoid unnecessary contact.
· Follow directions as all checkpoints are one-directional to reduce bottlenecks
· When using the porta-loos, sanitise your hands prior to entry and spray the cubicle with disinfectant provided on exit.
· If you have a support person with you, please give you drop bag to them to take away
· All tissues, and other rubbish, must go into the bins provided.
· Do not share food and water with others.
· Do not share clothing, personal protective equipment or other equipment.
· Avoid unnecessary contact with event staff
· Sanitise your hands as frequently as possible. We recommend bringing your own hand sanitiser in your drop bags
· All support crew members must register their attendance. Jump onto our website and go to the race entry page to register all check point locations you will be attending
· If you develop any potential signs of being ill during the event, immediately isolate yourself from others and call the medical hotline for further direction.
· The CPTU Event Medical Hotline Number is 0421 003 720
FORMAL SAFETY BRIEFING
We acknowledge and respect the Djabugandji Bama (First Nations People ) the Traditional Owners of the area known as Djirri Nyundu Nyrrumba which included Barron Gorge National Park, the Djabugay people in the Kuranda Region. The CPTU course takes place within Wet Tropics World Heritage Area which extends for 450km between Townsville and Cooktown, consisting of nearly 900,000ha of vegetation of primarily tropical rainforest. We will also be passing through the Yirrganydji Country, mama kulpul-parra ( saltwater people ), this country extends from the Cairns Trinity Inlet, Pana Wangal to Diji, Port Douglas. This is a special and protected place, please travel with care, we all have to behave like custodians of the land and follow the Leave No Trace Principles.
· Travel on durable surfaces - only run on the marked trails
· Dispose of Waste at the Check Points
· Respect Wildlife
Trail Running is a dangerous sport and there is a risk of you being injured, lost, dehydrated or just plain exhausted. The condition of the trails this year are extremely slippery with the unseasonal rain. We ask that you all be careful when crossing creeks, and descending.
If you are sick, DO NOT RUN. Running when you are unwell can be extremely dangerous. Make yourself known to staff and support crew and we will withdraw you from the event.
It is important for you to look after yourself, stay alert, and watch every step. We advise you to:
· Drink to thirst to avoid dehydration, take a good quality electrolyte like Hammer Endurolyte every 30 minutes to 1 hour.
· Eat every 30-45 minutes to keep your glucose levels steady
· Have the capacity to carry at least 1.5L of fluid between checkpoints.
120km runners must be weighed in at the start line. Please check-in with event staff at the start line. Your weight will be logged on your race bib and start line logs. You will again be weighed at CP2, 40km into your run. If you lose more than 3% body weight or gain weight then we will ask you to see the First Aid officer for further assessment. If you have lost more than 2% body weight and you are showing signs of dehydration or generally looking unwell, then we will ask you to stay at the checkpoint until you have recovered or you may be pulled from the course. If you gain weight this is also a sign of danger as your body is no longer regulating your salts and electrolytes properly. This can be fatal especially if you continue to drink plain water. We provide electrolytes at the aid station. Please use them, it is for your own safety.
All Runners in the CPTU120, 80, 40 and 20 must carry a 1x High Visibility Vest that complies with the CPTU Standards for road crossings. They must wear the High VIs Vest when travelling along the roads on the course including, Speewah Rd, Stoney Creek Rd Speewah Until CP1, Stoney Creek Rd Kamerunga until CP2, Wrights Lookout Rd Kuranda, and CP3 Kuranda, Between CP3-CP4, CP5 and Mitre Street Beach Access walkway.
· When crossing roads, you MUST give way to cars and other vehicles. Cars have the right of way on the course. Only cross the road if it is safe to do so. If you are racing the CPTU120 or 80, you will cross two sugar train tracks on The Bump Track in Craiglea. You must give way to these trains.
· Remove your earphones when crossing roads for your own safety.
· It is good trail etiquette to remove earphones when running near others so you can hear if a runner would like to pass you, and more importantly hear if a fellow runner has a problem behind you.
· Follow COVID Safe guidelines and maintain social distancing at all times
· Use the provided hand sanitiser at the checkpoints, emergency water stops, finish line and toilets.
Listen to all marshals on the course. They are volunteers and are giving up their time so you can compete in the Cairns Port Douglas Trail Ultra.
Be kind and respectful to all marshals and volunteers. Any runner found disobeying a marshal on the road sectors of the course will be immediately disqualified.
Stay alert and ensure you follow the course markings. There will be a course marker at approximately 1km intervals on Clohesy River Rd and Black Mountain Rd, The Bump Track and 500m intervals on single tracks. Closhey 4WD Track has been marked “line of sight” where there is no clear path. We use 3 close markers will lead you around intersections, or follow the arrow. Forested single trail markings will be placed much closer together. Pink Ribbon with a reflector marker in the day and Pink Ribbons, If you require assistance and phone for help, the marker will locate you on course.
Clohesy River 4WD Track, is 5km in is an area that can not be reached by car 4WD on the CPTU120 and CPTU40 course. If you are injured here, there is little phone reception, let a passing runner know your location, or have the runner find the nearest marker and forward the message onto the CP Staff. Our sweepers will be following closely behind the last runner with first aid supplies. QAS Ambulance Vehicle support will be stationed at the South end of Speewah Rd, and will be able to assist. All runners entering this area will be wearing a GPS tracker; please ensure your GPS tracker is fitted correctly on your race vest.
Follow the “Arrows” in the direction it is pointing. The symbol “X” marks the wrong way, do not go this way. If you haven’t seen a course marker for 500 meters please stop, think and retrace your steps and go back to your last marker and check your position on your map. There are many off-shoot trails along the course. We have marked the course so there is either an arrow (continue the way of the arrow) or 3 ribbons leading you through an intersection. Only follow these course markings. If you are really lost, stop, stay where you are, conserve your energy and please call Cora for directions, Contact numbers are on your Race Bib and we will be able to help you. Put it into your phone now - 0483 071 844
If you are a 120km 80km or 40km runner, we will be able track your location with your GPS tracker. If you have not moved from an on-course location for 30min, we will contact you by phone. You must have phone battery at all times to ensure we can reach you.
If you are running the CPTU120 and CPTU40 event you will be crossing the Kuranda Scenic Railway Bridge when descending Douglas Track. This track crosses over the Kuranda Scenic Railway with a metal bridge. No runners are allowed to be on this bridge if the training is within 100m and approaching the bridge. You must stop and wait for the Train to fully pass under the bridge before you are allowed to cross the railway tracks. The train will be expect at the Douglas Track Bridge Crossing between 10:15 and 11:15 am.
Watch your step, every step. There are many rocks, tree roots, cliffs in the area that we are passing through, care must be taken to avoid injury.
The Rainforest areas have dangerous trees called Giant Stinging Trees, the leaves of this tree are large, broadly ovate shaped, pale green, hairy often heavily chewed by insects. The hairs can give you a severe sting that may last for days or even months. The pain can be referred to other areas of the body. The stings will be small red spots but may form together into a swollen mass. If stung, you can remove hairs with your strapping shape, like waxing yourself. When running, please avoid these leaves, as they will ruin your day or even month!
“Wait a whiles” are also a danger on the course, they hang down from climbing palm trees and can catch your clothing, packs or worse, eye, skin. Keep your hands close when on the course and keep a watch for the thin 6mm darkly coloured vines that are hanging from above. If you are caught, retrace your steps and just “Wait -a -While” be calm and untangle yourself.
Cassowaries are also common in the region, it is best to be respectful off their space. If you are lucky enough to come across a Cassowary, back away from the cassowary, get a few trees between yourself and the cassowary, or rotate your pack to the front of you if there are no trees around. Let the cassowary go on its way and keep calm and keep some trees between yourself and Cassowary, and slowly walk away.
Snakes are common when running anywhere in Australia, and is the reason why we have you carry a “Snake Bite Bandage”. If you are bitten by a snake. Stop moving, stay as still as possible, sit down and take out tour snake bite bandage. Apply the mummification method when applying your snake bite bandage and immobilise the affected area. Stay still can call 000 or our event Medical Line 0472 703 920. If you have a GPS tracker your tracker as an emergency button, press this button and it will automatically alert the CPTU Medics that you need assistance as well as give your location. If you are not in phone reception, send an SOS call out on your mobile phone and let the next runner know that you need assistance and they are to go to the nearest checkpoint to find help.
If you run past and someone is injured but can walk to the next checkpoint, please alert any on-course personnel and checkpoint staff know someone is injured. Please note their location, trail intersection and bib number. This information will aid with their “ETA” time at the checkpoint.
If you come across a runner who is seriously injured please call 000 or 0472 703 920 Event Medical Hotline, if this fails call our operations Number is - 0483 071 844 and follow the directions given.
If the injured runner cannot walk to the closest checkpoint and you are the first person on the scene, please stay with them until help arrives. We will deduct the time that you have used to help this runner from your overall time.
If you are out of reception please tell the next passing runner both of your bib numbers and give details of the injury or sickness to them, ask them to phone the Event Hotline 0483 071 844 when they are in reception. It is crucial that you stay with that injured/sick runner until help arrives. Put on your mandatory gear and stay warm. We will thank you for looking after another injured runner.
The national park may be closed at any time due to extreme weather events such as bush fires, storms, high winds or flash flooding. Continue to your closest checkpoint and we will direct you from here. Evacuation points will be the closest checkpoint. Please listen to event staff and follow directions to the closest CP for your evacuation. It is critical you have enough mobile phone battery so we can contact you. The nearest CP may be behind you.
Use the provided Port-A-Loos or approved toilets at the checkpoints, spray the toilets when you leave with provided disinfectant spray and use the hand sanitiser provided. If you are too far from a checkpoint, please move at least 15m off the track and away from water to relieve yourself. Bury all faeces 20cm below the ground height.
Be aware we are running in a public space and there will be other people using the course on race day. Please be kind and courteous to all other patrons and maintain social distance between others of 1.5m.
Please be mindful that mountain bikes and horses are also on course. Runners must give way to mountain bikes and horses. Horses will usually be seen on the fire trails so please give way for the horses and riders to pass safely. Although it is illegal for trail motorbikes in some areas of the national park, they have been seen riding on the trails along Black Mountain Rd. Please take care if you hear them for your own safety, let others around you know what you have heard and notify us by calling the event hotline printed on your bib and also notify the next checkpoint of your sightings.
Look after each other. Be kind to your fellow runner, remember even though this is a race, Trail Running and Ultra Trail Running can be a dangerous sport and we all need to be aware of our fellow Trail Runners to ensure each other’s safety.
Be careful and only pass when it is safe to pass. The best way to let someone know that you’d like to pass is to say “Hello, How are you”. Have a chat and let them know you’d like to pass. “Passing on the right, when it is next safe for both of us”. Then pass.
When approaching the Kuranda you may come into crowds of tourists, you MUST walk when you are within 5 meters of a tourist. Please ensure they know you are behind them say, “Hello, how gorgeous is Kuranda! I’ve just run 60km!!!!” and let them know you are going to pass on their right when it is safe. They will be blown away by how awesome you are. Only when you have past this tourist may you run again.
Stoney Creek, Smiths Track, are all incredibly steep descents with a slippery creek crossing at the bottom so please be careful as there is no vehicle access to these spots. If you are injured here there may be a delayed response time before help arrives. Please be careful and stay safe in these areas if you fall over you may be waiting a number of hours to be rescued.
In the event of a MEDICAL EMERGENCY dial 0472 703 920 or 000 and the CPTU on-the-Event 0483 071 844
ENTER THESE NUMBER INTO YOUR PHONE NOW!!!!
For all other non-life-threatening inquiries, Race Directors Numbers are printed on the back of your Race Bib Number.
EVENT HOTLINE 0483 071 844
Race Director Shona – 0417 693 281 ENTER INTO YOUR PHONE NOW
Race Co-ordinator -Cora – 0413 120 931 ENTER INTO YOUR PHONE NOW
Queensland Ambulance Services have advised that all runners download the Emergency Plus App onto your phone.
Look this up in your app store under the name of Emergency Plus by National Triple Zero Awareness Work Group.
This will be a direct communication application to access Triple Zero Emergency and will give you GPS Coordinates
Vehicles are moving around on course to keep you safe. You may see them at the intersections. We also have QAS Ambulance 4WD medics roaming the park in 4WDs in case of an emergency. CPTU will also have a 4WD Sweeper vehicle, helping with DNF runners and help sweeping the course.
There are areas of the course that are particularly remote and we WILL NOT BE ABLE TO PICK YOU UP IF YOU ARE INJURED. You will be waiting a long time to be carried out or choppered out. Take extra care through the following areas, Clohesy River Rd in Dinden National Park, and Barron Gorge National Park trails.
It is IMPORTANT THAT WE ONLY USE THE MEDICAL STAFF for MEDICAL EMERGENCIES.
We will have a sweeper vehicle for you if you do not make the cut off for your event. The sweeper vehicle will be advised to take you to the nearest checkpoint where support vehicles are allowed to enter. They are not to take you back to your car. Please make your own way back from the checkpoint after you have DNF.
If you are going to withdraw from the event, and suffer a heart-breaking “Did not Finish” please pull out at the closest checkpoint. If you are unable to make it to the checkpoint, please call the event numbers below and let the management staff know that you will be DNF-ing the CPTU. Otherwise, we will have to come and find you and that could end up being a very embarrassing exercise for yourself as we would have dedicated a search and rescue team just to look for you. You MUST let the Checkpoint Staff, CPTU Event Staff know if you are DNF-ing.
EVENT HOTLINE 0417 693 281
Shona – 0417 693 281 ENTER INTO YOUR PHONE NOW
Cora – 0413 120 931 ENTER INTO YOUR PHONE NOW
Please Leave No Trace. Pick up all rubbish that you drop. It is poor trail running etiquette to drop rubbish. Carry all rubbish that you have in a lockable bag and dispose of it in the rubbish bins at each checkpoint. Avoid single-use plastics and make use of the Drop Bags provided at the Check Points and your water bottles for Red Bull Energy cans.
All Runners are to wear their High Visibility Vest when running/walking on the footpaths From CP5 The Bump Track to 4 Mile Beach and crossing the roads in the residential area. At dusk, everyone MUST wear a head torch and a high visibility vest. For competitors leaving The Bump Track CP5 at sunset (around 6 pm), you MUST wear a head torch and high visibility vest. For runners leaving other checkpoints after 6 pm, all competitors including pacers MUST carry with them ahead torch and back up torch and batteries and high visibility vest ready to wear at sunset.
Cairns Port Douglas Trail Ultra course, like many exciting international trail running events, the CPTU comes into contact with nature and wildlife. Japan and North America runners are asked to be careful of bears, at Western States of America, mountain lions are also a danger. Almost all of Australia is a snake bite risk. Around the Kuranda region, there are Cassowaries that we also have to be careful of and respect. In sub-tropical and tropical rainforest areas we have the Giant Stinging Trees to be aware of, not to mention the “wait-a-whiles” All this can add to the adventure experience for trail runners. Or you can be like Race Director, Shona Stephenson is leech phobic!
This is Australia, Crocodiles are found along the Australian Coast from Gladstone to the Top of Cape York
The CPTU course is considered to be in Croc-Country, this means that we have to be careful when close to large bodies of water. Locals live alongside crocodiles daily without any problems, however they are careful and always aware they could be there.
The risk of being taken by a Crocodile on the CPTU course is low. You will be running along a course, that is on land. Any creek crossing you do will be in the dry season and in freshwater, away from deep water and estuaries. 4 Mile Beach is not a natural hunting habitat for a crocodile, as it is a flat beach and does not provide the depth for a crocodile to launch its body out of the water as their hunting ground is rivers and estuaries. They may use it as a “Highway” to move between river mouths, so we still have to be aware and alert.
The CPTU course finishes on a beach that is tidal. This means the water level will change over the course of the event. Only the CPTU120 and CPTU80 runners may be affected. Our leading runners will be arriving at Low Tide and will not be affected. However, some runners in the CPTU120 and CPTU80 may be affected by the high tide.
High Tide is at 16:30 (4:30 pm Saturday Evening) 2.09 meter Tide.
We have been advised by a local crocodile handler about the risks of running along 4 Mile Beach at high tide and at night. For this reason, we are asking you to be “Croc-wise”.
To help you to be “Croc-wise”, You will be allowed to have a pacer with you from The Bump Track CP5 from Dusk. This will mean you will have a fresh set of eyes, and an extra head torch with you to keep an eye out for Crocodiles. We highly recommend an Ay-UP Headtorch, as they are like a car headlight. If you do not have a pacer organised you may wait for the next runner to run along the beach with to the finish line, or take the High Tide Course and avoid the beach at night.
There will be a period during the event that you will have the option to use the CPTU High Tide Route and divert away from the beach to avoid the high tide along 4 Mile Beach, Port Douglas, 3.5km from the finish line. This will be between 3 am - 5 am, at 1 hour on either side of high tide have the option to be diverted along the Old Port Rd, right onto the beach walkway, left onto the Esplanade, then finishing at Port Douglas Surf Life Saving Club. The High Tide through the night is a 1.65m tide, there is more than 5 meters clear beach for you to run on in the night, therefore the risk is low, however, the option is there if you feel unsafe running on the beach by yourself at night.
You will also have GPS Trackers on you and will be contacted if we have a crocodile sighting, you will be diverted to the high tide route. Make sure your phone battery will last the entire event.
We have been advised that a 3m distance on 4 Mile Beach is a safe distance between yourself and the water’s edge. This differs from a deep-water safe distance of 5m, as advised in the link below. When around deep water (like the Mowbray River, Lake Placid Kamerunga, or a deep waterhole, lake), please stay more than 5m away from the water’s edge. Please also make your support crew, family and spectator aware of the Crocodile Danger and make sure they are also being Croc Wise.
Please read the Queensland Government Website for more details.
Queensland Government Guidelines Below
Croc country (considered to be typical crocodile habitat) begins at the Boyne River south of Gladstone, and extends northward, up the east coast, and across Far North Queensland. Crocodiles can sometimes also be found outside of the croc country.
Just because you can’t see a crocodile, it doesn’t mean there is not a crocodile close by. Crocodiles can stay underwater for more than an hour. Even large crocodiles can be completely concealed in knee-deep water.
Report all crocodile sightings as soon as possible even if you’ve reported the animal before by:
Using the QWildlife app available for iOS and Android
accessing the sighting report online, or
calling 1300 130 372 [select option 1]
Stay at least 5m from the water’s edge
Crocodiles often hunt their prey at the water’s edge
Dispose of your food and fish scraps in a bin
Don’t leave food, fish scraps or bait near the water, around your campsite or at a boat ramp. Crocodiles will be attracted by an easy meal, and this puts subsequent visitors to the area at risk.
Do not feed crocodiles
it is illegal, dangerous, and teaches crocodiles to associate humans with food.
Be extra cautious at night, dusk, and dawn when crocodiles are most active.
Do not use kayaks, paddleboards, and other small craft in crocodile habitat areas. The smaller the vessel, the greater the risk—crocodiles have taken people from small vessels.
Stay well away from crocodile traps
Crocodile traps are designed to attract hungry crocodiles so avoid fishing and boating near them and never interfere with them. People who deliberately interfere with the operation of crocodile traps face potential penalties of over $15,000.
Dogs are attractive prey to crocodiles.
Keep your pets on a lead and away from the water’s edge.
Watch out for crocodiles in unusual places after very high tides and heavy rains.
Crocodiles can move further upstream during very high tides and periods of flooding and may move into new areas where they have not been seen before.
Breeding female crocodiles will defend their nests aggressively.
September to April is the breeding season for crocodiles.
Crocodiles are more active during the warmer months of the wet season.
Mandatory Gear helps us keep you safe when on the CPTU course, for this reason, random spot checks will be conducted over the course for the entrants. A time penalty of 2 hours will be given to a runner found not carrying the full mandatory gear list. See the detailed mandatory gear list for each event on our website.
There are “12 loops” on the CPTU course. Failure to travel through these sections of the course and cross the timing mats will incur an 8 hour time penalty or a disqualification if the runner knew of their mistake and did not return and complete the missed section on the course.
These loops are at for the Clohesy Fig Tree CPTU120, CPTU40 and Smiths Track Loop CPTU120.
Your GPS tracker will show us your movements on course, so it is in your best interest to pay attention of the markers and follow the course markers closely for CPTU120, CPTU80, CPTU40 entrants. We will also request STRAVA Files and GPS Watch data to check the correct route was completed if there is a protest.
Please familiarise yourself with your map or upload the relevant file onto your smartwatches. Please familiarise yourself with the map and follow the signs at this junction. A timing mat will be placed on the circuit and we will be able to tell if runners miss this loop.
Poles may be required by some competitors to aid with descending and ascending some of the steep sections.
We are Co-Hosting a King of the Mountain Style Red Bull Climb from checkpoint 2, Kamerunga to Kuranda on the Smith Track.
If you are on the course after 6 pm and would like to have a pacer with you after Check Point 5, The Bump Track. Your pacer must be carrying a minimum of CPTU20km course mandatory gear, plus a GOOD head torch like an AY-UP Pacers must “Check-In” with Check Point Staff Prior to entering the course. Please note, pacers cannot pick up their race packs at the checkpoint as these MUST be picked up at registration.
Pacers are not allowed to carry anything for the runner. Any pacer found mule-ing for the runner will result in the runner receiving a 2 hour time penalty.
When entering the Speewah, Kamerunga, Kuranda and Port Douglas sections please be extra careful as you will be crossing roads. STAY ON THE FOOTPATHS where possible. Give way to traffic and stop at all traffic lights and wait for green lights to cross major intersections on our course at Kuranda, Kennedy HWY, and Entering Port Douglas as we will have traffic management at the major road crossings. When on the CPTU course you must follow pedestrian road rules.
Be extra careful at these intersections as they may have blind spots and a bike may be moving swiftly through this area especially on Sunday Morning 6am. Pacers are your fresh eyes for these sections!
Look after the safety of your children, be Croc Wise, and obey the signage at waterways. Climbing on fencing and barriers is also prohibited.
Congratulations!! You have just crossed the line in your inaugural Cairns Port Douglas Trail Ultra! Please come into the recovery area, hydrate first with either a hammer fizz or endurolytes, have some recovery nutrition. If you are not well, make yourself known to our first aid staff and we will look after you.
You have now finished your race at 4 Mile Beach and have the opportunity to celebrate your race completion safely. Please abide by all COVID-19 Safe protocols set in place by Surf Life Saving Club to keep us safe.
Runners are allowed to use the Port Douglas Surf Life Saving Club (PDSLSC) showers and toilets on Saturday until Sunday morning 0900, when Nippers begins. After 0900 runners can use the public toilets and showers provided.
Make use of the “The Surfies” Bistro next to the PDSLSC, as they make great burgers, chips and serve beer until 3pm, then they will have a food truck for us.
Be respectful of all residents on course. Noise restrictions are as per usual, with minimal noise from 10 pm Saturday evening until 9 am Sunday morning.
Drop bags will be delivered to on Saturday for the CPTU40, CPTU20, All “finish line bags” will be delivered on Saturday to their finish line. CPTU80 and CPTU120 drop bags will be taken to the Finish line PDSLSC. CP6 closes at 0600; expect drop bags to arrive by 1000am Sunday. You must collect your drop bag/finish line bag by 15:00pm Sunday afternoon from PDSLSC.
Stay safe, enjoy the beautiful rain forests, single trails, and views. Look after each other and you will have a fantastic adventure.