2020 Yamaha Variety Jet Trek off to a delayed start

With winds ranging from 25 to 35 knots and an ocean swell ranging from 2 to 4 metres, the 107km run from Coffs Harbour to Yamba was called off due to safety concerns.

Instead, the field of 90 jet skis will be taken by road to the start of leg two, which runs from Grafton to Ballina.

Organisers said forecasts showed the weather would improve in the next 24 hours – and for the remainder of the week – and expected there would not be any further cancellations.

As part of the permits for the event – given by marine safety authorities – organisers are obliged to cancel stages due to severe weather or when the wind forecast exceeds 30 knots.

Today, the 2020 Yamaha Variety Jet Trek will travel from Grafton to Iluka before stopping for the night in Ballina.

From there the event travels to the Gold Coast and Redcliffe before finishing on the Sunshine Coast.

This is the 22nd running of the annual charity ocean ride. Last year’s event alone raised a total of $404,708 – after costs – the highest ever recorded from a Jet Trek.

In previous years the event has raised $380,000 (2018) and $270,000 (2017). Over two decades the event has raised more than $2 million – after costs – to buy equipment that goes directly to helping sick or disadvantaged children.

Boatsales.com.au is among those who raised money to participate in the 2020 Yamaha Variety Jet Trek. Every dollar raised goes directly to help those in need because participants pay additional fees that go towards the running of the event.

You can nominate our entry number PWC17 and donate here.