Rain Doesn't Stop King & Queen of the Hill Competitors

It was an early start and a drizzly morning for those brave enough to tackle the annual King & Queen of the Hill competition Photos: Zeepard Photos

‍

It was an early start and a drizzly morning for those brave enough to tackle Mount Inkerman on Saturday, 24th October, for the annual King & Queen of the Hill competition.

With the starting time set for 6am, competitors gathered at the foot of the hill, ready to see who had what it took to make it to the top.

‍

The weather might not have been ideal, but it certainly didn't stop participants from giving it their best, with competitors of all ages taking on the climb as part of this year's Queensland Country Bank Home Hill Harvest Festival celebrations.

‍

Taking home the 2026 titles were Keely Watson (Under 12 Girls), Ryder Vass (Under 12 Boys), Luke Blacklock (13–16 Boys), Amity Cornford (18–35 Women), Aaron Bathis (18–35 Men), Stefanie Washbourne (35+ Women) and Robert Tama (35+ Men).

‍

‍

Feed Me Food was also there bright and early, keeping everyone fuelled with hot coffee and breakfast. The warm refreshments were particularly welcome given the damp conditions.

The Home Hill Harvest Festival Committee was pleased to see the event continue for another year and extended a special thank you to Mark Watson from Alliance Pharmacy, who has generously sponsored the competition year after year.

‍

The committee also congratulated the winners and thanked everyone who turned up to take part, whether they were racing for a title or simply keen to challenge themselves.

King & Queen of the Hill is one of several events leading up to the Home Hill Harvest Festival, with this year's Rio Carnivale celebrations set to take over the town on Saturday, 7th November.

‍

The Street Party will begin at 3pm, followed by the Grand Parade at 5pm.

‍

Contributed by the Home Hill Harvest festival Committee

‍