Entry numbers are well up on last year’s inaugural event already, and with some new categories this year, organisers are expecting a flood of last-minute registrations.

A teams event will be a new aspect this year, with schools and businesses welcome to enter on March 10.

Steve Moneghetti can’t make it this year, but there will still be some gun competitors running.

Last year’s Forster Running Festival winner, Anthony Farrugia, will take part.

Joining him will be the runner-up from Port Macquarie’s event, Mark Warren.

Race director Peter Camilleri said some ironmen had also signed up to compete.

Camilleri said some competitors, who would be training for May’s Ironman event, would ride the bike course on the Saturday, and take part in the running festival on the Sunday.

Competitors will find things a bit easier this year, with the hilly section near Oxley Beach taken off the course.

The Settlement Point Road section of the course has been extended.

 “The times should be faster,” Camilleri said.

 A packed program of events is set down for the festival.

 The 21.1km half marathon will start at 7am. That’s followed by a 10km fun run at 9am. A 5km fun run is at 9.45am, with a 4km walk at 10.20am, and a 4km fun run for kids aged 9-12.

At 11.15am there will be a 2km fun run for kids aged from 4-8, before the presentation at 11.45am.

Organisers are still on the lookout for volunteers to help run the event.

A free tshirt and lunch is on offer for those willing to help out. To lend a hand, phone Peter Camilleri on 0404 835 060.