Once again a plethora of volunteers from the Hastings will be required, at least 2,200, for the combined 70.3 and full Ironman event.

What people may not know is that the humongous triathlon, which brings in thousands of competitors, their family and friends from all over Australia, raises plenty of money for local sporting and community groups.

Local organising committee chairman for Ironman, Mike Reid, said they are looking forward to the colossal event.

“We expect well and truly in excess of 2000 competitors on the course which is really good for the tourism side,” he said.

“From a volunteer point of view we are working hard and are looking at different fundraising efforts, like the new bright night run and walk, which will be on the Friday night before Ironman.”

The fundraiser is for community and sporting groups that help with the organisation and volunteer efforts on Ironman weekend.

“Last year we raised about $52,000 to go towards local community and sporting groups,” Reid said.

“It’s getting close to $400,000 raised over the last 12 years, and Ironman also contribute funds to us, because it is a massive effort to organise the event.

“Again in the end the money goes towards local community groups and sporting clubs, not the individuals.”

Some of those groups include the CWA Port Macquarie Branch, Emergency department at the hospital, the Men’s Shed Laurieton, the Rotary Club Port Macquarie and the Port Macquarie basketball and netball associations.

The local organising committee hope to negotiate another five year term with Ironman at the end of this year.