AFTER 40 years of Fun Race sailing, the beginning of a new era awaits.

Whitsunday Sailing Club commodore Stu Harris said the Airlie Beach Fun Race was an important part of the town's history, one which can't just "slip by the wayside”.

"We have to find a way to involve more of the community in this community event,” he said.

"The perception is it is only for sailing boats, but we also had trawlers and powerboats this year.

"We will reform the Fun Race and it will go ahead next year.”

Mr Harris said the key to beginning a successful new era lay in marketing.

"We have got to speak to local business and get the message out in all forms of media,” he said.

The Fun Race held yesterday had something for all 40 boats and 200 people involved, including superb weather, favourable 18 knot winds and competitive sportsmanship.

There was no shortage of crew members embracing the quirky spirit of the event.

The "Riff Raff” vessel was presented in the form of a castle and crew members on board "7 Heavens” dressed up in Banana in Pyjama costumes.

The Fun Race officially started at 12.10pm and featured four divisions racing along the Pioneer Bay.

Skipper of the TeVake II vessel Angus Fletcher said the weather conditions were ideal for his boat which was built to withstand even the harsh conditions encountered on the Bass Straight.

"As soon as the breeze kicks in off it went, it was a beautiful sail back,” he said.

"We were the first boat home, but don't know it will work out with handicap results.”

First place was claimed by the Joshua C tall ship, however other presentations were also presented for the best dressed boat "Miss Figure Head” and the last boat to finish the race.

Winners received the traditional bottle of rum prize and entertainment was provided to sailors from 3pm-8pm.

Half of the money raised for the Fun Race will be donated to the Prostate Cancer Foundation via the Shag Islet Cruising Yacht Club.