BOATS towing skiers at speeds of 120kmh will tear through Tweed waterways next weekend for the 17th annual Nev Wilson Memorial ski race.

Beginning next Saturday, teams from as far as Bundaberg, along with local crews, in a range of classes including junior, social, novice, next generation and unlimited, will take to the waters of Tumbulgum, Murwillumbah and Fingal, as they thunder around the Tweed River.

Staged by the Tweed River Water Ski Club, the race in memorial of former Tweed skier Wilson is part of the East Coast Ski Racing Series and is race two of five for the season.

Starting with short course circuit racing around Tumbulgum from Condong on Saturday from midday, crews will race three 15km laps before moving on to Murwillumbah on Sunday morning.

Race director Brian Shepherd said the high-octane thrills of ski racing always attracted strong interest from crews and spectators alike.

"We're expecting about 16 boats this year, which is a good turnout and up on last year,” Shepherd said.

"Tumbulgum is really spectator friendly and we encourage people to come down and have a look.”

Sunday's feature 2 Up race pits boats with unlimited inboard or outboard engines against eachother, as crews race from Murwillumbah to Fingal and back.

Racing gets underway at 8.30am and Shepherd said tricky elements made it a tough proposition for crews.

"We start a kilometre out from the river mouth, so it's quite a race,” he said.

"There's different challenges. You can start with a quick time, but your last three ks can be hard as you become fatigued and tired.”

While speed is a major drawcard, Shepherd said there was a firm focus on fun.

"The speed is why we love the sport and that's what attracts people. It's an adrenalin rush,” Shepherd said.

"But we're using social skis and shorter length ropes as the club itself is based on social and family fun.

"Everyone can have a go, so it's not about going the fastest, it's about competing.”

Spots are still open for the various categories, with entries closing tomorrow (Sunday).

Visit Tweed River Water Ski Club online or on Facebook for times, costs and details.