One of Tasmania’s favourite entertainers, John X (above) will join Andrew Colrain to host this year’s Seafarers’ Festival on the Bellerive Boardwalk.
John X said that after long stints working in shows in Sydney and Melbourne he was looking forward to returning to his home turf.
“Being an eastern shore boy, it’s great to be involved in an event that celebrates the shore and the water and everything involved around it. I bet the weather will be awesome! It’s the Gold Coast of Hobart after all.”
Clarence City Council event coordinator Wendy Moles said that as well as being lots of fun, the Seafarers’ Festival also offered an entry point for Tasmanians to try activities such as boating and fishing.
“As summer approaches, this year’s Festival will encourage families to get involved in new marine activities,” Ms Moles said.
“Families can pick up loads of tips on enjoying water sports and recreation safely. This year we are helping the Australian Volunteer Coastguard to celebrate its 50th anniversary with representation by the Kettering base and crew.”
“And a new group called Boating Safety Volunteers Inc. will launch their marine safety program at the Festival.”
Boating Safety Volunteers, which was founded this year, aims to promote safety and responsible boating to recreational boaters in Tasmania.
One of the founders, Mal Sutcliffe said that the group will spread the safety word at open forums at clubs and other venues and through visits by their volunteers to boat ramps, where they will pass out free information packs made up from a variety of boating safety publications.
“Our intention is to support and promote self awareness in boating and to introduce the principles of prevention rather than rescue to those new to boating,” Mr Sutcliffe said.
“BSV is not another rescue organisation; we are an open education group promoting responsible boating in support of other existing efforts.”
Ms Moles said the Festival will also offer activities and information for all ages at the many marine science and history stalls.
“Visitors to the Festival can also get a taste for other fun marine activities such as outrigger canoeing and sea scouts.”
Ms Moles said the Festival organisers worked hard to include a broad cross-section of experiences for patrons.
“We make sure the mix is balanced between entertainment on stage and on the water, and tips on ocean safety and sustainability.”
The Seafarers’ Festival will be held on the Bellerive Boardwalk and Kangaroo Bay on Sunday 23 October from 10.30am to 4pm. Entry and children’s activities are free.
Dane Hunnerup Arts & Events Support Officer, Lyndall Edwards Marketing and Communications Officer Clarence City Council
