The Hobart Regatta is an annual series of aquatic competitions and displays held in Hobart over three days. It is Tasmania’s oldest sporting event!
It started in December 1838, organised by Lieutenant-Governor Sir John Franklin and his wife. Franklin provided free food and drinks for all those who came, and the tradition of free entry has been upheld to this day. The Monday was declared a public holiday, and is currently the oldest public holiday still continuing in Australia.
The Regatta has been held every year except 1967, when bushfires caused its last-minute cancellation. On-shore activities have become popular, and the whole event has taken on a carnival-like atmosphere.
The event celebrated its one-hundred-and-seventy-fifth anniversary in 2013.
Events
Regatta events include:
- sailing;
- rowing;
- open water swimming;
- wood chopping;
- jet ski racing;
- dragon boat racing;
- a tug of war;
- a 1.6-kilometre swim across the width of the Derwent River; and
- a Miss Regatta girl competition.
The Regatta always has an official attendance ceremony by the Governor.
Photo Gallery
Bibliography
