Residents are being encouraged to not miss the boat when the Maitland River Regatta returns on Australia Day in 2023.
With an inflatable raft as their vessel, punters can set sail – between 3pm and 8pm on Thursday 26 January – from RH Taylor Reserve in Lorn for a serene float down the Hunter River, before disembarking at Lorn Beach.
Rounding out the event is a raft of activities and entertainment, with food trucks serving delicious dishes and drinks, water-based amusement rides, kids’ activities, beach games, music and much more.
“Regatta ticket sales are strong, so locals should get in quick to lock in their Australia Day plans,” Maitland City Council team leader events Kara Stonestreet said.
“What better way to spend the day than hopping in an inflatable boat and embarking on a relaxing float down the river?
“If sticking to dry land is more your speed, there are all sorts of free fun and games for families to enjoy at RH Taylor Reserve.
“There’s no excuse to miss out on this lively all-ages afternoon.”
Ms Stonestreet said the Maitland River Regatta was a popular fixture on council’s Make It Maitland This Summer program of events.
“It’s a thrilling throwback to the Great Maitland Raft Race that long term locals will fondly remember from the 70s and 80s,” she explained.
“We trialled this new format last year.
“And, the reception from our community was really positive.”
Council’s Australia Day festivities also include free entrance to the Maitland Aquatic Centre from 10am and the annual Australia Day citizenship ceremony from 10.30am.
Tickets for the 2023 Maitland River Regatta are on sale now.
Prices start from $15 for an hour long session in a one or two-person boat.
To find out further details, or to book, visit mait.city/riverregatta.
For more entertainment stories:
- Here’s to holidaying in your hometown in 2023
- On yer marks: Australia Day Newcastle Harbour Swim 2023
- Port Stephens gears up for its biggest Australia Day yet
Get all the latest Newcastle news, sport, real estate, entertainment, lifestyle and more delivered straight to your inbox with the Newcastle Weekly Daily Newsletter. Sign up here.
