More than half a century since its debut, 4017’s own Vintage Yacht Regatta continues to celebrate Queensland’s rich maritime heritage with one of the bayside’s most distinctive racing events.
The Queensland Cruising Yacht Club (QCYC) regatta will set sail on the weekend of 18-19 July.
QCYC Sailing Chair, Jack Morrison, said that the regatta, now in its 51st year, is one of the longest-running events of its kind in Queensland.
“The fact that it has continued for more than five decades really speaks to the affection people have for these boats and the community that surrounds them,” he said. “It is a very social event, but also an important celebration of maritime history and traditional sailing.”
Commonly known as ‘The Gaffers’ due to the many traditional gaff-rigged yachts that once dominated the event, the regatta now welcomes a broader range of classic and vintage vessels.
While timber yachts remain the heart and soul of the event, Jack explained that not every vessel is timber-built.
“The regatta celebrates classic craftsmanship and preservation, so you will often see beautifully maintained timber cruisers and racing yachts alongside restored classics,” he said. “The age range of the vessels is remarkable. Some boats date back to the early to mid-twentieth century and many have fascinating histories tied to Moreton Bay and Queensland sailing heritage.”
More Than a Race: A Celebration of Maritime Heritage
Visually striking with colourful timber boats and crews in traditional attire, and a strong sense of camaraderie around the club, the regatta is a fantastic event for spectators with the best vantage points from the QCYC waterfront and surrounding foreshore in Shorncliffe and Cabbage Tree Creek.
As the weekend is as much a social gathering as it is a racing event, crews and spectators alike are welcome to join in for a party and music when the boats return Saturday afternoon. Fittingly, as rum has long been associated with sailors and life at sea, Husk Rum is a proud sponsor of the regatta.
Commodore David Hamilton agreed that the regatta was about more than just racing.
“It’s a celebration of craftsmanship, history and the people who keep these remarkable boats sailing,” he said. “Whether you’re a sailor or simply enjoy a day by the water, we’d love to see you at QCYC for what promises to be a great weekend.”
Find more information on the timetable for the weekend’s events at Queensland Cruising Yacht Club.
Vintage Yacht Regatta
- Saturday, 18 July – Sunday 19 July, 10am-4pm (approx.)
- Queensland Cruising Yacht Club
- Sinbad Street, Shorncliffe
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