Canberra Traditional Boatfest 2024

The Traditional Boat Squadron of Australia are bringing the Canberra Traditional Boatfest to Lake Burley Griffin this April as part of the Canberra and Region Heritage Festival!

Visit the lawns of the of the Canberra Yacht Club on Saturday for a great day out or settle by the shores of Lake Burley Griffin to watch the Grand Parade on Sunday.

Do you have a tradition boat and want to take part? All traditional boats are welcome:  rowers, putt-putts, sailing craft, steamboats, and wooden boats! 

Saturday 13 April    

0900am           Cruise including morning tea on Lake Burley Griffin

11:00-14:00      Public display of boats and boating equipment.

14:00               Explore the lake at your leisure.

18:30               Dinner at Statesman Hotel with guest speaker, and social chat

Sunday 14 April      

10:00-12:00     Grand Parade to Kingston Harbour and return.

PARKING & ACCESS

There are two boat ramps and a jetty in Lotus Bay, about 100 m from the club. There is sufficient parking for cars and trailers at the ramps. Small boats could be launched directly from the lawns of the yacht, but parking there has limits. For those not familiar with Lake Burley Griffin, you can download a chart of the lake .

SAFETY & LICENCING

When operating a power boat on the lake you should have all the usual safety equipment: lifejackets, bailing bucket, paddle /oars, torch, whistle/ horn, fire extinguisher and anchor with rope. As Lake Burley Griffin is classed as ‘Alpine waters’ lifejackets should be worn in any boat less than 4.8 m length.

To operate a power boat on the lake you should have a power boat permit, which is issued free by the National Capital Authority. The permit can be a temporary permit, or if you think you might visit again, apply for an annual permit, which will be automatically renewed each year. Apply for a permit Category C3 for ‘traditional boats’.  The permit application can be found HERE.

You do not need a power boat driver’s licence for LBG. Any traditional power boat on LBG needs to remain below 10 knot speed.

THINGS TO BRING

Bring a folding chair so we can sit on the lawns or under shade near the boats to have lunch. Bring a warm jacket. April is the best weather of the year for a Boatfest, but Canberra weather is notoriously fickle.

FOOD AND DRINK

Fish and chips can be bought at Snapper on the lake which operates onsite with outdoor tables adjacent to Canberra Yacht Club.

Hosted by THE TRADITIONAL BOAT SQUADRON OF AUSTRALIA, this event is presented as part of the annual Canberra and Region Heritage Festival.