Boatfest 2026 — An April Weekend to Remember on Lake Burley Griffin.

April delivered one of those crisp Canberra mornings made for being on the water, and the Traditional Boat Squadron of Australia’s Boatfest 2026 did not disappoint. From the first lines cast off at 10am to the toasts at D’Browes, it was a weekend that reminded us all why we love these beautiful old boats.

The day opened with a cruise to Yarramundi Reach — a gentle procession of timber and varnish across the lake, with a hefty morning tea served mid journey. There’s something special about sharing a cup of tea on a classic wooden vessel with the Brindabellas as your backdrop. We saluted the Governor General’s residence with a little bit of noise as a tip of the hat.

By midday, the boats had gathered for the main public display. Lake Burley Griffin became a floating museum of heritage boating — gaff-rigged sailing vessels, a working steam-powered paddle boat called the Enterprise, open dinghies with bright sails, and immaculately presented motorboats. Special mention must also be made of the large number of smaller steam boats on display. The variety on show was a testament to just how much passion our members put into their craft. There were over thirty boats on display making for a very festive Canberra atmosphere.

The entertainment was outstanding. The Sea Shanty singers set the maritime mood, and from 1:30pm the Prism Jazz Ensemble filled the foreshore with big band jazz sound, the horns carrying across the water on a perfect autumn afternoon. Well, it may have been a little windy …

Not all steam engines were in boats! Another kids favourite of the event is George the steam train.!

There are a few special mentions to be made:

• The Enterprise is a favoured attraction. Vistors numbers were significantly up this year - a total of 327 versus 250 last year! The Enterprise is a special boat and an important part of Australian maritime history. We must thank the National Museum of Australia for supporting us again this year!

• Aorere Owner Russell Gruen made a heroic effort to attend, coming all the way from Hong Kong for the weekend to ensure this amazing sailing boat, built in 1898, was able to participate! Thank you Russell! And to you too Bosun Bailey …

The evening gathered pace with pre-dinner drinks before the crowd moved to D’Browes Restaurant for a memorable dinner. The highlight of the night were the four awards — presented with great ceremony (and a notable canine co-presenter) to a very deserving owner.

Best Presented Boat: Jewels by David Yates

Best Presented Boat (second place): Kingfisher by Colin Law

Best Presented Boat (third place) Fossil

Best Presented Boat Dog: Bosun Bailey

Sunday morning was a cruise down to Kingston Harbour where we made a very noisy three laps of the harbour providing the local cafes and residence a sparkling spectacle of traditional boating.

A wonderful weekend, a wonderful club. We’re already looking forward to 2027.