Expressions of interest are pouring in which indicates that next year's Wooden Boat Festival will be bigger, better and more beautiful than before! The massive program includes the crowd-pleasing Grand Parade of boats, the Classic Yacht passage race from Melbourne, the Couta Boat passage race from Portarlington, harbour races on Corio Bay, demonstration races by a fleet of 'Herons', the added bonus of the Couta Boat Victorian Titles AND an outstanding shoresides display.
At the 150 year old Royal Geelong Yacht Club, Australia's maritime heritage will be on show during the Labour day weekend holiday of 6th and 7th of March with an expanded shoreside display as well as producing some never-to-be-forgotten sights on the waters of the jewel-of-the-south, Corio Bay.
On shore, the public, will be able to meander along jetties and soak in the beauty of this display of well loved wooden boats! There will be old ocean racers, fishing boats, harbour greyhounds, and ex-pilot launches plus large topsail cutters, putt putts, dories, classic speedboats, yachts and clinker built dinghies. Each one absolutely gleaming with the sheer care, love and attention showered upon them by proud owners.
At the Presentation Dinner, Tim Phillips will speak of his pride and joy, 'Storm Bay' then at lunchtime on Sunday, David Ramage will tell of the building of 'Metani' and his experiences when sailing her to the Caribbean. Shore-based displays will include prominent boat builders whose exhibits will complement this historic assembly of Victoria's outstanding maritime heritage.
The 2010 program will again include the magnificent Cavalcade of Sail at the Grand Parade, the Concourse d' Elegance, racing on the bay for the Corio Bay Couta Boat Cup, The Couta Boat Victorian Titles and the fleet of 'Herons' zipping around close inshore in their demonstration races! There's only one word for it – – 'Spectacular'!
And, as the man said – 'There's MORE!' Rope making, boat building displays featuring some of Australia's prominent shipwrights, a display of the Royal Geelong Yacht Club's 150 years of history, a BBQ and sausage sizzle will add to these attractions. Saturday and Sunday will be massive days out for the public, when all displays, exhibitions and displays will be open to all. Everyone is welcome and for the general public, entry is free.
Registration forms will be available within the next 2 weeks. Further information (03) 5229 3705 or visit www.rgyc.com.au
– Bob Appleton.
