More than 2500 people will float down the Yarra River in Hawthorn today as part of the biggest inflatable boating event ever held in the Southern Hemisphere: Inflatable Regatta 2018.
Pumped up by major sponsors Melbourne Water, the event which runs through Hawthorn has in three short years become a major fixture on the city’s event calendar and an exuberant celebration of the Yarra.
Founder Courtney Carthy said the Regatta had grown every year since beginning as a ticketed event in 2016 with 500 participants, now in 2018 it’s five times the size.
Its origins reach back further, with the genesis of the event taking hold in 2008 when a handful of Carthy’s friends floated down the river on a summer’s day.
"Every year we expand the event so more people can experience the Yarra from this unique perspective," said Carthy.
"But no matter how big it gets, we want it to retain the spirit of that first trip in 2008 – mates floating down the river under their own steam, appreciating the natural beauty of the Yarra."
This year for the first time, participants will enjoy live acoustic music acts dotted along the course, playing from jetties and pontoons.
And as in previous year, refreshments and food trucks will greet the finishers at Scotsburn Reserve.
"Melbourne often forgets that the river’s here, and we can create events like Inflatable Regatta, just make sure you call Parks Victoria first."
Melbourne Water, General Manager, Waterways and Land, Tim Wood, said Melbourne Water is proud to be associated with the 2018 Inflatable Regatta.
"Healthy waterways are a big part of what makes our city one of the most liveable in the world," Mr Wood said.
"Recent social research showed that more than 80% of Melburnians believe the Yarra River plays a key role in making Melbourne a great place to live.
"We know the community loves riding, jogging and rowing along the Yarra, and the Inflatable Regatta event gives people the chance to get up close and personal with our iconic river in a whole new way," he said.
The boats will be launching from Yarra Bank Reserve in Hawthorn from 10 AM to 4 PM. They’ll all land at Scotsburn Street Reserve, Hawthorn.
Carthy thanked the participants for their understanding after the event was postponed for two weeks due to the late arrival of the Inflatable boats from overseas suppliers.
"We know this has inconvenienced people who bought a ticket, we are very sorry about it all. We’ve refunded every request that came through as soon as possible." ---
