Visitors to the Erskine River Swing Bridge at Lorne on the last
Saturday of the April school holidays might be surprised to hear
cries of about ship, all hands ahoy and starboard, when Love Lorne
hosts the inaugural Erskine River Model Boat Regatta.
The Erskine River, normally a sea of paddle boats, seagulls and
holiday makers will be transformed into a real life sailing and
motor boat regatta with scores of meticulously crafted model boats
vying for line honours.
This event was inspired by the Great Lakes Model Boat Regatta in
Michigan USA and by aspirations of the Lorne community to
rediscover a childhood hobby lost to digitalised indoor pursuits. A
true spectacle on Lorne's Erskine River - get competitive,
participate for fun or just watch and admire as boats adorn the
water.
You don't need your boat to join in the fun. Visitors can try
their hand at sailing any of the pond boats which have been
generously loaned for the day byLove Lorne. Exhibition sails will
also be held throughout the day by the Geelong Model Boat Club and
RC World.
Aimed at the whole family, young and old, with or without
boating experience, the day will be a colourful display of sailing
and power boat races. Races will feature a maximum of four
boats only and will be divided into sailing and power, and by age
group, under 10 years, 10-18 years and over 18 years.
Safety comes first, even with model boats, with Club Lorne
assisting on the water with kayaks, and Love Lorne donating
volunteers for the day to ensure smooth sailing all round.
At the conclusion of racing, presentations will be made at the
Cuda Bar from 5.30 to 7pm and guests are invited to enjoy a
celebratory drink or even stay for dinner with the kids to reflect
on the day's activities.
Entry into the regatta is $5. Registration is at the Swing
Bridge Café on the day or email in advance to info@lovelorne.com.
First in best dressed!