Alexandrina Council, Media Release, 8 April 2023
We are thrilled to announce one of the SA Wooden Boat Festival’s most iconic vessels, the PS Oscar W is back on the water this week and just in time for the launch of the festival’s official program.
The final count-down is on towards the 29-30 April South Australian Wooden Boat Festival (SAWBF) weekend.
The Festival will showcase some of the most stunning wooden boats in the country, with over 100 boats registered; from yachts and putputs, to large open boats and paddle steamers, and it’s all set to take place on Hindmarsh Island’s Alexandrina Cove.
The PS Oscar W was impacted by the Murray River high river flows, the Friends of the PS Oscar W team alongside the maintenance team and Council staff have worked tirelessly to ensure that the vessel is ready for this year’s Festival.
The PS Oscar W will be moored and cruising from the Goolwa Wharf, and visitors will have the opportunity to experience this iconic vessel during scheduled cruises, book tickets online now to avoid disappointment via the Festival website.
Visitors can learn about this magnificent vessel and the story of PS Oscar W biannual restoration works via a short film, visit https://bit.ly/3HHnPct Alexandrina Council, Mayor Keith Parkes said “we are so pleased to see the PS Oscar W back on the water, and in perfect timing for the lead up to the SAWBF weekend as an integral part of the Festival, she has been a crowd favourite for years.
I encourage you to come to the river and enjoy the SAWBF weekend 28-30 April or keep an eye out for our food, wine and experience events taking place across the month of April,” he said.
The Festival is a free two day event open to public. Program highlights include loads of activities on land including entertainment by the River Rats and Navy band, fabulous food and beverages from Port Elliot to Langhorne Creek, local exhibitors, and the much-loved boat building competition. A highlight for everyone is the opportunity to explore the wooden boats moored at the marina and meet the boats owners. There is ample parking and easy access to the waterfront marina festival location on Hindmarsh Island. An event not to be missed.
Mark the Festival weekend in your diary and come and celebrate the beauty and craftsmanship of wooden boats in the historic River Port of Goolwa. Families and visitors will be able to enjoy a range of activities and events, including live music, food stalls, and interactive workshops. This year’s event promises to be a unique festival with something for everyone to enjoy.
For further information and two view the festival program, please visit the festival website www.sawoodenboatfestival.com.au/program.
