Alexandrina Council, Media Release, 24 April 2023
The countdown is on for the 2023 South Australian Wooden Boat Festival (SAWBF), which is set to take place this weekend (29-30 April).
Thanks to major sponsors Coorong Quays, this year’s festival will be held at Hindmarsh Island’s – Alexandrina Cove, providing visitors with front-row seats to the action. To help visitors get around, a free festival shuttle bus will operate on a 30-minute loop cycle, transporting visitors between the Goolwa Wharf Precinct and Coorong Quays on both festival days.
The festival promises to be a spectacular event, showcasing some of the most exquisite wooden boats in the country. More than 130 boats of various types, including yachts, putt putts, large open boats, and paddle steamers, have been registered for the festival, providing visitors with a unique opportunity to explore and admire these beautiful vessels moored at the marina, as well as meet their owners.
Don’t miss your chance to experience the iconic PS Oscar W during the festival! The historic vessel will be moored and cruising from the Goolwa Wharf, providing visitors with an unforgettable experience on the water. Scheduled cruises are available, and tickets can be booked online through the festival website to avoid disappointment. Be sure to book your tickets in advance to secure your spot and enjoy a ride on this historic vessel.
In addition to the boat displays, the festival will feature a wide range of children’s activities, including face painting, model boat displays, radio-controlled boats, Storm Boy screenings at Centenary Hall, Pirate Trail, and roving circus demonstrations. Entertainment will include local favourites such as the River Rats and the Australian Navy band, creating a lively atmosphere for all attendees.
Foodies will not be disappointed, as the festival will have an array of fabulous food and beverages on offer from local producers, including Goolwa Beach Pizza, Fleurieu Ice Cream, Port Elliot Coffee, Langhorne Creek Wine & Beer, Encounter Bay Beer, and more! There will be something to tantalize everyone’s taste buds.
Art lovers will be treated to the festival’s Art Trail, featuring sea and river exhibitions from Fleurieu Artists, including The Strand Gallery, South Coast Regional Arts Centre, Artworx Gallery, Art @ Goolwa, Twin Pines Gallery, Stables & Studios, Goolwa, John Lacey’s Studio & Green Tank Gallery, Mt. Compass, and Goolwa Visual Arts Group at Goolwa Regatta Yacht Club.
Visitors can also enjoy the festival’s Food, Wine & Experience Program, which features local tastings, tours, and more. Live music will be playing at 90 Mile Wine and Murray Delta Juke Joint in the evenings, providing a lively end to a day of festival activities.
“The local businesses are playing a huge role to wave the regional flag and showcase our amazing food, art, culture, and heritage we are so proud and privileged to boast here on the Fleurieu,” says Mayor Parkes.
With the festival’s new location at Alexandrina Cove, visitors can expect a vibrant and exciting atmosphere. The festival is proudly supported by South Australian Tourism Commission and Northpoint Toyota and is free to everyone, offering a chance to celebrate Goolwa’s rich maritime history. For more information about the festival program, please visit the festival website at www.sawoodenboatfestival.com.au.
