Onslow Boat Regatta returns as Australia Day highlight

The Onslow foreshore came alive on Australia Day as the 2026 Onslow Boat Regatta brought the community together for a day of racing, beach games and celebration.

The annual event has quickly become a much-loved fixture on the local calendar, following its revival last year after a long absence.

Shire of Ashburton director of community development Chantelle McGurk said strong community turnout and enthusiastic participation highlighted the regatta’s growing place as a signature Australia Day event in Onslow.

“The regatta has become a much-loved event in Onslow, bringing people together to celebrate months of hard work as teams race the rafts they’ve built and compete to be crowned winners,” she said.

“After many years without a community regatta, the event was proudly bought back in 2025, reigniting a long-held local tradition.

“Its return was welcomed, and it has quickly re-established itself as an anticipated annual event.

“With beach games and activities for all ages, it was a wonderful day to see the town beat the heat and come together to celebrate.”

Six boats were entered in the regatta, with three teams racing on the day.

Following the on-water action, the festivities continued with boat-to-beach games and activities for all ages.

This year’s winners were:

Overall winners and best-dressed boat: Kool Runnings

Best-looking boat: Smashed Crab 2

Fan favourite: The Preverell Kids