SA Wooden Boat Festival

The first Wooden Boat Festival was held in Goolwa in 1989, and is a biennial event. As the name suggests, only wooden boats are eligible to enter the competitions, and this provides the spectators with a touch of yesteryear. Paddle steamers, yachts, cruisers of many classes and even built on the spot canoes or rafts compete, and all are made from wood.

The site for the festival is on the 100 year old plus wharf at Goolwa and is claimed to be the only place possibly in the world, where both steam powered boats and steam trains still operate side by side.

2013 SA Wooden Boat Festival Program(4755 kb)

2013 SA Wooden Boat Festival Newsletter

Some of the features of the festival include :

Paddle Steamer Races

Paddle Wheelers from the PS Oscar W, (over 100 years of age), to more modern boats will compete in races to win the title of "Fastest of the Festival"

Rough and Ready Competition

Competitors are given a couple of sheets of ply, some timber, wire, sikaflex, nails and screws and are expected to build a boat that floats.

Food, Wine & Entertainment

Local restaurants and wineries have stands in the dining marquee presenting fabulous produce while a range of bands provide entertainment.

Children's Marquee

Featuring : cardboard and wooden models, art projects and activities for children up to 12.

Fairy Light Procession

On the Saturday evening, combined with a spectacular fireworks display, there will be many boats lighting up the river with fairy lights. Boats dress their rigging with lights which will reflect in the water for a magical effect.

Concours 'd Elegance

The fashion parade of the Festival where boats are judged on quality of finish, authenticity and quality of restoration.