36 Years Of Scintillating Sailing!

The sailing community from around the country is flocking to the Whitsundays this week with the 36th Airlie Beach Race Week setting sail today.

With over 150 yachts across multiple divisions registered for the event, it is expected that over 1000 skippers and crew will be attending the regatta which promises to be just as much fun onshore as it is out on the water.

Famed for its vibrant social scene and competitive camaraderie, Airlie Beach Race Week is an event the whole town can’t help but get caught up in.

Hosted by the Whitsunday Sailing Club, everyone is invited to watch the race commence on Friday morning and see the exciting moment all the yachts jostle for position before they set course.

That evening, Whitsunday Regional Council will host a pirate party at the Friday evening movies at the Foreshore, with entertainers and face painting.

This is an opportunity for families to join in on the festivities with a pirate party, movies and face painting.

The social life spreads right along the coast however, with the Festival Village on the Whitsunday Sailing Club lawns a focal point to the activities each afternoon from 2.00pm and into the evening.

Here you will find live music, food trucks, dancing and merriment.

This centre-stage location will also host the nightly awards ceremony where everyone can follow along and see who is winning each category following the race that day.

The spirit of sailing and the camaraderie of the competition are just some of the delights the week offers.

Another highlight this year, which adds a unique cultural element to the event, is the Creative Connections Art Exhibition and the Art Workshops.

Festival attendees are invited to browse the exhibition and can also enjoy learning different techniques at the workshops hosted by talented artists which can be booked now on the Creative Connections website.

For those looking for a leisurely afternoon of indulgence, another highlight is the Shoreside Long Lunch, canapes followed by a three-course extravaganza that promises to delight the senses.

The event concludes next Thursday when the whole town is invited along to witness the final award ceremony and celebrate the winners in each category.

There will also be a fireworks display for all to enjoy.

Whether you are sailor, a spectator or someone who simply loves an invigorating community event – the Airlie Beach Race Week is a sparkling jewel in the Whitsundays crown and a dynamic sporting event that is admired across the country.

‍