Titanic takes line honours as Wellington Barrel Tub Regatta returns

Wellington’s progress association and hotel have brought back a colourful annual tradition in aid of local projects and the Leukaemia Foundation.

Glenn Power, Peri Strathearn

Mar 4, 2024 — 3 min read

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Holiday home neighbours Nick Christou and Jeff Lane warm up before their first heat at the Wellington Barrel Tub Regatta. Photo: Glenn Power.

After a decade-long break and due to popular demand, the Wellington Progress Association’s annual fundraiser, the Welly Barrel Tub Regatta, has made a positive splash as another successful community event.

The event was held on Sunday on the lush lawns of the town’s iconic hotel, with part proceeds from the event being donated to the Leukemia Foundation.

Spectators and contestants from near and far were welcomed with local home-made food and plenty of refreshments upon arrival.

Ready to race are leading seaman Dave Roach, of Marden, leading seaman Stewart Tregoning, of Loxton, marine engineer Will Submariner, of Happy Valley, and marine fabricator John Rivet-Martin, of St Peters; Sam Berry and Jackson Smart, of Hillcrest; and Joslyn and Jacob Stuart, of Golden Grove. Photos: Glenn Power.

Officials scrutinised competitors’ entries for river-worthiness and judged their vessels on their original creative approaches.

After quickly being grouped into heats, the 15 competitors gathered at the pub jetty at about 10.30am.

Officials double-checked that every vessel had at least two 20- and two 200-litre tubs, before an air horn sounded and the first of many groups took to the water to battle it out for honours.