Get ready to build it, float it, and race it the Recyclable Regatta is back in 2026. One of the festival’s most-loved events, the regatta brings together schools, community groups, tourism operators, and adventurous mates for a wild ride on the high seas (or at least the Airlie Beach foreshore).

Expect creative rafts, pirate costumes, and plenty of laughs as teams paddle their hand-built crafts — made entirely from recyclable materials — around the course and back to shore.

This year, we’d LOVE to see local businesses jump on board! It’s the perfect team-building challenge — build a raft, get creative with your branding, and TAKE ON YOUR COMPETITORS in a fun, light-hearted race on the water. Bragging rights (and great prizes) are up for grabs!

Who Can Enter? Everyone!

Gather your crew and join the fun! Whether you’re a school group, community club, tourism operator, or just a bunch of mates. There are great prizes up for grabs in each category. The Recyclable Regatta is open to all ages with four divisions:

✅ Kids 6–12
✅ Teens 13–17
✅ Adults 18+
✅ Local Businesses (friendly competition highly encouraged!)

Hey Mum & Dad – the same raft can be used in multiple divisions!

Raft Course – Airlie Beach foreshore

Race starts at 1:00 pm on the Airlie Beach foreshore.
Rafts will race around designated markers and return to shore, but it doesn’t finish there – the race is not over until all crew members run up the beach and cross the finish line together!

Raft & Race Rules

✅ Max raft size: 3m x 3m
✅ Max crew: 3 people per raft
✅ Must use recyclable materials only
✅ Life jackets are mandatory
✅ Raft must have a name clearly displayed (min. 12” lettering)
✅ Any type of paddle or oar may be used

How to Join the Fun

• A signed Consent Form is required for all participants
• Register below and start collecting your recyclable materials!

🎉 Let the challenge begin… Arrr!

Register now

Watch the Action from the Water!

Want the best seat in the house? Sit back, relax and experience the excitement of the Recyclable Regatta from the water aboard the Sundowner Spectator Vessel.

Cruise alongside the creative rafts, enjoying unbeatable views of the action while taking in the scenery. Whether you’re cheering on friends and family or simply soaking up one of the Great Barrier Reef Festival’s most entertaining events, this is the ultimate way to experience the regatta.

Seats are limited, so book early to secure your place on board.

• Meeting Time: 11:30 am
• Meeting Location: Coral Sea Marina – Northern Village, Meeting Point B
• Ticket Price: $5 per person