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 & 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

Raft Course – Airlie Beach foreshore

Race starts at 8:30 AM 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!

Allowed Raft Materials:

✅ Milk, juice, soft drink bottles
✅ Plastic drums
✅ Bamboo poles

❌ Not Allowed:

🚫 Foam insulation (e.g. Coolite)
🚫 Boat parts, canoes, or kayaks
🚫 Any material that could pollute the ocean
🚫 Paints or coatings that may leach contaminants

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