Nick Duigan, Minister for Sports and Events
Madeleine Ogilvie, Minister for the Arts and Heritage
A ship built nearly 130 years ago and that has been lovingly restored is at the centre of the upcoming Australian Wooden Boat Festival.
Minister for Sports and Events, Nick Duigan said the popular festival is set to grace Hobart’s waterfront with another jam-packed program.
“The 2025 festival theme is ‘The Pacific’ and is a wonderful celebration of the cultures and histories of our close neighbours New Zealand and the Pacific region,” Minister Duigan said.
“And it’s great to see the Te Uira which was originally built in New Zealand in 1896 and has now been magnificently restored for the festival.”
The biennial festival will offer on-water races, rallies and parades, exhibitions, Tasmanian food and beverage, and family-friendly activities, along with special events such as the Waitangi Day Hangi.
“The festival has long been an iconic event in Tasmania’s summer calendar, nationally and internationally and is also an important driver of tourism and local community engagement,” Minister Duigan said.
“The Tasmanian Government is proud to have supported the Australian Wooden Boat Festival since it began in 1994, and we are supporting the festival delivery with a total of $3.15 million through to 2027.
Minister for the Arts and Heritage, Madeleine Ogilvie, said the Festival is an important celebration of our maritime heritage.
“The Australian Wooden Boat Festival is all about showcasing the incredible craftsmanship that comes with building and restoring wooden boats,” Minister Ogilvie said.
“The festival brings together the largest collection of wooden boats in the southern hemisphere.
“We know how important it is that Tasmanians can connect and celebrate our rich heritage at organised events, which is what our 2030 Strong Plan for Tasmania’s Future is all about.
“I welcome the festival’s return to Hobart’s historic waterfront and encourage all Tasmanians to come down and experience the excellent program next year.”
The 2025 Australian Wooden Boat Festival will run from 7–10 February.
Learn more at australianwoodenboatfestival.com.au
