The Brisbane to Gladstone Yacht Race

The Brisbane to Gladstone Yacht Race

Australia's Second Biggest Yacht Race

For over seventy years Queensland families have been travelling to the seaside to witness the start of the Brisbane to Gladstone Yacht Race, which is due to set sail at 12pm. With so many years under its belt it is one of the most notable of its type in the country, and an icon of Queensland.

The race covers 308 nautical miles and will feature a field of over 40 vessels - from all over Australia and overseas - all competing for honours.

The Brisbane to Gladstone Yacht Race was first held during Easter 1949. Of the seven vessels competing only two had radios. The other five were given carrier pigeons by Brisbane's Homing Pigeon Club. The yachts with pigeons released two each day to report their position.

Since then the Brisbane to Gladstone has grown in size and stature and has become a sporting icon for Queensland and Australia.

Did you know?

  • Rupert Murdoch has won the Brisbane to Gladstone twice. He achieved line honours in 1964 and 1965, and held the race record for twelve years from 1964 to 1976.
  • In 1972 the race was hit by Cyclone Emily with winds reaching up to 96 knots. Luckily there were no casualties but only 5 of 25 starter finished the race that year.
  • The race record was set in 2004 by Skandia, which averaged just over 15 knots to cross the finish line in 20hrs 24mins 50secs.

The Brisbane to Gladstone goes LIVE in 2021

In 2021 the Brisbane to Gladstone Yacht Race will be streamed live around the world at www.brisbanetogladstone.com.au.

What's on at Redcliffe Festival of Sails?

The event features a full program including three stages of entertainment, Beach Zone, and Kids Zone. All of this adds up to a full day of free fun and entertainment!