Get ready to build your rafts for the 2025 Raft Regatta, great prizes up for grabs so band together, build and battle!

When: Friday, 18 April 
Time: Race starts at 9am, all team members to arrive by 7am for briefing. 
Where: O’Connell Wharf, Flinders Parade, Gladstone  
Email: events1@gladstonefestival.com for your application form

If you have any other questions regarding the construction of your raft, please give our friendly office staff a call on 07 4972 5111 or email events1@gladstonefestival.com

Great Raft Regatta Construction & Equipment FAQ’s

Is there a theme for the Great Raft Regatta?

We encourage all crews to come up with their own theme and decorations for their raft. It could be something that is in line with your business, pirates, carnival, zombies – anything goes! But of course, keep in mind that your raft should be suitable for a family-friendly audience.

Are there restrictions about what sort of raft I can build?

Let your imagination run wild with your raft building! There are no size restrictions for your raft, however please note that commercially produced craft will not be allowed in the Raft Regatta.

What equipment can we use on our rafts to ensure it moves?

No mechanical propulsion or motors are to be used on rafts. Paddles, poles or pedals must not be attached to the raft. Hand held paddles and poles must be the only means of propulsion. A rudder may be used to steer your raft around the course.

Do I need to attach anything to my raft?

You must attach 6 metres of towing line to your raft, and of course any decorations to make your raft stand out as much as possible!

Are there size restrictions for our crew?

Your crew must have a minimum of 2 persons and a maximum of 10 persons per raft.

Can we have participants under the age of 18 on our raft?

Yes, but they must have a completed and signed parental consent form, which is supplied with all application paperwork.

Other than our awesome costumes, do our crew members need to wear anything specific?

All crew members must be wearing life jackets, closed in shoes and safety goggles.

More information

Parking | Shuttle Bus | Events

Easter in Gladstone – Plan ahead for limited parking!

The CBD will be buzzing with excitement this long weekend – with so much happening, it's going to be very busy, and parking will be extremely limited.

To help everyone enjoy the celebrations stress-free, here’s what you need to know:

Parking is limited – we strongly encourage you to:

• Plan ahead and allow extra travel time
• Carpool, grab a lift or get dropped off if you can
• Park further out from the city centre and walk to one of the free shuttle bus pick-up points

Be considerate – If you're able to walk a little further, please leave closer parking spots for those who really need them, like people with disabilities, families with prams, or older residents.

Please note, parking on the grass is not allowed or available at the Gladstone Ports Corporation's Marina Parklands, Spinnaker Park or East Shores Parklands.

Let’s all do our part to keep the celebrations safe, enjoyable, and accessible for everyone!

Easter in Gladstone FREE Shuttle Bus Service

We encourage you to make use of the public parking locations around the city centre and then jump on-board the FREE shuttle bus operating on a quick 15 minute loop. The shuttle bus will take you directly to all the Easter in Gladstone fun and entertainment.

• Park or get dropped off nearby
• Wait for the shuttle bus at one of the pick-up/drop-off locations
• Ride the bus to your drop off location
• Hop off & experience Easter in Gladstone!

Please note, parking on the grass is not allowed or available at the Gladstone Ports Corporation's Marina Parklands, Spinnaker Park or East Shores Parklands.

Easter in Gladstone is back | 17 - 21 April 2025