Rowing takes centre stage in the capital

Canberra is set to play host to a major new event on Australia’s sporting calendar, with the Red Shed and Rowing Australia today unveiling The Golden Oar—a two-day rowing regatta and lakeside festival to be staged on the shores of Lake Burley Griffin this November.

Billed as a global first, The Golden Oar will bring together top rowing talent from across the country and internationally to compete in a dynamic mixed sculling format, while spectators take in the action from a vibrant waterfront precinct activated with live music, food, drinks and entertainment.

Taking place across the weekend of Saturday 1 and Sunday 2 November 2025, The Golden Oar is modelled on the world’s most iconic rowing festivals, including the Henley Royal Regatta, the Lucerne Regatta and the Head of the Charles, and aims to elevate rowing’s presence in Australia through high-impact competition and a celebratory festival atmosphere.

Unique to The Golden Oar is its all-inclusive mixed format, with categories including:

• Open Mixed Quad Sculls
• Under 19 Mixed Coxed Quad Sculls
• PR3 Mixed Double Sculls
• Masters Mixed Quad Sculls.

The racing itself will unfold across three thrilling formats:

• 3km time trial along the lake’s scenic southwestern shores
• 1500m side-by-side showdown on a buoyed course
• High-stakes sprint finale finishing directly in front of a Black Mountain Peninsula festival hub.

Competitors will vie for $100,000 in prize money, ensuring top-tier participation from across the rowing community.

The on-water excitement will be matched by a lakeside festival that will see Black Mountain Peninsula come alive with performances, local food and beverage stalls, and all-day opportunities to experience the regatta from the best seat in the house – right at the finish line.

“The Golden Oar isn’t just another rowing regatta, it’s a new kind of sporting experience for Canberra,” said John Gasson, President and CEO of Red Shed Inc.

“We’re combining elite racing with an open, inclusive atmosphere that invites everyone to be part of something memorable on and off the water.”

As part of its broader mission, the event will champion diversity and community participation in sport. Hosted by Red Shed, a not-for-profit rowing club known for its inclusive programs, the event will serve as a platform for emerging and para-athletes, while reinvesting proceeds into grassroots initiatives.

“We’re creating a celebration that reflects everything we love about rowing—skill, spirit, and a strong sense of community,” said Sarah Cook, CEO of Rowing Australia.

“With Lake Burley Griffin as our stage and a festival backdrop, The Golden Oar is set to become one of the standout moments on the Australian sporting calendar.”