The Royal Hobart Regatta was started in 1838 by
the then Governor of Tasmania, Sir John Franklin.
This day was declared a public holiday and consisted of friendly competition between local sailors and members of the merchant navy.
Royal Hobart Regatta holiday is now one of the oldest continuing public holidays in Australia.
Free food and beer was given to the settlers who came to watch the aquatic competition.
The tradition of free entry has remained to this day and the cost of running the regatta is now covered by sponsorship and to a lesser extent government grants.
The entire Derwent River is given over to the Regatta for the three days of the festival.
This day was declared a public holiday and consisted of friendly competition between local sailors and members of the merchant navy.
Royal Hobart Regatta holiday is now one of the oldest continuing public holidays in Australia.
Free food and beer was given to the settlers who came to watch the aquatic competition.
The tradition of free entry has remained to this day and the cost of running the regatta is now covered by sponsorship and to a lesser extent government grants.
The entire Derwent River is given over to the Regatta for the three days of the festival.
