Published 13 March 2026
One of WA’s most historic regional rowing events is back for 2026 – and after record growth last year, it’s shaping up to be the biggest yet.
The Bunbury Big Boat Sprint Regatta returns to Leschenault Inlet on Saturday 18 April, bringing a full day of fast-paced sprint racing to one of Bunbury’s most stunning natural settings.
Now in its second year of partnership between Rowing WA and the City of Bunbury, the regatta has experienced remarkable growth – participation increased by over 60%, from 146 athletes in 2024 to 234 in 2025. That momentum is expected to continue in 2026, with increased support aimed at attracting even more metropolitan and regional clubs to compete.
As the only non-metropolitan regatta on the Rowing WA season calendar, the event puts Bunbury’s world-class waterways on display for competitors and spectators from across the State.
A full weekend of rowing
The regatta forms part of a broader weekend of racing, with the Bunbury Rowing Club’s Eaton Head Race taking place the following day on Sunday 19 April. The head race has also seen strong growth, with participation increasing by approximately 39% between 2024 and 2025.
With pennant points up for grabs at the Big Boat Sprint Regatta, clubs have even more reason to make the trip south and turn the weekend into a full rowing festival.
Visiting athletes, families and supporters are encouraged to extend their stay and explore everything Bunbury has to offer – from the coastline and dining precincts to the city’s vibrant arts and cultural scene.
A long history on the water
First recognised by the Rowing Association of Western Australia in 1930, the Bunbury Regatta has been a highlight of the WA rowing calendar for almost a century. Formerly known as the Easter Regatta, it remains one of the State’s most enduring regional sporting events – and continues to evolve to meet the needs of today’s rowing community.
What you need to know
- What: Bunbury Big Boat Sprint Regatta
- When: Saturday 18 April 2026
- Where: Leschenault Inlet, Bunbury
- Cost: Free for spectators
- Racing: Sprint format – fast, exciting and great to watch from the shore
Mayor Jaysen Miguel says last year’s regatta grew by sixty percent – that tells you everything about the quality of this event and what Bunbury’s waterways have to offer.
“We want visiting crews and their families to make a weekend of it and experience the best of our city while they're here.”
For more information about the Bunbury Big Boat Sprint Regatta, visit Rowing WA.