The Outback Sprints – Barcaldine
Saturday 4 October 2025 – Day 1 of the Outback Regatta Weekend
We’re kicking off the Outback Regatta weekend with a fast, fierce, and fun day of sprint racing at the stunning Barcaldine Rec Park.
The Outback Sprints brings Henley-style racing to the heart of Queensland – side-by-side 750m sprints, two boats at a time, in knockout and duel formats that guarantee excitement from start to finish.
Regatta Format
Time Trial
The day begins with a single-boat time trial, giving every crew the chance to set a seed time. These times determine your ranking and progression into the two feature events.
Event 1: The Outback Duel
A classic showdown. Crews are seeded based on the time trial and adjusted using masters handicaps. The two fastest crews face off for the Outback Duel Cup.
Event 2: The Outback Gift
Inspired by the Stawell Gift, this knockout-style event uses a unique performance handicap system. Your handicap is calculated from your average time across your previous two races — no age-based adjustments here!
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Penalties apply if you beat your handicap time.
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Wildcards may offer a second shot at glory.
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Every crew is guaranteed two races.
Crew Categories
All regatta races are eights only (no small boats).
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School-age, Open, and Masters crews welcome
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Men’s, Women’s and Mixed crews
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Octa-Eights welcome
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Club Orphans (individuals or small groups) are encouraged to register — we’ll help match you into crews!
Where
Barcaldine Rec Park, a purpose-built rowing lake with ample space for crews and spectators alike.
Getting There
Come by car, join the convoy from the coast, take a train or fly in. Book early.
Register for the Convoy on our website event page. Full event itinerary, route map, and suggested accommodation stops in towns like Rockhampton, Emerald, and Barcaldine are published and messaged to those who register.
Register
Don't have a crew, don't worry! Register your interest as an Orphan on this page.
Race & Event registrations will open end July for full crews.
Need a boat? We can help arrange rental eights. Register your requirements on this page.
Join us for head-to-head excitement and big Outback energy!
