WHO needs to be on Sydney Harbour when you can be on the Hastings?
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
It's being billed as Port Macquarie's version of what they do five hours down the road and on Australia Day the Hastings River will be the place to be when the water will be full of action.
Sailability president Wayne Evans said the day would include a cruise past at the Town Green and down to Westport before they turn around and come back.
All three surf clubs from around the region, two dragon boat clubs and nippers will also participate.
Once that is complete, participants will cruise down the Hastings River to McInerney Park before witnessing ere they will then witness all Sailability vessels in full sail.
"We haven't copied off anyone else, but we thought we'd follow the Sydney lines and showcase some of our vessels," Mr Evans said. "There was a special request that the lead vessel of the cruise past would be the Marine Rescue boat with a fire hose.
"They wanted an extravaganza they'd be able to get at Oxford Street."
All vessels and crews will be made available through the help of Port Venture Cruises and Port Macquarie Cruise Adventures, as well as through sponsorship by local real estate businesses.
Port Macquarie mayor Peter Besseling was looking forward to the celebrations and said Sailability had always done a fantastic job.
"They have been fantastic patrons for Australia Day and it's great to see a celebration which include aspects of our lifestyle that involve the water and things happening on it," he said. "Previously we've had this fantastic body of water and nothing happening on it."
The cost to book a place on board one of the vessels is $20 for an adult or $10 for children under 12 years with all monies raised to be kept by Sailability and put towards future projects.
"All monies collected will be used for the construction of a proposed walkway and pontoon specifically designed for disability access to the Hastings River," Mr Evans said.
"It will then show males and females of all ages and abilities can enjoy the Hastings River."
For further information contact Port Macquarie Cruise Adventures on 0414 897 444 or Port Venture Cruises on 6583 3058.
paul.jobber@fairfaxmedia.com.au