Yachtsman’s Long Lunch raises $13K for not-for-profit organisation

Despite the wet weather, more than 3000 people celebrated the belated Brisbane to Gladstone events on the weekend.

Despite the wet weather, more than 3000 people celebrated the belated Brisbane to Gladstone events on the weekend. Picture: Cath Mckewen, Kate Danby and Julie Ware at the 2019 Gladstone Harbour Festival‘s inaugural line party.

The wet weather did not dampen any spirits at the weekend, as 3000 people turned out to celebrate belated Brisbane to Gladstone events.

The Ship and Sail Yachtman’s Long Lunch, Australia Pacific Line Crossing Party and Gladstone Fish Market Seafood Festival were finally held after Covid restrictions postponed the events last Easter.

Events Queensland director Matthew Turich said the Brisbane to Gladstone events were hailed a success despite challenges faced over the past 18 months.

“Inclement weather forecasts always pose a potential impediment to attendance, however, the Gladstone community rallied behind the event and turned out in support,” Mr Turich said.

Mr Turich said the Yachtsman’s Long Lunch raised $13,000 for Young Care Australia and an art piece by Laura Crane was sold for $5000.

He said other high points of the day included the Line Crossing Party’s vibrant atmosphere, and the 10 stalls on offer at the Seafood Festival.

“The Australia Pacific Line Crossing Party provided a vibrant atmosphere, with celebrations enjoyed well into the night and the Gladstone Fish Market Seafood Festival attracted a plethora of families, with local seafood, kids activities and the prawn peeling competition all high points of the day,” he said.

Gladstone Regional Council said while it was unfortunate the events were impacted earlier this year, it was looking forward to the 74th Brisbane to Gladstone Yacht Race on April 15, 2022.

“Unfortunately the past two Easter in Gladstone weekends have been impacted by Covid-19 restrictions, causing the cancellation of Brisbane to Gladstone (B2G) Village events in 2020 and the postponement of B2G Village events in 2021,” a spokesman said.

“We’re most definitely looking forward to next year’s festivities.”