We all know Australians enjoy a beer, but what do they do with all those empty cans? Many of them make their way to The Outback for Darwin’s annual Beer Can Regatta.
This madcap event sees its participants making boats from empty beer cans.
All boats must pass tests for seaworthiness before setting sail in July or August. But this is no ordinary race. Once the crews are on the water they attempt to do away with the competition in mock battles. Some of the largest boats resemble Viking ships with their fire hoses and weapons, which are always kept under wraps until the big day. While the beer boats are an adults-only affair, children are invited to take part in their own soft drink can vessels.
Since the first event in 1974, the Beer Can Regatta has grown to quite a spectacle with musical performances, market stalls, tug-of-war competitions, a thong-throwing contest (that’s the footwear, not the under garments), and the Henley-on-Mindil race all part of the fun. The latter sees competitors running bottomless boats around like the cars in The Flintstones!
The 2010 event will be held on August 8, so get yourself to Darwin’s Mindil Beach and enjoy the craziness! Or perhaps you could get creative and enter your own beer can boat. All funds raised benefit Darwin-based charities.
