Crowds flock to A.P.S. Regatta (Heads of the River)
Over 14,000 people are expected to attend next weekend's APS Heads of the River rowing regatta which has been successfully hosted by Nagambie since 2001. On Saturday 28 March 2009 the 142nd Boys Head of the River and the 29th Girls Head of the River will be decided at the Nagambie Lakes Regatta Centre.
This year 1359 students from the eleven Associated Public Schools will participate in what is officially known as The APS Regatta (Heads of the River).
Girls Head of the River:
This year's Head of the River promises some tight racing in the Girls First VIII division. Geelong Grammar School are firm favourite to take out the Geelong Ladies Challenge Cup, having dominated the APS field throughout the season.
You can expect fierce competition from Wesley College and Geelong College for second place based on previous performances, although Carey Grammar, Caulfield Grammar and Haileybury (the rapid improver of the last two weeks) are all within striking distance. Whatever the outcome, the standard of competition at this level is very high.
Boys Head of the River:
The 2009 Head of the River will see an extraordinary Boys First VIII field that boasts the two top school boy VIII's in Australia fighting it out for the Fairbairn Challenge Cup.
At the recent Australian National Rowing Championships in Tasmania, Melbourne Grammar School finished first, continuing a two year domin
ance by Victorian schools over the long held NSW dominance of the event.
With strong performances from St Kevin's College, Scotch College, Geelong Grammar School and Haileybury College, spectators can expect a final that should feature these crews, with Wesley College, Xavier College and Brighton Grammar School outside chances to make up the final berth in the A final.As always though, the strength of Carey Grammar, Caulfield Grammar and Geelong College should not be underestimated, with the result that both A and B finals will be hotly contested.
Times:Friday 27 March: Heats 5.00pm - 5.30pm (Boys 1st and 2nd Eights)
Saturday 28 March: Heats 9.15 am - 10.30 am Finals 1000m and 2000m Crews
Girls Head of the River 3.10 pm
Boys Head of the River 3.20pm
Strathbogie Shire Council, Mayor Howard Myers said, "The APS Regatta is the biggest event held in the shire. It's great, it's a win, win for everyone, local businesses benefit, the accommodation providers are fully booked which in turn increases employment."
Councillor Debra Swan adds "It's an event where all the community gets involved, local primary schools, service clubs, sporting clubs they're all there either raising money for the community or volunteering their time."
Director, Strategic and Community Development, Steve Crawcour said "The APS Regatta brings thousands of people to the area. It's a wonderful day out for the whole family to enjoy in a festive, competitive atmosphere. We hope people will also take advantage of the wonderful wineries and other local attractions and stay for a few days, or return again in the future to savour all the region has to offer."
The event will be held this Saturday 28 March at the Nagambie Lakes Regatta Centre.
Cost: Entry $12; Entry $12 and children in APS school uniform enter free. Programs $5.
Free car parking will be available adjacent to the venue in the new Loddings Carpark.
A free shuttle bus will again run throughout the day from High Street Nagambie to the main pedestrian entrance at Regatta Centre on the half hour and will also meet trains at the Nagambie station.
For more information contact Marli Kelly 0409 410 178