Golden Oar 2026 Canberra

Golden Oar returns to Lake Burley Griffin for three days of racing, bringing leading Australian and international rowers to Canberra alongside club, development, masters and para crews.

Hosted at Black Mountain Peninsula, the 2026 regatta features more than $200,000 in prize money and an expanded program of racing across the weekend.

Three days. Three distances. One Golden Oar.

Golden Oar puts a different spin on the traditional regatta format.

Crews compete across a 1500m buoyed race, 3km time trial and 450m sprint, putting strategy, endurance and raw speed to the test. The program spans mixed doubles, quads and eights, with Open, Club, Under 19, Masters and PR3 competition on the water.

The 450m Mixed Double Sculls racing opens the event on Friday afternoon, followed by the 1500m racing on Saturday. Sunday brings the 3km time trial before the weekend reaches its finish with the 450m sprint finals.

And there is plenty happening beyond the start line.

Black Mountain Peninsula becomes a lakeside festival precinct for the weekend, with live music, local food and drink, markets and family activities alongside the racing. Entry to the festival precinct is free, making it easy for family, friends and rowing fans to settle in for a day beside the lake.

For the latest racing schedule, competitor information and event updates, visit the official Golden Oar website.

Stay close to the action at Novotel Canberra

After a day on the water or cheering from the shoreline, head back to Novotel Canberra for time in the heated indoor pool and spa, fit in a session at the gym, or settle in for dinner at First Edition Canberra. With the city centre outside your door and Black Mountain Peninsula less than 10 minutes away by car, you can keep race weekend simple.

Make Novotel Canberra your base for Golden Oar weekend and save 15% on your stay as part of our official accommodation partner offer.