9 February 2021
More than 260 ADF personnel took part in the 183rd Royal Hobart Regatta, which is one of Tasmania’s largest events.
The Regatta was held from February 6-8, and this show of support further strengthened the ADF’s ties with the state.
Navy sailed the guided missile destroyer HMAS Hobart to her namesake city to act as a backdrop to the event, the RAAF Roulettes performed three aerobatic displays, a P8-A Poseidon conducted flypasts, and Navy and Army bands performed.
Navy Headquarters – Tasmania (NHQ-Tasmania) Commanding Officer Commander Andrew Wright said spectators were very receptive to Defence personnel and the organisation’s contribution to the Regatta.
“The NHQ-Tasmania team has contributed personnel to support the Defence Force Recruiting stand, Navy community engagement as well as various other aspects of the Regatta,” he said.
“Despite COVID-19, we are very pleased with the number of participants in all Regatta events.
“We had to adjust the way we did things with crowd restrictions, but I think we had a great mix of participation in events and support for this year’s Royal Hobart Regatta.
“We are very happy.”
Major David Bird led the Australian Army Band –Tasmania in its hour-long performance on the main stage at the Regatta showgrounds and said it was an honour to be involved in such an important grassroots event.
“Being able to once again carry out community engagement by participating in the Royal Hobart Regatta has been a fantastic start to 2021 for the Australian Army Band – Tasmania,” he said.
“To perform in front of so many people at this long-standing community event is a great way to showcase the talent and capabilities of the band and help strengthen the links between the ADF and the community.”
Despite COVID-19 crowd restrictions and the associated logistics challenges, Royal Hobart Regatta Association President David Skegg said the event was a success.
“We had to make some changes, like putting up a lot of extra fencing, but it has all worked out pretty well,” Mr Skegg said.
“Saturday morning was very popular. There were so many sails on the water. It has been fantastic."
Army Musician Jack Bachelor plays saxophone with the Australian Army Band - Tasmania during the Royal Hobart Regatta. Photo: Warrant Officer Class 2 Max Bree
