The “Moreton Bay Classic” is a spectacular classic boat regatta held annually in Moreton Bay — culminating with a gathering of the boating community on Peel Island. Open to all, it has truly become “The Race that Stops The Bay”.

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HISTORY

The Moreton Bay Classic was started by the two crews from the fine craft Mohokoi and South Pacific 2 in 2022, after some good hearted banter around who had the faster classic boat. A decision was made to settle the question with a race.

With the challenge thrown down on social media, the conversation gathered an enthusiastic audience; the concept gathered steam, and soon enough, it had evolved into a larger idea: to get classic boats out of the marina and onto Moreton Bay — en masse — for a “race”, together.

The response from the classic boat community was tremendous, with a gob smacking turn-out. With the weather gods turning on a spectacular Moreton Bay Day, the spectacle of classic boats streaming across the Bay, and the fun that followed — a tradition was born. Now cemented as a fixture on the SE QLD boating calendar, the Moreton Bay Classic celebrates what is special about boating on the Bay, allowing classic boat owners to show off their craft, and enthusiasts to appreciate them. Two trophies are contested, paying tribute to legends, Ron Jenyns and Bill Wright (see more below).

The event is run by a group of mates for the benefit of the Moreton Bay boating community. They encourage all to enter and enjoy the festivities.

2022

THE INAUGURAL EVENT

Official film of the first event held in 2022, which introduced the “Ron Jenyns” Trophy – crafted by Ian Eastgate — for the handicap “winner”, paying tribute to Ron’s contribution to Australian boating. Produced by Coastwatch & Australia’s Classic Boats with Gamerod Media.

SOUTH PACIFIC II | Episode 3

“A Moreton Bay Classic”

2023

2023 saw the introduction of the Bill Wright Trophy – in recognition of Bill’s contribution to boat design, at Norman R. Wright & Sons. The Trophy is awarded to “First Past the Post” and fittingly was won by “Dolphin II” – a spectacular Norman R. Wright launch. This profile featurette produced by Coastwatch.

2024

In 2024, the Race that Stops the Bay took on a different complexion, with the cameo appearance of arguably Australia’s most famous gameboat, the Pleysier built Pannawonica. In a quick field, Panna claimed first past the post – befitting her history of famously navigating from Western Australia to Cairns annually through heavy seas in record time. Produced by Coastwatch.