Convicts & Colonials: Commemoration

Commemorating the foundation of New South Wales
In Moreton Bay the foundation of the colony of New South Wales was commemorated by an event known as the Brisbane Regatta. On Saturday, 26th December 1846 the Regatta was run between North and South Brisbane and was comprised of five races. The following year The Moreton Bay Courier reported that:

The aquatic amateurs and the inhabitants of Brisbane generally appeared to take great interest in the day's proceedings. The settlement never looked gayer, and the banks of the river were crowded with spectators. The weather was exceedingly favourable for the boat races. The Experiment steamer moored in the middle of the stream, and gaily decorated with flags, served as the flagship on the occasion. On board this vessel a numerous party, including those who had the superintendence of the day's proceedings, assembled to witness the sports. Music, too, was not wanting to animate the scene. 

In 1848, the date of the race changed to 26 January and nine races were held. Spectator numbers were down as it was a very hot day. The shops were closed and boats were adorned with streamers "that danced upon the surface our beautiful river".