Over the weekend Rowing ACT ran the Independent Schools Rowing Association Regatta with spectators based at Weston Park, rather than the traditional Lady Denman Drive finish area. The very successful regatta indisputably demonstrated why Weston Park is superior for spectators over the weekend. The shelter from wind at Weston Park provided balmy T-shirt wearing conditions for spectators, while officials at the finish wore snow apparel to minimise the wind chill. Shelter from the sun under the trees for both competitors and spectators is also an advantage of Weston Park, with competitors less likely to come away sunburned.
Significant other advantages of the Weston Park site were also clearly demonstrated compared to past big ISRA regattas. The site was big enough to accommodate spectators, competitors, boat trailers and boats, and that there was separation of these groups, such that accidents were less likely than at the much smaller Lady Denman Drive. Parking at Weston Park was conveniently close, plentiful and not breaking ACT laws. There were no issues regarding boats and rowers clogging up bike paths, or confrontations with cyclists annoyed with rowers and spectators on the path.
Spectators also avoided the potential biggest catastrophe regarding the Lady Denman site on Sunday morning, when road access was closed for a Pedal Power event. ISRA were doubtless relieved that they did not have to somehow manage this major conflict, which would have doubtless soured the perceptions of inter-state visitors. The Association understands that there was only four days notification of closure of Lady Denman Drive. It is not at all clear to Rowing ACT how spectators would have been able to access the finish area during this road closure.
Rowing ACT is of the opinion that its future spectator base for regattas will be in Weston Park. It provides better facilities, viewing of races and ambience than the Lady Denman Drive site.
I thank James Hammond, our BROS and all our volunteers for their excellent effort.