Toronto Heritage Afloat

Heritage Afloat 2009 was held on the Toronto Foreshore over the Easter Long Weekend. This is a fantastic event that showcases beautifully restored and replica heritage designed boats. As well as the water craft, there are beautifully restored cars and motorcycles on display along with a whole range of other activities.  Often plagued with weather problems, the conditions this time could not have been better.  No rain, overcast skies and gentle winds, made both days very pleasant for the thousands who came.

It was a shame that Minister for the Hunter and Minister for Tourism, Jodi McKay, could not open the event.  She had been booked for months but things happen, particularly when you are as busy as Jodi.  It was a shame her office presumed to make alternative arrangements for someone else to open when that call was clearly up to the organisers.  Labor just can't help themselves, it's a mindset!  Anyhow, the political speech written for Jodi was still delivered and with only a little embarrassment caused, the opening went well - apart from my own faux pas when I said how wonderful it was to be here at Speers Point!  I couldn't believe I said it!

A highlight is definitely the Quick & Dirty Boat Building which gives all contestants the same materials and 2 hours to construct a boat that will later compete in a race on the lake.  There always interesting designs and techniques, but everyone has a great time.  I have competed twice myself but not for some years.  I should say that my results have been pretty dismal!

The guys who won the race with their canoe are apparently boat builders by trade.  They were pretty relaxed in their project and had plenty of time to finish the decorating.

The Toronto Chamber of Commerce and their band of volunteers deserve to be congratulated. This was a great event!

The TCC website is www.toronto.com.au or visit the Heritage Afloat website for more information.