Eyes cast on the horizon, Gladstone Region Mayor Matt Burnett is on the countdown to one of the region’s biggest celebrations.

“Gladstone is the place to be this Easter, serving up perfect weather, great food and plenty of events,” Councillor Burnett said.

“From the annual Gladstone Harbour Festival, the 71st Brisbane to Gladstone Yacht Race, to the inaugural Brisbane to Gladstone Village, there really is something for everyone.”

Entering its 57th year, the Gladstone Harbour Festival will bring together the young and the young-at-heart for non-stop entertainment from Wednesday 17 April to Sunday 21 April. 

Gladstone Regional Council is a proud major sponsor of this well-loved event and encourages the community to enjoy the program the Gladstone Festivals & Events committee have created. 

“From the old family favourites including the Great Raft Regatta, Street Parade and Talent Quest to GRC's Spectacular Saturday event, fireworks and carnival type-atmosphere, there’s so much on offer,” Cr Burnett said. 

Hand-in-hand with the festival, the region also hosts the highest profile Easter weekend sporting event, the 71st Brisbane to Gladstone (B2G) Yacht Race. 

“One of the oldest yachting races in Australia, it has become a Queensland icon, and you can follow the race action as it is live-streamed across the world,” he said.

This year will also see a new precinct to help welcome the boats as they enter the harbour, with the Brisbane to Gladstone Village raising its sail for the first time.

“The Brisbane to Gladstone Village is an event not to be missed and will showcase Gladstone as a holiday destination with high quality events and attractions,” he said. 

“The Village will include The Yachtsman’s Long Lunch, the Village Seafood Festival and the Line Crossing Party, all great new ways to help us celebrate a beautiful Easter in Gladstone.”

Held on Friday 19 April, the Yachtsman’s Long Lunch will feature guest speakers and a three-course meal paired with a selection of fine wine and beer.

A family event on Saturday 20 April, the Village Seafood Festival will include live music, numerous displays, licensed bars and an array of seafood. Entry is free for kids under 18.

“And to cap-off a great week, the Line Crossing Party will celebrate yachts crossing the finish line with tasty food, a licensed bar and headline acts,” he said.

Tickets for the Brisbane to Gladstone Village events are on sale and can be purchased through the Gladstone Entertainment Convention Centre.

For more information on the 2019 Gladstone Harbour Festival, click here.

For more information on the B2G Yacht Race, click here.