Rowing Australia and the ACT Government are partnering to bring back the Australian Masters Rowing Championships to Canberra for the first time in more than a decade.
The Championships will bring more than 3,300 visitors to Canberra for an average of 4-nights, and generate an estimated direct economic impact of $5.8 million through demand for accommodation, hospitality and tourism activity.
This investment reinforces Canberra’s strong reputation as a host of national sporting events. The Australian Masters Rowing Championships are a major fixture on the domestic rowing calendar, bringing together athletes, officials and supporters from across the country to compete on Lake Burley Griffin.
The expansion of the ACT Government’s Major Event Fund in the most recent budget has secured the Championships and strengthened Canberra’s year-round program of sporting events.
Securing the Australian Masters Rowing Championships builds on the success of last year’s Australian Masters Games, which also delivered a significant economic impact for the Territory. The Games generated almost $9.7 million in direct visitor expenditure and more than $11.9 million in total economic activity.
Further details about the event, including dates and program information, will be announced in due course.
Quote from Chief Minister Andrew Barr:
“The Australian Masters Rowing Championships brings athletes from across the country to Canberra, showcasing our city and delivering real economic benefits for our local economy.
“Major events drive visitation, support local jobs and back businesses across hospitality, tourism and retail. They also provide opportunities for Canberrans to get involved, whether that’s competing, volunteering or cheering from the sidelines.
“Events of this scale leave a lasting legacy, strengthening Canberra’s reputation as a premier destination for national sporting competitions while supporting the continued growth of rowing in the ACT. We look forward to welcoming competitors, officials and visitors to experience everything our city has to offer in 2027.”
Quote from Sarah Cook OLY, Rowing Australia Chief Executive Officer:
“Rowing Australia is delighted to bring the Australian Masters Rowing Championships back to Canberra and we are grateful for the support of the ACT Government in making this event possible.
“As someone who grew up rowing in the ACT, it is particularly special to see one of our premier national events return to Lake Burley Griffin. Canberra is not only home to Rowing Australia, but also the Reinhold Batschi National Training Centre, making it a place of great significance to our sport.
“The Australian Masters Rowing Championships celebrate lifelong participation in rowing, and we look forward to welcoming the rowing community back to the nation's capital.”
Quote from Kent Peters, Rowing ACT President:
"On behalf of Rowing ACT, we are thrilled to welcome athletes back to Canberra and the pristine Lake Burley Griffin for the Australian Masters Rowing Championships.
"This national event is a great opportunity for members of the rowing community to connect with each other and with local clubs, all while enjoying everything that Canberra and the ACT has to offer."