Lake Barrington set to host back-to-back Australian Rowing Championships

The Australian Rowing Championships (#ARC26) are heading back to Tasmania in 2026, with the spectacular Lake Barrington International Rowing Course set to resume hosting duties from March 23-29.

The decision follows the record-breaking success of #ARC25, which saw unprecedented participation levels, overwhelmingly positive athlete feedback and a surge in spectator attendance.

Rowing Tasmania has confirmed it will support the successful delivery of #ARC26, working in close collaboration with Rowing Australia, Tasmanian Government and the Kentish Council.

Rowing Australia CEO Sarah Cook OLY said the organisation was inspired by the return to one of Australia’s most picturesque and iconic rowing venues after a superb regatta in 2025.

“Lake Barrington offers a truly world-class setting for the athletes, coaches, officials and spectators, and we’re incredibly grateful to the Tasmanian Government, Rowing Tasmania, and the Kentish Council and for their strong and ongoing support," Cook said.

“We look forward to working together once again to deliver another exceptional event for our sport.”

Rowing Tasmania CEO Robert Prescott has welcomed the return of the Australian Rowing Championships to Lake Barrington in 2026, following the record-breaking success of the 2025 edition.

“To have the Australian Rowing Championships back at Lake Barrington International Rowing Course in 2026 is an honour for Rowing Tasmania and is on-going recognition of the outstanding success of the 2025 Championships at the Lake,” Prescott said.

“The support of the Tasmanian Government for back-to-back Championships is confirmation of the financial and social benefits of the event to our State.

“Rowing Tasmania acknowledges the support this year’s event received from the Kentish community, the Kentish Council, business houses from Burnie to Launceston, the Tasmanian rowing community, athletes and coaches and our volunteers, whose many hours of work helped make the event the best ever. Thank you.

“We look forward to welcoming back mainland visitors to our wonderful facility at Lake Barrington.”

With the event falling just ahead of the Easter long weekend and the school holidays, it’s a wonderful opportunity for participants, families and supporters to extend their trip and explore all that Tasmania has to offer.

#ARC26 presents a perfect opportunity to combine world-class sport with a well-earned holiday in one of Australia’s most stunning regions.

Further event details, including entries, ticketing, and volunteer opportunities, will be released in the coming months.