Emma Pritchard

A stretch of water along the Clarence River at Maclean will become a fast-paced raceway on July 23 when the Northern Rivers Aquatic Club Inc host their inaugural Power Boat Circuit Race Day.

Close to 30 competitors from as far as Northern Queensland and the South Coast of NSW will roar into action, reaching speeds of more than 200km/hr in some of the fastest boats in Australia, including multiple Grand Prix unlimited hydroplane boats.

Secretary of the Northern Rivers Aquatic Club Inc Kim Schiemer said the event has generated a lot of interest locally and nationally, and with the weather looking good and perfect racing conditions forecast for this weekend, he is confident the beautiful setting of the Clarence River will entice competitors and spectators to return in future years.

“This will become an annual event,” he said confidently.

“The club was only formed two years ago, but we’re building our membership, and our profile.

“We’ve been working closely with the local community and local businesses to advertise this event, and we’re really pleased with the response we’ve received.

“It will be a good day of racing.”

Mr Schiemer said boats will launch from MacNaughton Place, with racing to commence at 10am and continue until 4pm.

Competitors will travel upriver and complete three laps of a specially marked racing circuit less than 1km in length adjacent to SPAR Maclean and the BP Service Centre in River Street, expertly manoeuvring around buoys while showcasing their superb driving and handling skills. 

Race Control will also be set up in River Street to monitor proceedings.

Spectators are welcome to view the racing from multiple locations along the Clarence River, including the wharf opposite the Harwood Hotel, and McLachlan Park in Maclean.

The event is also aimed at promoting tourism in Maclean while boosting the riverside community’s local economy.

“We’re anticipating it will develop a good following,” Mr Schiemer revealed.