Each Christmas, the Port Arthur Historic Site is very pleased to host
the Boxing Day Woodchopping Carnival, which is thought to be one of,
and possibly THE longest running sports carnival in Australia.
Our research has shown that the Boxing Day Woodchopping Carnival has
received over 15,000 newspaper entries over the last century or so.
These reports have also reinforced that for many years the festival
involved more than just wood chopping. Activities have included
footraces, jumping, athletics, stalls, bike races, shot put, cricket
ball throwing, nail driving, three-legged races and even dances.
In conjunction with the Carnival organisers and our Community
Advisory Committee, the Port Arthur Historic Site has decided to
reintroduce some of these ‘traditional’ events. It should be a great day
for the kids, with a range of races, including the well loved
egg-and-spoon race,
The 2015 Boxing Day Woodchopping Carnival will be held on Saturday 26 December, with events starting at 9am.
The launch of a special program celebrating the 150th anniversary of woodchopping carnivals in the area will be held at noon.
Access to the Carnival is included in the cost of Site entry.