Worth it for the Gurus alone!

Australia II : 40 Years On- An exhibition and Celebration

“Spend half my life in airports doing crosswords and attempting to sleep,
And when the bar is open then you'll often find me warming a seat.
(Now you're flying) I never find a place where I can stay
(Really flying) I'd rather be a thousand miles away.
Thousand miles away.”

Tuesday 26 September marks the 40th Anniversary of the moment the Australia II team broke the longest winning streak in sporting history and brought the America’s Cup to Western Australia.

A 1980s themed, family friendly celebration will see Fremantle’s Victoria Quay come alive on Sunday 24 September with iconic 80s rock bands taking to the stage including; Hoodoo Gurus, Baby Animals, Voyager and, Slim Jim and the FATTS Bands.

As the sun sets over the Indian Ocean, experience the story of the ‘unwinnable race’ told by a sound and light drone show capturing the iconic battle between the yachts - Australia II and Liberty.

The Celebration includes free entry all weekend to the WA Maritime Museum at Victoria Quay, including the new Australia II: 40 Years On Exhibition.

Free parking on Sunday 24 September at Victoria Quay.

The best thing - no need to call any boss a bum, because you all get the Monday off!

The Exhibition

The WA Maritime Museum, home of Australia II, is hosting a brand new exhibition to commemorate the iconic moment in international sporting history when Australia II claimed America’s Cup Victoria from the American’s after 132 years.

Australia II: 40 Years On exhibition explores the celebrated stories that led to Australia II emerging victorious alongside Western Australia’s incredible maritime sporting achievements. Get an intimate look at the grit and perseverance of the Australian crew, led by John Bertrand, as they set new standards in elite sport with a revolutionary keel design shrouded in secrecy.

The exhibition runs until 4 February 2024 but, to expand the celebrations across the long weekend, the WA Maritime Museum is offering free entry. From 23 - 26 September visitors can enjoy the exhibition, see the famous yacht and take part in a range of special activities and performances.