On the 29/11/1850, the “Perth Gazette” published an item to spark public interest. Boat Race: a match race between two gigs, “Native Chief” and “Lady of the Lake”. “Native Chief” won the race in 35 minutes with the crew of J Watson, H Burgess and J Dyer steering. This was the forerunner of the Perth Regatta which took place on 18/06/1851. This was a contest for cargo boats, sailing boats, a pulling match and a duck hunt.