The boat was christened just before Christmas as named in honour of Taree Old Bar life member Bevan Weiley. Old Bar’s women’s crew will put the boat through its paces.

This is the first time Old Bar has hosted a round of the series and for a change, the Manning has taken an event from Port Macquarie.

“The round was to be held at Port Macquarie, but there were logistical problems because of the school holidays,’’ North Coast series media liaison officer Sheenah Whitten explained.

“Other clubs was were asked if they were interested in hosting the round and Taree Old Bar put their hand up.’’

The club had earlier been offered a date in February, but this clashed with the Lower North Coast championships.

The series has a history dating back 20 years and this is the first time a round has been held at Old Bar. Depending on the success of tomorrow, Ms Whitten said there is a possibility the boats could return to Old Bar on a regular basis in the future.

Old Bar’s women’s crew currently holds down third spot on the ladder and member Jane Lynch said they are determined to maintain their place. Woolgoolga leads on 49 from Kempsey-Crescent Head on 48. Old Bar has 25.

“We can’t catch the leaders, but we definitely want to stay in third place and maybe reduce the margin between the top two,’' she added.

“We’re looking forward to rowing our new boat at our home beach.’’

Action will start from 11am to take full advantage of the tide and there will be 10 divisions decided from under 19s through to masters. Woolgoolga and Kempsey Crescent Head are expected to be the leading contenders in the open men’s division.

Ms Whitten said most clubs will be making the trip to Old Bar.

“It might be a bit far for Yamba, but the rest from Minni Water down should be there,’’ she said.

At this stage it appears Taree Old Bar will be the only Lower North Coast representative.