The Aquatic was an institution in Taree for more than 40 years. It was conducted in the last week in January, starting on the Wednesday night, and running through to Monday evening, when the Aquatic Queen was crowned. Day sessions were held from the Saturday through to Monday. This was the era when the final weekend in January was always a long weekend, with the Monday off for Australia Day.

As ever, a huge crowd watched the traditional Aquatic Parade through Victoria Street on the Saturday in 1972, when the festival was officially opened. The festival was at the height of its popularity then, attracting thousands of people to the area. Queen Elizabeth Park was the focal point for the rides and sideshow alley, while sporting events included sailing, rowing and the big crowd magnet – power boats. Taree RSL Club’s Sunday morning bucks show was another attraction.

Sadly, support for the festival started to wane in the late 1980s and the last event was held in 1996. Occasionally there have been calls to revive the festival, but it appears to be a forlorn hope.