The Giant Yabby
This is an entry from the 2006 Mad Hatter Regatta Race. Till recently the race was held every Australia Day on the Murray River in Albury. The brief was to create a raft with the focus on fun and the madder side of life, while representing something broadly Australian.
The Giant Yabby was built with Owen Everitt. It was our 2006 entry. Anni Gifford assisting with crewing duties.
The Yabby itself is constructed from mostly recycled or reclaimed materials. The base was constructed from discarded windscreen pallets, using ex soft drink concentrate barrels to provide flotation.
The skeleton for the body and claws was created from palm tree branches, and some poly pipe.
It was then clad in material sourced from an end of fabric spool supplier.
Closed claw frame, made from palm tree fronds and pvc irrigation pipe.
Open claw, made from palm tree fronds and pvc irrigation pipe
Ex soft drink plastic barrels were used for floatation.
Raft platform in construction. Made from ex windscreen pallets.
Yabby frame taking shape
The rafting team, Owen, Anni and me (from right to left)
The Giant Yabby!
Anni and the Yabby
Owen and the Yabby
on the water and away!