By Jack Burden

Water skiing’s longest-running professional event is set to return to the heart of Melbourne, as invitations have gone out for the 65th Nautique Moomba Masters International Invitational, scheduled for March 5–9, 2026 on the Yarra River.

The Victorian Water Ski Association has confirmed a deep and globally diverse field, featuring athletes from across the world and headlined by three reigning individual world champions, all of the 2025 men’s Waterski Pro Tour champions, and another rare Moomba appearance from newlywed world record holder Regina Critchley (née Jaquess). As ever, Moomba blends established stars with emerging talent, particularly from the Southern Hemisphere, where timing and travel continue to shape the competitive mix.

While some Northern Hemisphere absences reflect planning ahead to the 2027 World Championships, the overall roster promises no shortage of intrigue. From elite slalom and jump contenders to one of the strongest men’s trick fields assembled—led by Jake Abelson, Matías Gonzalez, Martín Labra, Joel Poland, and Patricio Font—the 2026 Moomba Masters once again looks poised to deliver five days of world-class competition at the centerpiece of the Melbourne Moomba Festival.