Three University of Tasmania engineering students recently accepted a challenge from Launceston Mayor Albert van Zetten.

The challenge?

To Build a cardboard boat capable of carrying both the Mayor and Deputy Mayor Danny Gibson to victory at this year's Soggy Bottom Cardboard Box Boat Regatta.

On Sunday, March 1, enthusiasts from across Tasmania will descend on Waverley Lake to take part in the unforgiving sport of cardboard box boat racing, hosted by the Rotary Club of Youngtown.

This year, the event is raising funds for Diabetes Tasmania's Youth Camps initiative.

As part of the City of Launceston's Civil Engineering Cadetship program, engineering students Isaac, Joseph and Dylan recently undertook 10 weeks' of work experience at the Council.

Along with learning about project management, sustainability and infrastructure, the students tackled arguably their most difficult task -- building Tasmania's best cardboard boat.