Regatta postponed, program continues

Stawell Yacht Club officials hope to run the club’s regatta early next year after uncertainty surrounding COVID-19 restrictions forced them to postpone the event.

The annual regatta, which usually attracts visitors from across western Victoria and a large contingent from Melbourne, had been scheduled for October 30 and 31.

Club commodore Ross Bennett confirmed that due to the uncertainty and after receiving confirmation from peak sailing body Australian Sailing, it would be impossible to run the event.

He said the club would work towards a new regatta date in either February or March.

The club will now turn its attention to a more district-focused learn to sail and race program at Lake Fyans during November.

Vice-commodore and keen Laser sailor Steve Marcroft hopes the club can attract sportspeople in the area who would be keen to learn new skills and participate in the sport.

He said that ‘by not only teaching people how to sail but also race dinghies, the more competitive sportspeople will develop faster and enjoy the thrilling aspects of the sport’.

The club plans to sail each Sunday afternoon during November, focusing on new participants and allowing them to develop at their own pace.

The club will be supplying boats and tuition free of charge. There will be a temporary club membership fee to cover insurance costs.

People can find more information on the club’s website or Facebook page.