Discover sailing at free event this Sunday

The Geographe Bay Yacht Club (GBYC) celebrated the official opening of the 2024/25 sailing season on Saturday with a day full of festivities, races and community spirit.

The club hosts not only local sailing enthusiasts, but a wide range of social and community groups, acting as a venue for many local events and welcoming members of the sailing community for more than 70 years.

Opening Day celebrations included the Patrons Cup and Meiklejohn Family Trophy races, while showcasing the club’s commitment to fostering a welcoming and inclusive environment for all ages and abilities.

Guests included Busselton Mayor Phill Cronin, VIPs from affiliate club, members of the local Lions Club as well as sailing club life members, past commodores and of course, current sailing members.

Another highlight of the weekend was a huge contingent of riders making a stop on the two-day Black Dog Ride through the South West, where the sailing club and Busselton Lions welcomed riders with food and camaraderie as they rode through the region to raise funds and awareness for mental health and suicide prevention.

Free event offers chance to discover sailing

The club will host the return of Discover Sailing Day on Sunday, October 20th, from 10am to 12pm, followed by a community Sausage Sizzle.

This free, family-friendly event is open to all and promises an exciting day on the water, welcoming anyone who has ever dreamed of learning to sail or simply wants to enjoy the adventure of sailing in beautiful Geographe Bay.

Discover Sailing Day gives participants the chance to try their hand at sailing, guided by experienced instructors and club members.

Whether you’re navigating a small Pelican boat or feeling the rush aboard a fast catamaran, there’s something for every age and skill level.

Geographe Bay Yacht Club Commodore Anton Mann said, “We are excited to welcome the local community to experience the joy of sailing.

“This is a fantastic opportunity for beginners and families to enjoy our club’s facilities, meet new people, and discover the magic of being on the water.”

The event will feature:

For those who catch the sailing bug, the club is offering the chance to sign up for upcoming Learn to Sail Courses.

The adult and teen courses provide structured lessons, while the popular Tackers Program is tailored for younger sailors, helping them build confidence on the water.

“Sailing offers not only fun and adventure but also lifelong skills like teamwork and resilience,” added Mann.

“Our Learn to Sail courses cater to all levels, and we are especially proud of our Tackers program, which introduces kids to the sport in a supportive environment.”

For more information about Discover Sailing Day or to register for the upcoming Learn to Sail courses, visit the club’s website at www.gbyc.com.au or https://www.gbyc.com.au/events/260902