2025-26 Sailing Season Announcement
Dear Squadron Members,
It’s a real honour to step into the role of Vice Commodore, and I want to sincerely thank you all for the support and encouragement I’ve received. The Squadron is built on the strength of its community, and I feel privileged to help guide the next chapter of our shared sailing journey.
As part of the Board’s governance structure, I’ve been entrusted with the oversight of our sailing and racing program. In this role, I’ll be working closely with our dedicated Sailing Committee, a passionate team of volunteers who bring a diverse range of experience and perspectives to the table. Together, our goal is to deliver a program that reflects the interests and aspirations of all sailors, no matter your background, level of experience, or type of boat.
Having previously served as the Squadron’s Sailing Operations Manager for over four years, I’ve had the opportunity to see first-hand the depth, enthusiasm and talent within our sailing community. I now look forward to continuing to support and grow that spirit in this new capacity.
As we approach the 2025–26 summer season, I’m excited to share a preview of what’s ahead. The Squadron has been working closely with our Combined Clubs partners to shape a calendar that offers something for everyone — from offshore to twilight sailing, from harbour racing to inclusive and social events.
I’m proud to present the 2025–26 Sailing Program [HERE], along with a message from this year’s Chair of the Combined Clubs Committee, BYC Vice Commodore Troy Grafton [HERE].
I look forward to seeing you on the water.
What’s ahead at the Squadron for 2025–26?
📍 Ronald Young and Co. Builders Pipe Opener – 19–21 September 2025, in partnership with Kettering Yacht Club. Entries opening soon.
📍 Two Capes Race Sponsored by Rest Energy Tasmania, this offshore race with virtual marks will run on 8 November 2025, kicking off the four-race Offshore Series. Entries opening soon.
📍 19th Launceston to Hobart Yacht Race
The 285nm challenge returns on 27 December 2025, with a cruising division reintroduced this year to welcome more sailors. Entries opening soon.
📍 Combined Clubs Events:
• Midweek Racing – starts 8 October 2025, running through to June 2026.
• Summer Pennant – Harbour and Long Race format across ten race days.
• Combined Clubs Charity Sailing Event – A Friday evening spinnaker race to raise funds for Speak Up Stay ChatTY.
📍 DSS/RYCT Twilight Series & SB20 Summer Pennant – Starts 9 October 2025. Entries opening soon.
📍 SB20 National Championships – 27–29 March 2026.
📍 Autumn Double Handed Series – Returns in 2026 with five race days.
With only three months to go before Opening Day on the 4 October, now is the perfect time to plan your race program and prepare your boats for the season.
Access the calendar on your device [HERE].
Here are a few reminders to help you get ready:
✅ Equipment Audits: Check that your fire extinguishers, flares, and first aid kits are in date. Ensure your life jackets are serviced. Planning offshore racing? Now is the time to prepare your gear for an Equipment Audit with an Australian Sailing Auditor.
✅ Sail Wardrobe: Do any sails need repairs after last season? Do your sails need measuring for IRC and/or ORC certificate renewals?
✅ Life Raft: Heading offshore? Have you organised your life raft?
✅ Training: Do you or your crew need to renew First Aid or Safety and Sea Survival certificates or need a radio licence before the season starts? The Squadron can help, check out our SailTrain calendar for your training needs [HERE]!
Finally, don’t miss the opportunity to join us at the Squadron on 6 August for an evening with offshore sailor Luke Watkins, who will deliver a practical, hands-on session focused on offshore race preparation and the personal safety gear that truly matters when things go wrong.
Whether you’re planning your first offshore race or looking to refine your safety setup, this is a session you won’t want to miss. Book your spot [HERE]
It is shaping up to be another great season, and I look forward to seeing you all out on the water.
Warm regards,
Colleen Darcey
Vice Commodore
