Hobies primed for Australia Day Regatta

MORE than 20 catamaran vessels will be seen from far and wide in

Zeally Bay over two days of racing, as a staple of Torquay Sailing Club’s calendar returns for 2023 with a different look.

The club’s Australia Day Sailing Regatta kicks off its marathon race tomorrow (Saturday, January 28) with vessels departing Fisherman’s Beach, around Zeally Bay’s kingfish artificial reef, then to either Bells Beach, Point Addis or Anglesea Beach (depending on weather).

Crews will take a lunch break and then turn back to Torquay Sailing Club. Historically, the race has made its way to Anglesea Motor Yacht Club at nearby Point Roadknight.

Day two on Sunday, January 29 will involve short course races off Fisherman’s the potential addition of a beam reach race.

“This is our flagship event here at the club,” Torquay Sailing Club athlete Madeline Gillard said.

“The first Australia Day Regatta, or Bill Worrell Memorial Coaster as it is properly named, took place long before I started sailing here, but the race pays homage to Bill Worrell who was the original dealer of Hobie Catamarans here in Australia.

“So, we take great pride in what this race stands for.”

Gillard said excitement was brewing among sailors from across the country at the recent National Championships in Jervies Bay.

“We can’t wait to welcome our regular Torquay sailors back to this wonderful event, but also sailors from across the state and country as well,” she added.

“It brings a lot of people to Torquay which is great for the town, and for as long as I can remember it is a marquee event on the Hobie Catamaran calendar.”

Racing on both days begins about noon and is expected to conclude between 3-4pm.

More information about the regatta can be found on the club’s social media accounts.