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Young sailors travelled from across Far North Queensland to compete in the regatta
Colourful sails filled the horizon at South Mission Beach over the weekend as around 40 boats and competitors from across North Queensland gathered for the 44th annual Mission Beach Regatta.
With sailors travelling from as far afield as Mackay, the Whitsundays, Bowen, Townsville, Cairns and the Tablelands and from all corners of the Cassowary Coast, the two-day event brought together generations of sailing enthusiasts for some friendly competition and camaraderie, in spectacular conditions.
Fair Winds And Good Times At Mission Beach
There was plenty of colour, camaraderie and good old-fashioned fun at South Mission Beach over the weekend as around 40 boats took to the water for the annual Mission Beach Regatta.
With a beautiful northeasterly breeze and spectacular views of Dunk Island, conditions were near-perfect for the two-day event, hosted by the Mission Beach Sailing Club.
Sailors travelled from as far as Mackay, the Whitsundays, Bowen, Townsville, Cairns and the Tablelands, joining local competitors from across the Cassowary Coast. The fleet included catamarans, monohulls and dinghies, with sailors of all ages and abilities enjoying some friendly competition.
"They had a beautiful northeasterly breeze, about 15 to 17 knots, perfect conditions," club secretary Carmen Walker said.
For Carmen, the regatta is about much more than racing.
"A lot of the Far North Queenslanders, we're like a big family up here, and these regattas are a gathering of our extended sailing family," she said.
"We love hosting the event and people love coming here because it's more of a laid-back regatta."
Among those enjoying the weekend was Clifton Beach sailor Brad Rees, returning after several years away through illness.
"This is like VIP weather. We've got a decent breeze blowing. It's just beautiful conditions here," he said.
Airlie Beach sailor Jacob McConaghy is preparing to compete in the International Moth World Championships in Perth, but the Mission Beach Regatta offered a chance for some relaxed racing aboard a Tasar with fellow sailor Emily Wells.
"It's just so much fun," Emily said, with the pair enjoying the beachside camping and opportunity to catch up with sailing friends.
Another highlight was the return of the club's junior Green Fleet for the first time in around 15 years.
"We had seven Green Fleeters," Carmen said, explaining that the young sailors, aged seven to 12, were developing the skills and confidence needed to progress into competitive racing.
Meanwhile, Mission Beach sailor Luke McMullern and crew member Giles Richardson, from Port Douglas, claimed line honours in the race around Dunk Island, completing the course aboard their Nacra 5.8 catamaran in one hour, 18 minutes and 10 seconds.
Carmen thanked the club's sponsors, particularly major supporter Tuskers, and encouraged anyone interested in sailing to come along to one of the club's three remaining sailing days before the season finishes in November.
"We can figure out what is suitable for their ability and skill level," she said.
For sailing dates and further information, visit www.missionbeachsailingclub.org.au.
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