The latest updates from Australian Sailing's General Manager WA – Lawson Dixon.

Please click this link to find a copy of all past WA General Managers Updates. 

8 Bells: Greg Shakeshaft 

The WA sailing fraternity has lost main equipment auditor Greg Shakeshaft in tragic circumstances on Thursday 11/05/2023. 

He was a valued member of their sailing community in many ways.  

His memory will be with those of us fortunate enough to have known his service to sailing, his laughter and compassionate participation. Greg was a very valued, active, and contributing to general safety in sailing National Equipment Auditor in WA for many years. 

The EA team in WA will miss him dearly and renders sincere condolences to family and friends. 

Congrats to WA Sailors selected in Paris 2024 Test Event! 

Australia has announced its 12-strong group of sailors set to represent the nation at this year’s Paris 2024 Test Event, which is set to take place at the Olympic venue from 9-16 July, 4 of whom are from WA.  

The Test Event is a major milestone on the path to Paris, with athletes competing at the Olympic venue under the same format they will encounter at next year’s Games. 

The team will be spearheaded by Tokyo 2020 gold medallist Matt Wearn OAM, who is looking to win again in the ILCA 7 next year. 

“I am delighted to be selected to the Test Event team, which is a huge first step towards the Games,” said Wearn. The West Australian is looking forward to the challenge racing in the port city presents. 

Among those experiencing Olympic-like conditions for the first time is fellow WAIS athlete Zoe Thomson, selected in the ILCA 6 class. 

“I am super happy to have been selected. I am excited to learn about the venue, and to learn from the rest of the team,” said Thomson. 

Thomson produced a breakout international performance when she claimed Silver at this year’s Trofeo Princesa Sofia regatta in Palma and is looking forward to being part of the smaller team heading to the Test Event. 

Perth’s Nia Jerwood competed in Tokyo in the Women’s 470, and she has been selected in the new Mixed 470 event with new crew Conor Nicholas.