At the Queensland Clubs Conference last weekend (20-21 July 2019) Nicholas Neale provided a presentation on the new OutThere Sailing Youth Program.  This Program can be considered as an adaptation of the current Start Sailing Dinghy or Start Crewing Keelboat Programs with additional on water experiences in SUPs, windsurfers & powerboats. Focusing on 12 – 17 year olds, the aim is to attract youth to sailing by offering variety, flexibility and fun.

There were a number of questions asked by the club representatives after the presentation and, during the lunch break, eight clubs immediately contacted the Queensland OutThere Sailing Project Officer to confirm their interest in running the Program at their club.

David Begley from Humpybong Yacht Club advised that this would hopefully attract new members in that age group and would value add to the variety of activities the club can offer.

Tinaroo Sailing Club and Maroochy Sailing Club were both excited to add this as another Program they can offer and hope to encourage a continuation in the sailing activities from the younger aged Tackers sailors.

All in all the response to OutThere Sailing has initially been very well received and the seed funding an added bonus, but was not the be all and end all for those who were truly interested.

We are all looking forward to rolling out the Program across Queensland during the next few months.

If you would like further information about OutThere Sailing please contact:

Alison Turner

OutThere Sailing Project Officer

Ph: 07 3393 6788 | Mob: 0404 712 778 | E: alison.turner@sailing.org.au