“There are no flowers on a sailor’s grave, No lilies on an ocean wave, The only tribute is the seagull’s sweep, And the teardrop on a loved one’s cheek” Anonymous. March 1st 1942, Captain Hector Waller, DSO, RAN and the crew of HMAS Perth (I), alongside allied vessel USS Houston, were lost in the naval Battle of Sunda Strait during World War II between the islands of Java and Sumatra, Indonesia.

Nedlands Yacht Club proudly hosts the 60th HMAS Perth Regatta on Sunday, February 16 to honour their memory. This unique event provides a chance for all who enjoy the freedom of sailing on the Swan River today, the opportunity to show respect and appreciation for the sacrifices made by those who serve past and present.

This open invitational yardstick regatta historically has a large fleet of off the beach dinghies, catamarans, keelboats, trailable cruisers and sports boats racing across the six divisions and classes.

Everybody is welcome and entries are still open. This year heralds the launch of the HMAS Perth (I) Memorial Foundation, who intend to build a Memorial in East Fremantle for the vessel and her crew.

Formal ceremonies and commemorations will be held prior to racing, which starts from 1:20pm. A respectful and standing tradition for those who paid the ultimate sacrifice as they sail on in the sky. Visit nyc.org.au for all the details and to register.