The prayers of keen yachties were answered yesterday afternoon when it was announced the Queensland border will open from 10 July, at this stage allowing yachties to participate in Townsville Yacht Club’s much anticipated SeaLink Magnetic Island Race Week 2020. 

Above: Aerial view of SeaLink Magnetic Island Race Week  - Andrea Francolini pic, SMIRW

“We are over the moon to be able to say the border is open and our event is on and thank those who stayed positive and entered. We are sorry Victorians may not be able to join us this year; but that may change in due course,” Event Chairman, Mike Steel said. 

“However, due to the COVID 19 restrictions of this year, SeaLink Magnetic island Race Week will look a little different this time. We are restricted to 60 boats and will be bringing the party to the people on their yachts between 4-6pm daily,” he said of the event to take place from 27 August to 2 September. 

Steel said general access would be open through all areas of Peppers Resort, adhering to social distancing. “We at SeaLink Magnetic Island Race Week will support Peppers Blue on Blue as they seek to manage the situation with entrants, by reminding them daily.”

A maximum of 30 skippers will be allowed to attend the Skipper’s Briefing, with a live stream for those who are not in attendance. 

Above: Covid 19 can't halt a good day's racing - Andrea Francolini pic - SMIRW2019

“We have organised entertainment on a smaller scale, with speakers on the marina allowing all crews to enjoy. Fortunately, the venue at Peppers is conducive to crews spending time on their yachts after racing, and this can continue with nobody missing out on the nightly presentations, courtesy of the speakers and a live stream to Facebook,” Steel said.

The good news is that MC, Scott Hillier will be on the Island to undertake duties again, while navigating guru, Will Oxley, will pre-record the weather presentation. 

While mass gatherings on the deck cannot be this year, crews will still be able to book dinners at Peppers and other restaurants on the Island. They can also utilise facilities in the units and barbecue facilities at Peppers.

If you haven’t already, please book Peppers Blue on Blue Resort accommodation now. There are various accommodation options available. Booking directly through the resort: Phone: (07) 4758 2400 or email blueonblue@peppers.com.au

Entrants have the option of IRC Racing, SeaLink Spinnaker Class, Non-Spinnaker, Trailable and Multihull classes. And as those who have been before will tell you, you don’t want to miss this special event at: www.magneticislandraceweek.com.au/