On Thursday 7th September 2023, the Queensland sailing community got together at the Royal Queensland Yacht Squadron for the announcement of the winners for the 2023 Queensland Sailing Awards. It was a gala event with over 90 people celebrating the finalists and winners of each award.  

It was fantastic to have Australian Sailing Board Member, Joanne Keen, joining in the celebrations and presenting some awards and trophies along with Yachting Queensland Board President Kerry Noyes and YQ Board Members, Katy Jones, Genevieve Warlow and Sarah Thorburn. Their support of this event is very much appreciated by the finalists, winners and all who attended.

Kerry Noyes the President of Yachting Queensland spoke about the vibrant energy and passion that defines our sailing family that is a testament to the deep-rooted commitment we share toward the sport that unites us.  She went on to thank and congratulate all the nominees, and recipients whose dedication, and sportsmanship shine as beacons of inspiration, lighting the way for aspiring sailors and reminding us of the extraordinary heights we can achieve through perseverance and determination.

Kerry said, “the Queensland sailing community has not only excelled, but has left an indelible mark on the global stage. Hosting state and national, championships as well as world class regattas has showcased our unparalleled venues and hospitality. The 50 clubs and 20 Discover Sailing Centres across our state have been crucibles of talent, nurturing the next generation of sailors who proudly represent Australia on the international stage.”

There were so many incredible stories behind each of our winners.  You can read a snapshot of that in the event booklet: 
 

Congratulations to our winners for 2023.

Youth Sailor of the Year – Laken Eaton from Brisbane Sailing Squadron

Para Sailor of the Year – Jason Lea from Newport Cruising Yacht Club

Team of the Year – Women Racing Skipper Stacey Jackson from Royal Queensland Yacht Squadron

Female Sailor of the Year – Mara Stransky from Royal Queensland Yacht Squadron

Male Sailor of the Year – Garry Holt from Southport Yacht Club

Instructor of the Year – Sophie Baynton from Keppel Bay Sailing Club

Coach of the Year – Adrian Finglas from Royal Queensland Yacht Squadron

Official of the Year – Alan Crawford from Royal Queensland Yacht Squadron

Volunteer of the Year – Kate Slade from Humpybong Yacht Club

Sports Promotion Award – Southport Yacht Club

Sports Professional Award – Mark Dingley from Royal Queensland Yacht Squadron

SheSails Award – Jasmine Ruck from Southport Yacht Club

Sustainability Award – Ian & Annika Thomson from Whitsunday Sailing Club

Lifetime Achievement Award – Keith Stover from Keppel Bay Sailing Club

Lifetime Achievement Award -  Ted Reye from Royal Queensland Yacht Squadron

Lifetime Achievement Award - Colin Metcher from Southport Yacht Club

Club of the Year Category B – Humpybong Yacht Club

Club of the Year Category A – Keppel Bay Sailing Club

The winners are now nominated for the National Awards and for the QSport Awards.  Finalists for those Awards will be announced soon, and we wish the best for the Queensland nominees.

Every club is special in its own way and our community is filled with incredible people who are part of our sport.  We hope that more clubs and individuals will be nominated for the 2024 Queensland Sailing Awards.  

If you would like to see who has won the awards in the past, please visit the Queensland Honour Board https://www.sailing.org.au/state-awards-home/qld-sailing-awards/

Thank you for your support.