The conditions were perfect for sailing and there was just the right amount of wind and sun.

Tinaroo Sailing Club’s 52nd annual May Day Regatta was, once again, a fantastic success for the Far North Queensland sailing club.

“We had nearly 60 boats on the water — from O’pen Skiffs and Sabots to foiling Moths and A Class Cats — with people travelling from as far as Mackay,” said Commodore Roger Wadley.

“The dam was at 100% and it’s a fantastic venue for spectators under the shady trees with racing right in front of the club."

The conditions were perfect for sailing and there was just the right amount of wind and sun.

Our regatta is also well-known for the off-water experience.

Competitors and their families camp right on the lake and socialise around the campfires at night.

We have a bring-a-plate dinner, slide shows and social racing, which means it is an engaging and enjoyable weekend for everyone,” said Roger.

Mat Himson, Australian Sailing regional development camps coach, said, “It was an unreal regatta experience and the ultimate way to spend the weekend.”

He listed the pros of regattas at Tinaroo Sailing Club as:

1.    Camping by the lake right next to your boat
2.    Starting races 10m from the shore so you can launch really late
3.    No tide, sharks, jellyfish, crocs, waves or saltwater
4.    The schedule of racing means there is lots of time ashore to socialise, debrief and just refuel beside the fire
5.    Good quality racing around fixed marks with courses altered for every race
6.    Scenic drive with lots to see and do along the way

“The only con is that you no longer want to do what you’ve always done for the May Day long weekend because, once you head up to Lake Tinaroo, you’ll want to come back every year.

"I’m really looking forward to a strong showing of Lasers next year for this exciting and social regatta,” he said.

Photo: Leanne Ellis © Tinaroo Sailing Club