The Whitsunday Sailing Club has been an icon of Airlie Beach for as long as most locals remember but this Good Friday April 2nd sees the club celebrate its official 50th birthday since it’s beginning on the point in Pioneer bay.

President Leo Rodriguez said it’s a huge milestone for the Club “We have come such a long way in our 50-year history from starting out as a small tin shed with a group of passionate parents who wanted a place for their children to learn how to sail to now embarking on our development of a world class training facility. We’ll be having many events throughout the year to celebrate so we encourage all current, past and present members and the community to come to the club and enjoy our ongoing festivities”

Tourism Whitsundays CEO Tash Wheeler said that the Whitsunday Sailing Club has been an important part of the region for many years.

“Congratulations to the Whitsunday Sailing Club on their 50th Birthday, a Golden Jubilee! 50 years is an incredible milestone for any not for profit business, we are proud to have a club that supports not just sailing enthusiasts but our community and tourism sector.”

With its popular restaurant and bar undergoing a renovation during the lockdown of 2020 and upgrades to the hardstand area with a new security gate and increased storage area, the club continues to grow and evolve but not without the support of its members and sponsors. “As a not for profit community club the majority of our funding for maintenance and upgrades comes from grants and sponsorship as well as membership fees” said President Rodriguez. “We are always encouraging local businesses to get on board and support the club to ensure its longevity and we offer great incentives and benefits for those that do’

Whilst closed for Good Friday the club will be open on it’s belated birthday Saturday April 3rd for the opening of the Sail Airlie Easter Regatta.