The Hobsons Bay Yacht Club (HBYC) recently hosted a Women's only Keelboat Instructor Course to great success.

“Having been an instructor for the last 20 years, I thoroughly enjoyed the Keelboat instructors course," said one of the participants, Jacqui.

"With 7 women I was able to continue to grow along my path as an Instructor. The group of female sailors used the two sessions to support each other to grow and develop our skills for the next generation of sailors both young and old."

"The opportunity to learn from the many diverse backgrounds and ages occured in a safe and harmonious environment. The instructors were able to guide the growth leaving us all with knowledge and trust in our abilities," Jacqui finished.

The HBYC said it was proud to host a Keelboat Instructor Course specifically for Women, stating that "The course aimed to upskill the participants and give them the confidence to further thrive in our sport."

"The weather was a typical Melbourne spring with light winds on one day and cold and blustery the next. On both days the women showed excellence and were able to work together to grow and improve on their skills," said HBYC.

"The female participants came for a variety of clubs including Gippsland Lakes Yacht Club, Mordialloc Motor Yacht Club, Hobsons Bay Yacht Club, Sandringham Yacht Club and Royal Melbourne Yacht Squadron.

"This initiative was able to happen thanks to HBYC Club member Cath Black, the Change our Game Grant and Australian Sailing - Victoria.

"The course was led by Sean Hogan, Howard Hughes with assistance from Ian Fox and Michael Bradley.

"Thank You also to the boat owners that allowed this course to proceed.

"The course was a success and Victoria benefits with more qualified women instructors," finished HBYC.