Meet Scott - Sailability Middle Harbour

Scott has been involved with Sailability for over seven years. His father was a sailing tragic, so Scott had little choice other than to follow his father’s lead. Scott enjoys being out on the water free of his wheelchair. He enjoys the companionship of the amazing Sailability volunteers, both out on the water and on the pontoon, who give up their free time to support those in need. He loves learning about their life experiences and interests and also sharing his story and passions.

Scott studied film production. He was part of the production team who won the Tropfest short film festival in 2005. Unfortunately, in 2005 Scott was diagnosed with MS. This ended his film career. MS is a progressive disease that has gradually robbed Scott of much of his mobility. Scott has always enjoyed the company of others. He has a vivid imagination and enjoys a good laugh. He shares this through Facebook and other online outlets.

Sailability Middle Harbour sails on the second and last Sunday of every month from 9am - 12noon.  For more information, contact Sally O’Neill on 0411 886 539 or visit the website.

Read more: Meet Scott - Sailability Middle Harbour

Storm and Heavy Weather Sails Interpretation Issued

An interpretation to Special Regulation 4.24 has been issued by Australian Sailing addressing requirements and the purpose of storm and heavy weather sails.

The use of staysails has increased and the use of storm and heavy weather sails as staysails has become common practice to reduce the number of sails required to be carried on board. Without better understanding of the purpose of storm sails, there is concern that the design and build of these sails is focused more on their performance as a staysail, than the requirements of a storm or heavy weather sail.

The interpretation establishes a clear purpose for storm and heavy weather sails clarifies their primary role as safety equipment. The interpretation is also aligned with Word Sailing’s position.

In short:

• Storm sails shall be designed to provide propulsion and steerage in 34-40 knots (Beaufort scale 8) and on all points of sail.
• Heavy weather sails shall be designed to provide propulsion and steerage in 22-27 knots (Beaufort scale 6) and on all points of sail.

To see the full article on the Australian Sailing Website including links to interpretations and the Safety Hub - CLICK HERE

Read more: Storm and Heavy Weather Sails Interpretation Issued

Elizabeth Tucker Partners with Cole Brauer for 12,000nm Double-Handed Journey to Australia

MHYC member Elizabeth Tucker, an inspiring sailor and former VP Finance in the renewable energy sector, is embarking on a 12,000nm journey from Europe to Australia, preparing for the ultimate test of endurance - the Global Solo Challenge (GSC) 2027 - a non-stop, solo circumnavigation of the globe.

Tucker recently acquired First Light, the Class 40 that Cole Brauer successfully raced in the inaugural GSC. After a successful career in finance, Tucker made the bold decision to step away from her role in 2023 to fully commit to her passion for offshore racing. Within 18 months of starting her maritime journey, she competed in the prestigious Rolex Sydney Hobart Yacht Race, solidifying her ambition to sail solo and non-stop around the globe.

The 12,000nm journey from Europe to Australia is a critical part of her preparation, testing her endurance and skills alongside her mentor, Cole Brauer, ahead of her solo circumnavigation. This voyage, essential for both delivering the boat and preparing Tucker for the GSC 2027, represents a key milestone in her mission to build a supportive and inclusive community in the ocean racing world.

While solo offshore racing is inherently challenging, Elizabeth is diligently preparing with the support of experienced mentors and rigorous training, ensuring she’s ready for the GSC 2027. Understanding that access to resources can be a barrier, Elizabeth is using First Light as a platform to offer women and others the opportunity to learn and grow in sailing—skills often hard to acquire without access to their own boat.

“I want to give people opportunities they might not otherwise have—the chance to learn, to grow in confidence, and to discover what they’re capable of, both on the water and in life,” Tucker explains. “Za Ocean Racing is about more than just sailing; it’s about encouraging people to follow their dreams, find their passion, and live authentically. My focus is on building a community where people push their limits and pursue their passions.”

Brauer, a veteran of the GSC and other offshore races, says, "This voyage with Elizabeth feels like passing the baton—not just a boat, but the spirit of solo offshore sailing. It’s an honour to share what I’ve learned with her and see her take First Light into the next chapter of its journey. I’m excited to watch her make her mark and embrace this challenge."

As Tucker gears up for the GSC 2027, Za Ocean Racing is actively seeking partnerships with organizations that share her vision of promoting adventure in sailing. Sponsors will play a pivotal role in supporting this groundbreaking campaign and will benefit from global exposure as part of her inspiring journey.

The delivery of First Light to Australia, based out of Sydney, marks the beginning of a bold and purpose-driven campaign. Tucker is looking to connect with like-minded sponsors and organizations eager to be part of this inspiring movement and support her GSC 2027 preparations.

For more information on Elizabeth Tucker’s journey, Za Ocean Racing, and her campaign for the Global Solo Challenge 2027, please visit:

Website: zaoceanracing.com

LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/za-tucker

Instagram: @zaoceanracing & @colebraueroceanracing

About Elizabeth Tucker:

Elizabeth Tucker is an aspiring solo offshore sailor who began her sailing journey four years ago. After competing in the 2021 Rolex Sydney Hobart Yacht Race, Tucker set her sights on the Global Solo Challenge 2027. With a strong commitment to fostering opportunities for others, Tucker developed Za Ocean Racing to provide access to sailing and life skills, encouraging people to push their boundaries and live life to the fullest.

About Cole Brauer:

Cole Brauer is a professional sailor with over a decade of offshore racing experience. Known for her success in the inaugural Global Solo Challenge, Brauer has inspired many through her resilience and tactical skill. Having competed in prestigious offshore races such as the GSC and the Bermuda 1-2 and currently training with IMOCA 60 team, Team Malizia for the Ocean Race Europe and The Ocean Race, Brauer continues to break barriers in the sport. Her mentorship of Elizabeth Tucker is part of her commitment to supporting fellow women in sailing.

For Sponsorship or Media enquiries, please contact:

Madeline Linwood
 This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
 +61 403 663 911
 LinkedIn: madeline-linwood

Read more: Elizabeth Tucker Partners with Cole Brauer for 12,000nm Double-Handed Journey to Australia

Winners finalised at Nautilus Marine Insurance Sydney Short Ocean Racing Championship

Two offshore windward/leeward races at the 2024 Nautilus Marine Insurance Sydney Short Ocean Racing Championship (SSORC) decided the SSORC champions for this year in conditions that were as brilliant as yesterday’s, with more sunshine and a north-easterly sea breeze beckoning.

Today’s start was north of Sow and Pigs Reef on Sydney Harbour, set by Middle Harbour Yacht Club (MHYC), organiser of the SSORC. The three divisions were away from 11am.

Two divisions raced in the Premier IRC/ORC Premier class and in both, others toppled Day 1’s leaders.

Bob Cox won both today’s Division 1 races, adding to his third of yesterday to win the Division. One can never underestimate Cox and his DK46 Nine Dragons, as they are well known for coming from behind to take the crown. 

Khaleesi, the other DK46, came into the day in second place and finished that way. Fourth and second places today were enough for MHYC Commodore, Rob Aldis, to hold on. Day 1 leader, David Ross’s Kukukerchu, finished third overall after scoring third and fifth places on his Cape 31. Just four points separated the top three, indicating just how close the racing was.

“The boat likes IRC and it likes windward/leewards,” Cox said. “The boat on boat battle was Khaleesi versus Nine Dragons and they got their nose in front on Saturday. We fought back today and opened the gap. In the last race, we literally crossed the line within a boat length. This is the best Khaleesi has done on windward/leeward courses.  

“It was a good fleet in Division 1, with dramatically different types of yachts. You could see the planing boats doing the job in the distance races while we’re better on the windward/leewards,”  Cox said.

It is incredible Cox can sail at all after breaking his neck and ribs just six months ago, but the tough 79-year-old explained, “The crew help me out. I love my sailing and I’ve got a great crew who help me on and off the boat - and around it. Today was quite rough, but it was rough yesterday too, so I had a couple of short stints at the helm only.

“Thanks to the organisers, they did their usual good job,” Cox ended.

A similar story in Division 2, as Matt Wilkinson fared better on the windward/leeward course too, with his Farr 30, Foreign Affair. Wilkinson toppled yesterday’s leader, Bullwinkle, from the top spot after winning both races. Bullwinkle, Peter Farrugia’s Bull 9000, claimed second place overall with fourth and second places today.  

Neil Padden maintained the status quo with Wailea, his Beneteau First 40.7. Padden started the day in third place and finished it that way, courtesy of second and third places.

Wilkinson said the first race of the day was in similar conditions to yesterday, “But the second race got a bit soft. It felt weird, it went down to 10-11 knots, which wasn’t as much fun.

“It was  bit bumpy, probably felt more so because there wasn’t as much breeze.

“We had a great day anyway. The Bullwinkles are good mates with us – they got us yesterday – so it was good to get them back today. You couldn’t have asked for a better weekend. I love the SSORC, I’ve done it, I can’t remember how many times,” Wilkinson finished.

Hooligan kept up the pressure by winning both windward/leeward races in the TP52s, scored under TPR, adding to yesterday’s second place. Marcus Blackmore, who is away, will be exceptionally pleased with his crew and nominated skipper, Martin Hill.

After winning yesterday’s TP52 race under TPR, Craig Neil’s Quest placed second and Mark Spring’s Highly Sprung took out third place, coming in over the top of Zen in the day’s two races, the latter finishing fourth.

The Super 50 division, where the TP52s were also included, was scored under IRC. Hooligan finished in the top spot again. Craig Neil’s Quest and Gordon Ketelebey’s Zen were second and third respectively coming into the day and finished up the same way.

Blackmore’s boats are always hard to beat, no matter the combination of races, as Hill explains:

“Again, you have to say, the boat is beautifully prepared and the team Marcus has created is second to none. We had Malcolm Page as tactician and he sailed with me in the Farr 40. It was good to get the old team back together. Richie Allanson and others are aboard, they’re all good.”

Of the opportunity he was given by Blackmore, Hill, a solid skipper across many classes, said, “I’ll make sure Marcus has my number on speed dial, because I’d do it again in an instant. I’ve even got bruises of honour where I bashed into the wheel in the seaway.

“Coming past North Head and surfing down waves was fantastic. They’re such fast boats,” Hill ended.

The TP52s and all others who took part in the 47^th running of the SSORC enjoyed the weekend, especially knowing that the warm sun and north-easterlies mean summer is here early.

For full results and all information on the SSORC, please visit: www.ssorc.mhyc.com.au 

Di Pearson/MHYC media

Photos by Andrea Francolini

Read more: Winners finalised at Nautilus Marine Insurance Sydney Short Ocean Racing Championship

Hats Off To Summer Party

Join your fellow members and friends for an unforgettable night of fun, friends, music & dancing in the Harbour View Room and Balcony to celebrate the arrival of longer, warmer days with summer just ahead.

Prizes for the best hats!

The ticket price includes a live band, finger food and a whole lot of fun. Bar service will be available throughout the night.

MHYC Members $35, Non-Members $45.

Saturday 9 November 2024 from 6:30pm - Midnight

Book Here

Read more: Hats Off To Summer Party

Seven Islands Race

The Seven Islands Race was sailed yesterday while the offshore fleet in the Nautilus Marine Insurance Sydney Short Ocean Racing Championship headed off to Lion Island. Sunny conditions and a fresh north easterly were perfect for the full course to Cockatoo, Spectacle and Snapper Islands west of the Sydney Harbour Bridge. 

Congratulations to Peter Charteris and the crew of Kailani, the first boat home and winners in Division 1.  Don Colantonio, with his new boat Trilogy, finished second ahead of Derek Minihane and Impulse.  In Divisioon 2, Susan Rice claimed the win with the Jeanneau 349 Nawi, ahead of Martyn Colebrook's Slac-N-Off and John Crawford's Innamincka.

To view the results - click here

Marg Fraser Martin photos

Andrea Francolini photos

Read more: Seven Islands Race

2024 SSORC Entry Open – sign up now

Competitors can now sign up for the 2024 Nautilus Marine Insurance Sydney Short Ocean Racing Championship (SSORC), with entry open and the Notice of Race published on the official event website. 

The SSORC, to be held over two days on the weekend of 23 and 24 November on offshore courses, is an ideal opportunity to get the early jump on rivals and to train for the offshore summer sailing season ahead of the Rolex Sydney Hobart and other upcoming events.

Racing will be held in Premier (IRC, ORCi and TPR); Performance (PHS) and One Design classes. Races in this Championship also form part of the MHYC Ocean Pointscore Series 2024-2025 and Race 1 forms part of the CYCA Ocean Pointscore Series 2024-2025.

A short ocean race is planned for Day 1. On Day 2 there is a switch to offshore windward/leeward races that will mix things up and test everyone. Both day’s races will start and finish in Watsons Bay and winners will be those who deal best with the variety of courses.  

Expect to see Division 1 IRC top three from last year, Bob Cox (Nine Dragons), Gordon Ketelbey (Zen) and Rob Aldis (Khaleesi) return. Jack Stening and Colin Gunn, last year’s Division 2 winners with Stormaway, are now campaigning the Sydney 38 Gusto and will move to Division 1 this year.

Others in 2023’s Division 2 top three, Foreign Affair (Matt Wilkinson) and Wailea (Neil Padden), are also expected back along with RPAYC’s Bullwinkle (Peter Farrugia).

Now in its 47^th year, Middle Harbour Yacht Club’s (MHYC) SSORC is run in conjunction with the Seven Islands Race, for those who prefer the cut and thrust of a round the islands Harbour course with its pursuit style start from the Club.

Held on the opening day of the SSORC, the Seven Islands Race is a game of ‘catch me if you can’ and again provides the opportunity of maximising teamwork and training against a wide variety of designs and lengths of boats. First past the post back at the Club wins.

First last year was the Mitch White skippered MC38, InfoTrack. Second and third places went to David Ross’ Cape 31 Kukukerchu and Michael Ritchie’s Ritchie 38, Revolver, respectively. No doubt the three will be keen to have another go.

“Running the SSORC and the Seven Islands Race concurrently offers yachties a choice of short offshore races and Harbour racing at its best. We’re looking forward to seeing you all on one of the start lines and to welcoming you back to our Club for the post-race presentation and festivities,” Rob Aldis, Commodore of MHYC and a fixture at the SSORC, commented. 

“I’d like to take this opportunity to also thank Nautilus Marine Insurance (NMI), our main event partner since 2022 and a perfect fit for the SSORC and our Sydney Harbour Regatta in March. They are a key part of Nautilus Marine Insurance’s partnership with MHYC,” Commodore Aldis finished.

Standard entries for SSORC close on Friday 15 November, with late entries take up until Wednesday 20 November.

For entry and Notice of Race, please visit: www.ssorc.mhyc.com.au 

Read more: 2024 SSORC Entry Open – sign up now

Entries shaping up nicely for 2024 Nautilus Marine Insurance Sydney Short Ocean Racing Championship

Entries for the 2024 Nautilus Marine Insurance Sydney Short Ocean Racing Championship (SSORC) to be held on the weekend of 23 and 24 November are flourishing across the board.

Craig Neil (Quest) and Gordon Ketelebey (Zen) were quick off the mark in signing their TP52’s up for the Super 50 division. Ketelebey finished second in the Premier IRC class in 2023, but this time will face-off against class mates, meaning tighter racing. Entries from Marcus Blackmore (with his latest Hooligan) and Mark Spring (Highly Sprung) followed.

“I did the SSORC a couple of years ago and I’m looking forward to doing it again,” Neil said. “There are more TPs coming too,” Neil said with his president of the Australian TP52 Sailing Association hat on.

“We haven’t done any windward/leeward racing since May, so the SSORC gives us a chance to get back into grand prix style racing again. We’re doing one day of windward/leewards and a passage race. That is the plan at the moment.

“That’s what most TP52 owners are interested in these days, windward/leewards. And they are exciting because the racing is so close – only seconds in it at mark roundings and the finish.”

The 47^th running of SSORC, organised by Middle Harbour Yacht Club (MHYC), will be the final hit out for the TP52 circuit season in 2024: “Next is the TP52 Gold Cup series next year. It’ll be mostly windward/leeward racing with the odd 20 mile passage race thrown in,” Neil ended.

And while some of the usual supporters, Bob Cox (Nine Dragons), Ian Box (Toybox 2), Rob Aldis (Khaleesi) and Colin Gunn and Jack Stening (Gusto) got their entries in early for the Premier IRC and ORCi classes, so did a couple of ‘newbies’.

Peter Lowndes is bringing his Lyons 49, Wine Dark Sea, for the first time. The boat underwent some changes last year, including the installation of a new mast and being set up for double handed racing.

“We’ve been doing inshore racing and the Ocean Pointscore this year, as part of our long term goal to do the 2025 Rolex Sydney Hobart (the 80^th running),” said Lowndes, who is a prolific sailor on the Sydney scene and Queensland, where Wine Dark Sea competes most years.

“I can’t remember if I’ve done the SSORC before, but certainly not with my own boat. I’ve sailed on other boats and we may have done it years ago… Our sailing calendar has been so busy over the years, it’s hard to remember it all!

“I’m always keen to take on a new regatta and new courses and race against a wider fleet. I’ll get that chance with the SSORC,” Lowndes ended.

Another familiar face in racing circles is Peter Sorensen. A versatile sailor across multiple classes from 16 foot skiffs to Sydney 38s and offshore racing yachts, ‘Sorro’ has opted for an Adams 10 this time. The former Eat My Shorts/Get It On, is now named Deep Philosophy, a play on his previous yachts’ names.

Last owned by formidable sailor, Garry Holt who leaves nothing to chance, the boat is perfectly set up.

The master of many classes, Sorro could finally meet his waterloo in the Adams 10 class, as it is rife with talented sailors. However, a mix of windward/leeward and a passage race may well suit Sorro and others of his calibre.

“The Nautilus Marine Insurance Sydney Short Ocean Racing Championship is one of the highlights of our partnership with Middle Harbour Yacht Club," said Nautilus Marine Insurance CEO Lyndon Turner.

"Two days of close racing just off Sydney. Yacht owners and crew members enjoying their passion for being on the water with an enthusiasm that is so aligned with Nautilus Marine Insurance. It is a celebration of sailing and a chance to share our insurance expertise directly with the regatta participants and Middle Harbour Yacht Club members.” 

Spectators on the water and ashore will be treated to a spectacle as both day’s races will start and finish in Watsons Bay. Camp Cove and the walkway around the headland are perfect land viewing platforms.

Standard entries for NMISSORC close on Friday 15 November, so hurry. Late entries will be accepted up until Wednesday 20 November.

For entry and Notice of Race, please visit: www.ssorc.mhyc.com.au 

Di Pearson/MHYC media

Read more: Entries shaping up nicely for 2024 Nautilus Marine Insurance Sydney Short Ocean Racing Championship

Zhik Womens Sprint Series Announced

The Zhik Womens Sprint Series will be held on Sunday 3 November 2024.

This new regatta offers a series of short races with a round robin and final series in Melges 20 lightweight sportsboats. 

Organisers are hoping that provided one-design equipment will enable a more diverse group of women to participate and the short course racing format will be more exciting and engaging.

There will be an opportunity for training in the Melges 20s on the Saturday afternoon before a 9am briefing on the Sunday and racing getting underway at 10.30am.

Following one final race to decide the placegetters in the afternoon, there will be live music, canapes and the prizegiving back at the club.

“We are looking forward to having a fun and exciting event on November 3 and are thrilled to announce that Zhik have come on board as event sponsor,” said MHYC Sailing Committee member Katie O’Mara.

“Zhik are providing some fantastic prizes for the placegetters and every crew member at the prizegiving will be in the lucky draw for a Zhik OFS 800 Jacket,” she said.

The Notice of Race is published and entry is now open via the event webpage.  The event is limited to 12 teams and priority will be given to MHYC members, but sailors from other Sydney clubs are also encouraged to enter.

For any enquiries, email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or call the MHYC Sailing Office on 8969 3103 (Wednesday to Saturday).

Photo:  MHYC’s Melges 20 fleet will be used for the Zhik Womens Sprint Series (photo by Marg Fraser-Martin)

Read more: Zhik Womens Sprint Series Announced