Royal Queensland Yacht Squadron Archives

Porsche Centre Brisbane Named Major Partner For Manly Finn Championships

The 2026 Finn World Sailing Championships in Manly will be backed by Porsche Centre Brisbane, with the partnership supporting a February regatta series hosted at Royal Queensland Yacht Squadron.

Partnership Announcement In Manly

Porsche Centre Brisbane has been confirmed as a major event partner for the 2026 Finn World Sailing Championships. The partnership is linked to a February 2026 program hosted by Royal Queensland Yacht Squadron in Manly, Queensland.

The partnership involves Royal Queensland Yacht Squadron and the International Finn Association of Australia, with the regattas scheduled across several consecutive events during the month.

February 2026 Regatta Schedule

The Manly program includes the Australian Finn National Championships, the Finn Gold Cup and the Finn World Masters.

Provided information lists different start and finish dates for the Australian Finn National Championships and the Finn Gold Cup. The partnership announcement lists the Nationals running 7–12 February 2026 and the Gold Cup running 13–19 February 2026, while the event information page lists the Nationals as 7–10 February 2026 and the Gold Cup as 12–19 February 2026.

The Finn World Masters is listed consistently as 20–27 February 2026.

Event Context And Significance

The Finn is a single-handed dinghy that previously competed as an Olympic class, debuting at the Helsinki Olympics in 1952. The class is known for demanding on-water competition at high performance levels.

The February series is expected to attract more than 500 competitors and supporters, according to the partnership announcement. The same source states the Finn Gold Cup will return to Brisbane for the first time in 50 years, and the Finn World Masters will be contested in the Southern Hemisphere for the first time, running back-to-back with the Gold Cup.

Manly Finn Championships — *Photo Credit: RQYS/Facebook*

Host Venue Background

Royal Queensland Yacht Squadron is based on the waterfront in Manly and was formed in 1885. The club hosts regular championship racing for members and also stages national and international regattas on Moreton Bay.

Community Response Online

Social media responses to the announcement indicate positive anticipation for the February 2026 schedule. Comments referenced hosting and servicing multiple Finn events across the month and described the period as a major sailing month for Manly.

What Happens Next

Event updates, official notices, volunteer information and entry links are being managed through the event channels listed for each regatta. Organisers are continuing preparations ahead of the February 2026 series in Manly.

Published 18-Dec-2025

Manly to Host Top Sailors at Sail Brisbane 2025

Manly’s Royal Queensland Yacht Squadron (RQYS) is gearing up to host The Yacht Sales Co. Sail Brisbane 2025, bringing a large field of Australia’s sailors together for five days of racing on Moreton Bay.

Read: Sail Brisbane 2025 Heads to Royal Queensland Yacht Squadron With Strong Local Focus

Scheduled from 16 to 20 December 2025, Sail Brisbane will take place from the squadron’s base in Manly, Queensland. The regatta forms part of the broader summer sailing circuit and attracts competitors from around Australia and the Asia‑Pacific region.

Racing at Sail Brisbane will span a broad range of classes, from junior and youth fleets to Olympic and invited divisions. The event’s multi‑class format ensures sailors of differing experience levels can compete and grow, with diverse fleets on multiple race courses.

Photo credit: Facebook/Australian Sailing

This year’s regatta is presented in partnership with Australian Sailing, underlining the joint commitment to developing sailing pathways across the sport. The collaboration between RQYS and the national body supports consistent competition standards and fosters participation for sailors at all stages of their development.

Included within the regatta programme is the Queensland WingFoil State Championship, adding another layer of competition for foiling athletes. Sail Brisbane also serves as a lead‑in event to several major championships scheduled at RQYS in the months ahead, providing valuable racing experience for participants.

Competitors heading to Manly can find detailed information, such as the Notice of Race, safety requirements, accommodation, and logistics via the RQYS regatta page. Pre‑regatta coaching clinics are available for sailors seeking extra preparation, offering structured guidance for junior, youth and adult participants.

For spectators and supporters ashore, daily updates, results and event information will be shared through the Royal Queensland Yacht Squadron’s channels and affiliated media. Live result services and summaries help keep the community connected to the action out on the bay throughout the week.

The event’s location at Moreton Bay offers a scenic setting for competitive sailing, with courses laid out against the backdrop of the bay’s waters and Queensland’s coastal fringe. Local sailing families, visitors and enthusiasts are encouraged to follow the regatta and support the sailors in their classes.

Read: Over 1,400 People Have Their Say on Manly and Lota Master Plan

As Sail Brisbane 2025 approaches, Manly and surrounding communities can look forward to welcoming a lively week of racing as athletes from across the region vie for honours and sharpen their skills on the water.

Published 15-December-2025

Sail Brisbane 2025 Heads to Royal Queensland Yacht Squadron With Strong Local Focus

Photo Credit: Royal Queensland Yacht Squadron/Facebook

Royal Queensland Yacht Squadron is set to host a major multi-class sailing event that brings young sailors, elite athletes and local families together in Manly for a week of racing on Moreton Bay.

Growing Local Participation

Sail Brisbane 2025 runs from 16 to 20 December at the Royal Queensland Yacht Squadron grounds in Manly, with competitors launching from the Manly Boat Harbour into the bay. Sail Brisbane draws sailors from across Australia and the Asia Pacific region. This year’s partnership with Australian Sailing strengthens its role as a development event.

*Photo Credit: Royal Queensland Yacht Squadron/Facebook*

Young sailors, club members and visiting athletes share the same racing space across youth dinghies, Olympic classes and foiling fleets. The event supports pathways for emerging sailors through planning, coaching and community involvement. Organisers stated the regatta continues to evolve through cooperation among clubs and community participants.

Partnership With Australian Sailing

The partnership places the national authority alongside Royal Queensland Yacht Squadron throughout the competition. Australian Sailing supports coaching pathways, club access and consistent standards across the country.

Organisers noted that the collaboration supports coaching and development, helping younger sailors move into higher classes. The timing of the regatta also helps local and visiting athletes prepare for the broader summer racing season.

Wide Range Of Classes

The regatta includes junior, youth and Olympic level classes such as ILCA, 29er, 49er, 49er FX, 420, 470, Flying Eleven, Optimist, Open Skiff, Sabot, Tasar, RS Feva, Nacra classes, Hobie 16, and foiling divisions including iQFoil, Windfoil and Wingfoil.

This mix allows families to attend and support a wide range of competitors while experienced sailors use the event for summer preparation. Sailing instructions, safety details and support boat registration are managed through the squadron noticeboard.

Community And Visitor Impact

Manly’s harbour precinct and nearby accommodation are likely to see increased activity as sailors and supporters travel to the area. The waterfront setting gives competitors direct access to the bay and keeps families, volunteers and visitors close to the action.

Royal Queensland Yacht Squadron encourages early accommodation planning for travelling teams and provides resources to help visiting groups prepare before racing. At the time of reporting, entries remain open through the regatta page.

Published 03-December-2025

Set Sail for Brisbane Race Week 2025: Thrilling Races and Festivities Await

The thrill of the open water returns to Moreton Bay this May as Brisbane Race Week 2025 sets sail for another spectacular showcase of skill, speed, and camaraderie. From 2-7 May, sailors and spectators alike will converge for five days of exhilarating racing and lively celebrations both on and off the water.

Read: Royal Queensland Yacht Squadron Welcomes Over 230 Sailors for Sail Brisbane

Now in its third year, the regatta continues to grow in prestige, attracting a diverse fleet of racing yachts, cruising monohulls, and multihulls.

Photo credit: Brisbane Race Week/Facebook

The event is set against the picturesque backdrop of Moreton Bay, with much of the action centred around Manly, the home of the Royal Queensland Yacht Squadron. As one of the premier sailing events in South East Queensland, Brisbane Race Week fosters a sense of friendly rivalry between regional sailing clubs, each vying for victory in a range of unique and challenging courses.

Committee member and competitor Anton Prange highlights the event’s growing appeal, noting its combination of competitive racing and a vibrant social scene as key reasons for its popularity.

The regatta kicks off in high-energy fashion on Friday, with a Formula-1-style “hot laps” race around Green Island, where crews will compete to complete the most laps in a three-hour window. The excitement continues onshore with an opening fiesta featuring Mexican cuisine and live entertainment at the Royal Queensland Yacht Squadron.

Saturday and Sunday will see crews navigate handcrafted short courses, testing their skill and coordination as they race against the clock. Evening festivities will keep the energy high, with themed celebrations at both the Royal Queensland Yacht Squadron and neighbouring Wynnum Manly Yacht Club. The much-anticipated Texan Night at Wynnum Manly Yacht Club on Sunday reinforces the playful cross-club rivalry, offering a fun-filled evening of food, music, and camaraderie.

Monday’s long passage race provides an opportunity for yachts to stretch their legs against the stunning backdrop of Brisbane and Moreton Island. The day concludes with a community fundraiser—Burgers, Beer, and Bingo—supporting the Making Waves Foundation, which promotes inclusivity in sailing through programs for people with disabilities and disadvantaged youth.

Read: Freedom Boat Club in Manly Joins EcoMarines in Moreton Bay Cleanup Mission

Following a well-earned rest on Labour Day, the final race on Wednesday promises to be the ultimate test of strategy and endurance. The pursuit race, with staggered start times based on handicaps, will be a thrilling spectacle as crews battle to be the first across the finish line. The week culminates with a closing celebration and award presentations at the newly renovated Royal Queensland Yacht Squadron Bistro.

With early bird registration available until 26 April 2025 and daily casual passes for $38, Brisbane Race Week 2025 invites sailors of all backgrounds to take part in an unforgettable week of racing, rivalry, and revelry. For more information and to register, visit brisbaneraceweek.au.

Published 25-March-2025

Royal Queensland Yacht Squadron Welcomes Over 230 Sailors for Sail Brisbane

As summer reaches its peak, the waters off Moreton Bay have been transformed into a vibrant stage for sailing excellence with the commencement of Sail Brisbane 2024. This prestigious regatta, co-hosted by Manly’s Royal Queensland Yacht Squadron and Australian Sailing, has drawn over 230 sailors this week, solidifying its position as one of the most significant events on Australia’s sailing calendar.

Read: Former Manly Hospital Site to Become Health and Wellbeing Precinct

A unique blend of youth and experience at Royal Queensland Yacht Squadron

Reflecting sailing’s inclusive spirit, Sail Brisbane has united an extraordinary range of competitors. The boat park at Royal Queensland Yacht Squadron is alive with activity, as seven-year-old novices prepare their dinghies alongside seasoned Olympians. This dynamic environment fosters unique opportunities for mentorship, inspiration, and a shared passion for the sport.

Championship racing across multiple disciplines

Running from 17 to 21 December, the regatta features four distinct racing courses spread across Moreton Bay’s pristine waters. The Alpha course is home to the high-performance classes, including the 49er and 49er FX, while the Bravo course hosts traditional single-handed classes such as Finn and ILCA. On the Charlie course, junior sailors in Flying 11s and Optimists compete, while the Delta course showcases cutting-edge foiling vessels that push the boundaries of sailing technology.

Inspiring the next generation of sailors

Sail Brisbane plays a vital role in fostering the next generation of sailing champions. By racing alongside their sporting heroes, young competitors witness firsthand the dedication and skill required to excel in the sport. The regatta’s inclusive format not only inspires but also prepares aspiring athletes for future success on national and international stages.

Read: Freedom Boat Club in Manly Joins EcoMarines in Moreton Bay Cleanup Mission

As the final major sailing event of 2024, Sail Brisbane is a celebration of the strength and vitality of Australia’s sailing community. With racing continuing through to Saturday, 21 December, the waters off Moreton Bay will shine as the backdrop for intense competition and camaraderie.

Published 17-December-2024

Historic Manly Mansion Hits Market for First Time in 60 Years

Photo Credit: realestate.com.au

The historic Cloncrew estate at 12 Valetta Street, an original Spanish Mission-style Manly mansion, hits the market for the first time in 60 years after being owned by the same family for seven decades.

Built in 1938 by renowned Brisbane architect Eric Percival Trewern for barrister Dennis O’Connor, who had longstanding ties to Manly dating back to 1898, the sprawling 2,548 square meter hilltop property offers a grand blend of Spanish mission architecture and Art Deco design.

Its prime waterfront location captures stunning panoramic views of Moreton Bay and the Royal Queensland Yacht Squadron marina that many Manly residents know and love.

“Cloncrew is truly one of our area’s landmark estates and most significant remaining historic properties,” said Danny Day of Ocean Realty, who is marketing the property. “Its original condition is immaculately preserved.”

Indeed, many of Cloncrew’s breathtaking original details remain intact, including soaring ornate ceilings, glazed lead-light double doors, walls veneered in rich Queensland timbers, and the home’s pièce de résistance — a spectacular semicircular Piazza terrace overlooking the bay.

Other standout period features are the grand living room’s cantilevered fireplace with Helidon freestone and carved timber mantle, the elegant dining room with servery window, and the opulent main bathroom’s Terrazzo floors and handmade Italian tiled shower.

While the kitchen has been updated, Day notes there is opportunity for the new owners to pursue further modernisation or additions like a glass atrium, subject to heritage approvals to preserve Cloncrew’s history and architectural integrity.

The property has already drawn interest from local buyers, as well as house hunters from Sydney and Melbourne, just days after hitting the market.

“This is really a once-in-a-generation opportunity to own an irreplaceable piece of Manly’s rich history and community fabric,” Day said. “I envision the new owners will be blown away by Cloncrew’s beauty and pedigree, and committed to honouring its past while adding their own vision.”

An indicative sale price is available by application, reflecting the property’s immense historic value and significance to Manly’s character. Locals will surely be watching with anticipation as this iconic estate finds its new custodians.

Published 29-February-2024

Man Dead After Jumping Into Waters at Manly Harbour

Photo Credit: myPolice Queensland Police News

Authorities have confirmed the death of a 46-year-old man after jumping into the waters at Manly Harbour late last night.

A frantic search operation was done after he failed to resurface.

**A search operation was done after he failed to resurface.**
Photo Credit: Facebook / The Bay Today

The Royal Queensland Yacht Squadron, overseeing the marina where the incident occurred, expressed deep sadness and shock. CEO Karen Baldwin conveyed the sorrow felt by their team, mentioning the lack of on-site staff during the late hours when the tragedy unfolded.

**CEO Karen Baldwin of Royal Queensland Yacht Squadron**
Photo Credit: LinkedIn

Emergency services swiftly responded to the call for help at Davenport Drive, near the Royal Queensland Yacht Squadron. Police, fire, rescue, and ambulance services mobilized immediately, commencing an extensive water search at first light this morning.

The search, involving Water Police, Police divers, and specialized emergency units, concluded tragically with the discovery of a body. The process of formal identification is underway, with authorities preparing a report for the coroner.

This incident adds to recent tragedies in bayside waters, further impacting the close-knit community. Just days ago, another incident claimed three lives when a boat capsized near Green Island in Moreton Bay during a fishing trip on Boxing Day.

The CEO, Karen Baldwin, highlighted the festive season and expressed profound condolences for the family and friends affected by this unexpected loss. The entire community mourns alongside the family, sharing in their sorrow during what should have been a joyful time of the year.

As investigations continue into the circumstances surrounding this heartbreaking event, the community grapples with the shock and sadness of this sudden loss. The residents of Manly are urged to support each other during this difficult time, extending their thoughts and sympathies to those impacted.

Published 2-January-2024

Entries Open for 2023-2024 Australian Hobie Cat National Championships in Manly

Excitement is building across Australia as the highly anticipated 2023-2024 Australian Hobie Cat National Championships, hosted by the Royal Queensland Yacht Squadron in Manly, open for entries.

The championship tour follows the grand success of the 50th Australian Championships held in late December 2022. Expectations for this year’s event are sky-high, making it the highlight of the Australian summer sailing calendar.

The Queensland Hobie Cat Association has been working hard to make sure this year’s championships are a big success and has enlisted help from Yacht Share, Sunstate Watersports, Cat Covers, and Gill to make it all happen.

Prior to the Brisbane event, the Championship Tour is set for several exciting stops:

Cat Classic: Nedlands Yacht Club, WA | September 24-25, 2023
Bill Cheal Memorial Regatta: Toukley Sailing Club, NSW | September 30 – October 1, 2023
Phil Johnston Memorial 14ft Regatta: Mannering Park Amateur Sailing Club, NSW | October 14-15, 2023
NSW State Championships: Top Gun Regatta, Kurnell Catamaran Club, NSW | November 4-5, 2023
Beware the Bullets: Palm Beach Sailing Club, NSW | November 18-19, 2023
Victorian Catamaran Championships: McCrae Yacht Club, VIC | November 26-27, 2023
Sail Brisbane: Royal Queensland Yacht Squadron, QLD | December 10-11, 2023

CHECK THE EVENTS CALENDAR

With a lineup of such thrilling events leading up to the Australian Hobie Cat National Championships, sailors and sailing enthusiasts alike are in for an action-packed and unforgettable season of competitive sailing.

For those eager to participate, all the registration details and important information regarding the Australian Championships can be found on the Hobie Cat Nationals’ official site. This includes the Notice of Race, a schedule of events, and information on local accommodations. Prospective entrants can easily register for both Series 1 and Series 2 by visiting the homepage, which will redirect them to RQYS.

Published 29-Sept-2023

Mara Stransky of Manly’s Royal Queensland Yacht Squadron Awarded Australia’s Female Sailor of the Year

Olympian Mara Stransky of the Royal Queensland Yacht Squadron in Manly has been named Female Sailor of the Year at the Australian Sailing Awards honouring the sports and its community.

Mara proved deserving of the award following her recent achievements at the ILCA 6 Women’s World Championships in Oman, where she finished sixth place, the Allianz World Cup in Holland, where she was fourth, and for her astounding winning finish at the Kiel Week.

The Manly sailor, who ranks as the third-best female sailor in the world, bested Nina Curtis from Royal Prince Alfred Yacht Club and Zoe Thomson from Royal Freshwater Bay Yacht Club for the highest honour.

Meanwhile, Tom Slingsby was named the Male Sailor of the Year whilst Chris Symonds was chosen as the Para Sailor of the Year.

The Australian Sailing Awards returned to an entire face-to-face ceremony since 2019. Below is the full list of winners:

Male Sailor of the Year
Tom Slingsby OAM – Gosford Sailing Club (NSW)

Female Sailor of the Year
Mara Stransky – Royal Queensland Yacht Squadron & Queensland Laser Association (QLD)

Youth Sailor of the Year
Evie Saunders – Manly Yacht Club (NSW)

Para Sailor of the Year
Chris Symonds – Wynyard Yacht Club, Australian Hansa Class Association Inc & Sailability Tasmania (TAS)

Offshore Sailor of the Year
Lisa Blair – Manly Yacht Club & Cruising Yacht Club of Australia (NSW)

Coach of the Year
Ben Durham – Royal Freshwater Bay Yacht Club (WA)

Club of the Year
Newcastle Cruising Yacht Club (NSW)

Volunteer of the Year
Peter Kinsman – Rye Yacht Club (VIC)

Instructor of the Year
Holly Hunt – Royal Freshwater Bay Yacht Club (WA)

Official of the Year
Andre Blasse – Black Rock Yacht Club/Australian OK Dinghy Association (VIC)

Sport Promotion Award
Nick Bez – Windsurfer Class Association of Australia (VIC)

Sport Professional Award
Michael Robinson – Keppel Bay Sailing Club (QLD)

SheSails Award
Mooloolaba Women’s Keelboat Regatta – Mooloolaba Yacht Club (QLD)

Sustainability Award
Marine Environment Committee – Fremantle Sailing Club (WA)

President’s Award
Sean Hogan (VIC)

About the Royal Queensland Yacht Squadron in Manly

Meanwhile, the Royal Queensland Yacht Squadron is one of Queensland’s oldest and most prestigious sailing and cruising clubs. Since 1885, the organisation has supported sailing by training potential sailors on all levels.

The Royal Queensland Yacht Squadron was Australia’s first sailing club to offer women membership in 1975, per past Commodore Bill Kirby.

“I well remember the late P/C John Hattrick meeting with P/C David Bowly and myself early in 1975 and telling us it simply wasn’t acceptable for the Squadron not to welcome Ladies into our midst and for them not to be able to take part in all facets of Club life. David was Vice Commodore at the time and I was the Rear.

“P/C John’s proposals were enthusiastically approved at a Special General Meeting of the Members and as they say, ‘The rest is history.'”

Soon after, the Ladies’ Committee raised money for the Snack Bar and held sailing classes for kids during scholl holidays. They also established the ArtArama, an arts and crafts festival that was popular in Manly for many years.

Manly’s Royal Queensland Yacht Squadron Invites You to a New Year Family Feast

Another transition is about to happen as one year ends and another begins. With everyone down for celebrating the New Year to symbolically welcome new beginnings, the Royal Queensland Yacht Squadron in Manly is hosting a fun-filled family event on the 31st of Dec 2019. What better way to start a brand new year than by enjoying the last night of 2019 with your loved ones!

The New Year’s Eve celebration at the Royal Queensland Yacht Squadron will kick off at 5:30 p.m. until the first hour of 2020 rolls. Dubbed the “Seafood Smorgasbord and Movie Night Under the Stars,” this party will include a generous table spread filled with healthy and delicious food, a feast for the children and two fun movies at the lawn!

Adult guests may indulge in salt and pepper calamari, spicy gumbo, grilled prawns, mussels, sand crab, oysters, as well as rolled pork, sumac grilled chicken, and a generous helping of fruits and salad greens at the smorgasbord. With a choice as generous as this, it’s fitting to relish and reflect on how good you’ve got it in 2019 whilst you sit, dine and look forward to 2020 overlooking the gorgeous view of the Manly Harbour.

*Photo Credit: Royal Queensland Yacht Squadron – Social/Facebook*

The kids, on the other hand, may enjoy a special menu consisting of wood-fired pizza, hotdogs and slushies. These treats are perfect for enjoying the movies on the big screen set up at the lawn.

The film screening will promptly start at 5:30 p.m. followed by the next movie at 7:30 p.m.

In lieu of the planned fireworks, the Manly Chamber of Commerce has made a charitable donation this year.

Reservations are at $85 per person (adults) and $25 (children). For bookings and inquiries to the Royal Queensland Yacht Squadron New Year’s Eve party, email reservations@rqys.com.au or phone 07 3396 8666.

The Royal Queensland Yacht Squadron at the Royal Esplanade is one of the oldest and most prestigious sailing clubs in Queensland. For generations, this bayside venue has also been a popular choice for events and celebrations.