News

The Sunshine Coast Radio Sailing Club hosted the 2025 IOM QLD State Championship on 1st and 2nd November at Lake Kawana. The regatta attracted 21 participants, dividing the competition into two fleets with a system of four up and four down relegation. Prior to the event, the region experienced severe tropical thunderstorms, lightning, and heavy rainfall, prompting concern from the organising committee regarding weekend conditions.

On Saturday, favourable weather allowed seven races to be conducted, supported by northeast winds ranging between 5 and 12 knots. Race Officer Geoff Morris selected the Eastern course and oversaw races comprising two or three laps. Six Buoybots were utilised to adjust the start line and windward leg length as needed.

Lunch consisted of Subway rolls and cake, accompanied by a selection of beverages including water, soft drinks, and fruit poppers. At the conclusion of day one, Greg Torpy led with 10 points, followed by Aaron Farrar with 21 points and Garth Halton with 22 points.

Competition throughout the day was intense, particularly around the top mark on the opening leg and at the finish line. All skippers competed vigorously for the leading four positions in B fleet and endeavoured to avoid last-place standings in A fleet.

Racing concluded at 3:30 pm as thunderstorm clouds gathered in the south. Thanks to the coordinated efforts of the 21 volunteers, all equipment including gazebos, tables, dinghy, trailer, and generator, was promptly packed away just before heavy rain commenced.

Sunday 2nd November:

Racing began at 10am on the Western course with a 5-knot NW wind, offering a clear view from the control area. After three races, shifting NE winds required moving to the Eastern course, efficiently managed by Craig Wiley and the Buoybots. After lunch, the NE breeze intensified with gusts up to 20 knots, challenging skippers who all kept their A rigs. Winds held steady between 10-15 knots. Lunch was meat and salad wraps with cold drinks. Sunny weather prevailed despite forecasts of rain, reaching 29°C. Thanks to all skippers for making it an enjoyable event.

The final results were:

OPEN

1st Greg Torpy

2nd Garth Halton

3rd Aaron Farrar

4th Lindsay Walker

5th Ben Thorburn

MASTERS ( 65-70 )

1st Simon Kellett

2nd Philip Wells

3rd Paul Bergamini

Grand Masters ( 71+ )

1st Glen Fitzgerald

2nd Mark Beneke

3rd Derick Warne