February 16, 2011 SM11/002
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The overwhelming success of Sail Mooloolaba’s inaugural regatta last June has resulted in significant sponsorship in 2011 from Events Queensland Regional Development Program (EQRDP), Sunshine Coast Destination Ltd and the Sunshine Coast Council (SCC).
Attracting over 200 junior, youth and adult competitors from all over Australia’s east coast last year, the two-day regatta will offer up to 18 different classes in 2011. Pint-sized dinghies will register alongside, sports boats, Etchells, monohulls and multihulls over three different courses both in the river and on the open water off Mooloolaba Beach.
Tracey Johnstone, Regatta Director, acknowledged the value of the sponsorship commitment from State and Local governments. “Early recognition from these sponsors has allowed us to extend Sail Mooloolaba into a week-long celebration of sailing,” Ms Johnstone said today.
“Following the regatta over the weekend of June 4-5th, we have an unprecedented line up of activities showcasing sailing, ranging from Match Racing, to Sailability junior and adult disabled sailing to shore-based radio controlled yachting,” Ms Johnstone continued.
Early expressions of interest from all classes indicate that Sail Mooloolaba 2011 will exceed previous attendance figures, attracting both more participants and supporters from around the nation.
A particularly warm welcome awaits those who have overcome hardship to reach Mooloolaba. The ‘celebration of sailing’ coincides with Queensland Week, dedicated in 2011 to ‘recognising the selfless heroes of the floods that devastated 70 percent of the state’. Spirit and mateship are essential qualities in the sailing fraternity.
In 2012 Sail Mooloolaba will expand still further to incorporate the annual and iconic Etchells Australasian Winter Championship, making it the largest multi-class annual winter sailing event in Australia.
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For further information, please see www.sailmooloolaba.yachting.org.au or contact Holly Kenny, Media Manager, on 5443 3436 or email hollykenny@bigpond.com.