80th Anniversary of Vaucluse Regatta Attracts Vintage Yacht
14-Feb-2012
Photo: Vaucluse Regatta 1935. Photo by Sam Hood from the collection of the State Library of NSW.
This weekend commemorates the 80th anniversary of the Vaucluse Regatta, hosted by Vaucluse Yacht Club. The annual sailing event draws a myriad of yachts and sailing craft to race upon Sydney Harbour, and has done so since its inception in 1932.
To herald the significance of the event’s 80th anniversary, the traditional timber yacht Maluka will sail in the regatta. Historically, Maluka competed in the first ever Vaucluse Regatta held in 1932, and will return to Watsons Bay this Saturday, 80 years on, to compete in the long-standing event.
Maluka, a 28-foot gaff-rigged yacht was originally built of Huon Pine in 1932, and boasted brand new lines and cutting edge technology back in the old days. She has since been completely re-furbished by owner Sean Langman, who has maintained many of the traditional and original features of the classic yacht. This weekend she will take to the waters of Watsons Bay and see how she fares against many more modern yachts.
Newspaper articles from the early 1930’s talk of ‘scenes of aquatic vigour’ and yachts ‘heeling over til their decks were well a-wash’ during the early years. Yachts, skiffs, rowers and motor boats all enjoyed ‘splendid sailing conditions’, whilst on-shore there were pillow-fights and treasure hunts.
This Saturday, the Vaucluse Yacht Club and event sponsors SLAM and Winning Appliances invite owners of yachts, OK dinghies, Vee-Esses, Lasers and Laser Radials to compete in three races held on Watsons Bay. The first race will start at 12.45pm, preceded by a briefing in the Clubhouse at 11.30am. A barbecue for competitors and presentation of trophies will be held after racing. All entries welcome – enter on the day, or via the Vaucluse Yacht Club website: www.vaucluseyachtclub.com.au. For more information phone VYC on 9337 5775.
By Erin McKnight
For more information:
www.vaucluseyachtclub.com.au
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