Whitworths Tackers Boat Program Recipients Announced

Whitworths Tackers Boat Program Recipients Announced

The 2026 Whitworths Tackers Boat Program will support nine Discover Sailing Centres with discounted Tackers boats.

The following media release has been supplied by Australian Sailing for AFLOAT Magazine readers.

Australian Sailing is proud to announce the successful recipients of the 2026 Whitworths Tackers Boat Program, with Tackers Centres across Australia set to benefit from this long-standing initiative that continues to grow grassroots participation in sailing.

Supported by Whitworths Marine & Leisure in partnership with OziOpti, the program enables Discover Sailing Centres (DSCs) to apply to purchase Tackers Boats at a greater than 50% discount which plays a vital role in equipping them with the resources they need to deliver fun, accessible and high-quality Tackers programs.

By reducing the cost of acquiring Tackers fleets, the initiative enables more DSCs to introduce children to sailing and build strong participation pathways within their communities.

The Tackers program is designed as a fun, games-based introduction to sailing for kids, helping thousands of young Australians get out on the water each year and develop a lifelong connection with the sport.

In 2026, the following nine DSCs have been successful in their applications:

  • Balmoral Water Sports Centre (NSW)
  • Brisbane Sailing Squadron (QLD)
  • Carnarvon Yacht Club (WA)
  • East Fremantle Sailing Club (WA)
  • Hillary’s Yacht Club (WA)
  • Lake Cootharaba Sailing Association (QLD)
  • Port Kembla Sailing Club (NSW)
  • Royal Brighton Yacht Club (VIC)
  • Royal Perth Yacht Club (WA)

These DSCs have demonstrated a strong commitment to growing junior participation and delivering engaging Tackers programs that focus on fun, safety and skill development. With access to Tackers boats through the scheme, it will assist them in expanding their offerings and welcoming more young sailors into the sport.

“Whitworths Marine & Leisure are proud to support sailing clubs across Australia with the Whitworths Tackers Boat Program. Congratulations to the successful clubs receiving Whitworths Tackers,” said Whitworths Managing Director Sean Gray.

“Whitworths together with the clubs are helping to grow the next generation of sailors. We hope the clubs enjoy their new Tackers fleet, deliver great sailing experiences, and inspire the young sailors in their community.”

By continuing to invest in grassroots sailing, the program not only strengthens club capacity but also ensures a sustainable future for the sport by creating opportunities for the next generation of sailors to get involved, build confidence and stay connected to their local sailing communities.

Australian Sailing thanks Whitworths and OziOpti for their support of this important program and looks forward to seeing even more kids on the water through Tackers programs.

This information was supplied by Australian Sailing. AFLOAT Magazine will continue to share important marine news Australia updates. Read more coverage at AFLOAT Magazine.