Sailing enthusiasts yet to register for the Festival of Sails can still jump on-board, with event organisers extending the entry deadline for the 2019 regatta.
The Royal Geelong Yacht Club has extended the entry deadline for the three-day regatta, which runs from January 26 to 28, until midnight, Wednesday January 16, 2019.
The RGYC is also waiving the late fee for boats which have entered after January 11, 2019.
The Festival of Sails, which this year celebrates its 176th anniversary, is Australia’s biggest celebration of sailing and the largest keelboat sailing regatta in the southern hemisphere.
Festival of Sails Chairman Stuart Dickson said with 263 keelboat entries already confirmed, the 2019 event was shaping up to be a great weekend of sailing.
Mr Dickson said the decision to extend the entry deadline was made to encourage those who hadn't yet entered to be a part of the 2019 event.
“With such great numbers already, we want to make sure nobody misses out and that people have every opportunity to participate. The Festival of Sails caters for all levels of sailing, from high performance racing machines to family cruisers and junior sailors. It is all about great sailing, and having fun,” he said.
This is the final opportunity for owners and skippers to enter the Festival of Sails, as no late entries will be accepted after Wednesday, January 16.
Sailing on Corio Bay is expected to be spectacular this Australia Day long weekend, with the current long range weather forecast predicting temperatures in the mid-20s and breezes of 10 to 15 knots.
Tens of thousands of people are expected to flock to the Geelong waterfront during the Festival of Sails to enjoy all of the fun, action and excitement of the iconic event.
The Shoreside Festival, presented by Geelong Connected Communities will feature a variety of waterfront activities including free live music, Come and Try Sailing, stand up paddle boarding and virtual sailing. A Regional Artisan Fair in Fairnie Park will showcase gourmet goodies from Geelong, Great Ocean Road, The Bellarine Peninsula and Golden Plains.
