Matt Setton’s Ker 11.3, The Jackal, has claimed line honours in the 2025 Melbourne to Hobart ‘Westcoaster’ Yacht Race, finishing in a time of 3 days, 5 hours, 22 minutes and 23 seconds.
In a closely contested race, The Jackal led throughout from Melbourne to Hobart, securing victory despite strong competition from Matt Fahey’s Sydney 38, Faster Forward, and a late challenge from Justin Brenan’s Lidgard 36, Alien.
Upon arrival at Elizabeth Street Pier, Setton celebrated with his partner Katie and children Tara and Zeke. Reflecting on his win as a first-time skipper, he noted the advantages that crew experience and strategic preparation offered during the race.
“I’m pretty happy to be here, very relieved. It’s been a big year getting the boat ready,” Setton remarked. “I think our downwind speed on the second day gave us a little bit of a break from Faster Forward.” He highlighted key moments, stating, “We knew they would excel upwind, and after the initial hours, we anticipated better downwind conditions which ultimately helped us pull ahead.”
He described the experience down the West Coast as exhilarating, acknowledging a few tense moments but praising the team’s ability to navigate without incurring damage. Setton expressed gratitude for the support received, particularly from the ORCV (Ocean Racing Club of Victoria), which provided assistance in preparing for the race’s logistics and compliance.
The crew of The Jackal included Jeff Whiteside, Nigel Fellowes-Freeman, Peter Grant, Stuart Addison, Robert Buchanan, Thor Cembala, and Ronald Piang Ng, with Setton emphasising the importance of having a versatile crew capable of handling multiple roles. He credited teamwork as a key factor behind their success and acknowledged the significant contribution of Jeff Whiteside in getting the boat ready.
Notably, Setton’s first line honours victory was also marked by an abundance of wildlife, as he saw numerous pods of whales throughout the race. In addition to the line honours, he won the Sea Pilot’s Trophy for being the first boat out of Port Phillip Heads at the race’s start.
The Westcoaster, noted for its challenging 435 nautical mile course, begins with a passage across Bass Strait, continues down Tasmania’s West Coast, and navigates through the tricky waters of Storm Bay, culminating in the River Derwent.
The monohull race record, established in 2008, stands at 1 day, 17 hours, 28 minutes, and 59 seconds, set by Shortwave.
Follow the 2025 Melbourne to Hobart Yacht Race on Blue Water Tracks: https://race.bluewatertracks.com/2025-melbourne-hobart-westcoaster
Words: Jane Austin/ORCV Media
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