The River Derwent is currently bustling with yachts and yachties as the Bellerive Yacht Club celebrates its centenary this year. Since its humble beginnings in 1926, when a shed was converted into a well-furnished clubhouse, the club has grown to boast over 1,000 members and has established itself as one of Tasmania’s premier boating locations following a recent marina upgrade.
The BYC Centenary Committee is developing a program of celebratory events for members and the community, with plans to publish a book commemorating the club’s 100-year history and feature exciting sailing re-enactments.
Commodore Hughie Lewis, a prominent figure in Tasmanian sailing, is thrilled to be leading the club during this milestone year. He expressed his excitement for the planned events, highlighting the discovery of fascinating historical insights about the club and its members.
Among the celebrations, BYC is set to host the 2026 Banjo’s Shoreline Crown Series Bellerive Regatta, a significant highlight of the centenary year. Additionally, the 2026 Tasmanian Women’s Keelboat Regatta will showcase female participation in the sailing community.
The Banjo’s Shoreline Crown Series Bellerive runs from Friday, 20th February to Sunday, 22nd February, featuring Tasmania’s biggest combined keelboat and off-the-beach sailing regatta accessible to sailors of all ages and classes. This year’s event will also include the Tasmanian Yachting Championship for keelboats.
To enter the regatta, visit: https://byc.org.au/racing/banjos-shoreline-crown-series/
The Tasmanian Women’s Keelboat Regatta (TWKR) will take place on Saturday, 14th March 2026, centred on community engagement and promoting women’s roles in sailing. The event encourages women of all ages to participate as sailors or volunteers, demonstrating the inclusivity of sailing.
The first race will commence at 9.30 am, concluding in time for onshore festivities including food, live bands, and a prize giving ceremony.
To participate in the TWKR, go to: https://www.revolutionise.com.au/belleriveyc/events/341776
A ‘Come and Try Sailing’ event will precede the TWKR on Friday, 13th February from 4:30 pm to 7 pm, offering young female sailors the chance to skipper an Elliott 6-metre keelboat. This initiative is backed by Australian Sailing’s ‘Sail Our Way’ program and will take place at the Royal Yacht Club of Tasmania.
Join ‘Come and Try Sailing’ at: https://www.revolutionise.com.au/belleriveyc/events/341639
Experienced instructors will mentor attendees, covering aspects of sailing including boat preparation, safety, and performance tips.
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