Thirty-six all-female crews are set to compete in the 34th Australian Women’s Keelboat Regatta (AWKR), taking place on Port Phillip from 5-8 June 2026, hosted by the Royal Melbourne Yacht Squadron. This pioneering event, the first of its kind in Australia, continues to attract a diverse range of sailors, from novices to experienced racers, including high-profile offshore competitors. Among them is Sarah Clough, daughter of the late Gai Clough, the first female Commodore of a yacht club in Australia and a key figure in establishing this regatta.
Participants hail from various regions, including New Zealand, Northern Territory, South Australia, Queensland, New South Wales, Tasmania, and Victoria, with crews flying in for three days of racing that includes both round-the-buoys and windward/leeward formats.
Monica Jones, co-chair of the event alongside Celia Dymond, expressed pride in the number of yachts participating this year and anticipation for a weekend filled with competitive sailing and entertainment onshore. In addition to the main trophies, awards will be presented for categories such as Novice Helm, Most Improved, Sportsmanship, Rohan Brownlee Leadership and Endeavour Award, and Best Performed Owner/Skipper.
To prepare competitors, a Rules night was held on 21 May, featuring insights from Darren Eger, with a link provided for those unable to attend in person.
The event relies heavily on the support of local volunteers known as Boat Buoys, who assist with repairs and ensure that the yachts, many of which are generously loaned by their owners, are race-ready.
Key sponsors, including Bendigo Community Bank Elwood, highlight their commitment to community and women’s empowerment through sport. Carole Mackie, Chairwoman of Bendigo Community Bank, noted the importance of their sponsorship in fostering local initiatives.
Other supporters include Rothwell, AMS, Melbourne Debt Collectors, and Rebecca Badenoch from Culshaw Miller Badenoch, along with Doyle Sails, who will provide sail repairs during the event. Notable brands like Ronstan, Musto, Boating Central, and Savage Wharf have donated prizes, while local beverage sponsors like Wine X Sam, Jimmy Rum, and Drivers Beer will ensure participants stay refreshed post-racing.
Generous boat owners who lend their vessels play a crucial role in the regatta’s success, fostering camaraderie and support among the teams.
Thanks to the contributions of sponsors and volunteers, participants can look forward to an exciting and memorable experience both on the water and ashore.
For further information, visit: https://awkr.com.au/boat-entry/
Follow the regatta on social media:
Facebook: www.facebook.com/AustralianWomensKeelboatRegatta
Instagram: www.instagram.com/awkr.rmys
Twitter: @awkr1 https://twitter.com/awkr1
#AustralianWomensKeelboatRegatta #awkr.rmys #WomenInSailing
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