East Coast MG14 Regatta makes waves at Queens Lake in Laurieton

QUEENS Lake Sailing Club hosted the inaugural East Coast MG14 Regatta over the October long weekend, drawing competitors from across the east coast of NSW.

Ten boats competed in the first official East Coast event for the MG14 class, including three local crews and two junior teams from Queens Lake Sailing Club.

Racing was tight across both days, with shifting breezes testing sailors’ skill and decision-making on the course.

Local sailor Simon Gandy, helming Vamos with junior crew Syd Ayliss, said the regatta was a valuable experience.

“A big learning curve for us but definitely happy to be part of a great group.

“Thanks to the club for putting on a good regatta.”

Photographer Margaret Fraser-Martin of Yacht Photos captured the action on the water.

“I had the pleasure of being invited to photograph the inaugural East Coast MG14 Regatta being held at Queens Lake Sailing Club over the long weekend,” she said.

“I usually spend my weekends capturing yachts racing on Sydney Harbour.

“This event was quite a change for me but an amazing change, the skill and dexterity of the sailors, the competitiveness, the thinking of the course to take across the lake.

“So good to watch and capture.”

Day one saw a challenging southerly breeze, with two three-lap races on a south-set course featuring top marks and bottom gates.

Day two brought a northeast breeze and another two three-lap races.

Each start and rounding of the top mark delivered close tactical battles as crews worked to hoist spinnakers quickly while avoiding congestion.

Final results:

1st – Skittles (361), Josh Franklin and Mona Rasera, Royal Queensland Yacht Squadron

2nd – Death Defying Too (385), Jim Kerrison and Deb Stening, Queens Lake Sailing Club

3rd – Venturi (441), John Caley and Ava Smith, St George Sailing Club.

By Sis HIGGINS