Queenscliff Cup introduces female helm trophy

Queenscliff Cruising Yacht Club (QCYC), Victoria is gearing up for their annual Queenscliff Cup regatta over Easter 2022, with the inclusion of an exciting new two-race female helm series, the inaugural Queenscliff Commodore’s Trophy.

QCYC Commodore Lee Renfree, as first female commodore in the 60-year history of the club, is thrilled with the new opportunity created by her club for female sailors. Commodore Lee, as a boat owner and passionate sailor, acutely observed the low level of sailing participation of females already connected to the club through their partners or families.

Comm Lee Renfree aboard PipeDream, standing in cockpit (sails not up).
Comm Lee Renfree aboard PipeDream.

Along with her committee, the new event is a start in growing membership and active sailing participation opportunities, particularly encouraging more women to step up to active engagement and leadership roles on keelboats.  

For those not familiar with the club, QCYC is an idyllic paradise, situated on a small bush-covered sand spit aptly named Sand Island, just inside the entrance to Port Phillip Bay and adjacent to the Swan Bay marine park. Club facilities include an extensive wharf where members and their guests use their yachts for sleeping quarters and a refurbished clubhouse provides all else for a self-catered holiday.

Lee Renfree steering with one hand, sitting to the side.
QCYC Commodore Lee Renfree at the helm.

Members and visitors from other clubs are all invited to sail in the Queenscliff Cup over 16-17 April, a series of five races with two races featuring female helms from members of the boat’s regular crews.

The Notice of Race is available here.

Online entry can be made via TryBooking.

Sailing Instructions will be available on the website in the week before Easter.

Secure your spot now for an excellent Easter of sailing, socialising and holidaying at ‘Chez QCYC’ celebrating with family and friends. Come and join us!

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