Over the past few months we have seen the lake water level drop dramatically to levels not seen for the past few decades. The low levels also meant the pelicans were having a smorgasbord feeding on any turtle and water fowl hatchlings, plus a vast array of fish who were now within easy reach. Fortunately for us we operate in the deeper parts of the lake thus have still managed to keep sailing, albeit in muddy water.

A good attendance of 35 members gathered at the Warren Lake Hall in Woodlands on 8th December for the End of Year Award Presentation and Luncheon. A total of 24 awards of club medallions were made along with 4 Club Championship perpetual trophies 

The 2024 IOM World Championships are being contested in Gladstone, Queensland between 20th and 28th October with all races being streamed live on their YouTube channel. Skippers are encouraged to watch how the experts do it by following this link : https://www.youtube.com/@IOMWorlds24

A West Australian photographer and journalist were passing by Jackadder Lake one day when they saw the mob assembling for the day's racing and, being such a beautiful bunch, couldn't resist a photo opportunity!

The real reason of course, was something much more sinister - they were after quotes from some of our members relating to the recently announced proposal of Federal Government's changes to the Aged Care system.

After atrocious weather caused the racing to be abandoned on August 17th, a rescheduled memorial race was held on 31st August and it was very well attended by both IOM and DF95 classes even attracting 3 DF sailors from other clubs, very befitting of a memorial race to a very dear colleague. With 14 of each class on the water using the 2 on/ 2 off principal, PRO Bruce Robins and his helpers had their work cut out with veering, light winds causing chaos and many stern words to the wind gods. Only 6 races per class were managed but, given the conditions, that was a good effort.

Despite all attempts by the weather gods to dampen spirits and stop the racing, both fleets managed 10 races with all participants filling their stomachs and enjoying a cold but convivial day of friendly competition

PRSC sailing at Jackadder features on a City of Stirling garbage truck!

Have you noticed how shore-bound skippers 'lean' in an attempt to feel at one with their boats?

With thanks to Mal for the great pic!

Recent press releases on radio sailing from Post May 11 and Sunday Times May 5 2024

The original format of skippers swapping boats for every race returned to Jackadder but using DF95s instead of the original IOM boats. All participants seemed to enjoy the convivial atmosphere and the challenge of racing a differently tuned boat, proving once more that skipper's skill is more important than boat tuning. This fact is even more pronounced given all boats are identical, unlike the IOMs where different hull designs could be construed as providing the difference in boat performance.