The deadline for entries for this year's Hayman Regatta in Queensland's tropical Whitsunday region has been extended to accommodate the wishes of a number of yacht owners wanting to compete but who are still in the process of finalising crew.
Entries will now close only a matter of days before the start of the regatta on August 30. This will allow owners contesting the Airlie Beach Hog's Breath and Hahn Premium Hamilton Island regattas to assemble the crew they need to be part of the Five Star action at Hayman.
The latest yacht for the line-up at Hayman is Stuart GILBERT'S Farr 36 One-Design, Inner Circle Rum, an exciting no-nonsense sportsboat that is exceptionally fast downwind. Sailing master Stuart BROOM says he and the crew are champing at the bit in anticipation of the southeasterly tradewinds blowing for the long downwind legs of the distance races at Hayman. Two 60-footers and Sydney 38s are among the other yachts looking to be at the regatta.
Regattas at Hayman have never been judged by fleet numbers. It's the satisfaction competitors gain via the unique nature of the event both on and off the water that makes the difference. It's the compact design of the floating marina in Hayman's picturesque harbour, and the capacity of what is Australia's most awarded international resort, that make the regatta an intimate event where exceptional camaraderie between competitors is a alluring hallmark. The regatta brings Five Star sailing to Australia.
The attributes of the resort are presented in stunning fashion - lush tropical gardens and an impressive low-rise resort offering awe-inspiring views across the Whitsunday Passage. Add to that picture the fine dining in a variety of first class restaurants, what is probably Australia's best wine cellar, and the best of Five Star service and you have Hayman.