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From the Illawarra region, across the Sydney metropolitan area through to the Central and North Coast areas, clubs will welcome newcomers to sailing from 1000 hours local time onwards, operating with their own craft and tutors. In Western Australia selected clubs will be open from 0900 onwards.

Participants will have the opportunity to try all manner of sailing vessels, from catamarans to skiffs, keel boats to racing yachts.

Class yachts involved include Manly Juniors, Flying 11s, Herons, Hobie Cats, Sabots, Flying Ants and the famous VJs and VSs (Vaucluse Junior and Vaucluse Senior).

An initiative of the Sailing Industry Association, a sub-group of the Boating Industry Association of NSW (BIA), and supported by Yachting New South Wales, the programme over the past ten years has introduced hundreds of boys and girls, men and women to the thrills of boating 'under canvas.'

'The aim of the Try Sailing programme is not necessarily to unearth any America's Cup or Sydney Hobart competitors, but to provide access and the opportunity for people to actually try their hand at a past time that may have previously been beyond reach,' explained Domenic GENUA, the association's Marketing and Event Manager.

'Of course, some of the clubs involved just may discover some hidden yachting talent, someone trying their hand for the first time just may end up racing to Hobart aboard one of the awesome maxi yachts.'

Those intending to test their skills need no appointment, simply turn up on the day at the club of choice, register and 'go for it'. A parent or guardian must accompany children under the age of 18.

'Wear comfortable clothing, suitable footwear, such as deck shoes and take along some sunscreen and perhaps a bottle of water.' GENUA suggests.

For a list of clubs involved in the Try Sailing day in New South Wales go to the Yachting Australia website. For those in Western Australia go to the Yachting Western Australia website.