CALLING ALL WOMEN WHO SAIL!

The Gathering On The Bay Is Back!

March 31st - April 2nd 2023

Port Stephens, NSW Australia

Join us for this unique opportunity for all women who are interested in boating & sailing to come together, meet other like-minded ladies, be inspired, gain knowledge and share experiences in a supportive women's only forum.

First held in Nelson Bay in 2016, the annual Women Who Sail Australia (WWSA) Gathering on the Bay is a conference and get-together for women interested in boats.

Women Who Sail Australia is a network of more than 5700 women involved with boating (or wish to be). You don’t need to be a member of Women Who Sail Australia to attend the gathering, all women who are interested in boats are welcome.

The Gathering on the Bay comprises three days of presentations and social events, bookended by additional 'on the water' events for those who arrive early and/or stay on an extra day.

KEY SPEAKERS FOR THIS YEAR’S EVENT INCLUDE...

LISA BLAIR

Record-breaking solo sailor Lisa Blair who has circumnavigated Antarctica (twice!) and Australia non-stop and unassisted

Lisa’s second presentation (on Sunday) will discuss storm management, how and when to deploy a drogue, heaving-to, and more. This will be a valuable session from a sailor who has faced more than her fair share of storms in the Southern Ocean!

ANNETTE HESSELMANS

RYA instructor and experienced skipper Annette Hesselmans, skippered her yacht Fika in the 2022 Melbourne to Hobart ‘Westcoaster’ race and completed the Melbourne to Osaka two-handed race.

Annette Hesselmans will reflect on her experiences, anecdotes, and observations as a female sailor, exploring the opportunities to empower women to set sail confidently.

PLUS PRESENTATIONS BY

The first all-women crew in the two-handed division of the Rolex Sydney to Hobart Yacht Race, ‘2Birds2Hobart’ Kathy Veel and Bridget Canham

Other presentations include an interactive session from experienced skipper and boat broker Sonia Robinson, who will provide advice (and talk through some scenarios) on how to set your boat up to suit your sailing needs, to make it easier for short-handed sailing, and equip you with the confidence to step out of your comfort zone.

Julie Porter will chat about Julie Porter will chat about SV Rhona, Hobart’s smallest tall ship SV Rhona, Hobart’s smallest tall ship

Master V skipper and MED2 mechanic Lily Barlow will present an introduction to marine diesel mechanics. While this 2-hour session is theory only, a lot of ground is covered, and you can expect to know how to identify parts of your engine, and attendees will be well on the way to the practical side of doing their next service themselves.

Mel Yeomans discussing ropes and deck fittings (and their maintenance)

Fabien Vignes, Rocna Anchors Australia will share Fabien Vignes, Rocna Anchors Australia will share anchoring tips and discuss new-generation anchoring tips and discuss new-generation anchors anchors

Wendy from Marine Medical Solutions will discuss marine first aid kits and medical issues aboard marine first aid kits and medical issues aboard.

Laura Corà Macolino will tell us about The Sassy Sailing Sisters Program The Sassy Sailing Sisters Program

The weekend will also feature a panel of experts who will discuss: how to prepare for the unexpected, including:

•Rigging and system failure •Rescue at sea - what to expect when the worst happens. •How & when to call for help.

Each morning begins with Yoga4Yachties with Leanne Hembrow from Namaste Ocean Yoga.

There will be displays of nautical clothing and books and a book signing with well-known Cruising Cartoonist Sarah Steenland and author of Luff Out Loud.

On Saturday evening, the men folk are invited to join us for our Gathering dinner, described by one male partner at a previous event as being like sundowners but with shoes on!

More information about the Gathering on the Bay (including ticketing details) can be found:

In the March Issue of AHOY Sailing: www.ahoysailing.au

Women Who Sail Australia Website: www.womenwhosailaustralia.com/gotb

Women Who Sail Facebook page, www.womenwhosailaustralia.com

Or send an email to: admin@womenwhosailaustralia.com.