The RGYC will also host free entertainment following the opening ceremony.
For the first time in Royal Geelong Yacht Club’s history, the Sail Past will be accessible to the general public from Steampacket Gardens and along Wangim Walk this weekend.
A tradition of inspecting the Club’s vessels by the Club Commodore, the Sail Past signifies the opening of the upcoming sailing season in Geelong, and is characterised by boats being dressed up with flags and the crews dressed in costume.
In previous years, the Sail Past was conducted on Corio Bay, and was only viewable from boats.
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Spreading the love near and far this year, the Wangim Walk on Geelong’s waterfront will host the ‘Sail Past’ at its Season Opening this weekend, on Sunday 19th December.
Situated on Geelong’s waterfront, Wangim Walk stretches out over Corio Bay to form one of Australia’s longest on-water walkways, providing safe harbour to the Royal Geelong Yacht Club and allowing the public to walk on water. Opened in 2020 and named after the Wadawurrung language for Boomerang, the $10.1 million, 440m Wave Attenuator has since attracted an estimated 500,000 people to walk its length.
As part of the festivities, the Royal Geelong Yacht Club would like to welcome the general public to watch the Sail Past, and vote on the best dressed boat and the best flag display. Each vote will go into a draw to win one of four sailing experiences.
After the Sail Past, the public will be welcomed into Royal Geelong Yacht Club to enjoy free entertainment, 10% off at the Yot Cafe, and to celebrate with Club members.
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“We’re delighted to welcome the Geelong community to Royal Geelong Yacht Club on our season Opening Day. It’s the first time we have extended this to the general public, and we hope lots of people will come down to enjoy the festivities,” says RGYC Commodore Stuart Dickson.
“It’s also the first time that Wangim Walk will be used in an official event capacity by RGYC. Together, Steampacket Gardens and Wangim Walk create a great opportunity to get close to the action on the water, and really enjoy the ceremonial Sail Past.
We would like to encourage everyone to join us afterward at the club to enjoy the entertainment and some good cheer!”.
The Sail Past will be conducted between 2.15pm – 3.30pm on Sunday 19th December, 2021. Viewing is accessible from Steampacket Gardens and along Wangim Walk, with follow-on celebrations held at Royal Geelong Yacht Club. All are welcome.
