A lasting tribute and a fresh breeze for the start of the sailing season at Inverloch
South Gippsland Yacht Club Commodore Matt Kiely joined David Grimmond in unveiling a memorial chair overlooking Anderson Inlet to honour the memory of long-serving club member Di Grimmond before the first day of sailing in the 2026/27 SGYC competition calendar.
THE South Gippsland sailing community gathered not only to launch their competitive racing calendar for the year but to honour one of their most dedicated club stalwarts.
Club Commodore Matt Kiely joined David Grimmond to unveil memorial chair overlooking Anderson Inlet dedicated to the memory of long-serving club member Di Grimmond who spent more than 30 years working in the social club and kitchen.
"The chair was donated by her husband David Grimmond as a memorial to Di and her long service for the club over more than 30 years," Commodore Kiely said.
"The club has a fully equipped kitchen which turns the sailing days into social days. It provides a great view over the Inlet and can be used by the general public. We are pleased it can be used by everyone to enjoy the view."
While the club hosted 45 members for its annual dinner the previous weekend the first day of sailing was delayed until last Sunday due to poor weather the week before.
When the fleet finally hit the water, the conditions delivered high-stakes excitement.
"Today is our first competition sailing day," Kiely noted. "Conditions are a little fresh but excellent for sailing. We start with open sailing as a tradition for opening day."
The brisk winds pushed the fleet to its limits, offering spectacular opening-day action.
Local sailors showcased their skills navigating the heavy chop, setting a competitive standard for the months ahead
The club will run its full racing programme on Anderson Inlet through to April, with sailing lessons scheduled to begin on December 4 and continuing through to January.
SGYC is launching its 2026/27 sailing season with an exciting, inclusive community event. In partnership with Australian Sailing’s nationwide Discover Sailing Month, the club will host a free Women and Girls Come and Try Day on Saturday, November 14.
Designed to encourage female participation through the Sail Our Way initiative, the day has been designed to provide a welcoming, supportive environment for newcomers to get out on the water, learn new skills, and discover the thrill of sailing.
The event is entirely free and structured to accommodate all ages and abilities, meaning absolutely no prior sailing experience is required. The club is removing all barriers to entry by providing the necessary equipment, boats and lifejackets.
Attendees will also enjoy a complimentary lunch and afternoon tea. To ensure peace of mind on the water, participants can choose to sail solo or take the helm alongside one of the club's experienced local sailors.
The Inverloch event aligns with a broader push by Australian Sailing to showcase local club culture throughout November. The initiative aims to foster healthy minds, active bodies, and a lasting community spirit.
Early registration is highly recommended. Interested participants should contact the club directly to secure their spot and help organisers finalise catering numbers.
