Paris Olympians hoist sails at iconic Sail Melbourne Regatta

(l-r) Michael Blackburn, Emma Humphries, Meaghan Densley, Grae Morris, Zoe Thomson, Peter Demura © Beau Outteridge / Sail Melbourne

The iconic Sail Melbourne regatta has returned to the waters of Port Phillip in Victoria just months after incredible results from the Australian Sailing Team in Marseille, with Paris Olympians and up-and-coming sailors raising their masts from today.

As one of Australia's premier Olympic and Invited Classes Regatta, Sail Melbourne has become the largest annual 'Off the Beach' regatta in the southern hemisphere and is critical to the growth and success of junior and youth sailors, enabling them to race alongside their Olympic heroes.

CEO of Australian Sailing, Ben Houston, says he is delighted to see the event attract so many sailors from across the country and beyond.

"Sail Melbourne is an integral event on the Australian Sailing calendar, and with more than 210 boats set to take to the water over the next four days, there is no doubt that the reputation of the event is stronger than ever," said Houston.

"There is no doubt that the Paris Olympics has positively impacted participation, with an incredible number of young sailors taking part across all classes, proving the future is bright for sailing in Australia.

"We are delighted to partner with Royal Brighton Yacht Club to deliver what is sure to be a show-stopping event, and extend our sincerest thanks to the Victorian Government for their continued support," he said.

Commodore of Royal Brighton Yacht Club, Peter Demura, says the club is excited to host the exciting event.

"Sail Melbourne is a significant for the club and we're very proud to host," said Demura.

"We have an incredible venue here, and we're very happy to offer it to our competitors and to Australian Sailing because we know how important the regatta is to the development of our young sailors as well as those at the top of their game."

Supported by the Victorian Government's Significant Sporting Events Program, Sail Melbourne is proud to be an annual event on the state's calendar.

As the first major event on local waters since the Paris Olympics and also incorporating the 2024 470 Oceania Championships, 2024 Australian Para Sailing Championships, iQFOiL Australian Championships and RS100 Victorian Championships, Sail Melbourne has attracted big names to its dock.

Silver medallist from Paris 2024, Grae Morris is one such athlete taking to the water.

"Sail Melbourne is my first big regatta back after the Paris Olympics and it's quite exciting to be here, I'm eager to get back on the start line," said Morris.

"This event is great because of the size of the fleet and all the different people you get to sail against. It's also a glamour venue and a place you can enjoy whether you're on the water or not," he said.

Sail Melbourne will take place at Royal Brighton Yacht Club from November 28 to December 1.