2026 Australian Contender Nationals at South Lake Macquarie Amateur Sailing Club after Day 3
by Ross Hansen 14 Jan 00:48 GMT
12-15 January 2026
Contender Australian Nationals at Lake Macquarie © Sean Singleton-Turner
Day 1 of the 2026 Australian Contender Titles kicked off at South Lake Macquarie Amateur Sailing Club on Monday 12th Jan 2026.
A strong fleet of 34 boats from QLD, NSW, SA, WA, ACT & VIC completed 3 races in light to moderate ESE breeze and building fresh in race 3. Day 1 leader was Geoff Fisher from QLD sailing consistently.
Day 2 had champagne NE sailing conditions and Current Workd Champion Mark Bulka really dominated winning all 3 races and becoming overall leader. Geoff Fisher holding second on equal points with Andrew Webster 3rd from ACT. Simon Barwood WA 4th & Sam Ellis 5th NSW round out the top 5 making there move with 2 days left in regatta.
Day 3 saw the battle intensifies and the leaderboard starts to take shape. It is a classic showdown between some of the best in the business!
Results after Day 3: (top five)
1. Mark Bulka (VIC) - 8 pts
2. Geoff Fisher (QLD) - 11 pts
3. Andre Webster (ACT/NSW) - 11 pts
4. Simon Barwood (WA) - 18 pts
5. Sam Ellis (NSW) - 28 pts
With only three points separating the top three, every tack and gybe today will be crucial. Keep an eye on local favorite Sam Ellis as he looks to close the gap on the leading pack!
Today's racing is proudly brought to you by Irwin Sails. If you're wondering what's powering the speed at the front of this fleet, look no further.
Current World Champion Mark Bulka has worked exclusively and closely with Lindsay Irwin on sail development. This partnership has created the cutting-edge designs that have helped Mark dominate the international stage. When you choose Irwin Sails, you're choosing world-class development and proven championship speed.
The NE breeze is up and the fleet is heading out today with a maximum of 3 races to be held. Let's go racing!