HTS Port Esperance Regatta - Only two weeks to go

by Steve Harrison on 19 Mar 2010 Only two weeks to go to the 149th Huon Tasmanian Salmon Port Esperance Regatta.

There has been a major change in the sailing program for competitors in the Huon Tasmanian Salmon Keel-boat Racing Series.

Unfortunately logistical difficulties have meant they we have been unable to provide sufficient dinghies on loan for the Skippers' Dinghy Race. As a result we have had to replace the Skippers Dinghy Race on Sunday morning with another event - the Bowmans Bash.

Entered keel-boats must be helmed by the regular bowman or foreward hand and the skipper must work the foredeck. A course around the islands is proposed. The warning signal will be at 1015.

Berthing arrangements are as per last year. Boats are free to tie up to the Dover Wharf but be aware that this is a working fishing port. If the weather is fine, and we hope it is, then fishing boats will be at see, freeing up more space.

The club has three moorings available. These are east of the wharf and identifiable by white buoys with the letters PESC. The mooring blocks are one and three ton concrete fish-farm blocks so should easily accommodate a number of boats rafted up. A dinghy with oars will be tied to each mooring. Boats using the mooring are responsible for sharing use the dinghy among themselves.

The Race Centre for the Eighty Options Sabre State Titles will be in a marquee on the foreshore adjacent to the camping area. Briefings and sign on / sign off sheets will be in the marquee.

Camping spots are available on the eastern end of the foreshore. Access is on a first-in basis. The Huon Valley Council has constructed a new toilet block close by. It has outdoor cold-water showers for rinsing off salt water. A hot-water shower is located inside the PESC club-house. The Dover Beachside Tourist Park also has hot showers to which you may be able to negotiate access for a fee.

The Far South Wilderness Lodge has cabin and backpacker accommodation available especially for the regatta. Other accommodation options can be found here.

A free-sausage sizzle is available for sailors on Friday evening at the club for sailors as a welcome to the regatta.

Food on Saturday and Sunday nights is a cook you own BBQ with salmon, steak and chicken with salads for $15. Salad rolls will be available for lunch. It is advised to order these early at the bar.

Entertainment on Saturday night sees the return of Leanne McLean and Jim Reece while the regatta closes with a bang n Sunday night rocking out to the electric blues of Slyde.

Online entry and race documents:
http://eightyoptions.com.au/regatta_entry