'Discover Sailing' Case Study- Albury Wodonga Yacht Club
by Michelle Kearney, YA/Sail-World Cruising on 3 Mar 2013
Albury-Wodonga Yacht Club SW
It was a significant challenge, which they met by committing to new ideas and new sailing programs. Albury Wodonga Yacht Club, based at Lake Hume, had been through a number of years of sustained record low lake levels, which saw a dwindling membership and poor numbers of regular sailors.
In 2010-11 they became an accredited Yachting Australia Training Centre.
The club committed to the Dinghy Learn to Sail Program and also became Australia’s first regional Tackers Centre. 'We were almost overwhelmed with how successful the programs were.
Not only did it introduce a whole new array of members but brought a significant revenue increase from fees as well. Our membership has grown nearly 40% since starting the program,' said Commodore Jeff Stirling.
In 2012 the Club formally adopted the Yachting Australia Pathway and became a Discover Sailing Accredited Centre.
'We are confident that using the Discover Sailing brand and the program we have a recipe for sustained success for our club. Our membership continues to grow as does the support from Local Government and other community groups.
'Having a structured program of training and membership participation has made our club more visible and relevant in the community. Our Sailability Program, including people of all abilities in our normal club activities has been an important contributor as well.'
More details on the Discover Sailing Program visit www.discoversailing.org.au
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