Sponsors support Southport-Mackay race

by Georgie Brown on 6 Jun 2004 The Committee for the Mackay Yacht Club has been overwhelmed by the enthusiasm of local businesses with their support for the 2004 Southport to Mackay Race, now in its second year.

Hosted in association with the Cruising Yacht Club of Australia (CYCA) and the Southport Yacht Club, the 530 nautical mile race is the longest and most beautiful Category 2 race on the East Coast of Australia and begins from Southport on Friday August 6 at 1.00pm.

The race, which made its debut last year, follows the Sydney to Gold Coast race and is prior to the famous regattas in Airlie Beach and Hamilton Island (Qld). The combined events offer unparalleled sailing in the prevailing southerly breezes from Sydney via Southport to Queensland’s tropical waters and its stunning islands.

Following last year’s inaugural race, interest is high among racing and cruising boats with an expected 14-20 boats tipped to enter this year’s event. The Notice of Race and Entry Form will be released in June.

While the event is still open for a major sponsor to garner the prestigious naming rights, the businesses of the far north Queensland sugar town have offered contributions to the Mackay Yacht Club to ensure that all race entrants will enjoy a top-quality event.

Those who have contributed include local property developers Hot Property, financiers Mortgage Choice, the Bendigo Bank, Becky Knight & Elliott Solicitors, Konica and the Sea Breeze Resort Hotel.

Peter Hansen, Yacht Brokers and the Reef Marina Village, has also offered support plus half price mooring for three days to all entrants, while the local Herz dealership is offering a discounted rate for participants.

Committee Chairman, Dale Robinson says, ‘Word of mouth for the race has been fantastic. Local sponsors have responded in the true spirit of this town, with enthusiasm and generosity. With their support, this event can only grow bigger and better. We believe the Southport to Mackay Yacht Race will become one of the great races on the East Coast of Australia,’ he said.

For further information contact Dale Robinson, Commodore Mackay Yacht Club tel: (07) 4955 4950 Mackay Yacht Club or mkyacht@mackay.net.au