Belmont 16s Sailing Club to host 2026 Skelcon Australian Skiff Championships
by Jess Graham 1 Oct 18:07 NZDT
4-11 January 2026
Skelcon 16ft Skiff © Mark Rothfield / Promocean Media
Lake Macquarie set for a world-class sailing spectacle
Belmont 16s Sailing Club, in partnership with the Australian Skiff Sailing Association (ASSA), is proud to announce that Skelcon has been confirmed as the official Naming Rights Sponsor of the 2026 Australian Skiff Championships for the 16ft and 13ft classes.
The 2026 Skelcon 16ft & 13ft Skiffs Australian Championship will take place from 4-11 January 2026, bringing together the fastest skiffs and most talented sailors from across the country to the waters in and around Belmont Bay, Lake Macquarie.
With up to 70 crews in the 16ft class and up to 30 crews in the 13ft class expected to register, this championship will attract hundreds of sailors, officials, and supporters to the Hunter Region, boosting local tourism and the regional economy.
Elevating Event Calibre
The calibre of planning behind this championship ensures it will be one of the most significant sailing events the region has hosted in years. With Skelcon's support and Belmont 16s' newly upgraded facilities, the event promises to be a true festival of sailing, combining elite competition with a world-class spectator experience.
"This championship represents the pinnacle of Australian skiff sailing and a return to the calibre of event we haven't seen in some time. Our recently upgraded facilities make Belmont 16s Sailing Club the perfect home for this championship, and we are honoured to work alongside Skelcon and ASSA to deliver an event that will showcase not only the best in sailing but also the best of our region."
— James Griffith, Commodore, Belmont 16s Sailing Club
About Belmont 16s Sailing Club
Celebrating over 100 years of sailing history (est 1922), Belmont 16s Sailing Club has long been a cornerstone of the sport on Lake Macquarie. The Club is home to some of Australia's most talented skiff sailors and has recently invested significantly in upgrading its sailing facilities, fleet growth and equipment. These improvements ensure the Club continues to lead the way in competitive sailing while providing opportunities for future generations.
"The vision behind our recent sailing facility upgrades was to future-proof our sport and to ensure we could host major events of this calibre for decades to come. It's about inspiring the next generation of sailors while reinforcing Belmont 16s as a national calibre for competitive sailing."
— Scott Williams, CEO, Belmont 16s Sailing Club
About Skelcon
Skelcon, a Newcastle based company that is redefining the construction industry with its holistic approach. From design consultation through to handing over the keys, Skelcon provides a seamless end-to-end service. With an in-house design team and a dedicated joinery facility, Skelcon delivers a one-stop-shop experience and a no-fuss building process.
"Skelcon is proud to be the naming partner of the 2026 SKELCON Australian 16ft & 13ft Skiff Championship, a large local event that holds great significance for our community. As a Newcastle-based company, we are excited to support local sporting events that bring people together and create opportunities for the next generation." - Joel Skelton, Director of Skelcon
Event Details:
- Location - Belmont 16s Sailing Club, Lake Macquarie
- Date - 4-11 January 2026
With stunning waterside views, elite racing, and the community spirit of Belmont 16s Sailing Club, this championship will be a highlight on Australia's sailing calendar and a major drawcard for sports fans and visitors to Lake Macquarie.