On sail: A Corio Bay Sailing Club member breezes past a somewhat larger vessel.
JOHN VAN KLAVEREN AND KIM WATERS
LANDLUBBERS have always been welcome at Corio Bay Sailing Club.
The family-oriented group of keen sailors is happy to share hard-won lore with anyone drawn to the sea.
But it hadn’t always been plain sailing for the club, confessed resident old salt Arthur Poundsett.
“Our membership tends to bob up and down a bit, so we’re keen to get a few more interested sailors to join us,” he said.
Arthur has been launching boats at the club’s Limeburner’s Lagoon ramp, just behind Geelong Grammar School, since 1972 when the club was founded.
Arthur assured that anyone could learn the ropes in an afternoon.
“Learning to race can take a bit longer but other than that it’s a very relaxing sort of sport,” he said.
“It’s a non-contact sport – unless you forget to duck for the boom,” Arthur laughed.
“But you soon learn about that – it only takes once.”
Arthur said most kids enjoyed picking up the sailing basics.
“Out on the bay you can get blown over by a gust, so you learn to keep a weather eye out, become more alert and read the conditions.
“You become more self-sufficient and it adds to your confidence.
“It’s the feeling of freedom; just man versus the elements, the sea and wind – that’s the main attraction.”
Arthur no longer sails himself – he’s 89 after all – but the master mariner hasn’t let age take the wind out of his sails. He still acts as the club’s vice-commodore, timekeeper and handicapper.
He even showed the cut of his jib by writing a computer program allowing him to enter race results and produce handicaps for the next race.
The club usually runs Heron class and OK Dinghy races suitable for both adults and juniors.
The club boasts one member, Peter Yates, who was selected in an Australian team at the world sailing championships.
The club starts its regular Sunday races next month, with the season usually running until April next year.
The clubhouse boasts facilities like a barbecue area, boat storage and showers.
Arthur said more information was available by phoning him on 5278 2160 or club secretary Anna Goksoyr on 0405 081 781.
