⚓️ ADF & Emergency Services Regatta – Newcastle Harbour (Elliott 6’s)
WHAT
We’re excited to put the call out for veterans interested in forming crews for the 2027 ADF & Emergency Services Regatta on Newcastle Harbour, sailing Elliott 6s out of Newcastle Cruising Yacht Club.
If we can pull crews together, Saltwater Veterans Sailing Project (SVSP) is happy to sponsor the full cost of regatta entry for eligible veteran crews, thanks to the incredible support of Port Waratah Coal Services and the RSL NSW Veterans Support Fund. 💙⚓️💛
Crews will be made up of 3–4 people and we are keen to support multiple veteran crews from our SVSP community.
This is a fantastic opportunity to experience short-course fleet racing in a supportive, team-based environment — whether you’re new to racing or looking to sharpen your skills.
What’s it all about?
A competitive but welcoming fleet racing regatta exclusively for Australian Defence Force and Emergency Services personnel, sailed in identical Elliott 6 yachts.
Expect short, sharp races, close competition, strong camaraderie and plenty of banter both on and off the water.
WHEN
Monday 22 February 2027
Tuesday 23 February 2027
Competitors Briefing: 1000 hrs each day
First Warning Signal: 1100 hrs
Last Warning Signal: 1500 hrs
WHERE
Newcastle Cruising Yacht Club (NCYC)
95 Hannell Street
Wickham NSW 2293
Racing will be conducted on the waters of Newcastle Harbour.
PARKING
Parking is available at and around Newcastle Cruising Yacht Club.
Please follow club signage and local parking regulations.
COST
SVSP Supported Veteran Crews - $0 per crew | Entry fees will be fully funded by Saltwater Veterans Sailing Project for eligible veteran crews.
Other Eligible Teams
Entry fee expected to be no more than $450 per crew (final Notice of Race to confirm).
FLOW OF THE DAY
1000 hrs – Compulsory Competitors Briefing
1100 hrs – First Warning Signal
1100–1500 hrs – Windward/Leeward Fleet Racing
- Elliott 6 one-design yachts
- Crews of 3–4 people
- Multiple short-course races
- Typical race duration 15–20 minutes
- Two-lap courses
Post Racing – Debrief, social connection and refreshments ashore.
ELIGIBILITY
- Crews of 3–4 people
- Open to current and former serving Australian Defence Force personnel
- Open to Emergency Services personnel
- Additional affiliated organisations may be invited by the Organising Authority
- All participants must complete required waivers and registration requirements
CONTACT
Saltwater Veterans Sailing Project
For expressions of interest, crew allocation and veteran entry support, register your interest via SVSP.
We will assist with crew formation, logistics and event coordination.
WHY
Opportunities like this help veterans and emergency services personnel build connection, teamwork and confidence through meaningful participation on the water.
The regatta provides a fun and inclusive pathway into keelboat racing while strengthening the friendships and community networks that are so important to ongoing wellbeing.
Thanks to the support of Port Waratah Coal Services and the RSL NSW Veterans Support Fund, we’re able to remove financial barriers and help more veterans experience the benefits of sailing and community connection
Stay Salty 💛⚓️💙
