Page 15 - Port Douglas Magazine 38

THE WINDS OF

PARADISE

WORDS by Maura Mancini
he reasons that make Port Douglas such a unique and appealing inshore buoy racing showcasing the famous Four Mile Beach as a backdrop.
destination appear to be endless. To name just a few - the The next one is scheduled for 14-18 May 2024

proximity to two of the most unique places on Earth, the Great The associated social activities, such as music performances and gatherings

TBarrier Reef and the ancient Daintree Rainforest, as well as the on land, add an exciting festive atmosphere around town. During race week

local indigenous history and culture bound to the magni cent views, it’s easy to bump into some of those teams at the local watering holes, still
abundant wildlife, gentle climate, and a remarkable variety of aquatic in their uniform, celebrating and debriefing after the challenging race day.

activities. Nothing tastes better than an icy cold beer after sweating on the boats all

Consistent breezes and reef-protected seas add to the list, making it ideal for day, I promise!
those looking to sail the winds of paradise all year round. Port Douglas Race Week is highly esteemed among sailors due to its
picturesque setting. Over the years, it has motivated sailing organisations
SAILING THE WINDS OF PARADISE in the area by promoting and encouraging local sailing enthusiasts to get
It’s again that time of the year in Far North Queensland when the northerly involved and join in the fun.
summer sea breeze changes to the prevalent south-easterly winds of the
cooler and drier months between May and October. LEARNING THE ROPES
The so-called trade winds are associated with lower temperatures since they Local clubs have always sought inspiring volunteers to sustain and

originate from areas with dry and cool air, making them more predictable. accomplish their mission. I wouldn’t have had the opportunity to recount my

These winds have been vital throughout the centuries in exploration and sailing journey in Port Douglas if it wasn’t for the enthusiastic and kindred
spirits who helped me and other novices gain an understanding of sailing by
commerce. Sailors used the trade winds to travel quickly and reliably across sharing their expertise and time.
the oceans. Even today, shipping takes advantage of these winds and the
currents they create. I was that girl, longing for any opportunity to get onto a yacht to gain an
In Port Douglas these lively breezes signal a thrilling peak sailing season and understanding of the art of sailing. A few years ago I jumped at the chance
to learn the ropes by joining the Port Douglas Yacht Club. I participated
Port Douglas Race Week, the local sailing regatta event, leads the way!
in various events listed on their sailing calendar such as the Wednesday
Afternoon Go Sailing (WAGS), a two-day course as well as crewing during

RACE WEEK IS ON! weekend races. I cherished every moment spent on the water whenever
Yachts from different parts of the country contend in the winds of paradise possible and became a member of the Douglas Sailing Club at Four Mile

for the renowned Clipper Cup proudly presented by the local yacht club. Beach as well.
Since 1994 this sailing competition has drawn sailors from as far and wide as Since then, I have been collecting enjoyable and rewarding experiences while
New Zealand, America, and Canada and has become a popular event on the learning to sail and meeting some of the most passionate and greatest sailors
Australian sailing calendar. in Port Douglas. I have learnt from the most patient skippers, who never got

The six-race series is usually held over five days and includes offshore passage mad at me when I couldn’t understand the difference between downwind

races around the spectacular Low Isles and Snapper Island and technical and upwind or when I let out instead of pulling in the jib sheet (one of the

“lively breezes signal a thrilling peak sailing season...”