The Australian Sailing Awards 2021 winners were announced with the ORCV, Justine Kirkjian and Duncan Hine being amongst many deserving recipients.

The Ocean Racing Club of Victoria won Australian Sailing’s Club of the Year and Sports Promotion Awards due to their compelling record of success. The ORCV held nine offshore racing events involving more than 274 yachts and 3,244 sailors. They generated community interest via digital promotions resulting in a 35% increase in membership and a 76% increase in training course participation which is a boon for the big boat fleet in Victoria.

Justine Kirkjian is the CEO from the Cruising Yacht Club Of Australia, one of Australia's most prominent big boat clubs, was the deserving recipient of the Sports Professional of the Year Award. Under Justine’s leadership the CYCA achieved a record number of members and implemented initiatives to support volunteer retention.

Duncan Hine from Derwent Sailing Squadron had a successful season of offshore racing and took out the Offshore Sailor of the Year Award. The yacht Alive will next be competing in the Australian Maxi Championship hosted by the CYCA and all eyes will be on Duncan to see if Alive can maintain the success against a stunning fleet of its peers. ‘No pressure!’

To watch the 2021 Australian Sailing Awards go to https://www.facebook.com/AustSail/videos/4694027620659082
For information on the Australian Sailing Awards go to https://www.sailing.org.au/community/sailing-awards/

By Glen Stanaway https://www.sailing.org.au/about/ourstaff/