Sail Our Way Case Study: Derwent Sailing Squadron

Club: Derwent Sailing Squadron
Location: Sandy Bay, TAS 7005
Contact: Amy Potter | sail.admin@dssinc.org.au

About the project

Derwent Sailing Squadron delivered Start Crewing – All Female Courses as part of the Sail Our Way program, creating an accessible entry point for women interested in learning the fundamentals of crewing.

The courses followed the Australian Sailing Start Crewing syllabus and were delivered aboard the club’s training boat, a Young 88. Each course provided participants with hands-on learning in a supportive environment, helping women develop confidence and practical sailing skills on board a keelboat.

Two of the three scheduled courses have been completed so far, with both sessions selling out. Each course hosted five women and was led by one qualified instructor.

Participation

10 participants across two courses
1 instructor delivering the training

Outcomes and impact

The program created a welcoming pathway for women to get involved in sailing and build the confidence on the water.

Entry point into sailing: Participants gained foundational crewing skills through structured, hands-on learning aligned with the Australian Sailing syllabus.
Increased participation: Many participants went on to join the club’s Thursday Twilight “Try Racing” sessions to experience racing in a relaxed setting.
Confidence and enjoyment: Participants reported enjoying the experience and were eager to continue sailing at the club.
Visibility of women in sailing: The courses highlighted women’s participation within the club community, with participant stories shared through club media.

How the funding helped

The Sail Our Way grant allowed the club to offer the courses at a significantly reduced price, making the program more accessible and appealing to women interested in trying sailing for the first time.