Queensland is leading the way, with two Discover Sailing Centres gearing up to roll out courses in the Learn to Wing SUP (Stand Up Paddleboard) program, and three additional clubs embracing the instructor development. Their early progress positions Queensland to become the first state in Australia to deliver the complete program, watch this space!

Instructors at Humpybong Yacht Club, Townsville Sailing Club, Port Curtis Sailing Club and Keppel Bay Sailing Club have embraced the new Wing SUP elearning modules in the Australian Sailing Training Hub (https://www.sailingresources.org.au/training). After completing additional onwater skills training, instructors are now prepared to offer Wing SUP courses, with Townsville Sailing Club already incorporating Wing SUP into its popular Out There Sailing program.

Humpybong Yacht Club leveraged the North Action Group Partnership’s discounted wing package, purchasing two wings and two foiling boards. To kick off their winging program, the club hosted a foiling festival to build interest and momentum. Although enthusiasm was high, the club identified the need for additional workforce support and instructor upskilling to deliver the program effectively.

To strengthen instructor readiness, a professional development day was recently held at the HYC. Participants completed the online Wing Endorsement (found in the Learning Hub) course before Australian Sailing staff and contractors guided them through the Learn to Wing content, ensuring consistency and structure across delivery.

The session began with an overview of the three progressive stages: Learn to Wing (on stand-up paddleboards), Learn to Tow Foil, and Learn to Wing Foil. Instructors reviewed wingskills videos and practised foundational landbased techniques, including inflation procedures and equipment care. Then came the highlight, onwater training!

Instructors demonstrated key skills while peers practised delivering coaching cues in real time. Even experienced wing users found new learning opportunities. The session was physically demanding, highly engaging, and featured a few entertaining dunkings.

Powerboat handling was also a key focus. Instructors practised safe approaches to learners in the water, retrieving participants and equipment, repositioning upwind, and properly deflating and packing gear for transport.

A final debrief showed a clear boost in confidence across the group. Instructors felt better equipped to deliver skills safely and effectively and were eager work towards official Learn to Wing courses for newcomers.