News
Regional Women and Girls Take to the Water at Cairn Curran
Published Thu 16 Apr 2026
Women and girls from across Central Victoria recently had the opportunity to experience sailing in a welcoming and supportive environment, as Cairn Curran Sailing Club (CCSC) delivered a successful “Come Try Sailing” and Learn to Sail initiative.
Held on the scenic waters of Cairn Curran Reservoir, the program introduced participants to the fundamentals of sailing, with a strong focus on building confidence, skills, and community connections.
The initiative was proudly supported by the Victorian Government through the Strengthening Regional Community Sports Program, delivered by Sport and Recreation Victoria. This support enabled the club to reduce barriers to participation by providing access to boats, safety equipment, and qualified instructors at little to no cost for participants.
Through two dedicated introductory days, women and girls were guided through rigging, safety procedures, and basic boat handling before heading out on the water alongside experienced instructors and volunteers. The program created a safe and inclusive environment, particularly for those who were trying sailing for the first time.
The sessions attracted a strong cohort of new participants, many with no prior sailing experience. By addressing common barriers such as cost, access, and confidence, CCSC successfully created an accessible entry point into the sport.
Feedback from participants highlighted the strong impact of the day, with one noting:
"That was the absolute best day! A lot of people were empowered today. Thank you for being organized but also bringing a lightness to the vibes which set everyone at ease."
Another participant shared:
"It was a great day and so well organised. Looking forward to the next one."
Club volunteers were instrumental in delivering the program, supporting participants both on and off the water and helping foster a welcoming and social atmosphere. This sense of community played a key role in ensuring participants felt comfortable and supported throughout their experience.
Importantly, the program has already contributed to increased engagement at the club, with several participants expressing interest in continuing their sailing journey. Opportunities for ongoing involvement, including social sailing, training, and club racing, were highlighted following the sessions.
Building on this momentum, Cairn Curran Sailing Club is currently working towards becoming an accredited Discover Sailing Centre. This progression will enable the club to deliver structured, nationally recognised training programs and continue providing accessible pathways for new sailors in the region.
Initiatives like this demonstrate the impact of targeted investment in regional sport. With the support of the Victorian Government and the ongoing commitment of local volunteers, CCSC is helping to grow participation and create a more inclusive sailing community.
As interest continues to build, the club is well positioned to expand its offerings and provide more opportunities for women and girls to get involved in sailing, ensuring the sport remains accessible, social, and welcoming for all.
