The Richmond River Sailing and Rowing Club at Ballina has just completed a three-day Learn to Sail course held over three consecutive Saturdays.
All up, sixteen people, including nine women, five men and three teenagers took the course
‘It was encouraging to see the number of women attending,’ training coordinator, Garry Bargh, said.
‘The trainees’ skills improved over the three days of instruction, with the majority going solo without an instructor on board on the last day.
‘Our instructors followed them in our rescue boats giving them guidance when needed’.
Trainees got experience handling different types of boats including: Pacers, Cats, Corsairs, Lasers and a 59er.
‘The course was appreciated by the trainees, who found the it helpful and the environment friendly,’ Garry said.
Practise sailing for the trainees will continue every Sunday morning to further improve their boating skills.
The club will run its next training course in September.