Frequently Asked Questions

  1. How is Kurnell Catamaran Club Incorporated (KCC) handling the COVID-19 crisis afflicting Australia? Are the restrictions still in place?
    • KCC's COVID-19 plan is not currently active.
    • Whilst the end of the 2019-2020 sailing season was abandoned due to COVID-19, KCC was again operational for the 2020-2021 and 2021-2022 sailing seasons subject to Australian, NSW State and Local Government rules and mandates. KCC put in place a COVID-19 plan.
    • Restrictions in NSW and Australia have generally eased from late Q3 2022 and KCC's plan is thus not currently active, however, KCC's plan is still available and ready to re-implement at short notice if necessary and required by the regulatory authorities.
    • KCC requests all members and guests, when at the club or considering coming out to the club, to remain vigilant and observe sensible precautions re COVID-19 going forward.
    • Any queries re KCC's COVID-19 planning, please contact the KCC President or KCC Secretary.
    • You can see KCC's COVID-19 plan by clicking here.
    • Stay safe all!
  2. Troubleshooting:- I'm having trouble viewing the KCC website on my device. Do you have any hints or tips to assist me? What are some of the known issues or anomalies to look out for?
    • INCORRECT OR UNSECURE WEBSITE?  Make sure you are using "www.kcc.asn.au" or "https://www.kcc.asn.au", as from Nov'2022, KCC no longer uses the un-secure "http://" version of the website. A padlock should be showing on the address line in your internet web browser.
    • INCORRECT BOOKMARK?  If you bookmark the website make sure your bookmark points to "https://www.kcc.asn.au" or just "www.kcc.asn.au".  Do not bookmark or use "http://www.kcc.asn.au", "http://www.kcc.asn.au/default.html" or "http://www.kcc.asn.au/index.html" as these addresses are now superceded, invalid and un-secure. 
    • SITE NAVIGATION?  Navigation of the site is usually done from the KCC home page ("https://www.kcc.asn.au") buttons at the top of the screen. Once there, you can use the "Site Map" or "Search" buttons if you cannot find something.
    • NOT SEEING LATEST WEBSITE DATA?  If you cannot see the latest website or aren't seeing known/expected updates to our webpages, such as the latest news or race results, try clearing your browser's cache and history/website data after closing tabs on your browser.
    • INTERNET WEB BROWSER SUPPORT?  KCC's website is optimised for 1920x1080 pixels screen resolution or higher (though will usually work at some slightly lower resolutions). It looks great on a screen set to 2560x1440 pixels which is where the majority of the development and testing is done. The website has been tested in the latest versions of Apple Safari, Microsoft Windows Edge, Google Chrome and Mozilla Firefox browsers as at Nov'2022. Primary testing and optimisation is done in Apple Safari. The website is currently optimised for Apple macOS, Apple iPadOS, as well Microsoft Windows and at a pinch, with some limitations, various Apple IOS and Android devices. Generally the website will work using standard html capable web browsers on most PCs, laptops, tablets and smart phones.
    • TABLETS (eg iPAD) SUPPORT?  The website works on an Apple iPad and most Android tablets. The preferred option if you cannot see the entire site is to zoom your browser to less than 100%. For example on an Apple iPad, using Safari, the site works best at 75% (click the AA on the browser address line and adjust accordingly) whilst holding the iPad in landscape orientation. Similar scaling works on other browsers.
    • SMARTPHONE (eg iPHONE) SUPPORT?  If you are navigating from a smart phone such as the Apple iPhone, there is a modifed home page that is accessed by clicking the iPhone image underneath our sponsors to the right on most of our webpages.
    • SMARTPHONE (eg iPHONE) ANOMALIES? There are limitations when using smart phones, such as the slide show scrolling in the Photo Gallery not being available and some pages not displayed in a single screen without scrolling or zooming. Again, in some cases, holding the smartphone in landscape orientation produces easier to read results. If you want to bookmark the smart phone version of the website home page in your phone's browser, then bookmark "https://www.kcc.asn.au/ikcc/ikcc.html".
    • SOCIAL MEDIA ANOMALIES?  KCC has a Facebook account but does not have Instagram, Twitter, TicTok or other social media accounts. If you are trying to link to the website from social media accounts such as Facebook etc, you will usually find that it is better to use your device's browser (such as Apple Safari, Microsoft Edge, Google Chrome or Mozilla Firefox) rather than the social media app, as social media app links don't always scale the webpages correctly.
    • WEATHER WEBPAGE ANOMALIES?  There are also some issues opening multiple windows from a single link using windows.open javascript code from tablets (e.g. iPads) and smart phones (e.g. iPhones). This is currently limiting some functionality on our Weather webpage where we provide aditional functionality under the "Additional Resources" to open multiple weather windows with a single click. This is a current limitation. It works however on PCs and laptops in the major browsers on both Apple macOS and Microsoft Windows. Unfortunately, it is also no longer possible in modern browsers to open an unsecure website (http://) inside an iFrame window from a secure website (https://). Hence multiple source windows on a single page displayed in iFrames is no longer possible until the sites we want to display upgrade themselves to more  secure https:// websites. This manifests itself on our Weather webpage. If you are on a PC or laptop, you can still click on individual links on the webpage to open a window or if you'd rather, click "Open *** Weather Windows" or click on "Open all Weather Windows" from the links under "Additional Resources" on the right hand side of the webpage. If all Weather Windows do not open, make sure you are not blocking Pop-Up windows/tabs for either https://www.kcc.asn.au or all websites in your browser settings and that you have Javascript enabled in your browsers settings. Also, a hint,  if your browser supports vertical windows/tabs (e.g. Edge on Windows 10+ systems ; View/Show Tab Bar on Apple Safari;  Drop down arrow on right hand side of Google Chrome etc ), then turn this function on to enhance usability of the multiple windows.
    • BROKEN HYPERLINKS?  If you discover a broken hyperlink on the website, please report it to the KCC Webmaster.
    • OTHER ISSUES?  If you get really desperate - ask someone under 18 for assistance or email the KCC Webmaster from the Contact webpage if we haven't covered your issue above.
  3. What do the symbols/icons in front of some of the links or notices on this website mean?
This icon means the event was not run or has been abandoned on its scheduled sailing date ;  
  This icon means the event has completed and results have been been published on the KCC website ;  
  This icon means the event is scheduled but has not yet commenced ;  
  This icon means the event is still in progress and/or the results are yet to finalised (such as an incomplete series) or yet to be received ;  
  This icon is followed by a link that takes you to a different (external) website which KCC has no influence over ;  
  This icon is followed by a link that takes you to a different page or place in KCC's website ;  
  This icon is followed by a link that will download a file or document in a new window or tab from KCC's website ;  
  This icon is followed by a link that will create an email ;  
  This icon is followed by an Australian telephone number ;  
  This icon is followed by a link that returns you to the top of the current webpage ;  
  This icon highlights some news or an important announcement ;  
  This icon means that this section of the KCC website is restricted to the KCC Executive Committee Members only ;  
  This icon means the meeting minutes or report has not been supplied or the related meeting has not yet been held ;  
    This icon means the meeting was not held / cancelled ;  
    This icon means the report is embedded within another report and is not available separately ;  
    This icon means the document or report is not stored online for privacy or security reasons ;  
  This icon means "these are the guidelines but don't take it too seriously as we are open to parlay, negotiation or discussion re this" ;  
  This icon takes you to KCC's Facebook page outside of the KCC website.  
  1. What format are most of your documents on the KCC website in? How do I open them?
    • Documents and forms are generally in Adobe® Acrobat® Portable Document Format (PDF). You need to use Adobe® Acrobat® Reader or equivalent (such as Apple's Preview on macOS) to open and print documents and forms. You can obtain Adobe® Acrobat® Reader by clicking the red Adobe® icon under Additional Resources to the right of this page or other pages that have PDF links on them. If you have the necessary reader, just clicking on the link should open the document.
  2. What type of sailing does KCC cater to?
    • KCC caters for the casual and serious sailor alike. We sail "off the beach" catamarans and "cruising multihulls" on Sundays from September to April each year. KCC has also established a Junior sailing division in the very safe and fun monohull O'pen Skiff boat.  It doesn't matter if you are world champion or only have enough knowledge to get back to the beach. The club is a fun, family oriented club and we would love to have you join us.
  3. What classes of boat sail at the club?
    • KCC welcomes all sailing craft though its multihulls (including large cruising multihulls) that sail with us in the main. Predominately at the club we have "off the beach" catamarans from classes such as "A" Class, F16s, F18s, Hobiecat, Maricats, NACRAs, Paper Tigers, Prindles, Stingrays, Taipans, Tornados, Windrush and others are always welcome. Occasionally we even have a fleet of windsurfers who come along and sail.
    • KCC has also established a Junior sailing division in the very safe and fun monohull O'pen Skiff boat.
  4. What are KCC's opening hours?
    • 9.30am to 4.30pm on scheduled sailing dates as per the Race Calendar unless gazetted otherwise in a Regatta Notice of Race or Regatta Sailing Instructions.
    • Note: The club is usually open for the junior monohulls from 8.30am to 12.30pm on scheduled sailing dates as per the Junior Race Calendar unless gazetted otherwise in a Junior Regatta Notice of Race or Junior Regatta Sailing Instructions.
  5. Where are you located and how do I contact KCC?
    • We are at the corner of Ward Street and Prince Charles Parade, Kurnell, Sydney, NSW Australia 2231.
    • Note KCC has two physical buildings. The building at the corner of Ward Street and Prince Charles Parade Kurnell (i.e. 304 Prince Charles Parade, Kurnell) is the main clubhouse. The other building to the west at 310 Prince Charles Parade is what was the old Sutherland Shire Sailing Club and is now leased by KCC and used for storage of some boats with mast up and for storage of some juniors equipment.
    • Refer to the Contact link for full contact details including links to our email addresses, our postal address (which is different to our physical address), our phone number (which is only available on sailing days), our opening hours, our marine radio communication channel protocols (which is only available on sailing days during racing), maps and directions. 
    • Refer to the Committee page to see the names of the various Committee members at KCC who may be able to assist you with your query.
  6. Can I come along and try catamaran sailing or the junior monohulls with an aim to take it up as a sport, perhaps at your club?
    • Yes you are welcome to come along and we'll try to fix you up for a ride on one of our member's boats, subject to availability.
    • It's best to contact the KCC President or KCC Junior President and organise a date and time to come down, preferably between 9.30am and 10.30am on a Sunday race day, as after that many of our sailors are rigging up in preparation to race during the afternoon.
  7. How much does it cost?
    • Please refer to our Membership link for the schedule of fees both for members and non-members/guests. We strongly recommend you read all the attached/referenced documents and important notes on the Membership webpage.
    • Note that visiting/non-member guest sailors who sail and use the club's facilities are expected to pay the non-member's race day fee whether racing or not.
  8. Do you hire out boats?
    • Unfortunately not, however if you are a junior prospective sailor under 16 years of age, we do have three club O'pen Skiff boats available for Junior club members and prospective Junior club members to try out sailing in.
  9. When are membership fees due?
    • Annual membership fees and boat yard fees are generally due on the 1st September, but must be paid by 31st October.
    • Fees received after that may, at the discretion of the Executive Committee, incur a levy of up to 50% and/or a racing penalty.
    • New members joining mid season or mid year are not subject to the levy and the KCC Treasurer will determine a pro rata fee for the part season.
  10. What are the different types of membership available?
  Adult/Senior Full membership for a single adult of the KCC
  Family Full family membership of the KCC for those residing at the same home address
  Associate Members associated with the club, but not actively sailing
  Student Over 18 years of age at the start of the sailing season and attending a recognised College or University full time
  Junior Under 18 years of age at the start of the sailing season and cannot be covered by Family membership
  Honorary Temporary membership at the discretion of the KCC Committee for 1 month
  Life Life membership as ratified at an Annual General Meeting
  Junior Monohulls Individual Individual membership (1 junior) for those residing at the same address for the Junior monohulls division only.
  Junior Monohulls Family Family membership (multiple juniors) for those residing at the same address for the Junior monohulls division only
  Refer to the Membership webpage or the Constitution for further details.
  1. I've noticed you have Life Membership. How does that work? What are the benefits and how does one become a Life Member?
    • KCC's Life Members are special individuals who have been awarded KCC Life Membership in recognition of service rendered over a period in excess of 10 years in promoting the interests and objects of the club. KCC Life Membership is voted upon and awarded as a result of 75% of the attendees of the Annual General Meeting supporting the nomination.
    • Life Members do not pay annual membership fees, race fees or KCC annual regatta fees. They still pay for Boat Storage or for Regattas that are not KCC annual regattas (eg Class Championships etc).
    • You can see our Life Members and other sailing achievers on our Honour Boards.
  2. Do I need my own boat?
    • No you don't need your own boat, but you will need someone who is willing to have you on board as crew. If you cannot find someone, then we'll try and fix you up, but places are limited. Many people end up buying their own boat after a few sails and that is when the fun really starts.
  3. What if I need crew or am crew looking for a boat?
    • If you need crew or are crew looking for a regular ride, email the KCC Webmaster your details (and experience if crew) and we will place an advertisement on our For Sale/Wanted page requesting crew or detailing you as crew wanting a sail.
  4. Do you run/host regattas for any class of sailing boat?
    • Whilst we primarily host regattas for multihulls, we have, in the past, hosted other classes(including non-multihull) state and national titles. Subject to club resources being available and the timing against our own events and Race Calendar, we welcome classes wishing to run state or national titles at KCC. We usually require 9 months notice.
    • Contact the KCC President or Race Secretary for further information and a pricing quote. 
  5. What about very large multihulls, your Cruising Division?
    • KCC also caters for cruising style multihulls (i.e. large catamarans or trimarans that are generally large enough to have sleeping accomodation). Depending on the number of Cruising Division boats we have as members each year, we may run a Cruising Division series consisting of racing once per month. Additionally at Easter, we often run a 3 day regatta (the KCC Mega Multi Regatta) exclusively for Cruising Division boats.
    • Contact the Cruising Division Representative or Race Secretary for further information. 
  6. Can children sail and if so, what is the minimum age for them to sail at the club?
    • Whilst there is no minimum age, it really depends on how coordinated, strong and confident the child is. Needless to say, they should be able to swim. We tend to find because of the speed and power of catamarans, children tend to start crewing on average between about 11 and 13 years of age.
    • KCC has established a Junior sailing division in the very safe and fun monohull O'pen Skiff boat. This class targets children under 16 years of age, but is particularly focussed on those between about 7 and 13 years of age.
    • Contact the KCC Junior President or KCC Junior Representative for all enquires and checkout our Junior's Information Pack.
  7. What facilities are at the club house?
    • The club has men's and ladies separate toilet, change rooms and hot shower facilities. Additionally the club has a large balcony and internal seating and tables with a clear view of the sailing on Botany Bay as well as a canteen. There is a small pool table and TV. There is also ample parking in the street. In accordance with club policy no cash or valuables are left or stored on site.
  8. Do you teach sailing and offer training courses?
    • Unfortunately we do not run official tuition programs, however if you understand the basics there is always someone around to assist with improving your skills in rigging, sailing and racing.
    • KCC has, however, established a Junior sailing division in the very safe and fun monohull O'pen Skiff boat where there is informal tutition.  
  9. Is sailing dangerous?
    • Not normally, but like all sports there are risks. Participants must familiarise themselves with all the risks involved. Sailing can be a high risk sport and access to medical treatment and emergency services can be delayed. All participants must exercise their own judgement as to the risks involved. At a minimum participants must be competent swimmers, be physically fit, reasonably coordinated, not suffer from medical conditions that may affect their ability to participate, have the necessary safety gear/attire/boat in good working condition, wear a life jacket, be able to sail and handle a sail boat competently, have a knowledge of the sailing and boating rules, understand the local sailing area and weather/tidal conditions, be appropriately insured and understand the risks involved. Kurnell Catamaran Club Incorporated takes no responsibility for an individuals decision to sail, race or participate in any capacity with, or on behalf of the club.
    • Refer to the Disclaimer which outlines only some of the risks. Also refer to the Racing Rules of Sailing Rule 3 "Decision to Race".
    • If you are a novice, we recommend you confine your sailing days to days when the wind is blowing on shore (N, NE or E wind directions are best at the club) and the wind strength, including gusts, is less than 15 knots.
  10. I've heard catamarans capsize easily? What if I capsize? How do I right a catamaran?
    • This is a common myth, catamarans are actually much more difficult to capsize than monohull boats of equivalent size. However once they do capsize they can be more difficult to right quickly unless you use the correct technique. The golden rule when a catamaran capsizes is to not let go of the boat, when on their side they will drift faster than most people can swim. Always check on your crew/skipper for injuries immediately after a capsize. If you witness a capsize from another boat, check on them by sailing close to them or hailing them (it wont affect your results we'll award "redress" if necessary). Once over, you need to loosen off the mainsheets, traveller and jibsheets and any other sail controls that may cause the boat to sail away if its righted and you aren't yet on board. You must then manuevure the boat such that the mast points into the wind (this can often be achieved by sitting or standing on the lower hull when a catamaran is on its side, right down near the bow or stern), throwing a righting rope over the hull and then leaning (with assistance of crew or trapeze harness) out to bring the boat back to an upright position without letting it go back over in the process.
    • Feel free to ask our more experienced members such as our Division Captains (refer to our Committee page) to show you the correct technique before you experience a capsize.
    • Remember, never leave the boat, if you are sailing with us, the Support Boat will come to your aid if you signal them.
  11. What should I take on board the boat, what gear or attire do I need to sail?
    • All competitors shall wear whilst racing (and in our opinion whenever on the water), personal flotation devices which are in good condition and in accordance with the specifications issued or approved by a national authority affiliated to the International Sailing Federation, or a standards organization, or certification authority, recognized for the purpose by its respective government. What does this mean? In essense, it means you must wear a life jacket that is in good condition when on the water.
    • If you are sailing on a boat rigged with trapeze, then it is recommended you wear a trapeze harness. If your boat is a two or more person boat, you shouldn't sail it single handed. Other than that, suitable clothing for sailing on a boat in conditions that can vary with the weather. Many sailors wear wetsuits (steamers), rash vests, sailing gloves, wetsuit boots, hats, sunscreen, watch and sunglasses. Many take additional safety gear such as a shackle key, knife, whistle(for attracting attention), head gear/protection (for higher performance boats) and a bottle of fresh water. Bear in mind, you will get wet, so best to leave anything not salt water friendly onshore.
    • Needless to say, if you are on medication you should consider whether sailing may interfere with your condition or vice versa and whether you need to take medication when out on the water.
  12. Do I need a NSW Boat License to sail at KCC?
    • That depends. For "off the beach" catamarans and our junior monohulls you are not required under current laws (as at July'2023) to hold a boat license. Depending on your boat, for the large cruising multihulls you may be required to hold a boat license. To skipper our Support Boat(s) you are required to hold a Power Boat license.
    • Further information re Boat Licenses can be found on the NSW Government Maritime Licenses website page here.
  13. Can you recommend a boat or dealer?
    • Unfortunately not, suffice to say most beginners start in smaller 14' (<4.2m) boats and then graduate after a year or two to 16' (<5.2m) or even bigger. The most experienced sailors tend to sail the bigger boats and particularly those with spinnakers. However, we have a number of ex-champions sailing in our 14-15' single hand boats.
    • Our Junior division is targetting the O'pen Skiff monohull.
  14. When planning/intending to sail at KCC, what weather forecast should I look at?
    • KCC recommends using, at a minimum, the Australian Government Bureau of Meteorology (BOM) website including sections such as the BOM "Sydney Coastal Waters Forecast: Broken Bay to Port Hacking" and the BOM "Sydney Enclosed Waters Forecast: Sydney Harbour, Pittwater and Botany Bay" in conjunction with the BOM "NSW Warnings", BOM "Tide Predictions (Botany Bay)" and BOM "Sydney Radar Loop".
    • KCC also has a number of relevant links on our Weather webpage.
  15. What is the boat launching area like? Is it sand, mud, grass, coral, pebbles, shale, rocks, concrete wall or ramp?
    • The launch/retrieval area is from opposite the KCC clubhouse at Silver Beach, Kurnell, NSW. Silver Beach is a white fine grained sandy beach with a sand/sparce sea grass bottom that is usually a minimum of about 0.5 to 1.5 metres deep even at low tide for the first 30 metres from shore before dropping into deeper water. The beach is divided into multiple sections of 100 to 200 metres long separated by rock walls (~4 to 5 metres wide and ~30 to 50 metres long) that jut out into Botany Bay to stablise beach erosion and conditions. The water is enclosed within Botany Bay, NSW and effectively has little to no shore break except under very extreme conditions. It is an excellant "launch from the beach" area for sailing craft including those with dagger rudders and centreboards.
    • Larger cruising multihulls and similar craft should anchor at least 50 metres from shore (generally at least as far out as the end of the beach rock walls) and use relevant navigational charts, depth sounding gear and local tidal/weather information before anchoring.  
  16. Is there parking and a rigging area on sailing days for car/boats/trailers at the club? Is there a path from the rigging area to the beach sand?
    • Yes, there is council designated parking opposite the club backing onto the rigging area for car/trailer combinations. It should be noted that this is reserved for car/trailer combinations on Sundays during specific hours and vehicles must remain attached to the trailer to avoid council parking fines. The public may use this parking area outside the specified hours. The grass rigging area is adjacement to this parking.
    • There is also a cleared artifical path for launching/retrieving off the beach catamarans and small monohulls using beach wheels or hand trolleys from the rigging area to the beach sand. Vehicles cannot use this launch/retrieval path, however, about 500 metres west of the club on Prince Charles Parade there is a public boat ramp and public car/trailer parking area for larger craft and power boats.
  17. Can I take my four wheel drive vehicle onto the beach?
    • No, council fines apply.
  18. What are the two marks ~75 to 100 metres offshore directly opposite the club?
    • The two small yellow marks, lying in a line north of the club and approximately 75 to 100 metres offshore are used as finishing marks for selected club racing and are not available as mooring buoys! They are not designed for holding the bottom with a vessel attached. All craft should avoid the area near or between these marks on racing days unless participating in the event.
  19. Is there accomodation nearby if I am attending a KCC Regatta?
    • There is accomodation nearby in Kurnell and Cronulla. KCC recommends searching the internet with a search argument of "Accomodation Kurnell NSW" or "Accomodation Cronulla NSW". There is usually no accomodation at the club itself due to the conditions on KCC's lease.
  20. Can I camp on the beach or in the rigging area?
    • No, council fines apply.
  21. Is my boat/gear secure if left overnight in the rigging area, clubhouse or clubhouse surrounds during a regatta/event?
    • Security of persons, vehicles, trailers, boats and valuables/gear including from, but not limited to: accidental damage, criminal activities and weather events remains the responsibility of the individual. KCC accepts no liability and takes no responsibility for security of persons, vehicles, trailers, boats and valuables/gear.
    • To assist during multi-day regattas, KCC may, at our sole discretion, allow temporary usage of the locked KCC storage boat yards (subject to available space) at no charge for the duration of the regatta (also see FAQ 37 below). We may also elect to turn on the club's floodlights and other external lights during regattas and special events which provides some limited illumination of the rigging area and clubhouse surrounds. We sometimes, depending upon the size and length of the regatta, have a KCC Committee Member onsite to oversee the clubhouse overnight.
  22. Can I permanently store my boat at the club and if so, what does it cost?
    • Yes, we offer boat/trailer storage at a very competitive rate in our boat yards near the club. We also have a small lockable storage shed for a limited number of Junior member's O'pen Skiff monohull craft. Refer to the Membership link and to the KCC Boat Yard Policy Terms and Conditions for pricing, boat storage agreement form and the terms and conditions that apply to all craft stored.
  23. What's the deal with two boat yards for storage at KCC? How do I get my boat in either one or the other boat yard?
    • The "back boat yard" at 7-9 Ward Street, Kurnell is for storage of boats/trailers with their mast down (you cannot store mast up in this boat yard due to the powerlines across the road between the beach and the boat yard). The "front boat yard" in the grounds at 310 Prince Charles Parade Kurnell is where we can store boats with their masts raised. We have a policy of only frequently sailed boats using this yard. In addition to the two boat yards, KCC also has a small storage shed with limited storage for a number Junior member's O'pen Skiff monohull craft.
  24. Is my boat/trailer secure in the storage areas?
    • Whilst the storage areas/shed are fenced and secured by padlocks, security of trailers, boats and valuables/gear including from, but not limited to: accidental damage, criminal activities and weather events remains the responsibility of the owner. KCC accepts no liability and takes no responsibility for security of trailers, boats and valuables/gear.
    • Due to the possible exposure of the boat yards to strong winds during extreme weather events, it is recommended that boat owners securely anchor/tie down their boats. Be aware there is underground power in the "front boat yard" that poses a hazard when using stakes/anchors to secure a boat to the ground - extreme caution should be exercised.  
  25. Is temporary boat storage available for members or guests?
    • Yes, KCC Casual Boat Yard Storage is subject to availability and discretion of KCC Race Committee and must have a KCC Race Committee Member’s written approval. Refer to the current year's KCC Sailing Instructions for Race Committee Members, but it usually consists of the KCC Executive Committee, Assistant Race Secretary and Boat Captain.
    • There is a ten (10) day minimum and thirty (30) day maximum term for temporary storage and it must be pre-paid. A KCC Race Committee Member will determine the actual storage space and in which boat yard.
    • For KCC Casual Boat Yard Storage, no key will be issued or lent and hence casual storage users must coordinate entry/exit of boats with the KCC sailing dates and times.
    • The KCC Boat Yard Storage Agreement (refer Membership link) must still be fully completed and signed by the Boat Owner for casual storage and the relevant KCC Boat Yard Policy Terms and Conditions still apply.
  26. Can I bring my new / second hand boat along for someone to show me how to rig up?
    • Yes, as long as you arrive early on a Sunday. For example after 9.30am but before 10.30am; after that Members are usually busy preparing their own boats for the afternoon's racing.
    • Contact the KCC President or a KCC Division Captain and it may be possible to organise some early "one on one" assistance.
  27. My boat is not seaworthy or needs repairs, can you help?
    • Your best bet here is to come down and ask us for advice one Sunday morning. Organise a time and date through the President, Vice President or Race Secretary. They can also introduce you to the Division Captains and/or Junior President that usually specialise in your class of boat. If possible, bring the boat, sail, gear or offending parts with you.
    • Alternatively look on our Links webpage under the category of Sponsors or Manufacturers for additional support.
  28. What if I have a boat to sell or I want to buy a boat?
    • You can email the KCC Webmaster and they will place it on the For Sale/Wanted webpage. Please read all the conditions on this webpage. We don't charge for placing the advertisements, but its customary for a small donation or some exchange of services if we are responsible for your sale.
  29. What if I have an old boat or equipment/gear I want to donate to KCC?
    • KCC generally welcomes donations of old boats as long as they are in reasonable shape and easy to transport to the club in terms of distance and size of the boat. Sometime we use these boats for spare parts, sometimes for club members and sometimes we sell them after minor repairs using the revenue to better the club generally. The club however, is not a dumping ground for unserviceable/unneeded boats, equipment or gear. So please, don't be upset if we decline your boat or equipment/gear offer.
  30. What if I just want to crew at KCC and don't have my own boat or even want one in the future?
    • You can email the KCC Webmaster and they will place an advertisement on the For Sale/Wanted webpage to link "would be" crews up with skippers. Please read all the conditions on webpage. This is a free service.
  31. Do you have people watching and looking after me when I'm on the water?
    • During racing periods (most Sunday afternoons September to April), KCC has a Support Boat (twin hulled Webster powerboat with 90hp outboard) on the water that is in radio contact with the club. Additionally an Officer of the Day oversees the clubhouse and provides additional observation of the bay from the clubhouse. The KCC Junior monohull sailing division also has Support boat(s) on the water when they are active (usually AM on designated sailing dates).
    • We also have very strict rules regarding when to sail in relation to the weather. For more information consult our Operational Plan and the Sailing Instructions. All boats are required to have righting ropes on them(towing rings and bridles are recommended) and all sailors must wear lifejackets when on the water.
    • If you are a very raw beginner at sailing, we strongly recommend you confine your sailing to days when the actual wind strength (including gusts) is less than 15 knots and the wind is blowing onto the shore (N, NE or E wind directions are best at the club).
    • If you are not actually racing but still having a pleasure sail, we recommend you let both the Officer of the Day and the Boat Captain know that you will be on the water and stay within reasonable visual contact of both the clubhouse and the Support Boat. We also recommend you finish sailing and come ashore before the final race of the day completes (Support Boat will commence picking up the racing marks (yellow buoys) when the final race is finished) as the Support Boat will come ashore then and observation of the water from the clubhouse ceases then.
  32. What facilities are at the club if there is an emergency, someone is injured or someone has a medical episode?
    • The club has an Operational Plan to deal with emergency situations including a Risk Management Plan in Appendix B of this document.
    • At the clubhouse we have a first aid kit, on site clubhouse phone access to emergency services, club and support boat radio access to monitored VHF and UHF radio channels (eg the coast guard etc), clubhouse fire extinguishers, clubhouse signed emergency exits and a defibrillator.
    • Our support boats have the relevant government mandated safety equipement as well as VHF radio contact with the clubhouse when they are on duty on the water.
  33. Are there insurance  requirements?
    • Yes, boat owners must have their boat insured (including racing cover if you intend to race) for third party property.
    • Additionally you must have a minimum $10m AUD (or the figure mandated in any associated sailing instructions) third party personal liability cover. It is recommended that you have full comprehensive insurance but this is obviously a personal decision.
    • The club itself also has the legislated public liability insurance.
  34. Do I have to join Australian Sailing?
    • Yes, members are required to join and subscribe annually as part of their membership (i.e. the Australian Sailing membership fee is embedded within your KCC membership fee.) You do not pay separately.
    • All KCC memberships, where the sailor is still actively participating in sailing, include Australian Sailing membership except Associate and Honorary Membership. It is only included for Life Members where the member is still actively sailing at KCC.
    • The benefits and other pertinent information can be found on the Australian Sailing website.
    • Note if you intend to race at regattas, it is often a requirement that you prove your Australian Sailing membership. The KCC Treasurer can assist you with finding out your membership number and details after you have joined the club and Australian Sailing has acknowledged your membership. Alternatively, you can self-check if you are an active Australian Sailing member or find your membership number by clicking on this Aust Sailing Number Finder? external link.
  35. Do I have to join KCC when sailing, can't I just come along and sail as a visitor or guest regularly?
    • Generally visiting sailors who sail/compete on more than 3 occasions in a season are expected to join KCC. Visiting sailors/non-members/guests who sail and who use the club's facilities are expected to pay the non-member's fee race day fee whether racing or not. It is usually more cost effective to sail regularly as a member.
    • Visitors will still show in the individual race day results but will not be shown in aggregate scores or be eligible for perpetual trophies/prizes.
  36. Ok, so when do you sail and what type of races and courses do you have?
  37. Wow, that lost me. What is a Notice of Race and what are Sailing Instructions?
    • The Notice of Race is just an announcement about a special sailing event, when its occurring and other details. Think of it as an announcement or flyer pinned to a notice board telling you all about the event. Sailing Instructions are the rules under which the events will be conducted, including the starting procedures, the course maps etc.
  38. Do I have to race?
    • Of course not, but many find it improves their skills and adds that little bit of extra enjoyment. However, we have members who do no more than come for a casual sail that coincides with the club being open.
  39. So I don't know the rules of sailing a racing catamaran. Who do I give way to? When do I have right of way? Where can I find them?
    • The Racing Rules of Sailing can be viewed at the link Racing Rules of Sailing online. In particular, you should familiarise yourself with the Rules in Part 1, Part 2 and the Race Signals.
  40. OK I've read the rules, but really have no idea how to get started in racing at the Club?
    • Firstly, you should consult with an experienced sailor in your division or class of boat at the club. Ideally the Division Captains are best placed to sort out most of your queries (refer to the Committee page).
    • Divisions are how we segregate boats based on size or other characteristics like performance. As a guide, the Divisions can be found in the current year's Sailing Instructions. Juniors should seek out the Junior President.
    • Then we suggest you go sailing and just follow your Division around the race course for a few races, observing the starting procedures, finishing procedures, signals and how boats generally give way to one another.
    • Another good source of information is our Race Secretary and Assistant Race Secretary who will both be only too eager to assist you.
  41. How do I see my results?
    • Race results are published on the KCC website Results page usually within 48 hours of the day's racing. You can also see archived results for previous years there.
  42. What if I disagree with the race results or wish to protest against the actions of another sailor or the officials ?
    • Your first course of action should always be to consult in an amicable manner with the competitor or official involved. If you cannot resolve then you should consult with the Officer of the Day, your Division Captain and/or the KCC Race Secretary.
    • If you wish to formalise your protest, you can obtain a protest form at the clubhouse or link to and download the protest form from the Sailing Instructions webpage.
    • There are time limits and rules around lodging protests and whilst you are well within your rights to protest, it is not a very common thing to pursue at the club.
  43. Do I have to do duties around the club?
    • Yes, all members are expected to complete at least one rostered duty day per season (refer to the Duty Roster webpage) and usually two if we don't get enough volunteers or too many sailors cancelling at the last minute. If you contact the KCC Vice President, they will try and accomodate your preferred  dates on a first in, first served basis. If you don't, they'll roster you at random across the season.
    • Your duty role could be as Officer of the Day, Boat Captain (if you hold a power boat license) or Boat Crew. Don't worry, we don't put people in roles until they are ready, confident and tell us they are competent to do them. New members are usually rostered on with more experienced members in their first season. Click here to see a description of your duty responsibilities.
    • Most of the forms you will need when on duty, such as sign-on sheets, time keepers sheets etc can be found on the Sailing Instructions webpage.
    • Additionally we haveworking bees scheduled on the Race Calendar to mow lawns and do odd jobs and maintenance around the club. We encourage members (including junior parents/guardians) to also assist at two or three of these each year.  
  44. Will doing duty affect my race results/scores?
    • The effect on your results depends on the current year's Sailing Instructions, but generally the combination of race calendar and sailing instructions has been designed by our Race Committee to ensure that duty has minimal effect on a sailors results.
  45. Can I bring the family, young children, pets, grandma and grandpa etc?
    • Absolutely, they may be future Olympians or Australian Champions (well maybe not the pets) or just your biggest supporter. The club is large and roomy inside. We do ask though, that you supervise children under the care of a responsible adult and not leave them on their own in the club, surrounding grounds or boat yards.
    • KCC has established a Junior sailing division in the very safe and fun monohull O'pen Skiff boat for juniors. 
    • Pets are not permitted inside the clubhouse building, we have no objections to them outside as long as they are well behaved in nature and supervised.
    • Don't forget to clean up after them if they make a mess - that goes for the pets too :-)
  46. Can I take my dog onto the beach?
    • Not where we rig/sail (opposite the club), but approximately 100-150 metres west of the club on Prince Charles Parade there is a section of Silver Beach that is council designated friendly for dogs. Refer to local beach signage for details.
  47. I'm probably going to be pretty hopeless at racing, what's the point if I'm against all these hot shot sailors?
    • Whilst our Club Championship racing is aimed at the best sailor winning, our other race series all have personal handicaps applied, so you can come physically last across the finish line and depending upon your handicap still win the event. Its all about continuous improvement. Those that improve the most tend to win handicap events and because beginners tend to improve fastest, then they have a definite advantage here.
  48. I have heard that KCC has developed a modified form of the original Victorian Yachting Club (VYC) yardsticks (now Australian Sailing Catamaran yardsticks) for use in events at the club. What are the KCC yardsticks or what yardsticks do you use?
    • Yes we did, however the Australian Sailing Catamaran yardsticks are now identical and have been for several years now so the KCC ones have been retired.
    • KCC uses the Australian Sailing Catamaran yardsticks which, using results gathered over many seasons is a set of boat handicaps used to determine mixed fleet racing results (all other things being equal) which fairly reflects the current crop of modern racing catamarans.
    • There is a link to the Australian Sailing Catamaran yardsticks from the Sailing Instructions webpage.
  49. Is the club licensed for alcohol?
    • Yes, but it is a very strict operating license for members and visiting sailors/guests after sailing and only on sailing days and specially pre-designated event dates. The club abides by all laws concerning the responsible serving of alcohol(RSA) and it is only available when the qualified RSA certificate holders and Licensee are present. You cannot just walk in off the street and purchase alcohol.
    • If you hold a current Responsible Serving of Alcohol (RSA) Competency Card and are a member/prospective member and would like to assist KCC in meeting our obligations re the responsible serving of alcohol when you are on duty or attending KCC events, please write "RSA" when answering the "special conditions KCC should be aware of" question on your membership application or renewal.   
  50. Do you have poker or gambling machines?
    • No
  51. Is smoking or vaping permitted inside the clubhouse, on the club's balcony or on your support boats?
    • No
  52. Is food, soft drink, tea/coffee available at the club?
    • Yes, we have a canteen that opens up just before lunch time and closes an hour or two after racing, usually around 4.30pm.
  53. So what's on the canteen menu? Is it available to the public?
    • Generally the canteen is available to members and guests as well as bona fide visiting sailors and their guests. It is not available to the general public.
    • Items on the menu include sandwiches, pies, sausage rolls, snacks (potato chips, chocolates etc), tea/coffee, water, soft drinks and alcohol (at selected times when a club RSA certificate holder and the Licensee are present) all at reasonable prices. During regattas and special events additional menu items and/or specific catering is often available.
  54. Does the club take EFTPOS (eg credit card, eftpos, apple pay etc) for payment for food/drink/fees?
    • Yes it is preferred.
  55. Is the KCC Clubhouse available for hiring or public use? (e.g. weddings, birthdays, engagement parties, fund raising events)
    • Generally no, however, it may be available as part of a KCC Executive approved and authorised sailing regatta or similar associated event that supports the local community. This is subject to very specific conditions including KCC's own racing calendar requirements and availability.
    • Contact the KCC Race Secretary, KCC President or the KCC Secretary for further enquires, T&Cs (e.g. Insurance conditions, RSA certificate holders, licensed alcohol dates etc) and potential charges. Such requests usually require a minimum of at least 9 months notice.
  56. Are the KCC Support Boats or Tractor available for hiring or public use?
    • Generally no, however, as part of a KCC Executive approved and authorised specific sailing regatta or event KCC has in the past supplied a crewed Support Boat to assist. This is subject to very specific conditions including KCC's own racing calendar support requirements and the availability of our volunteer members to captain and crew the vessel.
    • Contact the KCC Race Secretary, KCC President or the KCC Secretary for further enquires, T&Cs (e.g. Insurance conditions, Boat and Tractor registration conditions, Boat License etc) and potential charges. Such requests usually require a minimum of at least 9 months notice.
  57. How do I get on to Committee and help out at the club?
    • Simply nominate for Committee at the Annual General Meeting that is usually held in early May each year.
    • Refer to the Committee page for the AGM Notice and Committee Nomination Forms and a description of the Committee Duties.
    • Also refer to the Constitution which describes the electoral rules.
  58. Is KCC a profitable organisation and is it privately owned?
    • KCC Incorporated is an incorporated body under the Associations Incorporation Act of 1984. KCC is a non-profit, volunteer staffed and run, sporting club that exists for its members. It is not a singular privately owned enterprise.
  59. My company or I would like to sponsor KCC or a KCC event. How do I go about it?
    • You may be able to obtain naming rights to an event, your companies name or logo advertised on flags, banners or the side of our Support Boats as well as your logo on our website depending on the type and size of the sponsorship (which could be either cash, goods, prizes or services to the club).
    • Contact the KCC President or KCC Publicity Officer.  
  60. What if I don't want to be on Committee, don't want to sail, but am just looking to do some casual volunteer work perhaps at your club?
    • We have several honorary associate members doing volunteer work at the Club such as timekeeping, driving and crewing on our Support Boats etc.
    • Contact the KCC President and discuss how you might like to contribute.
  61. Does the club have WIFI / internet access?
    • Yes, but for selected KCC Executive Committee members only. It is mainly used for monitoring weather conditions and for transferring results. It is generally not available to other members. It is not available to visitors, guests or the public.
  62. Is KCC active on social media?
    • KCC has a Facebook page, a link to which exists on the right hand side at the bottom of the Additional Resources column on most of our website's webpages. KCC does not have Instagram, Twitter, TicTok or other social media accounts.
  63. I'd like a larger copy of a photo from your website's Photo Gallery. How do I get a copy?
    • Full sized copies of photos in JPG format (if the original source still exists with the KCC Webmaster) from the KCC website's Photo Gallery are available to relevant club members, those depicted in the photo, or if a child is depicted, to the parents, grandparents or a guardian.
    • Email the file/photo name to the KCC Webmaster.
    • Note that the KCC Webmaster does not control access to, or have the ability to supply photos that are on the club's Facebook page.
  64. What other important documents or rules should I be aware of at the club?
  65. I'm sure what I want is on your website but I can't seem to find it in the FAQ or elsewhere. Any ideas?
    • If you cannot find what you want from the main KCC home page or the Site Map, try using our Search page or when all else fails, email the KCC Webmaster from the Contact page.
  66. Who can I ask if I have more questions?
    • You can contact us from our Contact link or alternatively come along one Sunday morning after 9.30am but preferably before 10.30am and have a chat to us. If you see us on the beach, don't be shy, come up and say "hi". If you mention the website, we might even buy you a tea or coffee at the club's canteen.
    • Additionally our Links page has hyperlinks to many other sailing resources and general websites of interest.
    • Our Photo Gallery page and Facebook page can show you some of the action and fun.
  67. I'm hooked where can I get a Membership Application form or other relevant forms and how do I pay?
    • Please refer to our Membership link for the membership terms and conditions and application/renewal form(s) which also contains payment details.
    • There is a form for full Catamaran Club membership (which includes, as relevant, catamaran membership, the cruising division, juniors, Australian Sailing membership and/or boat storage) or a separate form for those that are only joining/sailing in the Junior monohulls.
    • There is also a boat storage agreement if you are storing your boat at KCC and a form to register your boat for racing at the club, if you desire to race.
    • You will need a PDF reader such as Apple Preview on macOS or Adobe® Acrobat® Reader or equivalent to read the forms.
  68. Thanks for all that, I'd like to give feedback on your website or club. Who do I contact?
    • Email the KCC Webmaster (see Contact page) and your feedback will be passed onto the appropriate committee member.

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