Lake Samsonvale is an ideal place for people to learn to sail due to the lighter breezes it receives in comparison to the Bay; in addition, the fact that it is fully enclosed provides a very safe environment which both children and parents find reassuring. 

For a number of years LSWSA has been operating a learn-to-sail program which is designed primarily for children. The Club has purchased 10 Open Bic dinghies which have proven to be ideal for kids just starting to learn, right through to those older children who have more advanced skills and are keen to hit the racing course. The training operates during the warmer months on the alternate Sundays to the Club’s racing days. 

Our program differs from most as new-comers are welcome to join the group at any time during the season whereas most clubs run 8 week blocks of training modules. This means that kids can join at any time and get on the water quickly! 

Each training session starts off with some sailing theory on the deck of the club-house (0930hrs) and then we move down to the shed and rig our boats. The kids are briefed on our planned activities and then hit the water with our coaches and two safety boats to put into practice what they have learnt. Novice sailors are usually paired with either a more experienced student or with a coach until they are sufficiently competent and confident to sail alone. 

Once the on-water activities are completed the kids are de-briefed and what they have learnt (theory and practical) is consolidated. Then it is back up to the clubhouse deck for a well-earned sausage sizzle and some time together. 

Given that sailing is very dependent on wind and weather conditions it is possible that instructors may need to restrict the number of boats they allow on the water at any one time in order to maintain a safe ratio of sailors to rescue boats. They also reserve the right to not allow boats on the water at all if the conditions are sufficiently extreme to warrant it. Please note that the wearing of buoyancy vests (correctly fitted and fastened) is mandatory at all times whilst on the water.

Cost

Your LSWSA family membership will entitle your children to take part in this training.

NB. Please ensure you contact the Sail Training Co-ordinator (Patrick Vale) at an early stage to ensure that vacancies still exist in the Juniors program – training@lswsa.org.au

Or …prior to taking out family membership…

Lake Samsonvale Water Sports Association does not presently run a formal adult training program. There are a few good options for getting into sailing with us however. 

Many adults who have purchased a small dinghy or catamaran enjoy sailing on the safe waters of our lake, particularly on Junior Learn to Sail days, as you know there will be some helpful advice on hand and a couple of safety boats on the water should you get in trouble. On most weekend days you will find someone at the lake who can give you hand. Please get in touch with our training coordinator Patrick Vale if you would like to organise a visit or explore your options.

We also encourage people to explore the Australian Sailing, Try Sailing days and courses offered by Royal Queensland Yacht Squadron, Humpybong Yacht Club and Southport Yacht Club.