I arrived at the lake on Wednesday afternoon to warm weather, a steady breeze, and a lake that looked far too inviting to stay on shore. The early arrivals, Martin’s, Katrina Mackie & Stuart Scott had already claimed their spots and settled into regatta mode, with more Safety Beach crew gradually rolling in from late Wednesday night through to Friday morning.

 

Friday’s racing went well (so I’m told!). The required number of races was completed, which meant everyone could relax afterwards with a drink by the lake. Being Good Friday, many enjoyed the traditional fish dinner, while others took a more flexible approach to the menu. Safety Beach Sailing Club was, once again, out in force. We had one of the largest groups at the regatta, with a great mix of familiar faces. Charlie from Metung sailed with Zac Lowe on a Flying Dutchman, Oscar from Paynesville sailed with Ollie Bulka on a 420, Darcy from RBYC sailed with Jess Lowe on a 420, Steph K sailed with Eliza Kemp on a 420. AND, one of our youngest junior members Parker Draper age 6 was onboard his dad - Matt Drapers - Flying Dutchman for the regatta.

 

The variety of boats on the water was impressive, ranging from smaller single-person dinghies through to high-performance catamarans and larger two-person racing boats. Our club was represented by, Sabre’s, Tasars, 420’s, Impulses, A Class Cat’s, Flying Dutchman’s. Our club also played an important role off the water. For the first time, two of our RHIBS made the trip to Boga to assist the race organisers. These boats are essential for safety and smooth race operations, and their contribution was greatly appreciated. A big thank you to Ross Martin for helping make that happen — the Boga organisers made sure we knew just how grateful they were. It’s clear that ongoing support like this will be key to keeping this much-loved regatta running for years to come.

 

Saturday kicked off early, with another full schedule of racing completed before most people had properly woken up. Once the serious business was done, the afternoon returned to what this regatta does best — swimming, relaxing, and catching up with friends from other clubs. Come evening, the crowd split into two very important camps: those heading to the pub for dinner, and those staying back for the club’s annual cheese and wine tasting. The latter group backed it up with a full roast dinner and dessert, proving that sailing is really just an excuse to eat well. After dinner, the campfire was lit and attention turned skyward. Some were hoping to catch a glimpse of Artemis II, while others enthusiastically participated in the classic regatta game: “Is it a satellite or an airplane?” (results remain inconclusive).

 

Sunday morning brought the racing in close to shore, which was perfect for spectators — particularly those with absolutely no idea what they were watching. Confident commentary was provided regardless, much to the amusement (and possible confusion) of passersby. After lunch, the wind dropped off and racing was called for the day. With many boats still rigged, it quickly turned into a social sail and an unofficial coaching session. Nick Meijer took Will Bulka out in a 420 and had him out on the trapeze for some added excitement. Gary Cameron offered guidance to Greg, James and Bill before they headed off in a Flying Dutchman. Abbey Everett took mum Michelle for a spin in her 420. Not to be left out, Jess Lowe and her friend Darcy jumped into a Tasar and set off toward the middle of the lake — where, ironically, the wind was just not strong enough to justify the afternoon racing. Meanwhile, Katrina’s standup paddleboard was “borrowed” by a group of teenagers who paddled their way into the action. What followed has been described (with varying degrees of accuracy) as a pirate situation: Greg and James somehow returned to shore on Katrina's standup paddleboard, Bill was temporarily unaccounted for, the Tasar appeared to have acquired a different crew, and the Flying Dutchman was still flying along with its kite up. In short, a completely normal afternoon at Boga.

 

Monday morning had everyone up early and ready to go, with sailors prepared for a 9am start. However, after some waiting around, racing was postponed and ultimately abandoned — with enough races already completed to lock in the results. With that, focus quickly shifted from racing to packing. The goal? Beat the inevitable Easter traffic. After a few hours of rain overnight, conditions were warm and damp, making for a slightly steamy (and slightly uncomfortable) pack-up. Tents were folded, boats were loaded onto trailers, and straps were tightened with varying levels of enthusiasm. By the end of it all, it’s fair to say most of us felt like we needed another swim. While some made a quick getaway, a few stayed behind for the presentation. Our club was once again thanked for its support — particularly for bringing the RHIBs to assist with race management — and a number of members took home prizes.

 

As for the official results… I wasn’t there, so I can’t report too much. There is a results link floating around, although I’m told it may or may not be entirely accurate.

 

Once again, the Lake Boga Yacht Club delivered a fantastic regatta. With the mix of sailing, socialising, and just the right amount of chaos, it’s easy to see why this event continues to be a favourite.If you missed it this year — or haven’t yet experienced “Boga” — it’s well worth putting in the calendar for next year. It’s a great weekend, whether you’re there to sail, relax, or simply enjoy the atmosphere.

 

Oh and due to the shenanigans on Sunday arvo, I was unable to get a team photo as per every other year. Sorry. Gallery of other photos below.

 

Fiona

 

Do you need a boat licence? What about your friends?

Send me an email to secure your place in the course!

Nonsubsidised pricing also available for members who are not interested in volunteering!

 

I thought to myself – no sailing over Easter so nothing to report. WRONG.

 

To be followed by the penultimate heat of the Club Championship shoot-out.

I am putting an agenda together, including the following items (in no particular order):

• Last year’s meeting including the decision to start an Honour Board for the Keelboat Club Championship AMS &/or ORC Champions
• The draft Winter Series program
• Tower volunteer duty and training – Winter program and beyond
• The Boat Licence Course at SBSC for this Saturday 0900 to 1400
• The re-vamp of the Tower I ask that any other agenda suggestions be sent to me by email at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or text to 0421 830 844.

We will need to drive the agenda along as some of us will need to be on the water for the Club Championship race, which has a 13:00 start time.

See you on Sunday!

Race Start Time	12.55H Boat start
Race Officer	Vitesse
Duty Boat	Whiskers
Set Up/Results	Elaine

 

BOGAN BINGO IS COMING TO SBSC - THIS IS BINGO LIKE YOU'VE NEVER EXPERIENCED IT BEFORE
Get ready for a night of fun, music, laughs and a unique bingo experience with a cheeky twist. 🎉

This isn’t your nan’s bingo… expect 80s & 90s bangers, outrageous games, air-guitar battles, plenty of banter and absolute chaos run by Adam & his professional team🤘

Come dressed to impress in your best bogan attire — mullets, flanno, leopard print, double denim, all strongly encouraged !

OR just come as yourself, ready for a hilariously good time. Let’s see who ends up being the ultimate bogan bingo champ!

Skippers gather your crew together - OTB sailors create a table, members bring your friends / family for a rip-roaring fun night as we near the end of our 2025-2026 season.

👉 Book your tickets through the link below: Click HERE to book

Gallery of Lake Boga Easter Regatta