Sailors unfurl new venue

Changes to Geographe Bay Raceweek will see a return to its original concept after a hiatus.

After months of negotiations, Geographe Bay Yacht Club committee and Port Geographe Marine management announced next year’s event will be held at the Port Geographe Marina and The Deck Tavern complex.

The regatta, now in its 13th year, draws up to 120 yachts from clubs across WA.

GBYC commodore Ken Waller said they were looking forward to promoting Geographe Bay as a world-class sailing destination.

“With the change of venue and new strategic plan we expect to see the event grow substantially in the coming three years,” he said.

“The move to the marina was brought about through consultation with past competitors, and the convenience of being located in the marina will make the event more user-friendly.”

Port Geographe Marina manager Bob Godridge and Raceweek director Nigel Chesterfield-Evans have been working on the move to Port Geographe.

Geographe Bay Raceweek 2014 will be held from February 16 to 22.