Sailors past and present converged on the shores of Lake Cootharaba to celebrate a remarkable milestone – the 80th anniversary of the Lake Cootharaba Sailing Club.
Founded in 1946, just after the end of World War II, the club has grown from humble beginnings into one of Queensland’s most iconic inland sailing venues, attracting generations of families to the water.
The anniversary celebrations brought together life members, former Commodores, junior sailors and long-time volunteers, many sharing stories of learning to sail on the shallow, wind-swept lake that has become synonymous with the region’s boating culture.
Noosa MP Sandy Bolton was among the hundreds who attended the festivities, praising the club’s enduring legacy.
“Happy birthday Lake Cootharaba Sailing Club – 80 laps around the sun and sailing stronger than ever,” Ms Bolton said.
“Hundreds gathered to share memories, mateship and fascinating history – including about ‘that’ rock. Fabulous photos, minutes of that first committee meeting, and catching up with our first families and legend Charlie Hacker gave insights into how special this club is, and why it is the ‘anchor’ for celebrations and deliberations.”
Ms Bolton congratulated past and present members for “keeping traditions alive while welcoming new generations aboard”.
“Gratitude to Commodore Paul and the amazing teams, to the incredibly informative speakers, and to every volunteer, family, supporter and sponsor who made this club what it is today – and those who will continue to into the future – all of this without poker machines,” she said.
Commodore Paul said the 80-year milestone was a testament to the dedication of volunteers and the strong sense of community that defines the club.
“For eight decades, this club has been powered by volunteers and families who simply love sailing,” he said.
“Lake Cootharaba offers something truly special – wide open water, steady breezes and a welcoming atmosphere for sailors of all ages.”
Over the years, the club has hosted countless regattas, state titles and national championships, drawing competitors from across Queensland and beyond. Its junior sailing programs have introduced hundreds of local children to the sport, with some going on to compete at elite levels.
The celebrations included commemorative races, a gala dinner and the unveiling of historic photographs documenting the club’s early days – when timber dinghies were hauled up the sandy shoreline and races were timed by hand.
Eighty years on, the sails still fill with wind across Lake Cootharaba each weekend – a fitting tribute to the vision of those who first formed the club and a promising sign that its legacy will endure for decades to come.
