1966 Brisbane to Gladstone Race Report

Source: 1967 Multihull Annual

On Good Friday morning - April 1966, light north easterly winds filled the sails of the 8 yachts off Sandgate Pier.

Suddenly, the sound of the starters gun heralded the start of the Multi Hull Brisbane to Gladstone Yacht Race.

Progress was slow until the early hours of Saturday morning, when a more favourable south easterly enabled the yachts to clear Caloundra and head northwards.

As the wind freshened steady progress was made, with no mishaps apart from several reports of broken gear. However, this caused no major setbacks and all starters finished the course, with Privateer taking out line honours in her First Brisbane to Gladstone race.

She was followed by Vagabond the previous year’s winner, with Turrama third, followed by Coolaroo, Naxos, Triumph, Naiad and Tringa.

First on corrected time was Privateer, Turrama second, then Coolaroo.

The citizens of Gladstone turned out to cheer the incoming yachts and their crews, who were later given a cordial welcome by the Mayor of Gladstone, Mr. W.( Bill) Stobo.

Once again the crews sampled Gladstone’s famous hospitality.

At the presentation of trophies - held at Port Curtis Sailing Club, skippers, crews and friends were entertained in a right royal manner - a memorable finale to another Brisbane to Gladstone race.

Privateer, a vagabond Mark II design by Hedley Nicol. Built by Multi Hull Industries. 36 ft. long with 24 ft. beam. Weight 35 cwt. Carries mast 38 ft. high. Carries working sail area of 525sq.ft. Launched February 1966 and as yet only contested 2 races, both of which she has won in fastest time.

Owner and Skipper Hedley Nicol

Navigator/Radio Operator Paul Hopkins, Forward Hands Bob Govan and Roy Spring, Main Sheet Hands Martin Pulley and Allan Nicol