A small but enthusiastic group gathered at the club to learn basic sailing skills and water safety.

Discover Sailing Centre principal Greg Rowsell said Thursday was about participation.

“It’s just a chance for everyone to have a go,” he said.

“A number of the participants were orchestrated through one of the schools in the area, and we also have keelboat sailing for some of the older ones.”

The session acted as a precursor to the club’s weekly learn to sail programs, which begin this month.

The Tackers (age six to 12) and Youth (12 and over) lessons both start at 10am on Sunday, October 21. Mr Rowsell said the programs were about providing equipment and instruction in a safe and supervised environment.

“It’s open to members and non-members,” he said.

“Some of the ones who try it out may not come back, but others may find out that it is something they want to do more of.”