FEMALE sailors are showcasing the success of Sorrento Sailing Couta Boat Club’s commitment to female participation, leadership and opportunity.
The waters of Pittwater and Sydney Harbour are playing host to the 2026 Couta Boat National Championships this October, and one crew is capturing particular attention.
Representing SSCBC, an all-female crew aboard the 98-year-old heritage Couta Boat Wattle is competing against some of the nation’s most experienced sailors, demonstrating how women are increasingly shaping the future of the sport.
The Couta Boat Association National Championships are held in New South Wales every four years, ordinarily held off the waters of SSCBC, Victoria every December.
When SSCBC member Russell Barrett offered his beautifully restored Division 1 Couta Boat Wattle for competition, the crew jumped at the opportunity.
Following routine winter maintenance at The Wooden Boatshop in Sorrento, Wattle made the journey north on the back of a truck, race-ready and carrying with her a powerful message about participation, inclusion and leadership.
While SSCBC has earned national recognition for excellence, including being named Australian Sailing Victorian Club of the Year in 2024 and Discover Sailing Centre of the Year in 2025, the Club’s greatest achievement may be the growing number of women stepping into leadership roles both on and off the water.
The all-female crew aboard Wattle reflects that vision in action.
As racing continues over the coming weekends, SSCBC encourages the Mornington Peninsula community to get behind the crew and celebrate what they represent.
First published in the Southern Peninsula News – 14 October 2026
