Since its establishment in 1974, Shelley Sailing Club has been a prominent sports club located on the tranquil Canning River in Perth, Western Australia. The club prides itself on providing a family-friendly environment where individuals of all ages can learn and enjoy the art of sailing.
Situated on the peaceful Canning River, Shelley Sailing Club offers a unique sailing experience away from the heavy traffic of the Swan River. With generally shallow waters, it is an ideal location for beginners and experienced sailors alike to appreciate the finer points of sailing.
While the club primarily caters to less experienced sailors, it has also produced talented individuals who have achieved State Champion status and represented the state in National Championships. The club's focus on family sailing is evident through the various classes available for all members of the family to participate in. These classes include Catamarans, Lasers, Scow Moths, Herons, Flying Ants, Mudlarks, and Minnows.
Sailing takes place at the club on Sundays from mid-October to April. The club organises racing events for juniors starting at 10:00 am, followed by Open Series races at 2:00 pm. In addition to regular races, the Shelley Sailing Club also hosts special invitation events such as the Convict Bay Regatta in January and the Cock of the Canning in March.
The club's junior Development Programme offers options for sailors aged 8 and above to learn and compete in Minnows and Mudlarks on Sunday mornings. As an accredited Yachting Australia – Discover Sailing Centre, the club offers “learn to sail” courses and coaching to help sailors develop racing skills and gain a competitive edge.
Contrary to common misconceptions, sailing at the Shelley Sailing Club is an affordable sport. The club does not require nomination fees, and membership rates are reasonable, with a family membership costing approximately $530 per year, including $30 worth of canteen vouchers. The cost of boats varies depending on the class, but most boats at the club are valued at under $3000, with options available for even less. Members can freely seek advice at the club regarding boat purchasing and pricing.
Shelley Sailing Club warmly welcomes new members, and anyone interested in experiencing sailing on any of the available classes can visit the club on any Sunday between October and April at 1:00 pm to arrange a sailing session.
Throughout its history, Shelley Sailing Club has had the honour of having esteemed life members such as Roy Whitehead, Ian Jarvis, Rod McGregor, Don Emberson, Clive Griffiths, Norm Snell, Trevor Richardson, Warren Keating, Peter Agar, Trita Agar, David Pass, and Wendy Hobley.
Follow Shelley Sailing Club on social media platforms, including Facebook and Instagram, for more information about classes, contact details, club history, junior training programmes, membership forms, results, sailing season updates, the SSC committee, and directions to the club premises.