A fire from a paddle shop at the club’s rear destroyed the Narrabeen Lakes Sailing Club’s facilities and equipment, including the Hawthorne learn-to-sail fleet, in November 2021, leaving the community sailing group to operate from temporary storage.
The Fire and Immediate Aftermath
The fire, which started on 27 November 2021, caused extensive damage to the club’s infrastructure. The destruction included the complete loss of their learn-to-sail boats, the committee boat, and many members’ sailing craft stored on the premises.
Due to asbestos in the debris, club members have been unable to access the site to salvage any remaining items. The club has relied on the generosity of other organisations to keep their programs running. The Open Skiff Association lent the club a trailer with ten boats, which allowed the Learn to Sail classes to continue. Whitworths donated eight new Opti boats to help rebuild the fleet.
Rebuilding and Council Plans
The Northern Beaches Council has taken responsibility for coordinating the rebuild. Council assessments have been conducted, and fencing and park toilets have been organised. The council is also working to provide on-site storage solutions.
The council intends to use insurance funds to cover the cost of rebuilding partially and is seeking grant opportunities to address any financial shortfalls. The council’s plan involves creating a facility with a community room and a café, which will be rented out. This vision differs from the sailing club’s desire for a simple, cost-effective clubhouse.
Council has advised the club that no funds are currently available to proceed with the building. However, the council’s website indicates that construction is expected to commence in late 2025 and take approximately 12 months, weather permitting.
Community Support and Club Activities
Despite the challenges, the Narrabeen Lakes Sailing Club has continued to operate. The club celebrated its 120th anniversary on 2 February 2025 with a regatta and a community gathering. The club has received support from various groups, including the Sail GP team, who provided access to VIP facilities and arranged auctioned items. Concord Ryde Sailing Club organised a fundraiser during their Sail GP event.
Dobroyd Aquatic Club and Lane Cove 12ft SSC shared their experiences with facility rebuilds. Port Hacking Open Sailing Club allowed a club member to participate in Sail GP youth sailing events. Federal MP for Mackellar, visited the site and is assisting with grant applications.
A local business has provided discounted food for club members. The club runs Learn to Sail classes on Sunday mornings, followed by coaching for experienced young sailors and afternoon races. The club will also host the 2025 Sabot Southern Zone NSW Championship in March.
Club History and Background
The Narrabeen Lakes Sailing Club has a long history, dating back to 1904 when brothers George and Thomas Sneesby began racing their skiffs on Narrabeen Lake. By 1924, they and boat shed owners Willis Douglass and Don Maclean officially formed the club.
The club experienced significant growth, particularly in the 1930s, when it had Sydney’s largest fleet of 16-footers. The club’s activities were interrupted by the World Wars and a drought. The club reached another peak in the 1970s, with nearly 100 boats racing regularly.
The club aims to provide a safe and supportive environment for sailors of all ages and abilities and operates on Sundays during the sailing season.
Published Date 17-March-2025
