Australian Sailing Hall of Fame nominations open

2018 Australian Sailing Hall of Fame inductees © Sailing Hall of Fame

Australian Sailing and the Australian National Maritime Museum are excited to announce that nominations have opened today for the prestigious Australian Sailing Hall of Fame.

The Australian Sailing Hall of Fame, now entering its third year, is the only elite sailing institution of its kind. It was established to acknowledge and honour exceptional performance and contribution at the highest level by an individual or a team.

The Hall of Fame covers all disciplines of the sport, from athletes to coaches, designers or club officials – from the early nineteenth century years of organised competition to today.

Nominations are being sought across two categories – the sailor or athlete category; and the general category for those who have played a critical supporting or leadership role.

President of Australian Sailing, Matt Allen, said today "The Hall of Fame is a fantastic initiative to celebrate the rich and diverse history of our sport. It has become central in connecting generations of sailors and we're looking forward to recognising the many achievements of the women and men in our community again in 2019."

"In diversity there is beauty and strength. It makes us stronger, smarter, more innovative, and unites us all." said the Director of the Australian National Maritime Museum, Kevin Sumption on the announcement of the nominations opening today. "There are so many diverse stand-outs in the field of sailing, and we are calling on the community to nominate these examples of excellence to be recognised and celebrated."

To nominate someone who has made a vital contribution to sailing in Australia as an Innovator, Olympian, Paralympian, Team Member, Trailblazer, Visionary, or someone who has made a Lifetime Achievement, visit www.sailinghalloffame.org.au/nominate

Nominations will remain open until 5pm Thursday 16 May 2019.

The 2019 honourees will be announced at the prestigious Australian Sailing Annual Awards ceremony on 18 October 2019 at the Sofitel Hotel in Darling Harbour, Sydney.

The virtual Australian Sailing Hall of Fame can be viewed at www.sailinghalloffame.org.au. A travelling exhibition highlighting previous inductees has been visiting events and sailing clubs around the country for the last two years and has had more than 10,000 visitors since December 2017. To apply for this exhibition to tour your club, venue or event, please visit the website.

Please note that those nominated in 2017 and 2018 who have not been not inducted will have their nominations rolled over into the 2019 nominee pool for consideration by the Selection Panel.