2026 Skelcon Australian 16ft & 13ft Skiff Championships
Belmont 16s Sailing Club to Host the 2026 Skelcon Australian Skiff Championships
Lake Macquarie is set for a world-class sailing spectacle as Belmont 16s Sailing Club proudly announces it will host the 2026 Skelcon Australian 16ft & 13ft Skiff Championships.
In partnership with the Australian Skiff Sailing Association (ASSA), and with the support of Skelcon as official Naming Rights Sponsor, Belmont 16s Sailing Club will welcome Australia’s fastest 16ft and 13ft skiffs to the waters of Belmont Bay from 4–11 January 2026.
This week-long championship will see 72 crews competing in the 16ft class and 31 crews in the 13ft class, drawing hundreds of sailors, officials, and supporters to Lake Macquarie. It promises to be one of Australia’s premier sailing events, boosting tourism and putting the Hunter Region in the national spotlight. Notably, there has been a significant increase in female skippers and crew across both classes, highlighting the growing diversity and participation in the sport compared to previous national championships.
👉 Want the best seat in the house? Become a Belmont 16s Sailing Club member today and enjoy discounted food and beverage across our ground floor venues, plus exclusive access to our viewing decks overlooking the action. Join online here
A Championship of Elite Calibre
With Skelcon’s support and Belmont 16s Sailing Club’s newly upgraded sailing facilities, this event is set to be a festival of sailing, combining fierce competition on the water with a world-class spectator experience onshore.
“This championship represents the pinnacle of Australian skiff sailing and a return to the calibre of event we haven’t seen in some time. Our upgraded facilities make Belmont 16s Sailing Club the perfect home for this championship.”
— James Griffith, Commodore, Belmont 16s Sailing Club
Spectators will be treated not only to breathtaking racing but also to the buzz of the rigging area, where sailors prepare their high-performance skiffs before hitting the water. It’s the kind of atmosphere that only Belmont 16s Sailing Club can deliver.
👉 Don’t just watch from afar. Become a Belmont 16s Sailing Club member and enjoy it up close — from the rigging yard energy to our lakeside decks with the best viewing spots in Lake Macquarie. Join now
A Club with Over 100 Years of Sailing History
Established in 1922, Belmont 16s Sailing Club has been at the heart of skiff sailing for over a century. The Club is home to some of Australia’s most talented sailors and has made major investments in fleet growth, equipment, and facilities to support the future of the sport.
“Our vision behind recent facility upgrades was to future-proof sailing at Belmont 16s Sailing Club and ensure we could host major events of this calibre for decades to come. It’s about inspiring the next generation while reinforcing our position as a leader in competitive sailing.”
— Scott Williams, CEO, Belmont 16s Sailing Club
By joining as a member, you become part of this proud tradition — with access to racing, community, and year-round dining and entertainment benefits.
👉 Ready to be part of sailing history? Join Belmont 16s Sailing Club online today
About Skelcon
Skelcon, a Newcastle-based company redefining the construction industry, is the proud naming partner of the 2026 Championship. With their holistic approach to design, construction, and joinery, Skelcon shares Belmont 16s Sailing Club’s commitment to innovation and community.
“Skelcon is proud to be the naming partner of the 2026 Australian Skiff Championship. As a Newcastle-based company, we are excited to support local sporting events that bring people together and create opportunities for the next generation.”
— Joel Skelton, Director, Skelcon
Event Details
📍 Location: Belmont 16s Sailing Club, Lake Macquarie
📅 Date: 4–11 January 2026
Expect stunning waterfront views, high-speed racing, and the vibrant community atmosphere that only Belmont 16s Sailing Club can provide. Whether you’re a passionate sailor or a first-time spectator, this championship will be a highlight of Australia’s sailing calendar.
👉 Become a Belmont 16s Sailing Club member now to enjoy discounts on food and beverage throughout the ground floor, premium access to our lakeside decks, and the thrill of being part of one of Australia’s most exciting sailing events. Join today
We would also like to thank our valued minor and race day sponsors:
Allen, CJR Concrete Construction, Pirtek, Air Extreme, AJ McDonall Electrical, and Frontline Musto. Your support plays an important role in making this championship possible.
For media enquiries, please contact:
Jess Graham
Marketing & Communications, Belmont 16s Sailing Club
jgraham@16s.com.au | ☎ (02) 4945 0888
