“Keelboat Introduction to Sailing Savvy”

(KISS) program is back for its third year in 2024.

Buoyed by positive feedback from our 52 graduates over the last two years, preparation for the program is well underway with roll out from 15 May through to 24 August, providing accessible training during the winter months.

The KISS program initiated by QCYC Immediate Past Commodore and ORCV Member Lee Renfree, was created by women for women, to provide an introductory level of information and experience through a series of social, learning and practical activities for female sailors.

Here's how Jo Bone, who lived in Warrnambool described her experience with the 2023 program:

 “Well…what an amazing adventure I have just had!
I would highly recommend this program to any woman who has either sailed before or is looking to begin her sailing adventures. For too long men have dominated the sport, and now thanks to Commodore Lee Renfree and her KISS program, it is time for us girls to shine! 
Thank you Lee for an amazing sailing adventure, I will always be thinking of you when I am sitting on my own yacht, living my dream!!!”

With KISS, everyone is welcome. Keeness and commitment are the prerequisites for the program, no matter the experience and is open to those 18+ years.  We will lead you to new horizons.

Why KISS ?

To empower women to transition from ‘passengers’ to confident active ‘participants’.

And how to empower?

• By encouraging women to “Face Your Fears” and achieve confidence and skills through power of knowledge and hands-on experience
• Provide opportunity for personal growth, build camaraderie through teamwork
• Encourage stepping up to lead roles.

So if you are a female sailor wanting to take the opportunity to set your own course, come and join us.

KISS 2024 Program Sessions 

Program Launch

The KISS 2024 Program Launch kicks off on 15 May 2024, with a panel discussion on “Facing Your Fears” featuring our three KISS Rally Trophy winners from the class of 2023.

You will be assigned to a boat team of 3-4 KISS sister sailors, your boat owner and mentor, with the first task to appoint a Boat Team Manager and the team to design your own on-water training schedule to fit.

Skills Training

For the practical experiences, you will undertake a safety audit on your assigned boat and learn to use the equipment safely and effectively.

The single-day hands-on workshop run by the ORCV provides “live” VHF radio training, Man Overboard training and Safe Transport Victoria (STV) Maritime will also attend and present a flare demonstration and how to self-service your own inflatable life jackets.

Additional Skills Training

is also encouraged outside of the KISS content and we can recommend training providers for these courses -

Recreational Boat Licence and VHF Radio Licence.

Small keelboat training - helm, competent crew, etc provided by Discover Sailing Centres at clubs or private providers.

Please note this additional training is not included in the KISS program fee.

KISS Rally

The program concludes with a real journey, with you and your boat team planning and stepping up to roles of helmsperson, navigator and radio operator for the KISS Rally, a 26 nm passage from Brighton to Queenscliff, with a celebration dinner and overnight stay at Sand Island, the home of the iconic Queenscliff Cruising Yacht Club.

Register for KISS 2024

We look forward to having you aboard!

For further information, please email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

KISS - supported by the ORCV and QCYC.