In something of a coincidence, the publishing of the invitation to the South African event in December has prompted me to get organised and notify 505 sailors worldwide that the Australian Championship are being held in the first week of January, 2010. An invitation is extended to any 505 sailor interested in participating in the regatta. If you want to escape the Northern winter and get a real fix of sailing downunder, why not visit South Africa first and then travel over to Australia and do our Nationals? Life is short - don't let time and money get in the way.

If you are interested in travelling to Australia, full details of the regatta can be found on the event website at www.int505nationals.com. It will be held on Victoria's Mornington Peninsula, 1 hour south of Melbourne on Port Phillip Bay. The "Bay" is acknowledged as one of the finest stretches of water for sailing championships and the Peninsula is a holiday mecca. Lots of natural attractions and a magnificent part of Australia to visit.

Unless you are willing to ship your boat, you will need a charter boat and as event organisers, we would do our best to match you with a suitable boat. You can register your interest in chartering a boat on the forum here

There will also potentially be some free, farmstay accommodation available for overseas competitors made available on a "first come" basis. If you are interested in coming to McCrae next January, contact me directly to discuss your participation.