2025–2026 Yacht Racing Season – Nominations and Safety Information

Get Ready for the Season

It’s that time of year again when everyone is preparing for the upcoming sailing season.
All yacht owners, skippers, and crew are reminded to submit nominations for the 2025–2026 yacht racing season.

Along with your nomination form, please provide:

• A copy of your yacht’s current Racing Insurance

• A completed and signed Special Regulations Equipment Form for your chosen category

Nomination Form

• Yacht Nomination Form

Sailing Instructions

• PRSC 117th Season 2025-2026 Sailing Instructions Full Document

Racing Rules of Sailing

Please ensure you’re familiar with the Racing Rules of Sailing, including recent updates effective from 1 January 2025.

• Racing Rules of Sailing – Australian Sailing Resources

• Printable Version (PDF)

It’s recommended to keep a copy (printed or electronic) on board while racing.

Special Regulations and Audit Forms

• Special Regulations – Australian Sailing Resources

• Part 1 – Racing Boats (PDF)

• Part 2 – Off the Beach Boats and Small Keelboats (PDF)

Equipment Audit Forms

• Equipment Auditing Forms – Australian Sailing

• AS Cat 6 Audit Form

• AS Cat 7 Audit Form

• Off the Beach & Small Keelboats Audit Form

• Medical Kit Audit Form (New Type – Inshore)

Safety Equipment Preparation

• Safety Equipment Audit Preparation Handout (PDF)

Key Safety Regulation Updates

Lifejackets and Marine Radios

There have been updates to the requirements for lifejackets and marine radio operators (Category 6).
Ensure you are using compliant equipment and servicing lifejackets according to the manufacturer’s schedule.
A link to the Inflatable Life Jacket Inspection Form is available on the Club Website.

EPIRBs

Please confirm your EPIRB registration is current with the Australian Maritime and Safety Authority.

Marine Radio Licensing

Clause 3.25.8 Licensed Operators:
All marine radio users must hold an appropriate certificate of proficiency or statement of attainment (ACMA-recognised).
This applies to all Category 6 races at the club.

Equipment & Boat Requirements

Sail Numbers

Clause 4.01:
Sail numbers must comply with RRS 77 and Appendix G.
Unless a class number is registered, a PRSC sail number must be allocated. Other club numbers are not permitted unless registered with that club.

Anchors

Clause 4.05:

• Anchors and ground tackle must be carried as per Tables 1–3.

• The primary anchor must be assembled and attached.

• Ensure the bitter end of the warp can be secured to a strong point before deployment.

First Aid Kits

The First Aid Kit requirements have undergone a major overhaul.

• Old contents remain valid until 1 December 2028.

• A new modular system is now in place and encouraged for early adoption.

• Standard onboard items (not in kits) include:

  • Sunscreen

  • Insect repellent

  • Duct tape

  • Electrical tape

  • Batten material (for splints)

Lifelines

Clause 3.12.6:
Synthetic rope lanyards may be used to close gaps (≤100 mm) and must be replaced annually.

Lifejackets

Clause 5.01.5:
Inflatable lifejackets must be checked and serviced at intervals prescribed by the manufacturer.
Evidence of service is required at audit.
Competent self-servicing is acceptable.

Flare Requirements and 400m Rule

Please note recent changes to flare regulations:

• Parachute flares are being phased out as of 1 September 2026.

• Avoid purchasing “Offshore Kits” unless entering Category 1 or 2 races or you wish to carry parachute flares additionally.

• These updates are reflected in the latest Australian Sailing Special Regulations.

Further, with the new 400-metre boundary, any boat entering King George Sound must carry Flares or EVDS in accordance with Department of Transport requirements.
The previous 1-nautical-mile rule no longer applies.

Courses

• Division 1
• Division 2 (updated)
• Division 3
• Flying Fifteen (updated)