Carcoar Dam Sailing Club

2012 Regatta

2012-01-12T07:30:00.000+11:00

Carcoar Dam Sailing Club - Annual Regatta

Our 2011-2012 Regatta will be held over the weekend of 25-26 February 2012, at Carcoar Dam Sailing Club.

Our first 'Annual' regatta in over seven years! The water is finally back again, with levels over 85% capacity out at Carcoar - whoo hoo!

Accommodation
can be found in the nearby townships of Blayney, Carcoar and Neville.

Contact the Blayney Tourist & Community Information Centre on (02) 6368 3534
Blayney Tourist Information
Blayney Heritage Country
Carcoar Village
Neville

Of course, you can also freely camp-out by our Clubhouse. We have quiet shady family-friendly sites, clean toilets and hot showers.

Setting sail for Carcoar in 2011 - Blayney Chronicle

2011-11-04T19:01:00.003+11:00

Setting sail for Carcoar

With the water level now at more than 80 per-cent, a full Carcoar Dam Sailing Club program has returned to Carcoar Dam for the first time in five years. Carcoar Dam Sailing Club Commodore, Don MacLennan, said the end of drought conditions would mean a new beginning for the 36 year old club.

"Low dam levels have restricted club activities for five years, but with the water level now the best in a decade, club members have been eager to resume full club activities," he said.

"We kicked off the season last weekend and will continue throughout the warmer months with regular club racing events and weekly social sailing. I urge previous members whose interest dropped with the waterline to bring their boats and rediscover the joy of sailing by joining us on the water at Carcoar dam.

"I also invite anybody with sailing experience to bring your boat along and discover why club members are so passionate about sailing at Carcoar.

"If you are interested in learning more about sailing, I encourage you to contact the club or visit after 11am on Sundays and see why we love this fascinating and challenging sport.

"You will get to see the thrill of sailing, gain an understanding of some of the basics and hopefully it will ignite your interest in taking to the water."

Mr MacLennan said club members have been busily preparing for the upcoming sailing season throughout winter.

"Improvements to the club facilities and grounds have been undertaken over the past few months and the club's rescue boat has been overhauled. We are now ready for what looks like being the best sailing conditions in a decade and we encourage others to join us and share the exhilaration of sailing."

The Carcoar Dam Sailing Club meets on Sundays at 11am at the dam.

HARD AT WORK: Sailing Club enthusiasts Mark Fletcher and Don MacLennan constructing a new boat storage area.

SUPERB SAILING: Mark Fletcher pushing his Laser to the limit on Carcoar Dam.

(Article source)

First Race of our 2011-2012 Season

2011-10-21T11:18:00.002+11:00

Last weekend was the second sailing Sunday of the 2011/12 season, importantly it was the first day we had boats in the water albeit with a few rusty sailors (bones more so than brains for most), it was a good wind with white caps most of the day.

This week (23 October) is the first race day, so be sure to come along, it should be very enlightening as most people haven’t raced for a very long time (at least that’s my excuse if the 10- and 12-yo’s get past me). Mark has volunteered to be Duty Officer (I’m sure he wants to suss out the competitors tactics prior to more serious racing later in the season).

Ash has decided the competition is tougher in Canberra and will head off there for the weekend - we wish you well Ash!

There's PLENTY of great sailable water to explore on Carcoar Dam now - the current water level is at 83%!!!

I note we have a number of people on our email list I haven’t met, if you’d like to continue receiving CDSC email please let us know - thanks.

Regards

Don MacLennan (Commodore)

(per Webmaster)

About Us

2011-10-10T07:34:00.000+11:00

Welcome to Carcoar Dam Sailing Club

Carcoar Dam, via Blayney, New South Wales, Australia.

We enjoy and promote sailing every Sunday during the warmer months, where both racing and social sailing is catered for in monohulls and catamarans.

Visitors and new members are always most welcome.

Carcoar Dam Sailing Club Inc. (CDSC) is a small, friendly, family club offering racing and social cruising each Sunday during the warmer months. We have four club dinghies available for visitors, a rescue boat and a well equipped spacious clubhouse with a gas kitchen, hot showers, clean toilets and BBQ's. The club has wonderful views of the dam and is surrounded by native trees, making an ideal camping ground for visiting sailors and their families.

CDSC has operated for almost 38 years. It is one of the only sailing clubs managing to survive in the Central West, existing on the generosity of its members and many donations of both resources, skills and time.

After almost 10 years of drought conditions across eastern Australia, the water is now BACK at Carcoar Dam. With water levels at 80% plus (as at October 2011), there is PLENTY of good sailable water to explore.

Take a few moments to browse through the various menus on the right, to explore the past, present and future activities and people who make up CDSC. And please take a moment to contact us with any of your questions - thanks.

These webpages have been re-developed by Mal Kiely, October 2011
Webpages resurrected by Mal Kiely, October 2006
Original Webpage design : Peter Durkin, November 2004

Photo Galleries - Sailability Central West

2011-10-10T06:46:00.005+11:00

Sailability Photo Galleries

December 2007 - Sailability
November-December 2007 - Sailability
October 2007 - Sailability
September-October 2007 - Boatshed extension & Construction

Access State Championships - Belmont NSW, 15-16 March 2007
February 2007 - Ben Chifley Dam
17 December 2006 - Sailability & AGM
29 October 2006 - Official launch of Access 303 "Pink Lady"

2004-2007 - Sailability & Medal Presentations

Sailability Construction Projects - 2004-2005

Social Sailing - March 2007

2011-10-09T12:00:00.011+11:00

Social Sailing - March 2007
Held at Ben Chifley Dam, as there was not enough water to safely sail on out at Carcoar Dam.

Timothy and Luke take the Mirror "Red Hot Chilli Pepper" out for a spin, on 11 March 2007.

"Red Hot Chilli Pepper" comes ashore with Timothy and Luke.

It's a beautiful large body of water out at Chifley Dam.

Luke's enthusiasm for sailing has inspired us all. Thanks Luke!

Timothy and Luke enjoying the moment.

Timothy Hone took out his Laser "Plane Sailing" at Chifley Dam that day as well.
Mark Fletcher later went for a sail with Luke in the Mirror, while Marcia and Mal relaxed under the shade enjoying the day.

Ian Johnston caught! heh heh
Ian and Ash Jonstone bought their Maricat "Nightrider" out to Chifley Dam on Sunday 18th March 2007, and Ash later went for a sail.

Mal Kiely joined him aboard his Laser "Wyreema II".

Water!!!

2011-10-09T10:00:00.000+11:00

These photos were taken mid-week in early October 2011... yes, it does rain at Carcoar occasionally... plus the current water-level is sitting at a glorious 82% capacity! The dam is the fullest its' been since c. 2001!!!

Looking out across the water at the northern end of the boatshed... just last year, the walk to the edge of the water was about 200 meters from the top of that concrete ramp!!! Now it's all underwater!

By the way... that's the first time the water has been anywhere near that little temporary boatramp since 2001!!! (That was some leftover concrete from building the Sailability boatshed c.2001, and was used as a quick fix to a then-lowering waterline. Little did we all know that the water level would eventually drop to just 4% in 2010!!!)

Access State Championships - March 2007

2011-10-09T09:37:00.021+11:00

Access State Championships Belmont NSW, 15-16 March 2007

Sailability Central West (NSW)
SAILABILITY CONTESTS THE 2007 STATE CHAMPIONSHIPS

Six contestants from Sailability Central west recently competed in the 2007 Access Dinghy State Championships held at the Belmont 16 Footer Sailing Club on Lake Macquarie.

Five races took place over two days with fresh NW winds and sunny conditions. Entrants from all over the State hotly contested the Access 303 doubles division with challenging starts, exciting upwind legs and flying finishes.

Garry Starr, sailing ‘Pink Lady’, came a prestigious second overall, with the others commendably placed in the top ten. Scott Vandenbergh (aged 18) sailing ‘Independence’, gained the Central West Encouragement Medallion, and promises to be a keen contender for future events.

(Timothy Hone)

The six Sailability Central West sailors at the end of the regatta.

Graham from Sailability NSW (dark shirt) presents Garry Starr (left) with his second-overall trophy in the 2-Up 303 Division. Well done, Garry!
From left: Garry Starr, Graham (Sailability NSW), Graham Hamilton (blue shirt), Timothy Hone, Mal Kiely, Scott Vandenbergh (in chair) and Steve Vandenbergh.

(Pic courtesy of Timothy Hone)

Central Wests' Access 303's 442 (blue), "Independence" (green) and "Pink Lady" early Friday morning at Belmont 16ft Skiff Club

Scott and Steve Vandenbergh ready to race... but they had to wait a little while...

Access dinghies everywhere along the shore at Belmont.
(Pic courtesy of Glen from Chipping Norton Sailability)

Morning traffic jam of Access dinghies at the wharf and pontoon at Belmont
(Pic courtesy of Timothy Hone)

Steve Vandenbergh (left) and Graham Hamilton in the blue 303 out on the water at Belmont.
(Pic courtesy of Timothy Hone)

The view from aboard the "Pink Lady" out on the water at Belmont
(Pic courtesy of Timothy Hone)

In the blue Access 303 are Graham Hamilton (front) and Steve Vandenbergh. Scotty and Mal are in the green "Independence" just behind them.
(Pic courtesy of Timothy Hone)

There was lots of close racing in the 2-up 303 Division.
(Pic courtesy of Glen from Chipping Norton Sailability)

Scotty Vandenbergh sailing the Access 303 "Independence"
(Pic courtesy of Glen from Chipping Norton Sailability)

Scotty and Mal racing the green "Independence" on the waters off Belmont.
(Pic courtesy of Glen from Chipping Norton Sailability)

A fast run to the bottom mark... Garry Starr and Timothy Hone in the "Pink Lady" (second-left), and Steve Vandenbergh and Graham Hamilton aboard the blue 303.
(Pic courtesy of Glen from Chipping Norton Sailability)

Scotty Vandenbergh and Mal Kiely in the green "Independence" not far behind Graham and Steve in the blue boat (second-right) at the bottom mark.
(Pic courtesy of Glen from Chipping Norton Sailability)

Steve and Graham racing the blue Access 303 hard on the waters off Belmont.
(Pic courtesy of Glen from Chipping Norton Sailability)

Scotty and Mal prepare for a start in the green "Independence". The pink boat on the left is an Access 'Liberty'. That's Belmont 16ft Skiff Club in the background.
(Pic courtesy of Glen from Chipping Norton Sailability)

Scotty Vandenbergh and Mal Kiely (yellow hat) cross the finishing line in one of their races.
(Pic courtesy of Timothy Hone)

Scotty and Mal aboard "Independence" (right) had a good tussle in each race with the boys from Chipping Norton (left). Scotty pushed us ahead here at a close finish by about half a boat-length! Well sailed, Scotty!
(Pic courtesy of Timothy Hone)

Bernie's Birthday Bash - 2007

2011-10-09T09:28:00.008+11:00

Bernie's Birthday Bash, Oberon Dam 31st March - 1st April 2007

Ash Jonhston's Maricat "Nightrider"
(Pics courtesy of Ash Johnston)

John Ford's Nacra "Sonic Boom"

Oberon gave us some LIGHT conditions on both days! And the MUD on the shoreline can be clearly seen...

(Following pics: Mal Kiely)

Mal's lone Laser amidst all those cats!

Wallerawang Regatta, 18-19 November 2006

2011-10-09T09:06:00.026+11:00

Wallerawang Regatta, 18-19 November 2006
CDSC was well represented at the 2006 Wallerawang Regatta
Lake Wallace, Wallerawang, NSW

Nacra 5.8 cats on the beach, awaiting the Saturday morning fog to lift.

Boats on the beach on Saturday morning, before the Invitation Race.
Hobie Cats, Lasers, Solos, MG's, A Class and Nacra 5.8's . . .

Saturday morning on the beach, in front of the Wang Clubhouse.

Mark (right) prepares his CDSC Laser "Crusher" before the Saturday Invitation Race.

Marcia (left) registering for the Regatta, inside Wang's charming sandstone Clubhouse.

Some of the 'Carcoar Contingent' at the Wang Regatta.
Marcia Lac's Laser "Magic" (141943), Mal Kiely's Solo "Wyreema" (2686), and Mark Fletcher's Laser "Crusher" (152864).

CDSC's Marcia's "Magic" (141943), Mark's "Crusher" (152864), and Mal's "Wyreema" (2686).

While Folkert rigs the Laser "Mungo Brush", Sara, Talia and Louise Janssen, Mark Fletcher and Marcia Lac relax prior to Saturday mornings' Invitation Race.

The new boat stickers look amazing! Thanx Mark!

The new CDSC sticker looks brilliant! Mal's Solo back at Carcoar . . . time to check those water-filling cracks along the port chine . . .

The Janssen family relaxing over lunch on the Saturday.

Marcia relaxes in the late afternoon shade, after a good days' sailing on the Saturday.

Mark, Sara and Louise relaxing after Saturday's sailing.

Mark and Marcia relaxing at the Wallerawang Bowling Club before Saturday nights' dinner.

Ian and Ash Johnson at Wallerawang Bowling Club on the Saturday night. And yes... Ash is as sunburnt as he looks!

Mal and Marcia looking forward to their meal at the Wallerawang Bowling Club. Thanx to Mark for the pic.

From right to left: Mark, Tom and John Ford.

Sunrise over Lake Wallace, Sunday morning.

Marcia's Laser "Magic" and "Mungo Brush" sailed by Folkert, early Sunday morning.

The Carcoar Monos enjoying the Sunday morning sunshine.
Mal's Solo (in blue cover), Marcia's Laser ("Magic"), Folkert's "Mungo Brush", and Mark's "Crusher".

Successful Regatta for CDSC.
Top: Folkert - 1st Place Invitation Race
Right: Marcia - 3rd Place Heat 1
Middle: Marcia - 3rd Place Heat 3
Bottom: Mal - 1st Place, Mono Division Invitation Race
Left: Folkert - 1st Place, Heat 1

Carcoar Sailing Club - Boats

2011-10-09T08:47:00.021+11:00

Carcoar Dam Sailing Club - Boats
Some of the different classes of boats who've been sailing with us during the 2006-07 sailing season.

Dick Benson's Maricat 4.3, "Hazard"
Maricat
Length: 14 ft (4.2m)
Beam: 7 ft 6 ½ in (2.3m)
Weight: (90kg) (fully rigged)
Sail area: 110 sq ft (11 sq m)

Ian & Ashley Johnson's Maricat 4.3 "Nightrider"

Jim Nutley's Maricat "Jarbs", 10 December 2006.

Greg Unwin's Laser, "Radar"
Laser
Olympic Class
Number of crew 1
LWL 3810 mm 12 ft 6in
LOA 4064 mm 13 ft 10in
Beam 1422 mm 4 ft 7in
Draft 787 mm 2 ft 7in
Hull weight (with fittings) 59 kg 130 lb
Sail Area of total of Main Sail 7.06 m² 75sq.ft

Geoff Body's yellow Laser, "Storm"

The Club's Laser "Rocket Donor", kindly donated at the end of last season - and getting some good use already. Folkert Janssen (left).

Mark Fletcher's Laser, "Crusher"

Marcia Lac's Laser, "Thin Red Line", re-named "Magic" for the 2006 Wallerawang Regatta.

Folkert Janssen sails the Laser "Mungo Brush" (No. 121134)

Dave Tory launched his new Laser at CDSC on 14 January 2007.

Mal Kiely's Laser #82666, "Wyreema II"

Timothy Hone's Laser, "Plane Sailing", 5th November 2006

Stuart Riles' Mirror, "Toffee Apple", 5th November 2006
Mirror
Number of crew 2
LOA 3300 mm (10 ft 10 in)
Beam 1390 mm (4 ft 7 in)
Draft 700 mm (28 in)
Hull weight (with fittings) 61 kg (135 lb)
Sail area of Jib 1.9 m² (20 ft²)
Sail area of Main 4.6 m² (49 ft²)
Sail area of Spinnaker 4.4 m² (47 ft²)

Another Club boat, a Topper, kindly donated, and launched 22 October 2006.
Topper
Number of crew 1
LOA 3400mm 11ft 1in
Beam 1200mm 3ft 11in
Hull weight (with fittings) 43kg 94lb
Sail Area of total of Main 5.2m² 56ft²

Mal Kiely's Solo, "Wyreema"
Solo
Number of crew 1
LOA 3.78 m 12ft 5in
Beam 1.55 m 5ft 3in
Hull weight (with fittings) 70 Kg 154 lb
Sail Area of Main 8.36m² 90ft²

One of Sailability's fleet of Access 2.3 dinghys, "Daybreak"
Access 2.3
Length 2.3 m 7' 6"
Beam 1.25 m 4'1"
Draft 0.75 m 2' 6"
Weight 52 kg (Keel is + 20 kg) 114 lbs (Keel is + 44 lbs)
Sail Plan Cat Rig
Sail Area 3.8 sq m (Reefs to 0.5 sq.mtr) 42 sq ft (Reefs to 5.4 sq ft)
Mast Unstayed 4.2m 13'9"
Seating Wide hammock seat suitable for 2 children, an adult and a child or 2 small to medium sized adults.
Steering Manual joystick
Capacity Solo sailor = 100 kg Tandem sailors = 120 kg

- Hull has positive buoyancy & heavily rockered for easy maneuverability.
- Strong construction with solid bonded hull to deck joins.
- With the seat keeping the helms weight low plus weighted centreboard type keel, the boat is virtually uncapsizable.
- Reefed and unreefed by a single hauling line.
- Mainsail controlled by a manual mainsheet.
- High boom is kept well away from helms head.
- The boat, mast and boom fit neatly and easily onto standard car roof bars.
- No hiking out necessary.
- Available in 10 different colours with a coloured flash on the sail for easily distinguishable fleet sailing, which is very useful for safety monitoring and video/photo feedback.
- So simple and stable almost anyone can use these boats.
- Extremely comfortable, nimble and above all great fun.
* NOTE: The stability of an Access Dinghy relies on the body weight of a sailor being kept low in the boat, thereby lowering the center of gravity. The maximum combined weight of two sailors in a 2.3 wide is 120 kg / 275 lbs. The extra weight is permissable as the centre of gravity of two sailors is presumed to be lower than a single sailor of the same combined weight. It is therefore recommended that sailors weighing over the maximum weights, sail the larger Access 303.

The Access 303 "Pink Lady" will see some action this season as well. Here sailed by Garry Starr (dark hat).
Access 303
Length 3.03 m 10 ft
Beam 1.35 m 4 ft
Draft 1 m 3' 6"
Weight 62 kg (Keel is + 30 kg) 136 lbs (Keel is + 66 lbs)
Sail Plan Mainsail & free standing, self tacking Jib
Sail Area Total area - 5.8 sq m 62 sq ft
Main-4.4sq m (Reefable to 0.5 ) Jib - 1.4 sq m (full roller reefing)
Main - 51.5 sq ft (Reefable to 5.4) Jib - 10.5 sq ft (full roller reefing)
Mast Main - Unstayed 4.75 m Jib - Unstayed 2.85 m
Seating Wide hammock seat
Steering Manual joystick
Capacity 160 kg 350 lbs (Combined weight of 1 or 2 sailors)

- Hull has positive buoyancy.
- Strong construction with solid bonded hull to deck joins.
- With the seat keeping the helms weight low plus weighted centreboard type keel, the boat is virtually uncapsizable.
- Mainsail and Jib are reefed and unreefed by single hauling lines.
- The boat, mast and booms fit neatly and easily onto standard car roof bars.
- No hiking out necessary.
- Available in 10 different colours with a coloured flash on the sail for easily distinguishable fleet sailing, which is very useful for safety monitoring and video/photo feedback.
- So simple and stable almost anyone can use these boats.
- Extremely comfortable, nimble and above all great fun.

Timothy Hone has his own Laser (an an ex-Corsair and Solo sailor as well!), but on this day he had a nice relaxing sail in the Access 303 "Independence" instead. 22 October 2006

Atlanta and Sydney Paralympian Peter Worsley's (as yet unnamed) Access 303 Servo, with George Hone (pictured) helping rig her. 5th November 2006

Access Dinghies 2.3 "Free Spirit" and 303 "Independence", 26 February 2005
(Picture courtesy of Garry Starr)

Camping & Sunsets at Carcoar Dam - 2006/2007

2011-10-09T08:33:00.008+11:00

Camping & Sunsets at Carcoar Dam - 2006/2007

Camping next to the boatshed one Saturday night in November 2006.

Sunset over Carcoar Dam seen from the Clubhouse, Saturday 13th January 2007

Sunset over Carcoar Dam. November 2006

Clubhouse, Boatshed, Surrounds, Dam & 360º Panoramic Views - 2005/06 - Part 3

2011-10-09T06:08:00.036+11:00

Clubhouse, Boatshed, Surrounds, Dam & 360º Panoramic Views - 2005/06
(Photos: Mal Kiely)
Part 3 of 3
~ The peace and quiet here is physically refreshing ~

Carcoar Dam Panorama No. 1 (1 of 4)
Sailability Boatshed seen from where the old shelters stood, in front of the Clubhouse.

Carcoar Dam Panorama No. 1. (2 of 4)
Looking left from the last photo. The Kinross rowing pontoon can be seen on the foreshore.
All the land in the foreground should all be underwater...

Carcoar Dam Panorama No. 1. (3 of 4)
Looking left from the previous photo. The land in the foreground should all be underwater...

Carcoar Dam Panorama No. 1. (4 of 4)
Looking left from the last photo. The land in the foreground should all be underwater...
... and yes, that's a fly on the camera lens! Part of the joys of an Aussie summer!

Carcoar Dam Sailing Club - Panorama No. 2,
taken from the old fence "hitching post" on the high-water-line near the old shade shelters, at the bottom of the slope at the front of the Clubhouse. Looking across to the Boatshed. (1 of 12)

Panorama No. 2. (2 of 12) - Looking to the right of the previous picture.

Panorama No. 2. (3 of 12) - Looking to the right of the previous picture.

Panorama No. 2. (4 of 12) - Looking to the right of the previous picture, upto the front of the Clubhouse.

Panorama No. 2. (5 of 12) - Looking to the right of the previous picture. Kinross' rowing shed can just be seen through the trees.

Panorama No. 2. (6 of 12) - Looking to the right of the previous picture. View across to the front gate.

Panorama No. 2. (7 of 12) - Looking to the right of the previous picture. The Wind Turbines can be seen on the hilltops.

Panorama No. 2. (8 of 12) - Looking to the right of the previous picture.

Panorama No. 2. (9 of 12) - Looking to the right of the previous picture. All this land in the foreground is now underwater (in October 2011).

Panorama No. 2. (10 of 12) - Looking to the right of the previous picture. Looking across the main sailing basin on Carcoar Dam, 2006. All the land from the bottom of the picture to the waters' edge should be underwater!

Panorama No. 2. (11 of 12) - Looking to the right of the previous picture.

Panorama No. 2. (12 of 12) - Looking to the right of the previous picture. And we've come 360-degrees all the way back to the Boatshed.

Carcoar Dam Sailing Club - Panorama No. 3. (1 of 11)
A 360-degree of the Sailing Club, dam and surrounds, standing at the flagstaff in front of the Boatshed. Looking up to the Clubhouse.

Panorama No. 3. (2 of 11) - Looking to the right of the previous picture.

Panorama No. 3. (3 of 11) - Looking to the right of the previous picture.

Panorama No. 3. (4 of 11) - Looking to the right of the previous picture. Some more Wind Turbines can just be seen on the horizon. The Dam wall is in this direction.

Panorama No. 3. (5 of 11) - Looking to the right of the previous picture. The water is almost lapping at the foot of the flagstaff here now (October 2011)!!!

Panorama No. 3. (6 of 11)
Looking to the right of the previous picture. And yes... all the land in the foreground down to the water's edge is now underwater (as at October 2011)!!!

Panorama No. 3. (7 of 11) - Looking to the right of the previous picture. Now the dam is almost full again, you can launch your boats from this spot. You can see the track leading down to the waters' edge in the centre-middle-distance (2006).

Panorama No. 3. (8 of 11) - Looking to the right of the previous picture. The Sailability Boatshed seen from the flagstaff.

Panorama No. 3. (9 of 11) - Looking to the right of the previous picture. That's the shadow of the flagstaff.

Panorama No. 3. (10 of 11) - Looking to the right of the previous picture, up towards the Clubhouse (top-right).

Panorama No. 3. (11 of 11) - Looking to the right of the previous picture. And we're back to where we started. A 360-degree view from the flagstaff.

Carcoar Dam Sailing Club, from the air, winter 2005.
1 - Clubhouse 2 - Boatshed 3 - Pontoon
This gives a good indication of how low the water levels have been. When this was taken, it was at less than 18% capacity!
According to this, the Sailing Club location is 2,809 feet (856 meters) above sea level. NB. These following images were all taken via satellite! (Image courtesy GoogleEarth)

Carcoar Dam, winter 2005
1 - Dam Wall 2 - Wind Turbines 3 - Sailing Club
Blayney township is off to the top-right. (Image courtesy GoogleEarth)

Carcoar Dam Sailing Club, winter 2005.
1 - Boatshed 2 - Pontoon. The Belubula River is off to the top-right, the dam wall to the bottom-left. (Image courtesy GoogleEarth)

Carcoar Dam Sailing Club, winter 2005 (NB. A slightly 3D digitally-altered orientation)
1 - Boatshed 2 - Pontoon 3 - Public Boatramp and Camping Area
LOW water levels!!! (Image courtesy GoogleEarth)

Carcoar Dam Sailing Club from the air, winter 2005.
1 - Sailing Club buildings 2 - Pontoon 3 - Carcoar Dam Rd
(The front gate is to the right of 1). (Image courtesy GoogleEarth)

Carcoar Dam Sailing Club, winter 2005.
1 - Clubhouse 2 - Pontoon
Considering these photos are taken from outer space via a satellite, the clarity is astounding! (Image courtesy GoogleEarth)

More Clubhouse, Boatshed, Surrounds, Dam & 360º Panoramic Views photos:
Go to Page 1 - Go to Page 2

Clubhouse, Boatshed, Surrounds, Dam & 360º Panoramic Views - 2005/06 - Part 2

2011-10-09T05:31:00.042+11:00

Clubhouse, Boatshed, Surrounds, Dam & Some 360º Panoramic Views - 2005/06
Photos: Mal Kiely
Page 2 of 3

View from the Clubhouse window across to the dam. October 2006.

This small grove of trees opposite the Clubhouse have really picked up over the last few years. There's been plenty of trees planted over the years to provide some very picturesque, shady camping areas. October 2006

Some of the catamarans parked between the Clubhouse and boatshed, awaiting the return of the water... October 2006

Remains of the old brick BBQ, at the site of the old shelters, first built c.1976. On the grass slope at the front of the Clubhouse.

Looking back up the short slope to the Clubhouse, from where the original shelters stood. The remains of the old brick BBQ are in the foreground.

Looking back down the hill from in front of the Amenities block towards the Boatshed, October 2006

Sailability Central West's Boatshed, June 2006 Built on the site of the original boatshed.
Materials and labour for the sheds' construction kindly donated.

Sailability Boatshed, with the Club Laser awaiting a sail, October 2006

Sailability Boatshed, Clubhouse side. David getting the Club Laser ready for a days' sail, October 2006

A glimpse inside the Boatshed on a sailing day, October 2006 - before the concrete floor went in (c.2008).

Eastern side of the Boatshed, where some further boat storage is planned. October 2006

North side of the Boatshed, with the top of the Flagstaff peeping out over the top of the roof, and the Wind Turbines on the ridge in the background. October 2006

Part of the foundations from the original boatshed.
"Hank, Bob, Fred, Chris. 22 - 7 - 1979"

Late afternoon shadows cast their light upon the track leading down to the water's edge, at the rear of the boatshed.

June 2006: Looking back upland from the sailing clubhouse and boatshed... with some friendly cows - and it was sooooooo dry then! Most of the land in the foreground upto the cows should have been underwater...
Compared to this shot (below), taken in a similar location (behind the boatshed), in October 2011, when the water level was at 80%!!! (Thanks for your approval, Timothy! hahaha!)

Carcoar Dam, June 2006. Midwinter on a still, cloudless day.
This basin, and the one behind it, are the ones we normally do most of our sailing on. The dam wall is about 2 km's away to the far left.
The water level was sadly at about 20% capacity here.
5 years of drought tend to do that to water levels.

The damside 'beach' rigging area, October 2006. The long strips of rubber matting assist wheelchair access to the pontoon. The Boatshed is directly behind the top of the hill.

Timothy Hone in one of the Club's motor rescue boats. The temporary boat ramp can be seen snaking up the slope behind him, as can some of the wind turbines on the horizon. October 2006.

The Sailability pontoon and rescue boat at the beach rigging area. The dam was at only 20% capacity in October 2006.

The pontoon at the rigging beach area. The rescue boat at the ready, as is the Sailability harness (at end of pontoon). Access 2.3 "Daybreak" at right. October 2006

THIS is what it looks like when the dam is FULL! (October 1998, John Ford in foreground). That's the original boatshed where the current boatshed now stands. Compare this view to the next photo...

Looking in the same direction as the previous photo. The back of the boatshed, October 2006. No water to be seen anywhere! (Dam level was at only 20% here). Those two trees had water lapping against them in the previous photo in 1998!

It has been worse... the dam was EMPTY in the winter of 1983... looking out from in front of the boatshed, Flagstaff in the foreground. No water to be seen anywhere!!!
Then compare this same view from 2006:

October 2011: Water level 80%!!! Looking out across the water at the northern end of the boatshed... just last year, the walk to the edge of the water was about 200 meters from the top of that concrete ramp!!! Now it's all underwater!
By the way... that's the first time the water has been anywhere near that little temporary boatramp since 2001!!! (That was some leftover concrete from building the Sailability boatshed c.2001, and was used as a quick fix to a then-lowering waterline. Little did we all know that the water level would eventually drop to just 4% in 2010!!!)

The sun sets over the peaceful, sparkling waters of Carcoar Dam, from the 'beach' rigging area & pontoon. Water level was at 19% on 22 October 2006

Carcoar Dam Wall, September 2006
At the time of this photo, the water level was at just 20% capacity.
Mount Macquarie in the background, and the windfarm turbines are off to the left.

Carcoar Dam wall, 1 November 2006.

Face of Carcoar Dam, 1 November 2006

They're letting all our water out! The bottom of Carcoar Dams' face, 1 November 2006

View from atop Carcoar Dam wall, 1 November 2006

The power boat section near the dam wall. Public boat ramp is off to the left, wind turbines off to the right. CDSC is up around the next bend in the lake. 1 November 2006

More Clubhouse, Boatshed, Surrounds, Dam & 360º Panoramic Views :
Go to page 1 - Go to page 3

Clubhouse, Boatshed, Surrounds, Dam & 360º Panoramic Views - 2005/06 Part 1

2011-10-09T05:11:00.044+11:00

Clubhouse, Boatshed, Surrounds, Dam & 360º Panoramic Views - 2005/06
Photos: Mal Kiely
Page 1 of 3

Without these faithful people, our Sailing Club would not exist.
We thank and honour their contributions over the years to Carcoar Dam Sailing Club.

Our front gate at 739 Carcoar Dam Road, Blayney.
The Kinross School Rowing Shed is at the right, the clubhouse behind it, and the boatshed is obscured by trees to the rear-left. October 2006

Carcoar Dam Sailing Club Clubhouse, with amenities wing at the left, October 2006.

Clubhouse, side gate and front deck, October 2006.

Carcoar Dam Sailing Club Clubhouse, with the access track in the foreground, October 2006

End view of the Clubhouse, October 2006. Not every clubhouse can boast of their very own Portholes!

The wheelchair access ramp along the side of the Clubhouse, built 2005.

The fenced side yard along the road-side of the Clubhouse, with a glimpse of the dam top-right.

Rear-side view of the concrete wheelchair-access ramp into the Clubhouse building, October 2006.

View across the back fence, with the access ramp going to the back door. Sailing Club Clubhouse, October 2006. (The ruins of the original generator 'shed' are behind the photographer.)
Without valuable aid such as this, the wheelchair access ramp would not have been able to be built. (Sign on the front gate of the Clubhouse, October 2006)

The remains of the old electricity generator shed, behind the Clubhouse. Built half into the hillside to try to baffle the noise from any portable noisy generator.

The small fenced yard at the back of the Clubhouse (great for camping).

Thanks to many volunteer man-hours, we have an adequate water supply. Rear of the amenities wing, October 2006. The rear kitchen window is behind the silver water tank.

Amenities wing, complete with a disabled-access toilet, October 2006. The disabled-access toilet would never have been constructed without the generous support of these organisations.

Looking back up the short slope from the Sailability boatshed towards the clubhouse building. This whole site has been built and looked after by countless hours of faithful volunteer club members and friends over many years. (Note the 'gifts' from the friendly cows!)

The model boat centerpiece which graces the main long table inside the Clubhouse.

Inside the Clubhouse, looking towards the kitchen (at back), front sliding door to the left. The pot belly stove can be seen on the right. October 2006

Inside the Clubhouse, looking from beside the pot-belly stove towards the far wall. Table tennis table at the rear, a porthole can be spied above Geoff's upraised arms, and the sliding glass front door to the right. October 2006

View inside the Clubhouse from the kitchen.

View inside the Clubhouse, seen from in front of the kitchen. October 2006.

This gorgeous pot-belly-stove heats up the insides the Clubhouse on those cold days. October 2006

View into the kitchen from the pot-belly stove. Note the fridge against the far wall... an interesting touch... considering there's no electricity!

View across to the kitchen sinks, with hot water thanks to a gas heater.

Gotta love the light globe (top-left) with a miniature sailing boat enclosed.

The "Trophy Cabinet" inside the Clubhouse. October 2006

The Mendham Trophy for the CDSC Annual Championship. October 2006

Overall Champion's Trophy. October 2006

Sailability Interclub Challenge - Orange Vs Penrith. Winner 2006 - Central West.

More Clubhouse, Boatshed, Surrounds, Dam & 360º Panoramic Views photos:
Go to Page 2 - Go to Page 3

Sailing Day - 5th November 2006

2011-10-09T04:47:00.018+11:00

Sailing Day - 5th November 2006
We had THIRTEEN boats sailing with us today! Sensational!
3 Access 2.3's, an Access 303, a Mirror, a Solo, a Maricat, and 6 Lasers.
(NB. Carcoar Dam's water level was at just 17% capacity on this day).
(Pics: Mal Kiely)

One of my favourite photos so far... Marcia (in blue) demonstrating to Dave how a "Cunningham" works to help flatten the mainsail on the club Laser. Everybody learns off everybody here.

Dave, Marcia and Foulkert with the club Laser.

Centre: Marcia (blue) demonstrates how a "Cunningham" works to flatten the mainsail on the club Laser that David's sailing.

Atlanta and Sydney Paralympian Peter Worsley getting his Access 303 ready for a day on the water.

George Hone helps rig Peter Worsley's (as yet unnamed) Access 303 Tender dinghy.

Everybody helps each other out when it comes to rigging.

The first time we'd seen Timothy Hone's Laser "Plane Sailing" this season - welcome back, Timothy!

Hang on...? Is that Dick's Maricat (3656) and Mal's Solo (2686) hiding in amongst all those Lasers...? Yup!

Mark, Dick and Foulkert trying to figure out the wonderful course Rosie had set... now, is that buoy to port or starboard...?

Mark and Marcia enjoying themselves before the sailing fun starts.

Stuart Riles and his son getting their Mirror "Toffee Apple" ready to take out.

Almost ready... L-R: Dave & Marcia (backs to camera), Rosie (in white hat), Mark and Foulkert.

The Mirror "Toffee Apple" hits the water.

George Hone takes the unnamed Access 2.3 for a spin, while "Community of Orange" and "Daybreak" await their crew.

Lunchtime! Although the question was asked, "Where are the starters...?!?" Still out in the motor boat, of course!

Half of the thirteen-strong fleet enjoy the lunch break.

Photo Galleries

2011-10-09T04:46:00.017+11:00

Sailing Club Photo Galleries

Clubhouse, Boatshed, Surrounds, Dam & 360º Panoramic Views - 2005/2006 : Part One - Part Two - Part Three

Camping & Sunsets at Carcoar Dam - 2006/2007

The water is back! - October 2011

Social Sail - January 2011

Oberon Regatta - January 2009

Bernie's Birthday Bash - Oberon, April 2008
Wallerawang Regatta - November 2007
Social Sailing & Boat Launch - September/October 2007

Boats at Carcoar Dam SC - 2006/2007

AGM & Social Day - July 2007
Bernie's Birthday Bash, Oberon Dam - 31st March-1st April 2007
Social Sailing at Chifley Dam - March 2007
Social Day & Boat Launching - 14 January 2007
26th Annual Fish River Sailing Club Regatta at Oberon Dam - 20-21 January 2007
Social Sailing Day - 10 December 2006
Sailing Day - 26 November 2006
Wallerawang Regatta - 18-19 November 2006
Sailing Day - 5 November 2006
Sailing Day - 29 October 2006
Sailing Day - 22 October 2006
Sailing Day - 15 October 2006
First day of the season - 8 October 2006

Sailability and CDSC Construction Projects - 2004/2005

CDSC Historical Photos - early 2000's

CDSC Historical Photos - 1990's

CDSC Historical Photos - 1980's

Construction of the Clubhouse - 1979-1980

CDSC Historical Photos - 1970's

Club History
Club Historical Archives

Sailability Central West - Photo Galleries

Oberon Regatta 20-21 January 2007

2011-10-09T04:13:00.035+11:00

26th Annual Fish River Sailing Club Regatta at Oberon Dam
20-21 January 2007
(Pics: Mal Kiely)

Mark readies some of the Carcoar Lasers in preparation for Saturday's racing.
That mud on the shoreline was thick, oozy, black and sticky! But the water was delightful, although at only 25% capacity.

Resplendent in the new CDSC Club Shirt, Marcia prepares some of the Lasers for Saturday's racing.

Ian and Ash wrestle their Gemini's trailer into a better position. Ian couldn't stay for the whole weekend, leaving Ash to enjoy some one-up sailing.

Jim Nutley rigs his Maricat "Jabs" prior to Saturday's first heat.

Most of the cats who participated in the weekend Regatta included Nacras, Maricats, Stingrays, Geminis, Hobies and Taipans.

The Carcoar Laser fleet showed up in good numbers for the weekend.
Left-to-right: Mal's "Wyreema II", Marcia's "Magic", Dave's new Laser, and Mark's "Crusher".

Right to left: CDSC Lasers "Crusher" (Mark), "Magic" (Marcia) and "Wyreema II" (Mal).
If it wasn't for those dolly trailers, getting the boats past that thick mud right at the shoreline would have been even more difficult!

Some of the fleet enjoying the warm summer sunshine on Saturday morning beside Lake Oberon.

A local Hobie 16 and a Bathurst MG-14.

Dave (left) and Mal both learnt heaps from each other in some close Laser racing during Saturday.

Mark models our new CDSC Club fluro sailing shirt. Lots of people bought one over the weekend.
No one could be missed out on the water wearing one - and that's the idea!

Jim and Shirley Nutley (from Parkes) enjoying the shade of the large pine trees during the Saturday lunch break. Jim can keep all of us entertained and inspired for hours with his tales and encouragement.

Dave Tory, also from Parkes, gracefully models our latest Club sailing shirt.

Some of the sailors rest in the shade by the Fish River SC kiosk during Saturday lunchtime.

Mal recovers quickly from his first-ever swim during the second-time-out in his CDSC's Laser "Wyreema II". ("Team Gherkin" in a pickle...?!?)
(Pics courtesy of Fish River SC)

Those brave (or crazy?!?) enough prepare to face Sunday mornings' challenging, fresh and blustery conditions.

Jim Nutley, on his Maricat "Jabs", had a nasty spill before the start of Heat Three, and needed some helpful assistance to get underway once again. ("If Jim capsized before the start, you know it's gonna be a windy day!")

Mark was surprisingly upbeat and philosophical, despite snapping his Laser's mast right at deck level, before the start of Heat Three. Altho he went on with a new rig, restarted and completed the race! Way to go!

Dave attempted reefing his Laser's sail for Heat Three, but in the end it made his day more difficult. A nice rest on the relatively safety of a calm lee shore saw him right again!

1 of 4
A masterly display of boat handling by CDSC's Marcia Lac in 30+ knots.

2 of 4
Marcia shows us how to keep her Laser flat and the bow up. Is this surfing or sailing?

3 of 4
No caption needed, surely... WOW!

4 of 4
Marcia heads for the bottom mark in 30+ knots, her Laser flat and in control.
In the left-background is one of the cats in trouble. The Dam wall is in the background.
And yes - it was actually ROUGHER on the water than these pictures describe!

This Wallerawang MG-14 was sailed one-up in Heat Three on Sunday, but wisely retired in the overpowering conditions. A young crew helped him during Heart Four, until a rudder failure ended his day.

A Bathurst Laser bravely attempted to race during Heat Three's blustery conditions, yet decided to retire early a little-the-wetter for her experience.

Wallerawang's Andy Holden enjoying the spoils of victory after his success in Heat Four on an astoundingly blustery day out on the water.

The spoils of victory for both CDSC's Marcia and Mark in the overall Monohull Division - framed photos of their days' out on the dam.

Club Social Sail - 29 October 2006

2011-10-08T20:16:00.027+11:00

Club Social Sail - 29 October 2006
(The Dam's water level was at just 19% capacity on this day)

Greg and Marcia share a friendly moment, while Mark smirks behind.

Dick getting his Maricat ready.

A busy beach, with a mix of cars, trailers, boats and gear seemingly everywhere... but there's a lot more space in reality! It's lovely to see such a great roll-up on a warm sunny spring day.

Marcia and Mark, sailing the same direction - on opposite tacks! Gotta love the fluky conditions of lake sailing!

Greg, Mal, Folkert, Mark and Marcia.

Mal, Folkert, Marcia, Mark (obscured) and Greg.

A parade of boats in light, sunny conditions.

Four Lasers, two Access dinghies, and one Maricat parade in a light breeze.

Laser, Access, Laser, Access, Access, and two Lasers.

Greg's Laser, "Radar"

Marcia being "peaceful" aboard her "Thin Red Line" Laser.

"Mungo Brush", "Thin Red Line", "Crusher", "Radar" and "Hazard" mill around the top mark.

Marcia on "Thin Red Line", Dick aboard "Hazard", and Foulkert on board "Mungo Brush"

Mark's "Crusher", Foulkert on "Mungo Brush", Access 3.3 "Independence", and Marcia's "Thin Red Line".

Dick aboard his Maricat 4.3 "Hazard"

Greg aboard his Laser "Radar"

Mark, Foulkert, the "Independence", and Marcia... trying to find some wind in the light, fluky conditions during the later afternoon. "Where'd the wind go...?!?"

"Crusher", "Thin Red Line", and "Independence" seek some breeze.

Foulkert sailing the Laser "Mungo Brush"

Marcia brings her Laser ashore.... and finally makes it!

Bring her in, Mark! "Crusher" almost ashore in practically mirror-surface-like conditions.

Club Sailing Day - 26th November 2006

2011-10-08T19:48:00.029+11:00

Club Sailing Day - 26th November 2006
NB. The water level was at only 16.5% capacity on this day :(

Folkert Janssen receiving his trophy, being for First Place in Wang Regattas' Invitation Race the week before, from Geoff [left].

Marcia receives one of her two trophies from the Wang Regatta the week before, from Geoff.

Folkert preparing the Laser "Mungo Brush". "Why wasn't there wind like this at Wang last weekend?!?"

Marcia and ?

Geoff & Rosie Body and Marcia Lac.

Dick Benson and Rosie Body.

Starter and Handicapper in deep discussion before a race.

Dave and Mark preparing the club Laser for a day on the water.

Mal's Solo "Wyreema" (left) in an upright position again, after his most magnificent 'swim' in the first race... after his "broach'n'turtle" impression...

Dave rounding the bottom mark... he never gives up! Keep going, Dave!

Marcia rounding the bottom mark second time around during the second race.

Marcia heads upwind for the third time.

L-R: Folkert, Mark, Marcia and Geoff [yellow Laser, foreground] tackle the bottom mark.

Don't let this photo fool you... although Timothy in the Access 303 "Independence" is half a lap behind the others, he's actually WINNING on handicap!

The next time around the bottom buoy, Folkert [left] had caught upto Marcia.

As Geoff rounds the bottom buoy the third time, Marcia cops a gust [centre].

Mark preparing to round the bottom buoy.

Dave about to round the bottom buoy. The broken boom vang can be noticed not holding the boom down... which became a 'bit' of a problem next lap around!
Keep it up, Dave, you're doing really good!

Lots of tired faces and bodies sitting around relaxing in the Clubhouse after the days racing.
L-R: Dave, Marcia, Timothy, Folkert [green shirt], Dick.

L-R: Dick, Geoff, Rosie, Mark.

Club Sailing Day - 22 October 2006

2011-10-08T19:23:00.030+11:00

Carcoar Dam Sailing Club, Sailing - 22 October 2006
(The Dam's water level was at only 20% capacity on this day)

David and Mark getting the Club Laser ready for the day's sailing.

Sara with her daughters, while Foulkert rigs the Club Laser behind them. It's great to see young families coming along.

Greg's Laser and Dick's Maricat.

Greg's Laser, "Radar", and Dick's Maricat, "Hazard", soaking up the gorgeous Spring sunshine before they hit the water for the mornings' race.

Marcia getting ready Mark and her Lasers for a great day out on the water.

Marcia efficiently rigging Mark's Laser for him.

Hiya Geoff! The wind was pretty chilly before lunch, but it turned out to be a glorious Spring day.

Geoff rigging his Laser, "Storm", in readiness for the day's sailing.

Geoff and Mark (in car) getting the runabout ready. The centre of all the action - the blue esky! heh heh

Dick rigging his Maricat.

Greg's Laser, "Radar", in preparation for the days' sailing.

Marcia spies Mal jotting down some sailing tips on the run.

Foulkert ready to put the Club Laser thru its paces.

The arrival of our latest donation to the Sailing Club - gratefully received - is this Topper.

Mark, David and Marcia all excited about the arrival of the latest donated Club Boat, a Topper.

David launches the new Club boat, a Topper, for the first time today.

Mark feeling 'peaceful' before the mornings' race.
We had a total of nine boats sailing today... wonderful for a small club like ours.

Lunchtime! A relaxed, casual bite to eat and catch-up chat in the glorious Spring sunshine beside the waters of the dam.
L-R: Rosie Body (white hat), Jill & Dick Benson, Geoff Body, Marcia Lac & Mark Fletcher.

David, Greg, Tim and Rosie relaxing over the lunchbreak.

Mark summed up the day perfectly, "That's the best day's sailing I've had yet!"

Some of the early starters, viewed from in front of the Clubhouse. Normally the water would be much closer than this! This shot gives a concept of the scale of how far away the water's edge is from where it should be.

Mal enjoying the late-afternoon Spring sunshine out by the side of Carcoar Dam.

Sailability - 17 December 2006

2011-10-08T07:13:00.019+11:00

Sailability - 17 December 2006
Sailability NSW - Central West, Carcoar Dam Sailing Club
Our last Sunday of 2006 and Annual General Meeting (AGM)
The water level was at only 14%, sadly :(

Graham Hamilton (our Vice-President) proves the relevance of the Sailability motto: "Freedom on the water regardless of ability"

Timothy and Luke prepare the Access 303's straight out of the Boatshed at the days' start.

Vince preparing the boats for the days' sailing.

Ian (top) and Vince rigging "Independence"

Timothy rigging the Access 2.3 "Free Spirit"

Dave and Luke (in blue) rigging "Independence" and Timothy (rear) with the "Pink Lady".

Timothy and Ian

Luke has been a fantastic, enthusiastic helper with Sailability, and a great encouragement to everybody.

Santa must have dropped some hats on top of the boats as he flew past, perhaps...?

Garry Starr (right) facilitates a very relaxed, casual yet efficient 2006 AGM.

Sailability Central West 2006 AGM

2006 Sailability Central West AGM

2006 Sailability Central West AGM

Today was only Scott's second time out in an Access Servo by himself. Good on ya, matey! You sailed wonderfully.

Vince Byrnes, lunchtime under the shade shelter

Thanks for all your help, Luke!

Graham Hamilton, Sailability Central West Vice President

Lunch break . . . under the marquee out of a hot summer sunny day.

Sailability Central West 2005-07

2011-10-08T06:31:00.039+11:00

Sailability Central West 2005-07
(Photos courtesy of Garry Starr, Mal Kiely, Sailability Central West)

Scott Vandenbergh with his Encouragement Medal
Well done, Scotty! We are all proud of you!
Chifley Dam, 25th March 2007 (Pic: Mal Kiely)

Timothy Hone presents Scotty Vandenbergh with his Encouragement Medal
for his fantastic effort and results at the 2007 NSW Access State Championships at Belmont.
Chifley Dam, 25th March 2007 (Pic: Mal Kiely)

Timothy Hone presents Scotty Vandenbergh with his Encouragement Medal
Sailability, Chifley Dam, 25th March 2007 (Pic: Mal Kiely)

Charles Dunkley awards Timothy Hone the Maritime Medal
Timothy Hone has been awarded the Maritime Medal for his contribution to sailing in the Central West, and specifically with Sailability, on Wednesday 20 December 2006.
Congratulations, Timothy! A huge honour!

The picture they didn't want you to see... thanx Garry Starr! hahahahahaaaa!
Timothy Hone's Maritime Medal Presentation, 20 December 2006

Friday 17th November 2006
A group from Carenne School Bathurst enjoyed their day on the water. (Pic: Mal Kiely)

Using the hoist (1). Garry Starr gets ready to go sailing in the Access 2.3 "Free Spirit" dinghy,
26th February 2005 at Carcoar Dam Sailing Club.
(Photo courtesy of Garry Starr)

Using the hoist (2). Winching Garry out of his chair.
(Photo courtesy of Garry Starr)

Using the hoist (3). Swinging Garry across into the Access 2.3 dinghy.
(Photo courtesy of Garry Starr)

Using the hoist (4)
(Photo courtesy of Garry Starr)

Using the hoist (5). Lowering Garry into the "Free Spirit"
Sailability combines pleasure with safety, thanks to lots of willing and able volunteers.
Timothy Hone, Vince Byrnes, Garry Starr (in boat), and Ian 'Macca' McDonald
(Photo courtesy of Garry Starr)

Voila! Disabilities have no boundaries when it comes to sailing an Access 2.3. Garry Starr, 26th February 2005
(Photo courtesy of Garry Starr)

You won't miss seeing Timothy Hone out on the water with all those colours! October 2006
One of our volunteers who, along with with Garry Starr, oversee all the Sailability activities.
"They get moi in and out of the boat and so are vital cogs not to mention bloody good blokes" - Garry Starr
(Pic: Mal Kiely)

Ian 'Macca' McDonald, one of our loyal volunteers. October 2006 (Pic: Mal Kiely)

Vince Byrnes, one of our wonderful volunteers, October 2006 (Pic: Mal Kiely)

Beside the dam at Carcoar. Marquee (left), long black rubber matting provides safe access to the pontoon, and the Access Dinghy 2.3 "Community of Orange" to the right. October 2006.
(Pic: Mal Kiely)

The portable marquee by the shoreline provides shade from the summer sun. October 2006
(Pic: Mal Kiely)

Lunchbreak for one group under the shelter of the shoreside marquee. October 2006
(Pic: Mal Kiely)

Ian MacDonald and Steve Vandenbergh have a well-deserved coffee-break.
Sailability, Chifley Dam, 25th March 2007 (Pic: Mal Kiely)

The Access 2.3 "Community of Orange" sits at the ready, besides the pontoon, complete with the hoist. October 2006 (Pic: Mal Kiely)

Access 2.3 "Free Spirit" sailing Carcoar Dam. October 2006 (Pic: Mal Kiely)

Access 2.3 "Free Spirit", October 2006 (Pic: Mal Kiely)

Access 303 "Pink Lady", October 2006 (Pic: Mal Kiely)

Access 303 "Independence" and Access 2.3 "Free Spirit", Carcoar Dam 26 February 2005
(Photo courtesy of Garry Starr)

Access 303 "Independence" and Access 2.3 "Free Spirit", Carcoar Dam 26 February 2005
(Photo courtesy of Garry Starr)

Access 2.3 "Free Spirit" and Access 303 "Independence", Carcoar Dam 26 February 2005
(Photo courtesy of Garry Starr)

Access 2.3 "Free Spirit" and Access 303 "Independence", 26 February 2005
(Photo courtesy of Garry Starr)

The Sailability boatshed at Carcoar Dam Sailing Club, June 2006
(Pic: Mal Kiely)

Some of our wonderful sponsors whos' donations assisted in the construction of the boatshed.

Organisations who kindly contributed to the construction of our disabled-access amenities block.

Access 2.3 "Daybreak" scooting along the top of Carcoar Dam, c. 2003-04.

Sailability - February 2007

2011-10-08T05:56:00.023+11:00

Sailability - February 2007

We've had some glorious weather for Sailability this month, out at Chifley Dam. The water level was at about 50% capacity... the largest body of water around for at least 150 kms!

Access 2.3's "Free Spirit" and "Daybreak" sit alongside the Rubber Ducky awaiting their crews. Monday at Ben Chifley Dam with Carenne School.

The "Rubber Ducky" (nicknamed "Zoom" for some strange reason...) that we've now taken over from Dubbo Sailability, out on the shores of Chifley Dam near Bathurst.

Access 2.3's "Free Spirit" and "Daybreak" basking in the glorious morning sunshine at Chifley Dam one Monday.

"Smile for the camera, Timothy!"
"Do I have to...?!?" (smirks all round)

Timothy Hone strapping the small trailer down, after a day out at Chifley Dam.

Timothy Hone (left) and Mr Moon (from Carenne School, Bathurst) ready for a weekdays' activities, by the shores of Chifley Dam.
Access 2.3's "Free Spirit" and "Daybreak" sit patiently awaiting their crews.

Sunday 25th February 2007. The monthly Sailability event, this time held at Ben Chifley Dam rather than at Carcoar, due to poor water levels at Carcoar.
Timothy and Luke have already rigged the three Access 303's in preparation... all we need now is some sailors!
We need not have worried... by the end of the day twenty-two people went out of a sail! An excellent turn-out!!!

Fantastic volunteer Steve Vandenbergh at Chifley Dam, Sailability 25th February 2007.

Three of our Access 303's rigged and ready to go. Beside the main boat ramp at Ben Chifley Dam, 25th February 2007

Timothy Hone, Graham Hamilton (right) and Garry Starr (behind)

Getting Scotty Vandenbergh (top left) ready for a sail in the (as yet unnamed) red Access 303.

Because we didn't have the pontoon out for this day at Chifley Dam, we placed the sailors into the boats, then pushed the boat atop a small trolley down into the water. With our steady volunteer helpers, it worked well.

Launching the 303 "Pink Lady" from off the small trolley and into the water at Chifley Dam, 25th February 2007.

The boats' afloat... now to remove the trolley from underneath, and fit the rudder and centreboard.

Scotty (already in the boat) gets ready for Luke (left) to go out for a sail with him. Scotty's dad Steve told us how much his son absolutely revels in having the freedom to be able to actively participate in sailing days out with Sailability such as this.

Timothy (left) prepares to hook the small hoist so as to lift in the heavy centerboard, while Steve readies the rudder blade. Luke (middle) and Scott sit aboard the Access 303, ready to go.

Timothy takes the "Zoom" out for a run, whilst the red 303 scoots along in the background, at Chifley Dam during Sailability 25th February 2007.
Timothy usually takes some passengers out for a spin while the sailing boats are out, to give people some different exposure to being on the water. The result? People keep coming back time and time again, for both sail and motor boat!

"Hey Timothy... how about a smile for the camera while you're in the rubber ducky...?"
"OK... can you draw me like one of your French girls...?"
"Errr... weeeelll..." hahahaaa

Yeah, of course we have fun! It's so enjoyable.

The large trailer with its load of 303's and rubber ducky, out at Chifley Dam.

September-October 2007

2011-10-07T18:02:00.002+11:00

Launching two new club boats, and some Social Sailing at Carcoar Dam Sailing Club, Sept-Oct 2007 ... we even had some rare RAINFALL!!!!

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Sailability Boatshed Extension Sept-Oct 2007

2011-10-07T17:56:00.004+11:00

Sailability Construction Projects

Boatshed Extension - September-October 2007

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15th October 2006

2011-10-07T11:24:00.021+11:00

Sailing Day - 15th October 2006

View from the Sailing Club Front Gate. The Clubhouse is behind the trees at the right, and dam off to the left.

The Sailability 'tinnie' safety boat ready to go, tied up to the pontoon.

After a good days' sailing at Carcoar. The Club's Laser (kindly donated and launched today) is the red Laser on the right.

After a good mornings' sail, the new Club Boat, kindly donated... she sails really well, too.

Ash & Ian Johnson relaxing on their Marcicat after the mornings' sailing.

Slowly unrigging some of the boats, and enjoying each others' company in the glorious spring sunshine after a great days' Spring sailing. One of the Club's motorboats is tied up to the pontoon in the background.

Mal's 'Solo' (foreground), Dick's cat (middle), and the Johnson's cat (back)... and a tinnie.. a few Lasers... a windsurfer...

Lots of different classes sail out of Carcoar, including two Maricats and a Solo.

The Tory family from Parkes enjoy the lunch break. It's wonderful to see young families coming along being actively involved - and having great fun.

Lunch break...

The ever-smiling Geoff Body after a great days' club sailing.

Looking into the cockpit of the Club Laser.

Foulkert leans into the cockpit and de-rigs the Club's Laser, after a fun club days' sail.

Everyone happily pitches in and helps out.

14 January 2007

2011-10-07T10:58:00.028+11:00

Social & Boat launch - 14th January 2007
A quick meeting, social BBQ get-together, and a new boat launching...
The biggest roll-up to CDSC in years - 22 people! The Clubhouse was full - lovely.
(The Dam's water level was at less than 12% capacity on this day...)

L-R: Marcia (standing), Catherine, Greg, Michelle, the Tory boys, Dave, Geoff, Folkert (in green stripes).

Marcia facilitating a quick, efficient meeting. A fantastic rollup. We actually ran out of chairs - a fantastic way to be!
Left-right: Dick (foreground), Jill, Rosie, Catherine, Marcia, and Michelle with her two boys.

A full-house (literally!) for our first meeting and social get-together of 2007. Fantastic to see such a great roll-up.

The meeting is just underway. What a great roll-up - and even more were on their way!
Dick reads his Treasurer's report - it's all positive.
Left-right: Dick, Michelle, Louise (on lap), Timothy waving to the camera (as usual! heh heh), Geoff (obscured), Folkert, Greg, Ben and Tom.

One of our casual meetings. Short and sweet. Hank agreed the Clubhouse hadn't seen so many people in quite a few years! Excellent!

The meeting is underway... and all over in about 20 minutes!
Clockwise: Ian (foreground), Dick, Jill, Geoff (behind), Rosie, Catherine, Marcia, Sara, Michelle (behind), Tom, Ben (obscured behind Tom) & Ashley (obscured).

The meetings' over... now let's fire-up that BBQ!

The Meetings' just finished, and people disperse to attack their lunch preparations!
Left-Right: Ian (at window), Folkert, Tom, Timothy (foreground back to camera), Ben (black shirt), Ashley, Michelle (at kitchen), Mark, Dick, Jill and Catherine.

A family lunch break!
The Tory boys with Michelle and Sara (in blue).

Lunch is consumed happily by all over various happy conversations!
Clockwise from foreground: Ben (back to camera), Greg (black shirt), Dick, Jill, Rosie, Catherine, Michelle, Mark, Hank Runeman (blue shirt).

Dave Tory rigs his new Laser in preparations for its launching.
Dave (in blue), Michelle, and Geoff holds the mast.

Folkert (in green) and Geoff helping Dave rig his new Laser for its launch. There's not much wind out there, Dave! heh heh

Dave readies to hit the water for the first time in his new Laser.

Everybody helped Dave launch his new Laser!

Dave Tory receives a rousing cheer in celebration at the launching of his new Laser.

Lots of Chiefs and too little Injuns for Dave, launching his new Laser? Nuh uh! Everybody helps everyone else here... and we all learn off each other as well.
Afterwards Marcia spent a bit of time discussing the role of the centerboard with Dave.

Everyone was excited to see Dave launching his new Laser. Don't get too wet coping in that howling breeze out there, Dave!

And Dave's on his way for the first time on his new Laser, amidst much cheering and happy encouragement.

"Duuuhhh... should we have told Dave dat we took dah bung out of his boat...?"
Timothy and Geoff considering the finer aspects of sailing...

Dave enjoying his new Laser, despite the lack of wind and blazing summer sunshine. A sail is a sail!

Enjoying the spectacle of Dave launching his new Laser were (l-r) Ben, Greg, Dick, Jill and Hank. The water level was just below 12% capacity! :(

Part of the vast array of spectators on the dam foreshore, watching the launching of Dave's new Laser. Left-Right: Greg, Dick, Hank (obscured), Ben and Jill.

Timothy and Rosie watching Dave's Laser Launch.

Right-left: Geoff, Timothy, Michelle, Marcia, (?)

Kids, water and mud - attract like magnets!

Folkert and Sara consider how they are gonna get their daughter Louise clean and back in the car... ahh, the magical joy of kids and mud...

Dave brings his new Laser ashore happily.

Sailability - 29 October 2006

2011-10-07T10:49:00.011+11:00

Sailability - 29th October 2006

Launch of the "Pink Lady", Sailability Central West at Carcoar Dam Sailing Club

Garry Starr (in chair) gets ready to officially launch the Access 3.3 "Pink Lady"

Garry Starr (in chair), co co-ordinator of Sailability Central West, and members of Rotary Daybreak.

The official launch of the Access 303 "Pink Lady", 29th October 2006
(Photo courtesy of Garry Starr)

Garry Starr (in chair) with representatives from Rotary Daybreak, Orange, officially launch the Access 3.3 "Pink Lady"

The official launch of the Access 303 "Pink Lady", 29th October 2006
(Photo courtesy of Garry Starr)

... and the champagne goes flying! Duck! hahahaa!
The official launch of the Access 303 "Pink Lady", 29th October 2006
(Photo courtesy of Garry Starr)

Garry Starr with champagne readies to officially launch the newest member of the fleet, 303 "Pink Lady".
29th October 2006, Carcoar Dam Sailing Club
(Photo courtesy of Garry Starr)

Still fresh from its champagne, the "Pink Lady" greets the water.

Garry Starr (in boat, dark hat) ready for a sail in the latest 303.
The official launch of the Access 303 "Pink Lady"
(Photo courtesy of Garry Starr)

Where would Sailability be without its generous sponsors?
The official launch of the Access 303 "Pink Lady"
(Photo courtesy of Garry Starr)

The launch of the newest "Access 303" sailability boat, "Pink Lady".

"Pink Ladys' " first day out at Carcoar! Garry Starr (dark hat) takes her out.

The official launch of the Access 303 "Pink Lady"
(Photo courtesy of Garry Starr)

Sailability motorboat at the ready, tied to the pontoon. At the end of the pontoon is the winch and harness to enable wheelchair-bound sailors access to the Sailability 'Access' dinghies. The "Daybreak" is on the right.

Access 2.3 "Daybreak" & Access 2.3 "Community of Orange" & Access 3.3 "Independence"

That's a genuine smile, after some time in an Access Dinghy. (Steve Vandenberg, left)

Some of the Sailability clients getting ready for lunch, out of the warm Spring sunshine.

You can't miss him out on the water! Timothy Hone is one of the main tireless volunteer facilitators of Sailability Central West.

10th December 2006

2011-10-07T10:37:00.013+11:00

Social Sailing Day, 10th December 2006
It was a social, fun - and hot - day of social sailing with 4 Access 303's, a Topper, a Laser, and a Maricat!
NB. The Dam's water level was at 15% capacity on this day - and dropping rapidly :(

Jim Nutley (from Parkes) and his Maricat "Jarbs".

Luke, Marcia and Timothy helping pack away the Access 303's. Jim Nutley unrigs his Maricat, right-rear.

Luke (right) spent most of his day out on the water enjoying the Club Topper. He's a really enthusiastic young bloke - thanks, Luke!

Packing away the Club Topper (left) and four Access 303's were (L-R) Greg, Dick, Marcia, Timothy, Luke and Geoff. Rosie and Jill sensibly keep out of the sunshine. By this time (c.3.30 pm) the breeze had dropped off to next-to-nothing.

While the Club Topper (left) awaits unrigging, Greg, Dick and Geoff start packing away the Access 303's.

Timothy showing off his... joystick... (put it down, Timothy! hahahaaa!)
Dick, behind him, gets on with the serious work...

Everybody pitching in to help pack away, after a fun day's sailing. Mal's shade sure came in handy today.

We were very happy to see the welcome return of Parkes sailor, the awesomely inspiring Jim Nutley (left).

Relaxing after the day's activities were (L-R) Timothy, Rosie and Geoff.

Dave and Marcia relaxing in the cooler Clubhouse after a hot day's social sailing.

(L-R): Luke, Jim, Timothy, Rosie and Geoff (who always seems to know when a photo's being taken nearby! hahahaa!)

Jill and Dick Benson relaxing at day's end in the Clubhouse.

Sunset over Carcoar Dam, Saturday evening, 9 December 2006.

8th October 2006

2011-10-07T10:17:00.023+11:00

8th October 2006

We had a wonderful turnout and perfect weather for the first day of sailing season 2006/07.

A combined social-sail and BBQ day with Sailability Central West and the sailing club. (The Dam's water level was at 20% capacity on this day).

A friendly social family BBQ lunch, inside the Carcoar Dam Sailing Club clubhouse building. A nice way to begin the new sailing season, renewing aquaintences and meeting new friends.

It's a nice, friendly family little club.

L-R: Geoff, Catherine, Dave, Rosie, Mark, Michelle and her boys.

Inside the Sailing Clubhouse building. Lovingly constructed and maintained by countless people and volunteer man-hours over many many years.

L-R: Marcia Lac, Dick Benson, Rosie and Geoff Body

L-R: Catherine Unwin, Geoff Body, Foulkert Janssen (in green), Rosie Body, Louise, Talia and Sara Janseen (around table tennis table), David Tory.

An Aussie tradition - the BBQ!

L-R: Dick Benson, Dave Tory's boys (in rear), Geoff Body (in yellow), Michelle Tory, Greg Unwin, Talia Janssen.

Greg & Catherine Unwin & Geoff Body

Our "Trophy Cabinet"...

A wonderful turnout, including some new families as well. Fantastic!

I don't think the shore has seen so much traffic recently!

Club Commodore, Marcia Lac (in the blue hat) making some last-minute adjustments to one of the boats.

Getting things ready out on the water, thanks to Sailability's 'Tinnie' and some helpful friendly volunteers. (Hi, Timothy!)

Keeping safe out of the warm Spring sunshine.

Vince Byrnes, one of our loyal Sailability Volunteers.

Access 2.3 "Free Spirit" welcomes in the new sailing season.

Early starters!

CDSC - 2000's

2011-10-06T11:10:00.012+11:00

Carcoar Dam Sailing Club - 2000's

Presentation of Life Membership to Bert Driver in 2000

Presentation of Life Membership to Bert Driver in 2000
(Hank Runeman in blue jacket)

Presentation of Life Membership to Bert Driver in 2000
(Hank Runeman in blue jacket)

Presentation of Life Membership to Bert Driver in 2000
(Hank Runeman in blue jacket)

The Hone Familys' Corsair "True Blue", c.2001.

505 racing at Carcoar Dam, c.2001.
(If you know names of any of these following sailors and/or boats... please let us know - thanks!)

505 racing on Carcoar Dam, c.2001

Maricat on Carcoar Dam, c.2001

Hobiecat on Carcoar Dam, c.2001

Northbridge Senior on Carcoar Dam, c.2001

Racing on Carcoar Dam, c. 2001

The Hone Familys' Corsair, "True Blue", c.2001, Carcoar Dam

CDSC - 1990's

2011-10-06T10:42:00.029+11:00

Carcoar Dam Sailing Club - 1990's

Junior Championship - 1st Ben Nunan and Louise DeSantis
Presenter - Hank Runeman
1990-91 Season

Overall Club Championship, 3rd Place - David and Jenny Bedford
1990-91 Season

Summer Handicap, 2nd Place - Barry and Robyn Robertson, Hank Runeman (in blue)
1990-91 Season

Overall Club Championship, 1st Place - Joel Rooskov
1990-91 Season

The christening night of the Clubhouse table
L to R: Marion Stevens, Jackie Stevenson, Carol Lewis (in yellow, wife of Bob Lewis), Kathy Quinn
(Thanx muchly to Chris Stevenson for the pic, and Graham Rochester for some info)

A general view of rigging area in front of old rescue boat shed on a normal sailing Sunday. 1990
The Dam was FULL and you were able to launch on all three sides around the boatshed!
(Thanx greatly to Barry Robertson for the pic.) (If you know names of sailors and/or boats... please let us know!)

Carcoar Dam Club Annual Regatta, April 1990.
Photo taken from the grass slope in front of the Clubhouse, looking across to the old Boatshed (right-distance).
Thanx to Barry Robertson for the pic! (If you know names of sailors and/or boats... please let us know!)

1990: Barry (Club Commodore) and Robyn Robertson christening their new boat.
Interesting Clubhouse view - before Disabled facilities were constructed, and water tank at front-corner!
Thanx muchly to Barry Robertson for the pic.

The club's 21st anniversary cake with then-Commodore Chris Stevenson (1996)
(Thanx muchly to Chris Stevenson for the pic and Graham Rochester for the info).

Regatta Fleet at CDSC, 1990's.
Look at all those campers! Fantastic!
(Looking back across to the Clubhouse, centre-right)

Bruce Southwood flying his windsurfer on Carcoar Dam, late 1990's.

Bruce Southwood, late 1990's, Carcoar Dam.

A sunny Sunday group shot besides Carcoar Dam, rigging area, c. mid-1990's.
If you know names of sailors and/or boats... please let us know!

Ready for a days' sailing. The dam is full... water lapping almost behind the old boatshed (at the site of the current Sailability boatshed), October 1998. The countryside is so green!
(If you know names of sailors and/or boats... please let us know!)

One of the club rescue boats, Hank Runeman with oar. The dam is full! View from in front of the old boatshed, October 1998

THIS is what it's like when the dam is FULL! Water practically lapping around the doors of the old boatshed!
John Ford (forground), October 1998
Compare THIS with the same shot in 2006...

John Ford (2nd left), Hank Runeman (in green), pre-race briefing, October 1998. Water lapping beside the far-side of the old boatshed (on the site of the current Sailability boatshed).
(If you know names of sailors and/or boats... please let us know!)

Pre-race briefing, October 1998. John Ford (2nd from right), Hank Runeman (in green). Far-side of the old boatshed - and a full dam!
(If you know names of sailors and/or boats... please let us know!)
Compare this shot with a similar view in 2006 - and look at the difference in the water levels...

View from the Clubhouse across to the dam, 1990's. The two original shade shelters can be seen on the grass slope.
Here's the same view in 2006...

A Maricat flying a hull, Carcoar Dam, 1990's.

Regatta Fleet at CDSC, 1990's.
I spy... Windsurfers, Maricats, Corsairs, A Class, Hobies, Mirrors, Lasers...

Regatta fleet at CDSC, 1990's.

Laser sailing Carcoar Dam, 1990's

Here are some Carcoar Dam photos from around 1998 - 2001.
(Photos courtesy of Ash Johnson)

1980's

2011-10-06T10:20:00.018+11:00

Carcoar Dam Sailing Club - 1980's

View of an empty dam, c.1982. Looking back up towards the river.
Yes, that's the original river course you can see quite clearly. The launching area is just off to the mid-right.
Jamie Mendham informed me the water level was just 2 (two) % in 1982 !!!

By the winter of 1983, the dam was empty! View from the lawn in front of the clubhouse. The shelter was removed in 2005, and behind that is the original boatshed, on the site of the current Sailability boatshed.
(Photo courtesy B. Chester)

The view of a totally empty Carcoar Dam, winter 1983. Seen from in front of the boatshed, with the flagstaff in the foreground.
That green paddock is not water! (Photo courtesy B. Chester)
Compare THIS to the same shot in 2006...

Winter 1983. View looking back across a totally empty sailing basin towards the clubhouse and boatshed (mid-right).
This was taken just near the 'yellow mid-river buoy' (and the old bridge).
To give a sense of perspective, in the distance above the dog in the foreground you can see some people standing next to a car at what would be just below the normal launching area!!!
(Photo courtesy B. Chester)

Winter 1983. A totally empty Carcoar Dam, taken looking towards the 'yellow mid-river buoy.'
The remains of these trees were sticking out above the surface between 2005-2010. Normally all of this is underwater - even the old bridge!
(Photo courtesy B. Chester)

Carcoar Dam, c.1985, at almost 100% full again. Once the drought broke it didn't take long to fill-up again. View from in front of the clubhouse looking down towards the old boatshed (mid-right).

Proof sheet from the 1985 CDSC Regatta.
If you know names of sailors and/or boats... please let us know!

Proof sheet from the 1985 CDSC Regatta.
If you know names of sailors and/or boats... please let us know!

The Runeman Family were one of the original stalwarts of the club, right back from the 1950's.
(Article courtesy Central Western Daily, c.1985)

Bob Lewis, the race starter, accidently shot the starting flag!
Carcoar Dam Sailing Club Regatta, 1986.
(Many thanx to Graham Rochester for some info)

1989: Cliff Hutchins, Gina Wood & Cliff's daughter starting the port bottling at the back of Barry Robertson's house. The Club sold over 300 bottles to raise funds. (I still have a bottle - Barry) (Thanx to Barry Robertson for the pic)

Newspaper article - thanks to Barry Robertson (Club Commodore 1990-92)

Chris Stevenson & Bert Driver after a hot hard race (early 1980s)
(Gotta love professional sailors at play, huh? heh heh!)
(Thanx to Chris Stevenson for this glorious pic and Graham Rochester for the info)

Hank Runeman (right) finishing off the floor to the toilet block.
(Sincere thanx to Chris Stevenson for this pic)

A presentation to the Runeman family by members of CDSC
(L-R - Joe, Let and Hank Runeman)
(Many thanx to Chris Stevenson for this pic)

CDSC kids christmas party.
Santa is Roy Finch and the reindeer is Chris Stevenson
(Sincere thanx to Chris Stevenson for this pic)

1979-1980

2011-10-06T02:40:00.031+11:00

Carcoar Dam Sailing Club - 1979-1980
Construction of the Clubhouse

Dismantling the original old army hut at Blayney Showground, which would later become the clubhouse building. July 1979.

Dismantling the old army shed at Blayney Showground, that would later become the clubhouse building. July 1979.

Everybody pitched-in to help dismantle the old army shed. July 1979.

The beginning...the footings are dug and foundations laid for the new clubhouse out at the Carcoar Dam site. July 1979.

Preparing the foundations. July 1979

All hands on deck! Getting the floor ready to be put into place. Clubhouse, 1979.

The clubhouse floor goes down, section by section. 1979.
Each piece of the old hut was individually coded, so it could be re-erected exactly as it was originally... like a giant jigsaw puzzle!

One of the many working days to build the clubhouse - built by its members.
Many hands make light work of putting the floor sections down. August 1979.

Unloading the frame for the clubhouse. c.August 1979. The water level of the dam (behind) is slowly falling.

c. August 1979. The front gate can be seen at the right-rear. Pre-wind turbines, too!

Unlocking the giant jigsaw puzzle that were the building frames! c. August 1979.

The frame and roof trusses go up successfully. August 1979.

Looking good with the frame and roof trusses all up and ready to go. August 1979. Compare the same shot taken in November 2006...

The roof goes onto the clubhouse, September 1979.

Supermen put the roof on the clubhouse... here's the proof! September 1979

August and September were very busy months for the club members, constructing the clubhouse. The roof goes on, the front windows go in, September 1979.

The back walls' on! September 1979. Note the roller-door on the front grass, the front door until a few years ago... now the front door is a glass sliding door.

The front walls is almost on, the windows are in, and the roller-door as well. September 1979. The front gate can be seen at the rear-right.

The rear windows (at front) ready to go in. September 1979.

All hands on deck - let's get this ceiling up! September 1979. The guys on the right are standing where the table-tennis-table now stands.

One of the original ablution blocks (long since gone). September 1979

Original toilets - also long gone! September 1979

One of the two original shade shelters, built c. 1976 on the flat area in front of where the clubhouse now stands. Removed in 2005.

It's practically finished! Those were a few long hard months' work. All volunteer labour. c. November 1979.

November 1979. Building the front steps. Since replaced by a deck in c. 2004.

The Official Opening - 26th January 1980.
Carcoar Dam Sailing Club now had its own clubhouse - thanks to the tireless efforts of its members.

The Official Opening during the CDSC 1980 Regatta, Australia Day Long Weekend.
Note the power cable (right) that led to an electricity generator stationed at the rear of the clubhouse.

During the official opening of the clubhouse, Australia Day Long Weekend Regatta, 26th January 1980.
Hank Runeman on the bullhorn (blue shirt), and in the red is Marion Stephens and her daughter in front of her.
(Many thanx to Graham Rochester for the info)

CDSC - 1970's

2011-10-06T02:27:00.003+11:00

Bill Vaughan, past president of CDSC, in a Laser at Carcoar Dam (1970's).
(Sincere thanx to Chris Stevenson for the pic)

When the water goes out, the mud comes in. The best time to get bogged - when there's lots of people around to lend a hand to help you out! At the boat rigging area beside the dam, c. 1979. That's why there's a small ramp down into the water there nowdays.

Sailability and CDSC Construction Projects 2004/05 Pt.2

2011-10-06T02:07:00.029+11:00

Sailability and CDSC Construction Projects - 2004/2005
(Part 2 of 2 galleries)

Many thanks to Timothy Hone for the photos.

Outside bagging of the walls almost complete.

Walls and main construction of the disabled amenities block completed.

Hank Runeman laying the non-slip floor tiles.

Hank laying the non-slip floor tiles in the disabled toilets.

The shower recess is tiled in the disabled toilets.

The slab for the entryway to the disabled toilet is laid.

Door on and wiring goes in.

Mark and Geoff (right) building the retaining wall next to the disabled toilets.

Mark (foreground) and Geoff installing the access gate between the Clubhouse and amenities block.

Sailability NSW inspects the new amenities - and it's all given the thumbs-up.

John Ford and Peter mark out the new decking in the front of the Clubhouse.

Constructing the front Clubhouse decking. Hank Runeman second-right.

Tony Williams and Timothy Hone preparing the deck handrails.

Front Clubhouse deck freshly painted and completed.

Working party pour the cement wheelchair path alongside the Clubhouse.

Wheelchair path extended from back ramp to front gate, overseen by a local cow.

Pouring the concrete to the front gate ramp access.

Garry Starr checks the new wheelchair ramp into the Clubhouse.

Wheelchair ramp at the rear of the Clubhouse, boxed and poured. (John Ford at rear). June 2004

Jamie Mendham relaxing on the new pathway.

Hank Runeman fitting the new doorway at the top of the weelchair access ramp, at the rear of the Clubhouse.

Rosie and Geoff Body cementing the rails into position.

Garry Starr checks the newly-completed rear wheelchair access ramp.

"Good job the door was wide enough!" (Garry Starr).

John Ford repairs the kitchen ceiling vent.

Marcia adds some colour to Mark's shirt, painting inside the Clubhouse.

Marcia and Mark painting the inside of the Clubhouse... possibly a bit high on the fumes?!?

Date etched into the top of the wheelchair ramp (June 2004), taken January 2007.

Go to Part 1

Sailability and CDSC Construction Projects 2004/05 Pt.1

2011-10-06T01:49:00.029+11:00

Sailability and CDSC Construction Projects - 2004/2005
(Part 1 of 2 galleries)

Many thanks to Timothy Hone for the photos.

Footings before the new boatshed was built. The old shed stood in the foreground.

Julie bravely holds the shed upright.

Don and Bruce putting on the roofing iron. The dismantled pontoon can bee seen rear-right.

First section of the Sailability boatshed opened by the Masonic Lodge (Timothy Hone second-left, Garry Starr in chair on right).

Timothy Hone (right)

Daybreak Rotary assist building the second section of the shed and awning.

The roofing iron goes up on the second section of the shed.

Daybreak Rotary volunteers - thank you!

New 5,000 gallon water tank installed behind the Clubhouse.

Septic system drained and repaired at Clubhouse.

Drilling old septic tanks for new outlets.

Absorption trench for septic system, leading down the hill behind the Clubhouse.

Absorption trench filled with blue metal.

Digging drainage trenches for the new disabled amenities block.

Scott lays new PVC pipes for new disabled amenities block.

Michael Hoadley and Scott Ferguson prepare the slab foundations for the new amenities block.

Tony and Geoff Body await the concrete truck - the slab is ready to be poured.

Pouring the slab. All hands on deck to muck-in and help.

Start of the brick laying for the new amenities block, as the brickies mark out the walls.

The walls go up on the new amenities block.

The brickwork is complete!

Constructing the brick return wall to the Ladies toilets.

Hank Runeman and Ben Hone preparing the roof trusses.

Roof trusses up on the new disabled amenities block.

Hank Runeman trims the facia board.

Adding the roof trusses and facia boards to the disabled amenities block.

Jamie Mendham (in blue) offers some advice for the bagging of the walls.

Part Two - click here

December 2005

2011-10-05T18:18:00.001+11:00

News Archives - 25 December 2005

Merry Xmas and a happy, sailing-filled 2007 from all of us at CDSC.

Timothy Hone has been awarded the Maritime Medal for his contribution to sailing in the Central West, specifically with Sailability, on Wednesday 20 December 2006, in Orange. This is a very prestigious award and we are proud to support Timothy and Sailability at Carcoar Dam. Well deserved Tim!

To celebrate the end of the season, there's a suggested New Year get together and barbecue at the club house on the 14th of January. If we get excited, we could even have a meeting. As always, BYO everything.

As the water level continues to drop and new obstructions raise every day, it is now no longer safe for us to hold organised sailing at Carcoar Dam. However, the fun need not stop. We encourage all our members to continue to enjoy sailing by supporting the local regattas.

The next one is the Fish River SC Regatta to be held at Oberon on 20 & 21 of January. This is normally a very well supported regatta with boats from the Central West and beyond. We will be distributing more details as we have them, or you can contact the Fish River Sailing Club directly on 6336 1562 (email moorheadengineering@bigpond.com ).

For those who missed the last few weeks, we have ordered a few sun shirts and polo shirts with CDSC logo on it, which will cost around $25 each. The sun shirts are high visibility, with SPF50, to ensure safety on the water. The polo shirts are casual wear. If you haven’t yet ordered yours and are interested, let us know. We only have a few spares on each size, so first in best dressed. Literally!

2008 - 2009

2011-10-05T11:58:00.001+11:00

2008 - 2009 News Archives

22nd January 2008
There's obviously not a lot happening out at Carcoar at the moment. They're letting our water out again. Despite all the good rains over the recent months, the water level has actually fallen, from about 15% back to 11%. Not good. Not at all.

Sailability State Championship Regatta being held at Wallerawang (near Lithgow) in February.

5th February 2008
The Laurie Meline Regatta will be held by Griffith SC this weekend (9/10 Feb), held at Lake Cargellico. Contact John Johns 6962 4903 or Bernie Connolly 0428 692 010.

Don't forget: Sailability Feb 23/24 - Access State Champs, Lake Wallace, Lithgow.

10th September 2008
The 2008 Annual General Meeting will be held at the Clubhouse on Sunday 14th September, meeting starting 11.30am, followed by a BBQ lunch. As always, BYO food and drinks. We'll be discussing the forthcoming sailing season, as water levels out at the dam are still dangerously low.

The 2008 Forster Wildcat Regatta will be held over the long weekend of 4-6 October 2008.

28th February 2009
Due to the dangerously-low water levels at the dam, all sailing on Carcoar Dam has been postponed for this current 2008-09 season.

To summarise what was discussed at the last AGM, the club is going into “sleeping” mode, and we are looking at minimizing the costs of keeping the club in the next year, until water levels come up again.

Sailability will continue, being held instead at Ben Chifley Dam (near Bathurst) from 1st March 2009.

2007

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News Archives 2007

1st January 2007
Happy New Year and excellent sailing in 2007 from all of us at Carcoar Dam Sailing Club.

There are alternative venues for local sailing (until the drought breaks. The current water level here is only at 13%). Traveling directions from CDSC to Chifley, Oberon, W'ang and Windamere Dams (& accommodation).

Breaking News: Santa left a sensational 2nd-hand Laser under Mal Kiely's Xmas Tree...

9th January 2007
See you next Sunday (14th) for a Social BYO BBQ and meeting at CDSC, starting at midday.

We've gratefully received some fantastic photos from ex-Commodore (1996) Chris Stevenson in Adelaide! Some new photos from our past (1970's, 1980's & 1990's)
- and a recent photo I bet they didn't want us to see! heh heh

Don't forget the Oberon Regatta is almost upon us - 20/21 January. Directions and accommodation details here.
First race Saturday 11am start, 10am Sunday

Chifley Dam (SC), near Bathurst, are hosting a day on the water, with paddling, canoes, sausage sizzle, on Sunday 28 January. Contact Dave on 02 6331 3862. Directions.

A little birdy whispered there's yet another new Laser now added to our ever-increasing fleet!
Way to go, David Tory!!! Fantastic news. Congratulations!

Andy Holden from W'ang SC suggests the water level for sailing at Windamere Dam is not good at the moment.

We just hit a miserable 12% capacity here at Carcoar Dam as well :(

18th January 2007
Cadia Valley operation has donated $250 to Carcoar Dam Sailing club as part of it’s "Good Onya!" program, which seeks to recognize employees who participate in a significant way to community development by volunteering their personal time to community organizations. Congratulations, Marcia Lac!

We've has also had a 505 donated - received thankfully.

There will be a social sail held at Ben Chifley Dam on Sunday 11th February.

Sunday 25th Feb – possible social sail at Ben Chifley Dam (dependent on show up on the 11th)

The next AGM and CDSC Championship Presentation will be held at the Clubhouse on 1st July 2007.

The dams' water level has dropped to 11%.

24 January 2007
New CDSC Club Shirts and Sailing Shirts are now available for purchase. Contact us to acquire one for yourself.

3rd February 2007
Our next Social Sailing Day will be held at Ben Chifley Dam (near Bathurst) on Sunday 11th February.

The next Sailability and Social Sailing Day will be held at Ben Chifley Dam (near Bathurst) on Sunday 25th February, near the dam wall.

Some of the local schools have asked to access Sailability this school term, so there will be some weekday events at Chifley Dam mid week for the next few weeks. Contact Timothy Hone for more information.

The donated 505 has been sold to a happy buyer. Thanks to Geoff for facilitating the sale.

5th March 2007
With the rain starting to fall again - at last (horaaay!), Carcoar Dam is slowly creeping up from it's lowest point - at just a miserable 8%.

Some of our local Sailability members will be involved with the 2007 NSW Access Dinghy State Championships at Belmont (Lake Macquarie) on 15-16 March. We're taking three 303's.

Please come along one Sunday to the western side of Ben Chifley Dam for a social sail. There's plenty of mud-free water and great launching access too. Blow out those cobwebs and hit the water again - at least until there's enough water again out at Carcoar!

Apologies for not posting updates more recently... i) I've had a few fleeting computer troubles, and ii) there hasn't been much on!

19th March 2007
Sailability will be held this Sunday (25 March) at Ben Chifley Dam.

Please come along this Sunday to the western side of Ben Chifley Dam for a social sail. There's plenty of mud-free water and great launching access too. Blow out those cobwebs and hit the water again - at least until there's enough water again out at Carcoar! (Don't forget there may be a race held at Wallerawang SC as well,)

Bernie's Birthday Bash (mini-regatta) will be held at the Fish River Sailing Club, Oberon, over the weekend of 31 March - 1 April 2007.

Six of our Sailability Central West sailors successfully competed in last weeks NSW Access State Championships held at Belmont NSW. Garry Starr won second place in the hotly-contested 303 2-Man division. Congratulations Garry. And many thanks to Timothy Hone for organizing everything for those who went.

21st March 2007
Timothy Hone celebrates a birthday this Saturday! (I told you never to say random stuff like that to the webmaster, Timothy! muwahahahahaaa! heh heh)

This website has already passed 1,000 hits already! Yay to us!

Don't forget that Daylight Savings Time ends this Sunday morning... turn your clocks back one hour. See you at Chifley Dam on Sunday.

11th April 2007
The water level at Carcoar Dam peaked at just below 10% recently, but has slowly dropped back to under 9.5% again... yes, it's not safe to sail on at the moment, but more rain is sure to fall... stay tuned!

If you know of any boats that might be for sale, or if you might be looking for a boat, please contact us.

24th May 2007
There is a Notice of Race and info for the Keepit Kool Regatta, to be held 9-11 June 2007.

There is also a new section for "Boats For Sale", including a new classified. Contact us if you'd like to advertise something nautical in here for free.

Don't forget our next AGM on 1st July 2007.

17th July 2007
The AGM went well - albeit freezing windy weather that day, with most of us huddled around the pot-belly stove for warmth! Even two emus dropped by for a peek, but didn't stop us from having a lovely day together. The proposed extensions for the boatshed were peeked at as well. Photos to follow shortly - stay tuned!

Sailing Presentations and Trophies for 2006-07 saw...
1st Folkert Janssen
2nd Timothy Hone
3rd Geoff Body

Most Improved Sailor - Mal Kiely

Congratulations to all those who happily participated thoughout last season's albeit short season, and many endless thanks to all those who worked tirelessly behind the scenes to help make our little club a continually happy, positive and friendly place to be.

For the new 2007-08 season, Marcia Lac was unaminously re-elected as Club Commodore, whilst Mal Kiely was elected as Secretary, and Greg Unwin as Treasurer.

We've purchased a 'family boat', a Vagabond, which has been proposed to be called "Fred Collins", in special dedication to one of our long-standing faithful Club members.

The dams' water level has bounced back upto 12.7% from our low of just 8%. Let's hope it just keeps raining!!!

Timothy Hone has sold his Mirror Dinghy, "Red Hot Chilli Pepper" to a local chap who was after a boat for his grandchildren.

15th August 2007
Locally-sailed Laser For Sale.
Things are underway for the Boatshed extensions.
We've just passed the 13.5% water level out at the Dam - at last! Keep it coming!!!

15th October 2007
This season is not looking too hopeful, with low water levels again starting to fall beyond relatively safe sailing limits. Most of our sailing for the rest of the season will be social sailing, as we've decided to unfortunately postpone any Club Championship racing for this season, unless the water level rises rapidly.

The first Sailability event for the year is slated for Sunday 28th October at CDSC - hope to see you there!

The first extension for the boatshed is nearing completion - just the floor to go.
We now have four club boats available for visitors: two Lasers, a Topper, and a Vagabond.

Ash Johnston kindly contributed some scanned sailing photos from 1998-2001, when the dam was FULL!

30th October 2007
Hope to see you at the Wallerawang Regatta, 10 - 11 November 2007

Griffith SC has told us they've had to regretfully postpone their Regatta for this year.

13th November 2007
2007 Wallerawang Regatta:
Ash Johnson came 2nd in the Small Cats Division. John Ford came 3rd in the Nacra Division, Our Commodore, Marcia Lac, came in 3rd in the Laser Division. Well done to everyone who participated.

A few people have asked about our Regatta this year... unfortunately we've had to postpone this event this season, due to a limited sailing area at the Dam at the moment.

5th December 2007
Martin Horder From W'ang SC passes on this invitation to us all:
The Commodore's Cup is on at Wallerawang SC on the 9th of December. Racing will be on both the Saturday and Sunday (8 & 9 Dec), in place of the weekend at Windamere. Races for the weekend will be on handicap starts for each individual boat. People will be camping over; no canteen will be running but a BBQ will be there so bring along some tucker and throw it on.

The CDSC Xmas Party will be held at the Clubhouse on Sunday 16th December, from 11am. BYO everything.

The next Sailability event will be at CDSC on Sunday 16th December also. Prime TV will have a camera crew there, recording a short documentary on the days' activities.

There's also a local Laser for sale.

12th December 2007
The next Sailability day is Sunday 16th December, starting 10am.

Hope to see you at the Xmas Party this Sunday as well, at CDSC from 11am BYO everything.

The current dam water level seems to be stuck just below 13% capacity!

17th December 2007
From all of us here at CDSC, have a fantastic Festive Season, and a positive New Year.
There's some new photos and a short report from Sunday, with the results of the outrageous downpour during Sailability... 2-to-3 inches in 30 minutes!!!

There's also a Laser Radial sail For Sale. (Sold! Thank you!)