The 2005 Australian Sailors of the Year were announced and dedicated media and volunteers recognised at the Australian Yachting Awards, held on Saturday night at Park Hyatt Melbourne.
Sponsored by The MINT Organization and Park Hyatt Melbourne, the gala evening was attended by more than 160 guests, who enjoyed an address from Federal Minister for the Arts and Sport, Senator The Hon. Rod Kemp, and a special presentation by Glenn Bourke, CEO of the 2005-2006 Volvo Ocean Race. His speech included dramatic video footage and a preview of the race, which will start on 5 November in Spain and will stopover in Melbourne from approximately 19 January to 12 February 2006.
Awards were presented by 1983 America’s Cup winning skipper John Bertrand AM, 470 Olympic Gold Medallist Tom King OAM and Senator Kemp.
Richard Perini (NSW) was named Male Sailor of the Year, having achieved unprecedented success by winning the 2004 Mumm 30 World Championship and 2005 Farr 40 World Championship and holding the titles simultaneously. The current Australian Farr 40 Champion, Richard achieved numerous other podium finishes. He also contributes to youth sailing and the operation of the Australian and International Farr 40 Associations.
