Interdominion Winners

An extract from the 1st Interdominion programme describes the genesis as “The idea of holding an Inter-Dominion Championship was first discussed by a convivial gathering of NSW and Queensland 12-footer men participating in our Australian Championship Carnival last year in Brisbane (1956), and a small party of New Zealand visitors. A realisation by all parties that the 12-footer Class was a flourishing sport on both sides of the Tasman, evoked such interest on all sides that the proverbial gauntlet was there and then cast down by our NSW representatives.”

The New Zealand visitors were led by Don Brooke, owner of the Q class ‘Nimble’, who were visiting Brisbane on their way to Sydney as crew sailing in the 18 footer world champs. The gauntlet was certainly taken up, with the Kiwis arriving at the first event which took place in January 1957 in Sydney. The racing was on Sydney Harbour and comprised three Q class (including ‘Nimble’), four Gwens from Victoria, two Port Phillip 12’s, six NSW 12’s, five NSW Gwens, a SA Gwen and one Queensland 12.

The Silasec Trophy was donated by Mr. Keith Golding of Sealwall Trading Company, who had an association with the Abbotsford Club, and whose family had continued to provide the winner’s replicas for many years.