On behalf of AWA:

"At the last AWA AGM Ian Fox tabled the possibility of running the next National Slalom Titles at Green Island in Cairns. There have been a few hurdles to overcome but it looks like the main one (clearance from the environmental authorities) has been overcome and that means we can now give you at least an outline of the event and the dates to set aside (24-29th June 2013).

The issue with slalom has always been the fact that if it doesn't blow at an event it can be a total waste of everyone's time and you don't get a result. The idea with having the event at Green Island is that at that time of year when everywhere else is cold and windless, Green Island is warm and sunny with consistent 15 – 25 knot winds, which are totally conducive to Slalom sailing, making it a perfect venue to hold an event. We're sure many people will link the event in with a holiday to get out of the cold.

There will be a flyer out soon to let you know all of the finer details, but so far we can tell you this: the event will have both Slalom and Freestyle formats to compete in and everyone who is a member of a state or state affiliated body is welcome to compete. There is a local Windsurfing outfit on the island with local knowledge and support, so all in all it's looking like the “must do” event of the year.

Please spread the word and set aside some time so you are able to come along."

This should be a great event. The wind can get really storng up there and it's pretty flat water in behind the reef. A beautiful spot to sail, especially while escaping from a cold Tassie winter. I'm planning to go, so if others our keen, let us know. Last time I went I flew up with Virgin with two boards, three sails and a stack of gear all covered under 'sports' luggage (no extra cost), got a taxi van to the ferry, carried the gear aboard and that was it - I was on the island!!

More details will follow ...