Since its inception, Kitestock has primarily been about having a weekend away from Perth for a bunch of kiters to get together socialize and have a kite together. As you are all aware, the weather forecast for Kitestock 2011 is not looking ideal for a weekend of kiting.

Kitestock 2011 will still go ahead but obviously the programme of events we have planned will be amended to reflect the prevailing weather conditions. We are trying to come up with a series of alternative events to keep everyone entertained, despite the weather forecast. We will all need to be 'fluid' in our expectations and what is delivered.

Kitestock 2011 might just be an opportunity to catch up & chat with crew you haven't seen since last year. It may be the year we have the inaugural beach Olympics to replace the Epic Downwinder; it may be the year of the inaugural KS beach cricket competition - who knows right now. Kiters in Geraldton have posted that wind conditions aren't always as forecast – who knows – we might just get some onshore winds. The swell is up, so if you surf, make sure you bring your surf board(s).

Given that many of those attending have arranged leave from work, taken the kids out of school for a day or two, and booked accommodation, it makes it too complicated to postpone the event. Besides, there's no guarantee that we'd get wind if we put it off to any other weekend. All of the preparations including catering etc have been in place for some time now, and if we were to postpone or cancel, WAKSA would forfeit what we have paid. There are no refunds should someone chose to withdraw at this late stage.

The organising committee is as disappointed and frustrated as everyone on this forum – in fact with the work that has gone into pulling Kitestock together this year, we are absolutely gutted at the predicted forecast. However, Kitestock is about socializing with fellow kiters. Just because we might not have the wind we want, doesn't mean we can't have a good time.

We encourage everyone who has registered to come to Dongara this weekend and have a really good weekend away.

Kitestock – it's about good crew, good food, and good times.

The WAKSA Crew