Hi Queenslanders - I am planning a move to Townsville from Perth next Feb/March. The big question.....do I sell all my gear and try kiting or is there
good sailing to be found in Townsville?
In no real order, what about stingers? (I know ... don't fall in)
How many windsurfers would you find on a good day on the water?
Wind strength? Regularly over 15 knots or greater?
The season for windsurfing - all year or other?
Waves - there is none - yet any good chop or secret spots?
I realise there is no shop there, so broken gear will be replaced via Aussie Post.
The thought of maybe kiting instead is also being considered as I beleive
there is shop, lessons and repairs all in Townsville. Only a thought!
Appreciate any feedback before the greatest sin of my life : selling my great windsurfing gear.
45 year old windsurfer.
I'm also interested in getting some inside info from any one in Townsville.
I'm going there for Christmas and was going to take my kit with me. Is the stinger issue a real concern? Also last time I was there (sans kit) there was a bit of breeze but the esplanade was closed because of crocs.
Would be keen to hook up with the local crew so I can spread the risk of being eaten or stung between some fellow sailors...
Hi there Gaz,I live in Townsville and sail here.The winter weather some years blows 15 - 20 for months on end but for the last couple of years this has not been the case [ this year has been crap].There are about 5 or 6 of us that sail whenever the wind comes up but Kiting seems to have taken over as it is assumed that they can get out in the lighter winds,well soon as a kiter is up and going here I do not have much trouble getting going on my big board and a 7.5 or 8 meter sail.Normally I am on a 115 liter board and a 6.5 or 7 meter.If the wind really kicks in then I am able to use my smaller gear.I do make the effort to travel down to Bowen and stay for a few days as the wind is better and more reliable down there [and a good bunch of guys]for some reason,also the trip up to Green Island or Lake Tinaroo is worth the effort.Yes we do sail all year but in the Summer months we wear stinger protection [quite a sight].I work shift work so am able to get out on the water during the week if it's on rather than have to rely on it blowing on weekends.If you need any info give me a shout cheers Nigel
Thanks Nigel for the detailed reply. My big board here in Perth is just 86 litres and my wave board is only 68 litres. I need only 2 Tushingham sails 5.0 and 6.0 and can sail 13 Knots to 30 Knots no dramas. Any lighter rather be doing something else and any stronger - it's a washing machine.
I have had larger boards and sails in the past, yet they just don't do it for me.
Looks as though may have to take some kite lessons here in Perth,
see if being a Tea Bag surfer is an alternative that puts wind in my sails/kite.
