WA Sailing History
Dutch navigators were the first to set eyes on Western Australian shores in the 17th Century and this set the state's maritime history in motion.
These days, Western Australian waters are known as the arena for world-famous yacht races and sailing is a popular pastime for locals and visitors alike.
There are about 24,000 registered members across 36 clubs, including the Royal Perth Yacht Club (RPYC) - Australia's third oldest yacht club - whose history traces back to 1841, just 12 years after colonisation.
WA Yacht Clubs membership base has included many world renowned yachtsmen including John Bertrand, Peter Gilmour, Iain Murray, Skip Lissiman, Colin Beashel, Jon Sanders, Sebastien Destremau, David Dicks, Noel Robbins, and Rolly Tasker. WA is also credited with running the America's Cup Defence, which was held in Fremantle, in 1987.
Photographs courtesy of the Australian Sailing Museum.