Severe storm halted racing at Australian Skiff Championships, damaging boats but no injuries reported.

The Australian Skiff Championships began at Lake Macquarie amid a severe storm that halted Sunday’s racing, damaging boats and breaking masts, though all crews and volunteers evacuated safely. Over 100 skiff crews, including many female skippers, competed in the 16ft and 13ft categories. Racing resumed on Monday with nine races scheduled, weather expected to moderate midweek before strengthening. The Belmont 16s Sailing Club, celebrating over a century of sailing, has upgraded facilities to host major events and aims to inspire future sailors.