Overview
The Kingfisher Night Series is a long-standing yacht racing series held on Moreton Bay, Queensland, with a unique focus on night sailing. Established in 1989 by experienced sailors from multiple yacht clubs, the series was developed to provide structured night racing opportunities for local skippers and crews seeking to build skills in variable weather and nighttime conditions.
Founding Clubs and History
The series was initiated by members of the Queensland Cruising Yacht Club (QCYC, Shorncliffe), Royal Queensland Yacht Squadron (RQYS, Manly), Wynnum Manly Yacht Club (WMYC, Manly), and Moreton Bay Boat Club (MBBC, Scarborough). These clubs recognised the need for a dedicated series of night races to support safe sailing practices and offer practical experience navigating Moreton Bay after dark.
Purpose
- Build night sailing proficiency.
- Promote safe practices, including marine radio communication.
- Provide experience in navigating shipping channels and interacting with commercial traffic.
- Offer race preparation for offshore events such as the Gladstone Ports Corporation Brisbane to Gladstone Yacht Race.
Race Format
The Kingfisher Night Series generally consists of four races, each typically covering approximately 35 nm and starting at . This timing ensures that the majority of the fleet sails into the night, offering valuable experience in extended hours and low-light conditions.
There is no time limit, allowing all vessels, regardless of speed, to finish and self-record their time if they arrive after race officials have stood down.
Sponsorship
The series has been proudly sponsored by Kingfisher Bay Resort, K’gari, since its inception.
