With fantastic help from PSA and Australian Sailing the ILCA Oceania Solidarity Program offers one ILCA 4 female sailor (aged between 13 & 16 years on Jan 1st, 2027) from each Australian state, plus representatives from New Zealand and Pacific Island nations, free entry to the Oceania & Australian Open & Youth Championship, a race-ready ILCA 4, a dedicated coach, and team gear.
Since 2023, 28 girls have participated in the program, fostering growth, friendships, and success, including international competition and positive community impact.
Solidarity is about encouraging young female sailors to participate in a world class sailing championship. It is not about winning; the hope is that this experience will ignite a passion for the sport & that they will return to their clubs as enthusiastic ambassadors.
We know from feedback that most of the previous Solidarity participants are still engaged with the ILCA’s. Some have transitioned to the ILCA 6, and most have participated in subsequent State & National events.
If you are aged between 13 & 16 years on Jan 1st, 2026, then you may be eligible for your Australian State Solidarity spot. This is what’s on offer:
- Free entry to the 2026 Oceania & Australian Open & Youth championship in Hobart, including complementary tickets to all functions.
- An Ilca4 charter boat in race condition supplied by Performance Sailcraft Australia.
- Squad coaching for the whole regatta supplied by Australian Sailing.
- A team unform & merchandise supplied by Performance Sailcraft Australia.
- You will join a squad comprising one girl from each Australian State plus one from NZ & a Pacific Island. The total package is worth more than $3000.00.
Successful applicants will fund their own travel & accommodation.
Details of the program, eligibility and selection are in the flyer below and the document Here.
For the 2027 Solidarity Program applicants must submit the online ILCA Oceania Youth Solidarity Program Application Form Here on or before 1 August 2026.
Don’t miss this amazing opportunity to sail in the Sandringham Championships & make loads of new friends.
You can read of the experience of past Solidarity Program participants at the links below.