Be part of one of Australia’s most historic and inclusive sailing communities

The Royal Yacht Club of Victoria (RYCV) is searching for an enthusiastic and dedicated Sailing Assistant to join our Sailing Department. Located on Melbourne’s beautiful Hobsons Bay, RYCV is one of Victoria’s oldest and most respected yacht clubs, boasting a proud 173-year history and a vibrant future.

This is a fantastic opportunity for someone passionate about sailing, race management and community engagement, who thrives in a dynamic, hands-on environment where no two days are the same.

Why You’ll Love Working at RYCV

At RYCV, our mission is simple:
To grow participation in sailing, deliver high-quality services to our members and foster a welcoming, inclusive and diverse club culture.

You’ll be joining a friendly and passionate team committed to excellence, integrity and the rich traditions of our club. This role provides an exceptional pathway for individuals looking to build a career in race management, club operations and broader sailing administration.

About the Role

Reporting to the Sailing Manager, the Sailing Assistant plays a key role in supporting our extensive keelboat and off-the-beach (OTB) sailing program. You will assist with the smooth and professional delivery of racing, regattas, programs and events, both on and off the water.

This role is permanent part-time (minimum 16 hours per week) with additional hours during the summer season, including regular weekend and evening work, supporting our sailing program.

Key Responsibilities

On-Water Operations

• Assist with race delivery and act as Race Officer (once qualified).
• Help ensure safe, professional and compliant race management aligned with World Sailing, Australian Sailing, Port Rules and State legislation.
• Support race management for RYCV and partner clubs/classes.
• Uphold all OH&S and risk management requirements during on-water and off-water activities.

Off-Water Coordination

• Support planning, development and ongoing maintenance of OTB and keelboat sailing programs.
• Draft Notices of Race (NOR), Sailing Instructions (SI) and race documentation.
• Coordinate volunteer rosters and communicate with volunteers.
• Manage race entries, handicaps, scoring and results.
• Publish results and updates online and maintain accurate sailing records.
• Liaise with the Sailing Manager on incidents, protests or anomalies.
• Assist with sponsorship opportunities aligned with the club’s brand.

About You

You are someone who brings enthusiasm, reliability and a love of the sailing environment. While race management experience is highly valued, we are equally interested in candidates who are eager to learn and ready to build their capability through training and certification.

You’ll thrive in this role if you:

• Enjoy working both outdoors and in an office and outdoor setting
• Are organised, detail-focused and confident in communicating with sailors, volunteers and members
• Can work flexibly, particularly during busy summer weekends
• Embrace the values of trust, respect, integrity and team spirit
• Have (or are willing to obtain) relevant race management accreditation

What We Offer

• A supportive and friendly team environment
• Opportunities for professional development, including pathways to Regional Race Officer certification
• Varied and rewarding work across one of Victoria’s largest and most active sailing programs
• The chance to be part of an iconic club with deep history and an exciting future

How to Apply

If you’re passionate about sailing and ready to help shape the success of our racing and sailing programs, we’d love to hear from you.

Please submit:

• Your resume
• A short cover letter outlining why you’re the right fit for this role

Send applications to: manager@rycv.asn.au