Gladstone’s very own Mayor Matt Burnett is walking the talk in promoting the 75th Brisbane to Gladstone Yacht Race this year by jumping aboard the vessel Skimmer, having already qualified for the event, despite confessing he’s “literally still learning the ropes”.
“Skimmer will have a crew of about six to eight, mostly experienced, and then me…” Cr Burnett said.
“It should go pretty well we hope.
“I’ve done some practice events right up to it and qualified a few weeks ago with the Surf to City from the Gold Coast to Brisbane – that’s an overnight race.
“So I’m qualified… I don’t know that I’m really qualified but I’ll certainly give it a go.”
Cr Burnett said there’s no better way to promote the event than be a part of it, but it has required some prep work.
“After the Surf to City I realised I wasn’t as fit as I needed to be… so I’ve been trying to eat better and spend a little bit more time in the gym,” Cr Burnett said.
“Got a bit to go yet but we’ll get there and hopefully by Good Friday we’re ready to race.”
Skimmer at the 74th Brisbane to Gladstone Yacht Race start line 2022. Sarah Motherwell Photography
Cr Burnett said owners Michelle and David Hamilton, the crew and himself are hoping to be mid-fleet, “not expecting to cross the finish line first by any stretch of the imagination”, but they’re going to give it 110 per cent.
“We’re really looking forward to the team from Council – of course the deputy mayor and councillors welcoming us to Gladstone, as is the tradition, with a medallion and a carton of beer,” Cr Burnett said.
“Can’t wait to see Gladstone Harbour let me tell you.”