I am an American student currently taking classes at the University of Sydney through June. I am an avid (albeit only moderately skilled) sailor and windsurfer. Much of the reason I came to study in Sydney involves windsport, but sadly the USyd sailing clubs have recently disbanded, leaving me at a loss.
I'm reaching out here in hopes that you all might be able to help point me in the right direction in terms of windsurfing groups for college-aged students. I currently have no gear, so I'd love any information regarding gear rental/purchase, storage, and the best spots to access via public transit.
My research has led me to believe that Kyeemagh is most likely the best place to set up shop, all things considered. I'm not sure what variety of gear I'll need for the conditions (I'm roughly 2m, 86kg). Ideally I'd like to spend about $300-400 on gear as I'll only be using it sparingly, and I'm living on a student budget. I've been told to check gumtree, but I'm hoping someone on these forums is willing to sell/rent some gear for the several months that I am here.
You should be able to find some second hand gear on gumtree or seabreeze, if you buy a set then remember you can always sell it afterwards, so the net cost isn't that high.
Not aware of any uni windsurfing clubs, I am sure they have sailing clubs however. If you sail at the usual spots (like Kyeemagh) then there are usually a bunch of people there.
The gear isn't the issue, you really need a car lol!
Good choice of season for studying. You have missed the strongest wind season (Aug/Sept for late winter westerlies and Nov/Dec for northeasterly seabreezes) so you will be free to hit the books. That said, the NE still blows, just weaker, until Easter and there are southerlies as well, but April/May is the worst period for sailing in the whole year. Nice sunny warm autumn days do not generate good wind.
Another option is Dobroyd Aquatic Club, DAC. It is a inner city club at Rodd point not far from uni. They have some gear in the club that may be able to be accessed. It is a super passionate club that races pretty much all year. Also they have Learn to sail courses for your friends.
These are the guys that are responsible for bringing the Raceboard worlds to Australia last November.
