A WHITSUNDAYS yacht is taking on the ultimate challenge, on Boxing Day, and competing in the prestigious 2024 Rolex Sydney to Hobart Yacht Race.
Ocean Crusader J-Bird III is a pioneering, zero-emissions racing yacht and is Australia’s most sustainable vessel.
J-Bird’s registered home is Airlie Beach, and it is owned by Annika and Ian Thomson, who are members of the Whitsunday Sailing Club and call the Whitsundays their ‘spiritual home’.
Whitsunday residents Ambi Middleton and Leo Rodriguez are crew members for the great race.
The vessel has already arrived at Cruising Yacht Club Australia (CYCA), Sydney, in preparation for the start of the race.
The inaugural Rolex Sydney Hobart Ocean Sustainability Forum was held at the CYCA, on December 11, 2024, by Annika and Ian, who established the Ocean Crusaders Foundation, in 2010.
The foundation educates people on the need to look after oceans and waterways, whilst cleaning them up through commercial and community events.
“Ocean Crusader J-Bird III has successfully arrived at the Cruising Yacht Club of Australia, in Sydney,” Annika said.
“This marks a significant milestone in our preparation for the prestigious Rolex Sydney to Hobart Yacht Race, set to commence on Boxing Day.
“The delivery south gave us valuable crew training with magnificent sailing conditions.
“On Wednesday, December 11, we proudly hosted our inaugural Rolex Sydney Hobart Ocean Sustainability Forum, at the CYCA.
“The event was a resounding success, attracting attendees who are passionate about ocean sustainability and yachting.”
The forum featured an impressive lineup of speakers, including:
• Conrad Coleman from the Southern Ocean
• Johnny Rodgers – Sales and marketing manager Zhik Australia
• Jackie Le Roux – COO Oroton Group
• Steven Mullie – CEO Eco Boats Australia
• Annika Thomson – Skipper J-Bird Sailing
• Guillio Andrea – COO Clima
• Ian Thomson – Founder/managing director Ocean Crusaders
In conjunction with the Sustainability Forum, Ocean Crusaders also conducted 10 days of cleaning on the Parramatta River and Plane Spotting Bay.
“We removed 4.5 tonnes of rubbish – predominantly polystyrene and plastic water bottles,” Annika said.
“The pure volume of rubbish washed up on the shores was overwhelming.
“As we eagerly count down the days to the race, our local Whitsunday crew members, Ambi Middleton and Leo Rodriguez, will be flying back to Sydney to join the team.
“We will be conducting intensive crew training sessions on Sydney Harbour to ensure we are fully prepared for the challenges ahead.
“We are grateful for the continued support from our community and sponsors, as we strive to promote ocean sustainability through our participation in this iconic race.
“Stay tuned for further updates as we approach race day.”
Follow JBird III on Facebook for live updates of crew life onboard – https://www.facebook.com/JBirdIII
Live tracker (during the race) – https://www.rolexsydneyhobart.com/tracker/
