Fleurieu Peninsula

Summer pop up ‘The Sailing Club’ opens in Goolwa today with food, wine, and nautical-inspired fun

By Kelly Noble

Posted on December 27, 2024

DJ’s, gourmet food and beverage line up, public transport bus timetable, relaxing times and no clean-up for you to do at home!

Get ready to hoist the mainsail and set course for Goolwa this summer, as The Sailing Club returns to the Fleurieu Peninsula for another season of sun-drenched festivities. Established by Adelaide hospitality entrepreneur Sam Worrall-Thompson, this popular pop-up event will drop anchor at the Goolwa Regatta Yacht Club from today, 27 December 2024 to 4 January 2025.

After successful stints in Port Elliot, Victor Harbor, and most recently Robe, The Sailing Club’s new Goolwa location is ready to share its unique blend of coastal charm and South Australian hospitality with a new audience. “The Sailing Club last docked in Robe for the 2023/2024 season but it is now time to give Goolwa the opportunity to experience what this annual festival has to offer,” says Worrall-Thompson.

“Each year we have been overwhelmed by the level of community support for The Sailing Club. We initially set out to deliver an all-inclusive event that caters to everyone young and old as well as a festival that transitions seamlessly from day to night. I believe that we’ve held true to that since we first established the event back in 2016.”

“Goolwa is a go-to destination for the summer holidays. It’s easily accessible from Hindmarsh Island, Middleton, Port Elliot and even Victor Harbor. The Goolwa Regatta Yacht Club is the perfect location for anyone looking to bring in the New Year. Nothing screams holiday season more than relaxing with good food, drinks, music, friends and family. And bonus – we’ll even do the clean-up for you.”

This season the Sailing Club promises a feast for the senses, with a diverse menu of fresh, summer-inspired coastal cuisine and an extensive selection of cocktails and beverages to quench your thirst. As the sun sets, the atmosphere will transition to a more sophisticated vibe, culminating in exclusive ticketed events on New Year’s Eve. A dedicated VIP area will host these special celebrations, offering guests a premium experience with Champagne Hour packages, delectable roaming canapés, and curated drinks packages. And as the clock strikes midnight, revellers will be treated to a breathtaking display of fireworks illuminating the night sky over Goolwa, which have been sponsored this year by The Sailing Club.

The pop up destination welcomes families and pets, promising a relaxed and enjoyable atmosphere for everyone. A detailed schedule of daily activities and events will be released soon. So, prepare to embark on a memorable summer adventure as The Sailing Club sails into Goolwa, bringing with it a wave of fun, food, and festivities.