Australia’s most famous maxi Brindabella, a former line honours winner of the Audi Sydney Gold Coast Yacht Race and holder of the 12 year old race record of (27 hrs 35min 43 secs) returns to the start line after a four year absence under new owner Jim Cooney. Designed by Scott Jutson, Brindabella still turns heads today with her sleek lines and elegant sail plan and still holds many Australian east coast race records including the Rolex Sydney Hobart (for conventionally ballasted boat  of 1d, 20h, 46m, 33s set in 1999), the Bird Island Race, Sydney Mooloolaba Yacht Race, Sydney Noumea Race, and the Sydney Wollongong Race.

Cooney purchased Brindabella last year and had her overhauled and refitted. She is once again racing with the CYCA and her crew includes many Brindabella stalwarts who have stayed with the yacht for more than 10 years, as well as a crop of new sailors who share the same passion for this classic Sydney racer. Cooney and his crew are delighted to be back in this race and will be doing their best to keep her at the front of the fleet.