A review of an Etchells mould created by the Australian Association in 2011 is underway, following queries about the symmetry of the mould, along with the laminating schedule used to create the actual vessels.

Over its 50-year history the Etchells Class has regularly reviewed itself to ensure uniformity across the three licensed builders (one each in the UK, Canada and Australia).

All items that require a modification to the Class Rules (say electric bilge pumps), go through the Technical Committee for analysis before being voted on by the Governors.

The Class Measurer also undertakes reviews at World Championships, and liaises with the builders throughout the year, including factory visits.

In 2011, the Australian Association produced a new mould from scans of boats produced by all three existing moulds. This was approved after being re-measured on completion, and it has been creating new Etchells ever since from its home at Innovation Composites in Nowra on the NSW South Coast.

But queries about the symmetry of this mould (and therefore its boats), have prompted the Governors to approve scans of two boats from each of the three builders to form the basis of an audit of the fleet.

This will include the Chief Measurer, Bill Abbott, attending the Australian manufacturer using a single set of templates to establish if any variances exist, in addition to investigating the laminate issue.

Says Mark Roberts, President of the International Etchells Class of Australia: “The results of the review will be delivered to the Governors. At that time, any rectification works that may be required will be evaluated, put into place, and announced to the sailing public.”

Australian teams blitzed the field at the 2019 Etchells World Championship in Corpus Christi, Texas, leading to speculation about Australian-built boats’ speed advantage. Australia’s Iain Murray with Colin Beashel and Richard Allanson topped the 37-boat fleet.