Sydney to Hobart Yacht Race Set for Cold, Wet, and Bumpy Conditions Amid Cyclone and Heat Warnings in Australia
This year’s Sydney to Hobart yacht race is expected to have 129 starters. The Bureau of Meteorology forecasts strong southerly winds of up to 25 knots after leaving Sydney Heads on Boxing Day, with conditions anticipated to be cold, wet, and bumpy. Winds should slacken along the NSW and Tasmanian coasts on Saturday and Sunday; however, the race will remain upwind, and a tight finish is expected, making a race record unlikely.
A minute’s silence was observed for sailors Nick Smith and Roy Quaden, who died aboard separate yachts in 2024. Additionally, 15 yachts will scatter rose petals off Bondi Beach in memory of the 15 lives lost during the Bondi terror attack.
Tropical Cyclone Grant, a category 1 storm, is currently passing near the Cocos Islands, bringing heavy rain, storms, and strong winds as it moves west. Western Australia faces extreme heat, with Perth expected to reach 40°C and an extreme fire danger warning in the southwest region; this heat is predicted to ease by Friday. Meanwhile, a flood watch remains in place for much of northern Australia. Brisbane is forecasted to reach 33°C, Darwin could see up to 50mm of rainfall, Melbourne is expected around 17°C, and Hobart may see 15°C with possible hail.
