Commodore Neville Bilney and Ballarat City councillor Sam McIntosh led the season opening day ceremony as members and visiting sailors basked in ideal spring conditions at Lake Wendouree.

Bilney said the 141-year-old club had made considerable progress in the past few years, with membership doubling and the redevelopment of its base into a successful restaurant and community hub.

He said the club had also introduced 500 people to the sport over the past year.

The opening day also featured the presentation of a club life membership to Charlie Weatherly, Christening of two boats –  sailability program craft “Bert” and “The Great Go Getter” for club member David Wilson –  and a ribbon cutting to open the new “Commodore’s Lounge”.

Sovereign Hill redcoat Matthew Bourke fired off a muscat to signal the beginning of the 2016-17 season and pace the way for an official sail past.