Australian Sailing appoints first female president

Shevaun Bruland has been elected president of Australian Sailing at the organisation’s annual general meeting, marking the first time a woman has held this position.

Bruland, a member of the Australian Sailing board for five years, has served the last two years as vice president, working alongside outgoing president Alistair Murray. Before joining the Australian Sailing board, she spent five years on the board of Yachting South Australia, including three years as president. Bruland also holds roles with World Sailing, serving on the Equipment Committee since 2020 and on the Safety Commission since 2023. An experienced sailor, she has participated in keelboat and sports boat racing, as well as one-design and offshore racing. In recent years, she has also competed in the kitefoil class.

“I’m honoured to have been elected president of Australian Sailing and incredibly proud to be the first woman to hold the position. This reflects progress that is being made across the entire organisation and aligns with our strategic aspiration to grow the number and engagement of women and girls participating in our sport,” Bruland says.

“I extend my sincerest thanks to outgoing president Alistair Murray for his tenure and his enthusiasm and dedication to the position. Under his presidency, Australian Sailing experienced significant growth in club membership and we will look to continue that momentum. I would also like to extend my thanks to outgoing board director, Jo Keen.”

“I welcome our new board members and look forward to working with the board to ensure that Australian Sailing continues to deliver on our strategic objectives as well as looking to the future to ensure that sailing will be enjoyed by many generations to come.”

Heather McCallum has been elected to the role of vice president. Recently re-elected to the board, McCallum’s appointment brings two women to leadership roles within the organisation. With a background as a company director, former rear commodore of Tasmania’s Derwent Sailing Squadron, and as a chartered accountant, McCallum brings extensive experience to her role.

At the annual general meeting, dual Olympic gold medallist Malcolm Page was also elected to the board, bringing a strong background in high-performance sailing. Sian Harding, who has been instrumental in creating programs and opportunities for women and girls in sailing, was elected as one of the youngest board members, contributing expertise in the development of instructors and coaches.