The Derwent Sailing Squadron (DSS), under the name of the Domain Sailing Squadron, was formed in February 1906 by a small group of yachtsmen who wanted to sail boats that were smaller and more affordable than those in vogue at the time. Not long after, the name was changed to the Derwent Sailing Squadron.
The original meetings of the DSS were held in an old whaling vessel, the Derwent Hunter. After being destroyed by fire in 1907, it was to be nearly 50 years before the Squadron was to find another permanent home. Meetings were held in a variety of taverns around Hobart before eventually settling in the old RSL building in Hobart’s Macquarie St.
In 1953 the DSS moved to its present location, after leasing Cheverton’s Jetty from the Cheverton family. Soon after, the club purchased the jetty outright from the Chevertons, as well as leasing the surrounding foreshore land from the Hobart City Council. In 1965, the newly built clubhouse was officially opened by His Excellency the Governor Lieutenant General Sir Charles Gairdner. 1965 was a notable year in the club’s history, as only a month later the new slipway, jetty, haul out, yacht storage and launching ramp were also officially opened.
The Graham Blackwood Marina of 102 berths was opened in 1985, with a further 28 berths being added in 1987. In 2016 the Roy Barkas Marina Extension was opened with 136 state of the art floating berths.
Since the turn of the century, the DSS has completed a number of major projects, including building a floating jetty for Sailability, replacing one of its existing jetties, constructing a new trailer boat launching ramp, and completing major bar and clubhouse refurbishments. The club has continually looked to the future, with a general committee and staff dedicated to improving the on-water and clubhouse experience for current members and future generations.
Contact Info
Address:
23 Marieville Esplanade, Sandy Bay TAS 7005, Australia
Phone: 61 3 6223 1977
Email: manager@dssinc.org.au
Website: dssinc.org.au
