Article by Australian Sailing
In 2022, Lee Renfree had a vision of a program that would empower women on the water. The reality would be the KISS Program (Keelboat Introduction to Sailing Savvy), which has seen 80 sailors get involved and counting. For National Volunteers Week, we celebrate Lee’s contribution to getting more women involved in sailing.
Born in a town on the Murray River, water and boats have always been a part of Lee’s life. Her sailing journey began while on holiday in Vanuatu, inspired by none other than Kay Cottee, the first woman to sail solo non-stop around the world.
Since then, she and her husband have sailed over 15,000 nautical miles double-handed with three decades spent at the Royal Geelong Yacht Club. Lee has held leadership roles in clubs across Victoria and Tasmania, including as Commodore of Queenscliff Cruising Yacht Club and is a Life Member of the Cruising Yacht Association of Victoria.
Her most enduring contribution to the sailing community has been the creation of the KISS Program. Launched during her tenure as the first female Commodore in Queenscliff Cruising Yacht Club’s 60-year history, the KISS Program was born out of desire to challenge the status quo and empower women on the water.
“Women are often the silent partner in the ownership of the family yacht,” Lee said. “They very rarely get the most out of this magnificent experience. There is nothing quite like being at the helm in the ocean on a moonlit night or having the satisfaction of navigating a vessel safely into port.”
By providing a space for women to learn, grow and take the helm – literally and figuratively – Lee has helped transform fear into freedom.
“Knowledge is power. If I could share my knowledge, passion and enthusiasm for the sport I love, other women could come on board and get more out of owning a boat. You can’t be what you can’t see – leading by example is my way to go.”
Lee’s drive to volunteer stems from a deep commitment to empowering women through sailing. She’s witnessed firsthand how time on the water can build confidence, spark joy and open up new possibilities. Through her KISS Program – designed by women, for women – Lee is helping change the narrative in what has traditionally been a male-dominated sport.
“Getting more women on the water and involved is what gets me out of bed in the morning. There is nothing like seeing the joy on their faces when they learn a new skill. I see their confidence in their own ability and value as a human being grow and their lives take off in directions they never thought possible,” she said.
For Lee, volunteering is deeply personal and endlessly rewarding. “The most rewarding part of volunteering is knowing that my contribution enriches the lives of others and that I can truly make a difference in the world.”
We commemorate Lee’s impact to steer change, uplift communities and chart a more inclusive future for sailing. Here’s Three Cheers for Lee!
