As part of National Careers Week, Australian Sailing are spotlighting the careers of those in the sailing community. Craig Evans is the Chief Executive Officer of Fremantle Sailing Club – one of Australia’s largest and most dynamic sailing clubs.
Craig was immersed in boating from a young age. “I was born into a boating family. Water skiing and speedboat racing were our family’s weekends from as early as I can remember,” he said.
His introduction to sailing came by chance when his family bought a small dinghy – originally intended for snorkeling – that turned out to be a Holdfast Trainer sailing boat. “We had no idea about sailing,” Craig said, “but a neighbour helped us rig it, and we headed out for a quick sail. I was instantly hooked.”
That first unexpected outing sparked a lifelong love of sailing. He joined Largs Bay Sailing Club and began racing and training every weekend. His parents also got involved, volunteering at the club. “From a very young age, I decided that I wanted to sail on big boats and compete in a Sydney to Hobart Yacht Race one day.”
Craig eventually made that dream a reality – nine times. Among his highlights was a win in 2000 aboard SAP Ausmaid, but the journey wasn’t always smooth sailing.
His first Sydney to Hobart in 1993 became one of the race’s toughest years. “While sitting at the navigation station, with the yacht upside down in Bass Strait at 3am, I did question my choices,” he admits. The boat was badly damaged, but the crew’s resolve only grew stronger. “Preparation, resilience and determination to do better are key in offshore racing – and life in general.
That drive to improve extended beyond racing. Craig took every opportunity to learn, completing courses in navigation, meteorology, radio and ocean theory. Eventually, he began to give back to the sport in leadership and governance roles, serving on various committees and boards. He also was a board member of the Boating Industry Association and the Marina Industries Association.
“Giving back to the sport was important to me,” he said. Craig had a couple of excellent mentors that introduced him to on-water judging in match racing events and eventually became the Chair of the Protest Committee at the Cruising Yacht Club of South Australia. He was involved in that committee for over 15 years.
While at the Cruising Yacht Club of South Australia, a new opportunity emerged. “I was fully invested in a marina development project when the General Manager position became available. It felt like the right move.” His career in club management took off from there, leading him to executive roles at major clubs across Australia. After several years in NSW and SA, Craig eventually took the helm as CEO of Fremantle Sailing Club.
Now three years into the role, Craig oversees the largest yacht club footprint and marina facility in Australia, managing over 3,500 members and a team of more than 100 staff.
“My job involves working closely with the board, developing long-term strategy, driving revenue, managing expenses and representing the club publicly. I enjoy the challenges and opportunities that the role presents – and the constant changes,” he said.
Reflecting on his journey, Craig encourages others to consider a career in sailing or sport management. “Go for it! There are plenty of opportunities out there, and working in an area you’re passionate about is very rewarding. It’s not always easy – it can be a balancing act – but it’s never boring. You have a real opportunity to make your mark in our industry.”
Craig boasts that sailing clubs are vibrant, multifaceted organisations offering a range of roles for those looking. “From casual sailing instructors to senior management, there are career opportunities and progression. Our Harbour Master at Fremantle started as a casual sailing instructor. If you’re passionate about boating and enjoy working with people, it’s definitely worth exploring.”
