THE company behind last year’s M32 yacht racing off Bathers Beach is looking at putting in a bid to host the event in Fremantle again.

Recently representatives from High Aspect International met with traders from Fishing Boat Harbour and staff from the local council, chamber of commerce and BID to discuss a potential bid.

Chamber CEO Olwyn Williams told the Herald a feasibility study was being put together to test out whether the event would work in Freo again.

• Fishing Boat Harbour traders and council staff discuss the M32 sailing bid with representatives from organisers High Aspect International. Photo by Chris Gosfield

“The M32 series is a lot different to other yachting events we have experienced in Fremantle,” she said.

“It is in your face, you can be at the beach or along the groyne and experience a fast-paced, action-packed race series.

“But the numbers have to add up to get these events in place—the visitors, cost of delivery, sponsors, and of course, the viewing public.”

Ms Williams said it would be great for Fremantle if the range of events it could offer visitors was expanded.

She said the city had also benefited from the international coverage last year’s event attracted.

One trader optimistic about the event’s future in Fremantle is Joanna Robertson, a keen sailor, whose Kidogo art gallery overlooked the racing off Bathers Beach last year.

“I think the time to do this has never been so good—Fremantle now has better accommodation on other than ever, with the new Quest, upgraded Esplanade and Be Apartments and lots of residents’ B&Bs and AirBnBs,” she told the Herald.

“Fremantle is reputably the windiest city in the world yet this reputation has never been really capitalised on.”

Ms Robertson says she wants the city to try and attract other yacht racing events as well.

“The attractive bay, heritage setting and unique services of Fremantle city are perfect for supplying a fantastic experience to international visitors,” she said.

by STEVE GRANT