As a distinguished name in the Australian marine industry, Windrush Yachts has carved out a unique niche, particularly in the realm of high-performance catamarans. From its foundational acquisition of an iconic design to its current status as a composite specialist, the company embodies a blend of racing heritage and innovative craftsmanship.
The tale of Windrush Yachts is closely intertwined with a legendary Australian catamaran design. The original "Surfcat" Mark I was conceived by the talented duo of Richard and Jay McFarlane in 1976. This 14-foot one-design class catamaran was quickly recognized for its competitive prowess and became a popular choice among sailing enthusiasts.
Windrush Yachts officially entered the scene in 1986 when it acquired the manufacturing rights for the Surfcat, subsequently re-branding it as the Windrush 14. This acquisition marked the true beginning of Windrush Yachts as a significant boat builder, taking on a design that would become synonymous with Australian off-the-beach sailing. While the precise founding year of the company as an independent entity might predate this, 1986 stands as a pivotal moment, signaling their commitment to boat manufacturing. Under the leadership of Managing Director Brett Burvill, who himself has a strong background in motorsport and sailed Windrush catamarans from a young age, the company continued to evolve the design and expand its offerings.
History and Evolution
The evolution of the Windrush 14 itself mirrors the company's early growth. Following the initial Surfcat Mark I in 1976 and the Mark II in 1979, Windrush Yachts introduced the Mark III in 1986 upon acquiring the manufacturing rights. This consistent development helped solidify the Windrush 14's reputation as Australia's most popular one-design catamaran. The design's popularity even extended internationally, with the Windrush 14 being manufactured in the United States as the AMF Trac 14.
Beyond the Windrush 14, the company expanded its expertise into broader composite construction. Windrush Yachts specializes not only in various types of marine craft, including yachts (sail or motor) and catamarans, but also extends its composite fabrication capabilities to motor sport components. This diversification showcases their advanced capabilities in fibreglass and other composite materials, enabling them to undertake a wide range of projects. In 2014, Windrush Yachts achieved recognition as an ISAF (International Sailing Federation) approved builder for the competitive Tornado class catamaran, further cementing their standing in high-performance sailing circles.
(It is important to note that Windrush Yachts, the Australian catamaran builder, is distinct from the 35-meter motor yacht named "Windrush" built by Delta Marine in the United States in 1996.).
Design Philosophy and Identity
Windrush Yachts has built its reputation on producing competitive, durable, and enjoyable catamarans. Their design philosophy centers on in-house development, exemplified by their continuous refinement of iconic models and the creation of new high-performance designs. The brand is particularly known for its commitment to the 'one-design' principles, ensuring fair racing and fostering a strong class community around its popular models.
While the original Surfcat was designed by the McFarlane brothers, Windrush Yachts has cultivated its own design prowess. Managing Director Brett Burvill has been a co-designer on significant modern models, such as the F18 Edge, demonstrating the company's internal expertise and ongoing dedication to cutting-edge performance. Their work in composite construction is a cornerstone of their identity, allowing them to produce boats that are both lightweight and robust, capable of handling demanding racing conditions.
Iconic Models and Legacy
The legacy of Windrush Yachts is largely defined by its series of influential catamaran models:
- Windrush 14 (Surfcat): This remains the company's most iconic and successful model. Originally known as the Surfcat, its acquisition and continued production by Windrush Yachts made it Australia's most popular 'one-design' catamaran, beloved for its competitive nature and accessibility.
- Windrush 12: A smaller, yet equally popular, catamaran within their range, often serving as an entry point for aspiring catamaran sailors.
- Windrush 600 and Windrush 700: Expanding on their catamaran offerings, these models represent larger production catamarans designed for enhanced performance and cruising capabilities, with the Windrush 700 being a 7.35m production vessel.
- F18 Edge: A testament to Windrush Yachts' continued innovation, the F18 Edge is a modern competitive catamaran that has achieved significant racing success, including winning the Formula 18 Australian Championships in 2016 with Brett Burvill and Ryan Duffield at the helm.
- Tornado: As an ISAF-approved builder, Windrush Yachts contributes to the production of the highly competitive Tornado class, showcasing their ability to meet stringent international racing standards.
- Spitfire: This ambitious 12-meter (40-foot) foiling catamaran highlights Windrush Yachts' ventures into cutting-edge technology and high-performance special projects, designed to reach speeds exceeding 40 knots.
The Builder Today
Today, Windrush Yachts operates from its base in O'Connor, Western Australia, under the continued leadership of Managing Director Brett Burvill. The company remains a specialist in composite manufacturing, providing a valuable service across various industries, both domestically and internationally. While their heritage is firmly rooted in catamaran production, their capabilities extend to general composite fabrication and repair, indicating a versatile and robust business model.
Windrush boats continue to appeal to a wide range of sailors, from those seeking the thrill of competitive racing to families looking for accessible and enjoyable off-the-beach sailing. The enduring popularity of models like the Windrush 14 has fostered a strong and active owner community, characterized by dedicated associations and enthusiastic participation in class events. This vibrant community is a testament to the lasting impact and quality of Windrush Yachts' contributions to the marine world.
