About Us
History of Sailing Raceboats
Sailing Raceboats is the sole official distributor of RS Sailing boats and parts, and Rooster Sailing apparel and gear in Australia.
Started by Tom Pearce and Richard Furneaux in 2011, Sailing Raceboats grew from humble beginnings, from selling products from Tom’s garage to local sailing clubs in south-east Victoria, to a significant presence in the Australian sailing industry.
The company offers a wide range of RS Sailing boats and parts, including the popular and growing RS Aero and RS Feva classes, the RS Quest and RS Zest training boats, and many more RS classes.
In addition to the RS Sailing range, Sailing Raceboats sells a large range of Rooster Sailing apparel and gear. From warm Aquapro Beanies to comfortable All Purpose Boots, all your layers are covered from head to toe. Rooster’s famous sailing accessories are also available, including mainsheets, control lines, tiller extensions, and bags.
Sailing Raceboats also supplies Art of Racing (AOR) booms for Finns and OK sailing dinghies, as well as World Wide Sailor Optimist parts and hulls.
Check out our online store, or contact us at sales@sailingraceboats.com.au today to learn more and find the right sailing product for you.
Meet The Team
Rhett Gowans
Rhett has been part of the company since 2018 in a variety of roles. First joining as a sales representative, after multiple years in the role, Rhett became the Operations Manager in 2020 and then Managing Director in 2025 – driving the growth of RS Sailing and Rooster in Australia.
Greg Pearce
Greg has served as the administration and accounts manager at Sailing Raceboats since 2022; taking care of day to day office operations and ensuring everything runs smoothly. Although primarily behind-the-scenes, he is always at hand to assist customers and clients with enquiries and troubleshooting. Greg’s favourite RS boat is the RS Zest for its simple yet versatile rigging and unmissable bright yellow sail.
Tyrone Gowans
Joining the team in 2025, Tyrone has sailed and worked with boats for over 20 years. As operations manager his role includes boat and part maintenance, general enquiries, deliveries, and regatta support. Beyond Sailing Raceboats, he is actively involved in dinghy racing and coaching. Tyrone’s favourite RS boat is the RS Aira 22 for its inclusivity, colour, comfort and class.