It may receive none of the attention given to Sydney Harbour, but Lake Burley Griffin is proving itself as a worthy training ground for an increasing number of young sailors.
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The Canberra Yacht Club's sailing school is set to have more than 1000 students take a course this season, an expected bump up of more than 5 per cent.
Sailing school manager Steve Hart said that followed a rise of about 10 per cent last season, including up to 600 tackers – those aged seven to 11 – starting out on the water.
"Last year we were the biggest tackers centre in Australia," he said.
"We've got a really great learning location, flat water, gentle breezes, that makes it safe, and we've got modern, up to date equipment."
He said interest had been spurred by the Australian's team incredible performance at the last Olympics in London, where it took home three gold medals and one silver in the best haul of any nation.
But he said the tackers program was the greatest immediate boost to numbers as it brought the sport into line with other sports in encouraging early participation. The toppers program then follows for those 12 to 17.
"We as a national program have never got that young [7-11] before," he said.
Tackers take to the water in a 2.4-metre long [8-foot] plastic dinghy with room for two children, with courses starting with games-based fun then rising to tricks and techniques and the level three, "Sailing Fast".
Topper boats were 3.4 metres [11 foot] long and after a week with an in-boat partner are sailed on their own.
Fibreglass boats, for those interested in extra speed and racing, cost $4000-$5000 new but the club had six to share around.
"We try and keep them in our boats as long as you can," Mr Hart said.
"We try to keep it fun for longer."
Mr Hart said the sailing school ran throughout the September to April season, with the school holiday program offering places for up to 60 kids each week across 11 weeks, and weekend courses during the school semester.
The Canberra Yacht Club hosts the NS14 National Championships – involving the Australian-designed NS14 4.3-metre dinghies – from December 28 to January 1, and the Australian Flying Fifteen Championship – using the 6.1-metre two-person keelboats – from January 3-8.
