Stars honoured

Belcher’s involvement began with volunteer roles in the International 470 Class from 2000 to 2004, followed by positions with sailing clubs in Australia and overseas.

He joined the Australian Sailing Board in 2014 and served on the One Sailing Governance Reform Steering Committee in 2015, before becoming Australian Sailing President from 2019 to 2022.

During this period, Belcher also held several international positions, including Secretary-General of the Oceania Sailing Federation, membership of the World Sailing Council and Events Committee, and involvement in various World Sailing working parties.

He chaired Australian Sailing’s Olympic Selection Panel for the Paris 2024 Olympic Games and was elected World Sailing Vice-President in 2024, a position he continues to hold.

Johnson has devoted decades to the technical development and integrity of sailing, contributing to international class associations, equipment committees and measurement working parties.

His early administrative roles included Technical Advisor to the America’s Cup Committee in 1986–87, Royal Perth Yacht Club Board Member from 1998 to 2003 and Yachting Association of Western Australia Board Member from 1999 to 2003.

He has also held leadership positions within the Australian Mirror and 420 classes and the international 29er and 49er classes.

Johnson’s extensive international service includes appointments to the International Sailing Federation (ISAF) and World Sailing Equipment Committee, International Measurers Sub-Committee and numerous technical working parties.

A World Sailing International Measurer across the 420, 29er, 49er and Kiteboard classes, Johnson has contributed to the technical delivery of six Olympic Games, from Sydney 2000 through to Tokyo 2020.

He remains involved in the sport as a member of the International Kiteboarding Class Technical Committee.

Australian Sailing President Shevaun Bruland says the appointments acknowledge the enduring contributions both men have made to sailing.

Daniel and Barry have each given an enormous amount to sailing, contributing their expertise, leadership and countless hours of time to strengthen our sport at both a national and international level.

“Their commitment over many years, indeed decades, has helped shape sailing into what it is today, and it is fitting that their contributions are recognised through Australian Sailing Life Membership.”

The appointments recognise two individuals whose sustained commitment has helped advance Australian sailing and strengthen its international standing.

The full list of Australian Sailing Life Members is available here.

sailing.org.au