TO OLD GAFFERS FAR AND WIDE - WELCOME TO OUR WEBSITE.

Its 2009 and it's the 20th Anniversary of NIOGA.

We had a great time at out Annual Regatta in Carrickfergus. The full story will be published on this website shortly. We also signed up 5 new members at the event with more promised. A really good result!

On this website you will get a glimpse into the way of life of Northern Ireland Old Gaffers. The website provides information to members. But it is also a little window into what gaffers do and why. If you are fascinated, why not ask questions or even come and join us?

Events and gatherings are listed on this website. Just hover your cursor on the menu bar above. If you want to come and meet us, or even become a member its so easy. Its not necesary to be a boat owner to be a Member, only an interest in the traditional ways of the sea. This includes celebrating the skills of sailors, their music and their stories.

The principal aim of the Old Gaffers Association is to promote, and further the sailing rig known as "Gaff-rig". This means a four-sided mainsail with a spar supporting the topside of the sail known as the "Gaff". We also are very keen to maintain the traditions of sailing, such as good seamanship, traditional boat building, thus keeping the "old-ways" of doing things very much alive and well.

Enjoy our website. This will be the 20th Anniversary of NIOGA and we intend to make it a memorable year. Please join with us in this celebration.

Write to me with any news or comments.

JIM HETHERINGTON

ccr at oldgaffersassociation.org