An audience of more than 150 sat spellbound as local sailor Nathan Outteridge was interviewed on stage at Wangi RSL Club as part of a recent charity fundraiser.
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The Olympic gold medal winner and America's Cup skipper spoke of his rise through the ranks, from junior competitor on Lake Macquarie to elite racer in world sailing.
Outteridge was interviewed by Newcastle Herald journalist and Wangi Wangi resident Scott Bevan.
The event was staged by Wangi Lions Club and raised about $9000 for Hunter farming families impacted by the drought. Tickets to the evening cost $30.
RSL Club operations manager Wayne Izzard said it was a remarkably attentive room.
"From the minute Nathan started to talk with Scott, nobody got up. Nobody moved. He had them captivated," Mr Izzard said.
Lion David Ransom said the audience featured a mix of ages, but all had gathered to hear the local boy's story, and to do their bit to help struggling Hunter farming families.
"The extraordinary thing about it was Nathan and Scott held the room entranced for almost two hours, with just one break," Mr Ransom said.
"Nathan gave us a revealing look at a sport that a lot of people participate in, but aren't aware of what's involved in the sport at the Olympic level."
It was also a story about the importance of family, Mr Ransom said, and how sailing was such an intrinsic part of the lives of Nathan's siblings Haylee and Beau, and parents Tony and Jasmine.
"They really are an extraordinary family, and Wangi Wangi is so proud to have them," he said.
Lions sold raffle tickets on the night.
The major prize of three nights' accommodation for two people on Hamilton Island, valued at $1750, was won by Margaret Cholipski, of Coal Point.
Lion Simon Bertaglia generously donated money to cover Ms Cholipski's airfares for the holiday.
The event was the first drought-relief fundraiser in the 'Making of a Champion' series planned by the Lions club.