In Melbourne, there’s the Boxing Day Test between Australia and England, although some of the heat has gone out of the contest with the Ashes series already settled.

To the north, there is the start to the annual Sydney-to-Hobart yacht race, a spectacular show in which a Border man will play his part.

Julian Clements brings years’ experience to his role as a crew member of entrant, the Jazz Player.

It was as a boy of only three that he first took to the water with the Albury Wodonga Yacht Club.

Clearly, he knows what he is doing, as two years ago he took part in his first Sydney to Hobart.

The 20-year-old first plied the sometimes treacherous seas south in the classic two years ago and that experience is sure to put him in good stead.

One thing Mr Clements clearly seems to possess is a clear head, conscious as he is of the need for a clean start to the race.

We applaud Mr Clements’ efforts in taking part in the Sydney-to-Hobart and wish him smooth sailing.

Many Border residents will no doubt be cheering him on in his efforts.