In one of the most destructive – and expensive – nights in Sydney to Hobart history, wild winds and torrid conditions have ripped the famous race apart, causing widespread damage and ending the race hopes of numerous favourites.

A strong south-westerly change would move across Bass Strait early on Dec 27 morning, potentially bringing showers, lightning, thunder, and waves of up to 4m. Read more at straitstimes.com.

Powerhouse supermaxi Comanche lived up to its nickname the “Beast” on the opening day of the 2024 Rolex Sydney to Hobart yacht race as it charged toward Tasmania threatening to break its own race record.

Reigning line honours champion LawConnect has led the Sydney to Hobart fleet out of the Sydney Heads as the 79th running of the bluewater classic began on Boxing Day. But a furling issue meant her lead was short-lived, with rival supermaxi Master Lock Comanche powering ahead and heading down the NSW coast in a blustery north-easterly.

LawConnect, which won line honours last year, was first past the turning mark in Australia’s premier yachting event but ran into sail issues.

Race favourites Master Lock Comanche and LawConnect took the early lead in the 79th running of the Sydney to Hobart yacht race, as the supermaxis led the 104 boats out into the South Pacific.

LawConnect was first out of the Heads, but a furling issue allowed line honours rival Comanche to grab the lead, while last year’s overall winner, Alive, was forced to retire just three hours into the race.