Our Legacy, Philosophy, and Commitment to Quality
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Rolly Tasker?
Rolly Tasker is one of Australia's most successful sailors and greatest sportsperson. Born in 1926 in Western Australia, Rolly began sailing at an early age and built his first dinghy at just 10 years old. From that moment, sailing became his lifelong passion. He designed and built many racing yachts and mastered the craft of sailmaking.
Rolly’s racing career is legendary. He was the Australian Dinghy Champion 10 times and won over 2000 races, including Australia’s first Olympic sailing medal at the 1956 Olympic Games in Melbourne, where he earned a Silver Medal in a Sharpie. Two years later, he claimed his first World Sailing Championship Medal in a Flying Dutchman. Rolly also designed the sails for Australia’s first America’s Cup challenge in 1962 when he joined the ‘Gretel’ team.
From 1969 to 1985, Rolly dominated ocean racing in WA with his five self-built yachts, all named ‘Siska’. His achievements included winning the Queen Victoria Cup off Cowes, England, and securing 1st place in the A Division of the tragic 1979 Fastnet Race, where 19 crew members of other yachts lost their lives. He also won numerous long-distance ocean races, including the 1979 Parmela Yacht Race from Plymouth, England, to Fremantle, Australia.
Rolly was inducted into the WA Hall of Champions in 1986, the Australian Sports Hall of Fame in 1996, and was awarded a Member of the Order of Australia in 2006 for his services to sailing. In 2017, he was honoured with induction into Australia’s Sports Hall of Fame for his outstanding contributions to sailing.
Over his long career, Rolly Tasker built and operated sail lofts in Australia, Hong Kong, France, the USA and Phuket, Thailand, where the business still operates and exports sails to 61 countries.
Sadly, Rolly passed away in 2012, but his legacy endures. Today, the Phuket loft is the largest sail loft in the Southern Hemisphere manufacturing high quality and performance sails for sailors based across the globe.
Learn more about Rolly’s legacy on our Heritage page.
Where is Rolly Tasker Sails based in Australia?
Rolly Tasker Sails Australia & New Zealand is proudly based in Sydney, Australia and is fully Australian owned with representatives across Australia to service our clients needs.
Like all modern sailmakers, we operate in a global economy, sourcing materials worldwide and using the most advanced manufacturing techniques.
Who is in the team?
Our team at Rolly Tasker Sails Australia & New Zealand combines elite racing skills with extensive cruising experience, offering unmatched expertise to provide you with the best professional advice for your new sail or sail wardrobe.
With thousands of blue-water miles logged, we've navigated some of the world’s most challenging waters. Our journey includes two America's Cup campaigns, multiple line honours and handicap wins in the legendary Sydney to Hobart, and participation in the prestigious Volvo Round the World Ocean Race. We've also competed across five seasons of F50 Foiling Catamarans, 18 Footers, and Etchells, securing over 10 Australian and World sailing titles. Whether you're seeking expert advice for cruising or racing sails, our experience guarantees superior guidance every time.
Check out the full team here.
How can we offer Quality Sails at Lower Prices?
There are several reasons why you can get high-quality sails from Rolly Tasker Sails Australia & New Zealand at a great price.
Firstly, due to our high production volume, Rolly Tasker Sails has significant buying power, allowing us to procure the best cloth and accessories at competitive prices compared to smaller manufacturers or local lofts. We also produce a large portion of our own hardware through our sister company, Pacific Nylon Plastics.
As the southern hemisphere’s largest sail loft, we have an efficient, high-output operation, delivering top-quality products at competitive prices. Our commitment to sustainable practices, including a low-emission sail loft, cutting-edge SMAR Azure software for maximum production efficiency, and auto-nesting software to minimize fabric waste, further helps to keep costs down.
Rolly Tasker Sails has also introduced a range of prefabricated ‘stock sails’ which offer exceptional value compared to one-design sails. These sails are cost-effective because they only need to be designed once, materials can be pre-ordered in large quantities, and they can be produced during low-demand periods.
The result? World-class sails at a fraction of the price. Same materials, better value.
How can I be Assured I’m getting a Quality Product?
As Australia’s leading distributor of Rolly Tasker Sails for 25 years, we manage your sail order from initial consultation through to design, manufacture, and delivery. We have extensive experience with a wide range of yachts, from day boats to offshore racers, and can recommend the perfect sail wardrobe for you.
At every step, we’ll consult with you to select the right materials, weight, shape, and design for your new sail. All our sails come with a full warranty, giving you peace of mind that you're investing in top-quality craftsmanship backed by industry-leading support.
Are you putting Australian Sailmakers out of Business by using Offshore Factories?
Rolly Tasker Sails is Australian at its core and Rolly Tasker Sails Australia & New Zealand is also 100% Australian owned and operated with a support network all around Australia.
Nearly every sailmaker, even the largest Australian lofts, relies on offshore production in some form. Modern sail manufacturing requires specialized equipment, controlled environments, and high-tech processes that aren’t readily available at scale in Australia.
At Rolly Tasker Sails Australia & New Zealand, our sails are designed by Australian professionals for Australian sailors and tested in Australian conditions. We maintain high-skill jobs like sail design, performance tuning and customer support here in Australia, ensuring that local expertise drives every sail we produce.
Materials
Frequently Asked Questions
Which Sailcloth Brands does Rolly Tasker Sails use?
We only use premium sailcloth from the world’s leading manufacturers such as Bainbridge, Dimension-Polyant, Contender Sailcloth, and Challenge Sailcloth. These brands are trusted by elite racing and cruising yachts globally for their quality, performance, and durability.
Do Rolly Tasker Sails Use "Budget" or "Factory Second" Materials?
No, we do not. Unlike many direct-from-factory operations, every sail we produce uses first-run, premium sailcloth from trusted global suppliers. We take pride in our high standards, and our partnerships with Dimension-Polyant, Contender, Bainbridge and Challenge to ensure that every sail is built to last. Every sail we craft is made from first-grade fabrics that meet the rigorous demands of both racing programs and offshore cruising.
How does Rolly Tasker Sails choose Sailcloth for each Project?
We select the most suitable sailcloth for each project based on several important factors:
- Performance Needs – Whether you’re racing or cruising, we match the materials to your boat's expected loads and sailing conditions.
- Durability – We prioritize longevity and endurance without compromising performance.
- Shape Retention – For membrane sails and laminates, we choose materials that maintain their designed shape over time.
- Budget and Value – We ensure you receive the best possible performance within your budget.
We don’t limit ourselves to a single brand or material; we choose the best fabric for your specific requirements.
How do I Compare a Proprietary Fabric with what Rolly Tasker Sails has Quoted?
Some sailmakers use “proprietary” fabrics, but often these are simply private-label versions of widely available materials. To ensure you're comparing apples to apples, here are some questions to ask:
- Who manufactures the fabric? Many proprietary fabrics are rebranded versions of established materials.
- What is the fiber composition? Is it made from known materials like Aramid, polyester, dacron, or UHMWPE (e.g., Dyneema/Spectra)?
- Is there independent testing? Leading fabric manufacturers like Dimension-Polyant, Contender, and Challenge provide detailed performance data on stretch, UV resistance, and durability.
- What is the weight and layer structure? These affect performance and lifespan.
We offer full transparency on the materials we use, so you always know exactly what you're getting - no marketing fluff, just high-performance sailcloth tested in real-world conditions.
Manufacturing & Ordering
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I get Accurate Measurements to Order my New Sails?
You have three easy options:
- Our database – We’ve built a comprehensive database of yacht rig and sail dimensions over the years. We can often use these to design your sails with minimal input from you.
- Your measurements – We have some great, easy-to-use measurement forms to make the process risk-free and fun.
- On-site measurement – If you're located in the Sydney basin, we may be able to personally measure your boat at no extra charge. We also have a team of professionals across Australia who may be able to assist.
How Do I Get My Sails Altered or Repaired?
We understand that repairs or alterations may be necessary. Here’s how we handle them:
- NSW - We have our own repair loft.
- Interstate - We have a nationwide network of sail lofts across Australia.
- International - Our Rolly Tasker Sails dealers around the world also offer expert repair and alteration services.
At Rolly Tasker Sails Australia & New Zealand, we support you throughout the entire lifespan of your sails.
What happens if there's a Manufacturing Error?
If a manufacturing error occurs, we’ll build a replacement sail for you. We stand by our products and ensure that no issues are fixed but replaced, meeting your exact specifications.
What if there's a Mistake in my Measurements?
Our process includes quality checks. If we find any discrepancies in your measurements (e.g., unusual boom angle), we’ll reach out to clarify and correct the issue before proceeding with your sail build.
How do I Order a sail from Rolly Tasker Sails?
Ordering is simple. You can reach us through our website or phone for quotes on custom sails or stock sails.
For custom sails, a 50% deposit is required to start the build, and the final 50% is due before delivery or collection.
How long will it take to Receive my Sail?
Standard sail completion time from Sydney is typically 4 -5 weeks, but we’ll expedite production if you have a race or event deadline. Just let us know!
Shipping, Warranty & Claims
Frequently Asked Questions
Do you ship Sails Worldwide?
Yes, we ship worldwide, with all deliveries efficiently handled by UPS or DHL. In some cases, we can even supply your new sail wardrobe duty-free and of course if you’re a yacht in transit, we will ensure all paperwork is correctly address to ensure this is a smooth process for you to avoid any import taxes.
Can you service me if I live in a Remote Area of Australia?
We deliver sails weekly across Australia, no matter where you are, even in remote areas like the west coast or up in the territory.
How do you handle Sail Delivery and Pickup for Repairs?
We handle all logistics for new sails, repairs, or warranty claims. We’ll coordinate everything to ensure a smooth and hassle-free experience.
Do your sails come with warranty?
They sure do. We have extensive warranty on all our products. For full information on warranty coverage and sail care, visit our Sail Care and Warranty page.
How do I make a Warranty Claim?
To make a warranty claim, email us at info@rollytaskersails.com.au or call our team. We’ll guide you through the process and arrange for inspection or repair. If a replacement is needed, we’ll process it quickly to minimize your downtime.
About Sails
Frequently asked questions
What are Sail Battens and do I need them?
Sail battens are flexible fiberglass inserts that add stiffness to the sail, helping maintain shape and preventing the leech from collapsing. There are three main types:
- Fully Battened: Most stiff and best for shape control.
- Semi Battened: Balance between shape retention and flexibility.
- Leech Battened: Stiffens only the leech to save costs.
What size Storm Sail do I Require?
We offer a range of standard storm sails, trysails, and gale sails for most boats. Share your boat's design, and we can calculate the optimal size for you. Alternatively just look at our selection tables here.
What is a Gale Sail?
A Gale Sail is a storm sail designed to be hoisted over a furled headsail using the spinnaker halyard, making deployment safer and easier for cruising boats.
Benefits of a Gale Sail:
- Safer: No need to unfurl the working headsail in high winds.
- Aerodynamic: More efficient than conventional storm jibs.
- Strong construction with stainless steel cringles, reinforced corners, UV stabilised thread, and leather detailing.
For more details visit our Storm Sail Page here.
Do I need Storm Sails?
For general weather conditions, reefed headsails and mainsails are often sufficient. However, storm sails are critical when sailing in areas prone to high winds and heavy weather. They provide better control and handling, especially in offshore racing situations.
What is Luff Foam?
Luff foam is used in furling headsails to maintain draft even when the sail is reefed. It prevents distortion of the sail's shape and provides a more efficient, aerodynamic entry for better performance.
How do I know how long a Spinnaker Sock I Need?
- Symmetrical Spinnaker: Sock should be 1 meter shorter than the leech.
- Asymmetrical Spinnaker: Sock should be the same length as the leech.
What’s the Benefit of a Spinnaker Sock?
A spinnaker sock simplifies the process of hoisting and lowering a spinnaker, making it safer and easier for short-handed crews or cruising sailors with the key benefits being:
- Prevents tangling with internal rope compartments.
- Helps avoid twisting with a coloured full-length stripe.
- Large low-friction mouth for easy deployment.
- Integrated pulleys for smooth operation.
What type of Spinnaker or Downwind Sail is Best for me?
The best type of downwind sail depends on the conditions you'll be sailing in. Refer to our Downwind Sail Page for detailed guidance on selecting between different spinnaker types (symmetrical, asymmetrical, Code C, etc.).
What’s the difference between cross-cut and tri-radial cut sails?
Cross-cut sails
Cross-cut sails are constructed from 2-dimensional panels of woven or laminated material stitched or glued together to form the sail. Using a method called broad seaming, the edges of the panels are given curvature so that when the assembled sail is pressurised by the wind, it assumes an efficient sailing shape. In essence, 2D segments have been assembled to emulate a 3D form. Crosscut sails have less seams and reduced fabric waste compared to tri-radial sail constructions which creates savings for the customer.
Tri-radial cut sails
Tri-radial cut sails feature triangular panels radiating from the sail's three corners (tack, clew, and head) to improve shape-holding and performance by aligning structural fibers with load paths. This construction reduces stretch and deformation compared to traditional crosscut sails, leading to increased speed, efficiency, and a longer lifespan for the sail's designed shape.