Julie Bishop takes on the boys in Sydney to Hobart yacht race

CURTIN MHR Julie Bishop is heading to sea in support of women after a tumultuous year that ended her deputy leadership of the Liberal Party.

But Ms Bishop, Australia’s first female foreign minister, continued to be a beacon for more women navigating into politics.

“On Boxing Day I will take part in the Sydney to Hobart Race on Wild Oats X, as ambassador for Ocean Respect Racing – the first all-female, professional crew,” she told the Western Suburbs Weekly today.

Before the rigours of being before the mast from Sydney to Hobart, she will be with her family in Adelaide, but she wants success to come on the water.

“I am hopeful they will lift the Tattersall’s Cup and win the overall handicap honours,” she said.

The rest of her summer break will be taken up enjoying quiet times, particularly at Cottesloe Beach, and Perth’s summer.

“It’s the leisurely holiday pace, gorgeous weather, fabulous beaches, Swan River, rooftop bars and beach cafes all combine to make Perth a great place to be over summer,” she said.

It is sailing which, again, brings back a special memory of this time of year.

“I will never forget the summer of 1986/87 when Fremantle hosted the defence of the America’s Cup , because it was an extraordinary period in our coming of age as an international city.”