“One custodian, one legendary yacht, and a growing crew of stories.”

Old Saltys, a movement shaped by Well Weathered Wisdom, exists to honour the men and women of Australia and New Zealand.  We capture their stories, bringing connection back into communities and passing on practical lessons in courage, leadership, and showing up when it matters. We aim to share these lived experiences, giving skills and confidence one can carry for life. 

At the heart of this mission is our hero boat, Mark Twain (“The Twain”) a legendary Sydney to Hobart yacht we’re rebuilding into a moving meeting-place between generations. We aim to sail her from community to community, hosting gatherings that stitch people together in ANZAC spirit: service, mateship, resilience, and pride. We are gearing up to campaign Mark Twain in regattas across both countries and continue her quest for a Sydney to Hobart win, carrying our stories, our crew, and our communities with her.

Rob Payne, founder of Old Saltys, is the current custodian of Mark Twain, carrying responsibility for a living piece of Australian sailing history. A sailor and hands-on problem solver, Rob is the founder of Old Saltys and has become the steady hand behind “The Twain”, protecting her legacy, guiding her restoration, and keeping her story pointed toward open water. Rob leads with quiet grit and practical wisdom: do the work, look after your crew, and keep moving forward when conditions aren’t kind.

Under Rob’s watch, Mark Twain isn’t just being preserved, she’s being prepared to sail again, to race again, and to keep inspiring the next generation with well weathered wisdom.