I live in the hills so everywhere is a bit of a drive,but where are some good places to go for a sail in winter? I'm very new to the sport, but I'm on holidays so I want to get out and get some more practice in!

River or ocean spots?

Pelican point would be the best for learning in winter SW'ly, or Melville in the NE'ly before the fronts. ausoutdoor.com was pretty helpful for me for locations when i first got here

Thanks, Is Ardross good? I have been told that it's a good place to go.

either, but I think the river will end up being the closest.

River spots - this applies all year round not just winter -
If there is East in the wind, Pelican Point, Majestic Point Ardross or Point Walter, east side - especially nice for NNE.
For N - NW - W The carpark on Melville Beach Parade. (Note that seabreeze underreads in NW, it is windier than you think!)

SW, S - Melville, Pelican Point, Point Walter west side.

Winter sailing is always gusty and the wind is on and off. Dress warmly because you have to stand around a lot while waiting for the next band of wind. The water also tend to be very choppy because the storm surge raises the tide and the sandbanks can't dampen the waves. It's not good beginner weather but it's all good practice.