Hello all

Getting in to sailing a bigger keel boat has always been on the agenda. Unfortunately the funding has not
I am now in a position where I can do this and would like some advice from all you experienced yachties.
I live around the Mosman Park area so preferably the clubs along the northern side of the river. I have not had any keel boat experience, however I sailed dinghies as a kid and have been windsurfing and kiting for years (no racing) Looking to get in to a yacht that I can cruise and race on the river, eventually progressing on to some ocean racing. Started looking at yachts (S&S 22/34's, Viking 30's, Cole 32's etc etc) Then got on to the bigger boats S80 and S97's, Farr 40's, BW's etc etc. I know nothing about these yachts and don't want to make the wrong choice. Is getting in to a big boat with very little experience totally wrong? Do I start on something smaller and work my way up? Does buying a yacht get you in to a club and pen, and are the club/racing communities open to newcomers etc etc? If I buy a bigger yacht how hard/easy is it to find crew?
Lots of questions I know, however any assistance would be greatly appreciated
Regards