Opening Day – completely according to script
The fabulous weather for Opening Day was a wonderful way to start the season.
The General Committee greeted the honoured guests in the members bar for coffee, to the wonderful sound of George Henderson’s bagpipes, and then the formalities were held on the back deck. Commodore Niesje Hees pointed out that sailing is a great equaliser and that we are keen to share our passion with kindred clubs as well as the broader community. “Maintaining a vibrant and healthy yacht club requires some mundane hard work and the willingness to meet complex challenges. Today is an opportunity to remind ourselves why we make the effort, to give thanks for our good fortune and to pay our respects to the sea and all who sail.” The Guest of honour Captain Ainsley Morthorpe from HMAS Cerebrus recounted some of his experiences from his extensive naval career, which were greatly appreciated by the audience. Club Captain Brett Heath mentioned our full season ahead with scheduled racing on four days out of seven, catering for all ages and varieties of boats. It was then left for everyone to observe the flagpole for the declaration of the opening of the season by our Guest of Honour, and to break out the burgee by our Honorary Life Members, Peter Austin and Mary-Alice Tedstone, with the firing of the gun by Ross Fisher.
At this point the official party made their way to “It’s a Privilege”, hosted by Immediate Past Commodore Peter Strain and Suzie Strain, while the sailors made their boats ready for the Sail past, followed by the social race. Participation was terrific, with 38 boats taking part in the sail past. The members of the official party were hoarse from all the cheering. Boats of all sizes got right into the Viking theme which made for a wonderful spectacle.
The party continued ashore with jazz music, Viking themed food and awarding of prizes. By the end of the day all Vikings were tired and happy and looking forward to a terrific sailing season ahead.
Images from the day
Ceremony, Sail Past and Race
https://www.dropbox.com/sh/1u85lhuixfck10q/AAAOLa1k_ypx7Hz31wktjEMTa?dl=0
Post Race Activities
https://www.dropbox.com/sh/8an21qftj5bqxdv/AADCgkEsNsZ3-aU9dJWhHd7da?dl=0