What a wild weekend. Crews scheduled to race to Devonport revised their plans when the race was cancelled, and boats owners were checking their lines to make sure all was secure. I had the pleasure of attending Opening Day at Queenscliff Cruising Yacht Club and was reminded of the close relationship between QCYC and RBYC. As part of their 60th anniversary they acknowledged past Commodores, several of whom are RBYC members. I was thrilled to be invited to sail on It’s a Privilege, in Saturday’s Goorangai race from RBYC to Queenscliff, an annual tradition. It was a wonderful weekend all round, getting back to the safety of the marina just as the northerly started to freshen.
This reminded me of the importance of keeping the bigger picture with respect to sailing on Port Phillip. While our focus is on our club and its members, it is in all our interests to promote the sport of sailing more broadly. I have the opportunity in monthly Commodores’ meetings to discuss our common opportunities and challenges. With Sail Melbourne on the horizon in January we will have a terrific opportunity to work closely with other clubs in ensuring a successful regatta. Recently I met several members of Mordialloc Sailing Club who are looking forward to running one of the courses. I’ll be out on a safety boat myself – don’t forget to register if you are free to volunteer, a great opportunity to experience this exciting event firsthand.
Looking further ahead, January is a busy time for regattas. In 2024 we are hosting the VxOne Nationals and 2.4 Nationals (amongst others) and in 2025 the Etchells Worlds. These regattas will encourage the growth of our One Design Fleets. In the meantime, our “Learn to Sail” programs are bringing new sailors to the club.
On the home front, last week’s twilight race was very pleasant for those who started early – when the wind dropped, and the rain arrived it meant a bit of motoring for others. It was a great atmosphere in the club afterwards, with Vice Commodore Peter Demura announcing the winners and many crews enjoying a pleasant meal. We are at the mercy of the conditions but seems to find a way to enjoy ourselves regardless.
Asset maintenance is an important aspect of ensuring a healthy club, and we were pleased to see that the recent repairs to the attenuator have proven their worth. There are improvements planned for the club and marina, with new carpet in the members bar to be installed in mid-November, and quotes for a new marina gate currently being assessed. At the same time, we are researching the longer-term options for the marina and attenuator.
Many of us are looking forward to the Oaks Day lunch on Thursday which is completely sold out and will raise money for life saving equipment for Sandringham hospital. Bookings are strong for our function spaces during November and December.
We are approaching the busy season, and we hope you enjoy all the club has to offer; sailing (as a sailor or volunteer), swimming (once the water quality improves) and meeting with friends. Stay safe.