December is traditionally a time for end of year plans, and for reflection. The club is bustling with member functions as well as community and private events. Let’s acknowledge our terrific staff. I know they love working at RBYC and enjoy seeing the clubhouse vibrant and busy – at the same time some of them are putting in long hours at a time of year that is hectic for them too. Please say thank you when you get the chance – where would we be without them?
This newsletter will give you information about upcoming events at the club. Thanks to the Social subcommittee and Sailing Office for organising the farewell for boats and crews participating in the Christmas ocean races. Join us in the members bar on 16 December to wish them fair weather and a wonderful trip. We are approaching a time of major regattas and sailing events for all classes of boats, from keel boats to one design to off the beach, and of course that relies on our significant volunteer workforce. An exciting time of year, and we are grateful to be able to participate without restrictions.
As we approach the year’s end, I’d like to thank all volunteers who make our club what it is – including the General Committee and sub-committees. Over the coming months we’ll be featuring some of the work the subcommittees do in this newsletter. We are so fortunate to have skilled members willing to give up their time and expertise. The commitment is highly valued, whether that be the Cleaner Sailing subcommittee initiating near term change such as lifejacket recycling and the flotsam bin and scoop, to the “working group” meeting each Thursday to maintain the rescue boats and other club resources, to the Marina and Attenuator Advisory Group assessing long term options for our marina and breakwater. Then there are the wonderful organisers and supporters of the Sailing Lift your Spirits program. Health Workers continue to operate under immense stress, and this program seeks to thank and recognise them.
While at the club over the next few weeks, consider an online donation to the Lighthouse Foundation, helping break the pattern of youth homelessness in Australia. You will see posters around the club and can write your festive season wishes on one of the Wishing Tree tags provided.
Wishing you all an enjoyable time with family and friends in the leadup to 2023.