Update from the Vice Commodore
Last Friday evening the Club held its annual presentation night. In the presence of 132 members and invited guests the Commodore and Club Captain presented a range of awards covering activities on, in and off the water. The sailing season was well contested and although there were some familiar faces on the podium, their results were far from easy and reflected a lot of hard work and consistency over the season. For those boats that found success away from Port Phillip and the Club, this too was a reflection of planning, training, boat and sail preparation and not to forgot the execution of race day strategies. Of course, irrespective of whether you’re racing or cruising, there is still an element of luck involved. From my perspective, it was also pleasing to see a number of new faces on the podium, including junior sailors. In the case of Yachtsperson of the Year, Peter Coleman, Clubman of the Year, Past Commodore Paul Jackson, and Wayne Seward , the recipient of the Commodores Award, their awards reflect not only their achievements on the water, but just as importantly their significant contribution to the continued success and growth of yachting at your Club. Their awards were well deserved and universally applauded. With Opening Day just over 80 days away, now is the time to start planning for success for the 2023-24 season by examining all facets of boat and crew. For those seeking new ideas and solutions to old problems, there is a wealth of experience at the Club across all levels and types of sailing. If your new to yacht racing, why not enter the Ingenue Series or the more leisurely Wednesday night Twilight Series, while cruising yachtsman and motor boaters are encouraged to join the Cruising Group in their activities on and beyond Port Phillip.
A common complaint from boat skippers was the lack of experienced crew and adult training facilities. The Club has recently purchased a X79 keelboat and this will provide a great opportunity for those new to keelboat sailing to acquire the skills and confidence to be able to join in the fun. Although the first course is already booked out, I encourage those interested to speak to sailing office about future courses and being prepared for the upcoming summer sailing season.
Wishing you fair winds and following seas and remember no bananas at sea.
Vice Commodore
Peter Demura