Thanks to all of you – staff, members and guests, who made Opening Day such an enjoyable event. We were blessed with dry weather and friendly breezes and had a wonderful day. Highlights included…
• Bagpipes by George Henderson, just back from playing at the Edinburgh Military Tattoo and winning a World championship.
• Formal ceremony introduced by the Commodore, with special mention of the 40th anniversary of the America’s Cup win by Australia II, and sharing some words from skipper John Bertrand AO, HLM.
• The Blessing of the Fleet by Rev Ian Morrison, Opening address by Patron Greg Yorke AM CSC RAN, and a welcome to the Sailing Season by Marnie Irving.
• Breaking out of the burgee by Honorary Life Members Bruce Smethurst, Mary-Alice Tedstone, Sue Leaper, and Peter Austin, with the gun fired by Murray Cowdell.
• Official boat Halycon, courtesy of Rod Cuthbert, entertaining the special guests.
• Sail past by keelboats, one design and off the beach boats, followed by a short race. Highlights included the first outing in a race by the brand new Schuss, and a Sail Past by new rhib RB2 with the RBYC staff on board.
• Sail Past by the fabulous RBYC Race Management Team
• Terrific 80s’ outfits on several boats (check out the photos).
• Back at the club, 80’s music by a terrific DJ, special cocktails, paella and salad – and the photo wall (check out the photos!).
• On the screens at the club “Where were you when Australia II won the America’s Cup?” – the memories of club members from that time.
• New framed poster of the “secret keel” in the members’ bar (donated by Jack Hammond KC)
• Club members dancing, reminiscing, and enjoying each other’s company and stories
Here is a link to some photos from the day from Paula Marszalek https://rbyc.org.au/opening-day-2023/
Looking forward to seeing you all at the first Wednesday night twilight! The forecast looks perfect.
Niesje