The Etchells World Championships were a great way to begin the 150th year of Royal Brighton Yacht Club but now the focus shifts to our Club and the members to begin celebrating our 150th anniversary.
There are two key milestone events planned for the first half of the year.
Firstly, I’d like to extend an invitation to all members to join us for the 150th Anniversary Regatta, a spectacular celebration of our maritime heritage and racing traditions. This historic event will take place on the 29th and 30th March 2025, marking 150 years of yacht racing, adventure, and excellence on the water. The weekend will also include the Jubilee State Titles. We are honoured to see the return of the Jubilees; a class developed and first sailed at RBYC is 1934.
A severe storm in 1933 that destroyed the pier and three-quarters of the RBYC fleet was a turning point in the history of the Club and arguably Australian yachting. The loss of so many boats led to the development of the Jubilee the following year and the advent of one-design class racing, in which the Club has been successful for almost 100 years.
Whether you’re a seasoned racer, keen cruiser or motorboat owner, this regatta offers something for everyone. A Notice of Race will be issued shortly and now is the time to lock in the dates, round up your crew, and get ready to compete and enjoy the festivities from the shore.
The second milestone event is the Royal Brighton Yacht Club 150th Anniversary Ball to be held on Friday 9th May at The Carousel in Albert Park.
Now is the time for members to organise a table and secure your tickets for an elegant night of celebration, connection, and memories. This prestigious event promises a dazzling atmosphere, a 3-course meal and drinks, live entertainment from Richard Stubbs and the Baker Boys, and a chance to honour 150 years of yachting heritage and camaraderie.
A lot of planning has gone into this event to ensure it is accessible to all members, but at same time tickets are limited and to ensure your place at this special occasion kindly RSVP as soon as possible. Tickets for the event are $240 per person for a fully inclusive evening and can be booked on the RBYC Website.
The dress code for the evening will be black tie or lounge suit.
We look forward to celebrating together at what promises to be a remarkable event.
Wishing you fair winds and following seas and remember no bananas at sea.
Commodore
Peter Demura