A key theme at this year’s Victorian Sailing Summit held by Australian Sailing at RBYC was improving participation in sailing. However, many of the initiatives are just as applicable to other activities at our Club. In addition, there is a growing need to boost participation in Club activities and in particular for our intermediate and young adult members.
The summit identified several common barriers across many clubs that hinder attracting and retaining people in sailing. These included limited information on next steps after introductory programs; insufficient support for transitioning into club activities; lack of access to boats or crewing opportunities; high expectations to participate in racing and competition; and the commitment required to become a full member. Time and cost were also prominent concerns throughout the discussions.
Our Club is well aware of these barriers and has tried various programs and activities to address them, but more work remains to be done. Improved communication is central to finding a solution. In addition, it may be time to rethink how a yacht club operates altogether — perhaps even considering whether we should set aside the traditional 150-year-old model and design a new operating model for a modern yacht club.
I welcome your suggestions on how we can improve participation in RBYC sailing, complementary activities, and social events.
One area highlighted in last year’s Members’ Survey where both the General Committee and members would like to see improvement is engagement with the Club’s young adult members. This group, aged 18-45, represents 17% of our membership and is vital to the long-term sustainability of RBYC. We aim to increase their involvement in the running of the Club, enhance their access to sailing and other Club activities, and create meaningful social experiences.
While we continue to seek advice on how to improve engagement longer term, I can offer two immediate opportunities.
First, last year the General Committee agreed to appoint a “junior observer” to join the General Committee. Although this person cannot vote under the current Club rules, they would participate in discussions on matters relevant to the Club and represent the views of their generation in its operations. I encourage any interested individuals to contact me about becoming involved. I see this role continuing through the 2025/26 season and beyond.
Second, as part of the 150th celebrations, the Club still plans to support an end-of-year “Beach Party,” organised and run by our youth and intermediate members. Members will be welcome to invite friends, enjoy a party by the waterfront, and help create an opportunity to introduce new people to the Club. I look forward to seeing this event come to life and encourage anyone interested to contact me about getting involved. It will only be possible with your support and participation.
Wishing you fair winds and following seas and remember no bananas at sea.
Peter Demura
Commodore