– Update from the Honorary Treasurer Mark Buckley
As we approach the upcoming Special General Meeting, I would like to provide members with a clear and factual update on the proposed changes to the Club Rules. I am aware that a range of views—and some misunderstandings—are circulating, so it is important that members have a straightforward explanation of what is being proposed and why.
I joined the General Committee in late September last year, bringing with me a long-standing connection to both sailing and the Royal Brighton Yacht Club. My sailing journey began as a teenager at the Rosebud Yacht Club, and I joined RBYC some 38 years ago. Over that time, I have had the privilege of owning and/or skippering several boats within the Club, including DeJa Blue (Northshore 33), Simply Red (Farr 40), Vantage (Etchell), and more recently Moana (Beneteau First 45).
I have also participated in several offshore campaigns, including four Sydney to Hobart Yacht Race races, along with Melbourne to Devonport and Melbourne to Hobart events. Beyond sailing, I have remained actively involved in the broader Club community through nearly three decades of fitness and swimming.
Upcoming Proposal Overview
The Club’s membership structure has evolved over many years and now consists of 21 separate categories. While this has developed with good intent, it has also created complexity, inconsistency, and, at times, confusion. The proposal before members seeks to simplify this structure into 10 clearly defined categories that better reflect how members engage with the Club today. Ultimately, this change is designed to better match the membership framework with actual participation levels.
Key Proposed Change – General Membership
An important development within the proposal is the establishment of a new category known as General Membership. This initiative seeks to integrate the current Crew and Aquatic memberships, presenting a unified pricing model and benefits that resemble those offered to existing Crew and crucial to highlight that this new membership tier will have voting rights.
What Remains Unchanged
It is equally important to highlight what is not changing. Senior Member privileges are preserved, including access to: Members’ car park, Gym facilities, Hardstand and marina storage, which will not be available to the General Membership.
Governance structure remains unchanged:
The General Committee must continue to be comprised of Senior Members, and a maximum of two non-active sailors may serve on the General Committee. The General Committee will continue to set annual subscription fees The Committee will continue to determine associated member privileges
Conclusion
These proposed changes are focused on simplification, alignment, and the long-term sustainability of the Club. They are not about reducing member value or altering the fundamental charter of the RBYC.
I encourage all members to review the proposal carefully and attend the Special General Meeting to form their own informed view.