Corinthian 2019 BUILDING OUR SAILING FUTURE Royal Geelong Yacht Club Statement Of Purpose

“To be one of Australia’s cornerstone yachting and boating clubs, hosting world class events and home to the nation’s best sailors.” Royal Warrant

By Admiralty warrant of 27th March 1924, the privilege of wearing the Blue Ensign of Her Majesty’s Navy with the Club Pennant was extended to yachts of this club.

PATRON: The Honorable Linda Dessau A.C., Governor of Victoria

RGYC Board

John Kint Stuart Dickson Brenton Carnell Roger Bennett Brian Marshman Commodore Vice Commodore Rear Commodore Club Captain Treasurer

Christie Alberts Peter Alexander Phil Francis Simon Guthrie Chris Manton Paul Smart

RGYC General ManageR EDITORS DISCLAIMER

Phil Clohesy Chris Williams, Sarah Pettiford The information contained in this publication has been prepared to the best knowledge PHOTOGRAPHERS ADVERTISING of those who contributed. If an error has appeared, please contact the RGYC office Tom Smeaton, Denise Smeaton, Steb Fisher, Steve Hassell, Sarah Todd, Sarah Pettiford Craig Greenhill, Travis Harries, Adam Snow, so a correction can be made in subsequent Paul Douglas, RGYC Members & Staff PUBLISHER editions. The opinions expressed in Corinthian are not necessarily those of the Royal Geelong COVER IMAGE Royal Geelong Yacht Club Inc. Eastern Beach Yacht Club. All rights are reserved. No part of Road, Geelong this publication can be reproduced, in whole Geelong Waterfront Safe Harbour Precinct or in part, without the written permission of the Project CORINTHIAN 2018 CORRECTION publisher. Architect’s concept image The 2018 paper edition of Corinthian contained incorrect Alpha Division racing results. The error was corrected for the online edition.

Royal Geelong Yacht Club Corinthian 2019 3 Commodore’s Report

development of volunteering at RGYC. program, interclub racing and State and The Board has recently resolved to further National Championships. assist our volunteers through the purchase of The Fireball National Championship held four additional race support vessels and an in February this year was an outstanding upgrade of our racing and training equipment. success. Thank you to the many volunteers The further development of our volunteers’ who delivered these great championships – skills and the improved on-water support now for the Fireball Worlds in 2022! assets will be a lasting legacy from the World The 2019 Festival of Sails was a fantastic and National Championships that our club is about to host over the coming Summer of event, with plenty of feedback that it was one Sailing. of the best ever! Well done volunteers and staff – a magnificent effort. The RGYC Foundation continues its strong efforts in supporting the club’s future sailing The club power boat navigation rallies are set endeavours – thank you. to return this year. It is with pleasure that I provide my Commodore’s Report for 2018/19. GEELONG WATERFRONT SAFE WORLD, NATIONAL AND STATE In what has been an incredibly busy year, we HARBOUR PRECINCT (GWSHP) CHAMPIONSHIPS are well placed to bring our long-term plans to reality in the coming year. PROJECT In what will be the biggest year of significant regattas in the club’s history, our club will host Firstly, I thank all our members for your great Over the past twelve months we have the following events over the coming season: support and enthusiasm for our brilliant club. achieved much in this huge project. Stage 1 Your ideas, voluntary work and loyalty to our has commenced with the Minister for Planning • Springsail - State Dinghy Championships and club makes all the effort worthwhile. Thank providing Ministerial Approval for the entire Coaching Regatta: September 2019 you one and all. project. • Cadet National Championship: December We have secured a total of $19.35m in funding, 2019 / January 2020 FINANCIAL PERFORMANCE made up of: • 2020 Festival of Sails: January 2020 As noted in the Treasurer’s Report and the • $7.85m – State Government of Victoria Audited Annual Financial Statements, the club • Oceania and Australian (Incorporating Sail • $5.5m – Australian Government remains in a very sound financial position. We Melbourne) 49er, 49er FX and Nacra 17 have once again delivered a very strong profit • $3.0m – City of Greater Geelong Championships: February 2020 and cash surplus, even after Government • $3.0m – Royal Geelong Yacht Club • 49er, 49er FX and Nacra 17 World grants are deducted. This is most pleasing and The On-Water Design and Construct tender Championships: February 2020 positions us well as we enter the construction has been let, with work currently underway for • Wooden Boat Festival of Geelong: March phase of our redevelopment. the manufacture of the floating marina berths, 2020 Our club is well supported by many local, wave attenuator floating pontoons and piles. national and international partners in our We expect to see construction of the on-water • Laser Masters National Championship: events. Their contributions are essential to assets over the coming months. March 2020 the continued growth and success of our In parallel, the design of the land-based • Laster Masters World Championship: March programs and I thank them for their support. component of Stage 1 of the project – the 2020 Maritime Education complex, comprising RGYC is grateful for the continued support As you can see, we are in for a busy and of the City of Greater Geelong and the the Off The Beach building and the Victorian exciting year ahead! There will be disruption Government of Victoria who have contributed Sailing School, is well underway. to our normal routines, and I encourage all so much to our major events and the Geelong We expect the demolition of the Marina Office members to embrace these exciting times and Waterfront Safe Harbour Precinct Project. and Victorian Sailing School in the next month get involved and enjoy. or so. I take this opportunity to thank our brilliant VOLUNTEERS At this time next year, we will see the wave Board – you have been visionary, professional, Probably the most pleasing aspect of our attenuator and floating berths in place and accountable and diligent. Your workload has work over the past twelve months has been the new OTB/VSS building will be nearing been huge and your unified support is well the focused effort in rewarding, recruiting and completion. Exciting times! training of our great band of volunteers. We recognised and acknowledged. have introduced a comprehensive series of CLUB SAILING PROGRAMS I thank retiring Board Members Brenton training modules across many elements of Our club sailing programs are once again very Carnell and Paul Smart OAM for their race management and race support for our well supported by skippers and crew. passionate and dedicated hard work. many on-water programs. The sailing programs and activities that have I thank all our members for your support of The Race Management Team Training Matrix been very well supported by our members the Board and your support for us to continue is an innovation that is attracting attention from include: keel boat racing (Summer and Winter), serving our members’ interests to our full many clubs throughout the Australian Sailing Off The Beach (Summer and Winter), cruising, capacity. What a year we have just had! What network. Women in Sailing, navigation rallies, Learn to a year we have in front of us! I offer my heartfelt thanks to our huge array Sail (Tackers, Green Fleet, Out There Sailing, of volunteers and I particularly thank the keel boat courses and dinghy courses), John Kint volunteers who work to support the growth and coaching programs, Barwon Sports Academy Commodore

4 Royal Geelong Yacht Club Corinthian 2019 Royal Geelong Yacht Club Corinthian 2019 5 General Manager’s Report

Club Sailing Program to grow our band of trained volunteers, particularly from a race management Our many and varied programs operated perspective. The many training courses that very successfully under the guidance of our the club now provides for our volunteers are Sailing and Boating Committee and Sailing of the highest order. Office staff. The club recently introduced a volunteer The regular club sailing activities including management software system. Whilst it the Leura Park Summer Sailing Series, the may take some time to iron out some small Deakin University OTB Summer Program, wrinkles, this system will support the club’s VRCA Twilight Sailing Series, the Davidsons management and engagement of volunteers Winter Series, and the cruising activities for years to come. Over the past twelve months, our club has were extremely successful. Combined World, National and State focused on a number of key areas: with other club events including the Tuff Championships • The Geelong Waterfront Safe Harbour Marine Series, Gannett Cup, McAllister Precinct (GWSHP) Project Cup and the Commodore’s Winter Wonders The coming Summer will be one of the afternoon mini-series, we had more than most significant periods in the club’s history • Club Sailing, Coaching, Training and Learn sixty club races throughout the year. in terms of hosting and conducting major to Sail Programs regattas. The Off The Beach section including • Volunteers Cadets, Optis, Green Fleet, Lasers, Mixed A list of these events is provided elsewhere • Upcoming State, National and World Fleet, Barwon Sports Academy, Club in this edition of Corinthian and I thank all Championships Coaching Programs and regattas continued members for the support and assistance Importantly, the Board and staff maintained to be extremely active. The International required to conduct these regattas. focus on our financial performance and Cadet Worlds in Poland was a highlight for RGYC has an international reputation financial position. This effort has resulted in our young members who competed at such for our ability to attract and deliver world the outstanding financial results reported at a high level. standard events. We all face a significant this year’s Annual General Meeting. challenge this coming Summer to further The Women in Sailing Program is starting to enhance our club’s reputation as being able The next twelve to eighteen months will expand and this is an area of growth that we to deliver best practice events and promote be challenging as we roll out Stage 1 of will pursue in the coming year. Geelong and Corio Bay as the place to visit. our building project and at the same time The club’s Sailing Academy also ensure that member services and facilities I thank the Board, under the astute experienced further growth as one part of are well managed. leadership of Commodore John Kint, our recruitment and development of new for their unbelievable time commitment, Geelong Waterfront Safe sailors. support, advice, hard work and vision.

Harbour Precinct (GWSHP) This remarkable sailing program required I also thank our talented staff for a job Project a significant number of skilled volunteers very well done in an environment that is and volunteer hours. Thank you to all our challenging and constantly changing. Expanded details of this project are volunteers, on and off the water, who make Finally, I thank our members - you are provided elsewhere in this edition of our sailing programs happen. fantastic. Corinthian. Volunteers Phil Clohesy At this time last year we had secured $15.6 General Manager million in funding and the design team was Over 200 volunteers supported our club in WE CAN DESIGN IT, PRINT IT, FILM IT about to be appointed. Currently, we have many and varied roles throughout the year. AND MAKE IT DIGITAL a total of $19.35 million in funding secured, The introduction of the Race Management the Master Plan adopted and planning Team training by the Sailing and Boating approval in place. Committee is innovative and timely. As our Members are able to view the progress of on-water programs and regattas continue to the project on www.gwshp.com.au. expand and diversify, our club needs

6 Royal Geelong Yacht Club Corinthian 2019 Royal Geelong Yacht Club Corinthian 2019 7 Geelong Waterfront Safe Harbour Precinct Project Some fast facts regarding this transformational project

• Funding: $19.35 million • Design Teams (Land 5. Handover early March 2020. - Land Elements (Maritime Education - State Government of Victoria $7.85 million Components) Complex and associated public realm) - - Australian Government $5.5 million - Lead Design: Terroir Architects Stage 1 - City of Greater Geelong $3 million - On Water Design and Construct: Poralu 1. Primary planning approvals (Incorporated - Royal Geelong Yacht Club $3 million Marine Australia Pty Ltd Document) achieved August 2019. 2. Detailed design of OTB/VSS complex is • Stage 1 will include: • Estimated Timelines currently underway. - A 425 metre long Wave Attenuator (public - On-water – Stage 1 3. Victorian Sailing School Demolition: Early accessible) October 2019. 1. Design and manufacturing of on-water - 28 new floating berths components (piles and pontoons) is 4. Secondary planning approvals submitted December 2019. - A new Maritime Education complex currently underway. The specialty nature Member for Geelong, Christine Couzens MP, and RGYC Commodore, John Kint, turn the first sod to incorporating the Victorian Sailing School, of the structure requires the units to be 5. Construction tenders issued by: February begin the GWSHP Project on 23rd August, 2019. Marina Office and Off The Beach facilities manufactured in Ireland and France 2020. - Public realm and access improvements following a public tender process. 6. B uilder appointed: Late March 2020. - A ‘Changing Places’ facility for people with 2. Piles will be driven in late November/ 7. Off The Beach building demolition & new disabilities December 2019. building construction commences: April 3. Marina berth pontoons will be connected 2020. • Approvals to the piles in early January 2020. 8. C onstruction completed: December 2020. 4. Wave Attenuator pontoons will be - Master Plan adopted by Council in May connected to the piles early February 2019 2020 for the public section. These will be - Planning approval via Planning Minister completed by the end of January. The achieved August 2019 outer section and associated lighting and - Marine, Coastal Act Consent - pending utilities will be completed in February - Parks Victoria Works Permit - pending 2020.

Announcement of the appointment of Project Architect, Terroir on 25th September, 2018.

Concept design Concept design

8 Royal Geelong Yacht Club Corinthian 2019 Royal Geelong Yacht Club Corinthian 2019 9 Sailing and Boating Australian Sailing Victorian Awards Night

It is with considerable pleasure that I report A great number of our sailors successfully The Year Ahead The Australian Sailing Victorian Awards Night Radial Class and Ollie Manton in the 49er RGYC member, Jake Newman, was also on the operations of the Sailing and Boating represented us at State, National and was held on 21st June, 2019. Whilst the Club Class. Michael also picked up first place in recognised as the Trailable Yachtsperson Committee (S&B) over the past year. The International events. Congratulations to all The 2019/20 year promises an unprecedented did not pick up any of the major awards this the Victorian Sailing Cup in the Laser Radial of the Year. Jake has a remarkable 2018/19 season has been one to remember. those sailors, their coaches and their support number of regattas at RGYC. The Club will be year, we were successful with two Geelong Class. career in sailing with his start in Cadets at We have successfully hosted the regular Club teams. The success of these sailors is built on hosting events including the exciting Festival youth sailors announced in the 2019 Victorian Well done on becoming a part of this squad RGYC through many different classes to Aggregate Series, the Festival of Sails and the significant training programs provided by of Sails, the historic Wooden Boat Festival Institute of Sport Squad. and in their World Championships that they premier ocean races around the world. We several State and National titles and many our highly regarded coaching team. My thanks of Geelong, the Cadet Nationals and four RGYC Members announced as training are competing in this year. congratulate Jake on his success. training activities. to all involved. Olympic Class Sailing World Championships, partners were Michael Parks in the Laser which will see competitors and support crews Alpha Course Race Management from across Australia and around the globe. Whilst participation levels in club racing are Volunteers RGYC is about to undergo major declining slightly, with a drop in the number of redevelopment of the site so we will all be This year we have commenced an ongoing Division 1, 2 and 3 and Etchells racing, VX1’s working together to maintain our sailing program to recruit new and retain existing are seeing an encouraging upward trend. programs during the building program. Race Management Team (RMT) members. Corio Cruisers racing continues to engage a S&B will develop a new Strategic Sailing Plan regular fleet that enjoys the longer distance Over the last few months we have which will encourage the growth of our keel races. concentrated on ensuring our existing and boat fleet, the continued development and new volunteers have had the opportunity to Participation numbers aside, the Summer transition of our OTB sailors, together with participate in training in preparation for the Aggregates were keenly contested and, as some new formats of sailing that will cater for many events we are hosting in the new sailing always, the competition went down to the wire Members’ changing needs. season. for many. On behalf of Sailing and Boating Committee RGYC will be showcasing the very best of thank you all for the support and enthusiasm Off the Beach Sailing and what RGYC and the Geelong region has that makes RGYC sailing and boating so Training to offer and we need many trained and successful. It has been a great year, and with enthusiastic volunteers. your continuing support, an even greater year OTB sailing continues to go from strength A new volunteer system is being introduced to come. to strength with Optimists, Cadets, Lasers, to support event rostering and provide Roger Bennett Fireballs, Tasers, 29ers and the odd better access for volunteers to manage their Chairman, Sailing and Boating Contender going out each week. involvement in our programs.

10 Royal Geelong Yacht Club Corinthian 2019 Royal Geelong Yacht Club Corinthian 2019 11 Opening Day 2018

12 Royal Geelong Yacht Club Corinthian 2019 Royal Geelong Yacht Club Corinthian 2019 13 Sailability

During this season of Sailability, I became This award recognises outstanding aware of the Laser class definition of their dedication by a volunteer for our program “Masters” divisions. and the awardee is chosen by the program coordinators; Janet Torode, Alan Goss, If you are over 35 years old you are a “Master”, Lindsay Goss, Tony Minchin and myself. over 45 years old you’re a “Grand Master”, over 55 years old you’re a “Grand, Grand This season we had the normal situation of Master”, and over 65 years old you’re a occasional poor weather and pauses in our “Legend”……. program due to events both within and external to RGYC. Overall we made many clients happy Within the RGYC Sailability family I believe we throughout our season, which of course is the Learn To Sail @ RGYC have a “Bloody Legend”, David Purnell. David objective of the Sailability program at RGYC. attends the Monday Sailability program, and has done so for a number of years. We welcomed a number of new volunteers into An important way the club is building our Youth Out There sailing is a new program that 91 programs with 444 participants. We then our group and I’m hopeful they, along with our and how we conduct our activities. Funds sailing future is through our Learn To Sail RGYC piloted with fifteen participants and add five Discover Sailing Days with 313 more In his mid-eighties, David fronts up every regular crew, will again support the Sailability raised will go towards maintenance of our programs. The activities are designed to three more who undertook an “experience” new sailors who have great fun under the week, helps set up and pack up our sailing program in the future. aging fleet and completing changes to our meet the needs and abilities of a wide range program. guidance of our friendly instructors. equipment and enjoys taking our clients out on equipment required by the building program. of participants and to encourage them to the water in the Hansa dinghies. During this season we were very pleased to The activities include sailing dinghies and keel Our new facilities, to be built in 2020, will I’m sure we will navigate these changes to take up sailing. Young learn-to-sailors begin be selected as one of two beneficiaries in the boats as well as experiencing the club’s five support the training programs and encourage A lasting memory of David was when the ensure we provide maximum enjoyment and their practical lessons using Optis. School Geelong East Rotary Bi-annual Dinner Auction new stand up paddle boards. the growth of sailing. breeze had picked up from the North East in opportunities for our clients. programs and dinghy courses use the Pacers, which was held at RGYC. one of our sessions. There was David in the while keel boating is learnt on the club’s J24’s. RGYC Learn To Sail instructors range in age You don’t need to be a member of RGYC, or dinghy, surfing the waves with a huge grin on We held our “Thank You” BBQ in April with and experience and they have worked across even be a sailor to assist our program. Contact his face, and a grin on the client’s face as well. the bulk of our 35 volunteers present. Special the RGYC Office if you would like to join the David’s enthusiasm and expertise is clear to thanks go to Bev Lee for the delicious carrot team. all. cake which rounded off our lunch.

It is for these attributes that David has been This coming season promises to be Graeme Ritchie awarded the “Lofty Thomas Award” for the challenging with the revamp of the yard and Sailability Coordinator RGYC 2018/19 Sailability season. buildings requiring changes to our equipment

14 Royal Geelong Yacht Club Corinthian 2019 Royal Geelong Yacht Club Corinthian 2019 15 Alpha Sailing ‘Esoterica’ in Indonesia

The Indonesian Anambas Islands are understood where the edge of the fringing comprised of 255 islands, of which only 26 are reef was, and he guided us into a small bay inhabited. The island group, in the southern where we dropped anchor. We disembarked end of the South China Sea, is located midway from our dinghy onto the stilt platforms in front between the Malaysian peninsula and Borneo. of the houses, to be greeted by the same The population is 50,000, mainly Muslim. fisherman. His name was Alvian, he spoke Villages generally are ‘kampung air’, built on some English, and delightedly he told us that stilts over the water. we were the first yacht that had ever anchored in front of their village! After introducing us to We were one of only 26 yachts that visited his extended family the next question was ‘Do the area in 2016, the second year that yachts you like coconuts?’, and with an affirmative could clear into Anambas with the Sail reply we set off, with about half the villagers Malaysia Rally. In 2017 Tarempa, the main following, to the small coconut plantation, town, became an Official Port of Entry, in whereupon one of the locals climbed the tree a bid to attract more yachting tourism. We and dropped a number of coconuts at our feet. visited again that year, staying for nearly three Two were quickly opened on the spot, some months in an area that can only be described straws materialized, and we were treated to as Indonesia’s best kept secret. That season fresh coconut juice as we were then given nearly 60 yachts visited, some like us staying a tour of the village, comprising about 100 for several months. people. It was a wonderful warm welcome, The Anambas Islands provide clear waters, followed up by dinner in Alvian’s house, local sheltered anchorages and pristine reefs with spicy foods enjoyed whilst we all sat around prolific fish life for snorkeling and diving. There on the floor, conversing in a mixture of English trip in 2017 to see young Adel proudly wearing are hundreds of smaller islands for exploration and Indonesian. a dress that had previously belonged to our that have beautiful anchorages with coral reefs grand-daughter. We have been back several times to this and sandy beaches, some with small villages village, called Kampung Butan but known to John and Kerryn Peirce departed RGYC early on the shoreline. us as Adel’s Anchorage, after Alvian’s young 2013 aboard ‘Esoterica’ and have cruised On our first visit we were seeking a quiet daughter. We have taken children’s clothing the East Coast of Australia, across the top to anchorage away from the busy town harbour (surplus to our family‘s needs), calculators for Darwin, the Kimberley, Indonesia, Malaysia of Tarempa when we discovered one such the children, and some monetary assistance and Thailand. They are currently in Borneo. gem. As we approached the bay a fisherman for one of the villagers who was injured and waved to us from his boat, ensuring we unable to work. It delighted us on our return John Peirce

16 Royal Geelong Yacht Club Corinthian 2019 Royal Geelong Yacht Club Corinthian 2019 17 Vision Impaired Sailing Day 2019

The Vision Impaired Sailing Day, “In the Ray Goodwin and Jan Jones who have Cockpit”, is run in April every year at RGYC organised this event for so long were and this was its sixteenth year. Our Members presented a plaque by the Corio Bay Lions support this event by providing their yachts to Club in recognition of the work they do for this take vision impaired guests out on the Bay. community. Congratulations Jan and Ray. The visitors always enjoy the trip and several The Victorian Lions Foundation: LEO TYQUIN of them participate in the operation of the AWARD - for Sailing for the Blind. yachts in crew roles.

If you would like to join the RGYC Foundation and participate in the mission to better secure, support and assist the Royal Geelong Yacht Club in fostering and encouraging the sport of sailing for members and the general community, visit www.rgycfoundation.com.au

18 Royal Geelong Yacht Club Corinthian 2019 Royal Geelong Yacht Club Corinthian 2019 19 A Trip To Tap Expertise

EXPERTISE is hard to come by, and boat An ad on the RGYC noticeboard saw member below 5-knots) was invoked to head directly to building expertise is even harder to nail down. Ed Featherston join Mal and his fellow marine idyllic Refuge Cove before dark. engineer John Harper, from Cairns, Qld, Long passages can demand early starts, so That was one of the reasons RGYC member aboard for the 1023 nautical mile delivery trip. Mal Lawrence was determined to return his after a full day’s rest, it was a 4am departure Retired civil engineer and RGYC member Martzcraft 46 to Queensland in October last the following day. Graeme Hiller heard about the trip while year for upgrades and refinements before its attending the RGYC Cruising Group’s October In the pitch black, with a lumpy swell designer-builder Brent Martz wrapped up his dinner and also joined the crew at short notice. converging through the narrow entrance at boatbuilding business to retire on his 70th high tide, strong eddies slewed the yacht , birthday. After an overnight stop at Queenscliff Cruising which we had nicknamed Malzcraft, through Yacht Club there was an early morning run three 180 degree turns that headed us first Brent built 90 Martzcraft 35s and 13 Martzcraft through the Rip into Bass Strait, with the main towards one rocky headland, then the other. 46s over his career as a boat builder in Sydney and genoa then set to clear Cape Schanck in a and on the Gold Coast. fresh nor’easter. Mal calmly revved up the Volvo 55 Saildrive to regain control and headed out into a very Boisterous conditions prevailed from Cape Rigal, Brent’s last 46, for himself, was being confused sea from the westerly swell running Paterson through Cape Liptrap into Waratah finished in a shed on his property at Mt around Wilsons Promontory into an opposing Bay, where the yacht came in at 3am. John Tamborine and Mal had ordered improvements north-east second swell. and Graeme got up for anchor watch while Mal to the retractable centreboard, bulkhead and Ed knocked off for a well earned rest. Crossing The Paddock, Malzcraft threaded passthroughs (to increase headroom) and a its way through the oil and gas production new hardtop to replace the canvas dodger on Mal’s system of two-man watches – six hours platforms off Gippsland’s 90-Mile Beach. the 2002-built yacht, which Mal had bought in on, six off – worked well, with the crew getting Sydney in 2017. good rests to avoid fatigue and everyone By daybreak next morning the Cann River light sharing both day and night watches. was abeam and by noon we were at Gabo At sea again whales were frequently sighted, During the night we motored closer inshore to surfed at up to 11.9 knots and had trouble with Other work to be done included making escape the 3.8 knot East Australian Current After departure at 9am, it was two-sail Island, where John had a rare sighting of a along with flipper-waving seals, dolphins a slow big tanker trying to overtake us as we and fitting davits, under-seat lockers on the and head seas that saw us down to only a reaching between the spectacular Wilson’s killer whale in the bay! cavorting around the bow, muttonbirds and kept up a satisfying 8.5 knots all day. stern quarters, aft-mounted solar panels, knot. Promontory islands until late afternoon, when albatrosses as the crew took on headwinds to remodelling internal doorways, rewiring, some The crew went exploring, visited the historic Moonlit surfing was magic and by dawn a 35-knot north-easter swept in to the north of 40 knots and 1.5m to 2.5m swells en route to lighthouse and keepers’ quarters and that The north-east swells got up to 3m and were replumbing and installing electric winches. the Martzcraft 46, which had proved her Rodondo Island. Bermagui’s narrow and tricky port entry. beginning to break, with a few waves sluicing night joined marine biologist Catherine worth throughout the trip, was approaching the decks for the first time on the trip before The yacht had to be delivered to the Gold Two long tacks under reefed sails saw little Brownleigh and her two French research After an overnight stay, refuelling and topping Nambucca Heads, lifting its average from 5.4 rain flattened the seas and the wind began to Coast by October 29, before Mal, a marine progress against the strong tidal race so the assistants to watch the tagged muttonbirds fly up provisions, we set sail for Southport. to 5.9 knots overall. die out to under 10 knots. engineer, took up a new job. “5-knot rule” (motor on if the speed drops back in from Antartica to their burrows. Stemming the East Australian Current and By 1800 hours we were off Yamba, still surfing, Off Newcastle it was a case of “threading the encountering hour-long fog patches with with the crew enjoying the sunshine and visibility down to 50m, the crew had to sound needle” through the lines of parked ships in the night watches, with Mal anxious not to cross dodging behind the container ship Maersk the fog horn at the mandatory “one blast every the “pointy end” of any of them. Virginia. two minutes” as the AIS had lost signal and we did not have a radar unit. His “must have” navigation units included up- Another great night of full moon sailing to-date paper charts, plotter, an AIS receiver downwind was followed by the breeze North of Sydney a southerly buster rolled up patched in to the deck mounted iPad with an dropping out by dawn. with sheet lightning and a few jagged bolts iSail navigation app for instant course and hitting the sea nearby. The “5 knot rule” was invoked again as waypoint information. All this plus Garmin we closed the Southport Seaway in calm Mal disengaged the auto pilot and swung the hand-held and mounted units for back up and conditions against a 2-knot ebb tide. bow into the wind before the front blasted in at speed over the ground, course made good and 56 knots. updating trip averages. We arrived at the Gold Coast City Marina, With thoughts of the “Perfect Storm” movie These kept us well clear of anchored and Coomera, at 1230 hours after a 12-day coming to mind and with a huge grin, he moving ships, although at one stage Mal had delivery and Malzcraft was slipped, pressure yelled: “Hang on ... we’re in the eye of the to do a 360 degree loop to pass astern of a hosed off and securely blocked up in the yard monster!” ship. next morning. A welcome favourable reaching breeze set in Under bare poles and heeled hard to Within a day Brent had fitted the new hardtop and Malzcraft topped 7 knots as we slid past starboard, the sturdy Martzcraft took it in and had begun work on the other tasks to get Port Stephens. her stride as the swells suddenly switched the yacht ready for its return trip home. direction and the wild wind moderated from 40 Next day saw a steady 25 knot south-westerly to 30 knots. and, with waves building to 1.5m-plus, we Ed Featherston

20 Royal Geelong Yacht Club Corinthian 2019 Royal Geelong Yacht Club Corinthian 2019 21 Winter Series Racing VRCA Twilight Racing 2019

Davidsons Winter Series 2019 Division One Division One 1st – Larriken 2, Darren Pickering 2nd – Extasea, Paul Buchholz 1st – Spirit of Rani, Phil Francis 3rd – Bundaberg, John Kint 2nd – Allora, Paul Smedley 3rd – Baltic, Peter Bone Division Two Division Two 1st – Joan D’Arc, Douglas Gaylard 2nd – Diamond Belle, Jon Apted 1st – Fleurieu Warrior, Trevor Brown 3rd – Two Farr, Will Baum 2nd – Onda, Gian Macolino

3rd – Lupa Wylo, Geoff Sadler

Commodore’s Winter Wonders 2019

1st – Bundaberg, John Kint

2nd – Elixir, Chris Williams

3rd – Lupa Wylo, Geoff Sadler

22 Royal Geelong Yacht Club Corinthian 2019 Royal Geelong Yacht Club Corinthian 2019 23 2018 Etchells World Championship

Two teams represented Royal Geelong Yacht hours to get to and from the race course. This was valuable as the conditions in Moreton Club at the Queensland State and World Rod was using Chris Manton’s VSR5.8 RIB Bay were some of the trickiest any RGYC Championships held at Royal Queensland as coach boat for the event and towing two team member had ever encountered. Swirling Yacht Squadron (RQYS). The RQYS was very Etchells to and from the race course was currents, breezes switching from gradient to well prepared and the venue itself is tailor not ideal but really helped the teams relax thermal with cloud interference made each day made for large scale sailing events such as before and after racing. The typical day had a real challenge. the Etchells Worlds. There were 94 boats both teams dock off at 0945hrs and return by The conditions for the Worlds ranged from competing at this championship representing 1800hrs. Both Voodoo and Perfect Balance 8-12 knots from South East to Northerly over Australia, Great Britain, Hong Kong, Nigeria, worked well together as a team setting up for the course of the week. USA, New Zealand and Bermuda. speed testing before the first race of the day Both teams sailed very well considering their The RGYC boats were: “Perfect Balance” which gave Rod a chance to give some input, (AUS1387) crewed by Bendan Garner (Helm), take photos for rig analysis and give feedback. limited preparation and recent experience in fleets of that size. Both teams had moments of Ben O’Brien (Bow), Josh Garner (Apprentice) The Etchells class has placed restrictions glory but at this level it’s consistency that wins and Chris Manton (Main Trim) and “Voodoo on coach boats having any communication/ the regatta. You could safely say the top ten Spirit” (AUS 1024) crewed by Guyon Wilson contact with the boats they are coaching from boats were capable of winning the Worlds but (Helm), Alastair Lee (Bow) and Ben Ramage the first Preparatory Signal of the day until the winning boat had Matt Belcher, Olympic (Main Trim). In addition, Rod Hagebols was the racing has concluded for the day, not even Gold medallist, and the runner up boat had team coach and support crew. between races. Coaches were also held 200 Matt’s crew, Will Ryan, the Silver medallist, on metres below the start line until the Race As a lead up to the Worlds, Perfect Balance board. Apart from those teams, the fleet was Committee dropped their orange flags, usually sailed in what turned out to be a very windy stacked with the cream of one design sailors five minutes after the start. Coach boats then pre-Worlds (Queensland States) regatta. such as John Bertrand and Steve Benjamin. had to stay 200m from any part of the course Gusts of up to 26 knots provided lots of Perfect Balance finished 56th and Voodoo where an Etchell might sail. The race signal excitement on the downwind legs of the races. Spirit was 60th overall. Both teams should be boat was situated in the middle of the 1.3km There were many breakages, wipe outs, man pleased with their performance on and off the long start line. Choosing the correct end of over boards, holes in boats and sinkings. As water. Each team’s process and willingness to the line was very important as small changes it turned out, the conditions were not ideal as learn and try things out of their comfort zone is in wind or current direction would influence/ practice because the Worlds were sailed in to be congratulated. Royal Geelong Yacht Club favour boats at one end. very moderate 6-12 knots of breeze. could not have been represented any better. The racing was conducted on Moreton Bay We contracted Meteorologist, Ken Batt, for Well done team! which is approximately 75 minutes from the the Pre Worlds and Worlds. Ken provided marina. Each day we spent two and a half forecasts and current modelling each day. Rod Hagebols

The beginning of the tow each morning – Guyon Wilson (Left) always on the go.

The Start line at 1.3km

24 Royal Geelong Yacht Club Corinthian 2019 Royal Geelong Yacht Club Corinthian 2019 25 Festival of Sails Event Chairman’s Report

The 2019 Festival of Sails was a huge success to get the fast boats to Geelong by early following the Festival of Sails and that we are with many positive comments again proving afternoon. planning to use Steam Packet Gardens again the three-day format over the Australia Day next year. The three days saw participants compete in long weekend is the preferred model for 100 races over 6 courses in yachts ranging Events of this type and size would not be participants and visitors. The racing, by from million-dollar Grand Prix racers, sports possible without the considerable involvement all competitive sailing measures, was an boats, multihulls, trailer boats, classic yachts, from our volunteer team. RGYC is extremely overwhelming success with extremely positive family cruisers, to children’s dinghies. We are fortunate to have a huge supporter base, feedback from our participants. very pleased to welcome yachts from many of both within and outside the club. We operated Entry numbers were up on 2018, with a total our kindred clubs and commend the efforts of a newly structured volunteer system that of 307 boats, confirming the Festival of Sail’s skippers and crews from interstate who join spread the work load considerably. Under position, not only as the largest keelboat us. the leadership of our Volunteer Coordinator regatta in the Southern Hemisphere, but the the process worked extremely well, and After racing, large crowds enjoyed the oldest sailing event in Australia. This event the feedback from our 210 volunteers was high quality entertainment program. With is older than Wimbledon, the Ashes, the extremely positive and encouraging. entertainment stages at the newly designed Melbourne Cup and the modern Olympics. regatta village at RGYC and Eastern Beach, Our key supporters for the 2019 event were, We were delighted to have Sir James Hardy the crowds had plenty to cheer about. The again, the State Government of Victoria and OBE as our Festival Ambassador. Sir James main bands featured were the Royal Australian the City of Greater Geelong and I thank them is identified in the Australian community Navy Band, Russell Morris and Vika and Linda for their continued support of this truly world as a successful yachtsman. He became Bull, who all drew large crowds. class event. We are extremely fortunate to a household name when he represented have such a magnificent sailing venue in Corio Australia at the 1964 Olympic Games in Japan Australia Day crowds enjoyed the waterfront Bay. and then again in 1968 in Mexico. One of festival between Royal Geelong Yacht his greatest yachting achievements was his Club and Eastern Beach Reserve. Locals Thanks to Geelong Connected Communities skippering in three separate challenges for the and visitors to the region enjoyed free for supporting the waterfront festival. Special America’s Cup. He is an inspiration to sailors entertainment, roving performers, food vans thanks also to our Major Sponsors and the and offers encouragement to all who enjoy our and market stalls. There was a free ‘come many other event sponsors who got behind the sport. and try’ sailing activity on Eastern Beach Festival of Sails and contributed to its success. with Discover Sailing. This event was a The Festival launched on Australia Day, The Executive Committee and the Operations huge success with over two hundred people Saturday 26th January with the running of the Committee and our staff worked tirelessly taking to the water. Many of our junior sailors historic 176th Passage Race. The traditional throughout the year and special thanks must assisted with this activity. We also held our race from Melbourne to Geelong saw 230 go to those involved with the planning and inaugural ‘Regional Artisan Food Fair’ along yachts depart Williamstown in light air. implementation of this iconic event. with buskers’ entertainment at Fairnie Park. Principal Race Officer Denis Thompson once After the success of 2019 we look with again demonstrated his skill as an outstanding While the Cadel Evans Great Ocean Road confidence towards a bigger and better event race officer along with his race management Race cycling event on Saturday and Sunday in January 2020. I hope that you will join us. team. These expert race officials delivered an did not affect the sailing component of almost perfect regatta, getting the fleet away the event, it must be noted that it certainly on time and without incident, and despite a impacted the waterfront festival over the Stuart Dickson slow drifting start to the Passage Race, the weekend. It is pleasing to know that the cycling 2019 Festival of Sails Chairman breeze gradually built throughout the day event is now scheduled for the weekend Vice Commodore RGYC

26 Royal Geelong Yacht Club Corinthian 2019 Royal Geelong Yacht Club Corinthian 2019 27 Van Dieman’s Land Circumnavigation 2019 Another “Magic” cruise around Tasmania

complex. Sundancing had lost their prop on Port Davey saw the fleet spread around with Hobart provided a chance to explore the town, the crossing, and once they dropped anchor, some up at Melaleuca and others in various try the whisky distillery and replenish the Definition. Cruising = fixing yachts in and discussing the various weather models. had to stay there in exposed windy conditions bays. Goggo, Crispian & Patternmaker were fridge, while also enjoying the end of cruise exotic places. There was a touch of nervous anticipation for a couple of days until parts could be catching crays near Breaksea Island. Most dinner and presentation night for the Hobart amongst the crews. Rae and I had decided early that we would be fabricated to allow Bill and Russell and others of the Geelong boats seemed to congregate fleet. Several yachts took the opportunity for taking part in this cruise, as we had intended As several boats were sailing shorthanded, we to install the spare prop that was fortunately together at various spots around the cruise, a crew change, with some having to return to to participate in our second cruise in 2017, weren’t looking for boisterous weather for the aboard Sundancing. and Claytons Corner was one where we were work and other commitments. but work circumstances meant that we had to initial crossing to Three Hummock Island off all together for a couple of days. Some of us Adventures continued in Strahan and the A pleasant sail down the Derwent to the Iron withdraw. Even starting with plenty of time to the North West tip of Tasmania. were lucky to be tied up to the jetty, while Gordon River, with our shaft seal developing Pot, turned into a fast reach in 20-25 knots prepare “Magic”, our Beneteau Oceanis 351, others dinghied ashore to enjoy a feast around Cruise Commodore of the mainland fleet, past Cape Raoul, then up into Port Arthur. this proved to still require a bit of a rush at the a leak and requiring replacement – a bit scary the fire in the hut. Bill Newman, on Goggo led the way out of when you are way up the Gordon River and Once everyone was happily anchored, we end. We had a fright one afternoon, soon after Queenscliff in very comfortable conditions and a very long way from a slipway and spares. started exploring and over the next few days Russell & Natalie had arrived for sundowners, We undertook a shakedown cruise to Apollo we raised mainsails in a pleasant 10-12 knots Going below after a day in the dinghies up the most visited the Port Arthur settlement ruins. when an almighty roar started up that Bay and King Island in company with Bill & of North Easterly breeze and bright sunshine. of the cockpit. With a full set of clears to zip in Franklin River exploring, it was alarming when We sat here for a few days, held up by strong Julie Newman on Maatsuyker after Christmas sounded like an aircraft trying to land beside joining the dodger and bimini, we can be out Rae noticed that the floorboards were floating! winds from the North and West. At one time, Of course these perfect conditions didn’t last us. It turned out to be the wind generator, 2018 to rediscover our cruising skills and The “sinking party” is one of the highlights even though it was only blowing 10-15 knots and as the sun went down, the wind built from of the cold and wet (not at all like sitting on which although it had a seized bearing, rhythm and allow some practice with the of the trip, where the great camaraderie of in Stewarts Bay, just miles away at Tasman the East and as we cleared the protection the rail during ocean races). Morning dawned had succumbed to the 40 knots gusts and dinghy. Julie still breaks up laughing whenever the participants came to the fore once again. Island it was blowing 40 knots!. of the Prom, the seas built up from the stern with eased conditions and several yachts in decided to work again! With the bearing she describes how we landed in the water Offers of help came from all directions and in quarter, providing a rolly ride in strong winds close proximity, with everyone arriving within a protesting loudly, on advice from Russ, a wet This was then the story of the rest of the while trying to beat a wave to the beach in the no time an emergency pump, a compressor overnight. Angles were sailed to provide a couple of hours in Coulomb Bay. towel (which had come up on our anchor the cruise, picking the lull between fronts for dinghy. and wet vac and many hands appeared to smoother ride rather than running straight previous day) was deployed to tame the beast, the next hop up the coast. Unfortunately Drama unfolded shortly after, and in what assist in getting rid of the unwanted water in On February 23rd 2019 most of the mainland down the rhumb line, so we crossed paths with which was then secured to avoid a repeat this meant some very short stays in some is synonymous with the cruise, others the bilge (and most of the beer from the fridge, fleet arrived in Queenscliff early to allow for several yachts during the night. On Magic we performance. anchorages such as Wineglass Bay, and some flexibility in departure time for Tasmania. enjoyed being able to adjust sails (with furling immediately banded together to lend a hand just in case that was adding to the problem). On the longer passages, we got in the habit extended stays in others such as Beauty Point. Much of the waiting time was spent checking main and jib) from the safety and protection and resolve problems from simple to quite Russell, Alan, Stuart and others had no of being the “Dawn Patrol” , weighing anchor Although it is a lovely place, and the locals hesitation getting cold and wet helping. Again first and heading off generally about an hour couldn’t have been more welcoming or helpful, Bill Newman and the extended VDLC family in front of the rest of the fleet, to allow for our reflecting the fantastic hospitality we enjoyed came to the rescue. A phone call to a supplier slower motor-sailing speed. The fleet would throughout the whole cruise, after a week it in Hobart found the part, a friend picked it progressively overtake us during the day, was a bit like the Bermuda Triangle. up and passed it to the crew from another but we would arrive just behind them at the The VDLC is perfect for those who would boat that was coming to Strahan the next next anchorage. Being shallow draft meant like to do some more extended cruising, but day. So two days later we fitted it, while still this wasn’t usually a problem because even perhaps lack the experience or confidence in the water! Something I never would have though the anchorages were pretty full, we to do it alone. Sailing in an organised event contemplated on my own. could generally get in closer than others. With with a fleet of other boats, many with lots of a really good Sarca anchor and 70 metres Already Allways Sunday was being referred experience, provides a safe and supported of chain, we were never too worried about to as the rescue boat, with Russell “McGyver” way to enjoy the cruising experience, and dragging anchor, even when it was blowing Gerischer proving he could fix almost gain some skills and knowledge along the 30-40 knots. anything, and was always ready to help, to way. With the resources of the excellent ensure others were having a great time. Not The Dentrecastreaux Channel must be one anchorage guide, and the mandatory safety one to sit still for long, Russ was often seen of the best cruising grounds in the world, and requirements ensuring you and your vessel buzzing around in his dinghy, checking boats a week is nowhere near enough time to do it are well prepared, this cruise in company is an and helping others. justice. With great anchorages around every excellent way to visit Tasmania. corner, you are never far from another perfect Once Bill (with some clumsy assistance spot, whatever the weather. Goggo caught This part of Australia is a world class cruising from myself) had replaced the shaft seal, we enough flathead to feed the fleet, and one of destination, and the West Coast with the promptly had another party in the cockpit of Rae’s highlights of the entire cruise was our Gordon River and Port Davey some of the Magic, which was proving to be a very popular overnight stay in Missionary Bay. We took the most remote and dramatic wilderness you spot, for two reasons. One, it has a big ice dinghies ashore as the tide dropped in the will ever experience. Added to that is the chest in the cockpit table, and two, it has full afternoon, to search for oysters on the rocks at experience of sharing it with old and new covers so we can fit a lot of people in the the waterline. With a fire built, the rocks were friends, making it truly unforgettable. cockpit and keep dry, and the weather was a placed in the embers, cooking the oysters to bit wet. perfection. You can’t get any fresher than that! Rae and Steve Hassell

28 Royal Geelong Yacht Club Corinthian 2019 Royal Geelong Yacht Club Corinthian 2019 29 RGYC St Ayles Skiff Program

With two St Ayles Skiffs now completed and skiffs will also compete with the other thirty St available to RGYC members and visitors Ayles Skiffs in Australia at regattas (including from our grass area and a third well on its the ‘Spirit of St Ayles Cup’ at our own Wooden way, we are on the verge of a new chapter of Boat Festival), distance and over-night river on-water activity for our club and the Geelong touring (“raiding” in St Ayles Skiff parlance) community. and off-shore fun from sheltered beaches. Peter Doyle has been leading a team of RGYC They are also a wonderful platform for regular members and other skilled helpers to engage health and fitness training. Geelong’s many ‘Cultural and Language- Royal Geelong Yacht Club is a foundation Diverse’ (CALD) communities in building and supporter of this program as it adds a new then using ten of these beautiful Scottish dimension to the future of our club. It presents off-shore rowing boats. The goal is to establish a new activity for existing members and an active St Ayles Skiff building and rowing leverages our prime waterfront position to scene which draws together people from many attract new members who are not sailors. It cultures and backgrounds in building and then also plays directly to the club’s obligation to mucking around in boats. So far, the program our Safe Harbour funders that we will be more has seen mixed build-teams of Christian Iraqis, Muslim Persians, Indians, Pakistanis and open to the community. Nigerians all under the guidance of refugees History shows that one of the club’s leaders in from the Royal Geelong Yacht Club! the late 1800’s, Sir Charles Sladen, instigated The mucking around will see the boats the first regatta on Corio Bay and was one of used for a range of activities. While being the Stewards. Sir Charles set a condition that available for use at any time, the organised rowing events would always be included in skiff program will see them on the water for the regattas. While it’s taken us a while, the members, guests and visitors for social rowing advent of the St Ayles Skiffs sees us finally every Sunday morning from October 13th. The complying!

30 Royal Geelong Yacht Club Corinthian 2019 Royal Geelong Yacht Club Corinthian 2019 31 Alpha Presentation

Special Presentation: Division 3: Division 1: Presentation to Commodore John Kint of the Royal Diamond Belle - Jonathan Apted Larriken 2 - Darren Pickering Melbourne Yacht Squadron “140 Years on Port 1st: Aggregate: Dr Kennedy Beta Tray 1st: Aggregate: Howard Hitchcock Perpetual Shield Phillip“ book. Presented by Jan Jones on behalf of 1st: Club Course Races: Poldi Steel Trophy 1st: W/L Races: Coca Cola Shield RGYC Women in Sailing 1st: Mixed Course Races: Bruce Henderson Tray 1st: Club Course Races: W.H.(Jockey) Jones Festival of Sails 2019: 1st: W/L Races Perpetual Trophy 1st: Summer Mini Series 1st: Races 1, 11, 22 Series: Nelson Cup Cardinal Puff - Jeremy Capon 2nd: Post Christmas Twilights 1st: Last Race of the Season: Club Captain’s Trophy Best Performed RGYC yacht over the 2019 FOS: 2nd: Twilights and the Striproll Trophy 1st: Tuff Marine Series: Tuff Marine Trophy Mayflower Trophy 3rd: Non Aggregate Series 1st: Twilights: Victorian Regional Channels Authority Kavala - Dave Ruffin Revolution - Peter Stephens Trophy Best Performed RGYC yacht in the 2019 FOS 2nd: Aggregate: Nhilla Cup 1st: Pre Christmas Twilights: Victorian Regional Passage Race: Lionel Windsor Trophy 1st: Mixed Course Races: Bruce Henderson Tray Channels Authority Trophy Goggo - Bill Newman (Shared) 2nd: Post Christmas Twilights Best Performed RGYC yacht in the 2019 FOS Fleurieu Warrior - Trevor Brown Vitesse - Scott Farrimond Passage Race: Myer Emporium Tray 3rd: Aggregate 2nd: Aggregate Women in Sailing: 1st: TWL Races: Niola Cup 1st: Selected Races Series: Cutty Sark Perpetual 1st: Race 12: Bruce Henderson Trophy Trophy Diamond Belle - Helen Wallace 1st: Last Race of the Season: Club Captain’s Trophy Extasea - Paul Buchholz 1st: Womens Helm Race: Montgomery Family Trophy and the Striproll Trophy 1st: IRC 2nd: Gannet Cup Race 1st: TWL Races: E H (Eustace) Wilson Memorial VX Ones: 2nd: Queenscliff Race Trophy 1st: Mixed Course Races: Kevin Morrison Trophy Slick - Brian Case 2nd: Two Handed Series 1st: Race 2: Lorna Anderson Trophy 1st: VX One Aggregate 3rd: Tuff Marine Series 1st: Post Christmas Twilights Most raced boat of the season: Race Committee Public Enemy - Jarrod Wallis 1st: Twilight Races 5 & 15 Series: Foundation Shield Trophy 2nd: VX One Aggregate 1st: Portarlington Race: H P Douglass Shield KC - Kim Clarke 6 Foot 10 - Geoff Baum 2nd: Twilights 3rd: VX One Aggregate 1st: Portarlington Race: British Paints Trophy 2nd: AMS Onda - Gian Paolo Macolino 3rd: Aggregate Etchells: 3rd: Queenscliff Race Local Mocean – Stuart Richardson Wicked - Rod Hagebols 1st: Glover Cup Race: Josh Glover Cup 1st: Etchells Aggregate: Capt A D McPherson Tray Division 2: 3rd: AMS 1st: Etchells Handicap Aggregate: Apted Cup The Usual Suspects - Daryl Speakman Phoenix - Jennifer Carnell 1st: Etchells Post Christmas Series: Harold Troon 1st: AMS: Sir Winston Churchill Perpetual Trophy Perpetual Cup 1st: Aggregate: Sea Wren Cup 1st: Club Course Races 2nd: IRC The Moe Szyslak Experience - Tony Mackenzie 1st: Last Race of the Season: Club Captain’s Trophy Spirit - Dale Robertson 2nd: Etchells Aggregate & the Striproll Trophy 1st: Race 12: Wilfred Libby Memorial Trophy 1st: Pre Christmas Series: Martini Marine Perpetual 1st: Non Aggregate Series Trophy Razors Edge - Paul Loughnan 3rd: AMS 3rd: Two Handed Series Voodoo Spirit - Guyon Wilson Buck - Stirling Parker & Gary Foley 3rd: Etchells Aggregate 2nd: Aggregate: Betty Cole Perpetual Trophy Special Awards Corio Cruisers: 2nd: AMS The Lofty (Syd) Thomas Award 1st: TWL Races: John Collins Cup Baltic - Peter Bone The most enthusiastic volunteer in the Sailability Gentlemen’s Relish - John Mackay 1st: Aggregate: J.A. Fitzgerald Tray program 3rd: Aggregate David Purnell Bundaberg - John Kint 1st: Mixed Course Races: Arthur Collins Warroo Cup 2nd: Aggregate: Licensed Victuallers Trophy 1st: W/L Races: Beta Cup 1st: Gannet Cup Race: Gannet Cup The Bolle Trophy 1st: Portarlington Race: W H MacKinlay Cup – 3rd: Twilights For any achievement which promotes sailing as a Killarra Trophy 3rd: Post Christmas Twilights sport of fun and personal or group development not 3rd: Summer Mini Series Joan D’Arc - Douglas Gaylard driven by commercial interest or abnormal finance Déjà vu - Bill Lodge 1st: Twilights Bill Newman 3rd: Aggregate: Corio Cruiser Bowl 1st: Post Christmas Twilights 1st: Pre-Christmas Twilights: Victorian Regional The William Smith Board Allora - Paul Smedley Channels Authority Trophy For the best found and maintained boat on the Club 2nd: Non Aggregate Series register Reverie - Ian Hunter Panache - Michael Melican 1st: Race 12: Mistral 111 Bowl The Usual Suspects, Daryl Speakman 1st: Queenscliff Race: Murray McAllister Trophy Spirit of Rani - Phil Francis Time Out - Lovro Ljubanovic The W.H. Thacker Memorial Shield 1st: Last Race of the Season: Club Captain’s Trophy 1st: AMS For the member considered to be the most 1st: Portarlington Race: Geelong Media Trophy and 2nd: Summer Mini Series enthusiastic for the season 3rd: Gannet Cup Race the Mayfair Perpetual Trophy Laura Cora Macolino Lupa Wylo - Geoff Sadler The Ugly Uncles - Geoff Newman 3rd: Post Christmas Twilights 1st: Twilight Races 5 & 15 Series: Foundation Shield The Verfurth Trophy Vivacite - Roger McLennan Two Farr - Will Baum For the member who (in the opinion of the Board) 1st: Corio Cruisers Combined Races: Kan Walker 1st: Two Handed Series makes the most outstanding contribution to yachting H28 Trophy 2nd: Tuff Marine Series during the year 1st: Long Races: Kevin Bell Trophy 3rd: Twilights Mike Kelly

32 Royal Geelong Yacht Club Corinthian 2019 Royal Geelong Yacht Club Corinthian 2019 33 Australian Women’s Women’s Helm Race Keelboat Regatta 2019 The annual Women’s Helm Race, with 5 rudder on the second leg, retired from the race Thank you to our race officers for the day, yachts entered, set sail in approximately 15 and then had to work out how to get back to Linda Carr and John Garner and thank you to Our third day saw wind gusting up to 30 knots On Day Three many parts of Port Phillip Bay knots of wind. Baltic, Reverie, Diamond Belle, the club. All returned safely. Alison Weatherly who put together the sailing Royal Geelong Yacht Club Ca Bouge and Onda all had a fantastic start instructions for the race. at times. Unfortunately we ripped the main and experienced lighter breezes, but soon it was Congratulations to the winners, Helen Wallace with spinnakers flying. Reverie broke their takes on the 2019 AWKR had to retire. coming in at just over 20 knots with gusts in and her crew on Diamond Belle. the low 30’s on the race course. With two Thanks to all the crew, and helpers along Our growing list of competitive sailors tell S80’s to beat to secure our position, race 6, the way who got us to the regatta: Howard their stories of this year’s Australian Women’s the final race of the series had to be a good Hughes, Don Sellars driving Avril and Jan Keelboat Regatta held at Royal Melbourne one. We sailed well for the first half of the race up to St Kilda, Gian (G.P.) Macolino for Yacht Squadron on June 8 – 10. but up the second beat problems with the sailing the boat up to Melbourne and back to reefing line and outhaul meant we had to drop Geelong, Ray Goodwin, Billy Parker, Peter the main and finish under headsail only. Baile De Luna - J 24 Kirman and Emma Powell. A huge thank you Our final result for the event was equal 3rd to Paul Loughnan for being our sponsor and on points but 4th on count back. We were all supporting the Australian Women’s Keelboat happy with how we had performed given the Regatta 2019.” high calibre of the fleet and we thoroughly The Adventures of Le enjoyed the event. Cascadeur at AWKR Ca Bouge Liah Hunter skippered her newly painted Four Royal Geelong members, Lucy Townson, boat with an RGYC crew, who wanted to Sue Harman, Kate Wylie and Susannah Gillam compete in the event for the experience. crewed on Le Cascadeur, a Hobsons Bay The crew consisted of Liah Hunter, Helen boat skippered by Leo Eeckman (also from Wallace, Michelle Donlen, Mim Glasby, Cara Hobsons Bay) at the AWKR. Derbyshire, Claire Formby, Jodie Roberts, A variable northerly on Day One was an Maree Moloney & Svetlana Pashchenko. Jan Jones, Avril Sellars, Laura Cora Macolino opportunity to learn how to work together and Georgina Scarborough took one of Sailing in Division 1, the women had their effectively and try out the full set of headsails RGYC’s J24’s to the northern reaches of Port hands full with a big fast boat in the strong and spinnakers. conditions. The traveller broke on day two but Phillip Bay for this event. Jan reports: By Day Two the boat felt good through the rapid repairs were made between races. “On our first day of racing on RGYC’s Baile De water, crew communication was effective and A torn mainsail on the last day put paid to Luna we came 15th out of 22 boats as it was sound decisions were made. Overall, the team a potentially good result but quick action our first time sailing together and learning what was working well to utilize the strengths of from the crew not only avoided more serious each of us could do. everyone on board. By the end of five races damage but also ensured that other boats Le Cascadeur was in third place for AMS in weren’t hampered in their pursuit of results. The second day we put it together by coming Division 2, with two S80’s in strong contention Evidently some good skills and experience 5th and 6th and we all were happy with that. for high placings. on display.

34 Royal Geelong Yacht Club Corinthian 2019 Royal Geelong Yacht Club Corinthian 2019 35 Off the Beach Sailing

Off the Beach at RGYC enjoyed another Christmas and, specifically Christmas night, In addition to the much-anticipated physical vibrant year through the 2018-1019 season. saw the Spirit of Tasmania full of sailing boats changes at RGYC, the Club is investing in Beginning with the Opening Day in September of all classes heading to the Apple Isle for the training and skill acquisition. This is a multi through the Aggregate racing series to the various Nationals. The Cadets and Optis were year program with courses in First Aid, mark Presentation Night, each Class grew in stature based in Sandy Bay, the Lasers in Devonport. laying, VHF radio, motor boat handling, safety and skill. boat handling and instruction in both being RGYC were proud to contribute to the Tillet offered to members. Highlights of the season started even before Cup victory for Victoria and delighted to Opening Day with a successful Springsail contribute three skippers and crews to the It is expected that this will expand the race Regatta and coaching weekend which Australian team for the International Cadet management skills at the Club to confidently attracted over 120 boats. This is always a World Championship in Poland. Team Coach, host the many planned regattas. In concert great start to the sailing season. Tony Bull, led the team to Poland and returned with this is the substantial investment in new with strong showings from our young sailors. support vessels for race operations. Optimists had spent some of the Winter We also saw Optimist sailors being selected season in training at Albert Park. Under Though it will prove challenging at times, it is to compete and represent Australia at a high the guidance of Brian Case, assisted by anticipated that the Club’s building program level in South East Asia, New Caledonia and enthusiastic parents, they were a constant will encourage greater participation and later in the season, France. feature of racing on Saturdays and Sunday encourage a growth in membership. afternoons. As the days grew longer, Tuesday It is a credit to the junior sailors to see them Springsail will begin the new sailing season evenings found them out on the water. invited to participate in Etchells and keel boat and the next big event will be close to racing during the Festival of Sails. There are, The Cadet fleet grew to a maximum of 17 Christmas with the International Cadet of course, two larger vessels, J24s, available boats. Cadets are always a strong class Nationals followed by large Laser and ‘9er/ at the Club. The new, cool VX1 sports boats in Geelong and the senior skippers were Nacra Regattas. All these certainly highlight grew to a fleet of five very quickly. It is great to determined to make their mark in regattas the ambition of the Club and the confidence it see them in full flight across the bay. around the Bay and later for the Nationals in has in sailing now and into the future. Tasmania. The fundraising efforts were aided by the The foreshore and Corio Bay are looking “Italian Night”. This supposed once off event The mixed fleet of Contenders, Tasers, 420, forward to the next season with even more has now been successfully held on five 29ers and Sabres were joined by an ever- sails and sailing. occasions and perhaps will become a regular expanding fleet of Lasers, now regularly function each season. It seems to be one of numbering 15. Diarmuid McCoy the must-be-seen-at dinners and deservedly Chairman, OTB Working Group The combined fleet was managed on Saturday so. Much appreciation to all involved. The afternoons by Steve Nuenhoffer, Nina, Roger, annual Trivia Night, Silent Auction and Bravo Arthur and supported in the radio room by Ray. Presentation Night rounded out an excellent We extend our gratitude to all for facilitating season. racing.

36 Royal Geelong Yacht Club Corinthian 2019 Royal Geelong Yacht Club Corinthian 2019 37 Bravo Presentation

Cadet Class Naval Auxiliary Patrol Perpetual - Best in National LASER B E Purnell Trophy - 1st State Championship Championship Cameron Dawson Ford - 1st Smooth Criminal - Jarrah Harris-Moore - Evie Sparkle - Emma Kelly - William Farnell Yardstick results McDonald Mi Te Salty - Campbell Scott Neil R Ritchie Cadet Captains Bowl - 1st WLT Fleet C.H.Fleet Perpetual - Most improved skipper Handicap Geoff Wood Perpetual - 1st Handicap Lulu Di Sciascio Need For Speed - Molly Grimes - James Smith - 1st Handicap Mi Te Salty - Campbell Scott Deakin Wordly Perpetual Cadet - (one trophy only) OTB Committee Trophy - Crews Award - Skipper Evie McDonald Club Yardstick results Sparkle - Emma Kelly Mi Te Salty - Campbell Scott OTB Committee Trophy - Sailor most worthy who has Slammer - Chris Jones Deakin Wordly Perpetual Cadet - (one trophy only) not received a championship placing Fascination - Clive Humphris - Crew Imogen Farnell Sparkle - William Farnell - skipper only Club Handicap results OTB Committee Trophy - Encouragement Award - Mi Te Salty - Campbell Scott Doug Hocking Perpetual - 1st Fleet Handicap Nom. Georgia Delaney Alexandrite - Alexander Gregory Race Redlands Trophy - National Championship Co-Ed Fascination - Clive Humphris Anaconda - Elliot Hughes - Charlie Haigh team Sparkle - Emma Kelly - William Farnell MIXED CLASS E.J.Fairnie Perpetual Cup - 1st Championship Ross Heyward Perpetual - 1st Handicap Robin Robbins Perpetual - 1st Fleet Handicap Last Skipper Mi Te Salty - Campbell Scott Race Sparkle - Emma Kelly Waroo Perpetual - 1st Yardstick results Aquilo - Cooper Field - Tom Grimes Makani - Sophie Alexander - Dom Randall G.M ‘Gar’ Vautier RAAF Memorial Trophy - Cadet Ruth Plummer Club Member Award - Cadet whose Member declared the best for the season Yardstick results activities embody the spirit of the Cadet fellowship - Jarrah Harris-Moore Makani - Sophie Alexander - Dom Randall Milli McDonald Slammer - Chris Jones Garner Crews Race Perpetual - 1st Crew Race Mi Te Salty - Campbell Scott Assassin - Emma Williamson Searle Bros Perpetual - 1st Handicap Need For Speed - Molly Grimes - James Smith Handicap results Geoff “SOOS” Spedding Perpetual - 1st Fleet Mi Te Salty - Campbell Scott Senior Members Cadet Race - 1st Place (2018-19) Handicap Special Race Vivid - John Henderson Aquilo - Liam Robinson - Cooper Field Little Devil - Georgia Delaney - Ashley Delaney Fascination - Clive Humphris

Gordon Jackson Memorial Cup - Best found, Senior Members Cadet Race - 1st Place prepared & maintained boat Zeus - Brendan Garner - Sam Williamson OPTIMIST CLASS Anaconda A K Lloyd Trophy - 1st Club Championship Tasman II - 2nd Championship OTB Committee Trophy - Encouragement Award - Sam Henderson Gordon Jackson Perpetual - Maiden Skipper - Smooth Criminal - Jarrah Harris-Moore - Evie Caitlin Murgatroyd McDonald Championship results The Albatross - Mason Mahoney Gordon Jackson Perpetual Cup - 1st Championship Tillet Trophy - Winning State in Nationals - Victoria Top Gear - Khan Harris Moore Crew W L Curtis Perpetual - Best in FOS Frank - Riley Cantwell Sparkle - William Farnell Smooth Criminal - Jarrah Harris-Moore - Evie Heath Championship Perpetual - Red Division Crew McDonald - Not Awarded 2018-19 Handicap results Landfall Perpetual - 1st Single Handed Race Club Championship results Frank - Riley Cantwell Assassin - Imogen Farnell Sparkle - Emma Kelly - William Farnell Pirate - Oliver Beretta Smooth Criminal - Jarrah Harris-Moore - Evie Serendipity - Jorja Mahoney Mackinlay Cup - 1st WL Fleet Handicap McDonald Wildcard - Lulu Di Sciascio - Charley Stephens Wildcard - Lulu Di Sciascio - Charley Stephens YOUTH MIXED John Sykes Perpetual - Encouragement Award - Club Handicap results Margaret & David Wane Perpetual - 1st Red Division Dominic Randall - Not Awarded 2018-19 Need For Speed - Molly Grimes - James Smith Wildcard - Lulu Di Sciascio - Charley Stephens Mermaid Perpetual Tropy - Best performed skipper in OTB Committee - Encouragement Award - Not National Championship Awarded 2018-19 Sparkle - Emma Kelly Fireball Yardstick results Bryan Inns Perpetual Trophy - National Makani - Sophie Alexander - Dom Randall Mermaid Perpetual Tropy - Best performed skipper Championship 1st Handicap State Championship Orinoco - Nathan Field - Jarrah Harris-Moore Shake n Bake - Gabriel Nolan - Ben Townson Smooth Criminal - Jarrah Harris-Moore

38 Royal Geelong Yacht Club Corinthian 2019 Royal Geelong Yacht Club Corinthian 2019 39 Cadet Worlds Poland 2019

I recently had the privilege of coaching the The other issue we had to come to terms with Australian International Cadet Team at the was the propensity of the Race Committee World Championship in Krynica Morska, to lay very biased lines toward the pin or far Poland. end. It was not uncommon to see 80% of the fleet on port tack within a minute of the start. Royal Geelong Yacht Club was well Bravo Training All the starts sported the black flag which represented with 5 sailors in the 14 member means if you are over the line at any time in team. Skills AND Fun! the last minute of the starting sequence, you The trip consisted of a few days’ training at are automatically disqualified. This naturally the venue followed by the Polish National enough makes the fleet very nervous. But it is Championship, with 120 boats competing. It the same for every boat and I was very proud was a huge learning curve for all. of the way our sailors adapted to the different Sailing activities on Bravo course constitute Our sailors range from 8 years old through to year and the Lasers are also becoming very skill requirements. a large part of the RGYC program. With so 16 and we encourage all who have done the active with multiple championships coming up We then competed in the World Championship Congratulations to all on the way you sailed many young sailors coming through, training is Discover Sailing courses to come down and over the next few years at RGYC. Some more proper. To get two boats into the top ten was and conducted yourselves. an important component of our Off the Beach really get into sailing. Our junior sailors coming programs may be in the wind to cater for our testament to our sailors embracing of The regatta was very shifty wind-wise. As one To the parents, supporters and sponsors on activities. through these programs have competed all ever growing fleet. of our parents described it, “Big, persistent the challenges. All our sailors had some behalf of the team. I cannot thank you enough. Junior sailors have access to a set range over the world. The program at RGYC is based on alternating shift then changing to oscillating with some encouraging results. The support of RGYC Members is also greatly of training and coaching programs in the On top of these formal courses, a free skill acquisition and high performance geographical influences overlaid.” No wonder The RGYC component of the Australian team International Optimist and International coaching session is run every Friday night sessions, but the main aim is simply to get out appreciated. Thanks in particular to Paul it was hard sailing! The Race Committee did very well with Elliot Hughes and Olive Cadet under Jasmin Galbraith and Tony Bull in season and it is open to all classes and and have fun!! Loughnan at European Affair. The team looked managed to get in our full quota of 12 races Hooper (on loan from Sandy Bay Sailing Club) respectively. Our two premier dinghy classes sailors. Come along and try it out! very smart in your wonderful gift of spray tops which was well done in light of the conditions. winning Heat 11 to jump up into ninth overall. provide a nice contrast as single and double The future looks bright with up to 5 and gear bags. Congratulations to the new World Champions, Well done and congratulations to them. Our handed (one or two people) options. International 29ers expected in the fleet this Julian Finterbusch and Franco Barone who best performing Aussie boat was Hugo Alison To RGYC Past Commodore, Mike Kelly, our hail from Argentina. They sailed very well over and James Gough from Tasmania. Team Manager, a fantastic effort mate. The the range of conditions. The other RGYC Members’ results. whole adventure was so well structured and organised. It was a delight to work with you. Sailing at this regatta was in quite foreign and Emma Kelly and Will Farnell: 26th, including a extremely tough conditions. The European third place in Heat 3 and a great first day but The social aspect of these events is so big and lakes, although large, are quite shallow and the lighter conditions and sloppy waves meant the whole group (sailors and supporters) were a short chop quickly builds up and makes the it was hard going. It was a very commendable able to make new friends and catch up with old going pretty tough. In Australia we sail in much effort. ones. It was hard to say goodbye, but that is deeper waters and it takes more wind to build how a junior regatta should be. up a comparable sea state which even then is Jarrah Harris-Moore and Evie McDonald: 36th. much more regular in its wave action. Once again, a heavier crew. (These kids keep On a personal level it is such an honour to growing!) It was their last regatta together be involved and I thank all our sailors for These conditions in particular had an impact and whilst it was not perfect, they have a lot their support and confidence. I hope for the on our heavier crews as it was harder for them to be proud of, being the current Victorian in the constant acceleration / deceleration opportunity to coach some of you again and Champions. factor. We were also much more static in to enjoy watching others grow, both on and off our body movements whilst sailing up and Over on the Promotional course we had the water. downwind. The crews and countries which skipper Milli McDonald and crew, Emma Suda Signing off with humble gratitude, did well were much more dynamic in rocking (Sandringham YC) come away with fifth overall and ooching their boats through the water. including a 1st and 2nd in the regatta. Nice! Tony Bull

40 Royal Geelong Yacht Club Corinthian 2019 Royal Geelong Yacht Club Corinthian 2019 41 Italian Dinner Car Cruise

White Night

Fishing Comp Photo Credit: Visit Victoria

Photo Credit: Visit Victoria Photo Credit: Visit Victoria

42 Royal Geelong Yacht Club Corinthian 2019 Royal Geelong Yacht Club Corinthian 2019 43 RGYC Hosts Springsail

Our popular pre-season regatta and training is a good indicator of the health of Off The International Cadet: event was held on 22nd - 25th September. Beach sailing and the willingness of RGYC 2nd Anaconda E Hughes volunteers to support this part of our sport. 4th Smooth Criminal J Harris Moore, The sailing events and training sessions E McDonald attracted 124 entries from numerous clubs RGYC placings: around the Bay and beyond. Our race Laser – 2nd Swoosh M Parks Mixed Fleet: management team operated the events with 2nd Assassin M. Case, S. Case Optimist – 4th Turbo M Purnell their usual efficiency and the training sessions 3rd Makani S. Alexander, D Randall were well received. The popularity of this event

44 Royal Geelong Yacht Club Corinthian 2019 Royal Geelong Yacht Club Corinthian 2019 45 Volunteers Report The Power Behind The Events

Royal Geelong Yacht Club thrives on the our volunteers is a challenge that can only be experience, areas of interest and availability. energy and skills of its volunteers working in met by recruiting more, younger participants. We have numerous events throughout the all areas of the Club. The positive response of large numbers of year and the system will provide a consistent, Members to the training courses has been The RGYC Board, a team of volunteers, works efficient approach to rostering yet still retain very welcome and it reflects part of the to meet short, medium and long term needs the personal contact with the volunteers recruitment strategy. of the Club so that our facilities are the best through the RGYC Office and volunteer we can afford and our activities meet the Event operations are the essential activities team leaders. Visit rgyc.com.au and go to challenges of the changing world of sailing carried out by volunteers and staff that ensure the Volunteers section on the Home page to and boating. The demands of developing that all the equipment is sufficient for the task register. and implementing the Geelong Waterfront and in the right place at the right time. The Club Members, event competitors and Safe Harbour Precinct Project are the most adaptability of the people involved in these significant the Board has ever faced. The tasks is a key quality underpinned by their visitors acknowledge the success of our Board’s work is supported by the many sound teamwork. large volunteer team, especially those who committee members who work in specific contribute to the weekly sailing programs that areas such as Yard and Marina, Governance Community activities run by volunteers are are at the heart of the Club. and Off the Beach. important to the Club and its place in this city. We share the waterfront with all who visit us It is clear that volunteers also benefit from their The Race Management Team is able to and we are recognized for what we contribute participation in our events. Volunteering is fun provide the services to our sailing events at through events such as the Festival of Sails, and there are substantial health benefits from club level and for regattas of championship the Wooden Boat Festival, Gala Day Parade, working in teams or individually on meaningful standard. Our Sailing and Boating Committee Sailing for the Vision Impaired, Sailability and activities. knows that we are able to improve skills try sailing events. through training. A significant effort is being Why not become a volunteer at this great club? made to increase training opportunities for RGYC is introducing a volunteer management all who would like to be part of an expanding system that enables people to register with Chris Williams event calendar. The increasing age profile of the Club on line and nominate their skills, Volunteers Committee Chairman

46 Royal Geelong Yacht Club Corinthian 2019 Royal Geelong Yacht Club Corinthian 2019 47 Sailing Report

Limeburners Point Laser Sailing Club Australia to Fiji Shorthanded Yacht Race 2018

As reported widely in the sailing media: “The open to all yachts carrying a Laser on deck family members on board before heading to leading yacht is nearing the halfway stage of and is a handicap event factoring the elapsed Bundaberg over the following ten days. Frant the inaugural Limeburners Point Laser Sailing time divided by distance from port of departure completed the return to Geelong sailing solo. Club Australia to Fiji Shorthanded Yacht Race. plus the Laser’s result in the Oceania The trip was so enjoyable that Frant and his “Anaconda Australia”, a Beneteau First 44.7 Championships. There may also be a cycling crew will head for Fiji again on September with Laser “Anaconda 208323” strapped to the leg incorporated provided the bike is carried 13th. Frant will compete in the Laser Masters deck, as sole entrant, is set for line honours on board with the Laser. from October 9th and then with family on and an impressive race record. Trophies of recycled “old school” Laser cubes board cruise the outer islands and return to the Skipper Frant Bucek said, “We have punched will be awarded.” East coast over a month. out a few 200 nm days in pretty trying close- Frant and Anaconda with crew Marcel Bucek Anaconda’s adventures show that you could reaching conditions to set ourselves up for (as far as Eden) and Greg Williams left cruise Tasmania one year and Fiji the next some fast motor sailing when the breeze drops RGYC on September 22nd and made the over a similar time. Cruising Fiji will definitely out and swings onto the nose”. run to Fiji in time for the regatta on October be warmer! The race, coinciding with the inaugural Fiji 13th. Anaconda then did a four day cruise Oceania Laser Masters Championship, is in the nearby islands with some additional

VX1 Class The Excitement Machine

Season 2018/19 saw the establishment of the The VX1 is a very simple to rig and light boat The future for the VX1 looks very bright as VX1 Class which drew a lot of attention for all to transport and many of the Geelong fleet more sailors are seeking the speed and ease the right reasons. This exciting and very fast have found themselves competing in QLD, of handling of these yachts combined with sports boat created some very memorable NSW and the ACT during the summer. This very competitive racing and a fantastic social action while new teams got to know these fleet is on the move in more ways than one. program. It’s a Class suitable for all age modern racers. groups. Crews in the National Championship RGYC was also fortunate to hold the VX1 RGYC also hosted the Victorian Championship ranged from young Optimist sailors to highly National Championship during the Festival of earlier in the season which brought three experienced sailors in their seventies. Sails where 27 boats faced the start line. It boats to Geelong from the ACT for an intense Notably, three of the Geelong fleet are family was a spectacular sight and a fantastic event five races. combinations, another indicator of how for the Club and the five RGYC teams found successful this class will become. the competition tough but hugely rewarding. The Geelong VX1 fleet has been actively promoting the class with Open Days where Keep an eye out for the next ‘VX1 Come and It was terrific having an American team RGYC members have been taken out for Try Day’ and join in the fun. compete and Sandra Askew (USA) has a sail to get a great feel for speed and become a friend to the Geelong fleet. Sandra and her husband also own Wizard, the recent modern sailing. These events have been well winner of the Fastnet ocean race. supported by the Club.

48 Royal Geelong Yacht Club Corinthian 2019 Royal Geelong Yacht Club Corinthian 2019 49 Sailing on the Lakes RGYC at the Yachting Western Victoria Regatta at Lake Bullen Merri Easter 2019

Every year over the Easter break, Yachting and some support crew. The site opens on Racing on a lake is always a lot of fun and very Western Victoria puts on an event for all Thursday and Past Commodore John Garner challenging but the racing is just a part of what types of OTB and trailable boats. For the past is always first in line to set up a great camping makes this regatta so great. Sitting around the few years the regatta has been held at the spot and fly the RGYC club burgee. camp fires with friends telling sailing stories of wonderful location of Lake Bullen Merri in The weather was magnificent and with a years past is always a highlight. Camping with Camperdown. The lake is an inactive volcano great initiative to allow juniors free entry, the and extremely deep. As always, several RGYC friends, family with like-minded fellow yachties numbers were up on previous years to 70 members ventured down to Lake Bullen Merri ensures a fun, safe environment for people of boats. The RGYC contingent made up a good this year to participate in both the regatta and all ages. percentage of that with 22 boats, and a few the camaraderie. crewing on boats from other clubs. RGYC The kids (and sometimes big kids) get out The main regatta runs from Good Friday to had 5 Fireballs, 5 International Cadets, 4 OK on the water skurfing, skim biscuiting, water Easter Sunday with a special stern chaser Dinghies, (including keel boat legend Paul skiing, wind surfing and stand up paddle race in memory of Jake Lane held on Easter Bucholz), a Sabre, an Aero, a 29er, 2 Lasers, boarding to take part in some of the post-race Monday. The stern chaser handicaps are an Opti, a VX One and a Maricat. We also had activities enjoyed by many. Others prefer to calculated over the regatta. The sailing two support craft for post sailing activities and conditions vary through the ranges and on water refreshments. grab their camp chair, stoke the fire and relax direction, sometimes all within the one leg. with a beverage of choice. Either way there is The divisions for the event were broken down The saying “The race isn’t over till it’s over”, something for everyone. into five categories, plus the RL24 state titles. is definitely true here. While it can be shifty Fast cats, slow cats, fast monohulls, slow I know we will definitely be there next year. on the lake, the race committee always do a monohulls and juniors. RGYC featured well in stellar job of the running the races. So, do yourself a favour and lock it in your the monohull and juniors’ results. Full results calendar. Easter is the only time of the year camping can be found on the Yachting Western Victoria is allowed here and only for competitors Facebook page. Brendan Garner

50 Royal Geelong Yacht Club Corinthian 2019 Royal Geelong Yacht Club Corinthian 2019 51 Past Commodores’ Dinner In Memory Of…

It is with great sadness and regret that we record the passing during the year of the following esteemed members:

James Garward Greg Salt Adrian Kelly Joined 1956 Joined 1962 Joined 1951 ROMA HILL Jean Lucas William Norris Joined 1960 Joined 1953 Joined 1990 Thomas Lancaster Joined 1981 RGYC Staff and Sub-Commit tees

This year, we have welcomed new additions to our staff team - Emma Powell, Nathan Bassett, Rob McLay and Sarah Pettiford.

CURRENT RGYC STAFF RGYC SUB-COMMITTEES

General Manager – Phil Clohesy As well as the RGYC Board, a number of sub-committees work tirelessly throughout the year to ensure that the Club continues to run Marina Manager – Paul Walters smoothly and is continuing to give our Members the best possible Marina Assistant – Graeme Chapman experience. We thank all of those who have volunteered their time and efforts on each of the sub-committees in 2018/19. Marina Assistant – Daniel McDonald Strategic & Events Planning Sailing & Boating Manager – Peter Kirman Chair: Phil Francis Sailing & Volunteers Administrator Assistant – Emma Powell Governance Major Events Manager – Nathan Bassett Chair: Past Commodore Chris Williams Finance Major Events Administrator – Sarah Todd Chair: Past Commodore Treasurer Brian Marshman Commercial Partnerships Manager – Steve Hassell Workplace Health & Safety Club Operations Administrator – Libbee Roddis Chair: Phil Heath Sailing and Boating Marketing & Communications Coordinator – Sarah Pettiford Chair: Club Captain Roger Bennett Finance Manager – Rob McLay Yard & Marina Chair: Chris Manton Accounts Administrator – Ann Hardy Volunteers Chair: Past Commodore Chris Williams Festival of Sails Chair: Vice Commodore Stuart Dickson Off The Beach Chair: Diarmuid McCoy Sailability Our most senior Past Commodore, Ron Earney Paul Buchholz elected as Honorary Life Member Chair: Graeme Ritchie with Commodore John Kint

52 Royal Geelong Yacht Club Corinthian 2019 Royal Geelong Yacht Club Corinthian 2019 53 RGYC 2019/20 Summer of Sailing Major Events Calendar

Springsail Saturday 21st September – Tuesday 24th September 2019

Cadet National Championship Friday 27th December 2019 – Saturday 4th January 2020

Festival of Sails Saturday 25th January – Monday 27th January 2020

49er / 49er FX / Nacra 17 Oceania Championships (Incorporating Sail Melbourne & the Australian National Championships) Wednesday 30th January – Monday 3nd February 2020

49er / 49er FX / Nacra 17 World Championships Thursday 6th February – Saturday 15th February 2020

The Wooden Boat Festival of Geelong Friday 6th March – Monday 9th March 2020

Laser Masters Oceania & National ChampionshipS Friday 13th March – Wednesday 18th March 2020

Laser Masters World Championship Thursday 19th March – Saturday 28th March 2020

54 Royal Geelong Yacht Club Corinthian 2019 Royal Geelong Yacht Club Corinthian 2019 55 Founded in 1859