RQYS MAINSHEET 2023

Chief Executive Officer’s report

A Squadron of remarkable individuals After another year of outstanding on-water performances by our sailors, we have many stories to tell in this edition.

For many of you, and myself in particular, it seems like the last 12 months have passed in the blink of an eye, and I feel that in many respects it has been a very good and successful year for the Squadron and what we have achieved together, observes Karen Baldwin.

Probably one of the most exciting things was finally getting a start on the construction of the Long House and Pavillion at Canaipa. I know it has only just started — and it won’t be finished until late March/early April 2024 — but we are all looking forward to this wonderful addition for Members to enjoy. Whilst on the subject of Canaipa, it was sad to farewell Kevin and Sue earlier this year, but the arrival of Sean and Sheridan has provided a fresh new change and the catering has become even better. The Members’ survey, which was conducted in February, provided valuable feedback across several key operational areas — one of which was a focus on improvement of our Hospitality and Catering services and, with the decision by Ancora to leave, we had the opportunity to engage The Consortium Queensland (TCQ). TCQ is managed by Peta Prestidge and her team who also operate The Arsonist, Tide on the Jetty and SeaVibes Manly. So, with their local knowledge and support, they are working hard to deliver a great new service and food experience to Squadron Members. The survey feedback also told us that the Clubhouse was badly in need of a ‘face-lift’ and the Works Committee, led by Fraser Spencer, once again created designs and drawings to deliver much-needed improvements in the Bar and Bistro areas, a deck off the Girdis Room and a lift up to the Flags room. We are still in the final stages of tenders from contractors, but hope to make an announcement about starting this work early in the New Year. You can see Fraser’s renderings of the new works in a special feature starting on page 24.

Mainsheet 2023

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Royal Queensland Yacht Squadron Yearbook