RQYS MAINSHEET 2024

Incorporating

QUALITY NEW & PRE-OWNED YACHTS

READY TO SELL? GENUINE BUYERS ARE WAITING

CALL FOR A FREE VALUATION

BRISBANE SALES CENTRE | 461 ESPLANADE, MANLY Tel: +61 7 5452 5164 | info@yachtsalesco.com | yachtsalesco.com

Reports Welcome

29

37

Board Chair

4

Commodore

5

Chief Executive Officer

6

Australian Sailing accolades

9

Squadron Architect

10

Marina Manager

14

Sailing Manager

16

43

47

Head Coach

21

Sailing Academy

22

Hospitality

25

Making Waves Foundation

26

WAGS

32

Brisbane Race Week

34

Sail Cruising Group

62

54

52

Sailor of the Year

82

Club Member of the Year

82

Listings

Features

2

Squadron Partners and Supporters

Brisbane Etchells Fleet Sleek sailing ‘sharks’ catch the eye

29

3

Flag Officers, Board and Management

59

77

Crossed the Bar

Time for some Power! Cruising, Navigation and Cup contests

37

81

2024 Awards, Trophies and Prizes

84

RQYS vessels register

Growing Gumdale school students Squadron collaboration nurtures talent

43

90

RQYS vessel owners

96

New RQYS Members

Squadron’s hardy perennials Celebrating some long-serving staff

47

Mainsheet is published by the Royal Queensland Yacht Squadron (RQYS) Limited. Post: PO Box 5021 Manly Q 4179 Phone: (07) 3396 8666 Email: marketing@rqys.com.au Website: www.rqys.com.au Design: Masthead.au Printing: Harding Colour / AllClear Images: All images in Mainsheet 2024 supplied by contributors; specific attributions noted as required. © Copyright 2024 Royal Queensland Yacht Squadron ACN 053 989 272 All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced without the permission of RQYS and relevant authors, photographers and copyright holders. Articles reflect the personal opinion of the author and/or contributor, and are not necessarily those of the Royal Queensland Yacht Squadron Limited (RQYS), nor does RQYS guarantee the accuracy of statements made by contributors or advertisers or accept any responsibility for statements they may express in this publication. The Editor reserves the right to change or alter contributors’ articles submitted to RQYS for publication.

140th Season Opening Day

52

64

Squadron’s zodiac of rising stars Up-and-coming sailors’ successes

54

Friendships, mateships … “~ships” Our women’s Volunteering rewards

59

In the footsteps of Flinders … Plans to circumnavigate Australia

64

Out in the wild blue yonder Six months’ cruising the South Pacific

67

67

Finns’ flood tide of new interest Olympian heritage inspires for 2026

72

OUTSIDE COVERS: Close-up aerial view of the new Longhouse at RQYS Canaipa during its official opening festivities on 30 June 2024.

72

Acknowledgements

Squadron Partners & Supporters As a not for profit organisation, the Royal Queensland Yacht Squadron appreciates and respects the generosity of our Partners and Supporters to help us deliver vital support and services to our sailors of all ages, engagement levels and future potential.

PLATINUM

GOLD

SILVER

BRONZE

SUPPORTERS

Your contributions enable us to empower individuals who are passionate about our sport to pursue their dreams and stay competitive in reaching their goals, whether it be social sailing or competitive sailing at local, national or international levels. We truly couldn’t do it without your support!

Mainsheet 2024

2

Royal Queensland Yacht Squadron Yearbook

Governance / Administration

Flag Officers, Board & Management Teams Collectively, hundreds of years of sailing, boating, coaching, nurturing, growth and development, business and event management, and strategic planning experience underpins our Squadron’s governance, administration and daily operations.

Flag Officers

COMMODORE John Warlow

VICE COMMODORE Curtis Skinner

REAR COMMODORE Todd Anderson

Board Members

CHAIR Melissa Hardy

TREASURER Ben Barnes

BOARD MEMBER Nigel Spork

BOARD MEMBER James Tuma

BOARD MEMBER Chris Tyquin

Committee Chairs

MEMBERSHIP Dan Alcock

HOUSE Stewart Cumming

WORKS Fraser Spencer

SAILING Greg Kemp

POWER Chris Land

Management Team

SAILING Mark Dingley

CEO Karen Baldwin

CFO Wendy Johnston

MARINA Glen Scott

MEMBERSHIP Alicia Soszynski

MARKETING Simone Hasker

HEAD COACH Adrian Finglas

BUS. DEVELOPMENT Robert Brown oam

Mainsheet 2024

3

Royal Queensland Yacht Squadron Yearbook

Chair’s Message

What a year our Squadron has experienced! With the exciting recent completion of the Canaipa Longhouse and the major works to uplift our Manly headquarters precinct, I can hardly remember a recent year when the Squadron’s facilities have been changing so much! The current Board has been working together (and in partnership with our CEO) for almost two years now, and it is pleasing to see the Squadron going from strength to strength, especially given the increasingly complex and challenging external and economic context this year. In partnership with a number of Members and other trusted Partners, we now have a baseline Strategy for our leadership teams to work with, focused against the four pillars which I highlighted in last year’s edition, and five workstreams to drive specific execution in the coming three years: What a year our Squadron has experienced! With the exciting completion of the Canaipa Longhouse works, and the commencement of the major works to uplift our Manly clubhouse’ I can hardly remember a recent year where the club’s facilities have been changing so much! The current Board has been working together (and in partnership with our CEO) for almost two years now, and it is pleasing to see the Squadron going from strength to strength, especially given the increasingly complex and challenging external and economic context this year. In partnership with a number of members and other trusted partners, we now have a baseline Strategy for our leadership to execute against; with four pillars to be focused against ; and five workstreams to drive specific execution against in the coming 3 years : Four by five in the next exciting three! Board Chair Melissa Hardy expands on four Strategic Plan pillars driving five workstreams in the next three years.

We are excited to support the initiatives that arise from this strategic direction, and have already taken steps to begin the establishment of the Masterplan for RQYS Manly through a tender/bid process for a qualified partner to lead the creation of the plan. I look forward to entering 2025 and continuing to work with the Board to steer the Squadron through what is sure to be another memorable year — if the start of the 140th season is anything to go by! We are excited to extend on the foundation laid within the Strategy, and steer towards the opportunities we are presented with during the year ahead, to continue to be an organisation from which our Members derive great benefit from and with which everyone is proud to be associated. We are excited to support the initiatives that arise from this strategic direction, and have already taken steps to commence the establishment of the Masterplan for Manly through a tender/bid process for a qualified partner to lead the creation of the plan. I look forward to entering 2025 and continuing to work with the Board to steer the Squadron through what is sure to be another memorable year, if the start of the 140 th season is anything to go by. We are excited to extend on the foundation laid within the Strategy, and driving towards the opportunities we are presented with during the year to continue to be an organisation that members derive great benefit from and are proud to be associated with.

See you at the Squadron or on the Bay for our 140th year! Melissa Hardy n

See you at the Squadron or on the Bay for our 140 th year! Mainsheet 2024 Royal Queensland Yacht Squadron Yearbook

4

Commodore’s Report

Another year of building and growth Commodore John Warlow’s valedictory message exudes pride in seeing two major projects through to completion.

Since our last edition of Mainsheet, we have had some fantastic outcomes with the completion of sorely-needed major Squadron projects which, in some cases, have been on the drawing board for at least four years, through the pandemic and other logistical challenges.

Writing about ‘mid-year’ 2024 cannot pass without flagging another official opening — that of our much-anticipated Canaipa Longhouse! More than 400 Members, Volunteers, staff and guests made the trek down to Russell Island to be part of the celebrations. While Canaipa was great before, it is now a definite ‘bucket list destination’! We should all be incredibly proud of our Club with the addition of these facilities.

At the time I began writing this message, I just had the pleasure of inspecting our new air-conditioned, ground-level Members’ Lounge amidst all the renovations and I felt confident it would quickly become a favourite of Squadron Members. This area, including the fully refurbished washroom amenities, kids’ corner and the new lift up to Flags function room in the Cavill Building, provided the extra link needed to complement the new bar and restaurant area which we were able to deliver in time for the official opening of our 140th Sailing Season — and what another great Opening Day which was enjoyed by all!

We will not be stopping to rest on our laurels: with the Board leading the strategic planning effort and a new development Masterplan in the wind, there is still plenty for us to strive for, for the long-term benefit of the Club and our Members. With the Olympics even fresher in everyone’s vision since Paris this year, there are some exciting times ahead for our sailors, Race Officers and Volunteers … it will be a real ‘watch this space’ shared effort as we move closer to 2032. As it is my last year in office, I take this opportunity to thank the Club as a whole, its staff, our Members and, most importantly, our incredibly special Volunteers for the opportunity to be part of the organisation and the successes we have achieved over recent years. While fairly challenging at times (which I was told is quite normal —thanks, PC David!), I have found it gratifying to have been able to put something back into the Club that Laura and I enjoy so much.

Since that first Saturday in September, of course, Clubhouse works have made great strides closer to completion, and more new spaces have been elegantly outfitted and progressively opened. Flags is now not only accessible by lift but it also boasts the only harbour view lift in Manly, with spectacular views down-harbour along the fairway. The upper level is now a fully operational space and will only grow in popularity with Member functions and other catered events already planned for 2025. And let’s not forget the new covered deck added to the Girdis Room: what a great space it has created, overlooking the rigging lawns and opening out to the full harbour view! I have attended many functions there since its completion mid-year: they have all been a huge success with the additions opening up the venue on many a fine day and evening.

I look forward to seeing you around our Club and on the water. John Warlow n

Mainsheet 2024

5

Royal Queensland Yacht Squadron Yearbook

Chief Executive Officer’s Report

With compliments to all involved Teamwork really does make for ‘dreamwork’ as 2024’s progress, outcomes and accolades can definitely attest.

Looking back over the last 12 months showcases an amazing range of activities and achievements continuing to highlight the benefits that membership of the Squadron provides for everyone , Karen Baldwin reflects, including the ongoing recognition of external industry awards.

Let me start with once again sharing the excitement when RQYS was awarded ‘Club of the Year – Non-Gaming’ from Clubs Queensland in March. This was on the back of an earlier award-winning ‘Club of the Year’ from the Marina Industry Association in 2023, which was followed by confirmation of our status as a 5 Gold Anchor Marina . All this recognition is testimony to the efforts made by our employees, but also a lot of credit must go to our Volunteers and our Members. We are fast becoming recognised as a “friendly and welcoming” Club which runs “awesome” regattas and events, so it’s many thanks to all of you for your support and assistance throughout the year, helping us make a good club an even greater Club. Completion of the long-awaited Canaipa Longhouse was an amazing celebration held on 30 June 2024 and now so many Members are enjoying this incredible new facility which we are sure makes many other clubs quite envious.

The atmosphere around the Squadron was abuzz with excitement and a lot of noise (unfortunately) due to the clubhouse renovations which kicked off in February. The official re-opening and completion of this work took place on Friday 1 November, and everyone has been notably impressed with the fabulous new spaces available for Members and guests to enjoy. These include the new Girdis Room deck which opens out overlooking the main rigging lawn and is a great new feature for this function space. The new Burgee Lounge and Dining Room is now a comfortable, relaxing and air-conditioned space — and, curiously, many have now quickly forgotten what the old bar used to look like (or where the door to the men’s room was)! The other addition has been a lift between the new lounge and the Flags function room – and it also comes with a view!

These are all the improvements that everyone sees, but there were also a lot of major behind-the-scenes changes which included installation of a large new coolroom, new and upgraded audio-visual systems with TVs and speakers, as well as much needed new electrical wiring through the entire Cavill Building. A few finishing touches — such as the external landscaping and paving — are now also complete. There is another very important point to note here, and something which most members would probably not realise, but with a renewed emphasis on controlling expenditure and generating income, the Squadron has been able to manage and pay for all these projects without the need to borrow funds. This, again, is indeed a huge tribute to the efforts of a hard-working team of staff supported by our Volunteers and Committees.

Mainsheet 2024

6

Royal Queensland Yacht Squadron Yearbook

Chief Executive Officer’s Report

Another very important milestone this year which created a huge amount of fanfare, was the 140th Sailing Season Opening Day on Saturday 7 September and, after all the formalities, one of the biggest Opening Day parties ever was enjoyed by our Members and VIP guests.

In conjunction with the new Strategic Plan, and its measurable annual targets, we are also about to embark on the development of a Masterplan which will reassess all our current assets and explore opportunities to ensure the Squadron’s continued success and growth for many more years to come. Obviously, it has been an absolute delight to be able to summarise all the positive achievements and accomplishments over the last year and I honestly could not do it without the support of an outstanding team of great leaders including Wendy Johnston, Mark Dingley, Glen Scott, Alicia Soszynski, Simone Hasker and Rob Brown. Equally, they are only able to do their jobs successfully with the support of their own departmental teams as well as the various Committees and Volunteer groups which work tirelessly in tandem with them. It is not really appropriate to single out any others but there are a few people who I would particularly like to thank and acknowledge for their support in the past year. First, Lynne Jackson, who everyone knows as a very long-serving employee, who retired late 2021 to become ‘just’ an Honorary Life Member, and who I then dragged ‘kicking and screaming’ back out of retirement on the promise of “just a few more months, Lynne …” and who is now still here nearly three years later! Thank you, Lynne!

Fraser Spencer and Melissa Hardy

To Fraser Spencer — Life Member, Club Architect, Chair of Works Committee and someone who I worked side-by-side with through both the Longhouse project and Clubhouse renovations — we did have some testing moments and a few ‘battles’ over colours, textures and decisions, but both agree we would do it all again in a heartbeat! Thanks, Fraser! To the Flag Officers — Commodore John, VC Curtis and RC Todd — you are ‘The Three Amigos’ and I’m glad you all have my back as I have yours! Thank you for your trust, help, support and advice over the last year. Together we have all achieved so much! To all of you, our Squadron Members: sure, we all have our ups and downs, and things don’t always go the way we hope or expect, but you are all amazing and give me the encouragement to keep doing what I do. We all want RQYS to be the best it can be, and no one person can do it alone. It is the combined efforts that all of you give that make the Squadron special.

So, everything you have already read has been about what has been achieved in the year past but, looking to the future, we have set our sights on building a Strategic Plan to help set objectives and the key goals for continued improvement of not only our physical assets and infrastructure but also our long-term financial security and sustainability. OPENING DAY: Squadron Patron Professor Graeme Nimmo rfd , Naval ADC Cdre Stephanie Moles ran and RQYS Cdre John Warlow

Thank you and let’s have a fabulous 140th Year! n

Mainsheet 2024

7

Royal Queensland Yacht Squadron Yearbook

Australian Sailing Awards • 2024

Squadron shines at Southport gala With no fewer than 14 finalists across 12 categories, RQYS was always going to be unbeatable for Team of the Year!

Our own Simon Small and Luke Rogers were two of the three finalists for Male Sailor of the Year, with Simon taking home Australian Sailing’s ‘Wyuna Trophy’ for the award. Introduced in 1996, this trophy recognises senior competitors who have excelled at National and International standard and from 2004 it has also recognised the Male Sailor of the Year. Success was even sweeter in the contention for Team of the Year, with RQYS providing all three finalists (!), so for Luke and Lucas to carry the day in the face of such stiff competition as Tony and Andrew — not to mention Matt and his well-honed crew aboard “Trouble & Strife” — is a fine accomplishment indeed. It’s been back-to-back wins for the Squadron in two other categories, with ‘Rafa’ following Adrian Finglas as Coach of the Year, and Austin Sims (‘Robin’ to Mark Dingley’s ‘Batman’) succeeding his boss as Sport Professional of the Year. Perhaps the highlight of the night, though, was our RQYS Volunteer par excellence Noel Paterson being deservedly recognised with the Lifetime Achievement Award. It was a great night for the Squadron at Australian Sailing’s 2024 Queensland Awards, announced at a gala event on Friday 26 September at Southport Yacht Club.

Australian Sailing QUEENSLAND AWARDS 2024

Male Sailor of the Year • Winner Simon Small

Male Sailor of the Year Luke Rogers

Finalist

Team of the Year • Winner Lucas Patrick & Luke Rogers

Team of the Year Tony Craner & Andrew Tunball-Miller Matt Williams & ‘Trouble & Strife’ crew

Finalists

Coach of the Year • Winner Rafael Trujillo

Sport Professional of the Year • Winner Austin Sims

Lifetime Achievement Award • Winner Noel Paterson

Female Sailor of the Year Mara Stransky

Finalist

Youth Sailor of the Year Caterina Meyer

Finalist

Official of the Year Louise Davis

Finalist

Instructor of the Year Libby Kirby

Finalist

Sport Promotion Mike Middleton

Finalist

Club of the Year RQYS

Finalist

The success achieved at the awards is a reflection of the passion and commitment of everyone involved with RQYS Sailing, and testament to the hard work and dedication of our Volunteers, Members and support teams. Congratulations to all our finalists and winners! n

Mainsheet 2024

9

Royal Queensland Yacht Squadron Yearbook

Renovations Report

A year that was well worth the wait … We’ve had to duck, dodge, divert and defer to the works, but now we can all enjoy the fruits of the renovations!

After “much planning and careful preparation,” writes a relieved Fraser Spencer with modest understatement, major renovations to our Cavill Building, Boardwalk Pavilion, and Girdis Function Room at Manly were at last completed, and officially opened to all on 1 November 2024.

Glancing back through 12 months of “In the Wind” e-news and the references to weather interruptions and supplier and material delays, with apologies for noise and disruption and requests for Members’ patience and understanding, puts one in mind of the old barstool joke about the motor mechanic asking the heart surgeon why, given they did essentially similar work, the latter charged so much more — “because I have to do mine with the engine still running.” Logistics of working in and around the Squadron’s functioning hospitality and event operations were always going to be a challenge, not only because of the work needed in the Cavill Building but also because of the over-arching imperative of keeping Members and guests supplied with liquid refreshments! Designed by Squadron Architect Fraser Spencer (RSA Architects), and built by Clarke Constructions (Bruce Clarke), the works primarily aimed to breathe new life into our iconic 60-year-old original Manly Clubhouse, transforming it into a modern, accessible two-level building.

Stage Two centered on the installation of a new passenger lift in the Cavill Building between Flags Function Room upstairs and, at ground level, the renovated Members’ Model Room and new Club Restaurant. As well, both the ground- and first-floor amenities have been fully remodelled, with accessible bathrooms added to both for greater inclusivity.

Mainsheet 2023: plans now fulfilled, renderings realised

Stage One of the project focused on enhancing the Girdis Function Room, where a new covered deck was added to the west side. This extension allows for full-height glazing, creating an open connection between the room, the main rigging lawn, and stunning harbour views. The existing Yachties Bar, located below the Cavill Building, was demolished and replaced with a new alfresco bar on the eastern side of the Boardwalk Pavilion. This new space, built at timber deck level, includes stylish new furniture and booth style dining, offering a fresh and inviting atmosphere.

With these upgrades, our Club is now perfectly positioned to support a wide range of activities. There are spacious lounge areas for Members to relax and socialise, ample room for functions and events, and a welcoming environment for all. Our extensive and historically significant collection of trophies, burgees, and half-models is now proudly displayed for everyone to admire and enjoy. n

Opposite page: official opening night scenes

Mainsheet 2024

10

Royal Queensland Yacht Squadron Yearbook

Renovations report

Girdis Room and Bar re-opening

Mainsheet 2024

11

Royal Queensland Yacht Squadron Yearbook

Canaipa Longhouse official opening

Mainsheet 2024

12

Royal Queensland Yacht Squadron Yearbook

Long described as the Down-the-Bay ‘jewel in the crown’ of the Squadron’s facilities, RQYS Canaipa now adds a stunning pavilion for social gatherings which overlooks the pristine swimming pool, outdoor firepit and lawns rolling down to the water’s edge — all thanks largely to the generosity and efforts of our Members! … especially with crowning our ‘jewel’! Maybe ‘out of sight’ but definitely not ‘out of mind’ with all the Manly work: our Canaipa Longhouse is also complete.

On 30 June 2024, more than 400 Members and invited guests gathered at Canaipa for a lively celebration to officially mark the opening of our new facility. The event featured a festive BBQ and dancing — perhaps pin-pointing a new addition to our Club’s annual calendar of activities. Also designed by Squadron Architect Fraser Spencer, and built by Bruce Clarke’s team, the 240m 2 timber-framed pavilion blends seamlessly into its natural surroundings. Positioned adjacent to our blue pool, the pavilion’s northern-facing side offers stunning views of the Canaipa Passage entrance from the Bay beyond. The building design features a simple gable roof to complement the aesthetics of our existing amenities building, which has served the Club for over 30 years. With touches like drop-down bug- and wind-screens, as well as a dedicated BBQ area and scullery, the pavilion provides both comfort and functionality. This project was completed on budget, with a generous portion of the funding coming from Member donations.

The new Longhouse is now a fantastic space for Members to enjoy, whether arriving on their own boat or by ferry from Redland Bay to Russell Island, and will amplify the existing appeal of RQYS Canaipa as the jewel in our Squadron’s Moreton Bay crown. n

PROUDLY SUPPORTING THE ROYAL QUEENSLAND YACHT SQUADRON FOR OVER 50 YEARS.

wallacebishop.com.au

/wallacebishop

/wallacebishop

Mainsheet 2024

13

Royal Queensland Yacht Squadron Yearbook

Marina Manager’s Report

It’s been a busy and productive year, summarises Marina Manager Glen Scott, who’s thrilled to share the progress which has been made, as well as the significant waypoints which have been reached, with new team members joining and some of our ‘old guard’ achieving truly memorable milestones in their years of service to our Squadron. Marina milestones achievements 2024 has been another year of exciting developments and extra enhancements to our facilities and Member services.

Long service milestones Perhaps unrealised by many readers is our staff longevity: it’s been wonderful to celebrate several long service milestones in 2024 including, behind the scenes, Belinda Annan’s amazing 27 years and the 10 and 15 years, respectively, given by Wendy Johnston and Alicia Soszynski. In the Boatyard, Graham Rock clocked an incredible 36 years with the Squadron, while Shane (‘Shaggy’) Green marked 30 years and Tony DenHoed notched up 20, most lately around the grounds — with the latter pair previously serving up in more culinary RQYS roles prior to the pandemic — and you can read more about these ‘three amigos’ in our special feature on pages 47–49.

In addition to the completion of the Clubhouse renovations, numerous other improvements have been made around the precinct. Rigging Lawns 1 and 2 have been completely re-turfed (the latter re-profiled as well) creating cleaner and more inviting spaces not only for those preparing boats but also for the amenity of Squadron functions extending beyond the refurbished bar/bistro pavilion and new Girdis Room decks. We’ve also expanded the hardstand area, adding more spaces for our Members to store their boats. These upgrades have been well-received and help ensure that our facilities continue to meet the growing needs of our RQYS communities. The planned pile replacement project, originally intended for 2024, has been rescheduled to 2025, to maintain focus on completing the renovations program. This adjustment will allow us to ensure that the work is carried out with minimal disruption to our Members, while also taking into account the availability of resources and optimal timing for the marina refurbishment. We’ve experienced very high occupancy rates throughout the Marina, hardstand storage, and boatyard in the past year.

It’s exciting to see such strong demand for our facilities, which speaks to the value of being part of our Squadron. Our team continues to work hard to ensure that Members’ needs are met, and I’m proud of how well we’ve been able to manage the increased demand and improve service to Members. We have received a lot of positive feedback on our progress. Two new faces added to the RQYS Marina team. Previously at Sanctuary Cove, David Fisher joined us as Assistant Marina Manager, bringing a wealth of experience and knowledge to the role. His affable personality and easy-going expertise has already won many kudos from Members. And, back in December 2023, Scott Thompson joined as our new Roodberg operator. His experience and enthusiasm have been making a positive impact and many Members will have already made their introductions to both employees.

Dave Fisher and Glen Scott @ Opening Day 2024

In 2025, I look forward to continuing to improve our facilities and services for Members, ensuring that RQYS remains the premier boating destination in Southeast Queensland. Thank-you to everyone for your ongoing support, and I look forward to seeing you around the Squadron in the coming year. n

Mainsheet 2024

14

Royal Queensland Yacht Squadron Yearbook

Marina Manager’s Report

Images this page: Matthew Tesch

CEO’S EAGLE-EYED ‘TRUNK CALL’ TO MARINA TEAM FOILED POTENTIAL SAFETY ISSUES On 4 September 2024, during an early morning circuit of the grounds, CEO Karen Baldwin noted a large, semi-submerged treetrunk drifting off the eastern beach following one of the year’s bouts of torrential rains. Fearing for the safety of RQYS foilers, wind- and kite-surfers with such a hazard, the Marina team was tasked with its relocation out of harm’s way. It took Glen, Graham and Scott a couple of hours, on a flood tide, to rope up, tow and nudge the tree (50% longer than the 6m-long “Marina 1” tender!) slowly south around Inspiration Point towards Lota until both could go no further into the quicksand mudflats and the grounded tree had to be left to in Mother Nature’s future hands, away from RQYS beach users.

Mainsheet 2024

15

Royal Queensland Yacht Squadron Yearbook

Sailing Manager’s Report

Close-hauled right to the finishing line Our 139th Sailing Season provided a packed program of exciting sailing events, thanks to our fantastic Volunteers!

As 2024 drew to a close it was clear that, as usual, ‘winding down to the end of the year’ was something that happened to others, reflects Mark Dingley, as December usually marks the start of the ‘silly season’ for the Sailing Office, with variable weather and Summer holiday regattas galore.

As the past year opened, the weather gods continued their angry mood swings and, although this made for some challenging moments afloat and ashore, January 2024 saw the Squadron host the colourful and competitive 51st Hobie Class National Championships, split over two series, attracting over 60 entries with more than 100 participants.

The ILCA Australian Open and Youth Championships in Adelaide had some impressive results for ‘Team RQ’ but the icing on the cake was that Queensland won the Battens Trophy for the Teams results for the first time. Credit goes to the boys and girls from the RQ Youth Squad who comprised the majority of the State’s winning team. For the rest of the fleets, February marked the return to action after the Christmas break, diving straight into Term 1 Brisbane Schools Fleet and teams racing. Foiling boards and Club Championships were all abuzz with activity — as were the eager OK Dinghy sailors keen to get in some water time ahead of their Nationals and the OK Dinghy Worlds at month’s end. The Squadron came alive as competitors from Europe and New Zealand arrived, transforming the grounds. Cars made way for shipping containers, international flags fluttered aloft, and camaraderie flourished among the 105 entries. The ‘wind-down area’ under the large marquee on the main rigging lawn certainly proved to be a great place to share stories of the days’ racing!

In March, the annual Brisbane Women’s Keelboat Cup Regatta — aligned with International Women’s Day — brought together sailors and supporters for a weekend of competitive yet fun racing, celebrating women’s contributions to, and invoivement in, the sport of sailing.

The following regatta saw the Flying Elevens on the water, filled with Olympic aspirations — an impressive field of 40 boats competed in a 10 -race series with our own Patrick boys (Lucas and Zachary) just missing Gold on countback.

Mainsheet 2024

16

Royal Queensland Yacht Squadron Yearbook

Sailing Manager’s Report

The following week featured the Moreton Bay Multihull Regatta, which started slow but finished lively. This event was followed by the Etchells Brisbane Fleet Championships, Division Yachts, and the Southeast Queensland Schools Teams Racing Finals. Then a short break for the hard-worked rigging lawns for Easter, marking the end of the Summer 2023–24 Sailing Season, and the chance to begin laying fresh turf ahead of Opening Day.

This is also an opportunity to recognise those wonderful Volunteers that give up their time and, no matter the conditions, put themselves out there to facilitate racing for our Club’s Members, guests and visitors from interstate and overseas.

All eyes were then on the ILCA Australian Masters Championships, featuring more than 70 athletes, across all three ILCA Classes, from Apprentice Masters through Great Grand Masters and the Legends — and they truly are legends of the sport!

Well done, everyone — your support and efforts are greatly appreciated indeed!

May is also the time for the new Brisbane Race Week regatta, usually held on the May Day long weekend. 2024 was the second year of the event, attracting entries from Southport and a few of the other local clubs, resulting in double the number of boats. This is building to be a highlight on the racing Calendar with its variety of race formats, including the final day conducted alongside the always- popular WAGS circuits.

L-R: Vanessa Dudley, Lyndall Patterson, Christine Bridge and Diane Sissingth

May is always the time to celebrate the achievements of our Members, young and old, recognised at the Squadron’s various presentation nights.

May would not be complete without the Canaipa Cup. This year’s fickle winds posed challenges for the race committee and the 45-strong fleet alike. Saturday was shortened at the laid mark, but that did little to dampen the festivities at Canaipa. Sunday’s return was more challenging, with a few wind-forced retirements.

April is traditionally a little quieter on the club racing front, affording opportunity for the Squadron to host the sociably competitive Seawind regatta.

Mainsheet 2024

17

Royal Queensland Yacht Squadron Yearbook

Sailing Manager’s Report

A reduced fleet of yachts lined up for the start of The Yacht Sales Co. “Go Troppo” Brisbane to Keppel Tropical Yacht Race, with lighter winds making for a quiet start. This year, the added challenge of having to stay further east to minimise the risk of whale strikes had competitors struggling against the tide. Better winds helped take the fleet around the top of K’gari/Fraser, and competitors arrived to the wonderful hospitality of the Keppel Bay Marina — although post-race conversations were still focused on the effectiveness of the exclusion zone. July ushered in the popular Gill Youth Week, four days of thrilling racing for all youth classes. With 111 entries across three courses and great weather, this made for a fantastic regatta. The Squadron hosted the 2024 QILCA Winter ILCA Open Regatta — in lieu of the traditional South Pacific Laser Masters — with almost 50 entries braving the colder waters. The following weekend, the Finn State Championships were true to form: these sailors ‘sail to party’ and the racing was great, but the traditional “Long Lunch” was spectacular. August is usually the quiet sailing month at the Squadron, save for the Etchells Fleet, and our RQ Volunteers turned out once more for the Etchells Waterloo Cup.

Canaipa Cup winner Chris Morgan and V/Cdre Curtis Skinner

Opening of the 140th Sailing Season was a perfect day for pomp and ceremony, and the fleet looked spectacular as it paraded up the fairway to salute our Squadron Patron and other dignitaries. September celebrated youth engagement with the annual Australian Sailing Youth Championships in Yeppoon. RQ Members comprised no less than two-thirds of the fleet , underlining not only the dedication of our young sailors and their families but also the many opportunities for personal growth, teamwork and resilience that come with competitive sailing. At the end of the month, the Etchells were back on the water with a weather-affected State Championships and unfortunately the Saturday was washed out. The Squadron was back into the rhythm with Schools racing, Foiling and Club racing almost every October weekend as Members took advantage of the glorious weather. The annual Beneteau Cup and French Yacht challenge had almost 20 entries across two divisions and, as usual, all things French were celebrated, right down to the baguettes!

Some below-average June temperatures made for chilly early morning Boardwalk briefings and evening finishes for the Nacra 15/17 Winter Regatta and VX One crews but, at day’s end, when beers were traded for rums, the racing was still hot.

Zhik_RQYS_Mag_Advert_A5_Release_v1.pdf 1 21/10/2024 11:03:18 AM

C

M

Y

CM

MY

CY

CMY

K

Snapshot of the 2024 Sailing Office calendar: a huge program made possible only with our Volunteers’ support! Listing below includes only those events solely organised or co-hosted by RQYS; excludes Squadron Cruising Groups outings and external and intra/interstate races — visit rqys.com.au/sailing-calendar for the latest details.

MTH DATE/S EVENT/S

HOST DIVISION/S

Tue.02 – Fri.05 Hobie Nationals

Hobie

JAN

Mon.15 – Sun.21 Flying Eleven Nationals

RQYS

Flying Eleven

Sun.28 Sat.03 Sun.04 Sat.10 Sun.11 Sat.17 Sun.18 Sat.24 Sun.25

Schools Fleet Racing - Day 1

Schools

OTB Day 15 (Squadron Champs 5) Schools Fleet Racing - Day 2

OTB

Schools Yachts

RQYS

Div Race (RTC 4, 5 & 6) (Race 5 to count Squadron Champs 6)

OTB Day 16 Surf to City

OTB

QCYC

Yachts

Schools Fleet Racing - Day 3 / Foil Day 6

Schools / Foiling

FEB

OTB Day 17

OTB

Schools Teams Racing - Day 1 / Div Race 5

Schools / Yachts

Mon.19 – Wed.21 OK Dinghy Nationals / Pre-Worlds

OKs

RQYS

OTB Day 18 / Kingfisher Night Race 3

OTB / Yachts

Schools Teams Racing - Day 2

Schools

November saw the resurrected School Fleet Racing Championships over the first weekend followed by a well-supported Goodwill Cup sailing event, which saw entries from Southport Yacht Club and Moreton Bay Boat Club, with SYC winning the Team event and the Goodwill Cup on IRC, and our own “Drakes Prayer” winning the Lord Brassey Cup on PHS.

Fri.23 – Sat.02 Mar OK Dinghy Worlds

OKs

Sun.03 Sat.09

Schools Teams Racing - Day 3 / Div Race 6 (Squadron Champs 7)

Schools / Yachts

OTB Day 19 Squadron Champs 6

OTB

Sat.09 – Sun.10 Brisbane Womens Keelboat Cup

Yachts Schools Multihull

Sun.10

Schools Teams Racing Day 4 - Finals

Thu.14 – Sun.17 Moreton Bay Multihull Regatta

Sat.16

OTB Day 20 / Kingfisher Night Race 4

OTB / Yachts Foiling / Yachts

RQYS

MAR

Foil Day 7 / Div Race 7

Sun.17

SEQ Champs Schools Teams Racing

Schools

Sat.23

OTB Day 21

OTB

Sat.23 – Sun.24 Etchells Brisbane Fleet Championship

Etchells Schools Yachts Multihulls

Sun.24

SEQ Champs Schools Teams Racing - Finals

Fri.29

Brisbane to Gladsone Yacht Race

QCYC

Fri.05 – Sun.07 Brisbane Seawind Regatta

RQYS

Fri.12 – Mon.15 ILCA - Australian Masters Championships

ILCA

Su.14 Sat.20 Sun.21 Sun.28

MCC 5

MCC

Yachts

APR

Frostbite Day 1

OTB

Pacer Queensland Open Teams Racing Championships RQ Yachts - Winter Race 1 - Winter Course Book

RQYS

Pacer Yachts Yachts

MCC 6 Peter Beard ‘Big Lap’

MCC

Saturday

Frostbite Day 2

OTB

Fri.03 – Wed.08 Brisbane Race Week (Multiple events & courses)

Yachts

Fri.10 Fri.17 Sat.18 Sun.19

Junior Presentation Night

All

PIF - Propery Industry Foundation Race Past Commodores’ Cup / Frostbite Day 3 RQ Yachts - Winter Race 3 - Winter Course Book

Yachts

MAY

RQYS

Power / OTB

Yachts Yachts

Sat.25 – Sun.26 Canaipa Cup Yacht Race

Fri.31

Senior Presentation Night & Yachtshare Club Member of the Year

OTB

Sat.01 – Sun.02 Nacra 15/17 Winter regatta

Nacra

Sat.01

Frostbite Day 4

OTB

Fri.07 – Sun.09 VX ONE Winter Nationals

VX One

RQYS

Fri.07

Cruising and Navigation Presentation Night RQ Yachts - Winter Race 4 - Winter Course Book

Power and Sail

JUN

Sun.09 Sat.15 Sun.16 Thu.20

Yachts

Frostbite Day 5

OTB

The month finished strong with the ILCA Metropolitan Championships and the VX One QLD State Championships. And, throughout all these events was a regular schedule of Squadron racing across OTB (Off the Beach) Dinghy, Foiling classes and Keelboat racing on Sundays. In closing this year’s report, I extend heartfelt thanks — and congratulations on his well-merited Australian Sailing award — to Austin Sims, our dedicated Sailing Administrator Rose Haynes, and to the incredible Volunteers who make these events possible. Your tireless efforts are the backbone of our success. Thanks to every one of you, for your continued commitment to and support of our sailing community.

MCC 9

MCC

Yachts Yachts

Brisbane to Keppel Bay 2024

RQYS

Thu.04 – Sun.07 GILL Queensland Youth Week

OTB

Sun.07

RQ Yachts - Winter Race 5 - Winter Course Book

RQYS

Yachts

JUL

Sat.13 – Sun.14 2024 QILCA Winter ILCA Open Regatta

ILCA

Sun.14

MCC 10

MCC

Yachts Finns Yachts Etchells Yachts Yachts

Sat.20 – Sun.21 Finn Queensland State Titles Fri.02 – Tue.07 Brisbane to Hamilton Island Sat.03 – Sun.04 Etchells Waterloo Cup

RQYS

RQYS

AUG

Sun.04 Sun.25 Sat.07 Sun.08 Sat.14 Sun.15 Sat.21 Sat.28 Sun.29 Sat.05 Sun.06 Sat.12 Sun.13 Sat.19 Sun.20 Sat.26 Sun.27

MCC 11 MCC 12

MCC

140th Sailing Season Opening Day

All

Foiling Day 1

Foiling

RQYS

OTB Day 1 (Squadron Champs 1) RQ Yachts Day 1 (Squadron Champs 1)

OTB

Yachts

SEP

OTB Day 2

OTB

Sat.21 – Sun.22 MCC 13,14 & 15

MCC

Yachts Etchells

Sat.28 – Sun.29 Etchells Queensland State Titles

OTB Day 3

RQYS

OTB

RQ Yachts Day 2

Yachts

OTB Day 4

OTB

RQY

Foiling Day 2 / Schools Fleet Racing - Day 1

Foiling / Schools

Sat.12 – Sun.13 St Helena Cup

WMSC

Yachts

OTB Day 5

OTB

Schools Fleet Racing - Day 2

Schools Yachts

OCT

Sat.19 – Sun.20 Beneteau Cup and French Yacht Challenge

OTB Day 6 (Squadron Champs 2) / Kingfisher Night Race 1

OTB / Yachts

RQYS

Foiling Day 3 / Schools Fleet Racing - Day 3

Foiling / Schools

OTB Day 7

OTB

Schools Fleet Racing - Day 4

Schools Yachts

RQ Yachts Day 3 (RTC 1, 2 & 3) (Race 2 = Squadron Champs 2 )

Sat.02

OTB Day 8

OTB

Sat.02 – Sun.03 Goodwill Cup / 2024 Schools Fleet Racing Championships

Power / Schools

Here’s to another remarkable season ahead! n

Sun.03

Foiling Day 4

Foiling Yachts

Sat.09 – Sun.10 Goodwill Cup / Races 4 & 5 (Squadron Champs 3 & 4)

Sat.09 Sun.10 Sat.16 Sun.17 Sat.23 Sun.24 Sat.30

OTB Day 9

OTB

NOV

SchoolsTeams Racing - Day 1

Schools

RQYS

OTB Day 10 (Squadron Champs 3 ) / Kingfisher Night Race 2

OTB / Yachts

Foiling Day 5 / SchoolsTeams Racing - Day 2

Foiling / Schools

OTB Day 11

OTB

SchoolsTeams Racing - Day 3 / RQ Yachts Day 6 QILCA Metropolitan Championship / OTB Day 12

Schools / Yachts

ILCA / OTB

QILCA Metropolitan Championship

ILCA

Sun.01

RQ Yachts Day 7 (RTC 4, 5 & 6) (Race 5 = Squadron Champs 5 )

Yachts Optimist

Sat.07 – Sun.08 International Optimist Queensland State Championships

DEC

Sat.07 Sat.14

OTB Day 13

OTB OTB

RQYS

OTB Day 14 (Squadron Champs 4 ) RQ Yachts Day 8 (Splice the Mainbrace)

Yachts Multiple

Wed.18 – Sun.21 Sail Brisbane

Mainsheet 2024

19

Royal Queensland Yacht Squadron Yearbook

GROUP

Royal Queensland Yacht Squadron & Bartons partnership means you

Quote your RQYS member number for exclusive deals on sales, service and parts. Sail Into Savings

BAYSIDE 07 3396 7777

07 3245 2200 REDLANDS

BARTONS.NET.AU

Head Coach’s Report

Coaching from strengths to strengths Operating from a 40-foot TEU shed in the A/B-row carpark during the 2024 renovations didn’t slow things one bit!

“Wow, 2024 has been a huge year for coaching at RQYS!” reports Adrian Finglas, having kick-started the year in Adelaide at the Laser (ILCA) and Opti Nationals, with a huge group of Squadron sailors making the road trip southwest across the country to do Queensland proud with their results.

Supported by Head Opti Coach Kate Baisden, Adrian made the cross-country journey with a large RQYS contingent to achieve a significant first. The Laser crews received the Team Trophy for the Best State Team based on results, with RQYS sailors dominating this event and helping win the first award for Queensland! Adrian was busy all year, preparing sailors young and old for competition, both nationally and internationally. The WAGS fleet has also benefited from his counsel, improving Members’ skills and tactics around the varied courses selected by Paul and Nelly Bolton each Wednesday. Our Head Coach clocked another few hundred kilometres with the annual pilgrimage north to the Australian Sailing Youth Week events in Yeppoon and we have good reason to be proud of the podium and other results achieved by our RQ Youth Squad members.

During the Cavill Building renovations the Sailing Academy was temporarily relocated in the A/B-row parking area — which gave the team new offices and outlook during 2024 — but are expected to be back in full swing in the traditional classrooms early in the New Year. RQYS is a big family and the friendships that are formed on the rigging lawn can be lifelong. Adrian has had many second- and third-generations of families learning to sail this year, and he feels a great sense of pride when he hears a Mum and Dad say to their child, “ Adrian was my Coach.” Many international Olympic Sailing Federations are starting to ‘knock on our door’ and ask about Brisbane and what we have to offer here at RQYS: the next few years are going to be exciting times with our Squadron and Waterloo Bay on display for the global sailing community. Adrian says it is amazing to see our RQYS brand at the forefront of international racing again! n

Junior and Youth sailing numbers at the Squadron weekly are ‘going through the roof’ and Adrian justly attributes this to our amazing team of “red-shirts” — the Coaches and Instructors engaging with young sailors — who can be seen from the Tackers Lawn to the windsurfing beach, or delivering a Gumdale State School (see p.43) “Learn to Sail” session. RQYS had record numbers of young sailors competing internationally this year, who all have had guidance from our coaching staff at different steps of their careers — read more from page 54.

Mainsheet 2024

21

Royal Queensland Yacht Squadron Yearbook

Sailing Academy Report

Lofty goals go from dreams to training “2032” is fast becoming a by-word for the inspiration of many new and upcoming young RQYS Academy sailors! Those five interlocking rings are once more shining brightly in the mind’s-eye of new generations of Squadron Members and families, notes Academy Co-ordinator Dominique Vlug, and what better dream could come true than competing at Olympic- level sailing on your own home waters of beautiful Quandamooka / Moreton Bay?

The last time young Australian sailors had an opportunity like this was at the 2000 Sydney Olympics. The success of this globally-focused occasion set Australia up for the following quarter-century with multiple medals across many years of international and Olympic campaigns. A young Tom King and Mark Turnbull became the first ever 470 Gold Medallists for Australia and set our nation on a path of dominance for many subsequent Olympic Games. Tom, who keeps a low profile these days, can occasionally be seen on the RQYS Tackers Lawn, as his children are learning to sail Optis and start their own sailing journey.

Last year, the Squadron had record numbers of Junior and Youth sailors travel the globe in search of international-level competitions across many classes. The standards required of international racing are very high, and if you can get exposure to its pace at a young age then your knowledge and skills progress rapidly. A few of our RQYS young sailors have been flying the flag very high in Europe this year and are setting themselves up to have a very bright future in the sport. Sailing is like any other sport: if you are chasing success, the more time you train, the luckier you become, they say!

This hard work of endless training hours on Waterloo Bay has had a huge impact on our local Junior and Youth sailors. Many overseas Olympic teams are already checking to see what our RQYS facilities and local Manly village atmosphere have to offer; I think we will start to see our international teams arrive this Summer in preparation for the 2032 games. Recently, Sailing Manager Mark Dingley and Head Coach Adrian Finglas met with the head coach of the Dutch Olympic Sailing Program. The energy and talent that will be training at RQYS will last for many generations into the future.

Contact Vaughan Prentice or Ben Kelly for all your sales and service needs. OUR CREW HAS YOU COVERED

vaughan.prentice@northsails.com ben.kelly@northsails.com

BRISBANE 1/264 Tingal Rd. Wynnum, QLD northsails.com

Mainsheet 2024

22

Royal Queensland Yacht Squadron Yearbook