RQYS MAINSHEET 2025

SQUADRON OFFICE-BEARERS 2025–2026 PATRON

Professor Graeme Nimmo rfd

Commodore Curtis Skinner Vice Commodore Todd Anderson Rear Commodore Chris Land

FLAG OFFICERS

Chair

P/Cdre David Redfern

Contents

Treasurer

Ben Barnes

ORDINARY BOARD MEMBERS

Melissa Hardy Andrew Northcott

Nigel Spork Chris Tyquin Wayne Jevney

(Resigned Aug.25) Honorary Solicitor Honorary Measurer Commodore / Chair Vice Commodore Rear Commodore

3 Marina Manager report

SPECIAL OFFICERS

Bill Wright

Curtis Skinner Todd Anderson

Chris Land

Membership Committee

Daniel Alcock

GENERAL COMMITTEE

Treasurer / Finance, Audit & Risk Committee House, Marketing & Events Committee

Ben Barnes

5 Sailing Office report

Stewart Cumming Wendy Johnston

Secretary (Staff) Sailing Committee

Greg Kemp

Works, Maintenance & Special Projects Committee

Fraser Spencer

Treasurer / Chair (Casual Member)

Ben Barnes Paul Bowker

7 Sailing Academy update

Kathy Flanigan Wendy Johnston Ben Shipley John Somerville Jeff Whiteman Daniel Alcock Pip Fenwick Alexander Grant Jorrit Pranger Darryl Rodgers Grant Somerville Aiicia Soszynski Stephen Tapsall Trish Brewer Stewart Cumming Dick Grantley Simone Hasker Mike Middleton Don Robinson Ian Thomason Helen Warneke Peter Crooke Grant Hudson Ken McCarthy Glen Scott Fraser Spencer Jon Taggart Peter Watkins Richard Wendt Christine Bridge Mark Dingley Mick Patrick Anton Prange Chris Woodforth Hayden Barney Jordan Barney Frances Beebe Callum Bonaci Joseph Folley Jarrod Jones Libby Kirby Shane Atkinson Erwin Bejsta Robert Brown oam David Mackinnon Stephen O’Brien Gray Pritchett James Tapp Karen Baldwin Chris Bernhagen Robert Brown oam Al Harrison Greg Kemp

FINANCE, AUDIT & RISK COMMITTEE

Secretary (Staff)

Chair

9 YASC / Youth Advisory Sub-Committee

MEMBERSHIP COMMITTEE

(Staff)

11 Hospitality operations update

Chair

HOUSE, MARKETING & EVENTS COMMITTEE

(Staff)

12 RQYS 2050 Master Plan

WORKS, MAINTENANCE & SPECIAL PROJECTS COMMITTEE

(Staff) Chair

14 Feature:

Finn’s Shed

18 20 21

2024-25 Awards and Trophies

(Staff)

New Members

SAILING COMMITTEE

Chair

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 Design & Creative Printing: AllClear Images: All images in Mainsheet 2025 supplied by contributors; specific attributions noted as required. © Copyright 2025 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. Crossed the Bar COVERS: The excited Easter Egg hunt cracks off on Rigging Lawn 1!

Chair

YOUTH ADVISORY SUB-COMMITTEE

CRUISING & NAVIGATION COMMITTEE

(Staff)

Chair

Chief Executive Officer

Head Chef

Business Development Manager

Sailing Manager

Mark Dingley Adrian Finglas Simone Hasker

Head Coach

MANAGEMENT TEAM

Marketing & Communications Manager

Bistro Manager

Nathan Hennessey Wendy Johnston

Chief Financial Officer

Marina Manager

Glen Scott

Membership Manager

Alicia Soszynski Andy Williams

Hospitality & Functions Manager

Mainsheet 2025

CEO’s message

Welcome!

A note from our CEO: here’s to 2026! “Well, 2025 has so far proven to be another momentous year in the lives of our Squadron and our Members.”

Chief Executive Officer Karen Baldwin briefly reprises the first eight months of 2025 and looks forward, with well-grounded optimism, to the opening weeks of our 141st Season and the exciting events which will underpin the start of calendar year 2026 for all in our RQYS community!

With 2025 now more than halfway gone, it’s great to reflect on what has been achieved by Members and our team and the many changes which have occurred. First, a major change with our Food & Beverage operation took place in at the end of May and, from 1 June, RQYS has now employed an entire hospitality team and a kitchen brigade and, so far, this has been a very successful and important decision in its realisation. Members are happy, staff are happy and food (particularly Chef Chris’s Seafood Chowder) is receiving the big ‘thumbs up!’ Second, at the AGM in July, the Board elections have not only seen the return of Past Commodore David Redfern to the Board but also confirmed the appointment of Flag Officers Commodore Curtis Skinner, Vice Commodore Todd Anderson and Rear Commodore Chris Land. Last, whilst we congratulate all our competitive sailors, the news we received about young Rory Meehan being crowned U19 Men’s World Foiling Champion in Brest , France is just outstanding — well done, Rory!

Looking ahead, there are many great activities planned, including:  the 141st Opening of the Sailing Season on Saturday 30 August ;  the annual Canaipa Longhouse Party on Sunday 2 November ; … and, in February 2026, RQYS will be hosting three weeks of Finns racing with the Finn Nationals, Finn Silver & Gold Cup and the Finn World Masters! In closing, I want to mention that this ‘transitional’ edition of MAINSHEET which you are reading covers the eight months of 2025 since the completed 2024 publication last December.

The next annual print edition of MAINSHEET will be released on track, ahead of the Squadron’s Official Opening Day in 2026.

U19 Men’s iQFoil World Champion Rory Meehan! Images thanks to SailingEnergy.com

With all good wishes for our forthcoming 141st year,

Karen Baldwin Chief Executive Officer, RQYS n

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Royal Queensland Yacht Squadron Yearbook

Marina Manager’s report

PIC: Matthew Tesch

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Royal Queensland Yacht Squadron Yearbook

Marina Manager’s report

The Marina has continued to operate at a strong 97% occupancy throughout the year, with the trailer-boat hardstand at full capacity. Demand remains high, and we’ve seen a noticeable increase in Sealegs vessels — now with six on the hard. This shift reflects the evolving needs of our Members, and we’re adapting to meet them, reports Glen Scott. Marina team lifts services to Members It’s been a big first eight months of 2025, with very high demand met by friendly faces and streamlined processes.

Sue Guilbert remains a key figure in managing our Marina and Hardstand bookings so, if you’re seeking space, be sure to introduce yourself to her. Belinda Annan (now with the Squadron for 28 years!) has streamlined the Marina finances and we are very happy to have her in the Marina Office full-time: thanks for everything in almost three decades! The Boatyard remains in high demand — thanks to the quality work and lasting relationships of our contractors. With the Master Plan in motion, we’re all eager to see what the future holds. Canaipa will see a new couple join the Squadron this August, and we extend the warmest of welcomes to Craig and Sally Dixon as they take up residence at ‘the

Recent upgrades to our lighting systems have significantly improved safety and security around the precinct. The new lights are brighter and more energy- efficient — an important step forward in both functionality and sustainability.

My staff need special mention:

We’re pleased to welcome back Kate Morton to the RQYS team. Many of you will remember Kate from her previous time in the Marina Office. She has returned to manage the day-to-day operations of the Boatyard and support broader business functions. It’s great to have you back, indeed, Kate! A special mention also to Dave Fisher , who has now been with us for 18 months. Dave’s professionalism and commitment have made a real impact. I look forward to watching his continued growth here at RQYS.

jewel in our crown down the Bay ’ on Russell Island — be sure to say hello on your next visit! n

Glen Scott accepted the 2025 Nautilus Marine Insurance Marina of the Year Awards — Club of the Year.

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Royal Queensland Yacht Squadron Yearbook

Sailing Office report

FULL SAILING CALENDAR HERE: https://www.rqys.com.au/sailing-calendar

PICS: Mike Middleton

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Royal Queensland Yacht Squadron Yearbook

Sailing Office report

No such thing as a sailing ‘off season’… The Sailing Office has been busy in 2025 — too busy to list everything here! — so here is a brief wrap of highlights.

January is traditionally reserved for major events, and this year didn’t disappoint, notes Austin Sims (in Mark Dingley’s holiday absence) — we kicked off with three major national events back-to-back: the ILCA Open & Youth Championships, Musto Australian Optimist Championship, and the 18-ft Skiffs Australian Championship.

Mark your diaries — the 2026 edition of Brisbane Race Week runs 1–6 May!

Across these regattas, 492 sailors filled our rigging lawns and tooked to Moreton Bay in spectacular fashion. With January behind us, the familiar rhythm of the sailing season resumed: Saturday dinghy racing, Sunday Club yachts, interschool competitions, and our ever-growing Club foiling program. May marked the return of the increasingly popular Brisbane Race Week. Now in its third year, the regatta hosted 31 boats and over 200 sailors across six days of racing and social fun. Special credit goes to the dream team —Anton Prange and Race Officer Paul Bolton — whose leadership has helped shape this event into a calendar standout.

While May signals the beginning of the ‘off season,” RQYS doesn’t slow down.

In just the first three months of winter, we have hosted eight regattas and welcomed 869 sailors. None of this would be possible without our incredible Volunteers. Since January, they’ve logged more than 7,600 hours to support 2,257 competitors — a truly extraordinary effort. To every single Squadron Volunteer: thank you for not only helping but also making our Club thrive!

Our Sailing Manager Mark Dingley has returned from his jam-packed UK holiday just in time for our 141st Opening Day,

so I am pleased to hand the reins of the Sailing Office back to him! n

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Royal Queensland Yacht Squadron Yearbook

Sailing Academy update

PICS: Mike Middleton

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Royal Queensland Yacht Squadron Yearbook

Sailing Academy update

Academy comes home to more growth Patience rewarded the team’s ‘temporary’ tenure in the converted container, returning to business as usual(ish …) The Academy has had a fantastic start to the year, with strong participation across all Learn to Sail and Coaching programs. Interest continues to grow, and we’re thrilled to see more people getting involved at every level of our on- and off-water service offerings, exclaims Dominique Vlug, as the Academy team continues to grow!

We are excited to welcome Mettle , our new Sailing Academy sponsor, which has provided us with a brand-new hire boat sail for our Optimist and ILCA 4s. We would like to extend a huge thank-you for the additional support! Our long-standing partnership with Gumdale State School continues to thrive. Thanks to our close collaboration with the school, we have seen ongoing improvements to our programs and a steady increase in student participation. We’re also excited to welcome Wynnum State High School to our programs — now sailing in our Quests — alongside our regular school programs with Manly State School and Carmel College . The Youth Squad remains a cornerstone of our Academy, providing vital coaching and development for our up-and-coming sailors. Head Coach Adrian Finglas is on the water every day with our Club members, perfecting their skills and knowledge to prepare them to take on the rest of the world.

The ILCA 4.7 and 6 Squads, ’49ers, Optis, and 470 classes have been particularly busy as RQYS team members head over to their respective European and World championships. As the Brisbane Olympics is only seven years away, our 13-16 years-old sailors will be in a perfect position to represent Australia at the home games! We’ve seen enormous demand for our Learn to Sail courses — for both children and adults — and are actively exploring ways to increase capacity so we can meet this growing interest, while our powerboat courses have also seen a big surge in popularity. To meet demand, we’ve increased the number of sessions and added extra courses throughout the year. In March, we welcomed Alanna Field to the Academy team as our new On-water Academy Co-ordinator. Alanna works closely with our instructors and coaches to ensure the smooth delivery of our on-water programs, and plays a key role

(Adrian has actually also managed to carve out time to compete in the VXone Winter Nationals with two Australian Olympic gold medal-winning gurus: Nathan Willmont and Malcolm Page!) In May this year, we finally moved back into the Sailing Academy office next to the Tackers Lawn, centralising our operations and helping us streamline our delivery. Academy team L–R: Dominique Vlug, Kate Myles, newcomer Alanna Field & Adrian Finglas We’re proud of what we’ve achieved so far this year and excited for what lies ahead in the second half, including Master Classes for our Coaches! n

in developing our coaching team alongside Head Coach Adrian.

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Royal Queensland Yacht Squadron Yearbook

Youth Advisory Sub-Committee report

PIC: Adobe Stock / Dogora Sun

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Royal Queensland Yacht Squadron Yearbook

Youth Advisory Sub-Committee report

Young sailors develop keener insights Not everyone can — nor aspires to — be an Olympian, and there’s no shortage of other sailing career prospects! The recently formed Youth Advisory Sub-Committee (YASC) has begun 2025 by investigating the drop-out of Youth Squad Members as they become young adults, working with RQYS Membership Manager Alicia Soszynski to gain insights into the Squadron’s membership database and identify potential retention opportunities.

Working with figures and reviewing membership data from numerous years has opened discussions about initiatives to prolong Young Adult membership retention at RQYS. The YASC team has been meeting and developing programs that work to expose young Members to more diverse opportunities that are available at the Squadron. Some goals of the YASC are to mentor young sailors into knowing that there is a diverse range of opportunities available at RQYS — from inshore and offshore yacht racing to power boat navigation (‘Log’) events and on to different professional careers in the marine industry. YASC members know only too well that the cost of self-funded sailing can be a big limitation to young adult participation in the sport. With this in mind, we have worked to develop a Social Training Program for the 2025–26 141st Sailing Season which looks to offer low-cost training options in the RQYS Sailing Academy Elliott 6 training boats on Friday afternoons. This program aims to not only provide a more affordable means of sailing but also looks to upskill sailors through small keelboat skills to be able to progress into wider yachting programs. Social Training will also seek to provide networking opportunities for owners to interact with potential crews and, once young sailors are confident with their abilities, they can progress into more crewing for race teams.

The Social Training concept proved popular in its initial trial towards the end of the previous sailing season so, with some learned adjustments, will make a resurgence to kick off the new Season! In June, YASC hosted a Topic Talk on ‘Careers in Sailing’ in the Auditorium. The evening walked guests through the opportunities that can become available in sailing by working as a tradesperson in the industry. YASC greatly appreciated our guest speakers Chris Anderson (Yacht Rigger and owner of Rope Solutions Rigging Services ) and Stacey Jackon (Sailmaker and owner of NautiBags and 27 South Ocean Training ) for delivering a really inspriring evening on where their trades have taken them professionally. From sailing in multiple Rolex Sydney- Hobart Races to crewing on yachts in Europe, or completing multiple laps of the world in The (formerly Volvo) Ocean Race, there were many eye-opening stories on where a hobby can take you into a career. North Sails’ Asia-Pacific multihull specialist Ben Kelly was unfortunately unable to make the evening, however he took time to record and deliver a video on his career and how a sail is created from scratch at North Sails.

YASC Chair Hayden Barney hosts the Topic Talk

This provided great insights of the design-to-production process of a sail and offered young sailors ideas on how to become part of the sail-making industry and work with clients internationally. All-round, the evening delivered many perspectives on where sailing can take someone without Olympic aspirations or world-leading achievements. All the presenters have vast backgrounds in sailing and haven’t chased the Olympic pathway to get there. YASC has also been looking into Youth and Young Adult membership events, including post-race BBQs, ‘Intro to Log We will continue to work towards these and other initiatives into the future and look forward to working with Squadron Members more broadly — so, if you have any ideas around youth or young adult sailing, please email the YASC team at: YASC@rqys.com.au n Event’ information sessions and a ‘Young Adults in Sailing Ball.’

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Royal Queensland Yacht Squadron Yearbook

Hospitality operations update

PIC: Matthew Tesch

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Royal Queensland Yacht Squadron Yearbook

Hospitality operations update

What may have initially seemed like a simple menu-refresh has instead revealed itself to be a golden opportunity for restoring pride, redefining standards, and renewing not only our boardwalk but also the reputation and enviable destination of one of Brisbane’s most prestigious waterfront dining venues at our Squadron’s Bistro. Bistro and boardwalk light up renewed In early June, we ‘returned to our roots’ and resumed full control of our kitchen, relaunching our own F&B teams.

Modernising the menu and wine list has offered the chance to blend tradition with innovation. Introducing fresh, seasonal, locally-sourced dishes, we celebrate contemporary tastes while still honouring the Squadron’s rich history. Members’ deep connection to classic favourites makes attaining this balance even more rewarding. A highlight has been the return of our signature Seafood Chowder, a timeless dish that once again takes pride of place on the menu and is yet a ‘taste’ of things to come. Rebuilding the team provides another exciting opportunity. With fresh talent joining the cohort, we can foster a culture of passion, consistency, and professionalism. Similarly, investing in new equipment and refining supplier relationships allows us to streamline service, ensuring smoother operations and an even better dining experience for Members and guests. Front of house, we have lots planned for the coming Season, in addition to the regular annual Member events, including the new ‘Opera on the Lawn’ in September, a return ‘Food and Wine Expo’ in November and a special New Year’s Eve party with fireworks this year! By now, readers will surely have enjoyed the expansive new boardwalk which serves to expand our seating capacity and maximise our enviable waterfront setting. Every hurdle we have encountered since re-folding our F&B approach back in-house is a stepping stone towards excellence. We are so pleased to see such positive feedback filtering in from Members, guests and visitors and, importantly, providing our Squadron with clear data to support the shift. We invite all Members, readers and friends to experience this reinvigorated approach for themselves. Come and enjoy a refreshed Spring 2025 menu from early September, a revitalised atmosphere, and the warm hospitality. Chef Chris, Bistro Manager Nathan and Functions Manager Andy and the entire team look forward to saying “welcome back!” n

These Seafood Chowders did not long survive ‘Spikey-Mikey’ Middleton’s photos!

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Royal Queensland Yacht Squadron Yearbook

RQYS 2050 Master Plan

Due to be finalised later this year, and developed in partnership with Urbis , BVN , Cavill Architects and Little Boat Projects , the plan presents a bold vision to shape the future of the Squadron, one that strengthens its role as a leader in sailing excellence while delivering meaningful benefits to Members and the broader community. Bold Master Plan defined and unveiled The recent release of “RQYS 2050” has been years in the making, and is a foundation of our expansive future vision.

Our “ RQYS 2050 ” plan focuses on not only enhancing facilities but also the overall Member and community experience. Key initiatives include: ► Clubhouse relocation to reconnect the site with the Bay and allow for visual connection to sailing; ► Dinghy access reducing the time taken to traverse from ramp to open water; ► Sailboard integration with the main Clubhouse; ► Centralise all marine services and supporting businesses to a dedicated space removed from the Clubhouse; ► Investigate commercial opportunities to increase revenue streams for the Squadron, which may include mixed-- use residential, boat-stackers and more.

At its heart, the Manly 2050 Master Plan is about ambition and opportunity. RQYS is planning for growth that will see our membership and berthing capacity double by 2050, positioning the Squadron as a world-class hub for sailing, boating and community engagement. The RQYS plan aligns seamlessly with broader government strategies from global to local levels — including the Brisbane 2032 Olympic Games and BCC’s own foreshore plans for Wynnum/Manly — thus ensuring the Squadron’s development complements the region’s long-term vision to cater to continued population growth in Southeast Queensland, as well as the increasing worldwide focus on our city and Moreton Bay.

Local Brisbane City Council (BCC) and State Department of Transport & Main Roads (DTMR) Government consultations have intersected with our own RQYS Master Plan evolution and our reviews of options.

PIC: Brown Dog Production

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Royal Queensland Yacht Squadron Yearbook

RQYS 2050

In particular, Members strongly supported:  A Clubhouse that connects directly with the Bay  Safe, convenient dinghy access;  Elevated Member experience with new wellness, childcare, and accommodation facilities;  A ‘sailing excellence centre’ for training and elite performance;  Smarter use of space with vertical integration of marine services;  Public realm improvements to benefit the wider community; and  Consideration of high-end residential and commercial opportunities to support youth sailing. The RQYS Master Plan will now progress through further consultation with Members, community stakeholders, and government authorities before an agreed outcome is finalised. Once complete, it will establish a clear pathway to deliver growth, world-class facilities, and a vibrant legacy for RQYS and the Manly community. This process positions RQYS not only as a premier sailing institution but also as a key local driver of community, environmental, and economic value. By aligning Member needs with bold ambitions, the Squadron is not only shaping the future of sailing but also creating a vibrant, inclusive destination for generations to come — a bold new chapter indeed in our 140-year story. n

Developing the plan to this point, with the aim of its completion by the end of this year, has kept four central objectives as its focus: 1 People – Keeping Members at the heart of every decision by enhancing facilities and experiences; 2 Boats – Establishing ‘Regatta Central’ and improving access to the water with safe dinghy and sailboard facilities; 3 Place – Reconnecting the Clubhouse to the Bay, enhancing rigging lawns and activating new spaces for social and wellness activities; and 4 Legacy – Leaving a lasting impact through environmental stewardship, community integration, and sustainable growth. To unlock this vision, the Master Plan has to also factor how it will significantly expand berth capacity by potentially reclaiming more land, while protecting natural habitats and providing public benefit.

Engagement Day feedback revealed strong support for options with a prominent, accessible Clubhouse integrating sailing, rigging lawns, and community facilities.

Commodore Curtis Skinner with the State MP for Lytton, Joan Pease, at our Champagne Brunch Master Plan Community Engagement Day on 17 May in the Girdis Room.

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Royal Queensland Yacht Squadron Yearbook

Feature: Finn’s Boat Shed

Our Squadron’s silent ‘engine room’ A ‘Baker’s dozen’ of Volunteers in Finn’s Boat Shed is the quiet power underpinning our Club’s ongoing operations. They’re ‘hiding in plain sight’ behind a forest of masts in a corner of the RQYS Precinct — and prefer it that way, as Matthew Tesch discovered, when asked to illuminate the invaluable efforts of these (mostly) retirees, whose generous gifts of time, knowledge, skills, experience and expertise enable the safe operation of all our Club’s watercraft.

“If it doesn’t float, we don’t touch it,” is the unofficial motto of the Finn’s Shed crew, says its ‘chief engineer’ Noel (“Patto”) Paterson, our unassuming winner of the 2024 Australian Sailing (Queensland) Lifetime Achievement Award ( see last year’s Mainsheet, page 9 ) who was ‘forced’ to celebrate his 75th birthday in fine style — and with a special cake! — at the RQYS Bistro earlier this year. “That’s maybe not 100 per-cent true,” Patto goes on to say, after a thoughtful pause, “but keeping RQYS boats — of all kinds — on the water and ready for use is certainly our primary goal. We do everything that needs to be done to keep these boats operational, and I think we’ve got upwards of 70 or so …” It’s a modest understatement from a bloke who’s been a driver of the essential support, repair and renewal services given to our Squadron, its gear and to our Members, and who keeps getting caught in the headlights of numerous awards, accolades and recognition of his Volunteering and ‘giving back’ ethos, despite eschewing such limelights. Finn’s Shed is, officially, six years-old this year, but 2018 is when the story really started: Mick “St Mick” Mallan was looking for something productive on which to focus after retiring and Patto, as a Volunteer on the Sailing Committee, was lamenting the lack of affordable maintenance work on the Squadron’s flotillas of Optis, RhIBs and various other boats on the rolls. According to Patto today, Sailing Manager Mark Dingley’s response then to his repeated “whingeing about maintenance” (Patto’s words) is either unrecalled or unprintable (depending on who you talk to) but the outcome quickly coalesced around a core group of Volunteers determined to do something about the issue. They started operating from a ‘temporary’ 20-foot TEU container before shifting to a shed (which, for 10 years, was the Sailing Office) until — several concrete slabs, some posts and new roofing later — the Finn’s Shed crew found themselves, at last, in 2025, in a dedicated new home (and a “mini-chandlery” workshop) with a 40-foot TEU as an adjunct facility, one kitted-out with benches lined with donated machines, tools and electrical equipment. And that’s one thing about truly passionate personal commitments: they become a bright light which attracts others similarly inclined — whether it’s to (privately) donate equipment or to (publicly-ish) give of time and talent — in support of a worthy cause and a shared vision and sense of responsibility and duty. Origins

L: Patto receives his 75th birthday cake at a special RQYS Bistro gathering earlier

this year. (Pic: MM)

Background image: Mick “St Mick” Mallan sits guard over the immaculate fresh (still wet!) coat of varnish on an expansive benchtop. (Pic: MT)

L: Patto presides over just one section of the “ “mini-chandlery” that is crucial to the Finn’s Shed Volunteers’ work. (Pic: MT)

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Royal Queensland Yacht Squadron Yearbook

Feature: Finn’s Shed

Personal motivations

Above: the Finn’s Shed crew Rear L- R: Mick Mallan, Graham Early, P/Cdre Greg Clarke, Don Murray Front L-R: David Healey, Peter Constant, Noel Paterson, Phil Tooth, David Thomas, Spikey Mikey Middleton AWOL: Arthur Gough, Don Tanner

One Patto remark is especially revealing: “What bothers me most is if we were a couple of boats down and the kids were left short.” In other words: whether an unserviceable RhIB, or a handful of Tackers Optis being unavailable, then the consequent denial of on-water opportunities for our young sailors is a viscerally- felt motivation for him. “I was also drawn in by the personal and socialising aspects,” reminisces Patto, “and now they’re all mates,” he said, as he cast his gaze around the Finn’s Shed work area and crew members during our conversation. It’s a sentiment shared by others in Finn’s Shed. St Mick leans in to add “some like looking after particular boats” — for instance, Arthur Gough’s passion for ensuring that all boats are ready for every weekend’s Squadron events and regattas, Don Murray and John Ward’s focus on the upkeep of Squadron mainstay “Vic Frizzell” , and the shared pride in keeping our Shark cats “Goodwill ” and “Myora” refreshed for each new Season’s requirements. St Mick arrived today with a hand-repaired rudder, while chatting with Patto concerned that his efforts may prove longer-lasting than the original fitting itself. Such a repair — and there are many rebuilt and new, freshly-varnished rudders and centreboards and hanging in the Finn’s Shed workshop — could cost anywhere upwards of $250 outsourced; instead, it costs RQYS next-to-nothing thanks to these amazing Volunteers. It’s a common theme running through these blokes’ efforts: vast worlds of experience invested in repairing and refreshing gear to safely extend longevity for future generations of young sailors whilst minimising Squadron running-costs Patto brings the benefits of a career in construction, Peter “Consty” Constant’s background is electrical and Graham “Harps” Early’s speciality is tools, specifically their keen edges and professional upkeep for the team. Recent addition to the crew Don Tanner has brought a wealth of hands-on and teaching skills across from the Mt Gravatt Men’s Shed — prompting St Mick to pipe up and proudly state “and I just love coming here to learn every week, too!” Above and beyond saving our Club’s money and time in maintenance and operational readiness, the personal pride — in workmanship as well as in contribution — is truly palpable. First-class calibre

R: Relaminated and freshly re-varnished centreboards are hung carefull to dry in the Shed. (Pic: MT)

R: The still-visible crack in St Mick’s repaired rudder will be bonded and faired to invisibility before being re-shipped on one of the Squadron’s dinghies. (Pic: MT)

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Royal Queensland Yacht Squadron Yearbook

Feature: Finn’s Boat Shed

There’s talent aplenty across all aspects of marine woodwork, fibreglass, finishes and basic metalwork — but an extra pair of hands with welding expertise would be a welcome addition to the already impressive capabilities of Finn’s Shed. A little later, St Mick shows me a broken Opti mast’s pair of pole segments. He’s sourced an inner sleeve ‘plug’ and machined all components to securely fit together to create a whole new mast —and, moreover, in doing so, lifted the ‘gooseneck’ fitting (which anchors the boom) so that it’s elevated a crucial few inches more above head-hight of our young Tackers sailors … that’s first-class attention to detail. Technically, maintenance / operational readiness job taskings are compiled by the Sailing Manager / Office to feed on to RQYS Volunteer Co-ordinator Phil Tooth for ‘whiteboard job-ticket’ assignment to one or more of the Finn’s Shed crew via Patto’s oversight of said-whiteboard on the wall of one of the TEU containers. It’s a neat balance, with the Sailing Office across regatta and event plans and Phil in daily operational contact with boats and bodies on launching ramps and rigging lawns. There’s a morning brief, every Thursday’s gathering, to see who’s brought in ‘homework’ and to identify priorities — especially for the imminent weekend’s activities — before those present go about deploying workbenches, mixing two-packs or fine-sanding last week’s varnish. On pain of jovial ribbing, one of the cohort will be tasked with bringing cake for morning tea, with Donna Paterson closer to midday providing an esky or two containing lunch of sandwiches and heartier fare (the cost of which foodstuffs is borne by a grateful Squadron). Numbers in attendance can vary, depending on (often, medical) appointments or the sea’s Siren-call: P/Cdre Greg Clarke’s absence up north over a couple of Thursdays for the Hamilton island / Airlie Beach race weeks being entirely understood (if not quietly envied) by the group. How it all works Thanks to a steady stream of donations over the past half-decade, Finn’s Shed now has the makings of, to quote Patto, “a mini-chandlery” that’s increasingly able to support the growing gamut of work done, away from the public eye, by these RQYS Volunteers. “A lot of the individuals and businesses which have given us stuff — equipment, tools or whatever — over the years have done so privately, without fuss or any desire for acknowledgement,” Patto tells me, “and, if you don’t mind, I’d like to keep it that way out of respect for their wishes and support.” Behind the scenes

SQUADRON FLEET ASSETS INCLUDE: • 17 x RhIBs • 3 x Start / Finish boats • 6 x Elliott 6s • 1 x Fareast 28r • 5 x ILCAs (Lasers) • 12 x fibreglass Optis • 26 x ‘Ozi Optis’ (Tackers / plastic Optis) • 6 x RS Quests • 3 x Hanser dinghies • 20 x SUPs (stand-up paddle boards) • 7 x Foiling windsurfers • 12 x Windsurfers (‘Bic boards’)

Remember that ramp scenes like this are largely only possible thanks to the behind-the-scenes efforts of the Finn’s Shed crew of Volunteers!

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Royal Queensland Yacht Squadron Yearbook

Feature: Finn’s Boat Shed

“But,” he says, shooting me a glance which brooks no argument, “there’s three special ‘shout-outs’ that really deserve to be made. Until we can get a welder and gear of our own, Sea Dog Marine has been a huge help (Matty’s awesome!) to us. Y’know Des from AA Composites over at Hemmant? That bloke’s expertise is only an arm’s-length away to ask for advice and help us out with supplies. And, talking of having a ‘mini-chandlery’ here, we’ve also got a very good relationship with Jason at Muir Marine , who helps us out big-time.

“We’re very, very fortunate — as is the Squadron — to have this kind of support.”

How to help

As might be imagined, the Optimists in the Tackers fleet incur the heaviest knocks and rougher wear’n’tear, as young little sailors begin their journies of discovery afloat: busted booms, cracked centreboards and ‘rooted rudders’ are par for the course but, as every mariner should be acutely aware, no-one is immune from the capricious whims of the sea, so the asks of the Finn’s Shed crew are as diverse as the 90-odd watercraft in the RQYS fleets.

FINN’S SHED ‘WISH-LIST’ • Cordless power tools, such as drills, power saws, drop saws, blowers, etc • Hot knives • Fibreglass supplies: polyester resin, epoxy resin, various fibreglass, chopped strand, woven rovings, various tapes, acetone, etc • Painting supplies: various size brushes, paint trays (plastic), various rollers, sandpapers, etc • Various timbers: 90 x 35/45, 70 x 35, marine ply, structural ply, etc • Chandlery items –— mostly for dinghies: shackles, pulleys, 316 stainless hose clamps and fixings, screws, bolts and nuts, etc • Various ropes (marine), mostly dinghy size; polyester mooring line (say, 12–14 mm), etc HOW TO DONATE Please, first text a pic or two of your item/s, along with brief description/s of condition, quantity, etc to Patto on 0413 739 058 and let him know a good time for a call-back to chat about your kind offer.

“Crikey, we chew through a mountain of 316 [stainless-steel] fittings,” muses Patto, “of all kinds, for all manner of rigs and boats; can never have too many.”

He gestures over his shoulder towards the (strangely) embarrassingly ‘naked’ aluminium shell of a trailered RhIB devoid of its inflatable tubes. “RQ came by two of these second-hand; number five has been done up and is back in the water and on duty, but we’ve still got a way to go with number six, as you can see here — and that’s everything from metal / bonds to tubes / seals and the instrumentation, electrics and so on … not a small job, but we can do it if we’ve got the right gear.” If you’ve passed it on the water — or it’s passed you — then there’s a better-than fair chance you’ve just seen some Finn’s Shed experience, craftsmanship and TLC in action go by. If you want to help these blokes (and Donna!) help keep RQYS assets in the best of nick for the smallest of costs, then check out Patto’s key list of asks here and see what might be sitting spare in your shed. “Actually,” Patto added, “quite often there can be a lot of really valuable leftovers after someone’s been hauled-out — surplus paint or resin, unused brushes or mixing trays and tools, masking tape, that sort of stuff — which would come in very handy, if owners were to think of us.” n

Graham Early in “Harp’s Corner” is the devoted custodian of the grinders and other bench tools needed to keep the Shed’s equipment in top condition. Pic: MT

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Royal Queensland Yacht Squadron Yearbook

2024–25 Awards, Trophies and Prizes

24–25 • JUNIOR & SENIOR MAJOR SAILING & VOLUNTEER AWARDS

TROPHY WINNERS Overall Most Improved Junior Skipper – T E Passey Trophy Most Consistent Junior Skipper – Trophy: Harold Dean Memorial Trophy Junior Sailor Best National Championship – Trophy: Vidgen Perpetual Cup Junior Sailor of the Year – Trophy: Lady Stonehaven Challenge Cup Youth Sailor of the Year – Trophy: W A O’Hare Memorial Trophy Squadron Champion of an Olympic Class – Trophy: Astra Trophy Longest Serving Season Points Winner – Trophy: The Governor’s Trophy

VOLUNTEER CONTRIBUTION AWARDS

Peter Constant Graham Early Arthur Gough David Healey Evan Johnston Mick Mallon Donna Paterson Noel Paterson David Thomas Nelly Bolton Paul Bolton P/Cdre Greg Clarke

Mila Gan

James Dale

Lucas Patrick

Member Facilities Volunteer Award

Joshua Dale

Rory Meehan

Phil Danks

David Healey

Most Consistent Senior Skipper – Trophy: Callisto Cup

David Healey

David Kemp Don Murray Phil Tooth Rod West

Special Contributor Award

Most Consistent Contributor – Trophy: Maurice Tilley Memorial Trophy

P/Cdre Greg Clarke

Spirit of Sailing – Trophy: Spirit of Sailing Trophy

Hayden Barney

Corinthian Yachtsman of the Year – Trophy: Corinthian Yachtsman Trophy

No award

Louise Bright Alan Crawford Michael James Beryl Roberts

Leading Forward Hand – P/Cdre Greg Clarke Trophy Best Performing Female Crew – Trophy: Erica Blumson Trophy

William Bridge

Special Commendation Award

Ayla Barney

Cruising & Navigation Volunteer Award

Jan Ralph

Offshore Yacht of the Year – Trophy: James Clark Memorial Trophy Best Performance in an Olympic Class – Trophy: J H Robinson Memorial Trophy

FIKA

Social Events Volunteer Award

Trish Brewer Ian Thomason

Mara Stransky

Ladies Skipper Award

Jan Kemp

Keelboat Crew of the Year – Trophy: E Sparkes Trophy

GAUNTLET

Marine Sports Volunteer Award

Anton Prange

RQYS SAILOR OF THE YEAR • DUNCAN HINE

SECOND YEAR IN A ROW! Trophy: Hardy Brothers Jewellers Trophy & Seiko Watch from Wallace Bishop Jewellers

YACHTSHARE CLUB MEMBER OF THE YEAR • LOUISE DAVIS

“This year’s recipient has received nominations for being a great mentor, a fountain of knowledge and a huge asset to the Club, but that is just the tip of the iceberg. “Louise continually demonstrates a passion for the sport, promoting high standards from lifelong experience. At every opportunity on and off the water, she generously offers encyclopedic knowledge, making it a pleasure to volunteer with her. “She is praised for striving to achieve the very best race management for the sailors, the volunteer race management team and of course our Club. Experienced in both national and international RO it is easy to see why Louise excels when regattas are held at RQYS.” n

(Words by Jan Kemp and Guy Morton)

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Royal Queensland Yacht Squadron Yearbook

2024–25 Awards, Trophies and Prizes

WALLYGATOR 2024–25 • JUNIOR and SENIOR SAILING AWARDS ILCA 6 Squadron Championship PHOENIX Simon Small Joshua Dale

Optimists Squadron Championship Seasons Points Scratch Seasons Points Handicap RS Feva Squadron Championship Seasons Points Scratch Seasons Points Handicap Windfoils 1st (U19 & Overall) Season Points Scratch Raceboards Squadron Championship Seasons Points Scratch Seasons Points Handicap OK Dinghies Squadron Championship Seasons Points Scratch Season Points Handicap 29er Class Squadron Championship Seasons Points Handicap Hobie 16 Class Squadron Championship Seasons Points Scratch Seasons Points Handicap Finns Seasons Points Scratch Seasons Points Handicap Etchells Squadron Championship Seasons Points Scratch Seasons Points Handicap VX Ones Squadron Championship Seasons Points Scratch Seasons Points Handicap IL CA 4 Squadron Championship Seasons Points Scratch Seasons Points Handicap Seasons Points Scratch iQFoils 1st (U19)

Seasons Points Scratch Season Points Handicap ILCA 7 Squadron Championship Season Points Scratch

Phil Danks

VIVANT

William Tribe & Mason Crawford

Andrew Stransky

TAMATOA

QI

Phil Danks

Seasons Points Handicap VIVANT

Northern Course - Mixed Squadron Championship

Lucas Patrick

NERO

Luke Rogers & Kris Bilston

HARVEY Season Points Handicap Seasons Points Handicap Northern Course - Mixed Catamarans Squadron Championship

Rory Meehan Jarrod Jones

GERONIMO SEVULONI

Bella Wilson & Matthew Hatton

FLYING FISH

Season Points Scratch Seasons Points Handicap Southern Course - Mixed Squadron Championship Season Points Handicap Seasons Points Handicap Division 1 Yachts PHS Squadron Championship

Kenzie Gargan & Gian Bilson

Russell Cooper

VOODOO CHILE

JERRY

Simon Tribe & Emma Masters

Steven Shale

MINERVA

PRINCESS LEIA

SHADES OF GREY Rick Thompson

Elspeth Clifford & Iris Beebe

HEIHEI

Tony Craner

Seasons Points Passage Series Around the Cans

BALANCING ACT

Ayesha & Elysia Albery

VITAMIN SEA

Peter Milliken

GAUNTLET

Division 1 Yachts IRC Squadron Championship

Seasons Points Passage Series Around the Cans

Peter & Juliet Bates

CRAZY IVAN

Peter Milliken

GAUNTLET

Division 2 Yachts PHS Squadron Championship

Lucas Prescott Tristan Perez

AUS98 LONYA

Seasons Points Passage Series Around the Cans

Richard Dagwell

SWALLOW

David Healey, Ian Miller & Kevin Molen

RAPSCALLION

Division 2 Yachts IRC Squadron Championship Seasons Points Passage Series Around the Cans WAGS Super Series Monohull Super Series Multihull

Tony Shaw

NO SECRETS

Alan Moffatt, Ben Franklin & Josh Franklin

MACK ONE

Shane McKay

KERAZY

James Dale

GET SALTY

Timothy Maddern

CATHRINE MARY

Goodwill Cup PHS 1st Goodwill Cup IRC 1st

ROOSTER RACING Wilbur Bright

Tony Shaw

NO SECRETS

DRAKE’S PRAYER Graham Latham

JUNIOR SAILOR OF THE YEAR • JOSHUA DALE

Trophy: Lady Stonehaven Challenge Cup

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Royal Queensland Yacht Squadron Yearbook

New Members joining in 2025

Welcome aboard! We are thrilled to announce more than 200 faces joining and returning to RQYS across all membership categories in the first seven months of this year alone. We hope they enjoy the Squadron’s many facilities afloat and ashore!

FULL Matt Arnold Michael Bailey Stephen Ball Michael Bishop George Blair-West Blake Boulton

FULL Philip Everson Mark Facey Darryl Funch

FULL Michael Jennings Roy Kidd Ben King Dugald King Tom King Shane Koreman Chris McGregor Rachael McGuin Craig McLaughlin Ian Mewett Annemaree Neale Chris Newby Mike Noad Jeff Lynne Brian May

FULL Bruce Norman Greg O'Sullivan Michael Pease Ross Phillips Mikayla Pitkin Anthony Proberts Hayden Quaife

FULL Oliver Sinclair Bucky Smith Peter Smith

Sam Grant Brad Green David Hall Simon Hann Brett Hart James Hart Warwick Hastwell Mark Heath Patrick Hoare Ian James

Ian Staples Karl Sturm

Kristian Swart Lisa Symonds Bill Tincknell Stewart Walls Dave Watts Greg Webb David Wilkinson Tim Wood ABSENTEE

Ben Brooks Earl Brown Marty Byrne Peter Cheney

Nick Ramsay Nick Rawlings Craig Rose Darren Scott Ryan Scott Hugh Scott-Mackenzie Ian Seccombe Tina Sheu

Rob Cleland Dan Clifford Andrew Dance Josh De Menech Malcolm Dickie

Neil Jamieson John Jennings

Matthew Doyle

JUNIOR Angelina Abela-Cappellano Lucciano Abela-Cappellano Seb Birch

JUNIOR

JUNIOR

JUNIOR

YOUNG ADULT

Toby Herbert Piper Hope Mylo Huang Sam Hughes Jack Jones

Grace Moon Oliver Moorcroft Lachlan Murray Niall O'Regan Lucas Parker Rory Pattenden Kiki Phelps Brandon Ramsey Max Ravu Hugh Rowell CREW Katherine Maslen Bradley Nann Larry Nielsen Kieran O'Hanlon Kaceey Otago Lisa Palethorpe Nadia Punselie Ian Robinson Dana Saulter Cameron Scott Jason Simes Duff Tennant Angus Thomson Seb Turner Izaak Van Loon

Alex Scott Jack Sturm

Ishan Bose Luke Carrington Sam Climo Brody de Jonge Helena Hart Matthew Hatton Kira Lesh Vlada Polyakova Cameron Scott-Mackenzie Will Slator

Izak Van Niekerk Kyan Van Niekerk Sam Wallace Cameron Warner Isabella Winks Evan Zhang

Jerry Chang Angus Chen Zihe Cheng Michelle Crisp

Lala Kamalan Hamish King Austin McConnel Luna Maslen Rae Mathis CREW David Bamford Ian Berger Michael Borrott Ash Brunning Hayley Cooksey Petra DeAraugo Damon Eisen Jennifer Fitzgibbon

Emily Cross Fraser Giles Dulane Goonetilleke

FULL – SPOUSE/PARTNER Chontelle Clark Simone Hart Michael Swan Aleta Barker Andrew Barney Steve Clark Jayme Fitzgerald Karen Griffin Ana Hobbs-Brown Jane Kemsley

COUNTRY Matthew Anderson Josh Boniface Amanda Casebier Chris Green Susan Hextell Phillip Huelin Bret Lashmar Andrew Marshall David Nielsen Dave O'Connor Banu Oney Sinkers Sinclair

SOCIAL Roger Andrews Brenton Bower Peter Bradford Elizabeth Chen Shelly Dyer Leanne Ellis Bruce Fleming Evan Hill Danny Jordin Dale Lindsay James Mullen Blake Murray George O'Brien Molly O'Donnell Iain Roebuck Rowena Roebuck Amanda Ryan Frank Ryan Ray Smith-Roberts

Chris Hinton Luke Hobbs Mark Jents

Kirsty Lough Daniela Miller Katrina Murphy Natalie Parkes Heather Reed Jan Stevenson Lauren Webb Susannah York

Jasna Kalinov James Knight Desmond Lawson James Logan Lynn Lucas Claire McQueen Dani Mahl

Chad Walker David Zhang

Danny Vinkl Robert Vrind Ashley Young

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Royal Queensland Yacht Squadron Yearbook

Crossed the Bar

In memoriam

1 January — 31 July 2025

Ms Jennifer Heyworth-Smith Mr Ian White

Mr Greg Watson Mr Brian Nielsen Ms Joan Long Mr Seia Akhavan Ms Della Daley Mr Graeme Muller P/Cdre Steven Morris Mr Charles Reeves

Ms Erina Harris Mrs Treva Miall Mr Malcolm Campbell Mr Robert Hyland Mr John Pforr

Remembering those Members who have gone before us this year …

PIC: Matthew Tesch

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Royal Queensland Yacht Squadron Yearbook

10am - 4pm | RQYS Canaipa SUNDAY, 2 NOV 2025

MEMBERS ONLY EVENT FAST Ferry Transfer option $35pp BOOK ASAP

RQYS 2025 MEMBER’S DAY AT CANAIPA PRESENTS

LIVE MUSIC | GOURMET BURGERS & FRESH SEAFOOD | SUNSHINE Come along by Fast Ferry Transfer or your own boat/car and enjoy a day of relaxation and sunshine - why not arrive on Saturday and stay the night aboard or camp on our gorgeous grounds?

“Dick, Nick and Mick “will be entertaining with live music to get the party going, and gourmet burgers and fresh seafood will be available for sale. Beer, wine & soft drinks available for purchase or BYO.

REGISTRATION ESSENTIAL CLOSING DATE SUN 26 OCTOBER

via QR Code or call Reception on 07 3396 8666 REGISTER NOW

RQYS.COM.AU