Greetings everyone

As we head into the mid-season Xmas break it is appropriate for us all to pause and reflect on the fortunate position we are in. Five months ago we were just starting to see restrictions ease and contemplating if we would have a sailing season at all. With some caution, your committee set about implementing required protocols and developing a program which, although in line with previous years, might have been seen as optimistic. For the first half of the season, operations have been almost back to normal with fleet numbers across all events at levels not seen for some years.

My observation is that our members and supporters are doing more than coming to the club to go racing and win a trophy. Being a club member really is about joining in, helping out, mixing with others and enjoying the benefits of being part of a wider boating community. As always, volunteers are pivotal to making it all happen. This season, in particular, many members have contributed across the board either with works and maintenance, running sailing events (both on & off water support), canteen & bar operations, or general administration. To all those who have volunteered – thankyou. I would also highlight the extensive work done by our club officers, general committee and sub-committee members. Much of this is behind the scenes but absolutely essential for the club to function; plus this year there have been many fresh challenges to deal with.

In the New Year, we have a busy time ahead with peak season and sailing on multiple days per week. The SB20 State Titles in late January will be a marquee event and the Blockbuster Weekend late February is shaping up as one of the biggest ever for its 20^th anniversary. More volunteers will be required and if you haven’t yet had an opportunity to be involved we look forward to hearing from you (no experience required!).

To those sailing in Ocean Races and National Championships, good luck and safe sailing. In the L2H our club will be represented by crews sailing  “Advantedge” – Andrew Jones, “Honey Pot” – Nick McElwee, “Sassy” – Tim White, and “Odessa” – Paul Badcock.  In the Sydney Hobart, member and former VC Callum Cecil will be on the TP52 “Celestial”. The NS14 Nationals are to be held at Gosford, NSW, and our representatives will be defending National Junior champions Ruby Edmunds & Magnus McIndoe in “Fast Asleep”, together with Barrie McIndoe & Terina Enniss in “Walk on the Wild Side”. The NS14s had a tough time with the bushfires in Canberra last season so hopefully, this year will be kinder.

As I write, uncertainty prevails again with potential direct impact on all of us, our Xmas plans and major sailing events. It is a time to keep a focus on the bigger picture, do what we need to stay safe and keep each other safe. Best wishes and see you at the Club in the New Year.

Greg Rowsell

Commodore