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13_Yachtsman 2015.qxp_Yachtsman Magazine 19/08/2015 4:32 pm Page 60

Activities
2014-15 Sailing Season Opening Day
By Damien Devine

Bronwyn Bishop firing the cannon

It was a wet day for the 2014/15 Sailing Season Opening Day last Saturday at The After the Commodore declared the Sailing Season Open, the Honourable Bronwyn
Royal Prince Alfred Yacht Club, but a bit of rain wasn't going to dampen the spirits Bishop fired the cannon and over 30 boats braved the weather for the traditional
of the over 500 members and guests who celebrated the day at their beloved club. Sail Past and Salute, many dressing up in an effort to win the best dressed crew and
Commodore Ian Audsley reminded all present that they are "truly blessed to be here, boat prizes. Then it was off and racing in the Pittwater Dash. All eight of the club's
in the best country in the world, looking out at the best part of the best country in new training fleet of Elliott 7s were out on the water racing and crewed by those in
the world and standing in front of one of the truly great yacht clubs in the world " the club's highly regarded Youth Development Program of which America's Cup
and informed all present of what lays ahead in the coming sailing season including winning skipper James (Jimmy) Spithill as well as Olympic Medallist Nina Curtis
an inaugural week which will see over 500 sailors participating in the various activities. and other World Class sailors are graduates of.
He went on to say that the season will only build from there as the club twilight
racing begins next month along with over 500 children participating week in week
out in the Schools and Junior and Youth sailing programs . The Speaker of the House
and Federal Member for Mackellar, the Honourable Bronwyn Bishop welcomed all
and acknowledged the important place the club has in the community, particularly
with respect to the support and integration those with disabilities. These comments
were echoed by the Deputy Major Kylie Fergusson who also acknowledged the part
the club plays in promoting healthy lifestyles for the local residents.
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The
The Alfred’s
Alfreds Yachtsman
Yachtsman

It was then back to the clubhouse where staff braved the weather, the members
dried out and all enjoyed a gourmet BBQ, live music and the day's presentation.
If this is how they do it in the wet, it looks like the Alfred's members are in for a
great sailing season!
All boat owners and crew are invited to sail with the RPAYC, contact the Sailing Office
02 9998 3700 or visit the club’s website for more details on the annual programs
www.rpayc.com.au