The Classic Yacht Association of Australia on Monday (25th) held its Annual General Meeting.
Outgoing President Cameron Dorrough outlined the association’s achievements of the last 12 months which included the development of a strategic plan in February which aimed to establish the aims and strategies for the association to sustain and increase the number of members and to provide tangible benefits to members in the future.
Another achievement has been to refine the model for the organisation of the association’s premier event, the annual Cup Regatta. The relationship developed with the event organiser, Southern Wooden Boat Sailing, has seen a number of new initiatives which have breathed new life into this event and will hopefully see continual improvements in competitor numbers and increased promotional opportunities for the association.
President (elect) Craig Brown, gave a brief run-down on the conduct of the Cup Regatta and highlighted the new trophies and funding made available through the generosity of the Joe White Bequest, and what this funding will mean into the future.
We said goodbye to a number of committee members who have given valuable service to the association over the last 12 months. These included the outgoing President, Cameron Dorrough, Treasurer Jennie Mckenzie, and long serving members Peter Costolloe and Damian Purcell. The latter two have been on the committee for in excess of 20 years and their contribution to the association and its activities cannot be overstated. Peter has been the lifeblood of the association and his energy and willingness to assist in all facets of the associations activities has been immense. Damian has been on the committee since the early days and has been there through the heady days of growth and the difficulties we, like many other bodies, are now facing to stay relevant. He has accepted a pay cut and will be moving on to the lesser role of Commodore of the Royal Yacht Club of Victoria and will provide a valuable conduit between the association and one of our premier clubs. Thank you all for your service.
In their place we have welcomed new committee members, Richard Gates (Treasurer), Phillip Brown, George Low and George Fischer. Congratulations!