What a fantastic day we had for the Royal Prince Alfred Yacht Club’s 157th Opening Day! The energy was palpable, the sun was shining, and the sail past was spectacular, marking the start of the 2024/25 season in perfect style.
The Alfred’s Café coffee cart was a clear favourite, with members and guests enjoying delicious coffee and pastries throughout the day. Everywhere you looked, the club was bursting with vibrant colours, happy faces, and a wonderful sense of community. The Barrenjoey Bar was the go-to spot, setting the stage for what’s sure to be an unforgettable Pittwater Regatta. A special acknowledgement to Murray Glase for his inspiring rendition of the Australian Anthem, which set an excellent tone for the day.
We were also delighted to celebrate some exciting news—congratulations to John Bacon, who has just won the 2024 Int. 5.5m Class World Championship in France! We can’t wait to welcome him home and see that trophy proudly displayed in the clubhouse.
The weather was perfect for the Firing of the Cannon, a highlight moment led by Phil Burgess, our Clubman Award recipient, firing the cannon and Alice Parker, Yachts Person of the Year, breaking the flag. The sail past was an absolute spectacle. While Banter took home the win, every boat shone brightly—Heaven’s Gate, regal as always, and the lively crew aboard Bullwinkle brought plenty of fun. And we can’t forget the Condor crew, filled with eager kids, who sailed their way to victory. Special thanks to Ross Hennessy and our new Rear Commodore Centreboard, Mark Dorling, for leading this energetic group—their enthusiasm was contagious!
Following the sail past, the action moved into the Pittwater Dash, where a growing southeast breeze created the perfect conditions for an exciting downwind spinnaker start.
We were also honoured to have our friends from Hansa and Sailability with us, including long-serving ones like Allan Jones and Chris Mitchell. The upcoming Hansa Charity Race on Friday, 15 November, promises to be a fantastic event, and we’re all looking forward to supporting it.
Back onshore, the BBQ lunch was a crowd-pleaser, and many enjoyed a relaxing afternoon lounging on the lawn’s bean bags. Smiles and laughter filled the air well into the afternoon.
A massive thank you to everyone who made this day so special—from the meticulous planning to the flawless execution, it was a day that genuinely showcased the heart of the RPAYC community—special thanks to our incredible Volunteers and staff for their hard work in making this day a success.
And the best part? The season ahead is filled with exciting on-water adventures and fun social gatherings. Whether you’re a seasoned sailor or new to the club, there’s something for everyone. So, come along, be part of the fun, and help make this a season we’ll never forget!
Robert McClelland
Commodore