RPAYC Recognises Dedication and Spirit at 2025 AGM
Royal Prince Alfred Yacht Club, Newport NSW – Thursday 25 July 2025
The Royal Prince Alfred Yacht Club held its Annual General Meeting on Thursday evening, 25 July 2025, bringing members together to reflect on a successful year and to celebrate outstanding contributions within the Club community.
Commodore Robert McClelland addressed the membership with a speech that celebrated both operational milestones and the extraordinary individuals who embody the Club’s spirit and commitment.
Commodore’s Medal 2025: Chris Links, Anne Simpson & Jan Scholten
A key moment of the evening was the awarding of the Commodore’s Medal to Chris Links, Anne Simpson, and Jan Scholten, in recognition of their extensive and voluntary efforts in preparing the Nexba Review Report. The team was tasked with conducting a comprehensive investigation into a major offshore incident, and their resulting report set a new benchmark for professionalism and safety in yachting.
Over a 9–12 month period, the trio collectively invested up to 500 volunteer hours across areas such as survivor interviews, regulatory research, engineering analysis, and formal report drafting. Their work has already had a wide-reaching impact on offshore safety practices and highlighted RPAYC’s leadership in advancing sailing standards. Commodore McClelland described the report as comparable in structure and detail to formal government safety inquiries — and entirely produced by volunteers.
Clubman of the Year 2025: Peter Farrugia
The evening also celebrated the ever-energetic and community-minded Peter Farrugia, who was named Clubman of the Year 2025. While known for his entertaining antics and dancefloor moves, Pete’s contribution goes far beyond social flair.
As Rear Commodore Racing, Farrugia has helped to reshape the Club’s racing culture, boosting participation, making events more inclusive, and rallying sailors of all experience levels. His leadership on and off the water has helped reinvigorate Club spirit, and his legacy includes not only impressive sailing achievements but also a deep commitment to fun, family, and community.
Elected into Office:
- John Bacon – Director, 3 year term
- Rik Hart – Director, 3 year term
- Phil Burgess – Rear Commodore Membership, 2 year term
- Peter Farrugia – Rear Commodore Yachting, 2 year term
- Mark Dorling – Rear Commodore Centreboard, 1 year term
Looking Ahead
The AGM marked a moment of pride and reflection for RPAYC, as the Club continues to build on its rich heritage while innovating and adapting to the future. As the Commodore remarked, the Club’s strength lies in its people and this year’s honourees are a shining example of the values RPAYC holds dear.
ENDS