There was no better way to cap off the biggest and best sailing season yet than with an equally epic send-off—and that’s exactly what the 2024–25 Yachting and Youth Development Celebration & Awards Presentation Evening delivered! This year’s event transformed the club into a scene straight out of the Wild West, complete with boots, bandanas, and more cowbell than you could shake a lasso at.
From the moment guests arrived, the atmosphere was nothing short of electric. The Annex and Halyards were transformed into a hootenanny haven, adorned with glowing festoon lighting, stacks of hay bales, and rustic country decor that brought a warm, welcoming charm to the entire evening. The crowd—decked out in their finest Western wear—mingled and danced beneath the lights, creating an unforgettable blend of community spirit and celebratory cheer.
A cheeky highlight was the “WANTED” posters featuring our Flag Officers, which had guests grinning and snapping photos all night.
The theme didn’t stop there—line dancing had everyone from juniors to life members up and boot-scootin’ to the beat. The sound of cowbells ringing out with each award announcement added a fun (and loud!) layer of celebration, as every honouree was cheered on with heartfelt enthusiasm.
The evening was also a great celebration of sailing and seamanship, with a formal presentation for series winners and Special Awards recipients. Congratulations to everyone who received an award!
Another meaningful addition to this year’s program was the inaugural Outstanding Crew Person Awards, honouring the individuals who consistently went above and beyond as teammates, contributors, and leaders both on and off the water. Their efforts embody the values of collaboration, resilience, and quiet excellence that make our club culture so special.
Congratulations to our 2024–25 Outstanding Crew Person Award recipients:
- Josh Paulson
- Matthew Smith
- Bayley Taylor
Of course, the night wouldn’t have been the same without the incredible work of our Food & Beverage team. A massive thank you to Chef and her team, Facundo, and the entire F&B service crew, who delivered impeccable service and delicious fare all night long. Their professionalism, warmth, and attention to detail elevated the entire experience and made sure no glass went empty and no belly went hungry.
We also tip our hats to the Sailing Office—whose tireless work throughout the season brought to life an outstanding program of events, training opportunities, and regattas. Their passion and precision are the backbone of our success.
This season’s unforgettable events included:
- Finn NSW Championship
- David Lukins Memorial Match Racing Championship
- 30th Harken International Youth Match Racing Championship
- Manly Juniors NSW Championship
- Magenta Waszp Project Development Program weekend
- ACS Hansa 303 Charity Race
- Alfred’s Community Sailing Gala Dinner
- VxOne NSW/ACT Championship
- VxOne Nationals
- Pantaenius Pittwater Regatta
- Friends of David Booth Memorial Race
- 5.5m Nationals
- 2025 Hansa World and International Championships
- 39th Pittwater to Coffs Harbour Yacht Race
- TP52 Gold Cup
As the night came to a close, reflections were shared, laughter echoed through the sails, and more than a few happy tears were shed. It was clear to all in attendance: this season has been something truly special.
But don’t hang up your lifejackets just yet—because 2025–26 is already shaping up to be one for the books. Bigger races, fresh initiatives, and even more reasons to get involved await. We can’t wait to welcome returning members, new faces, and everyone in between for another season of growth, adventure, and connection.
Here’s a teaser for what’s coming in 2025–26:
- 2nd Sydney to Auckland Ocean Race 2025
- Inaugural Cruising Rally, Sydney to Auckland Ocean Rally 2025
- Pantaenius Pittwater Regatta 2026
- 40th Pittwater to Coffs Harbour Yacht Race 2026
To our members, families, volunteers, coaches, staff, supporters, and especially our young sailors: thank you for bringing your spirit, energy, and passion to everything we do. You are what makes this club a community—and this season a story worth celebrating.
Until next time…
Happy sailing, and see y’all on the water!
**Images from the evening are available on our facebook page – facebook.com/royalprincealfredyachtclub