CONTRIBUTED BY WYNNUM MANLY YACHT CLUB
This year has been a standout year for the Wynnum Manly Yacht Club, marked by major upgrades, vibrant community engagement, and milestone sailing events.
A long-awaited improvement is underway with the replacement of the demountable administration and sailing office, installed over 20 years ago, with a purpose-built extension. This new facility is set to open early in 2026, enhancing the club’s operations and appearance.
The Captain’s Parrot Café continues to thrive, drawing locals and visitors to the waterfront and adding a lively social atmosphere to the precinct.
A major highlight of 2025 was the 50th Ratu Rum Saint Helena Cup, a two-day regatta that saw more boats participating than any year in the past two decades. With 110 boats and over 350 sailors, the event was a spectacular celebration of sailing and teamwork, reinforcing the club’s reputation as a premier host on Moreton Bay.
Other events, including the Lady Skippers Race, also saw growing participation, reflecting the club’s commitment to inclusive and engaging sailing experiences.
The marina and slipway remain vital assets, with professional facilities supporting both classic cruisers and modern yachts.
This year also saw a leadership change, with Sharon Boyle stepping down as Commodore after three years of dedicated service. Her key achievement was securing a new lease with the Queensland Department of Transport, ensuring the club’s future in Manly Harbour until 2053. John Vandermaat was elected to the Commodore role, bringing experience and continuity to the club.
With strong momentum and exciting developments ahead, the club looks forward to an even bigger 2026.
