Guests at the launch of the 140th Sailing Season at RQYS. Photos: Supplied.
CONTRIBUTED BY SIMONE HASKER, ROYAL QUEENSLAND YACHT SQUADRON
The Royal Queensland Yacht Squadron (RQYS) had an incredible night at the 2024 Queensland Sailing Awards, held on the Gold Coast and hosted by Australian Sailing. With 14 finalists from the club and five taking out an award, RQYS made a significant impact and continued to show its strength in the sailing community.
The strong representation at this prestigious event is a testament to the hard work and dedication of its members, as well as the support of its staff and volunteers. The club boasted finalists across 14 categories including Youth, Female and Male Sailor of the Year; Team, Instructor and Coach of the Year to Professional, Sport Promotion and Official of the Year. Although the club narrowly missed out on 2024 Club of the Year, all were thrilled to congratulate life member Noel Paterson on his win in the coveted Lifetime Achievement Award category.
Besides Noel’s sailing achievements, he has significantly contributed to the Queensland Racing Rules and Appeals Committee. He initiated the learn-to-sail program at RQYS, now known as the club’s Sailing Academy, and has served on several committees. Noel’s outstanding commitment to the club has earned him the club Member of the Year award and Life Membership. A true leader, Noel’s unwavering dedication to sailing is inspirational.
The success achieved at the 2024 Queensland Sailing Awards is a reflection of the passion and commitment of everyone involved with the Royal Queensland Yacht Squadron.
In other news, RQYS was showing off in all its glory at the launch of the 140th Sailing Season on 7 September. RQYS welcomed over 350 members, guests and visitors for a magical day in the newly renovated bistro, boardwalk and lawns.
Patron Professor Graeme Nimmo RFD attended to present certificates to this year’s recipients of the John Harrison Olympic Sailing Foundation funding support, and also to welcome for the first time Commodore Stephanie Moles from the Royal Australian Navy. Their arrival at the grounds was heralded by the spectacular bagpipes and drums of the Emmanuel College Highlanders and VIP attendees including Rear Commodore Todd Anderson and Flag Officers.
Over 70 boats took part in the annual “sail past” after the official ceremony and blessing of the fleet. Always a favourite part of the day, the boats were once again decorated in full colour and some fancy dress costumes to boot, entertaining the crowd on the boardwalk.
The party continued late into the day with a Tiki Bar overlooking the lawn, seafood stations and live music. The Wyuna Fund raffle raised over $4500 in support of the next generation of RQYS Olympians – many thanks to the generous prize donors and ticket buyers for supporting our local sailors.
