Newsletter - September 2023
GHYC Commodore's Logbook September 2023 From the Commodore's desk. The one constant in life is the need to change and adapt to what we see happening around us, in all aspects. There is noticeable pressure on many not-for-profit organisations to find ways to create a new future for their clubs that no longer relies solely on the good will of its members. Sadly, we are seeing local organisations and businesses struggling to achieve ongoing viability and financial security. GHYC must take notice and evolve into a sustainable business to ensure the longevity and prosperity of the club. As a yacht club, I believe options to achieve this should be in keeping with the nature of the club, i.e. sailing, boating and community involvement. A key passion for many members has been encouraging people to have the opportunity to experience sailing and so developing a Learn to Sail (LTS) programme is one that could be supported, if the right model can be adopted - a model that would grow a commercially sustainable business that will invigorate the club, grow membership, lift our community profile, and limit exposure to risk. I am pleased to announce that Great Escapes Bay of Islands will shortly be opening a branch in Gulf Harbour, based in Fairway Bay and initially offering 2 Noelex 25's for both Learn to Sail and basic yacht charter. In addition, Great Escape Gulf Harbour is calling for expressions of interest for 6 part time instructors to be trained as paid Yachting NZ Keel boat coaches. (call me for these details) All details are on their website www.greatescape.co.nz As our spring days warm to a fabulous summer, lets get out there and enjoy what's on our doorstep. See you out there! Phil Shaw Commodore GHYC | ||
| ||
| ||
Summer Series After a spring break for R &R and maintenance, our summer sailing season kicks off on Wednesday 18th October with the 1st race of the Mixed Twilight Series. We are delighted to welcome Four Square Gulf Harbour as sponsors of this series. Then in quick succession we have the first Burnsco Cruising race over Labour weekend followed by our Taylors' Law Ladies Twilight on Wednesday 25th Oct. Notices of race are in preparation and will be posted on the website late September. Note on October 11th there will be a Summer Sailing and Information Evening. Wednesday Twilight Races If you are thinking of taking part in our Twilight Series - our courses always start near the Marina to make it quick to get to the start line after work. Nothing like a keen twilight race followed by burgers/fish and chips, (or a healthy salad) in good company at the clubrooms post race! Closure of Hardstands There has been a lot of publicity about closure of hardstands within Auckland, mainly at the city end where haul-out areas care is being forfeited to other interests. https://akhaveyoursay.aucklandcouncil.govt.nz/thelanding2023 Problems is that when facilities are closed, they are gone forever, and our boating fraternity has to haul out somewhere and that increases the demand upon on the remaining facilities thus the price of haul outs goes up. Whenever you get the opportunity to comment on proposed closures of haul outs - please do. It may not be our hardstands closing but inevitably closures elsewhere will put pressure on our local facilities especially during peak periods. Sailing Committee | ||
SOCIAL SCENE NEWS | ||
| ||
Always popular in Winter are Speaker Evenings and this year we had some really engaging presentations including Creative Thinking by Kerry Spackman, Marine Biosecurity and protecting our beautiful Hauraki Gulf, How to stay safe when your GPS doesn't work, Dr Chris Benton and Our Place in the Universe and Stephen & Paula from the Riverhead Tavern. One of the club's Strategic Goals is to be an active participant within the community and this winter the community came to us in large numbers when we opened our doors to public meetings about the proposed withdrawal of the Gulf Harbour Ferry Service and also the future of the recently closed Country Club. Now it's time to look ahead and the months leading up to Christmas are always busy so please put these dates in your diary so you don't get double booked: The next Quiz Night is on Friday 22 September. Book online now and when booking for a group please make sure to let the office have a list of who you are booking for. The club is supporting the Prostate Cancer Foundation throughout 'Blue September' so wear something blue and you might just win a prize! Saturday 7 October Season Opening Dinner Sunday 8 October Boat Bits and Car Boot Sale and EVERYONE is welcome. Another chance to sell unwanted 'stuff', enjoy coffee & a bacon buttie or browse the items on sale. The club will have a stall fundraising to support the club and 'Breast Cancer Awareness Month' and we have limited space to accept suitable donations for this stall. Contact Gill, Beryl or Diane for more info. Friday 27 October Whangaparaoa College Music Night. Back by popular demand, be entertained by the very talented students in the Big Band, Jazz Combo and Rock Band. Sunday 29 October (provisional) Fun Golf Day. Friday 3 November Gumboot Friday Saturday 11 November Boat Hop Friday 15 December Christmas Dinner Dance | ||
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * If any of you know of anybody (grand-children, neighbours, friends) looking for part-time work, we are seeking a: PART-TIME KITCHEN HAND - Wednesday & Friday evenings and occasional weekend work Email admin@ghyc.co.nz Also, we are still seeking a volunteer Venue Hire Co-Ordinator |
Last updated 09:19 on 20 February 2024
