LAST Sunday the Port Stephens Yacht Club held its annual Club Presentation Luncheon at the clubhouse in Soldiers Point.

Ports sailors young and not so young turned out to the clubhouse to celebrate the year’s sailing successes.
It was a gorgeous Port Stephens afternoon, warm sunshine, a lovely lunch catered by Amanda Douglas, culminating in a ‘to be expected’ spectacular glowing sunset over the Bay.

The event was attended by 75 yacht racing members, friends and family.

Over 30 awards were presented in recognition of racing prowess, cruising adventures, service to the Club and included a couple of tongue in cheek awards for mis-adventure as well.

The club members race on a regular basis and some also participate in major events like Sail Port Stephens.

A new Club Champion, skipper Peter Ballard (who owns yacht Solanda) was crowned for his hard work and consistency, the culmination of many years of effort.

Others honoured included Barney Pinney (Trivial Persuit), Coastal Cruising Award; Allen Atkins (Rival), Hood Trophy; John Townsend and Ian Courtney (Young Pretender), Winter Point score 2016; David Ramsay (Thief of Time), Ross Kelly (Good Life II), Spring Point score 2016; Summer Point score 2017 and Peter Chappelow (Distant Drums), Christmas Series 2016.

Vice Commodore told News Of The Area, “This past sailing season has been great fun; lot’s of keen but sportsmanlike racing, weather of every description, and of course, plenty of ‘animosity’ at the Club after every event! Come on down!” he said.
The community can get involved in the Port Stephens Yacht Clubs activities.

You can find out more at www.portstephensyachtclub.squarespace.com.

 

By Marian SAMPSON