03 October 2024
A week before the start of its 15th annual Sail Paradise Regatta, Southport Yacht Club was recognised as “Club of the Year” at the Australian Sailing State Awards for its impressive array of services to the sport of sailing and its members, youth sailing programs and outstanding major events.
“The focus for SYC has been on retention, streamlining and ensuring what the Club is offering fits the needs of the Members. Online systems were improved for ease of sourcing information, bookings and payments, a review of courses and sailing options was completed, training Youth and providing crewing options, and recognising volunteers and putting upskilling programs in place,” said Australian Sailing.
The Club has hosted over 560 Club races this year alone, along with training in excess of 10,000 school students, squad training, Open Days and Discover Sailing Days, corporate sailing events, and SheSails programs.
Out of 150+ Discover Sailing centres across Australia, SYC is by far the largest, having tutored 10 percent of all participants and has grown to over 1,110 more participants then the second largest club in Australia. Partnerships with over 25 schools in Southeast Queensland has also provided traineeships and pathways for school graduates into the Gold Coast’s growing marine industry.
SYC Commodore Glenn Burrell said “To win the Australian Sailing Queensland Club of the Year is recognition for all facets of our Club.
“Everyone at Southport Yacht Club contributes to our success. We have some amazing members and supporters who give up their time to volunteer with running events, joining committees and fund raising by our Associates.”
“Congratulations to the SYC Board, Management, Staff, Volunteers, Members and Supporters on a stella year. We are excited about the growth of sailing in Queensland as well as our own growth at Southport Yacht Club,” added Commodore Burrell.