Masthead - August 2010

SEPTEMBER 2010 NEWS

We were delighted at the response and turnout at the seasons opening cruise where 18 boats and crew sailed past the Commodore and then on to a really fun braai at Dukuduku. We want to arrange more of these social events and suggestions have been made for an evening cruise and raft up, a theme day accompanied by a themed meal, so please let us have your suggestions as to what YOU and YOUR FAMILY would like to do. We want to put the emphasis this year on family and social activities as well as the racing side.

We are also very pleased to welcome back Debbie and family to the club as the official caterer and who will be at the club on every race and event day. Already we are seeing the benefits of having a good caterer in the Galley again so please support her. The other very good news is that we now have our Club Liquor Licence and the bar will also be open on these occasions. Debbie has also been appointed as the Club Manager for the Pub and will in future be running this. We as a committee have decided that it is now time to get rid of some of the old equipment and have already replaced the old stainless steel fridge, are going to replace the sink area, will ultimately look at new cookers and will be bringing back a lounge suite next to the fireplace, where family and guests can relax. The bar fridges have also been serviced and the fans replaced which means that we will have cold beers and cold drinks again…come and experience the new “vibe” at the club.

As part of our expansion into the social and sailing side, Alan Barr has organised a “Cat” regatta for the long weekend and it appears that we have keen interest for this event, so pop out and support them even if only for a picnic or drink.

The first Partington Plate of the season brought out a record number of boats for this event from dinghies to cruisers and was an event enjoyed by all. It was wonderful to see again the members enjoying a drink and chat afterwards on the veranda, while watching the spectacular sunset. Pop out and enjoy the atmosphere with us on the next race day.

Due to popular demand, we are currently looking at widening the car park slipway by some 2 metres to make it easier to launch and particularly for the bigger boats. The intention will be to carry the line down from the edge of the car park on the jetty side as far as we are able with the rapidly retreating water level. We will also paint new alignment lines on either side of the expanded slipway and down the centre line. Thanks to the endeavours of our bosun, Clive, there are now steps on either side of the wooden jetty down to water level.

Please will all members diarise that fact that the Midmar Mile will take place over the weekend of the 11th to 14th February 2011 and as usual we have hired the club and all of its facilities to the Germiston Swim Club and consequently the grounds of the club will be out-of- bounds to members. Whilst we regret that this will happen, this event brings in much needed funds for the club.

We will be reintroducing the Visitors Book and we would ask that all members bringing guests to the club take the time to sign them in and if possible, introduce them to the Commodore and/or some of the committee so that we can make them feel welcome.

We will be sending out the MASTHEAD every month to keep our members right up to date with developments at the club.

We are also looking for members with any particular skills to please come forward and let us know.

HAPPY SAILING AND FAIR WINDS