A big thank you to everyone who attended our changeover on Tuesday, including DG elect Raj Chand and his partner Nitika. It was a great send-off for past presidents Warwick and John. Our speaker Murray Thom treated us to a lively address as always encouraging us to make the most of opportunities that come our way as well as those inspirational ideas that pop into our heads. Courtney Pratt-Young gave a thoughtful and heartfelt thank you, reflecting on Murray’s legendary input into a long string of RYLA events.
On that note a huge thank you to everyone who assisted with running the recent RYLA event.
Henry Thomas-Kircher, leader of the volunteers at RYLA, showed us a video of Peter Ross being awarded a PHF for his tireless work with RYLA and his role as chair of the District Youth committee.
Warwick presented a PHF to Colin Lucas acknowledging his unstinting work producing Rapport, advising the club on legal issues and for his voluntary and extensive input to the sailing community, particularly racing officiating for RNZYS.
The theme for the evening was Matariki, and it was a star filled night as each member of the outgoing Club Officers was awarded a sparkling star, then it was my turn to be presented with the chains of office (the two chains are quite heavy so they might not be worn on many occasions during the year). I introduced our new team and our goals for the upcoming year with a focus on younger members, increased contact with our schools, youth programs, medical research and environmental support in the Hauraki Gulf.
Also a big thank you to our partners Penny, Nicole and Rosie for their fun star themed decorations for the evening and to Penny particularly for organising the catering.
Thank you to Rosie in anticipation of all the help to come during my year and for your continuing work with ROMAC.
Please join us for our next meeting on 21st July, a breakfast meeting to introduce our new District Governor Joyti Sing and acquaint her with our expanding REP and RAP programs. All those who haven’t yet attended a breakfast meeting should make a big effort to get there.