General Manager Brett James
We are all too aware that over the past few months the world has changed dramatically, and it will continue to change for some time yet. When the Coronavirus pandemic first impacted the SYC I couldn’t appreciate the magnitude of the task we would face – first closing down the Club then coordinating the reopening. I can’t deny there was a feeling of panic in the air when we were advised that the Club must shutdown – we had to turn our focus from creating a place for the enjoyment of members to being a “no-go” destination for members and staff. It was a massive task. The challenges were many, our priority being to make sure that both members and staff were OK. Simultaneously, the SYC Board had to ensure the Club’s finances were well protected and that any members or staff in need of support received it. I’m pleased to say I’m confident all goals were achieved. It goes without saying that we are lucky that we have a marina that generates cash flow
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for the Club. This fact also reminds us of the likely benefits that will come the Club’s way once the Superyacht berth is built. I have no doubt it will secure the Club’s future. We also turned the shutdown into a positive – we took the opportunity to refurbish some parts of the Club’s facilities: these projects included Main Beach being repainted, the outside deck being oiled and the shade sails cleaned while both Hollywell and Oxenford have also received a fresh coat of paint. On the dining front, our popular Chef and his staff have created a new set menu that looks great. This menu will change daily, so members are provided with a wide variety of dining opportunities. These are just a few of the things we have done during the shutdown, which are designed for the long term benefit of members. I’m also pleased to say there are many other changes that members will appreciate after we reopen and return to being fully operational. It should be noted that we will no doubt face challenges until that time, so I can only
- Winter edition 2020
ask that members appreciate the efforts that are being made in their interests. On the sailing side of things, we still don’t have a date for the resumption of sailing activities, but as soon as we hear, you will. Commodore Ray McMahon and Vice Commodore Drew Jones are at the Club nearly every day, doing what they can to get everyone back on the water ASAP. Interestingly, there is one SYC sailing championship that has been won without being on the water. We congratulate Joel Turner for winning the SYC e-Sailing Club Championship. He will now progress to the Queensland Championship and could advance all the way to the World Championship. On a personal note, I have to say that I feel fortunate to work at Southport Yacht Club. It is no different for the staff. We are all looking forward to welcoming members back to their Club very soon.
Brett James General Manager