I have previously alerted you to the security issues surrounding the Club and its use, and indeed abuse, by non-members from time to time. In my previous discussions on this matter, as well as in our General Manager’s updates, we indicated that the Committee was putting short term, temporary solutions in place to deal with some of those issues. I also indicated that the Committee was exploring longer term solutions to these matters. In this column I am now addressing the longer term solutions being considered.
Your Committee has considered the options for better security access, as well as a more convenient approach to accessing the services of your Club To that end, we acknowledge that one of the best measures is a card system that serves multiple purposes.
I am sure that at some time you would have experienced a situation where you have entered the Club when the security hut at the entrance of the Club was unmanned. These guards, for valid reasons, have to leave this post from time to time, even if only for short periods, and during these unmanned times access to the Club is available to all and sundry
Access into the Club, from the beach, is also a challenge as this is generally an unsecured area. We have sought to have this area manned by security as well, and we have seen improvements in this surveillance measure for that area.
We have however, noted that a membership card which also acts as an access control card, along with suitable access control mechanisms, can provide better security coverage, particularly when the security guards have moved away from the entrance
The same card can also be used by members to charge their account for the services delivered to them by the Club, in a comparable manner as the use a credit card as payment towards services delivered from a public service provider. In other words, to pay for, say food and beverages, the member swipes his/her membership card and that automatically places their order onto their account for future settlement in the same manner that currently obtains. Receipts will still be issued for the services obtained by the member so that the member can have a method of reconciling their account when the monthly statement is delivered to them for settlement.
We have acknowledged that the infrastructure for our overall vision of the use of the card will be costly, and hence we are planning a phased implementation for this system
Consequently, we are in the process of obtaining pricing for what I will refer to as the first phase of this process, the access control mechanisms This includes traffic arms at the entry and exit of the main entrance, along with the card readers for these points. Once we are in a position to secure these items, all members will be able to enter using their membership cards to activate these traffic arms.
We will keep you updated as we progress through the process so that you are properly informed. We do note that it will require proper communication and we intend to keep the communication channels open with you, our valued members
On the topic of changes, we have acquired some pickleball accessories that will be able to expand our pickleball offerings at the Club We are currently discussing the logistics with all stakeholders and I hope to have more information for you soon.
I have said quite a lot and so, I will close but not before acknowledging the passing of one of our members, the Honourable Christopher Gibbs. Mr. Gibbs was one of the founding members of the iconic Barbadian group, The Merrymen who we honoured at the first event in our centenary celebrations last year. We extend sincerest condolences to his family and friends during this, their time of bereavement.
Peter Thompson Your Commodore
Raising the Bar – Together
First and foremost, from my committee and I, thank you to everyone who took the time to complete our recent Food & Beverage survey. Over 200 members shared their thoughts, some short and sweet, others passionate and detailed. Each response has been read, discussed, and appreciated. It’s clear from what you told us that the Club holds a special place in your lives, and that the food and service we offer are a meaningful part of your overall experience.
What stood out most was the genuine care behind your comments. You weren’t just giving feedback; you were helping us shape the future of dining at the Yacht Club. Whether you come for a quick lunch, drinks with friends, or a relaxed beachside dinner, we heard your message loud and clear Members want consistency, quality, and a little more variety, without losing the casual charm we all know and love
Let’s take a moment to dig into what was said
It was great to hear that the staff’s warmth and friendliness continue to be one of our greatest strengths That’s something we’re incredibly proud of and deeply committed to preserving You also made it clear that while the menu has its highlights, it’s ready for a bit of a refresh There’s a strong desire for lighter, healthier options, some heartier comfort foods, and the occasional special evening to add a little excitement to the calendar.
Speed of service came up often too, particularly at lunchtime. We know that nobody wants to wait too long for a simple cutter or salad, and we’re actively working on better systems and staffing to get meals out more efficiently, especially during peak times
When it comes to drinks, we’ve heard you! Colder is better, and we’re making some behind-the-scenes tweaks to ensure that your beers, wines, and cocktails arrive as refreshing as they should be, especially when enjoying a sunny day on the beach
As for the menu, our kitchen team is already looking at how to bring in a few new dishes while fine-tuning the favourites. You can expect in the future to see some light, fresh meals alongside the classics plus a few surprises here and there. We’re also planning to introduce occasional themed dinners and specials that offer something a bit different, while keeping the vibe relaxed and familiar.
We won’t overhaul what works, but we will listen, evolve, and aim higher. After all, the Club belongs to all of us, and it should always feel like the place you want to be whether you're grabbing a casual bite after a swim, entertaining guests, or just enjoying a quiet drink by the sea.
As we work towards implementing the suggested changes we will continue to keep you in the loop as changes roll out, and we hope you’ll let us know how we’re doing. If you’re ever keen to share ideas, join a tasting, or just chat food we’re all ears.
Here’s to good meals, great conversations, and many more moments shared together at the Yacht Club. See you at the table!
Best regards,
Simon Parravicino Food and Beverage Sub-Committee Chairman
Harris Offshore Memorial Regatta Results
The Harris Offshore Memorial Regatta, sponsored by Harris Paints, was sailed on Sunday, 8 June. The results are as follows: th
1 Paul Johnson and crew on Rapajam st
2 Geoffrey Evelyn and crew on Dandelion nd
3 Greg Webster and crew on Phoenix
Discover Sailing Day
Battling a shore break and fairly strong winds, the Association’s instructors gave the 40 or more participants of all ages a hands-on taste of the thrills of sailing For most it was their first time on a sailboat, and their reactions said it all; from the wide eyes, excited grins and enthusiastic questions to quotes such as “that was amazing”, “best time I’ve had in ages”, “I had a blast” and “I’m hooked”
On Sunday, 15 June, the Barbados Sailing Association, supported by the Yacht Club, hosted a Discover Sailing Day at the Club. The event offered a wonderful opportunity to introduce newcomers to the joys of sailing and to showcase the sport to the wider community, as members of the Association, its Board of Directors and many of its junior instructors set out to share their passion for their sport with all who joined in.
Congratulations on hosting such an outstanding "Discover Sailing" event What was impressive was the community response, from adults to youth, keen to experience sailing. The session was very well organised, with enthusiastic instructors, an efficient registration process and skilled coordination-- especially given the extremely challenging sailing conditions.
Photos By: Anya Decaires
Column By: Anne Tindale
Barbara Trieloff-Deane
We had an enjoyable evening with Alan Sheppard A big thank you to everyone who came out and enjoyed the night!
Next up, we’ll be welcoming Jon Ryttersgaard for Last Friday on June 27th. There will be drink specials, so if you're around, come by, relax, and enjoy the evening. It’s the perfect way to unwind and ease into the weekend.
We’ve also got BBQs planned for Canada Day (June 29th) and the 4th of July, with cocktails & drinks specials available throughout the evening. It’s a great opportunity to bring your Canadian and American friends and family and celebrate together at the club.
Looking for something fun for the kids? Join us on Friday, July 11th for our End of Term Party! There’ll be a bouncy tent and plenty of space for the little ones to burn off that summer energy. It will be a great way to kick off the holidays. Paddleboards and kayaks will also be available to rent for those who want to get out on the water Plus, we’ll have specials on food and treats for the kids and drinks specials for the adults to keep everyone happy.
Looking ahead, DJ Trevor Perkins will be joining us for Last Friday on July 26th He’ll be bringing a great mix of tunes to set the mood for the evening, whether you’re in the mood to dance or just unwind with friends. Drink specials will be available at the bar. It’s a great way to close out the month
On another note, I recently saw a post by a member on Facebook praising two of our staff members. The comments really spoke for themselves. Please continue to show your appreciation for our hardworking staff A kind word and a little courtesy goes a long way
The Entertainment Committee now has its own email: bycentertainmentcomm@gmail.com. Feel free to share any thoughts, suggestions, or feedback on events While we may not be able to respond immediately, all messages will be reviewed and considered.
Paul Kellman Entertainment Committee
Building on the tremendous success of the previous event, the Association proudly supported by the Club will host a special Kids Discover Sailing Day on Saturday, 5th July. Open to children ages 5 to 18, this fun-filled day invites all young adventurers to come and experience the thrill of sailing for the first time
This summer, Sailing Camp continues the momentum, offering children the chance to build confidence, learn new skills, and develop a lifelong love for the sea. With experienced instructors, a fun and safe environment, and hands-on learning, our camps are the perfect way to introduce the next generation to the joys of sailing
Whether they’re hoisting sails or making new friends, it all starts here on the water.
MichaelClarke
It is with heartfelt sadness that we announce the peaceful passing of Mr. Michael Clarke, an honorary and long-standing member of the Barbados Yacht Club, at the age of 98.
Born to Dudley and Margaret Clarke and raised at Graeme Hall Plantation, Michael developed a lifelong love for nature. He attended The Lodge School before pursuing agronomy at McGill University in Canada the foundation for what would become a distinguished career in agriculture
His work took him across the Caribbean, the UK, and back home to Barba contributions to the sugar industry Among his achievements were the dev suited to our local climate and the advancement of modern harvesting tech
Michael shared his life with his beloved wife, Sheila Heath, and their son Neil Sheila was his steadfast partner, especially in supporting him as he lived courageously with type 1 diabetes
In retirement, Michael found joy and community at the Barbados Yacht Club. Whether fishing off the dock, hauling pots, or spending time on Anastasia with friends, his love for the sea was as deep as his connection to the land. His fondness for the Club’s famous fish cakes and his lighthearted protest about having to buy six when he only wanted four became part of his enduring charm.
Michael had a remarkable gift for gardening, especially hibiscus breeding, and delighted his grandchildren and great-grandchildren with his wit, wisdom, and gentle spirit.
He will be remembered as a brilliant, kind-hearted gentleman who lived life to the fullest and whose legacy is one of curiosity, connection, and warmth.
On behalf of his family, we extend sincere thanks to the Club’s staff for the many years of kind service and support he received.
He will be deeply missed by all who had the pleasure of knowing him.
