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The Carabella Room was overflowing with Members and guests to celebrate the 2023-24 Sailing Season with a presentation of the Club's finest trophies.

Captain Michael Lindsay reviewed the season and spoke of the General Committee's commitment to nurturing sailors of all ages. It will not only continue to provide the best and safest racing but also developed the Sailing Academy to offer learning and development opportunities for everyone, from beginners to adults. 

Commodore Christian Brook presented the following awards:



YACHTSMAN OF THE YEAR
Idris Cup to James Mayo and Richard Allanson (joint recipients)

James and Richie have set a new benchmark in the International Etchells Class. Their journey through the 2023-2024 season has been spectacular, with notable achievements including 1st place at the following events:

Gold Coast Championship in Southport
Australasian Championship in Mooloolabah
October Mini Regatta at the Squadron
Australian Championship
Milson Silver Goblets.

Their crowning achievements were at the Royal Freshwater Bay Yacht Club in Western Australia, where they won the State Championship, Bill Steele Pre-worlds Regatta, Etchells Worlds, emerging victorious against 40 competitors, including World Champions and Olympians.

Their success underscores exceptional planning, determination, and sailing skills. Beyond their technical prowess, they have demonstrated humility and generosity, embodying true sportsmanship.



YACHTSWOMAN OF THE YEAR
Joanne Trophy to Brooke Wilson

Brooke began sailing at age 8 with the Optimists, later transitioning to the Laser 4.7 and becoming a key part of the RSYS Youth Sailing program.

By 2017, she earned her place on the NSW Youth Sailing Team, sailing the ILCA (formerly Lasers). In 2019, she joined the NSW Institute of Sport Elite Training Partners Squad.

Her dedication to sailing has been rewarded with impressive results at home and on the International stage. They include:

1st place in the CYCA John Messenger Women’s Match Racing Regatta
25th place in the ILCA European Championships U21, Norway
6th place in the Women’s World Match Racing Tour
1st place in the Harken International Youth Match Racing Championship RPAYC
4th place in Sail Sydney
1st place in the Oceania & Australian ILCA Open & Youth Championships
1st place in the Farr 40 Australian Championship on Outlaw

Brooke is hardworking, tenacious, smart, tactical and fast. As a person, Brooke is kind, humble and cheerleader to everyone in her squad. This award is a testament to her passion for the sport, her support of others and her recognition as one of the rising stars in the sailing world.




YOUTH SAILOR OF THE YEAR
John Thomas Batty Trophy to Max Paul

The John Thomas Batty Trophy for Youth Sailor of the Year is awarded to an under-25 sailor who demonstrates remarkable results, dedication, sportsmanship, and a commitment to youth sailing development at our Club.

Max exemplifies these qualities. He has shown extraordinary dedication to the RSYS youth sailing program, making young sailors feel welcome and supported. His generosity with his time and knowledge from his extensive match racing and Olympic 49er campaign has significantly impacted our community. He is a current member of the Australian Sailing Squad and stands 2nd in the World 49er rankings.

His impressive achievements in 2023 and 2024 include:

9th at the Allianz Regatta / World Cup Series
26th at the 49er European Championships
3rd at the NSW Youth Match Racing Championship
3rd at Sail Sydney, a Qualifier for the 2024 Olympic Games
22nd at the 49er World Championships
6th at the Trofeo S.A.R Princesa Sofia / World Cup Series



FLAG OFFICERS’ CREWPERSON OF THE YEAR
Carabella Tray to Jonathan McCray

Jonathan’s versatility and dedication to sailing are evident through his participation in various twilight, mixed division and J/70 regattas, and a key contributor to the Tuesday Twilight Division 2 winning boat.

Beyond his on-water achievements, he supports women's racing and contributes to the Club's safety and usability for all members. He is the only male on the Ladies of the Sea Coaching Regatta organizing committee and volunteers extensively for other events throughout the year, demonstrating his commitment to the sailing community.



SPORTSPERSON OF THE YEAR AWARD
Ruth McCance Memorial Trophy to Eric Duggin

Eric developed a lifelong passion for sailing from childhood, navigating various yachts and participating in numerous Sydney to Hobart races. He is a seasoned sailor, mentor, and indispensable crew member known for his dedication to fair play and sportsmanship.

Beyond racing, Eric actively engages in club activities, sharing his extensive knowledge and experience. Eric is widely respected by sailors of all genders for his adherence to the Racing Rules of Sailing and his fair treatment of competitors.

He contributes as a crew member, advisor on boat repairs and maintenance, and coach to new skippers and inexperienced crew. As a volunteer Race Official, he serves on the committee boat and assists with boat maintenance tasks.




The Captain acknowledged our volunteers who give their time so generously, to ensure the successful running of our Squadron racing program.

See the full list of awards here.

Photos by Darcie Collington