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After our Sydney Fleet meetings and AGM, the Committee is bringing changes to the upcoming 2024/25 season to encourage participation and make it easier for those interested to try sailing an Etchells as part of the Sydney Fleet.

New for 2024/25 Season

Trailers/Hardstand
The RSYS Waterfront Committee has approved the storage of boats on trailers. The Sydney Fleet has also invested in helping provide the RSYS with an electric dolly to move boats around on the hardstand.

New Calendar
Is posted on the RSYS website https://www.rsys.com.au/calendar

Now with four sub series’, each with a separate trophy. They will encompass the overall Mini Regattas and Club Championship.

Mini Regattas will now be 2 longer races (previously 3 shorter races). More Corinthian trophies are being finalised for the new sub series’.

Charter of Etchells
We plan to have two boats available for Charter by the start of the season. Wobbegong is being sold. The plan is to replace her quickly. The funds to ensure the replacement boat and 925 are up to scratch and ready.

The deal for those interested:

• $1,100 cost for use of an Etchells for a sub series. Longer charter options available through the Committee.
• Includes everything (except a VHF radio); Insurance (with agreed excess), Vakaros Compass, Boat Set up tutoring with a leading Etchells sailor, training and coaching via planned Sydney Fleet sessions.
• RSYS Youth members can apply for a discounted rate.
• Must join the Sydney Etchells Fleet as Associate members.

Vakaros Race Sense
This will be used by the RSYS for all Etchells races. It will provide many advantages for competitors and the Race Committee. This system was used at the past Worlds and will be used for all upcoming sanctioned events this season. The Race Committee requires a Vakaros Race Sense and all boats must have a Vakaros compass/reader on board.

To support Sydney Fleet members who don't already have a Vakaros, the Fleet will purchase them and provide them to Sydney Fleet boats for only $300 on the basis that:

• The boat enters the mini regattas and at least one sub series
• They are insured by the boat/team and replace it if lost/damaged.
• They agree to lend it to the RSYS for other regattas (being sailed outside Etchells races/sanctioned events).

Contact the Sydney Fleet for details.

Other
We are having a Sale/Swap day for Etchells gear and sails on 24 August starting at 10am on the hardstand. We will invite the River Etchells and please spread the word. This was a great success last year.

Coaching days
Please see dates in the calendar, more details to come.

Etchells Trophies
There was much interest at the AGM for what we race for. Details on all major trophies will be outlined throughout the season.
At the end of each sub series, the relevant trophies will be presented at a casual function after racing. Please note the dates.

Looking forward to a big season. The RSYS will host the NSW State Championship 11-13 October 2024.

Cheers,

Michael Stovin-Bradford
Sydney Fleet Captain
Sydney Fleet Committee




Photo by Kylie Wilson