THE chilling late winter weather didn’t stop the New England Sailing Club’s annual presentations and barbecue at Malpas Dam recently.
New England Sailing Club’s patron Armidale Dumaresq mayor Jim Maher handed out the trophies on the day.
“I am delighted to congratulate New England’s sailors for a full season of competitive racing,” Cr Maher said.
“There are some very capable helms and crews who round their marks most Sunday’s during the season. On windy days it’s an exciting spectacle.
“In addition to carrying out my official duties, it was a chance for me to get away with my family and enjoy a lovely picnic on the grassy banks of the dam. We are so lucky to have such a picturesque facility fully equipped for sailors, rowers, paddlers and fishers alike.”
After some model sailing boat racing down on the pontoon, awards and certificates were handed out in front of a congratulatory crowd outside the clubhouse.
At the end of the ceremony, club secretary Ken McDonald handed out the calendar for the coming sailing season which kicks off on 8 September with the Frostbite Trophy Heat 1 and runs through to 18 May next year.
“Though the established members race on most Sundays, the club welcomes interested sailors and learners to come along at lunchtime when boats will still be afloat and available for cruising around the dam,” Mr McDonald said.
“More and more we are helping those interested in sailing to learn the basics on a small boat and club members are especially pleased to share this great sport with others.”
The New England Sailing Club is located at Malpas Dam. Entry is on the opposite side to the BP Black Mountain Roadhouse on the New England Highway just south of Guyra. Those interested can call Ken McDonald on 6772 5524 to check on events and conditions during the season, or find the New England Sailing Club on Facebook.
Presentations
Frostbite Trophy: 1st Bruce Floyd, 2nd Ken McDonald, 3rd Chris Wilford.
Spring Plate: 1st Paul Reader, 2nd Gordon Youman, 3rd Ken McDonald.
Autumn Trophy: 1st Ken McDonald, 2nd Bruce Floyd, 3rd Gordon Youman.
Black Mountain Nursery Trophy: 1st Chris Wilford, 2nd Gordon Youman, 3rd Bruce Floyd.
Club Championship: 1st Chris Wilford, 2nd Ken McDonald, 3rd Paul Reader.
