Last Saturday, the Royal Geelong Yacht Club came alive for the grand finale of our Royal Warrant Centenary Celebration—and what a celebration it was! Blessed with perfect spring weather, the Club was a hive of activity as an estimated 1,500 people passed through the venue throughout the day, enjoying a lively and festive atmosphere.
The event had something for everyone. Adults relaxed on the Clubhouse lawn, soaking up the sun with food, drinks, and music, while children delighted in roving entertainment that included acrobats, face painters, and balloon makers. The stage, set up on the lawn, served as the centrepiece of the day, featuring a rotating lineup of live music acts and hosting our formalities at 11 AM.
Commodore Paul Buchholz led the official proceedings, accompanied by two VIP guest speakers. Acting Prime Minister Richard Marles, a highlight of the day, delivered a speech that reflected his deep appreciation for the Club’s history, including the Royal Warrant and ensigns, and emphasised the Club’s role within the local community. Long-time friend of the Club, MP Christine Couzens, followed with her own words of celebration.
Pictured: Acting Prime Minister Richard Marles delivering a standout speech.
In a poignant conclusion to the formalities, Commodore Buchholz sealed a time capsule that will be buried within the new Sailing Centre and reopened in 50 years. Surrounded by young cadets, Buchholz carefully placed various artefacts inside, including this year’s edition of The Corinthian. It was a symbolic moment, highlighting the Club’s dedication to fostering the next generation, with the hope that future cadets will add their own memories when the capsule is reopened in half a century.
Pictured: Commodore Paul Buchholz sealing the time capsule with RGYC cadets.
Excitement soared—literally—with a vintage RAAF ‘Winjeel’ flyover that thrilled spectators and marked the end of the formalities. Following the speeches, Immediate Past Commodore Roger Bennett guided a hard hat tour of the new Sailing Centre, offering the acting PM a sneak peek into the future of the Club.
The Royal Navy Jazz Band added the perfect musical touch, filling the Club with lively melodies that enhanced the festive mood and honoured our Royal milestone. A special thank you goes to our Social Committee and Board Members —Fiona Tremaine, Steph McDonald, Melinda Troeth, Phil Heath, and Alison Goodfellow—who managed the RGYC Information Booth, welcoming new members on the spot.
Pictured: Royal Navy Jazz Band.
The Royal Warrant Centenary Celebration marked a fitting conclusion to an extraordinary month of festivities, showcasing our Club’s rich heritage and vital connection to the community. With vibrant energy onshore and competitive sailing on the water, it was truly a day to remember, capping off 100 years of Royal status with pride and excitement for the future.
Check out more photos from the day below.
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