A Message from Your New Commodore, Paul Buchholz

It is with great pride that I step into the role of Commodore of the Royal Geelong Yacht Club, a place that has been close to my heart for 36 years. As a Life Member, I’m eager to give back to the club that has given me so much. In true JFK vernacular: “Ask not what your club can do for you – ask what you can do for your club!” With that spirit, I look forward to working together to achieve great things.

We’re on the brink of completing Stage 2 of our ambitious building project, which includes the much-anticipated new Sailing School / OTB building. I’m thrilled at the prospect of being your Commodore during this momentous occasion. This state-of-the-art facility will not only enhance our club’s reputation but also draw in new members, both young and old. Coupled with the success of our Cadet sailors and the enthusiasm of our younger coaches, the future looks incredibly bright for RGYC.

The introduction of the RS21s has been a fantastic addition, sparking renewed enthusiasm among our members and providing a perfect stepping stone for our junior sailors moving into keelboat racing. These boats are set to play a pivotal role in our sailing programs, from Learn to Sail courses to high-performance racing.

As we look to the future, there’s much to be excited about—from the completion of the new Sailing School / OTB building to ongoing improvements around the club. With the strength of our Board and the collective spirit of our members, I’m confident that we can achieve great things together and continue to grow and thrive as a club.

I’m committed to fostering an inclusive and democratic club where every member’s voice is heard. To this end, I plan to host member forums in the coming year, ensuring that everyone has a chance to contribute to our future.

Lastly, I want to extend my deepest gratitude to past Commodore Roger Bennett for his decade of service. His dedication, from overseeing our sailing programs to navigating the complexities of the new Sailing School / OTB building project, has been invaluable. The RGYC owes him a debt of gratitude, and I wish him smooth seas and fair winds as he enjoys his new adventures on the water.

Thank you, Roger, for your tireless efforts and commitment to our club.

Paul Buchholz
Commodore