Royal Queensland Yacht Squadron Archives

Set Sail for Brisbane Race Week 2025: Thrilling Races and Festivities Await

The thrill of the open water returns to Moreton Bay this May as Brisbane Race Week 2025 sets sail for another spectacular showcase of skill, speed, and camaraderie. From 2-7 May, sailors and spectators alike will converge for five days of exhilarating racing and lively celebrations both on and off the water.

Read: Royal Queensland Yacht Squadron Welcomes Over 230 Sailors for Sail Brisbane

Now in its third year, the regatta continues to grow in prestige, attracting a diverse fleet of racing yachts, cruising monohulls, and multihulls.

Photo credit: Brisbane Race Week/Facebook

The event is set against the picturesque backdrop of Moreton Bay, with much of the action centred around Manly, the home of the Royal Queensland Yacht Squadron. As one of the premier sailing events in South East Queensland, Brisbane Race Week fosters a sense of friendly rivalry between regional sailing clubs, each vying for victory in a range of unique and challenging courses.

Committee member and competitor Anton Prange highlights the event’s growing appeal, noting its combination of competitive racing and a vibrant social scene as key reasons for its popularity.

The regatta kicks off in high-energy fashion on Friday, with a Formula-1-style “hot laps” race around Green Island, where crews will compete to complete the most laps in a three-hour window. The excitement continues onshore with an opening fiesta featuring Mexican cuisine and live entertainment at the Royal Queensland Yacht Squadron.

Saturday and Sunday will see crews navigate handcrafted short courses, testing their skill and coordination as they race against the clock. Evening festivities will keep the energy high, with themed celebrations at both the Royal Queensland Yacht Squadron and neighbouring Wynnum Manly Yacht Club. The much-anticipated Texan Night at Wynnum Manly Yacht Club on Sunday reinforces the playful cross-club rivalry, offering a fun-filled evening of food, music, and camaraderie.

Monday’s long passage race provides an opportunity for yachts to stretch their legs against the stunning backdrop of Brisbane and Moreton Island. The day concludes with a community fundraiser—Burgers, Beer, and Bingo—supporting the Making Waves Foundation, which promotes inclusivity in sailing through programs for people with disabilities and disadvantaged youth.

Read: Freedom Boat Club in Manly Joins EcoMarines in Moreton Bay Cleanup Mission

Following a well-earned rest on Labour Day, the final race on Wednesday promises to be the ultimate test of strategy and endurance. The pursuit race, with staggered start times based on handicaps, will be a thrilling spectacle as crews battle to be the first across the finish line. The week culminates with a closing celebration and award presentations at the newly renovated Royal Queensland Yacht Squadron Bistro.

With early bird registration available until 26 April 2025 and daily casual passes for $38, Brisbane Race Week 2025 invites sailors of all backgrounds to take part in an unforgettable week of racing, rivalry, and revelry. For more information and to register, visit brisbaneraceweek.au.

Published 25-March-2025

Royal Queensland Yacht Squadron Welcomes Over 230 Sailors for Sail Brisbane

As summer reaches its peak, the waters off Moreton Bay have been transformed into a vibrant stage for sailing excellence with the commencement of Sail Brisbane 2024. This prestigious regatta, co-hosted by Manly’s Royal Queensland Yacht Squadron and Australian Sailing, has drawn over 230 sailors this week, solidifying its position as one of the most significant events on Australia’s sailing calendar.

Read: Former Manly Hospital Site to Become Health and Wellbeing Precinct

A unique blend of youth and experience at Royal Queensland Yacht Squadron

Reflecting sailing’s inclusive spirit, Sail Brisbane has united an extraordinary range of competitors. The boat park at Royal Queensland Yacht Squadron is alive with activity, as seven-year-old novices prepare their dinghies alongside seasoned Olympians. This dynamic environment fosters unique opportunities for mentorship, inspiration, and a shared passion for the sport.

Championship racing across multiple disciplines

Running from 17 to 21 December, the regatta features four distinct racing courses spread across Moreton Bay’s pristine waters. The Alpha course is home to the high-performance classes, including the 49er and 49er FX, while the Bravo course hosts traditional single-handed classes such as Finn and ILCA. On the Charlie course, junior sailors in Flying 11s and Optimists compete, while the Delta course showcases cutting-edge foiling vessels that push the boundaries of sailing technology.

Inspiring the next generation of sailors

Sail Brisbane plays a vital role in fostering the next generation of sailing champions. By racing alongside their sporting heroes, young competitors witness firsthand the dedication and skill required to excel in the sport. The regatta’s inclusive format not only inspires but also prepares aspiring athletes for future success on national and international stages.

Read: Freedom Boat Club in Manly Joins EcoMarines in Moreton Bay Cleanup Mission

As the final major sailing event of 2024, Sail Brisbane is a celebration of the strength and vitality of Australia’s sailing community. With racing continuing through to Saturday, 21 December, the waters off Moreton Bay will shine as the backdrop for intense competition and camaraderie.

Published 17-December-2024

Historic Manly Mansion Hits Market for First Time in 60 Years

Photo Credit: realestate.com.au

The historic Cloncrew estate at 12 Valetta Street, an original Spanish Mission-style Manly mansion, hits the market for the first time in 60 years after being owned by the same family for seven decades.

Built in 1938 by renowned Brisbane architect Eric Percival Trewern for barrister Dennis O’Connor, who had longstanding ties to Manly dating back to 1898, the sprawling 2,548 square meter hilltop property offers a grand blend of Spanish mission architecture and Art Deco design.

Its prime waterfront location captures stunning panoramic views of Moreton Bay and the Royal Queensland Yacht Squadron marina that many Manly residents know and love.

“Cloncrew is truly one of our area’s landmark estates and most significant remaining historic properties,” said Danny Day of Ocean Realty, who is marketing the property. “Its original condition is immaculately preserved.”

Indeed, many of Cloncrew’s breathtaking original details remain intact, including soaring ornate ceilings, glazed lead-light double doors, walls veneered in rich Queensland timbers, and the home’s pièce de résistance — a spectacular semicircular Piazza terrace overlooking the bay.

Other standout period features are the grand living room’s cantilevered fireplace with Helidon freestone and carved timber mantle, the elegant dining room with servery window, and the opulent main bathroom’s Terrazzo floors and handmade Italian tiled shower.

While the kitchen has been updated, Day notes there is opportunity for the new owners to pursue further modernisation or additions like a glass atrium, subject to heritage approvals to preserve Cloncrew’s history and architectural integrity.

The property has already drawn interest from local buyers, as well as house hunters from Sydney and Melbourne, just days after hitting the market.

“This is really a once-in-a-generation opportunity to own an irreplaceable piece of Manly’s rich history and community fabric,” Day said. “I envision the new owners will be blown away by Cloncrew’s beauty and pedigree, and committed to honouring its past while adding their own vision.”

An indicative sale price is available by application, reflecting the property’s immense historic value and significance to Manly’s character. Locals will surely be watching with anticipation as this iconic estate finds its new custodians.

Published 29-February-2024

Man Dead After Jumping Into Waters at Manly Harbour

Photo Credit: myPolice Queensland Police News

Authorities have confirmed the death of a 46-year-old man after jumping into the waters at Manly Harbour late last night.

A frantic search operation was done after he failed to resurface.

**A search operation was done after he failed to resurface.**
Photo Credit: Facebook / The Bay Today

The Royal Queensland Yacht Squadron, overseeing the marina where the incident occurred, expressed deep sadness and shock. CEO Karen Baldwin conveyed the sorrow felt by their team, mentioning the lack of on-site staff during the late hours when the tragedy unfolded.

**CEO Karen Baldwin of Royal Queensland Yacht Squadron**
Photo Credit: LinkedIn

Emergency services swiftly responded to the call for help at Davenport Drive, near the Royal Queensland Yacht Squadron. Police, fire, rescue, and ambulance services mobilized immediately, commencing an extensive water search at first light this morning.

The search, involving Water Police, Police divers, and specialized emergency units, concluded tragically with the discovery of a body. The process of formal identification is underway, with authorities preparing a report for the coroner.

This incident adds to recent tragedies in bayside waters, further impacting the close-knit community. Just days ago, another incident claimed three lives when a boat capsized near Green Island in Moreton Bay during a fishing trip on Boxing Day.

The CEO, Karen Baldwin, highlighted the festive season and expressed profound condolences for the family and friends affected by this unexpected loss. The entire community mourns alongside the family, sharing in their sorrow during what should have been a joyful time of the year.

As investigations continue into the circumstances surrounding this heartbreaking event, the community grapples with the shock and sadness of this sudden loss. The residents of Manly are urged to support each other during this difficult time, extending their thoughts and sympathies to those impacted.

Published 2-January-2024

Entries Open for 2023-2024 Australian Hobie Cat National Championships in Manly

Excitement is building across Australia as the highly anticipated 2023-2024 Australian Hobie Cat National Championships, hosted by the Royal Queensland Yacht Squadron in Manly, open for entries.

The championship tour follows the grand success of the 50th Australian Championships held in late December 2022. Expectations for this year’s event are sky-high, making it the highlight of the Australian summer sailing calendar.

The Queensland Hobie Cat Association has been working hard to make sure this year’s championships are a big success and has enlisted help from Yacht Share, Sunstate Watersports, Cat Covers, and Gill to make it all happen.

Prior to the Brisbane event, the Championship Tour is set for several exciting stops:

Cat Classic: Nedlands Yacht Club, WA | September 24-25, 2023
Bill Cheal Memorial Regatta: Toukley Sailing Club, NSW | September 30 – October 1, 2023
Phil Johnston Memorial 14ft Regatta: Mannering Park Amateur Sailing Club, NSW | October 14-15, 2023
NSW State Championships: Top Gun Regatta, Kurnell Catamaran Club, NSW | November 4-5, 2023
Beware the Bullets: Palm Beach Sailing Club, NSW | November 18-19, 2023
Victorian Catamaran Championships: McCrae Yacht Club, VIC | November 26-27, 2023
Sail Brisbane: Royal Queensland Yacht Squadron, QLD | December 10-11, 2023

CHECK THE EVENTS CALENDAR

With a lineup of such thrilling events leading up to the Australian Hobie Cat National Championships, sailors and sailing enthusiasts alike are in for an action-packed and unforgettable season of competitive sailing.

For those eager to participate, all the registration details and important information regarding the Australian Championships can be found on the Hobie Cat Nationals’ official site. This includes the Notice of Race, a schedule of events, and information on local accommodations. Prospective entrants can easily register for both Series 1 and Series 2 by visiting the homepage, which will redirect them to RQYS.

Published 29-Sept-2023

Mara Stransky of Manly’s Royal Queensland Yacht Squadron Awarded Australia’s Female Sailor of the Year

Olympian Mara Stransky of the Royal Queensland Yacht Squadron in Manly has been named Female Sailor of the Year at the Australian Sailing Awards honouring the sports and its community.

Mara proved deserving of the award following her recent achievements at the ILCA 6 Women’s World Championships in Oman, where she finished sixth place, the Allianz World Cup in Holland, where she was fourth, and for her astounding winning finish at the Kiel Week.

The Manly sailor, who ranks as the third-best female sailor in the world, bested Nina Curtis from Royal Prince Alfred Yacht Club and Zoe Thomson from Royal Freshwater Bay Yacht Club for the highest honour.

Meanwhile, Tom Slingsby was named the Male Sailor of the Year whilst Chris Symonds was chosen as the Para Sailor of the Year.

The Australian Sailing Awards returned to an entire face-to-face ceremony since 2019. Below is the full list of winners:

Male Sailor of the Year
Tom Slingsby OAM – Gosford Sailing Club (NSW)

Female Sailor of the Year
Mara Stransky – Royal Queensland Yacht Squadron & Queensland Laser Association (QLD)

Youth Sailor of the Year
Evie Saunders – Manly Yacht Club (NSW)

Para Sailor of the Year
Chris Symonds – Wynyard Yacht Club, Australian Hansa Class Association Inc & Sailability Tasmania (TAS)

Offshore Sailor of the Year
Lisa Blair – Manly Yacht Club & Cruising Yacht Club of Australia (NSW)

Coach of the Year
Ben Durham – Royal Freshwater Bay Yacht Club (WA)

Club of the Year
Newcastle Cruising Yacht Club (NSW)

Volunteer of the Year
Peter Kinsman – Rye Yacht Club (VIC)

Instructor of the Year
Holly Hunt – Royal Freshwater Bay Yacht Club (WA)

Official of the Year
Andre Blasse – Black Rock Yacht Club/Australian OK Dinghy Association (VIC)

Sport Promotion Award
Nick Bez – Windsurfer Class Association of Australia (VIC)

Sport Professional Award
Michael Robinson – Keppel Bay Sailing Club (QLD)

SheSails Award
Mooloolaba Women’s Keelboat Regatta – Mooloolaba Yacht Club (QLD)

Sustainability Award
Marine Environment Committee – Fremantle Sailing Club (WA)

President’s Award
Sean Hogan (VIC)

About the Royal Queensland Yacht Squadron in Manly

Meanwhile, the Royal Queensland Yacht Squadron is one of Queensland’s oldest and most prestigious sailing and cruising clubs. Since 1885, the organisation has supported sailing by training potential sailors on all levels.

The Royal Queensland Yacht Squadron was Australia’s first sailing club to offer women membership in 1975, per past Commodore Bill Kirby.

“I well remember the late P/C John Hattrick meeting with P/C David Bowly and myself early in 1975 and telling us it simply wasn’t acceptable for the Squadron not to welcome Ladies into our midst and for them not to be able to take part in all facets of Club life. David was Vice Commodore at the time and I was the Rear.

“P/C John’s proposals were enthusiastically approved at a Special General Meeting of the Members and as they say, ‘The rest is history.'”

Soon after, the Ladies’ Committee raised money for the Snack Bar and held sailing classes for kids during scholl holidays. They also established the ArtArama, an arts and crafts festival that was popular in Manly for many years.

Manly’s Royal Queensland Yacht Squadron Invites You to a New Year Family Feast

Another transition is about to happen as one year ends and another begins. With everyone down for celebrating the New Year to symbolically welcome new beginnings, the Royal Queensland Yacht Squadron in Manly is hosting a fun-filled family event on the 31st of Dec 2019. What better way to start a brand new year than by enjoying the last night of 2019 with your loved ones!

The New Year’s Eve celebration at the Royal Queensland Yacht Squadron will kick off at 5:30 p.m. until the first hour of 2020 rolls. Dubbed the “Seafood Smorgasbord and Movie Night Under the Stars,” this party will include a generous table spread filled with healthy and delicious food, a feast for the children and two fun movies at the lawn!

Adult guests may indulge in salt and pepper calamari, spicy gumbo, grilled prawns, mussels, sand crab, oysters, as well as rolled pork, sumac grilled chicken, and a generous helping of fruits and salad greens at the smorgasbord. With a choice as generous as this, it’s fitting to relish and reflect on how good you’ve got it in 2019 whilst you sit, dine and look forward to 2020 overlooking the gorgeous view of the Manly Harbour.

*Photo Credit: Royal Queensland Yacht Squadron – Social/Facebook*

The kids, on the other hand, may enjoy a special menu consisting of wood-fired pizza, hotdogs and slushies. These treats are perfect for enjoying the movies on the big screen set up at the lawn.

The film screening will promptly start at 5:30 p.m. followed by the next movie at 7:30 p.m.

In lieu of the planned fireworks, the Manly Chamber of Commerce has made a charitable donation this year.

Reservations are at $85 per person (adults) and $25 (children). For bookings and inquiries to the Royal Queensland Yacht Squadron New Year’s Eve party, email reservations@rqys.com.au or phone 07 3396 8666.

The Royal Queensland Yacht Squadron at the Royal Esplanade is one of the oldest and most prestigious sailing clubs in Queensland. For generations, this bayside venue has also been a popular choice for events and celebrations.

Christmas Comes Early With Brisbane Bayside End of Year Celebration in Manly

The Brisbane Bayside End of Year Celebration is happening on 17 November at the Royal Queensland Yacht Squadron, 578 Royal Esplanade, Manly. The early Christmas Party welcomes local residents, online and offline business owners, and small, medium, home-based, brick-and-mortar entrepreneurs who do not have an end of year celebration to attend.

Tickets are inclusive of two drinks and canapés. Sales end on 15 November at exactly 4:00 p.m.

Attendees will be qualified to join raffles with amazing prizes at stake. Up for grabs are the following:

$30 meal voucher from The Coffee Club Wynnum

This place takes pride in being the newest coffee club in Brisbane. It offers all-day breakfast, lunches, and their signature coffee blends. There is a separate takeaway menu from the daily meal menu. The place can also be booked for large events.

$170 bicycle service voucher from Cranks Bicycle Garage

The establishment specialises in servicing and repairing all types of bicycles, as well as selling dependable and quality bike parts and accessories. Owners are also conducting workshops about bike fitting and bike maintenance. The most attractive service they offer, however, is the Personal Shopping Service where they help clients to purchase bikes.

$89 worth of Sterling Silver infinity necklace and matching ring from Wynnum Fine Jewellers

The business is owned and operated by a family who can customise and repair jewellery.

Review:

$60 worth of fresh fruit and veggie hamper with $20 credit from Perry’s Fruit Market and Juice Bar

Perry’s Fruit Market and Juice Bar is a known supplier of fresh produce for restaurants, cafes, pubs, schools, and events both in the Wynnum and Bayside area. It has been in business for more than 40 years. Just recently, it added a Juice Bar and a Gourmet Deli line.

$165 and $40 worth of dog training sessions and slow feeder from DogSense Personal Dog Training & Pet Services.

The DogSense Personal Dog Training & Pet Services is run by a dog trainer with 13 years of experience in Positive Reinforcement Obedience & Behavioural Training. This technique employs positive reinforcement when training dogs. It does not use aversive methods that involve physically hurting pets.

Review:

The Brisbane Bayside End of Year Celebration will be photographed by Jack Hart. Jack is a talented student at the Queensland College of Art who moonlights as a photographer for corporate headshots, commercial based advertising shoots, and product shots. He also shoots for sports, travel, and lifestyle events. Jack dreams of working with Nat Geo and Getty Sports in the future.

Jack Hart Photography
Credit: Jack Hart Instagram

To purchase tickets for this year-end celebration, click here.

Road Closures to be Implemented to Give Way to the Manly Harbour Halloween Street Party

Manly Harbour Village will be celebrating their Halloween Street Party soon, one of the biggest parties in the village. To make the Halloween Street Party happen, there will be several road closures and several changes on the traffic conditions.

Event Details

Date	Saturday, 28 October
Time	11:00 a.m.
Venue	Manly Harbour Village Precinct (The Esplanade)
Tickets	FREE

Road Closures

Photo credit: Manly Harbour Village/Facebook

On Saturday, parts of the Esplanade, Royal Esplanade, Cambridge Parade, Stratton Terrace, Cardigan Parade, and Ferguson Street will be closed for the annual street party. If you plan on going to the party, it’s better to leave your cars at home. Finding a car park space near the Manly Train Station is also recommended. Manly Station is only a 500-metre walk to the event.

Here are the roads affected by closures during the Manly Harbour Halloween Street Party.

10:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m.

Esplanade	From Cambridge Parade to Fairlead Crescent
Royal Esplanade	From Cambridge Parade to Benalla Street
Cambridge Parade	From Esplanade to Melville Terrace
Stratton Terrace	Cardigan Parade to Manly Hotel (first driveway)
Cardigan Parade	Stratton Terrace to Esplanade

11:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m.

Cambridge Parade	From Arnold Street/Melville Terrace intersection to Carlton Terrace
Ferguson Street	Cambridge Parade to Carlton Terrace

There will be a street parade from 6:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m., which will require closure of the Esplanade, from Fairlead Crescent to Nelson Parade. This will be a no vehicle access parade. Customers that will need access to the Fairlead Crescent before 6:00 p.m. and after 7:00 p.m. should contact the venues directly.

Manly Harbour Halloween Street Party

If you’re in Manly and you wish to celebrate Halloween, dress up and join the family-friendly and alcohol-free Manly Harbour Halloween Street Party. A street party also means street food! Manly Hotel proudly brings Harbourside Eat Streets to the street party. The Esplanade will be transformed into foodie haven, where you can find different food trucks and stalls that will offer different street food from all over the world!

Over 100 market stalls will be featured at the street party. The amusement rides and free movie at the park at 7:00 p.m. may keep the kids entertained throughout the event, but it’s the Australia’s largest mobile Ferris Wheel that will leave them in awe.

Competitions including pumpkin carving and best dressed will always be a part of the
extravagant Halloween event. The stage will feature heaps of entertainment. Don’t forget the Royal Queensland Yacht Squadron’s on-water displays — five hours of pure entertainment.

A “spooktacular” fireworks display set to music will conclude the Halloween Street Party.

HALLOWEEN MAGIC // This year the Wynnum Herald Main Stage is set for its biggest entertainment program yet at the Manly Harbour Village Halloween Street Party 2016! Opening at 1pm with non-stop entertainment until fireworks at 9pm. A Spooky Spectacular Street Party!For more information visit www.manlyharbourvillage.com#mhvhalloween16 #manlyharbourvillage
Posted by Manly Harbour Village on Friday, October 14, 2016

Visit the event page or the Manly Harbour Village website and Facebook page for further details and updates.

Events to Watch Out for in Manly This Week

September is almost over! This week will be full of exciting events, from family fun days to concerts and festivals. Here are some of the events you should watch for this week.

Tuesday, 26 September

Lah-Lah Having Fun

Tickets:

$25.50 – Adult and Children
FREE – Children 12 months and under

Time: 10:00 a.m.

Venue: Moreton Bay College

Lah-Lah and her Big Live Band will be celebrating the release of their 2017 SONY Music album, Having Fun, with a concert tour across Australia. More than just a concert, this will be an interactive and educational music tour featuring live music, singing, and dancing.

The event is general admission and the venue will be a flat-floor room with a large space for the kids and parents to sit together. This setup will provide an interactive environment for the children to stand up and participate during the show.

Due to the organiser’s occupational health and safety policy, prams and pushers are not allowed inside the auditorium. There will be a designated “pram parking area” in the foyer of the auditorium.

Wednesday, 27 September

Travel Information Evening

Tickets: FREE

Time: 5:30 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.

Venue: Trendell & Turner Travel Associates – Manly

Photo credit: Travel Associates/Facebook

Trendell & Turner Travel Associates will host a free travel information evening with drinks and nibbles throughout the event. Guest speaker Camille Moore of APT & Travelmarvel will talk about the personalised cruise trips that will explore the diverse regions of South America and Antarctica.

Attendees will also get a chance to win a lucky door prize. Bookings are essential as slots are limited.

Friday, 29 September

Oktoberfest

Time: 6:00 p.m. – 10:00 p.m.

Venue: Royal Queensland Yacht Squadron

Oktoberfest hits Manly this Friday! It will be an “all-German” fest with German beer on tap such as Lowenbrau and Carlsberg, German meal specials, and live German music. Watch out and listen closely for the Chicken Dance music. When played, you need to stop whatever you’re doing and do the Chicken Dance. Patrons who will never fail to dance the Chicken Dance will get an exciting prize.

Dress to impress! Don’t forget to wear your Lederhosen and Dirndls.

Sunday, 1 October

Sunday Sounds at the Tide

Tickets: FREE ADMISSION

Time: 3:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m.

Venue: Tide Wine Bar

Every Sunday, the Tide is celebrating tapa specials; great selection of wines, beers and ciders; and live music. This is a kid-friendly event, so bring them along and have an afternoon of chilled out music, while enjoying the best view in Manly.