Community Engagement
BLAIRGOWRIE YACHT SQUADRON
Welcoming our community
Providing space for others
At the heart of our club is a belief that meaningful connection goes beyond our walls. Our motto is, Family, Friendship, Sailing and we’re proud to open our doors to welcome and collaborate with a wide range of local community groups.
Community involvement isn’t just something we support—it’s something we actively participate in. Whether through shared events, partnerships, or initiatives, we’re committed to creating a space that feels accessible, supportive, and enriching for all. By building strong relationships with the communities around us, we grow together.
BYS Oaks Day
All funds raised from our annual Oaks Day event are donated to Peninsula Home Hospice. PHH is a community palliative care organisation providing specialist palliative care and practical support to people living at home on the Mornington Peninsula with a life-limiting illness who rely upon government funding and donations.
BYS Pink Day
Every January, BYS transforms into a sea of pink as our community comes together—on and off the water—to support the Breast Cancer Network Australia. Proudly sponsored by Coast and Country Getaways, this special day features our Ladies Skipper Race, a vibrant and pink atmosphere, and a generous raffle with fantastic prizes, all in the name of raising vital funds and awareness.
Sorrento Rotary
BYS is proud to support the Sorrento Rotary Club by providing dedicated meeting spaces and hosting their fortnightly Thursday night dinners. We’re pleased to offer a welcoming environment for Rotary members to connect, collaborate, and continue their valuable work within the community.
Probus
BYS proudly engages with several Probus groups across the Peninsula, warmly hosting their annual Christmas lunches. It's a festive tradition we value, celebrating community, connection, and good cheer.
ORCV - Ocean Racing Club of Victoria
We’re always delighted to host our sailing friends from the Ocean Racing Club of Victoria (ORCV) for overnight marina stays, group dinners, race briefings, and presentations. Their visits, particularly during their winter series and on Boxing Day before they start the Melbourne to Hobart, are a valued part of our community spirit.
Whitecliffs Foreshore Reserve
BYS is proud to collaborate with the Whitecliffs Foreshore team, supporting their community initiatives by hosting school holiday program activities in the sheltered space of our Clubhouse. It’s a wonderful way to engage families and foster local connections.
Yoga with Jo Hafey
Start your day with serenity—join Jo Hafey for yoga sessions in the Clubhouse, held every Tuesday and Thursday morning during the school term at BYS. All levels are welcome. Book directly with Jo to reserve your spot.
Sailability
At BYS, our Club’s motto, “Family, Friendship, Sailing” encapsulates the welcoming environment we aspire to create for our members and guests. Sailing is a sport where anyone can participate, and we strive to ensure that everyone feels at home and valued. This same spirit drives our renowned Sailability Program, an initiative aimed at enabling individuals with special needs, limited mobility, or disabilities to partake in the joys of sailing.
SPRS
The Southern Peninsula Rescue Squad, a fully volunteer-based organisation, plays a vital role in keeping our waters safe. Located on the top floor of Scott’s Shed, they are an integral part of our maritime community. BYS is proud to support their ongoing training by regularly providing access to our facilities, helping ensure their members stay skilled, prepared, and ready to respond.
Dolphin Research Institute
BYS is proud to support the Dolphin Research Institute and their vital work in marine conservation. All profits from ice sales on our marina are donated directly to the Institute. We also provide a dedicated learning space for local children, helping to inspire the next generation of ocean advocates through hands-on education and discovery.
Padua - Marine Studies
BYS is proud to partner with Padua College by providing unique, waterfront learning spaces for their students. Our location by the water offers an ideal environment for hands-on, immersive education—enriching learning experiences and fostering a deeper connection to the coastal environment.
Rosebud Secondary
BYS is excited to have Rosebud Secondary College students participate in our OutThereSailing program. This hands-on initiative provides students with valuable sailing skills, promoting teamwork, confidence, and a deeper connection to the water—all while encouraging an active and adventurous lifestyle.
Easter Art Show
The BYS Easter Art Show showcases a broad range of artistic works from a variety of media including indoor and outdoor sculpture. Outdoor sculpture takes pride and place on The Deck and lawn, with beautiful pieces of art displayed with the Southern Waters Room. The Art Show from Easter Saturday through to Monday. Tickets available at the door each day and visitors are welcome to stay on at the club and enjoy the spectacular views from the deck of the bay or just relax on the lawn or beach.