Blairgowrie Yacht Squadron proudly celebrated its annual Volunteers’ Champagne Breakfast during National Volunteers Week, honouring the incredible individuals who give their time and energy to help our club thrive. This year’s national theme, Connecting Communities, resonated deeply throughout the morning, as we acknowledged the many ways our volunteers strengthen the fabric of BYS — on and off the water.
Commodore Martin Kudnig opened the event with a warm welcome and a reflection on the meaningful connections formed through volunteering. From Race Officers and safety boat crews to the Sailability team, BBQ cooks, tower operators, and committee members, he highlighted the breadth of roles that contribute to the inclusive, welcoming spirit of our club.
Club Captain Richard Backwell also addressed the crowd, sharing his personal motivation: “I volunteer because I really care about the place — and I think that’s probably why most people do too.” He went on to recognise a group of outstanding volunteers who have made exceptional contributions this season.
In no particular order, our heartfelt thanks to: Val Smith, Ginny Thatcher, John Thatcher, Sally Graham, Brad McKenzie, David Brown, Neil Copp, Scott Hailes, John Foreman, Adrian Vinck, Vero Collet, Jane Grimshaw, Kirsten Binns Smith, Stephen Cowell, Jura Liubinas, Garry Snell, James Allen, Narelle Kudnig, Sally Derham, Felicia Brown, James Roscoe, and Andy McIntyre.
Vice Commodore Georgina Plumridge spoke with several standout volunteers about what volunteering means to them. Brad McKenzie, who can often be found behind the lens capturing our on-water action, shared that he’s inspired by the young sailors and enjoys being out on the water to support them. Ginny Thatcher, a friendly face at our BBQs and prize givings, said it’s the social side she enjoys most — meeting new people and being part of the club community. Val Smith, our tireless volunteer coordinator and passionate Sailability supporter, spoke about the importance of making sailing accessible and the joy of sharing the water with others.
Whether you’re behind the scenes, on the water, or at the clubhouse BBQ, your efforts bring people together and embody what it means to connect communities. From all of us at BYS — thank you.
The Volunteer of the Year will be announced at Presentation Night this coming Saturday. We look forward to celebrating this special honour together.
