Thank you BYS Volunteers!
We were delighted to see around 90 volunteers on Saturday at our annual Volunteers’ Champagne Breakfast. The morning provided the opportunity to reflect on the contribution our volunteers make, through committees, sub-committees, working groups, race management during club racing and regattas, Sailability, the Art Show, working bees, and a myriad of activities that not only allow us to run racing but allows the Club to operate. It was lovely to come together, share a meal and good conversation. There are many reasons why people volunteer, Brad McKenzie shared that “Volunteering has allowed me to make new friends and be part of the BYS community, I get to help with things I enjoy like taking photos and cooking BBQs.”
“Bringing order to chaos on the water; running good racing is something I enjoy and find rewarding” explained Race Officer Steve Cowell.
With the breakfast leading into National Volunteer Week, Australia’s largest annual celebration, it was fitting to announce our Volunteer of the Year during our breakfast, rather than at Presentation Night.
Veronique Collet – BYS Volunteer of the Year
Veronique, affectionately known to many as Vero, only joined BYS in April 2023 and dove headfirst into volunteering, even before her membership application had finished processing. Vero’s calming French accent has graced our airways all season, making our radio duty not just efficient but also, dare we say, rather chic. Her impact has been nothing short of remarkable, she has clocked up far more volunteering days than anyone else during club racing and regattas. Vero has done her fair share of sailing but prefers to stay on solid ground. She’s now a regular friendly and welcoming face in the race tower, and her enthusiasm embodies this year’s National Volunteer Week theme, ‘Something for Everyone.’ Vero has shown us all that there’s a place for everyone in the world of volunteering. Vero spends her Australian winters in France, but don’t think for a second that she’s taking a break from volunteering. Over in Saint Pierre Quiberon, she’s just as involved, helping with the administration of learn-to-sail programs and international regattas. It’s clear that no matter where she is, Vero finds a way to contribute and make a difference.
“I really enjoy being part of the Club and love everything the Club has given me,” said Veronique. “You’re the voice! You’re the voice we hear, people say to me on the deck. They are sailors I don’t know, but it’s funny, they know me. I love working with everyone in the tower.”
Congratulations, and merci beaucoup Vero! We are incredibly grateful for everything you do.
To be apart of the action you can read more here or reach out to the team in the sailing office or member services. We’d love you to be involved!
