Issue date
Yachting New Zealand’s bi-annual Commodores’ Conference had close to 100 people from 71 clubs attend over the weekend.
YNZ Chief Executive David Abercrombie was pleased with the turnout and says the event was a huge success.
“The support of clubs and input from YNZ staff, the RSO’s, Board and sponsors provided attendees with an outstanding opportunity to see what is happening across New Zealand and to catch up on the work going on within YNZ aimed at providing direct benefit back to clubs,” he says.
Abercrombie says a discussion on the club affiliation model was a “positive and lively affair,” which resulted in an overwhelming mood for change.
“Of three different models proposed, a flat fee model appeared to gain the most support along with a suggested club membership card that would include a number of personal benefits, not the least of which would be proof of affiliation,” he says.
Comments about the weekend have been positive so far. Feedback from commodores expressed how useful it was to hear how other clubs operate and take ideas back to their own patch.
Kerikeri Cruising Club’s Lane Ayr says it was a well-run event and beneficial to be a part of, and as with all conferences, there are parts that apply and parts that don’t.
“I make no judgment on exactly if all the things we’re doing are the right things but I certainly think we do them well,” he says.
Among other things, discussion points included club promotion, engaging schools, working with sponsors and engaging volunteers.
Visual displays and presentations included a wall demonstrating the very successful nationwide media coverage of 2013 Volvo National Sailing & Boating Day; ZHIK introduced 'Club Z' to clubs; AON presented their insurance model for Clubs to reduce costs and increase cover and Volvo had an XC90 on display.
