Dear Members,

As we enter the 2010 season we should always remember that we are privileged to own a superb 250-year old building, with a fantastic view over Findhorn Bay and the Moray Firth, an outstanding sailing area and an unenviable heritage.  With an 80-year history behind us we have much to be proud of, not least for the provision of racing, coaching and training for many.  We have introduced many youngsters in to sailing and powerboating and given them opportunity to develop their skills and to realise significant enjoyment.  Additionally, we have provided an important social element in many people’s lives for many years, and we now have several families in to their 4^th generation.

We must not, however, lose sight that the Club as we know it is still under threat.  Our finances remain under significant pressure, with operating costs exceeding income.  We survived last year because of the generosity of a few members, nominal maintenance spend, nil infrastructure spend and a severe reduction in staff wages over the winter.  We have no funds for infrastructure investment and no contingency funds for unexpected problems, and yet our Clubhouse demands repair and upgrade, as does our sporting support equipment.

There are clear indicators that we can indeed put the Club on a track that will secure another 80 years.  Last year (2009) we reversed a trend of more than 10 years by increasing our membership numbers, the sailing saw higher numbers of competitors in all weathers, the Clubhouse was visibly vibrant during the Summer, and our bar and catering income was up.  Training provided a service to our members and contributed to Club funds.  Also, our new winter members made a warm and welcome contribution to our social activity over the quiet period.  This all adds up to a tentative step in the right direction.

Our new steward and franchise caterer (Geoff and Irene Hooton) have made a commitment to do everything in their power to assist us to re-generate the Club. 

We are a volunteer club and our future relies on the grace and favour of our members.  This is not just myself, my fellow Council members and Council’s small band of sub-Ctte members – but you as well;  individually and collectively.  I would ask you to put particular focus on supporting and promoting the Club throughout this year, thereby making a substantive contribution to the Club’s regeneration, and its future.  Without such a contribution, we will face hard decisions about the Club’s outlook for 2011

To adapt a famous quote “When good people do nothing ………..”

I wish you all an enjoyable and fulfilling year within your Club, and for those that are taking to the water, exciting and challenging sailing.