Royal Sydney Yacht Squadron Club

Members Update Meeting

2026-06-03T04:42:01Z

The General Committee advises that the event scheduled for 23 June 2026 will proceed as planned. However, rather than a formal General Meeting, it will be conducted as a Member Update meeting.

This meeting forms part of the Board's ongoing series of Member Updates regarding the future strategy of the Squadron and the decisions required to support that future. The evening will provide members with an update on a number of initiatives that are underway that relate to membership, sailing, hospitality, waterfront planning and the future of the out-of-water boat repair operations.

As part of this process, a second Member Update meeting will also be held in late July with the date to be finalised. Details of the second meeting will be communicated to members once confirmed.

As members are aware, the Board has been considering a range of initiatives aimed at strengthening sailing participation, increasing member engagement and ensuring the long-term prosperity of the Squadron. One of these initiatives involves the future use of the hardstand precinct and the out-of-water boat repair operations.

Following recent discussions with boat owning members, the Board recognises that many of those members would like a more detailed understanding of the broader strategic context, the options considered and the factors informing these proposals. Accordingly, the Board has decided to pause the previously announced closure of the out-of-water boat repair operations while further communication and member consultation is undertaken.

The Board's three strategic priorities remain:
• Growing sailing participation across all ages and pathways.
• Increasing member engagement and utilisation.
• Ensuring the long-term prosperity of the Squadron.

The purpose of the 23 June Member Update Evening will be to:
• Outline the Board's current thinking and strategic direction.
• Explain the proposal regarding the hardstand precinct, and the factors that informed it.
• Answer questions and listen to member feedback.

At the same time, a number of other initiatives already approved by the Board will continue to progress. These include the temporary closure and refurbishment of the Careening Cove Anchorage kitchen, representing the first major upgrade of that facility in approximately twenty years, together with a range of other projects aimed at improving member amenity across the Squadron.

The Board remains committed to an open and transparent process and looks forward to continuing the discussion with members about the future direction of the Squadron.

Further details regarding the 23 June Member Update Evening will be circulated in the week prior to the meeting.

Yours sincerely,
Russell B. Taylor
Commodore

164th Annual Prizegiving Celebrates the Season’s Champions

2026-06-03T04:44:37Z

The Carabella Room was overflowing with Members and guests to celebrate the 2025-26 Sailing Season with a presentation of the Club's finest trophies.

Rear Commodore Michael Lindsay reflected on the season, highlighting the General Committee's ongoing commitment to nurturing sailors of all ages. Commodore Russell Taylor presented the following special awards:

Flag Officer’s Crewperson on the Year – Carabella Tray
Susan Hardy

Awarded in recognition of her outstanding dedication, reliability and contribution across a broad range of Squadron sailing activities, including Twilight, weekend, winter and women’s sailing events. Throughout the season, Susan progressed from a highly capable crew member to a trusted skipper of Andiamo, taking full responsibility for the vessel’s preparation, operation and safe return when required. Her calm leadership, sound judgment and seamanship were demonstrated on several occasions, including managing a significant onboard incident and confidently taking control during a crew-overboard situation. Dependable, versatile and always willing to step into any role, Susan has become a cornerstone of her team, fostering a positive and high-performing environment through her teamwork, leadership and commitment to the values of the Royal Sydney Yacht Squadron.

Youth Sailor of the Year - John Thomas Batty Trophy
Harriet McLachlan

Awarded in recognition of her outstanding achievements, dedication to training, and exemplary conduct both on and off the water. As a key member of the RSYS Youth Match Racing Program, Harriet has demonstrated exceptional commitment to developing her skills, achieving second place at the Australian Women’s Match Racing Championship, third place at the New Zealand Women’s Match Racing Championship, and third place at the John Messenger Women’s Match Racing Regatta. She has also been a winning member of the RSYS Youth Elliot Interclub team for two consecutive years. Beyond her competitive success, Harriet is respected for her maturity, sportsmanship, strong work ethic, and willingness to support and encourage others, making her a valued role model who embodies the Royal Sydney Yacht Squadron’s values of integrity, excellence, inclusion, respect, progression, and safety.

On-Water Volunteer of the Year - Elaine Rowntree Trophy
Ian Kingsford Smith

Awarded in recognition of his outstanding voluntary contribution to race management and sailing operations at the Royal Sydney Yacht Squadron. Throughout the season, Ian served as Race Officer for the One Design Mini Regattas, Hardy Cup and J/70 regattas, while also dedicating countless hours behind the scenes assisting with season documentation, sailing instructions and calendar planning. A member since 1991, Ian has provided decades of leadership, expertise and service to the Club and the wider sailing community. Respected for his professionalism, reliability, generosity and commitment to the sport, he continues to play an invaluable role in the successful delivery of racing and the support of fellow volunteers, making him a most deserving recipient of the Elaine Rowntree Trophy.

Yachtswoman of the Year – Joanne Trophy
Annie Wilmot

Awarded in recognition of her outstanding achievements, dedication and enthusiasm for sailing. Coming from a strong sailing background, Annie has built an impressive career through Olympic pathway classes and continues to excel as a double-handed sailor. Throughout the 2025–26 season, she represented the Royal Sydney Yacht Squadron and Australian Sailing with distinction in her 49erFX campaign alongside Laura Harding, achieving 8th place at the European Championship, a silver medal at French Olympic Week, 21st at the World Championship, and claiming victory at both Sail Melbourne and the Australian Championship. Annie’s commitment to excellence, teamwork and sportsmanship, combined with her success on the international stage, make her a highly deserving recipient of the Joanne Trophy.

Yachtsman of the Year - Idris Cup
James Hayhoe

Awarded in recognition of his outstanding achievements, leadership and sportsmanship throughout the season. As skipper, James led the Royal Sydney Yacht Squadron to its first-ever victory in the 2025 NSW Youth Match Racing Championship, ending the Cruising Yacht Club of Australia’s 23-year winning streak, before achieving another historic first by leading RSYS to victory at the 2026 Toyota Youth International Match Racing Cup in New Zealand. In addition to these successes, James has continued to develop his skills through the RSYS Youth Keelboat Squad and as a competitor on the World Match Racing Tour. A former Youth Captain and current club instructor, he generously shares his knowledge and passion for sailing with sailors of all ages, making a significant contribution to the Squadron community. His commitment to excellence, leadership, seamanship and mentorship make him a worthy recipient of the Idris Cup.

Sportsperson of the Year - Ruth McCance Memorial Trophy
David Ross

Awarded in recognition of his outstanding sportsmanship, service and contribution to the Royal Sydney Yacht Squadron community. An active participant in Twilight and Main Series racing aboard Kookaburra, Alouette and Hector, David has demonstrated a lifelong commitment to sailing and to supporting others. Following the passing of John Waring, David played a key role in ensuring Alouette continued to provide a welcoming environment where sailors of all experience levels could learn, develop and enjoy the sport. Through his generosity, leadership and encouragement, he has helped many sailors build confidence and become part of the Squadron community. Beyond racing, David is a dedicated Race Officer and Coxswain who has contributed extensively to race management at the Squadron and major events, including the Sydney to Hobart Yacht Race and the 2025 Etchells World Championship. His quiet leadership, selfless service, inclusiveness and commitment to the sport make him a most deserving recipient of the Ruth McCance Memorial Trophy.

See the full list of awards

See more photos by Josh Hung here

Training for New York Yacht Club’s Women’s International Championship begins

2026-05-22T03:21:47Z

The first Melges IC37 has arrived in Sydney. Developed by the New York Yacht Club to foster high-performance Corinthian sailing, the IC37 has proven itself to be a highly appealing platform.

New owners, RSYS members Scott Lawson, and David Ferguson were looking for a performance boat for regatta rather than offshore racing.

Scott commented ‘We also wanted to provide a platform for young sailors to gain experience in modern racing yachts. We’re doing that by providing the boat for the Women’s International Championship teams from RSYS and RPAYC to promote women’s racing.

Scott confirms ‘These boats are a whole lot of fun and challenging at the same time! The design lends itself to extremely competitive performance sailing which tests expert sailors, while also being a wonderful training platform for less experienced sailors.

‘Our first regatta was the Sydney Harbour Regatta followed shortly after by the Port Stephen Sail week, which matched us up against boats in the newly formed and rapidly growing Super40 category. The team is incredibly happy to podium on both occasions. We’ll stretch ourselves again at Hamilton Island Race Week. In the interim, we’re thrilled to be supporting Royal Sydney Yacht Squadron’s campaign led by Vice Commodore Karyn Gojnich OLY, to participate in the New York Yacht Club’s Women’s International Championship in September’.

As one of 20 elite women sailors from around the world invited to bring a team to the NYYC Women’s International Championship, to be sailed on the IC37 Vice Commodore Gojnich commented ‘This is an outstanding opportunity to continue to develop women’s sailing at RSYS. We have a strong women’s program, starting from absolute beginners with opportunities to grow through to elite levels. Scott and David’s support is incredibly timely and generous. Having the chance to train on the boat we will be racing is an enormous advantage. Now we are very much a ‘development team’ however we are lifting the baseline for our squad, lifting awareness, lifting skills, lifting experience. . We are opening opportunities for women to get an insight into sailing at an elite level that will give them all confidence when stepping on to any boat in the future’.

America’s Cup sailor, Olympian and club member Neville Wittey is also providing expert coaching and skills development for the RSYS team. Final crew selection will take place in July, for the September regatta in Newport, Rhode Island.

TP52 Zen Experience

2026-05-19T23:50:16Z

RSYS Youth Sailors Experience High-Performance TP52 Sailing Aboard Zen

On Monday 18 May, a group of Royal Sydney Yacht Squadron youth match racing squad sailors and intermediate sailors were treated to a unique early morning sailing experience aboard the TP52 Zen on Sydney Harbour.

The session provided sailors with valuable exposure to high-performance keelboat sailing, allowing them to experience the teamwork, communication and boat handling required aboard a grand prix racing yacht. Opportunities like this play an important role in inspiring and developing the next generation of RSYS sailors.

A sincere thank you to RSYS member Gordon Ketelbey, owner of Zen, for so generously making the yacht available to our youth sailors.

Thank you also to Shane and Garth from Doyle Sails for their support and coaching throughout the morning, along with recent Congressional Cup winners
Max Brennan and Hamish Vass for sharing their experience and knowledge with the sailors onboard.

Special thanks also to Andrew Lee for capturing the morning with a fantastic collection of images.

James Mayo Makes Etchells History with Third Consecutive World Title

2026-05-19T03:38:09Z

Squadron member James Mayo has made Etchells history, claiming a third consecutive World Championship title alongside Paul Cayard and Ben Lamb aboard Magpie AUS 1526 at the 2026 Etchells World Championship in San Diego.

Their victory in the final race secured the championship in a highly competitive international fleet and marked the first time in more than 40 years that a crew has achieved three straight Etchells Worlds titles.

Squadron Member Jeanne-Claude Strong on Flying Higher with Sam Newton and Seve Jarvin finished an impressive 8th overall in one of the strongest fleets in recent history.

The five-day championship featured 76 teams from 11 countries and showcased close racing, exceptional sportsmanship, and the renowned camaraderie of the Etchells class.

RSYS Sailors that competed in the event:

Magpie – James Mayo – 1st
Flying Higher - Jeanne-Claude Strong – 8th
Barry - Simon Cunnington - 14th
Kutti Beach – John Winning – 31st

Read the full story in Sail-World

RSYS Members Impress at 49er and 49erFX World Championships

2026-05-19T03:59:50Z

Max Paul & Harry Price

Royal Sydney Yacht Squadron members delivered strong performances at the 2026 49er, 49erFX and Nacra 17 World Championships in Quiberon, France, highlighted by outstanding results from Max Paul, Otto Henry, Jack Ferguson, Annie Wilmot and Brooke Wilson.

In the highly competitive 49er fleet, Max Paul and helm Harry Price narrowly missed the podium after entering the final day in medal contention, eventually finishing an impressive sixth overall. Otto Henry and Jack Ferguson also gained valuable international experience, finishing 28th and 32nd respectively with their crews.

Otto Henry & Shaun Connor

In the 49erFX class, Annie Wilmot and Laura Harding showed excellent speed early in the regatta and qualified for Gold Fleet racing before injury forced their withdrawal. Brooke Wilson also competed strongly alongside Evie Haseldine in the 49erFX fleet.

The regatta marked another important step forward for Australia’s next generation of Olympic sailors as they continue building towards future international campaigns.

Read More from Australian Sailing

Annie Wilmot and Laura Harding share their bad news

Celebrating the Heart of the Squadron - Our Volunteers

2026-05-16T02:03:56Z

As part of National Volunteer Week, we would like to extend our heartfelt thanks and appreciation for your outstanding dedication and invaluable contribution to our Club.

The strength and spirit of the Royal Sydney Yacht Squadron are built on the generosity of volunteers like you, who so willingly give your time, energy and expertise in support of our community and the sport of sailing. Your commitment and willingness to contribute beyond expectation are truly appreciated.

Whether serving on committees, assisting with regattas, coordinating social events, maintaining our facilities, or simply lending a helping hand when needed, your efforts play an essential role in creating the welcoming and vibrant community we are proud to call our Squadron.

On behalf of the entire membership, thank you for your continued support, enthusiasm and hard work. The countless hours you devote to the Squadron make a lasting difference and are deeply valued by all.

Annual Dinghy Presentation Evening

2026-05-13T05:02:57Z

The annual Dinghy Squad Presentation Evening was held at the Royal Sydney Yacht Squadron on Friday 8 May, bringing together sailors and families from the 2025 and 2026 seasons to celebrate another successful year of youth sailing.

The evening recognised the achievements, dedication and sportsmanship of the club’s young sailors, with Pointscore trophies awarded across a range of classes and divisions. Perpetual and Committee Awards were also presented to outstanding members who demonstrated exceptional commitment both on and off the water.

A special highlight of the evening was the formal welcome of the Squadron’s newest Youth Members by Vice Commodore Karyn Gojnich, marking an important milestone in their sailing journey.

The event reflected the strong spirit of camaraderie and participation within the Dinghy Squad program and celebrated the bright future of youth sailing at the Squadron.

Perpetual Trophy and Award Winners:
Youth Committee Radial Scratch Trophy & T.E Morgan Memorial Trophy - awarded to Mark Qu
Marj Colman 4.7 Scratch Trophy & Youth 4.7 Trophy - awarded to Lauren Tandy
H.B Jarrett Junior Sailing Championship Shield - awarded to Aurelia Wilson
Junior Pointscore Millner Trophy - awarded to Orlando Watts

Norman G Booth Trophy - awarded to Aurelia Wilson
Paul Waring Memorial Trophy - awarded to Jay Elsum
Spirit of the Squadron Trophy - awarded to Alastair Kernaghan
Optimist Achievement Award - awarded to Max Hughes
Optimist Award for Excellence - awarded to Aurelia Wilson

Green Fleet Most Improved - Harry Ross
Optimist Most Improved - Maisie Borg
Optimist Most Outstanding - Issy Yu
Laser 4.7 Most Improved - Jay Elsum
RS Feva Most Outstanding - Leonardo Henderson

Summer Series 2025/26
1st Radial - Mark Qu
2nd Radial - Massimo Henderson

1st 4.7 - Lauren Tandy
2nd 4.7 - Alastair Kernaghan
3rd 4.7 - Jay Elsum

1st Optimist Scratch & 2nd Handicap - Aurelia Wison
1st Optimist Handicap & 2nd Scratch - Orlando Watts

Winter 2025 Series
1st 4.7 ILCA - Lauren Tandy
2nd 4.7 ILCA - Felicity Cameron

1st Optimist - Alistair Kernaghan
2nd Optimist - Orlando Watts
3rd Optimist - Alex Baxter

1st Green Fleet - Max Hughes
2nd Green Fleet - Bono Svacek
3rd Green Fleet Scratch - Laura O'Hara
3rd Green Fleet Handicap - Adrian Siden

2026 Youth Captains: Lauren Tandy & Alastair Kernaghan

Photographs by Massimo Henderson

Wine-Dark Sea Shines at Sail Port Stephens

2026-05-07T01:14:03Z

RSYS Member Peter Lowndes and his crew aboard Wine-Dark Sea delivered an outstanding performance at Sail Port Stephens, winning the Super Racer Cruiser PHS pointscore and finishing second overall in IRC in a highly competitive fleet.

The regatta began in light and fluky conditions on day one, which proved challenging for the heavier cruiser-racers in the division. Wine-Dark Sea posted a respectable sixth place in both PHS and IRC as the crew settled into the series.

As the breeze strengthened on day two to a steadier 15 knots, Wine-Dark Sea began to show her true potential, securing first place on PHS and second in IRC. The final day brought even stronger conditions, with 18-knot winds and gusts exceeding 25 knots funneling through the entrance to Port Stephens — conditions perfectly suited to the boat. The crew finished with second place in both IRC and PHS, securing podium finishes in both handicap systems.

The result was a testament to the strength of a Corinthian campaign built on teamwork, consistency and continual boat development.
Skipper Peter Lowndes was supported by an experienced and committed crew including Robert Speedy, Richard Wulff, Trent Goldsack, Jane McCulloch, Saxon McGregor, Lindy Hardcastle, Gerard Kesby, Max Hayman, Doug Rayment, Trinity Woodley and Courtney Lowndes.

Results

The growing Super Racer Cruiser division continues to gain momentum, having now been adopted by iconic events such as the Rolex Sydney Hobart Yacht Race and the RSYS Sydney to Newcastle Race. The division caters to larger, heavier cruiser-racers that often rate similarly to lighter race boats but excel in stronger breeze conditions.

Competing against an impressive fleet including Wild Oats X, Drumfire, Triton, Daguet 2, 51st Project, Antipodes and Caol Ila, Wine-Dark Sea consistently featured at the front of the fleet in closely fought racing throughout the regatta.

More information and updates from the campaign can be found via Wine-Dark Sea’s social channels

Photos © Promocean Media & Margaret Fraser-Martin

Allocation Alert: Savaterre Beechworth Chardonnay and Back-Vintage Pierro Chardonnay

2026-05-13T04:44:55Z

2024 Savaterre Chardonnay
Winemaker Keppell Smith chose the site to plant the vines for Savaterre in 1996. His aim was to make chardonnay made in homage to the Grand Cru wines of Burgundy, and the cellar team can see why.

The fantastic 2024 vintage was warmer and drier than usual, coming off the back of a series of cool vintages, lending this iteration of Savaterre Chardonnay a serious amount of power.

This is a wine of concentration, complexity, ageability and - if you can keep your hands off of it - collectability. There is no getting around this is a very rich chardonnay, not for the faint of heart, but immensely enjoyable and sure to paint a large smile on the face of anyone you deem lucky enough to share it with.

If you enjoy full bodied chardonnay with a healthy dose of French oak flavour, this at the apex of Australian examples in the style. As Smith famously said “there’s no such thing as an over-oaked wine, just an under-fruited one”. He is so dedicated to the craft of his chardonnay that he imports the oak barrels into Australia himself. We think he gets the balance right.

We also have available the ‘younger brother’ wine, the 2024 ‘Saveterre Frere Cadet Chardonnay’. Planted to younger vines but made in the winery in exactly the same way as the Estate and not far behind in quality. It tastes of white peaches, clotted cream, nougat and honey, but finishes dry. Take it from us: these will be your new favourite ‘special occasion’ chardonnays.

96 Points – Gary Walsh, Wine Front

2024 Savaterre Estate Chardonnay (12 bottles available only)
RRP: $135 | Member Price: $120

2024 Savaterre Frere Cadet Chardonnay (24 bottles available)
RRP: $93 | Member Price: $84

2022 Pierro VR Chardonnay
2022 Pierro VR Chardonnay, from Margaret River, is a reminder of why Pierro remains one of Australia’s benchmark producers of the style. The “VR” stands for Vineyard Reserve: this is the same Pierro Chardonnay you know and love, but with the volume turned up a few notches. The winery selected 10 of the finest barrels from their overall production and then aged the wine in bottle for 4 years for you. It is ready to drink now (although you can handle another decade if you wish).

Pierro’s chardonnay often sells out a few months after the cellar receives our allocation of the new release, so we are excited to be able to offer Members an aged iteration.
This 2022 release carries all the hallmarks members have come to expect, ripe stone fruit, lavish butteriness and an opulent lashing of French oak. The 2022 vintage brings a little extra freshness and drive, keeping the wine focused despite its richness. Powerful without feeling heavy, this is a deeply satisfying Australian Chardonnay that will reward both current drinking and further cellaring.

97 Points – Gary Walsh, Wine Front
RRP: $222 | Member Price: $198 (12 bottles available)

To order please contact on cellar@rsys.com.au or 02 9017 0121.

Jake Radowski
RSYS Sommelier

New Cellar Samplers and Value Packs

2026-05-13T04:46:07Z

New Cellar Samplers and Value Packs
Starting to feel the winter chill? We’ve put together a sampler of the cellar’s best value full‑bodied reds, perfect to enjoy by the fireplace or alongside a hearty meal.

1 x 2022 Claymore ‘Dark Side of the Moon’ Shiraz, Clare Valley SA
1 x 2016 Wykari Cabernet Sauvignon, Clare Valley SA
1 x 2022 Teusner ‘The Wark Family’ Shiraz, Barossa Valley SA
1 x 2024 Torbreck ‘Cuvée Juveniles’ GSM, Barossa Valley SA
1 x 2020 Vinteloper Touriga Nacional, Langhorne Creek SA
1 x 2021 Lorenzo Manfredi Governo Toscana, Tuscany ITL
RRP: $189 | Member Price: $167

Aged Australian Reds Sampler
Do you find young Australian reds too acidic or tannic? We’ve done the hard work of ageing or sourcing wines with at least five years of bottle age, making them perfect to open and enjoy immediately.

1 x 2018 Glenguin ‘Aristea’ Shiraz, Hunter Valley NSW
1 x 2017 Marli Russell by Mount Mary RP2 Red Blend (GSMC), Yarra Valley VIC
1 x 2015 Wykari Shiraz, Clare Valley SA
1 x 2016 Wykari Cabernet Sauvignon, Clare Valley SA
1 x 2017 Freeman ‘Secco’ Rondinella Corvina, Hilltops NSW
1 x 2021 Juxtaposed ‘Old Vine’ Grenache, McLaren Vale SA
RRP: $264 | Member Price: $231

Pinot Noir Value Pack
Good‑value pinot noir that isn’t wishy‑washy or watery can be hard to find, but we’ve sifted through the duds to bring you six of the best value bottles from Australia and abroad.

1 x 2024 Airlie Bank Estate, Yarra Valley VIC
1 x 2024 Wickham’s Road Pinot Noir, Gippsland VIC
1 x 2025 Vinteloper Estate ‘neonoir’, Adelaide Hills SA
1 x 2023 See Saw ‘Invergo’, Orange NSW
1 x 2024 Red Hut Estate, Gisborne NZL
1 x 2024 Labrune et Fils, Loire Valley FRA
RRP: $189 | Member Price: $167

Premium Australian Chardonnay Sampler
The cellar prides itself on its exceptional selection of chardonnay, inspired by members’ passion for full‑flavoured styles — something Australia does better than anywhere else in the world. Take a tour.

1 x 2024 ChaLou Estate Chardonnay, Orange NSW
1 x 2023 Garagiste ‘Merricks’ Chardonnay, Mornington Peninsula VIC
1 x 2024 Bannockburn Estate Chardonnay, Geelong VIC
1 x 2022 Ministry of Clouds Chardonnay, Adelaide Hills SA
1 x 2024 Leeuwin Estate Prelude Chardonnay, Margaret River WA
1 x 2022 Sailor Seeks Horse Chardonnay, Huon Valley TAS
RRP: $379 | Member Price: $331

Chardonnay Value Sampler
A selection of the newest, best value chardonnay additions to the cellar list from Australia, New Zealand, and France.
1 x 2023 Marnong Estate Chardonnay, Sunbury VIC
1 x 2024 Mandala Estate Chardonnay, Yarra Valley VIC
1 x 2024 Wickham’s Road ‘Yea’, Yea Valley VIC
1 x 2023 Sidewood Estate Chardonnay, Adelaide Hills SA
1 x 2024 Red Hut Chardonnay, Hawke’s Bay NZL
1 x 2024 Philippe Bouchard Chardonnay, Pays d’Oc FRA
RRP: $170 | Member Price: $149

Red Burgundy Sampler
A perfect introduction to red Burgundy (Pinot Noir), with most bottles carrying considerable age, making them ideal for drinking now.
1 x 2023 Domaine Comte Armand Bourgogne
1 x 2024 Domaine Derey Bourgogne Côte d’Or
1 x 2021 Domaine de Villaine Bourgogne Rouge
1 x 2019 Domaine Mongeard‑Mugneret ‘Les Dames Huguettes’ Côte de Nuits Bourgogne Rouge
1 x 2022 Ballot‑Millot Bourgogne Rouge
1 x 2021 Maison Henri Gouges Côte de Nuits‑Villages
RRP: $750 | Member Price: $656

To order please contact on cellar@rsys.com.au or 02 9017 0121

Jake Radowski
RSYS Sommelier

An Introduction to Burgundy

2026-05-06T01:52:56Z

New to Burgundy? Here's How it Works
Burgundy is structured around place. Much of the region’s map was shaped by Benedictine and Cistercian monks as far back as the Middle Ages. Over generations, they worked the land and observed how wines from different plots behaved. They noticed that certain slopes, soils and exposures consistently produced wines with greater depth, perfume or structure. From these observations, the foundations of today’s vineyard boundaries were formed. What we now call Village and Premier Cru sites are not arbitrary lines on a map but the result of centuries of careful farming and tasting. That is why each village carries its own distinct signature, even when made from the same grape.

AOC Bourgogne: These wines can draw fruit from a broad area across the Côte d'Or. Think of it as the producer's calling card. A Bourgogne Rouge from a great domaine is still a great domaine’s wine—just made from younger vines or broader holdings. It’s where most people should begin.

Village: These wines come from a single commune, with the village name front and centre on the label: Chambolle-Musigny, Gevrey-Chambertin, Vosne-Romanée. Each village has its own personality, shaped by soil, slope and microclimate. This is where Burgundy starts to get specific.

Premier Cru: These are individual named plots within a village that have been recognised over centuries as consistently producing superior fruit. Lower yields, better sites, more complexity. The vineyard name appears on the label alongside the village. They offer greater concentration, higher prices and longer ageing potential.

Grand Cru: The most famous vineyards in the world—Chambertin, Musigny, Romanée-Conti. These are not part of this month’s cellar feature (though available on the full list), but they are the reason the surrounding villages carry such prestige.

The key thing to remember is that the hierarchy runs from top to bottom in both quality and price. A Village wine from a serious producer often over-delivers. A Premier Cru from the right vintage and the right hands is a wine you remember. This pre-release includes both, and the newsletter cellar discount makes either a smart entry point.

CÔTE DE NUITS vs CÔTE DE BEAUNE

Burgundy’s heart is a narrow strip of vineyards called the Côte d’Or, which divides into two halves.

The Côte de Nuits (north) is home to many of the region’s most renowned red wines. This is where you find villages such as Gevrey-Chambertin, Vosne-Romanée, Chambolle-Musigny and Nuits-Saint-Georges. The focus here is Pinot Noir with more structure, depth and age‑worthiness.

The Côte de Beaune (south) is more varied. It produces some of Burgundy’s finest Chardonnay (featured next month), as well as elegant, red‑fruited Pinot Noir from villages like Volnay and Pommard. The reds here tend to be softer and more aromatic than those from the north. Though only a short drive apart, the shifts in soil, slope and exposure are enough to give each area a distinct personality in the glass.

The Wines Available

BOURGOGNE ROUGE
For all the attention given to Grand Cru and Premier Cru Burgundy, a well‑made Bourgogne Rouge is often the most honest window into what a producer truly does. These regional wines are typically blended from declassified village fruit or younger estate vines, and in the hands of the right grower they can outperform bottles at twice the price.
The Hautes‑Côtes‑de‑Nuits, meanwhile, sits just above the regional Bourgogne tier, drawing from hillside vineyards set back from the main Côte. The wines tend to show lighter, more aromatic red‑fruit character with real purity.

The names on this list - Gouges, Montille, Comte Armand and Mongeard‑Mugneret are serious domaines. Bourgogne Rouge from an estate that also makes Vosne or Nuits often carries far more than the label suggests.

2023 Henri Gouges Bourgogne Côte de Nuits Rouge
RRP: $132 | Member Price: $116

2023 Derey Bourgogne Côte d’Or Rouge
RRP: $70 | Member Price $62

2023 Comte Armand Bourgogne Rouge
RRP: $115 | Member Price: $101

2023 de Montille Bourgogne Rouge
RRP: $107 | Member Price: $94

2023 Mongeard-Mugneret Hautes-Côtes-de-Nuits ‘Les Dames Huguettes’
RRP: $130 | Member Price: $114

CHAMBOLLE-MUSIGNY
Chambolle-Musigny sits at the southern end of the Côte de Nuits and produces some of the most delicate and perfumed Pinot Noir in Burgundy. Village wines are typically pale, fine-boned and floral, with red cherry and violet sitting alongside a silky texture that sets Chambolle apart from its neighbours. The two offerings here give you both vintages side by side. The 2022 Confuron-Cotetidot is from a domaine known for very low yields and long, traditional maceration times, while the 2023 Pousse d'Or reflects a village that performed particularly well in that cooler, more structured year.

2022 Confuron-Cotetidot Chambolle-Musigny Rouge
RRP: $192 | Member Price $168

2023 La Pousse d’Or Chambolle-Musigny Rouge
RRP: $302 | Member Price: $265

GEVREY-CHAMBERTIN
If Chambolle is Burgundy's most elegant village, Gevrey-Chambertin is its most powerful. Home to Chambertin and eight other Grand Crus, the village sits at the northern tip of the Côte de Nuits and produces wines built on dark fruit, firm tannin and real structural muscle. Village Gevrey is already a serious wine, one that needs time and rewards patience Both Confuron-Cotetidot and Mongeard-Mugneret carry strong reputations in this village, and the price difference between the two reflects the complexity and age-worthiness that comes with Mongeard's older vine profile and winemaking approach. These are wines to buy and forget about for a while.

2022 Confuron-Cotetidot Gevrey-Chambertin Rouge
RRP: $192 | Member Price: $168

2023 Mongeard-Mugneret Gevrey-Chambertin Rouge
RRP: $376 | Member Price: $329

NUITS-SAINT-GEORGES
Nuits-Saint-Georges is the only major village on the Côte de Nuits without a Grand Cru, but it more than compensates with some of the most characterful village and Premier Cru wines in the region. The wines tend toward earthiness and structure, with a savoury quality and dark fruit that makes them excellent long-term cellaring candidates. Village Nuits can take five to ten years to fully open, depending on the producer and the vintage, but your patience will be repaid with some of the most deliciously savoury burgundies from the whole region.

2022 Confuron-Cotetidot Nuits-Saint-Georges Rouge
RRP: $192 | Member Price: $168

2022 Henri Gouges Nuit-St-Georges ‘Les Chaignots’ Rouge
RRP: $287 | Member Price: $251

VOLNAY - PREMIER CRU
Volnay sits on the Côte de Beaune and produces Pinot Noir of a very different character to the Côte de Nuits villages above. Where Gevrey gives power and Nuits gives earth, Volnay gives grace. The wines are lighter in colour, finer in tannin and tend toward red cherry, rose and a texture that is almost weightless, but not without concentation of flavour.

The Clos de la Bousse d'Or is one of Pousse d'Or's monopole Premier Cru vineyards, meaning the domaine owns the site in full. It is one of the reference points of the appellation. The 2023, from a vintage that brought freshness and structure to the Côte de Beaune in particular, is a wine to put away and return to in five to eight years.

2023 Domaine de La Pousse d’Or ‘Clos de la Bousse’ 1er Cru Volnay Rouge
RRP: $343 | Member Price: $301

Jake Radowski
RSYS Sommelier

Brooke Wilson & Evie Haseldine launch their LA 2028 Campaign

2026-04-29T03:24:56Z

RSYS Member Brooke Wilson writes, 'Evie and I formed our partnership at the end of 2024 and have just completed the first two Grand Slam events of our European season, the Trofeo Princesa Sofia in Palma and the Semaine Olympique Française in Hyères, marking a solid start to our LA 2028 Olympic campaign.

Both regattas presented varied conditions, which proved invaluable at this stage of our preparation. In Palma, our primary focus was developing our starting playbooks across a range of conditions and benchmarking ourselves against the international fleet. Hyères continued that process. We faced some challenging light air early in the week that we improved on considerably as racing progressed, which was an encouraging sign. The regatta also delivered 20-plus knots and a significant sea state that presented some important boat handling challenges and lessons we will carry forward.

We are currently travelling to Quiberon for the World Championships in mid-May. We are on a steep learning curve and are looking forward to putting together some of our strongest racing to date as the campaign continues to build.

We would like to express our sincere gratitude to all those who have supported us this year. We are proud to represent the Royal Sydney Yacht Squadron on the world stage in the women's Olympic skiff class and look forward to keeping members updated as the season progresses.'

Our aspiring Olympians compete in Hyères, France

2026-04-29T02:22:26Z

Coach Jim Colley with Laura and Annie CREDIT Sailing Energy

Racing for Olympic classes has moved to Hyères, France.

A fixture on the international calendar for more than half a century, French Olympic Week is one of the sport’s most respected testing grounds. Set on the Bay of Hyères in the Mediterranean, the regatta is renowned for its range of conditions from the powerful Mistral and strong easterly winds to light seabreezes.

Jack Ferguson and Jack Hilderbrand

Hundreds of sailors from more than 50 nations across all 10 Olympic classes. Australia is strongly represented, with 43 entries preparing to take to the start line.

RSYS Member Annie Wilmot and her skipper Laura Harding finished second overall in the 49erFx fleet.
Read more

RSYS Members racing include:
49erFx: Annie Wilmot, Brooke Wilson
49er: Max Paul, Otto Henry, Jack Ferguson
ICLA6: Sylvie Stannage

See the results

Facebook video with 49er sailor Max Paul

Olivia Lee selected for Australian Sailing Youth Squad 2026

2026-04-29T00:39:01Z

RSYS Youth Member Olivia Lee was recently announced as a member of the 2026 Australian Sailing National Youth Squad. Olivia is sailing in the International 420 class with Aaveer Patil-Chaudhari (RPAYC).

The squad has just had three days down at the Australian Institute of Sport (AIS) in Canberra offering sailors a firsthand introduction to a high-performance environment and the standards required to succeed at the next level.

Olivia and Aaveer will be heading over to Europe to contest the 420 World Championships. This is preparation for the 2026 Youth Sailing World Championships that will be held from 11–19 December 2026 in Vilamoura, Portugal.

Read more from Australian Sailing

Honouring service through Sailing: ANZAC Challenge 2026

2026-04-25T13:31:10Z

Royal Sydney Yacht Squadron had the privilege of hosting the ANZAC Challenge, a special sailing regatta that brought together crews from across the Australian Defence community for a day of competition, camaraderie, and connection on Sydney Harbour.

Representing a broad cross-section of service and experience, crews included the Saltwater Veterans, Australian Defence Force Academy, Army, Navy, and Air Force. At the heart of the event was the Saltwater Veterans Sailing Project, an inspiring initiative dedicated to supporting current and former Australian Defence Force members and their families through sailing and water-based activities.

The regatta was conducted by RSYS Academy Manager Dan Smith, whose leadership ensured a smooth and enjoyable day on the water. Conditions were ideal, with a gentle south-easterly breeze of less than 10 knots and clear, sunny skies providing a perfect backdrop. Racing took place just off the clubhouse, offering a spectacular view for those watching from ashore.

Behind the scenes, race officials Nicholas Hogg, David Flakelar and Nina Flakelar, alongside Dan Smith, ensured fair and efficient racing throughout the event.

After a closely contested series, the Saltwater Veterans crew emerged as overall winners, a fitting result given their strong connection to the spirit of the regatta. The Australian Defence Force Academy secured runner-up honours on countback, highlighting just how tight the competition was.

The ANZAC Challenge was more than just a regatta. It was a celebration of service, teamwork, and the unique ability of sailing to bring people together, both on and off the water.
See the results

RSYS Yachts Compete in Sail Port Stephens

2026-04-23T01:08:39Z

Four Royal Sydney Yacht Squadron yachts took part in the 19th edition of Sail Port Stephens 2026, joining an impressive fleet of 125 yachts from 11 clubs competing across five divisions in the Commodore’s Cup passage series.

Sailing was conducted in beautiful conditions, with generally favourable breezes across two offshore courses around the nearby islands and three varied inshore courses.

The Squadron was well represented by:
Mittere (Scott Lawson) – Division 1
Peregrine (Jeffrey Hughes) – Division 2
Kelsea Blue (Adrian Williams) – Division 3
Hector (Bertrand Philippe) – Division 4

Results across the fleet were mixed, with a standout performance from Kelsea Blue, finishing an impressive 3rd place in Division 3 on countback.

Well done to all Squadron members who took part!
See the results

A Perfect Pittwater Escape

2026-04-21T05:10:58Z

The Squadron Cruise to Pittwater, delivered a week that could only be described as postcard-perfect. The fleet basked in idyllic autumn conditions; clear skies, gentle breezes, and that unmistakable calm that settles over the water when everything aligns just right.

Sunday 12 April stood out as the most spirited day on the water, with a fresh 17 knots from the west adding a welcome burst of energy. Sails were trimmed a little tighter, boats found their stride, and crews enjoyed some lively sailing; an exciting contrast to the otherwise gentle conditions that defined the week.

Days then returned to an easy rhythm. Mornings brought glassy anchorages and the promise of another stunning day ahead, while afternoons saw crews exploring, socialising, and enjoying all that the cruise had to offer. Laughter carried across the water, friendships deepened, and the simple pleasure of being afloat in such conditions was not lost on anyone.

As the week drew to a close, the final inshore race reflected the softer side of the weather. With barely a breath of wind, the race was ultimately abandoned; a fitting reminder that even in perfect weeks, the elements still have the final say.

Attention then turned to the offshore race home on Saturday 18 April. In contrast to the stillness of the previous day, a modest 16 knots from the south-southwest greeted the fleet, noticeably lighter than forecast. Only four boats took on the passage, enjoying a more measured and tactical sail back, rather than the boisterous conditions many had anticipated.

While the racing may not have delivered drama in the traditional sense, the cruise itself was an undeniable success. Perfect weather, great company, and a shared appreciation for time on the water ensured this year’s Squadron Cruise will be remembered as one of those rare occasions when everything simply fell into place.

Read all the Cruise News

International Women’s Day at RSYS

2026-04-16T03:19:36Z

On Friday 6 March, RSYS recognised International Women’s Day with over 100 Members and guests coming together to celebrate women at the Club and all those who contribute to our vibrant Squadron community.
International Women’s Day celebrates the achievements of women everywhere and raises awareness of gender equity. In these uncertain times, we are seeing the erosion of human rights in some of the world’s most developed nations, with flow‑on effects that intensify the already overwhelming challenges faced by women and girls at the most vulnerable end of life’s spectrum.

A Legacy of Women at the Squadron
Vice Commodore Karyn Gojnich shared some history of the integral role of women at the Squadron. When RSYS was founded in 1862, there were 19 men listed on the Foundation document, united by a common purpose embedded in the Club’s Constitution: to promote and encourage yachting and boating generally, and yacht racing in particular.

One of the Squadron’s earliest female sailors, Miss Sheila Patrick, was born in 1917. She first found her sea legs on Bona, a style of boat still seen in photographs around the Club, before going on to race competitively in 12‑foot skiffs and eventually owning her own 18‑foot Jubilee class boat, Southwind. Determined to prove her worth in a male‑dominated arena, Sheila taught herself every aspect of boat repair and management. She joined the Squadron as an Associate Member in 1949 and, as a journalist, helped to establish the popular Seacraft magazine.

Sheila married Squadron Member Tony Cohen in 1952. She continued to work, raise two children and race competitively with a number of clubs, including RSYS and the Cruising Yacht Club of Australia (CYCA). An RSYS Member to the end, the Squadron’s Annual Report noted the passing of “Sheila Elizabeth Patrick Cohen” in 1994, and her sailing legacy lives on in the many determined female racers who take to the harbour today.

Sheila did not live to see the 1996 decision to abolish Associate membership and, by 2002, the introduction of full Metropolitan membership for women. In 2001, in recognition of her sailing achievements and the growing appreciation of women in the sport, the Associates Committee of the CYCA created the Sheila Patrick Memorial Trophy for women who have completed the Sydney Hobart Yacht Race at least 10 times.

Growing Women’s Membership and Participation
When we first celebrated International Women’s Day at the Club in 2021, women Members made up around 30% of total membership. Our challenge then, as now, was to grow women’s membership and deepen their engagement with all aspects of Squadron life.

This year, we have 959 women Members, representing 34.4% of total membership, and are seeing growth in the number of women sailing and owning boats. The Club also has a very strong cohort of women enjoying Bridge, and over 100 Members are already involved in our newly established Ladies of the Sea Professional Network group.

On the water, recent results highlight the strength of women’s sailing at RSYS. In late February, the Club’s inaugural SheSails RS Feva Sailing Clinic for Girls took place and our RSYS team finished 3rd in the New Zealand Women’s Match Racing Championship. Additionally, our mixed Match Racing Squad, featuring Katina Casimaty and Jemma Hopkins, won the 2026 Toyota Youth International Match Racing Cup in New Zealand — the first time RSYS has ever lifted the trophy in the event’s 36‑year history.
Inspiring Voices at the Breakfast
The International Women’s Day breakfast featured an inspiring panel moderated by Member Susan Metcalf. The panellists generously shared their stories, experiences and insights:
Angelica Veness – championing innovation, diversity and inclusion
Edwina Waddy – leading with creativity and influence
Catriona Dixon – mastering communication and personal brand
Coming from very different worlds — technology, film and journalism — the panellists were united by a shared purpose: encouraging more women to share their voices and shape the future for generations to come.

Themes that resonated included:
The strategic power of storytelling in shaping influence and opportunity
The importance of building a strong network/community of supporters and sponsors, finding your allies, mentors and champions — and making sure you do the same for others
The need for representation and diversity at every level
Our responsibility to help young girls build confidence early and pursue ambitious paths
The reality that Artificial Intelligence will increasingly shape our world, and the need to ensure women are not left behind in its rapid take‑up — helping the AI‑cautious become AI‑curious, and ensuring these tools reflect a broad range of perspectives rather than a narrow few

A Call to Champion Women
The morning closed with a simple challenge to the audience: take the time to recognise one woman who has lifted you up, inspired you or helped you move forward. Progress rarely happens alone; it happens when women and allies actively champion women.

It was a wonderful and energising way to mark International Women’s Day at RSYS — honouring our history, celebrating our present, and looking ahead to an increasingly inclusive future on and off the water.

A Dazzling Celebration at the Annual Cruise on Hallets Beach

2026-04-12T21:45:32Z

Chris Sturrock writes, 'What a fun-filled get together to mark the start of the 56th Squadron Cruise.

Tiaras and flowing caftans everywhere and the guys didn’t disappoint either with bow ties and dinner shirts coupled with their Okanui shorts (some even wore their tailored dinner jackets).

The sausage sizzle lived up to expectations with the Cruise Committee Members in full swing feeding the starving sailors. It was a great night enjoyed by all.'

Photos by Anne Richardson & Rene Chapman

Catch up on all the news from the Cruise here.