CALENDAR
BOOK A TABLE
CLUB NEWS
RQTV
WEATHER STATION
FUEL PRICES
CONTACT US
This post will serve as a continuous and live update log for all relevant news pertaining to the COVID-19 pandemic and its subsequent effects on the Royal Queensland Yacht Squadron.
#25 – Wednesday 01/07/2020
At 12 noon on Friday 3 July the eased restrictions will mean we will be able to have one person for each 4 square metres in our Bar and Café areas. Members and guests will also be permitted to go to the Bar.
Initially our Bar Menu and Takeaway will be available pending the opening of our Café and Restaurant in the days following. We will keep you informed of these exciting changes as soon as we are able.
#24 – Wednesday 03/06/2020
Great news, WAGS will be back next week thanks to an earlier than anticipated easing in COVID restrictions! There will be a few changes to begin with and, as the easing across Queensland progresses, there will be more to come. Your continued patience and support during this period will be greatly appreciated.
In the initial stage, WAGS will be delivered as a training exercise. We will not be scoring or keeping results and therefore daily presentations will not be held. As such there will be no charge for WAGS Training. The sailing instructions will still be adhered to for all formalities of the event except for the adaptations outlined in this announcement. Please continue to sign on via Channel 72 from 11am where you will receive a suggested start time and so we can monitor participants for safety reasons. Start times will be one hour earlier in the hope of wind and daylight. We are unable to receive sign-ons in the Bar at this stage however takeaway food and beverage are still available for purchase.
During the WAGS training sessions, we will be running a combined course for the monohulls and multihulls. Please watch out for other boats, the col regs and racing rules of sailing should still be applied. Remember this is a friendly training activity, not a competition.
As it stands the social distancing rules remain whilst sailing. We are expecting a relaxation on this before the WAGS Training commencement and will keep you informed via Facebook and In The Wind, as this progresses. We are working hard with Australian Sailing to gain further relaxations, and are doing our best to get back to sailing whilst adhering to the current restrictions.
Thank you again for your patience and support, if you have any questions please do not hesitate to contact Todd Anderson, Paul Bolton or Katy Jones.
#23 – Friday 22/05/2020
Read the latest Maritime Safety Queensland daily update: MSQ UPDATE 102
#22 – Thursday 21/05/2020
We are excited to announce the reopening of our hospitality services, albeit in a reduced capacity and strictly adhering to health guidelines and social distancing. From this Saturday, and every Friday – Sunday thereafter, the Boardwalk Takeaway will be offering a selection of food and drink for members to enjoy. VIEW MENU
Times are as follows:
Friday 12pm – 6pm
Saturday 11am – 6pm
Sunday 11am – 6pm
#21 – Thursday 21/05/2020
Please follow the current sailing guidelines to ensure our Squadron remains a COVID-safe environment:
- Please maintain 1.5m social distancing and hand hygiene throughout your visit.
- No more than 10 people per rigging lawn at a time.
- “Get in, Sail, Get out” Please be respectful of others and keep time on lawns to a minimum. Where possible please arrive ready to sail and use your showers at home.
- Spectators, please avoid being on the lawns where possible.
Our volunteer team will be on hand to assist with abiding by these guidelines and keep a smooth flow of traffic.
#20 – Friday 15/05/2020
Read the latest Maritime Safety Queensland daily update: MSQ UPDATE 101
#19 – Monday 11/05/2020
Dear Members
Please find the link to the latest QLD Government Roadmap to Easing Queensland’s Restrictions below as well as the latest MSQ Update.
#18 – Friday 01/05/2020
The latest MSQ Update features many changes, including to Recreational Boating as some restrictions have been eased. Read it here: MSQ UPDATE 99
*Please note that MSQ updates have now been moved from daily to weekly on Fridays.
#17 – Monday 27/04/2020
Restrictions on Queenslanders will ease as of Saturday May 2. Please see the below infographic for specific information on the changes and see the linked below to helpful articles relating to them as well.
Media Statement from Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk
#16 – Thursday 23/04/2020
Read the latest Maritime Safety Queensland daily update: UPDATE 96
#15 – Thursday 09/04/2020
This is an excerpt relating to recreational boating taken directly from MSQ’s latest COVID-19 update, the full of which you can read HERE.
Dear maritime colleagues,
Each evening Maritime Safety Queensland (MSQ) emails stakeholders to provide an update on COVID-19 and its impacts on the maritime industry.
Any new daily advice is highlighted in bold – please be aware the situation does change daily, so MSQ will continue to provide the most up-to-date advice every evening.
MSQ’s current directions and vessel reporting statistics, as well as the last five daily updates, can be found on the MSQ website.
Queensland’s Chief Health Officer has been very clear – if you don’t need to be out then stay ashore, stay home. People should be undertaking essential boating only, in their local area, ensuring that social distancing guidelines are applied.
Please be aware all agencies and rescue groups are following the Chief Health Officer directions within their own work areas. All emergencies will be dealt with as a matter of priority but less urgent incidents may potentially take longer to respond to. Volunteer marine rescue organisations and MSQ continue to provide a marine distress emergency radio watch on marine VHF channels 16 and 67.
Skippers are always responsible for the safety of their boat and the people on board. This includes trip planning, having the appropriate safety equipment, keeping a proper look out, proceeding at a safe speed.
Skippers are advised to notify a family member or close friend of their trip, including the route they intend to take, their destination and an estimated time of return; with instructions to call 000 if they do not return within a given period.
In this pandemic, MSQ asks skippers to be responsible, support the Chief Health Officer and help stop the spread of COVID-19.
Some essential reasons you may need to use your boat could be to:
1. exercise (e.g. kayaking/sailing/paddling etc);
2. fish;
3. get to and from work, where the work cannot reasonably be performed from home;
4. get groceries; and
5. provide assistance, care or support to an immediate member of the person’s family.
Social distancing rules always apply – at the boat ramp and on your boat.
Unless you have an essential need to be out – stay ashore, stay home.
If you do need to go out, stick to your local waters.
MSQ has deployed temporary signage across a number of key areas providing advice to the recreational boating community. This includes marinas, state boat harbours and highly frequented boat ramps. Signage will continue to be deployed across the state at public marine facilities in coming days.
All four Maritime authorities (MSQ, QPS, B&F and Marine Parks) will be conducting patrols throughout the waterways within Sunshine Coast, Moreton Bay, Pumicestone Passage, Southern Bay Islands and Gold Coast waterways over the Easter weekend to ensure boaties are complying with all relevant marine legislation and the Chief Health Officer’s directives.
Boaties are reminded that a number of entities have put specific restrictions in place for their areas.
- Seqwater has announced that, as from 26 March, all recreation areas at Seqwater-managed lakes and parks are closed until further notice.
- Commencing 31 March, Sunwater has also closed access to all Sunwater managed recreational areas, including dams, lakes and weirs.
- Department of Environment and Science has announced the closure of all camping areas within Queensland National Parks, state forests and recreational areas, while governments have placed restrictions on access to some remote and indigenous communities
I can also confirm that State Government boat ramps are open.
Keep safe,
Angus Mitchell
General Manager (Maritime Safety Queensland)
Department of Transport and Main Roads
#14 – Monday 6/04/2020
MSQ update and FAQ
MSQ currently email updates on a regular basis, however they are not always posted on their website. We encourage members to subscribe directly to the MSQ updates – Subscribe
#12 – Wednesday 1/04/2020
Fishing and essential boat use to continue
There has today been an update of the MSQ post relating to vessel use and essential reasons (now including sailing as exercise in addition to yesterday’s update including fishing); We are continuing to work with our Industry Associations in the very best interests of our members, their families and the community. Please find the most recent releases from the State Government to inform your vessel usage intentions:
Important Joint Update from BIA and MIA Regarding Boating Activity
Non-essential business, activity and undertaking Closure Direction (No.4) _ Queensland Health
#13 – Monday 23/03/2020
Marina and Slipway remain open
Your marina management and team remain alert and proactive to the dynamic changes relating to COVID-19. We are monitoring all advice and recommendations from Official Health Bodies and adjusting our work practices accordingly.
The slipway continues to operate at full capacity, and we welcome any members to book ahead as we are currently experiencing an increase in bookings. We still have a small number of rental berths available in varying sizes.
In line with business expectations, we are operating with a smaller team than usual and we appreciate your patience and understanding when responding to enquiries.
We have received many questions relating to marina access. Members can access the marina using their member swipe card. At all times we will be guided by government recommendations and consider the safety of all members and staff. If you have questions relating vessel access and deliveries, please email the marina team and we will advise accordingly.
#12 – Monday 23/03/2020
Discontinuation of all non-essential gatherings
We would like to thank all members for their continued patience, support and understanding during these challenging times. We continue to monitor and implement the advice and requirements of Official Health Bodies.
As you are no doubt aware, the Prime Minister Scott Morrison announced yesterday that restrictions on social gatherings would be increased to “Stage 1″. Details of the announcement are below.
Current considerations
- Following the decision made last night at National Cabinet, the Squadron Club House will remain closed until further notice.
- Members are, of course, welcome to use the facilities including Marina, Hardstand, Ramps and Fuel. Please observe Queensland Health guidelines in relation to hygiene, distancing, etc.
- Canaipa remains open and available to members as usual.
- Reception will be open from 0730 – 1700, 7 days per week.
- During this quieter time at the Squadron, we have increased security and ask members to look out for each other as well as member and Squadron assets. The main gates (vehicle and pedestrian) will be closed 1800 – 0600, 7 days per week.
- Please check our website for RQYS and Queensland Health updates on COVID19 https://www.rqys.com.au/
Places of social gathering
The Prime Minister, state and territory Premiers and Chief Ministers met on 22 March 2020 as the National Cabinet. They agreed to further actions to support social distancing measures already put in place and protect the Australian community from the spread of coronavirus.
National Cabinet agreed to move to more widespread restrictions on social gatherings.
Premiers and Chief Ministers agreed to implement, through state and territory laws, new Stage 1 restrictions on social gatherings, to be reviewed on a monthly basis.
Australians should expect these measures to be in place for at least 6 months.
The following facilities will be restricted from opening from midday local time 23 March 2020:
- Pubs, registered and licenced clubs (excluding bottle shops attached to these venues), hotels (excluding accommodation)
- Gyms and indoor sporting venues
- Cinemas, entertainment venues, casinos, and night clubs
- Restaurants and cafes will be restricted to takeaway and/or home delivery
- Religious gatherings, places of worship or funerals (in enclosed spaces and other than very small groups and where the 1 person per 4 square metre rule applies).
Full announcement can be found here
#11 – Friday 20/03/2020
With stunning weather forecast all weekend, we encourage you to enjoy our hospitality and take advantage of Squadron facilities.
Below you will find updated operating hours and the new menu that will begin Monday 23 March.
We continue to monitor the current health emergency and implement requirements as required. Today Prime Minister Scott Morrison announced increased social distancing for inside events, requiring a minimum of 4m2 per person. We ask you to remain vigilant and aware of the space around you.
Due to Covid-19 potentially remaining active on a surface for 9 days, we will be implementing increased safety measures, further protecting our members and their guests. As of Monday 23 March, the Squadron strongly encourages all visitors to consider paying by debit card, credit card or member charge only.
We thank you for your understanding and patience during these challenging times, and look forward to seeing you at the club.
#10 – Friday 20/03/2020
Special Industry Alert – New social distance requirements for immediate implementation
Prime Minister Scott Morrison has announced a new indoor gathering limit for Australians.
There is now a four square metre rule per person for gatherings of less than 100 people.
“What we are now moving to is an arrangement for gatherings of less than 100, is that they would be four square metres provided per person in an enclosed space, in a room. So that’s 2m by 2m,” he said. “So for example, if you’ve got a room, if you’ve got a premises, if you’ve got a meeting room or something like that, that’s 100 square metres, then you can have 25 people in that room.”
“I know these rules will take some time for people to get used to, but I would ask people to move as quickly as they can.” said the Prime Minister
To assist members and their guest to understand how these restrictions apply to the Squadron, please view the Cafe Floor Plan
#9 – Friday 20/03/2020
From the General Manager
Dear Members,
Thank you for your continued support and consideration during this challenging time. We hope to see you at the club this weekend, using the facilities, enjoying a meal and taking to the water. Current considerations include:
- The Squadron is open 7 days a week.
- Members are, of course, welcome to use the facilities including Marina, Hardstand, Rigging Lawns, Ramps, Fuel and Hospitality every day. Please observe Queensland Health guidelines in relation to hygiene, distancing, etc. https://www.qld.gov.au/health/conditions/health-alerts/coronavirus-covid-19
- Reception and the Merchandise store are open and available for trade 7 days a week and to allow access to contractors from 8am.
- Canaipa remains open and available to members as usual.
- We draw all members attention to Government requirements which at present restrict indoor gatherings to 100 people and a minimum 4m2 per person.
- During this quieter time at the Squadron, we have increased security and ask members to look out for each other as well as member and Squadron assets.
- Adjusted times and menus for our hospitality operations will be posted shortly on the website.
#8 – Wednesday 18/03/2020
Dear Members,
Last Night, the RQYS General Committee met with the General Manager to implement significant measures in the face of the COVID-19 pandemic. As we all understand, without immediate changes in the way our Squadron and activities are conducted, we unduly risk our Members, Staff and family as well as the security of the Squadron. We are following all advice and requirements of Official Health Bodies.
Today, our General Manager outlined these changes, including a cancellation of the remainder of the Sailing Season, Academy activities,. Associated services at the Club will be affected. We will modify these changes as we move through this period of stress, which we are all suffering.
I have been approached and contacted by many Members, who are extremely supportive and understanding that we must be totally committed to not take this lightly. You will notice that most major Clubs have taken similar action. We will bounce back – as long as we all maintain our support for each other and the Squadron as our proud home.
Your Commodore,
Captain Barry Cuneo
#7 – Wednesday 18/03/2020
Further to last night’s update relating to the Squadron’s response to the current COVID-19 situation, we advise revised Squadron operating hours and services:
- The Squadron is open 7 days a week.
- Members are, of course, welcome to use the facilities including Marina, Hardstand, Rigging Lawns, Ramps, Fuel and Hospitality every day. Please observe Queensland Health guidelines in relation to hygiene, distancing, etc. https://www.qld.gov.au/health/conditions/health-alerts/coronavirus-covid-19
- Our Hospitality services are open 7 days a week 8.30am until close. We have adjusted our menus and service levels and will continue to monitor the current circumstances and adapt. Please support your club and we appreciate your patience. It would be good to see you here.
- Reception and the Merchandise store are open and available for trade 7 days a week and to allow access to contractors from 8am.
- Canaipa remains open and available to members as usual.
- Please check our website for RQYS and Queensland Health updates on COVID-19: https://www.rqys.com.au/
- We draw all members attention to Government requirements which at present restrict indoor gatherings to 100 people and advise increased vigilance around hygiene and social distancing.
- During this quieter time at the Squadron, we have increased security and ask members to look out for each other as well as member and Squadron assets.
The following operational areas of our Squadron are postponed until further notice:
- Remainder of the Sailing Season (including Saturday and Sunday racing as well as WAGS)
- Sailing Academy
- Regattas
- Aquatic Events (including organised power and sail cruising events)
- Significant Member functions (such as the End of Season Sailing Party, Easter Family Fun Day etc.).
Our people will continue to staff all operational areas, on a reduced basis in line with requirements and demand.
We thank our members in advance for your patience and support, and encourage you to continue to enjoy your Squadron and to keep mucking around in boats.
#6 – Wednesday 18/03/2020
The Family Easter Day event that was to be held on Sunday 5 April has been postponed. This decision has been made due to the restrictions on crowds at our venue and the safety of our members during this time.
#5 – Tuesday 17/03/2020
From the General Manager
The General Committee has met this evening and has taken the decision based on the current COVID-19 situation, to postponed until further notice the following:
- WAGS
- Remainder of the Sailing Season
- Sailing Academy
- Regattas
- Aquatic Events (including organised power and sail cruising events).
Our people will continue to staff all operational areas, at times on a reduced basis.
An update on all RQYS services including Bar, Café, Restaurant and Club opening times will follow tomorrow.
The Marina, Slipway and Hardstand remain fully operational at this time.
We thank our members in advance for their patience and support.
#4 – Tuesday 17/03/2020
From the General Manager
This Instagram video was recorded on Sunday by Alex Choudary who is the Head of Infectious Diseases in Qld., based at the Prince Charles Hospital at Chermside in Brisbane. He is also on the National Pandemic Task Force.
https://www.instagram.com/tv/B9v1rysATY2/?igshid=1bc6dxi0yybgk
#3 – Tuesday 17/03/2020
The following two members events have been postponed: 50 Year Members Luncheon and Past Commodores Lunch.
#2 – Tuesday 17/03/2020
The General Manager would like to share with members the latest information on self-quarantine: https://www.qld.gov.au/health/conditions/health-alerts/coronavirus-covid-19/take-action/self-quarantine.
#1 – Sunday 15/03/2020
The world health situation is very real, so we have taken some basic action to ensure RQYS remains a healthy and safe environment for members, staff and visitors.
The cleaners will sanitise all “high touch points” daily, these include door handles and plates, the members bar top, table-tops and benches in the members bar and various other points. Additional sanitation cleans will be carried out throughout the Squadron.
Due to the severity and changing circumstances of the Global virus, operations at RQYS will adjust as necessary to ensure the safety of our Members and guests.
Please continue to enjoy your boating and coming to the club, however if you have travelled or been in contact with anyone who has flu like symptoms please seek medical advice before you do.
The links below are to the Queensland Government Coronavirus website which is a useful source of information:
QLD Health – Everything you need to know
QLD Government – Advice
Related Articles
From Tricky Shifts to Strong Southerlies: VIC States 2023 and Sail Melbourne 2023
VIC States 2023 was sailed in typical Melbourne weather which called into question the sun’s existence. This weekend had a record number of entries, with 109 lasers competing over all […]
Schools Racing – Team Iona White outperforms long-standing champions
Day 1 of Term 4 Schools Teams racing defied the gloomy forecast, delivering a thrilling day of sailing action. The rain turned out to be a blessing in disguise, taming […]
RQYS Triumphs in Goodwill Cup 2023, Hawaiian Shirts and All!”
Goodwill Cup Navigation Event secured by RQYS for 2023! Now, let’s take a moment for some well-deserved gloating about winning back the highly sought-after trophy in the enduring rivalry since […]