Marine marketing background on show Amplifying shared successes and achievements in a Club environment that is both prestigious and inclusive. I hope this message finds you all in great health and high spirits, greets Sean Allen (who finds himself in need of a boat). As your Marketing and Communications Manager, I’m excited to fill you in on recent happenings and share my vision for the future of our awesome Club. So, in the few months since I took on this role, I’ve been fully immersed in the yachting scene — and, let me tell you, it’s been a blast. Getting to know many of you has been a highlight, and I’ve gained a deeper understanding of what makes the Squadron so unique. While I’m still a bit of a newbie when it comes to sailing, my lifelong love for the water has been a guiding force. Growing up on the east coast of New Zealand, my weekends were all about fishing, dragging nets, diving, hunting, and the occasional surf. Moving to the Sunshine Coast in my teens only deepened my passion for the water. Living at Marcus Beach, I got into the routine of surfing before school, during school for sports, and post-school adventures in Noosa National Park. Over the past decade, my professional journey has been dedicated to the marine industry. I’ve proudly served as the National Marketing Manager for The Haines Group, Suzuki Marine, and BLA, gaining a wealth of knowledge and a deep appreciation for the maritime world. Joining RQYS during this exciting lead-up to the events of 2032 is a massive honour. The prospect of working with some of the country’s most accomplished water enthusiasts is not only exciting but also invigorating. I’m committed to contributing to the continued success and growth of our Club. On a personal note, I’m pretty keen to learn to sail! — and look forward to getting out on the water for WAGS: I just need a boat! My overarching goal as your Marketing and Communications Manager is to amplify our collective achievements, celebrate your sailing successes, and foster an environment within our Club that is not only prestigious but also inclusive. In the limited time I’ve been involved with the Club, I’m proud to share some significant achievements. Working collaboratively with our dedicated team leaders, we’ve successfully launched the revamped RQYS website. This online platform is envisaged to be the primary source for information, stories, and events exclusive to our esteemed Members. While the website remains a work in progress, it is designed to evolve with the changing needs of our community. An additional enhancement includes a new ITW layout that directs users seamlessly to featured articles on the website. Aligned with our commitment to providing an exceptional Member experience, I’ve worked closely with the House, Marketing, and Events Committee, as well as The Consortium Queensland and Membership Committee, to restructure the Member birthday offering. The result is a more personalised and thoughtful approach, featuring bespoke birthday cards, vouchers, and a carefully selected bottle of wine for members to enjoy in the comfort of their homes (or boats!). As we look forward to 2024, I anticipate the Squadron to continue being a beacon of pride within the sailing community — a Club that not only celebrates the achievements of its Members but also passionately supports the development of our emerging sailors. Furthermore, it is my aspiration that we continue to share our unparalleled venue, spirit, and love for the water with a broader audience. I extend my sincere gratitude for the warm welcome I have received thus far. It is a privilege to serve as your Marketing and Communications Manager, and I am enthusiastic about the opportunities that lie ahead for our Royal Queensland Yacht Squadron. Cheers to exciting times on and off the water! n Royal Queensland Yacht Squadron Yearbook Mainsheet 2023 23 Marketing Communications Manager’s report
RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy Mzg4Mjk=