Instead, let’s let Margy Porter have the last words, for now, in the fervent hope that they amplify inspiration for our readers to volunteer at RQYS: " Why do I volunteer at RQYS? Around 12 years ago, I decided I wanted to learn how to sail. ‘Ladies’ Thursday Afternoon Go Sailing’ and ‘Saturday Go Sailing’ run by Adrian Finglas soon followed. “Friendships are still strong from those days. My friend in those classes, Margurite, was already volunteering with RQYS, and she asked if I would like to participate in volunteering by coming out on the Start boat. Duties included flags, timing, finishing, etc, and at first I found it all rather difficult. But I persevered and ended up becoming proficient in these duties — and I am still learning! “Although at times things can get a little intense on the start boat, we still manage to have a lot of laughs all the same ... like the time I was doing the countdown to a race start and accidentally nodded-off at six seconds out ... enough said on that one! “As my love for sailing grew, I eagerly put my hand up to crew on yachts for WAGS, the Hamilton Island Yacht Race and RQYS regattas. Aside from volunteering, I ventured out and, with Margurite, actually bought an Etchell, which we christened “Tumba Rumba.” Over the years we have had many races and fun times with the Etchells fleet. “I now have my Skipper’s Licence and done the full circle back to volunteering and helming for OTB and RQ regattas." n Volunteer Co-ordinator Phil Tooth invites you to discover for yourself some of the many benefits in giving back to our Squadron — email him at: volunteers@rqys.com.au Royal Queensland Yacht Squadron Yearbook Mainsheet 2024 61 Connect with our incredible Volunteers
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