In 2021, Royal Freshwater Bay Yacht Club (RFBYC) experienced a rise in female participation from younger age groups; a shift from the influx of “Over 30s” in the previous year. This rise is reflective of the quality of the Club’s programmes aimed at female sailing introduction, tuition and participation at all levels. The Dinghy and Training Centre and its Sailing Pathways Program played a significant role in making sailing more accessible and credit must go to the Club’s coaches, trainers and instructors for their hard work.

Male membership numbers rose substantially in the Under 16, 21–24, 31 to 36+ and Associate groups. A moderate reduction was experienced in the 16–17 and 18–20 groups. Numbers were static in the 25–27, 28–30, Country, Reciprocal and Special groups.

Female membership numbers rose substantially in the Under 16, 21–24, 36+, and Associate groups. Growth was static in the 25–27, 28–30, 31–35, Country, Reciprocal and Special groups.

The Club held eight New Member Nights in 2020-21 including a Youth “Transition to Ordinary Membership” night, celebrated in the Members’ Bar where 23 youth members celebrated their shift into adult membership.

The Club’s membership numbers over the last five years by Category can be compared in this table:

The Club has worked diligently on strategic planning for Membership and recognised the importance of increasing member numbers. The strategic planning included a review of membership of the 15 membership categories and found that they remained relevant.

Focus in 2022 and beyond will be on developing other forms of membership that may fill perceived gaps and create new opportunities.