LOCH BROOM SAILING CLUB: Committee Meeting Minutes (draft) 3 November

Committee Meeting Minutes (draft) 3 November

Draft Minutes - 3 November 2017 at 5:30 pm

1. Present: Rona Johnson (part time), John Osborne, Alison Osborne, Bobby

Osborne, Donald Buchanan, Gill Wilson, Dave Maxwell (Treasurer), Adrian

Morgan (Commodore), Sandy Osborne, Anthony O’Flaherty, Paul Copestake,

Nat Wilson (part time), Paul Driver (Secretary)

Apologies: Robert White, Gilly Meighan, David Dawson

2. Approval of Draft Minutes of Previous Meetings

2.1. 18th March 2017: Noted that these were approved at meeting of 11th August

2.2. 11th August 2017 (Meeting re UHT proposals for Wee Pier): Add note re approval

of minutes of 18th March meeting, otherwise approved.

3. Matters Arising (not dealt with elsewhere)

3.1. Trailer – Actions from 18/3: Conditions for use – ongoing, noted that trailer had

been used little, Adrian will put conditions on blog; Lock for trailer – done.

3.2. Fundraising Boat Jumble of 6th May (Action from 18/3 AOB) – event had been

quiet, but had raised £100 (this has at present been offset by Nat and Gill against

the £123 spent by Nat on flying fifteen refurbishment). Main lesson for possible

future events is to start planning and publicising earlier.

4. Officers’ Reports

4.1. Commodore’s Report: A good season generally, notable for little wind. See

Champions’ Reports for comments on specific activities.

4.2. Treasurer’s Report: Balance stands at £9595; main expense since March was

insurance. Paul D still has some items in hand to balance and hand over. Main

loss of revenue over the years has been boat parking. Eilean Dubh – Dave to

invoice Iain Boyd for £75. Revised spending guidelines (Action DM/PD from 18/3)

– ongoing.

4.3. Secretary: Paul D standing down – agreed to co-opt David Dawson as

replacement. David’s position as Hon Sec will be formalised at next AGM.

5. Champions’ Reports

5.1. Cruising: John thought that this had been the biggest ever cruising season, with

eight boats heading for Oban. Also notable were shakedown cruise to Skye and

the Storm Cruise, and Hugh Stirling’s travels to Scandinavia etc (although currently

stuck in Wales!).

Request received to fix date for Summer Cruise: 29th June to 14th July pencilled in.

5.2. Flying Fifteens: A good season all round. Would be good to get more people

involved in the racing. Proposed holding an early season regatta/open day

specifically aimed at giving people a chance to experience FF sailing – worth

targeting rowers for this. Nat had refurbished and then sailed the Club’s second

FF. Freedom not used 2017; Anthony planning to take this boat on next year.

Merits of hauling out to scrub hull midseason debated – increase in speed or

weed?

LBSC Draft Minutes 3 November 2017 page 2 prepared by Paul D

5.3. Youth: Dave reported that Pico Week had been successful, with numbers at

capacity. A couple of ad hoc sessions had been managed early season, but little

if anything after Pico week – main reasons being junior’s work commitments, and

too little wind when folk were available. Some children had taken part in the HMS

winter series last year – aim to repeat this year if children’s exams etc permit, with

possibility of LBSC hosting a session. Anthony to contact HMS to discuss. Picos

to be put on trailer and moved to Paul D’s garden. Remaining dinghies to be moved

or well tied down.

5.4. Skiff: Paul C reported that the season so far had seen the ladies active, but men

less so; expected that men would be rowing more through the winter. Next

weekend (11th Nov) sees Ullapool hosting the NW Rowing League – should be

involved in this, and then gauge interest in travelling to future fixtures. Loki

requires some maintenance, mainly sanding down and painting.

5.5. Clubhouse and surrounds – nothing of note at present.

5.6. RIB – the boat is winterised with cover on (Sandy will look at manual to double

check). Engine service not required due to low usage over past year. Morse cables

replaced last summer during Pico week. Prop has been refurbished, but new prop

guard required prior to junior sessions.

6. Plans for Works on Wee Pier

Actions from 11/8 re letters to HC and UHT concerning surrender of lease all

complete.

Sandy presented outline of works proposed by UHT. Main change from plans

previously circulated is that no works are now proposed for the grass bank area;

hoped that better solution can be achieved in future. Currently at stage of going to

tender and getting funding in place. Licence for works expected Feb/Mar next year,

with work starting shortly after and running for about 5 months through the

summer. Throughout this time the jetty area will be a building site, and out of use,

although the beach should be clear. All sections of the club will have to change the

way that they operate during this period, it was suggested that this could be a

benefit if approached positively (eg shifting junior activities to a different location

could be fun for kids). Extent to which parked boats (skiffs, ED) will need to be

moved elsewhere not certain at present. Contractors might want to use our

facilities (eg toilets, hardstanding), and in this case we should seek some quid pro

quo arrangement of benefit to the club. With jetty being extended, club moorings

will be shifted to the west. Strip of land previously leased by club: concern about

club’s future use/rights, especially status of temporary shelter which extends into

that ground – this can be discussed between club and UHT in future. Sandy

confirmed that the work on the jetty is a self-standing item, and not linked in with

other possible future works on the harbour. The jetty is seen as an asset for the

community, of benefit to those engaged in a wide range of watersports.

7. Annual Dinner – 16th December

Rona has organisation in hand, with invites sent out. Drinks on arrival – only if

included in price. Wine list – Rona will check with Shona as to what the

arrangement was in the past. Table layout – finalise when numbers attending are

known. UCR Club invited via Jonathan. Any others to invite: Brian W. Robert will

be away on the night – John to sort arrangements for prizegiving with CP. Crackers

– decided that it would be a Bring Your Own Crackers party.

8. Future Plans for Junior Sailing

Noted that sailing dinghies were little used last year, other than in Pico Week.

Exploring an idea to address this, and get more children sailing, Adrian has spoken

to Head Teacher at High School to see if the school could form a sailing club,

probably running on Friday afternoons, with LBSC offering use of boats and

facilities. Broad support for this idea, subject to LBSC’s assets being protected (eg

LBSC Draft Minutes 3 November 2017 page 3 prepared by Paul D

through school’s insurance), and our club not taking on any liabilities (eg blame for

any accidents involving school’s use of facilities). Recognised that various hurdles

exist for the school to get such a scheme running: children already

kayaking/rowing/swimming etc on Friday afternoons; as an example,

Kinlochbervie school offered sailing, but had teachers who could sail, one being

an instructor – Ullapool would need money, or volunteers. Look at getting topic on

agenda for forthcoming Parent Council meeting. No further LBSC action at present

– await proposal from school.

9. AOB

Date of AGM set for Saturday 24 March 2018. Follow with “Royal Bash” as last

year.

OUR PHILOSOPHY

Self reliance rather than certification is a strong tradition in the Highlands, both afloat and ashore. We may appear to be among the most laid back sailing clubs in the country, which doesn't mean that we take safety lightly; far from it: you soon get bitten, sailing up here, but we rely on commonsense and the expertise of members, rather than an over reliance on certificates.

Take advice from an experienced sailor if in doubt about going afloat. Less confident sailors should stay in an area where you can be easily seen and quickly reached.

Do not sail in a boat or in weather conditions that are beyond your competence.

In short: respect the weather conditions, which can change rapidly, and the advice of those who know the area from many years’ experience of its moods.

Welcome to the Loch Broom Sailing Club. Our club is one which has traditionally had a fairly informal and non-disciplined attitude towards its running. As membership and facilities continue to grow there is, however, a need to be more rigorous and structured in our approach with safety being paramount and we do demand that certain safety standards are adhered to at all times.

The club was founded on the competitive edge of racing in largely single class boats. From there it developed into cruising/racing and thence to long distance cruising. Currently, the fleet of Flying Fifteens and more recently Picos has stimulated the competitive edge and we now see a resurgence of interest in racing in general - and this is to be encouraged.

The club is run by an elected committee and it has generally been the case that a regular core of committee members have been the mainstay of annual maintenance and repair to the clubhouse and its assets. We currently have a desire to improve the clubhouse and its surroundings, to maintain and look after the club boats, to organise training, to organise racing, to supervise Pico sailing, to be race starter, to chase grant aid - to name but a few of the ongoing requirements. We therefore welcome assistance from members who feel that they could help with, or perhaps take ownership, of any of these roles. We welcome new blood on the committee. If you would like to volunteer for any of these roles or feel you could contribute in any way to the running of the club we would be pleased to hear from you. Alternatively, please feel free to attend any of our committee meetings and offer your assistance.

The club occupies a very prominent position and we are under scrutiny from locals and visitors alike. It is essential that we maintain the appearance of the club, its environs and its assets - and for this we rely mainly on the enthusiasm and commitment of members. We would encourage you therefore to take your share of work during the many work parties that we intend to convene over the summer and winter periods.

Work parties unfortunately (or fortunately) have to fit between summer racing and cruising commitments and between winter training and boat maintenance - and that is before even considering the demands of normal family life - such is the life of a sailor.

SAFETY

Loch Broom Sailing Club recognises that there are always risks associated with sailing. The club policy is based on the following principles:

Responsibility for the safe operation of the club rests with the members.

The guidelines will ensure, as far as is reasonably practical, safe conditions are maintained within the clubhouse and compound, and minimise the risks associated with activities on the water.

Club members have a duty of care to take all reasonable steps to avoid injuring other club members and water users or damaging others equipment.

Members participate in all activities, which are not club training events, at their own risk.

Children are the responsibility of their parent, guardian or a supervising adult during these activities. The club does not carry out risk assessments for members taking part in these activities; it is the responsibility of individual members to make their own assessments of risk, taking into account factors such as weather, tides, skill, experience, equipment etc.

Members are free to use club facilities and assets at any time, subject to the individual rules for the club’s Picos, Flying Fifteens and St Ayles skiff. However they should remember that safety cover is only available at organised club events and therefore they are sailing entirely at their own risk.

A fundamental principle of maritime law is that the skipper is responsible for the safety of his vessel and crew. It is the skipper's responsibility to decide whether to start or continue a race.

The club has only one Rule covering all water activities at all times: Life jackets or buoyancy aids (appropriate CE approved, eg min.150N life jackets or 50N buoyancy aids) must be worn by all those on or in the water.

Fair Winds!

LOCH BROOM SAILING CLUB

We may appear to be among the most laid back sailing clubs in the country, which doesn't mean that we take safety lightly; far from it: you soon get bitten, sailing up here, but we rely on commonsense and the expertise of members, rather than an over reliance on certificates.

We have a number of members who have qualified as safety boat drivers, and coaches at various levels, and some of the older ones also have qualifications ranging from level 2 powerboat to Yachtmaster. RIB drivers must have level 2 Powerboat, minimum.

But self reliance rather than certification is a strong tradition in the Highlands, both afloat and ashore.

Nevertheless we are constantly debating our approach to safety, anxious however not to spoil the ethos of a club that prides itself on being not only laid back but responsible.

Members and other users of our facilities must take responsibilityfor their own safety both afloat and ashore. The club will do its best to provide on-water safety cover, but that does not alter individual responsibility. The safety boat is not always deployed for races, which puts the onus on fellow racers to assist if another boat is in trouble. Acceptance of this policy is a condition of going afloat.

GENERAL GUIDELINES

As a club member or visitor, you have a duty to both yourself and to other club users as regards safety. This duty means acting responsibly whilst on club premises, including in the use of the boat park andin the supervision of your children.

You can improve your own on-water safety by adopting the following:

Take advice from an experienced sailor if in doubt about going afloat. Less confident sailors should stay in an area where you can be easily seen and quickly reached.

Do not sail in a boat or in weather conditions that are beyond your competence.

In short: respect the weather conditions, which can change rapidly, and the advice of those who know the loch from many years’ experience of its moods.

But above all, enjoy your sailing, within your personal limits.

FACILITIES

Picnic Tables and Barbecue: The club has two substantial picnic tables in front of the clubhouse and a basic barbecue. These are used for social events and are available for use on an ad-hoc basis.

Club Room and Kitchen: The Clubhouse has a main meeting room and kitchen which is equipped with a kettle and microwave.

Noticeboard: Events and matters of interest are posted on the noticeboard on a regular basis.

Access to the Clubhouse: A key can be obtained from the treasurer for a small fee. Keys are controlled and should be kept secure and returned in the event of membership being discontinued.

Whilst the Club does not have a formal non-smoking policy, it is requested that those members who do smoke take the wishes others into consideration at Social events and meetings in the Clubhouse.

In recent months the club has been given a much-needed makeover, and a changing room made from the old storage room.

Improvements are ongoing, and now include a new galley bar.

The club room is available for a modest hire fee for functions and barbecues. Its aspect, overlooking the harbour, is one of the best in the village.

LOCH BROOM SAILING CLUB

Flying Fifteens, Picos, cruisers, skiffs -

Flying Fifteens, Picos, cruisers, skiffs - we welcome all those who enjoy messing about on the water. LBSC is a friendly club that welcomes new members.

Loch Broom Sailing Club is open to all with an interest in the sea and sailing. You don't have to own your own boat or even have much experience.

The Club owns some Flying Fifteens, 22ft keelboats which are ideal for racing and regatta events. Newcomers to sailing can get a good taste of the pastime by crewing a Flying Fifteen, without much danger of getting too wet (or traumatised!).

Private FF owners number around 10, making a potential fleet turnout of a dozen boats. There are a range of larger cruising sailboats which undertake trips to the Summer Isles, the Western & Northern Isles and further afield.

There are a growing number of children in the club who enjoy sailing accompanied in the Flying Fifteens and on the larger boats but also have fun on their own in the in the Picos, an ideal craft for small beginners.

The Feva is a high performance dinghy for those who have graduated from Picos and can also be sailed by adults.

Use of the Club House

Keys are available to purchase at cost. The Club House has a small lounge area, small store, toilet and small kitchen. There are no showers.

Club Discount

Members of the Club are eligible for 10% discount at Caley Marine Chandlery Inverness. Bulk purchasing of items from other suppliers, such as wetsuits has been organised and members can enjoy discount of up to 30% on this type of order.

Grants

The Club endeavours to obtain grant aid for group training and has been successful in obtaining a 50% grant for children's' training in 2003 and 2004.

Training

The Club is not an RYA accredited training centre, but has organised various training courses using visiting instructors and endeavours to give junior members every encouragement to learn to sail.

Ullapool UHI can organise RYA shore based courses such as: RYA Day Skipper, Yachtmaster, Competent crew, RYA powerboat level II, First Aid, Liferaft and lifejacket use and safe use of flares.

We have close links with local clubs which can offer formal training for those working up their RYA qualifications.

Use of Club Equipment

Members of the Club are eligible to use Club owned assets (including the Picos, Feva and the Flying Fifteens). Use of all Club equipment should comply with club safety requirements.

Flying Fifteens

The Club has two Flying Fifteen classic racing dinghies afloat during the summer, moored just off the Wee Pier. Each boat is available for use by club members. Racing takes place most weekends, and on Friday evenings weather permitting, and Saturdays, 3pm.

Picos and Feva

The Club owns three Pico dinghies and a Feva. These are launched each summer weekend, with safety boat cover, for the use of adults and children in the Club, weather permitting. Although the club is not a recognised RYA sailing centre informal instruction is given. Parents of children using the boats are expected to help out with launching, recovering, shore support and safety boat cover on a rota basis.

Every season a week, Pico Week, usually the first or second week in July, is set aside for more formal junior training.

General Information

www.ullapool.com

Navigational Points Click here for a map of the village

See the Ullapool Harbour web site here

Moorings

There are eight moorings at around £15 per night payable to the Harbour Assistants any time day or night. To get in touch the boats should either use the VHF channel14 or 16 or telephone 01854 612091 (24hrs). The harbour is trying to keep the outer steps clear so yachts can come alongside for water and stores etc.

If visitors wish to come to the pier they should use the same contact arrangements.

CONTACTS

Where are we? Follow this link for a map. The Wee Pier and Clubhouse are at the junction of Mill Street, Garve Road and Shore Street.

Loch Broom Sailing Club, The Clubhouse, Garve Road, Ullapool, Ross-shire

Harbourmaster

Mr Kevin Peach - 01854 612091

Banks

Royal Bank of Scotland, Argyle Street, 01854 612112

Bank of Scotland, West Argyle Street, 01854 612693

Doctor

Ullapool Medical Practice 01854 612015 (night and day)

Swimming Pool

Lovely indoor 25m pool Quay Street 01854 612884

Public Toilets

At the rear of the ferry car park on West Argyll Street

Fuel

Marine diesel is available at Ullapool Pier. Contact Harbour Office for details 01854 612091.

There is a petrol station on the Garve Road just by the Wee Pier

Groceries

Tesco Latheron Lane, Ullapool. Open 0800 - 2100 Mon - Sat and 0900 - 1800 Sunday

LOCH BROOM SAILING CLUB

Pages

JSW

Committee Meeting Minutes (draft) 3 November