SEPTEMBER 2026
ISSUE 9
BELLBUOY the Newsletter of The Barbados Yacht Club
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www.barbadosyachtclub.com
CONTENTS 3 4-5 6 7 8 9 10
MESSAGE FROM YOUR COMMODORE (AG.)
MESSAGE FROM THE GENERAL MANAGER
HR & MEMBERSHIP SERVICES
ENTERTAINMENT
KEEPSAKES
BOATING
TENNIS
Cover photo by: Peter Marshall
MESSAGE FROM THE COMMODORE (AG.)
Fellow members,
Thanks to everyone who attended the Extra Ordinary General meeting on 8th September 2026 to elect a new Commodore and to receive a presentation of the Club’s 10 year Strategic plan from Mr Andrew Hutchinson, Chairman of the Planning Committee. I take this opportunity to thank everyone for the confidence they have placed in me to perform the important role of Commodore of the Barbados Yacht Club at this critical stage of our club’s growth. As seen from the Strategic plan presentation, we have a great deal of work to do to take the club forward into the next decade and our committee will be prioritizing the areas of focus from the items outlined in the plan. Our committee will be working together to ensure that our club is meeting its members needs across the key areas of our operation; Physical Infrastructure, Food and Beverage, Racquetball sports, Boating/Sailing, Fitness and Social activities and the Financial planning required to drive such activities. We will be updating the members on our plans in the future and will be seeking your assistance on various projects as we implement them. We have installed the two security arms at the front entrance/exit and ask that all members and your guests support our efforts to improve the level of security at our club. We need our members to follow the rules of the club for introducing guests and help us to solve the problem of unauthorized entry rather than create additional problems for us. It should be noted that a guest needs to be accompanied by the member while at the club and members are not allowed to sign in guests and then leave them at the club. As a member we are fully responsible for our guests while they are at the Barbados Yacht Club and members should ensure that their guests are aware of the expected dress and decorum while at the club. The electrical upgrades of our beach bar area are ongoing and these upgrades will be completed in October, please bear with us while this work is taking place. This electrical work will allow us to upgrade some of our equipment in the Food and Beverage area. The new tennis lights have been installed and we look forward to the Tennis membership making effective use of this additional investment in the Tennis infrastructure. We need to see more junior tennis activity taking place if tennis is to grow or even survive at the club, the tennis members must make an effort to attract new younger players to the club. The statements of Members’ accounts for August were circulated by email and once again this month we will be sending you two statements, one for the food and beverage purchases made through our new Omni system and another for all other activity charges at the clubs on the old system. Please pay both accounts on a timely basis. We did not complete the merger of the two different members’ accounts in September but expect to do so in October. 3 BELLBUOY
MESSAGE FROM THE GENERAL MANAGER A Message from the General Manager – 25th September 2026
Greetings to all members on a sweltering/ bleak September afternoon! To keep things running smoothly, please take note of the following updates: Operational Updates Electrical Upgrade – As the work on the electrical upgrade in the Beach Facility continues we will again be closing our Kitchen and food service counter on Tuesday, September 29th. Our Bar and beach service will be available as usual and members are allowed to bring their own food to the Club on Tuesday. Security Barriers – The newly installed barriers have been activated and are fully operational. Members are asked to exercise patience as everyone becomes familiar with the new procedures. These will involve providing your membership number, identifying any guests present and providing details of entry for non-members. All are reminded to approach the exit gate slowly as it will be opened by sensor. Boating Safety and Security Contractor Access - Boat owners are now required to provide the General Manager or Boating Supervisor with no less than 24 hours-notice of external persons for whom permission is required to access the Club’s facilities to work on their boats. Name of the owner, name of boat, name of contractor, when they are expected to conduct said works. Haul & Launch Safety - Owners are now required to accompany the Boatmen when they visually inspect vessels before launch and after haul up. This is to ensure any issues are reported in a timely manner. Vessel Access - The Club’s Boating Regulations require written notification of all person’s to be allowed access to member vessels stored on the Club’s property. This information is to be sent to the General Manager who will then provide the necessary confirmation to the Boatmen. Notifications via phone ore WhatsApp will only be accepted in case of emergency.
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MESSAGE FROM THE GENERAL MANAGER A Message from the General Manager – 25th September 2026
Sailing 2026 SigniaGlobe National Dinghy Championships: Sunday, 4th October Sunday, 18th October
Member communication - We are always available at: General Manager (Office): 234-6243 -gmbyc@barbadosyachtclub.com Administrative Assistant (Office): 235-6760 -officebyc@barbadosyachtclub.com Member Services (Main Entrance): 427-1125 memberservice@barbadosyachtclub.com Finance Manager (Office): 253-2834 -accountant@barbadosyachtclub.com Food & Beverage Manager (Kitchen): 253-2923 foodandbeverage@barbadosyachtclub.com Sr. F&B Supervisor (Events): 242-9410 -events@barbadosyachtclub.com Boating & Facilities (Boatshed): 241-8171 -facilities@barbadosyachtclub.com Security (Main Entrance): 253-1125
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HUMAN RESOURCES & MEMBER SERVICES
We are delighted to share that the beach has made a stunning return after the rough waters of the summer. The soft, white sand is once again underfoot, the shoreline is beautifully clear, and there’s not a trace of sargassum seaweed in sight. The water is simply divine, and the gentle waves are inviting us all to linger a little longer. While you are here, why not explore our updated menu? We have introduced fresh new salads, flavourful wraps, and intriguing additions like rice bowls which are perfect for a light bite after a swim or a leisurely afternoon by the water. Some of our much-loved classics have also made a welcome return, so there is something for every taste. Be sure to say hello to the new faces behind the bar, and give a warm welcome to Rhea, who has returned to the team and is ready to serve you with her signature smile. We are truly fortunate to be positioned on one of the most beautiful beaches on the island, ideal for a morning stroll, a refreshing swim, or simply relaxing under the sun. Come down, take in the view, and make the most of this little slice of paradise. In keeping with our commitment to a welcoming atmosphere, we are currently reviewing our visitor arrangements to ensure it remains aligned with the club’s values. This includes reinforcing procedures for both members and visitors, as well as exploring new ways to help guests feel part of our club culture. This month also marked our Extraordinary General Meeting, where members gathered to elect a new Commodore. We are pleased to announce that Mr. Edward Clarke was unanimously elected and has graciously accepted the position. Congratulations and our very best wishes to him as he takes the helm. At the same meeting, the Long-Term Planning Committee presented their comprehensive vision for the club’s future development , we are happy to report that the plan that was met with enthusiasm and no objections from those present. One major request was added and that was to bring back the Friday Bajan lunches, we will hand that over to out Entertainment committee. As we prepare for the busy season ahead, attention is also being given to the overall presentation and readiness of the Club. This includes our facilities, beach areas, housekeeping, signage, security and service standards. We all have a part to play in looking after our Club and ensuring it remains a welcoming and enjoyable environment for members and their guests. It is the perfect time of year to enjoy the beauty of our coast, the flavours of our kitchen, and the camaraderie of our club. We look forward to seeing you soon. 6 BELLBUOY
ENTERTAINMENT There is plenty to look forward to at BYC as we head into the final months of the year. Fridays at BYC remain an important focus, with the aim of creating a more consistent Friday evening experience for members. Look out for regular food specials, Happy Hour, music in the Bar, and a relaxed atmosphere to start the weekend. We are working closely with Food & Beverage to make Fridays a night when members know there will always be something happening at the Club. Planning is also well underway for Old Year’s Night, and this year we are focusing on creating one great Club wide celebration. Plans include dinner in the Ballroom, a party on the beach, entertainment, décor, a photo booth, a champagne countdown at midnight and breakfast to start 2027. More details will be released over the coming days, so keep an eye on Club communications. Looking a little further ahead, we are developing a new “Meet Me at Shot Hall” social evening for 13 November, bringing together darts, pool, music, food and drinks for an informal night at the Club. Behind the scenes, planning has already begun for the January–March season, with Quiz Nights, historical Lunch & Lectures and other new ideas being explored. We want to keep the calendar varied and interesting without overcrowding it, focusing on events that give members a genuine reason to come together and enjoy the Club. Keep an eye on Club emails, WhatsApp, social media and notice boards for dates and details. We look forward to seeing you at the Club!
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KEEPSAKES Celebrating Service & Legacy 25 Year Lapel Pin Celebrating 25 years of loyalty, camaraderie, and dedication to the Barbados Yacht Club. A proud symbol of commitment and Club spirit.
40 Year Service Lapel Pin Honouring 40 years of steadfast membership and lasting contribution. A distinguished mark of loyalty and tradition.
50 Year Service Lapel Pin Recognising 50 years of exceptional dedication and legacy. A prestigious emblem of lifelong commitment to the Barbados Yacht Club.
Classic Lapel Pin A timeless emblem of pride and belonging. Featuring the Club’s distinguished crest, this elegant pin lets you proudly represent the Barbados Yacht Club wherever you go.
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BOATING Reminder to All Boat Owners Just a reminder to all boat owners that current boat registration and insurance documents are required to be on file for all vessels kept on the premises. Please also ensure that trailers and axles are properly maintained and in safe working condition to ensure safe launching and retrieval of vessels. Launch Hours Monday–Friday: 8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. Saturday, Sundays & Bank Holidays: 8:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m. We ask everyone to please ensure that their documentation is current and that their trailers and equipment are maintained appropriately. Thank you for your cooperation and assistance in keeping the boating operations safe and organized.
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TENNIS TRANQUILITY SQUARE LAWN TENNIS CLUB VISIT The Barbados Yacht Club (“BYC”) is delighted to be hosting Tranquility Square Lawn Tennis Club (“Tranquility”) from Trinidad this coming weekend, Friday, 25 September – Sunday, 27 September 2026. Matches will be played on Friday and Sunday from 4:00 p.m. on all courts, with play continuing under the lights on Courts 3 and 4. Matches will consist of Men’s Doubles, Ladies’ Doubles and Mixed Doubles. Sunday has been designated as a “Beach Day.” BYC and Tranquility share a special reciprocal relationship that spans decades. Tranquility were exceptional hosts in 2025, and we look forward to welcoming BYC Members to come out, watch some tennis, and lime with our special guests from Tranquility this coming weekend. We look forward to seeing our members at the Club and hope everyone enjoys the activities planned.
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BYC NOTICE
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BYC NOTICE
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BYC NOTICE
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WELCOME byc notice
NEW MEMBERS FOR AUGUST
STEVE GORE & DAPHNE HAZELL
SONIS & GREGORY DICKENSON
JAMES MASSE-DOWD & JOHANNA LOCH-ALLEN
CANDICE LASHLEY
PETER & EMILY SAMPSON
ADAM & SAMANTHA HUNTE
LANCELOT & SARAH WOODS
MANAGEMENT COMMITTEE FOR 2026-2027 Commodore Vice Commodore Committee Members
Mr. Edward Clarke Ms. Rachel Mouttet Mr. Noah Haynes Mr. Paul Kellman Mr. Ross Parker Mr. Christopher Skinner Mr. Allan Hodgkinson
Trustees
Ms.Alix James
General Manager The Barbados Yacht Club P. O. Box 70, Bridgetown BB11000 (246) 427-7318 / (246) 427-1125 Fax: 435-7590 officebyc@barbadosyachtclub.com www.barbadosyachtclub.com
Mr. Andrew Hutchinson Mr. C. F. Packer, MBA Mr. Dick Stoute Mr. Peter Marshall