If you are viewing this notice and are not a member but would like to be, then complete the new electronic membership form here. Please complete this form even if you have previously completed the old fashioned paper one. It is envisaged that the main avenue of communication will be via the web site to keep members up to date with committee deliberations.

Here follows the latest club update from the Commodore

   30 Oct 11-The Committee has reformed and new members have filled some of the vacant slots.  A recovery plan is being formulated.  The key elements are:

   a.    The Clubhouse.  We have now had a more detailed opinion on what is required - it would appear that the front of the building (that which contains the 'café' room and the overhanging balcony) may need to be demolished and the question is how we achieve that.  Negotiations will take place with our regular visiting Royal Engineers to see whether this is within their capacity.

   b.    Website. You will see that changes have been made to our website www.assc-cyrpus.org.uk.  I commend them to you and hope you will notice that it is one of the ways that we can have a better handle on our membership, as well as communicate with them.  Please do register for the members area - where we intend having the ability to discuss matters of the moment.  I would also like to see some additional photographs for the gallery and would invite those with suitable images to forward them to Mike H.  Mike and I would both appreciate additional thoughts on features and facilities that would enhance the website.

   c.    Membership.  We have had several new sailing members recently albeit have missed out on some due to our current inability to provide sailing courses.  However, until we have an RYA sailing instructor, we are limited to our Powerboat Courses.  The PB2 courses will continue during the winter months, weather dependent.  Keeping track of membership is a notoriously difficult problem for all Service clubs and the best fit solution seems to be using electronic means. Thus you will note numerous urgings to register on the website.

   d.    Towing Vehicle.  Our old Trooper is beyond economic repair and the only salvageable part is the towing bracket on the  front.  Whilst we have negotiated an arrangement with the Waterski Club to use their vehicle, this is unlikely to prove to be anything other than a short term measure. The Committee are looking at purchasing a tractor (similar to that used at Episkopi) which would have the advantages of being purpose-designed for the task and also much easier to keep salt-free for longevity.  We are looking at locally purchasing such. Second-hand tractors in Cyprus are high value items but if anyone knows of a tractor in Cyprus or the UK which we could acquire, then sing out!

   e.    Regatta.  It is Episkopi's prerogative for regatta date choice next year but all are conscious of our predicament and I have been approached for a view on when we might best be placed to hold a regatta.  This will be an agenda item at the next Committee meeting.

   f.    Bosuns for Boats.  We are looking for competent and interested parties to be responsible for oversight of the various boat groups. Not necessarily to do the work but certainly to coordinate such. 3 out of 4 powerboats are serviceable with minor works required on Merlin.  We have purchased a new hand-held radio and Whirlwind's refurbished trailer is almost ready to receive her.

ANCR

9 Aug 2011

Clubhouse Restrictions - there is nothing new to report here except to say that the required paperwork has now been submitted and we will await due process for the unsafe areas to be fenced off.  Sailing continues and indeed we have welcomed a new member only this past weekend.

Rescue Boat Troubles.  On Saturday 6th Aug we were informed that our Safety Boat berthed at the Mole was awash. On arrival we found that this was indeed the case and the most likely obvious source of water ingress was the elephant's trunk in the down position.  The situation was remedied with some swift bailing and no obvious harm was done.  I understand that this is a repeat of a similar incident last year but have no detail on the matter.  It seems most unlikely that the safety crew failed to stow it - its normal operation almost precludes this.  Thus the most logical explanation (excluding wilful interference from persons unknown) is that the device released itself from the jam cleat.  We'll look more closely at the condition of the cleat but please be aware and check this carefully on leaving the boat.

ANCR

'3 Aug 2011 - As a result of a recent building survey which identified potentially dangerous areas, the Clubhouse has had restrictions put on its usage.  The current taped-off areas will be replaced by more permanent fencing and all personnel are advised to avoid the restricted areas.  The situation is an evolving one and the options are still being evaluated - the future is different but certainly not bleak, and we have the full support of the station.  However, sailing is unaffected by this and the Club is open as usual.  Club members are reminded of the need to check the website for duty rotas and updates to the situation.'

Alastair