AGM and Elections 2026

Published 15:40 on 14 Oct 2026

AGM 26 took place at HSSC, Gosport on Fri 9 Oct, attended by 28 members either physically or virtually. It was confirmed at the meeting that Col Charlie Battey has been re-elected as a Trustee. Minutes are now being generated and will be made available to all members in the New Year. As well as the usual governance items, the meeting heard about and discussed three particular themes.

Medway Moorings

The proposed transfer of the moorings has not been completed. Trustees agreed that a fresh evidence-based review is required, covering continued transfer, central REYC management, management through a partner, or transfer to another organisation. The review will test charitable benefit, affordability, operational and financial risk, access, deliverability, and long-term sustainability. No new decision has yet been made, and the existing intended transfer remains the default unless trustees decide otherwise. Members noted that mooring income has increased, the moorings are currently full, and the designated fund has grown. The meeting formally recognised the work of the Chatham members who achieved this improvement. The review will incorporate stakeholder evidence and will be shared with the wider membership when sufficiently developed.

Strategy, membership and identity

The strategy review has progressed more slowly than intended, but the existing strategy remains valid. A forthcoming survey will test member views, including options to broaden membership among serving personnel, groups with links to the Corps, the wider Army, veterans and civilians. A separate discussion paper proposed a more widely based club model; members supported further thought but stressed that the club's charitable purpose and the provision of sailing for serving personnel must remain central. That paper will join the conversation on longer term options for the Club.

Sailing activity and operational capacity

The club reported successful racing, training and charter activity, including increased charter demand and new sailors taking part. However, the meeting identified an urgent shortage of local boat-management support. Volunteers and committee members are spending excessive time maintaining and turning around boats, creating operational and reputational risk and potentially limiting future sailing. All members are invited to make a management contribution to the Club as a volunteer - please make yourself known. As the Cdre said: "Is it your turn to make the coffee?"

Finally, the default plan is to return to HSSC Gosport for AGM 27 (there will be a virtual option) and the Annual Dinner on Fri 8 Oct 2027 for next year's events.

Last updated 15:45 on 14 October 2026