paradise radio yacht club

Sydney to Hobart handicap winner hooked on radio-controlled yachts

Allan Walker won one of the world's toughest ocean races, but has transferred his enthusiasm — and skills — to the challenge of radio-controlled yacht sailing.

Key points:

• Formed in 2007, Paradise Radio Yacht Club has 90 members
• They race at Emerald Lakes with four events on Saturdays
• Yacht cost ranges from $250 to more than $7,000

In 1986 onboard Ex Tension in his first Sydney to Hobart race, Mr Walker and the crew battled huge "extremely dangerous" seas in Bass Strait to win the handicap title.

Two years later he moved to the Gold Coast and gave up sailing until a fellow yachtie told him, "Mate, I've discovered something for us".

It was radio yacht racing, and it did not take long for Mr Walker to get onboard.

"We bought a boat each and there happened to be a world championship in 2005 at Kawana Waters," he said.

"We went and sailed in that and we were hooked."

Club of friendly rivalry

He is one of 90 members of the Paradise Radio Yacht Club who sail at Emerald Lakes.

"We sail here nearly every day of the week," club spokesman Mike Jefferys said.

"It's a wonderful venue."

The location has an ideal north/south aspect surrounded by parklands, allowing a largely uninterrupted air flow.

Mr Walker is not the only yachting champion now enjoying radio-controlled yachts.

"We've got guys who are world champions in Etchell sailing," Mr Jefferys said.

"A lot of us share our techniques and abilities. We get out there and have a lot of fun."

Weekly videos of their races posted on social media attract up to 10,000 views.

The variety of yachts is impressive.

Some members race twice a week with two to three different boats.

"We have basically got a boat that is up to a metre long and then we have a controller, which we stand on the shore and direct the boats around the course," Mr Jefferys said.

"We sail under the standard racing rules.

"One fleet, the Dragon Force 65 has 65,000 boats that sail every week internationally. In Australia we have got 2,000 boats.

"There is no crew to worry about. The boats are pretty small, so you can put them together pretty quickly. It's relatively cheap. For a Dragon Force 65 it is $250."

The bigger yachts present an added challenge.

"It's a little bit of cheque-book sailing to an extent. If your boat is two to three years old you are probably not sailing as fast as the bloke who has got a brand new super-duper boat," Mr Jefferys said.

"You're sailing with a joystick that lets the sails in and out and also controls the rudder, so over time you become part of the boat.

"It's as though you are sailing on the boat. You completely zone out and it's an amazing experience."

Boys with Toys fallacy

He may have been victorious over the savage seas of Bass Strait but Mr Walker finds the radio yacht challenge immensely satisfying.

"They are a wonderfully pure form of yacht racing," he said.

"There are no mechanical devices.

"There's an electrical winch for sail control and rudder steering. They are a magical thing."

Although already near capacity, the club is keen to attract members who may have physical disabilities who could find the challenge and friendship satisfying.

As for the perception these clubs are older gentlemen sitting in deck chairs under the trees playing with their toys, the reality is very different.

"For those of us who came out of a life of sail boat racing with a competitive nature, it is just fantastic," Mr Walker said.

"We thrive on hating each other on the water."

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• Regatta Entry

IOM Coomera Cup 2024 Event Report

Jonesy  wins Coomera Cup for the 4th year in a row.

Well done Paul, you have actually won every Coomera Cup since this was the 4th time it has been run.

Maybe we could get a perpetual trophy and leave it at your home.

CC2024 was held over two days , 22nd and 23rd of June.

New committee members announcement

Eagleby classic iom regatta.

Jefferys Claims QLD DF65 Title

Over the weekend 27 & 28th April Paradise Radio Yacht Club hosted the 2024 DF65 Queensland Championships held on their Emerald Lakes Course at the Gold Coast. This was a well supported and exciting weekend for the premier QLD DF65 sailing event of the year.

Marbleheads sail at Eagleby

 Marbleheads are going.

Eagleby moves into its next phase and encourages everyone to enjoy the great venue.

DF65 Interclub RD1 2024

Redlands Radio Sailing Club was the host for this first Association DF event of the year.

We had 4 clubs represented for the first time Redlands, Paradise, Springfield, and Sunshine Coast. The event has been expanded this year to include SCRSC to accommodate the expansion and the growing  popularity and the DF class within our state .

Vale Clive Ball

Sadly, the inevitable has occurred, and Clive has passed away peacefully this morning, 6/2/24, at around 11:30 am.

There will be no funeral.

MORETON DF95 CLASSIC - 2023

The Moreton DF95 Classic got underway on Saturday 25th under overcast skies and a NE breeze at Newport’s Jabiru Canal with eleven skippers competing.

After a comprehensive briefing, the racing got underway a few minutes after 10am.

QLD IOM Championship 20 – 21 October 2023

The Gladstone Radio Controlled Yacht Club hosted the 2023 QLD IOM Championships with 28 entrants representing all States.  16 races with 2 heats using the HMS were held over the two days. Thank you to all those who travelled to join us, and also to those who joined us for a casual meal and a few drinks at the Gladstone Yacht Club on Saturday night.

2023 Central Qld IOM Regatta. 9th & 10th September 2023

A cloudy chilly morning greeted the 17 skippers who started race 1 in a brisk "Top of A"  SE breeze.

DF 95 Queensland State Championship

Fantastic conditions for the  2023 Dragon Flite 95 Queensland State Championships hosted by Eagleby  Radio Yacht Club at Eagleby, Queensland

2023 EDDIE COWELL IOM REGATTA

The 2023 Eddie Cowell Regatta, hosted by the Sunshine Coast Radio Sailing Club, saw 35 IOM’s compete with skippers from all States except NT plus three all the way from New Zealand. 3 days of fantastic racing ensued with a good range of conditions and wind directions.

Qld A Class championships 2023

The 2023 QLD A Class Championship was raced this year at Eagleby over two days. Conditions on both days were light SE in the morning building to a good A rig in the afternoon. Racing was closed after 26 races with a clear result and another race win for the consistent Barry Grant. Placegetters were Frank Russell QLD 1st, Barry Grant NSW 2nd, Peter Anderson NSW 3rd.

Classic IOM Regatta at Eagleby Radio Yacht Club on the 29th of October.

Calling all classic IOM skippers, we are running a regatta for classics only, so if you have one that meets the criteria, please clean it up and get ready to race with other boats of the era for a fun day of racing at Eagleby.

2023 QLD MARBLEHEAD STATE CHAMPIONSHIP

Hosted by EAGLEBY RADIO YACHT CLUB saw a fleet of twenty boats with ten boats from Fiji, NSW, Vic, and Canberra.

Ten Rater invitational

Paradise radio yacht club hosted the Ten Rater Invitational, which saw 11 boats sailing. After a slow start due to winter weather, racing got away in a light ESE breeze.

CENTRAL QUEENSLAND MARBLEHEAD CHAMPIONSHIP

Fraser Coast RYC proudly hosted this Regatta at Hervey Bay. Even though the fleet was small there were some quality sailors chasing the title.

IOM South Queensland Championship Comes Down to the Wire

Twenty two sailors competed in the 2023 South Queensland IOM Championship at Kawana over the weekend of 01-02 July, at another successful event hosted by the Sunshine Coast Radio Sailing Club.

Successful DF Championships on the Sunshine Coast

The Sunshine Coast Radio Sailing Club was selected to host the 2023 DF65 and DF95 National Championships at Lake Kawana from 1st to 7th June. It was the clubs largest hosting event, and in classes they do not regularly sail – but who would have known….

Coomera Cup 2023

The Coomera Cup 2023, hosted by Wynnum Manly Radio Model Yacht Club (WMRMYC) at Eagleby, was held over the weekend of the 27th and 28th of May. 

Saturday's weather was bright and sunny with variable light winds. The variable winds were a challenge for the PRO, Lindsay Walker, who, together with the boat crew, did a fantastic job, under very trying conditions, of setting fair and competitive courses. 

2023 South Queensland DF95 Regatta

This event was the first two-day regatta for DF 95s hosted by the PRYC, which commenced on Saturday, the 25th of March, at Emerald Lakes; some 26 entries were received, and by the start time of 10.00 am, 22 skippers were ready to race. A delay to the start was required as the bright sunny day yielded little to no wind until a very little East to South East breeze started to fill in, requiring a move of the racing area to the eastern side of the lake, hence delaying racing until 10.45 am.

South Queensland Ten Rater Championship at Banora Point

The Twin Towns Club again put on a very successful Regatta for the 10R fleet hosting the South Queensland 10R Championship on April 01. Eight boats crossed the line at the start, and eight boats finished it as well. Even though the numbers were down, the quality of the fleet spread from 1 – 8 places. The officials were also top drawer with probably two of Qld’s premier PROs in Lindsay Walker and Bill Clancy and the state’s top race scorer in Anne Walker—pretty good stuff. The club’s volunteers also did a very professional job with the boat crew, observers, and administrators. The weather was testing all involved in trying to set a course, but, at the end of the day, we had very fair courses, with 16 races completed, getting the 3rd drop, which ultimately proved the difference for the winner.

No content for this month? Check out our 'News Archives' with news from recent months!

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• February 2024
• January 2024
• December 2023
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2024 QLD Ten Rater State Championship Emerald Lakes, QLD

Latest results, 2024 qld iom coomera cup sportsmans parade, lake kawana, bokarina, qld, 2024 qld df65 state championship emerald lakes, qld, 2024 qld marblehead state championship nr 329 eagleby rd, eagleby, qld, 2023 qld iom state championship gladstone, qld, 2023 qld df65 gold coast classic emerald lakes, qld.

2024Interclub Series

Springfield Lakes Radio Yacht Club

Round 1 2nd March 2024

More videos of racing here 

2023 Round 3

12 th November 2023

What an exciting weekend with Springfield Lakes members participating in the 3rd round of the Interclub DF65 Queensland championship hosted superbly by Paradise radio yacht club

The Springfield team comprised Ian Ashe, Grant Lihou,  Garry Earl, and Mike Jefferys. 

The team put in a sterling effort with Springfield taking home the championship trophy …. Well done guys 

Conditions were extremely challenging with the morning breeze around 18 km an hour strengthening in to the afternoon to 25 km an hour with everyone surprisingly keeping their A+ Rigs on for the day …. Some had forgotten their other rigs !!

Check out the videos and watch Ian Ashe win. nearly every single start 

This was a challenging day….The gates at the top mark combined with changing and fluctuating wind direction lead to some interesting and close roundings 🤪

Tony Fannin was superb with his organisational skills on the day and supported by lots of Paradise members ….so big thank you for all the volunteers

Links to the days videos follows. Thanks to Ian Lobley. https://www.youtube.com/c/QldRadioYachting

24th June 2023

Running results after Round 2

4th March 2023

The first round of the series was held today in near perfect RC sailing conditions. Sunshine a little cloud cover and breeze, yes at Springfield!! The general direction S-SE with a few 180 degree twitches to other points of the compass and kept everyone on their toes .It also demanded the full attention of the PRO to set a fair course.

We had 18 boats on the water from SLRSC, RRSC, PRYC .The favourable conditions allowed for 17 races to be completed. Well done to the PRO Ian Ashe who again showed his experience on how to manage the day, and keep the momentum going to achieve this result. There were 5 different winners throughout the day who shared first place. Congratulation to Mike Jefferys 52 for his overall win from Grant Lihou 917,second and current Qld Champion Daniel Bergen with a fine third place. Well done to all the sailors for their on water behaviour in making this a fun and competitive event that was enjoyed by both sailors and spectators .The team standings after to-days results First-SLRSC, Second- PRYC, Third-RRSC. This will make for some very competitive sailing from some members in the remaining rounds.

Thank you to John Heard and his committee of volunteers for a well run and executed event. The extra effort providing lunch and refreshments for all in attendance was well received and appreciated by everyone. Don Horton - Commodore - Redlands Radio Sailing Club

Videos on our Channel https://www.youtube.com/@springfieldlakesryc

2022 Interclub Series

Round 2 Redlands Radio Sailing Club

25th June 2022

Race Report Round 2 DF65 Interclub Series 

A cool winter’s day greeted the 19 entrants at Sovereign Lake. Very light WSW breeze moving to the SE during day was the prediction and proved to be correct. The breeze was very shifty throughout the day and finally settled in the early afternoon which made for more consistent sailing conditions to everyone’s enjoyment. The improvement in conditions enabled 15 races to be completed to the delight of the sailors and the PRO.

This was the first round of sailing in the series this year due to weather events and 2 postponements in recent months.

Congratulations to the Springfield Lakes team who won the honours on the day, from a stronger Redlands team with Paradise RYC coming home third.

The racing was made exciting by the conditions with had several race winners and the results showed some close racing and finishes throughout the field.

Another fine performance from Springfield Lakes member and current Qld Champion Mike Jefferys saw him take top honours on the day from fellow club member John heard in second place, and continuing on from his strong performance in the Qld Champs Andrew Gibbs sailing for Paradise RYC in third place.

The PRO on the day Mr Ian Ashe showed his experience as a race officer to have 15 races completed in the sometimes varying conditions and always providing a fair sailing course to test the skills of all the sailors. He was supported by Mr Ian Lobley who calculated the final results and enabled a presentation to the winners at the end of the day. He also provided videos of the races. Thank you to these gentlemen.

The event was made possible by the efforts of the Redlands Radio Sailing Club and its volunteer members who gave their time to help organise and ensure the event ran smoothly.

The RRSC would like to thank all the competitors for taking part in our clubs major event of the year and the friendly competitive nature in which the racing was carried out. All which made a successful DF65 days sailing.

We wish to acknowledge the Australian manufacturers of INOX products who provided participation trophies for all the competitors.

Don Horton  -  REDLANDS RADIO SAILING CLUB

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Rebuilding Paradise: The Bitter End Yacht Club’s Inspiring Comeback

By: Shannon Sinnard Destinations

Nestled at the northeastern tip of Virgin Gorda in the British Virgin Islands, the Bitter End Yacht Club has long been a premier maritime destination for sailors. For years, this iconic resort has drawn seafarers from around the globe, offering a serene escape amidst the sparkling waters of the Caribbean.

While the term “bitter end” often refers to the final part of a rope or chain, the phrase can also signify reaching the farthest point or the end destination of a long or difficult journey. The founders of the Bitter End Yacht Club chose this name to reflect both its geographical location and the spirit of adventure and perseverance inherent to sailors. For those who navigate to this end-of-the-line point, the BEYC stands as a haven where their journey culminates in beauty and tranquility. And, for many, it has long stood as a cherished traditional stop when exploring the waters of the BVI.

A Legendary Past, a Devastating Blow

In more recent years, the Bitter End’s name has embodied not only a physical destination but also a symbolic one. The iconic BEYC experienced a devastating blow in September 2017 when Hurricane Irma, one of the most powerful Atlantic hurricanes in history, wreaked havoc on the Caribbean, leaving the Bitter End Yacht Club in ruins. The devastation was profound, with buildings flattened, boats destroyed, and the once-thriving resort reduced to rubble.

While many Bitter End enthusiasts were devastated to hear of the destruction Hurricane Irma left in her wake, the iconic Bitter End Yacht Club kept its loyal fans updated via its website , detailing both the damage and community efforts to rebuild this beloved BVI institution.

Rising from the Ashes

Having now been rebuilt and risen from the devastation of Hurricane Irma, the Bitter End’s name resonates even more with the idea of enduring and overcoming challenges – much like the sailors who venture to the farthest reaches to get there.

After the storm, the Bitter End Yacht Club faced a long and arduous journey to recovery. But the spirit of resilience and determination among its community never wavered. Fast forward to today, and the Bitter End Yacht Club has not only been rebuilt but has been reimagined, standing as a testament to the power of recovery and the adventurous spirit that made it famous.

A New Era for the Bitter End Yacht Club

The reopening of the Bitter End Yacht Club marks a new chapter in its storied history. The rebuilt resort seamlessly blends the charm and character of its past with modern amenities and environmentally friendly practices. Here’s a glimpse of what visitors can now expect:

State-of-the-Art Marina

The heart of the Bitter End experience, the marina, has been meticulously restored and upgraded, offering deep-water slips that can accommodate yachts up to 200 feet, along with enhanced dockside services. Sailors can enjoy top-notch amenities including electrical hook-ups, fuel, ice, showers, rubbish disposal, and laundry facilities. Additionally, guests have access to the resort’s swimming pool. The BEYC also boasts one of the best deep-water anchorages in the Caribbean, providing many of the same amenities as the docking facilities.

Culinary Delights

Dining at the Bitter End is an experience in itself. The resort’s restaurants feature locally sourced ingredients, celebrating Caribbean flavors with a gourmet twist. Whether it’s a casual beachside meal or an elegant dinner under the stars, the culinary offerings are sure to delight every palate.

Adventure and Exploration

For those with a thirst for adventure, the resort offers a wide range of water sports, including sailing, kiteboarding, windsurfing, and snorkeling. Guests can explore the vibrant coral reefs, embark on a deep-sea fishing expedition, or simply enjoy a leisurely paddle around the bay.

Environmental Stewardship

The Bitter End Yacht Club has embraced sustainability as a core principle in its rebuilding efforts. The resort utilizes renewable energy sources, practices water conservation, and is committed to preserving the natural beauty of the BVI. Initiatives such as coral reef restoration and marine conservation programs are integral to its operations, ensuring that the Bitter End remains a pristine paradise for future generations.

A Bright Future

From its storied past to its recent resurgence, the Bitter End Yacht Club is more than just a return to business; it’s a celebration of resilience, community, and the indomitable spirit of the BVI. As it welcomes back old friends and new, the Bitter End promises to once again be the ultimate retreat for those who seek the thrill of the open sea and the tranquility of an island paradise in one of the most breathtaking locations on earth. 

BRINGING BACK THE BITTER END

AN INSIDE SAILING EDITION WEBINAR • HOSTED BY PETER ISLER

Join Richard and Lauren Hokin as they reminisce about the Bitter End Yacht Club’s past and discuss its exciting reopening as “Bitter End 2.0” after Hurricane Irma.

THE VIRGIN ISLANDS A CRUISING GUIDE

The Cruising Guide to the Virgin Islands is filled with detailed charts of the various anchorages, supported with colorful aerial photography in addition to piloting, anchoring and shoreside information. The Island Connections sections provide valuable telephone, email and website information to make finding island businesses, services and restaurants effortless. Additionally, the guide includes a free, fold-out color 27” x 17” planning chart covering the British and U.S. Virgin Islands. 

THE VIRGIN ISLANDS WATERPROOF CHART

Printed on two sides this new chart includes the U.S. & B.V.I. from St. Thomas to Anegada, including anchorage and mooring locations as well as GPS coordinates, sailing routes and distances between waypoints. Excellent for the cockpit and attractive enough to hang on the wall when you get home.

This planning chart is a duplicate of the one you receive in the guide with the exception of being waterproof.

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The best golf clubs in moscow: luxury, exclusivity, and entertainment.

By Walter Raymond

February 24, 2015

• The Best Golf Clubs in…

In Russia, the western concept of building architecturally beautiful golf courses filled with modern and luxurious amenities has found fertile ground. What was considered a frivolous pastime during the time of the Soviets has become the latest trend for the stylish set. These days, there are countless options around Moscow to practice golf, polo, ski, yachting, and other sports alongside 5-star hotels, luxurious country houses, and magnificent villas.

The game of golf is a sport that requires passion and expertise. It is also part of a culture that considers this pastime a synonym of social prestige and exclusivity. In recent years, the new Russian elite has turned to golf as a vehicle of integration in the era of globalization. Golf courses are also meeting and socializing spaces where Muscovite tycoons can relax and also seal business deals.

Golf Courses in Russia

The Moscow Country Club, Pestovo Golf & Yacht Club, Tseleevo Golf & Polo Club, and Zavidovo Golf Club, PGA National Russia are some of the most exclusive and elegant golf courses in Russia. Some of them have made it to the list of Top 15 golf clubs in the world, a source of great prestige for the country.

Moscow Country Club Moscow Country Club

The first 18-hole golf course built in Russia, Moscow Country Club, hosts the exclusive PGA European Tour. Located just eight miles from the city center, this luxurious facility was created by architect Robert Trent Jones Jr . The design takes advantage of a typical Russian birch and spruce forest to provide a natural environment of extraordinary beauty.

Pestovo Golf & Yacht Club Pestovo Golf & Yacht Club

The Pestovo Golf & Yacht Club is 18 miles from the heart of Moscow, close to historical monuments from the 17th and 18th centuries. Designed by famed architects Paul and Dave Thomas , this 18-hole course is part of a complex that includes a yacht club, an equestrian center, and a health and wellness facility. Pestovo Golf & Yacht Club is Russia’s version of a classic country club with multiple attractions.

Tseleevo Golf & Polo Club Tseleevo Golf & Polo Club

This park is among the best in Eastern Europe and was awarded the 2014 World Golf Award as the best golf course in Russia. Located 25 miles from Moscow, it is part of a vast complex featuring an 18-hole golf course, designed by Jack Nicklaus , a polo club and a mountain ski club with four tracks. The design combines classic Scottish, Alpine, and English features in a dreamy landscape.

Zavidovo Golf Club, PGA National Russia Zavidovo Golf Club, PGA National Russia

Less than 60 miles from Moscow, this golf course with a definite Scottish design is the only one in Russia recognized as a PGA (Professional Golfers’ Association) from Britain and Ireland. Located in an ecologically pristine area on the banks of the Volga River, the Zavidovo Golf Club embodies the spirit and appearance of the legendary Scottish golf courses. Its many springs and streams, hills, forests, swamps and lakes justify its reputation as a very demanding circuit. Last year, it entered the exclusive club of the 15 best golf courses in the world.   ■

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