Dear Members, Friends and Family,

The SsYC General Committee have been in close discussion over the past few days on how we should best respond to the COVID-19/Coronavirus situation.

Our role within the community as a central hub for activities and recreation is one we both cherish and take very seriously. We play a vital role in protecting everyone around us during this difficult time and our priority is the health and safety of our members, our guests, and the Somers community as a whole. Many of our volunteers and sea rescue crew are exposed to an elevated level of risk, and it would be unfair to expect them to continue to be at the club and on the water.

The overwhelming opinion is that we suspend all scheduled club activities effective immediately. As of today, we will be cancelling club racing for the rest of the season. This will include the use of the Pacers and Hobie Hawks for hire. If you have hired a club boat, please contact the Rear Commodore, so that we can arrange reimbursement.
Having said this, we see no reason at present to close access to club facilities for club members. We ask that in using the club facilities you observe the advice from the Government and health officials, including limiting direct contact as much as possible, and observing social distancing. We would also ask you limit the use of shared indoor spaces as much as possible including the use of the change room facilities. If possible, please change at home, and if using the facilities, wipe down any surfaces you may have touched or used.

Should you go sailing, please let someone onshore know when you are going out, and your expected time of return, and to contact the club should you not return on time.

Please refrain from coming to the club if you:
have been directed to be isolated or to self-quarantine
feel unwell
have recently been overseas, noting in particular the 14-day mandatory isolation period that the Australian Government has put into effect.

For further information, please contact the Commodore.

These are unprecedented events that we are a part of. Please use this time to focus on your health and well-being, and that of your loved ones and our broader community. We will continue to keep you updated and informed throughout, as we do our part to slow community outbreaks, and to protect and support the most vulnerable people.

Yours in sailing,
Sean Bly
Rear Commodore
Somers Yacht Club