royal yacht club suva

in these Rules referred to as “the Committee”;

A Yachting Committee;

A Protest Committee;

&

A House Committee.

(b)   (in these Rules referred to as “the Committee”) consisting of:-

(c)

Commodore (Chairperson)

Vice-Commodore

Rear-Commodore

Fleet Captain (Sail)

Fleet Captain (Power)

One (1) Member elected by Registered Sailing Yacht Owners as per to represent the Registered Sailing Yacht Owners

One (1) Member elected by Registered Powered Yacht Owners as per to represent the Registered Powered Yacht Owners;

&

Three (3) other Members elected or appointed as hereinafter provided.

The Committee shall have the power to legislate on any point or matter affecting the Club which may arise and which is not provided for in these Rules, and to appoint Sub-Committees to investigate and report on any matter, or for any special purpose or purposes, and to appoint any competent person to perform any particular duty for the Club, and to fix the honorarium, salary or wages payable to any officer or servant of the Club, and to exercise generally the usual powers of a Committee.

The Committee may from time to time, as it may deem desirable or expedient, make reasonable donation on behalf of the Club to an approved charity or some other cause.

The Committee, at every ordinary meeting thereof shall have power to transact all business within its province, but it shall not be competent for the Committee at any Special Meeting thereof to transact any business except such as shall in the opinion of at least two thirds (⅔) of the Members of the Committee present directly arise there-from.

The Committee may, from time to time as it may think expedient, and subject to , acquire land by purchase, lease or otherwise, and provide, purchase, construct or erect any buildings, slipway, etc., on any land belonging to or hereafter acquired for the Club and may dredge channels, and may demise, under let, exchange, sell or otherwise dispose of any such land or buildings or any part thereof and may alter, extend, add to, pull down or replace any such building or any part thereof, provided however, that no power contained in this Rule shall be exercised except pursuant to a Resolution of the Club passed by a two-thirds (⅔) majority in a General Meeting unless the expenditure or income involved is less than ten (10) thousand dollars (FJ$10,000).

The Committee shall, in addition to any other powers vested in it, have the power to borrow or raise money from time to time by issue of debentures, bonds, mortgages, bills, notes, receipts, or any other security founded or based on all or any of the property or rights of the Club or without any such security and at such a rate of interest and upon such terms as to priority and otherwise as the Committee shall think fit, but the powers of so borrowing or raising money shall not be exercised except pursuant to a Resolution of the Club passed by a two-thirds (⅔) majority in a General Meeting.

All Members of the Club, whether voting on such Resolution or not and all Members becoming Members of the Club after passing of such Resolution shall be deemed to have assented to and be bound by the same as if they had voted in favour of such Resolution.

All servants of the Club shall be appointed by the Committee or by its authority.

The members of the Committee are hereby indemnified by the Club against any bona fide claim or reward in respect of any liability incurred on behalf of the Club.

Five (5) Members shall form a quorum except as otherwise provided for in these Rules.

Each Office Bearer present at the meeting shall be entitled to one (1) vote on any question before any Committee and the Chairperson shall have an ordinary and, in the case of equality of voting, a casting vote.

Except where otherwise provided for in these Rules, all questions before any Committee Meeting shall be decided by a majority of the voters.

The Committee may, from time to time, adjourn its meetings as it thinks fit.

Vice-Commodore (Chairperson);

Fleet Captain Sail;

Fleet Captain Power;

One (1) Member elected by Registered Sailing Yacht Owners as per to represent the Registered Sailing Yacht Owners;

One (1) Member elected by Registered Powered Yacht Owners as per to represent the Registered Powered Yacht Owners;

Starters or Time-Keepers (Sail and Power) shall be elected or appointed as hereinafter provided;

&

Two (2) other Members may be co-opted by the General Committee at the request of the Yachting Committee.

Four (4) Members shall form a quorum except as otherwise provided for in these Rules.

Each Office Bearer present at the meeting shall be entitled to one (1) vote on any question before the Committee and the Chairperson shall have an ordinary and, in the case of equality of voting, a casting vote.

Except where otherwise provided for in these Rules, all questions before any Yachting Committee Meeting shall be decided by a majority of the voters.

The Committee may, from time to time, adjourn its meetings as it thinks fit.

To see the proper care of all boat sheds, slip-ways, marinas, and the grounds adjacent thereto, mooring buoys, etc., and to see to the allotment of the same to Yacht Owners;

To supervise the use of all Club equipment and property used by Yacht Owners and Sailing Members, and to report any loss or damage sustained to the next General Committee Meeting.

The Yachting Committee shall have the power to extend a sum not exceeding five hundred Dollars (FJ$500) for any work immediately necessary without reference to the General Committee, but shall report the circumstances to the next Committee Meeting;

To supervise slipping arrangements for all craft, appointing each craft a particular place that it may occupy, and stipulating the length of time that such craft may remain in the position;

To see that the Starting and Finishing lines, and all buoys and other marks on the courses are properly defined and in the correct position;

To see that the Yachting Rules are adhered to;

To nominate certain Members to the Protest Committee.

To supervise generally matters appertaining to aquatic activities;

To prepare in advance a schedule showing proposed Yachting activities for the year and submit same to the General Committee for approval prior to the beginning of the racing season.

To frame By-Laws relating to the use and care of Club property under its charge for submission to the General Committee.

To report monthly to the General Committee and to make any observation or recommendations deemed advisable.

ANNUAL REPORT: The Chairperson of the Yachting Committee shall submit a report at the Annual General Meeting on the activities of Yachting for the past season.

Fleet Captain Sail (Chairperson);

&

Two (2) other Members nominated by the Yachting Committee.

The procedure for protest and appeals shall be incorporated in the Sailing Instructions.

CONFLICT OF INTEREST:

No Officer or Member who is personally involved in a protest shall sit on the Protest Committee during an inquiry in which the member is so involved and in such case the Yachting Committee shall appoint a competent person or persons to act in his/her or their places.

UNAVAILABILITY:

Should any Member or Members of the Protest Committee be ill or otherwise not available to sit on such Committee during an inquiry the Yachting Committee shall appoint a competent person or persons to act in his/her or their stead.

In the absence of a National Body, should an appeal be lodged, the Yachting Committee shall appoint an additional two (2) Members to the Protest Committee.

The decision of the enlarged Committee shall be final.

The details of the protest and/or appeal shall be displayed in the Club Notice Board.

The Yachting Committee may appoint assistants to the Handicappers, Starters and Time-Keepers for duty during a regatta or such other occasions as may be deemed necessary.

Rear-Commodore ;

&

Three (3) “other” Members of the Committee mentioned in , elected or appointed as hereinafter provided;

&

In addition, two (2) other Members may be co-opted by the Committee, at the request of the House Committee.

Three (3) Members shall form a quorum.

Each Office Bearer present at the meeting shall be entitled to one (1) vote on any question before the House Committee and the Chairperson shall have an ordinary and, in the case of equality of voting, a casting vote.

Except where otherwise provided for in these Rules, all questions before any House Committee Meeting shall be decided by a majority of the voters.

The Committee may, from time to time, adjourn its meetings as it thinks fit.

The House Committee shall have general charge of the Club House and grounds adjacent thereto.

It shall have authority to expend a sum not exceeding five hundred dollars (FJ$500) for any work immediately necessary without reference to the General Committee, but shall report the circumstances to the next General Committee Meeting.

To prepare and submit through the Rear-Commodore, for the consideration by the General Committee, By-Laws relating to the management of the Club.

Such By-Laws shall in particular contain provisions relating to:-

Hours during which the Club House and Bar will be opened and closed;

Management of the restaurant;

Social Functions;

Junior Dances;

Management of the Bar; Any other matters deemed expedient.

To make arrangements for Social Functions;

To organise amusements and games;

To provide reports through the Rear-Commodore on the activities of the House Committee at each monthly meeting of the General Committee.

To provide reports through the Rear-Commodore for consideration by the General Committee regarding furniture, furnishings, etc., and in regard to matters affecting the Female Members and to any other matter involving the usefulness or comfort of the Club House.

Any Officer or Committee Member may be removed from Office by majority of two-thirds of the votes of Members at a Special General Meeting convened under .

Any Member of any Committee who has been suspended or expelled under , & , ipso facto, shall be removed from Office.

The Chairperson, once taking the Chair may retain that position during the meeting, notwithstanding that the Officer prescribed as aforesaid to be Chairperson may afterwards attend, unless the temporary Chairperson desires to relinquish the Chair.

In the case of an AGM/SGM where elections are held for Office Bearers/Flag Officers of the Club the incumbent Committee shall resign immediately before the election.

A Club Trustee will then oversee the election as Interim Chairperson.

If no Trustee is available, members present at the AGM/SGM shall elect an Interim Chairperson, by two thirds (⅔) majority, to chair the voting process – Rule 75(e).

The Interim Chairperson shall have the casting vote in the event of equality of votes – Rule 68(h).

Proxies cannot constitute part of the quorum.

In any other case it shall stand adjourned to the same day in the following week at the same place and time.

At the subsequent adjourned meeting the number of Full Members present shall form a quorum.

Voting at any Annual General, General or Extraordinary Meeting may be given either in person or by Proxy.

A Proxy must be appointed in writing (letter, fax or printed email) under the hand of the member entitled to vote.

No Voting Member is permitted to hold   proxy.

Where a Voting Member holds a proxy, the member shall be entitled to one vote in his/her capacity as proxy for the Voting Member whom the member represents in addition to his/her own vote as a Voting Member, provided that, for the purpose of determining whether there is a quorum for the Annual General, General or Extraordinary Meeting, the Voting Member holding a proxy shall be deemed as one person only.

Proxies cannot constitute part of the quorum.

Proxies cannot be made if the Full Member is not compliant with Rule 68(a).

Such instrument of proxy must be lodged with the General Manager of the Club not less than 48 hours before the time appointed for the holding of the General Meeting or adjourned meeting to which it refers, and in default shall be treated as invalid.

Except as otherwise provided for by these Rules, at any election and on all other questions before any Annual General, General or Extraordinary Meeting, each Member attending the meeting shall be entitled to one vote.

The Chairperson shall have an ordinary and, in the case of equality of voting, a casting vote.

Except as otherwise provided for by these Rules, the method of voting on all matters shall be a show of hands.

Except as otherwise provided by these Rules, all elections and all other questions at any General Meeting shall be decided by the majority of votes.

Wherein specified in these Rules that elections be decided by Secret Ballot the following shall apply:-

A secret ballot shall be decided by voters marking an appropriate ballot to indicate the name or names of the candidate or candidates on the ballot paper for whom they wish to vote;

The candidate who has obtained the greater number of votes shall be declared elected;

A ballot paper which is marked in any manner other than as prescribed shall be deemed invalid.

In the case of an equality of votes for candidates for Office in the Club, the election shall be decided by the drawing of lots.

The Scrutineers shall be elected by the Full Members present at any Annual General, General or Extraordinary Meeting.

In the event of the failure of the Members aforesaid to elect Scrutineers, the Chairperson of the meeting shall appoint Scrutineers.

If the Flag Officers present fail to make such determination, any five (5) Members of the Committee may decide.

Receiving from the Committee a report as to the concerns of the Club for the past year and the balance sheet and statement of receipts and expenditure made up to December 31 of the previous trading year;

Electing the Officers and Members of the Committee;

Electing an auditor;

Electing a Club Historian;

Transacting any other business specified in the notice convening the meeting and any other business which may be introduced by any Full Member with the permission of the Chairperson of the meeting whose decision shall be final.

The Annual General Meeting may be attended by any financial Member, however only Full Members may have the right to speak and vote on any matters arising unless, after approval by a majority vote of the Full Members present, specific Members other than Full Members may be invited to participate.

Minutes of each Annual General Meeting shall be posted on the Official Notice Board no later than two (2) weeks after the date of that meeting. Minuted must be available to all Members during office hours on request.

Copies of the Annual Report, balance sheet and statement of account together with a notification of the names of the candidates for election as Office Bearers and Auditor and any business directed by the Committee to be dealt with at the meeting, shall be posted on the Official Club Notice Board and mailed or emailed to all Full Members at least 7 days prior to the scheduled date of the Annual General Meeting.

Irregularities in connection with the requirements of this Rule shall not invalidate any of the proceedings of any Annual General Meeting or any election or any other business carried out thereat unless before the close of such meeting the Chairperson of the meeting shall decide or the Members present shall resolve that the interests of the Members or any of them may be prejudiced by such irregularities in which case the Chairperson shall declare the meeting and any election or other business carried out thereat to be invalid and of no effect.

As such notices are received they shall be placed on the Official Club Notice Board.

As nominations are received they shall be posted on the Official Club Notice Board.

Such nominations must be signed by at least two (2) Full Members who shall propose such candidate.

Any candidate must be eligible (Rule 68(a)) and shall signify his/her assent to such nomination by affixing his/her signature thereto unless the candidate for office is unable to do so by reason of absence from Suva or illness, in which case a letter, fax or email indicating agreement to the nomination will suffice.

Immediately before the election of Office Bearers/Flag Officers at an AGM/SGM the incumbent Committee shall resign.

One of the Club’s Trustees will then oversee the election as Interim Chairperson.

If no Trustee is available, an Interim Chairperson shall be elected, by two thirds ⅔ majority, from among the eligible Full Members present, to chair the voting process.

Members on the Ballot and just-resigned Committee members are ineligible to stand for this position.

For this election, only eligible Full Members present may vote. No proxy vote shall be counted.

During the election of the three (3) Flag Officers and three (3) “other” Members of the General Committee mentioned in , all eligible Full Members (Rule 68(a)) shall be entitled to vote.

All Officers of the Club and Members of the General Committee shall be elected by secret ballot at the Annual General Meeting except where the number of nominations does not exceed the number of vacancies for any position, in which case the nominees shall be declared elected.

Such notice, which shall specify the object of the meeting, shall be posted on the Official Club Notice Board and mailed or emailed to each Full Member.

At such Meetings the same Rules that apply to those Rules set out for an Annual General Meeting shall apply except for what is set out in this Rule.

At such meeting no business shall be transacted other than that mentioned in the notices specific to that meeting.

The Committee shall also, in like manner, call a Special General Meeting upon receiving the written requisition of not less than fifteen per centum (15%) of the Full Members of the Club.

Notice of such meeting shall be posted on the Official Club Notice Board for not less than three (3) calendar months immediately preceding the date scheduled for the meeting.

A copy of such notice shall also be sent to all Full Members of the Club by mail or email within ten (10) days from the time the notice is posted in the Club House.

The same Rules as are set out for an Annual General Meeting shall apply except for what is set out in this Rule.

The votes of Members equal in number to at least two-thirds (⅔) of the number of Full Members of the Club shall be necessary to carry the proposition for the dissolution.

In the event of the dissolution of the Club the surplus assets (if any) shall be disposed of in such a manner as the Members present and voting at the meeting aforesaid shall decide.

The guests to be invited on a Visitor’s Day are at the discretion of the Committee.

The Committee may make special regulations for any particular function and if a notice relating thereto is posted in the Club House such regulation shall have the force of a By-Law for the duration of such function.

All guests attending any social function or event at the Club House have the responsibility show respect for the Club and to abide by the same Rules and By-Laws as all Members and Visitors of the Club.

The Club reserves the right to apply a Cover Charge to any function as should be required.

This Notice Board shall be known as and referred to as the “Official Club Notice Board”.

Every notice required to be posted in the Club House shall be deemed to be properly posted if affixed to or adjacent to the Official Club Notice Board.

No notice shall be posted on the Official Club Notice Board which does not bear the signature of the Commodore or the General Manager.

A notice which has been posted on the Official Club Notice Board shall be deemed to be sufficient notice to all members of the Club of the matter or matters mentioned therein except as otherwise provided for by these Rules.

The contents of the Suggestion Box shall be produced to the Committee at each meeting thereof.

Any Member may address a letter containing suggestions to the General Manager who shall bring them to the notice of the Committee.

The Commodore and the General Manager;

The Commodore and a Member of the Committee who shall be appointed in writing in that behalf by the Committee.

The General Manager and a Member of the Committee who shall be appointed in writing in that behalf by the Committee.

If the General Manager is not present for the day this task shall be carried out by the leading staff member at the end of the day.

Daily diarising of events, weather conditions, opening/closing times, functions, socials and any other interesting, unusual or pertinent incidents shall be summarised.

Any incidents that could result in sanctions or expulsion for any Member, Visitor, Guest or Staff shall also be recorded.

Any Flag officer or Full Member may enter any events in the Club Day book as the member sees fit.

Written application for approval must be made to the Committee by the prospective owner, operator or proprietor that describes, in detail, the objects and intention for which the area shall be used, the specific area, the time frame the building or area is to be utilised, the number of staff or employees, the proposed hours of business and any other details that may apply. These details of operation shall be documented in a written, notarised and legally acceptable agreement or contract and signed by the owner, operator or proprietor and the authority of the Committee.

Any commercial enterprise within the Club premises must be beneficial to and relate in harmony with any Object and activity of the Club.

Any commercial enterprise must comply with any law or rule that applies to that business activity under the Laws of the Republic of Fiji and any statutes of the Suva City Council.

Any owners, operators or proprietors of such commercial enterprises must be or become Full or Associate Members of the Club and shall enjoy all the benefits and privileges that applies to their category of Membership.

Any staff members or employees of said commercial operations are the responsibility of the owner, operator or proprietor of that business and are subject to all Club Rules and By-Laws .

Any staff members or employees of said commercial operations may apply for membership of the club. Until they do so and are accepted by the Committee NO employee or staff member shall enjoy the rights and privileges of a Club Member and may not enjoy use of Club facilities unless signed in by a member subject to the same conditions for Visitors as set out in the Rules. Unsigned or non-member staff members or employees must confine their activities to their place of employment.

By signing any lease, rental or hire agreement or contract the owner, operator or proprietor of said commercial enterprises becomes a “tenant” and indicates his/her submission to and acceptance of all Rules and By-Laws and authority of the Club whether it be tacit or specified.

By accepting or entering into an agreement or contract with an owner, operator, proprietor or tenant of any said commercial enterprise the Club agrees to abide by any current law of the Republic of Fiji Islands that applies to tenancy agreement unless that law directly contradicts or nullifies or dilutes the Rules and By-Laws of the Club agreed to by signing or entering into any aforementioned agreement or contract in which case the Club Rules and By-Laws shall hold precedence.

The Club reserves the right to deny entry to the Club grounds to any staff member or employee of any business or commercial enterprise established within the Club premises for any reason and without recourse.

Should a dispute, disagreement or conflict arise with the Club, the owner, operator or proprietor, as a Full or Associate Member, may address the matter or appeal as prescribed in these Rules.

Any commercial enterprise may only make use of the defined area for which they pay rent, hire or lease payments.

Any commercial enterprise may not obstruct, hinder or in any way disrupt the normal day to day operation of the Club and its Members, Visitors, Guests, staff or employees.

Any Owner, operator, proprietor or tenant who does not fully discharge his/her liabilities to the Club within an acceptable time frame and in accordance to any Rule as set out in these Rules shall be deemed in default and subject to any action or recourse available to the authority of the Club and/or the Committee.

Any amendment, replacement suspension to a Rule, introduction of a new Rule or the abandonment of an old Rule can only be done so with the sanction of a two-thirds (⅔) majority of the votes at a General Meeting, nor unless the notice convening the meeting shall specify the proposed repeal, alteration, suspension, or new Rule.

No notice of motion affecting these Rules or any By-Laws made by the Committee which has been duly considered and rejected shall be brought forward again during the same year unless by or with the consent of the Committee.

The decision of the Committee on the construction or interpretation of any Rule or By-Law shall be conclusive and binding on all Members of the Club, unless and until set aside or varied at a General Meeting of the Club.

The Rules and By-Laws of the Club shall be open to inspection to all Members and copies shall be supplied upon such terms as the Committee, from time to time, may direct.

A copy of the Rule Book – whether in printed form or by electronic media – shall be available to all Members at all times but subject to any amendments or additions specified in sub-paragraph (a) of this Rule that have yet to be published.

A copy of the Rules in digitised form (PDF or Word Document) shall be deemed as an acceptable copy of the Rules but subject to any amendments or additions specified in sub-paragraph (a) of this Rule that have yet to be published.

Upon the election or re-admission of a Member, the General Manager shall notify that fact to him and shall send him a copy, either by mail or email, of the Rules and By-Laws of the Club.

Such payment shall be deemed as declaration of his/her submission to the Rules and By-Laws of the Club and to the obligations and liabilities imposed thereunder.

Honorary Members and Visitors, by signing the respective Registers, also are entitled to the specific benefits and privileges, as defined in these Rules, and declare their submission to the same Rules and By-Laws and to the same obligations and liabilities imposed hereunder.

Any incidence that involves violence or abusive behaviour of any kind toward any person is strictly forbidden and will result in immediate expulsion of the persons involved and their subsequent obligation to present themselves to a Hearing of the Committee should that person be any category of Member.

Gambling of any kind is forbidden on the Club premises unless it is for the expressed purpose of raising funds for the Club and the necessary permit or licence has been obtained from the competent authorities under any written law.

Notwithstanding the provisions of paragraph (c) of this Rule Membership Draws and/or lotteries may be organised with the approval of the Committee and any relevant government authority.

The funds of the Club shall not be used to pay the fines of Members who have been convicted in Court.

No Member shall borrow in the name of or pledge the credit of the Club.

The Club shall not indulge in any political activity or allow its funds and/or premises to be used for political purposes.

No Member, Visitor or Guest shall criticize directly or otherwise censure any employee or member of the staff of the Club. Any such criticism of an employee or staff member of the Club shall be directed to the General Manager, Office Bearer or Flag Officer privately and confidentially.

No member shall give the address of the Club in any advertisement, or use the Club address for business purposes unless authorised by the Committee.

The Club shall not raise funds from the public for whatever purpose without the prior written approval of the Committee.

The Club practises the and reserves the right to refuse service of alcoholic beverages, drinks, or liquor at the discretion of the General Manager, a Flag Officer, a Committee Member or Bar Attendant without recourse, to any Member, Visitor or Guest.

No provisions, fermented beverages, wines, or liquor shall be sent out of the Club to the order of, or for the use of, any Member or any other person unless with the sanction of the Committee.

No provisions, fermented beverages, wines, or liquor shall be supplied to any person other than a Member, Visitor or Guest as defined in .

No provisions, fermented beverages, wines, or liquor shall be brought into the Club for consumption on the Club Premises other than those sanctioned by the Committee.

Junior Members are forbidden to enter the Bar, and other Members are forbidden, under pain of expulsion from the Club, to supply Juniors or any person under eighteen (18) years of age with provisions, fermented beverages, wines, or liquor.

On the occasion of a Junior Dance no provisions, fermented beverages, wines, or liquor shall be consumed other than in the Bar.

Fermented beverages, wines or liquor sold unopened to Members for the purpose of stocking their Yachts are not to be opened and consumed on the Club Premises.

If any item is required urgently on loan, permission to remove it must first be obtained from the General Manager. Any such item must be signed for before being removed and the borrower accepts full responsibility to return or replace the item in good working order within a reasonable time frame.

The Committee, may, from time to time, and for good reason, lend or hire property of the Club.

Any Member breaking or injuring any article or other property belonging to or in the use of the Club, shall pay the General Manager the necessary cost of replacing or repairing such article or property, such cost to be fixed by the Committee.

When appropriate, it is advisable to quote the Rule or By-Law number that has been violated. This will greatly ease the disciplinary process.

If any Member, Visitor or Guest shall wilfully infringe any of the Rules and By-Laws of the Club, or persistently infringe any of the Sailing Rules, or in any way conducts himself either inside or outside the Club House or on the Club Premises or elsewhere in a manner unbecoming of a Member, the member shall be liable to suspension or expulsion.

Any violation of any Rules or By-Laws in this regard shall be immediately recorded in the Club Day Book – – describing details of the incident, the date, the time, any persons involved and any witnesses to the incident.

In the case of an Honorary Member, the Flag Officers shall, after investigation, take such action as they consider fit, and report this action to the Committee at the earliest convenient opportunity.

In the case of a Full Member, Associate Member, Temporary Associate Member, Country Member, Supernumerary Member, Student Member or Junior Member, any charge in that behalf shall, in the first instance, be submitted in writing to the Committee by a Member, or if the matter of the charge shall come under the notice of the Committee in any other way, by the General Manager.

The Committee shall forward to the Member accused a copy of the charge made against him and call upon him to answer such charge in person before the Committee on a specified date not later than one (1) month from the date of his/her receipt of the notice, or in writing to the Committee within the same period.

If the Committee has sufficient positive knowledge to enable it to decide, and it does so decide, that the gravity or nature of a case justifies the immediate suspension of a Member, it may suspend such Member from Membership pending any investigation or appeal as provided for herein.

The Committee shall, after an investigation of the charge, decide what action is to be taken.

If the Committee decides that its investigation shows the Member to be unworthy to continue as a Member the member shall be called upon to resign his/her membership by way of formal notice within fourteen (14) days after his/her notification of such decision.

Any member who is to be terminated or dismissed and has been given a formal notice in writing by the club must respond within 3 working days to the allegation upon receipt of the notice.  However, if the member fails to respond within 3 days it will be sufficient that the member has agreed to the reasons of termination or dismissal.

In the event of such Member refusing or failing within this period to resign or to exercise his/her right of appeal as hereinafter provided the member shall forthwith cease to be a Member and his/her name shall be struck from the list of Members of the Club and details of the Member’s expulsion recorded against his/her name.

In the event of such member responding to the official notification of termination of membership the following will apply:

A member will have a right to fair hearing before the Committee prior to taking any further action against the Club.

A member may choose to mediate the dispute between the club and member as follows:

i.          Either at the club;

ii.          At the Fiji Mediation Center … or …

iii.          Any other mediator selected by the club and the member mutually.

The cost of mediation will be borne by the grieving member absolutely as the club is operated by volunteers.

No Officer, Committee Member or Member who is personally involved in a complaint shall sit on the Committee during an inquiry in which the member is so involved. In such case the Committee shall appoint a competent Full Member to act in his/her or their places should the need arise.

The Member so called upon to resign shall have the right to appeal to an Extraordinary General Meeting which shall be called (on receipt from such Member of written notification of appeal) by the Committee in conformity with .

Due notice of such meeting shall be given to the Member who may appear in person to submit his/her defence to the charge brought against him.

The opinion of such Special General Meeting shall be obtained by ballot, when, if a majority of the Members present and voting at the meeting decide that the matter has merited expulsion the member shall forthwith cease to be a Member and shall be informed to that effect in writing by the General Manager.

If the Committee decides that its investigation shows that the Member should not be expelled but should be suspended from Membership, the Committee may suspend such Member for any specified period not exceeding six (6) months and the decision of the Committee shall be final and shall not be subject to appeal.

A Member’s suspension or expulsion shall be without prejudice to his/her liability for all subscriptions or other moneys due to the Club, and such suspended or expelled Member shall have no right of action or other remedy against the Club or any Member thereof in respect of such suspension or expulsion.

An application for Membership of the Club by a former Member who ceased to be a Member under the provisions of shall not be considered until a date to be determined by the Committee after consultation with the Government of Fiji. Should such former Member be again elected to Membership of the Club the member shall be re-elected in accordance with the provisions of , but as qualified by of this Rule.

The applicants for Membership referred to in paragraphs and of this Rule may not be elected to their former Class of Membership. The Class of Membership to which they are elected is subject to the sole discretion of the Committee.

The Committee may, after determining that a Member is in default of payment of any fees and/or in contradiction to any of these Rules regarding any Yacht using any Club Facility, and after giving 30 days notice of such and that notice has been ignored or not acted upon may deem the Yacht unauthorised and remove or dispose of the Yacht by sale or otherwise as it deems fit.

Move the Yacht and/or trailer to any part of the Club premises without being liable for any loss or damage to the Yacht and/or trailer howsoever caused;

Upon giving one (1) month’s notice require the member or former Member to collect and remove the Yacht and/or trailer from the Club premises or grounds;

Upon giving three (3) months’ notice in writing by to the member or former Member at his/her last known address shown in the register of members sell the Yacht and/or trailer and deduct any monies due to the Club (whether arrears of subscription or facility fees or dinghy park fees or otherwise);

If the Yacht and/or trailer is unsaleable (in the reasonable opinion of the Committee), may, after giving notice in writing as aforesaid, dispose of the Yacht and/or trailer in any manner the Committee may think fit and deem the cost of doing and any arrears as aforesaid to be a debt owing to the Club by the Member or former Member.

The Club reserves the right to charge storage for the Yacht and/or trailer until such time as the owner collects the Yacht and/or trailer or until notice has been served under clause (b) and (c) above.

PROVIDED THAT in each case that proper evidence is available to show that reasonable steps have been taken by the Committee to trace a Member or former Member and that when and if the Yacht and/or trailer is sold the proceeds of sale (where these exceed the amount of any indebtedness by the Member or former Member to the Club) shall be placed in a bank deposit account and retained against the eventuality of a claim by the owner (whether the member be the said member or former member) for a period of six (6) years.

Any Yacht/Trailer that contravenes requirements for Club registration, Club Rules and/or Club By-Laws.

A Yacht and/or trailer located in the dinghy or trailer park without the consent of the Committee.

A Yacht on the Hard Standing without the consent of the Committee.

A Yacht which occupies a mooring without the consent of the Committee.

A Yacht and/or trailer located otherwise than in its properly allocated space;

A Yacht and/or trailer that remains in the dinghy park for more than one (1) month after any date advised by the Committee by which Yachts and/or trailers must be removed;

A Yacht and/or trailer which is the property of a Member or former Member which remains on Club premises after any fees payable to the Club by any Member or former Member (whether by way of arrears of subscription or facilities fees, dinghy park fees or otherwise) are more than one (1) month in arrears.

In addition to the powers set out above to move, sell or dispose of Yachts and/or trailers the Club shall enforce a lien over Members’ or former Members’ Yachts and/or trailers parked on the Club’s premises in respect of all monies due to the Club, whether in respect of arrears of facilities fees or subscriptions or otherwise and shall be entitled to retain possession of the Yacht and/or trailer until such time as all monies due to the Club have been paid in full.

The security and safety of all yachts and equipment, whether moored, trailered, cradled, stored in lockers and/or utilising docks is the responsibility of each respective owner.

Wednesday November 14 , 1973 : B. Maesepp, Commodore.

Reprinted in 1990 incorporating all amendments approved from 1973 to 1990 in accordance with Rule 111 (b) and renumbered for ease of reference.

Thursday January 31 , 1991 : R. A. Storck, Commodore.

Reprinted without amendment or change – Rules 1 – 114 inclusive.

Saturday November 30 , 1996 : Albert A. W. Threadingham, Commodore.

The 2014 Rules were adopted as the Rules of the ROYAL SUVA YACHT CLUB at the Annual General Meeting of Full Members on the 26 day of February, 2014. Mr Mark Hirst, Commodore.

The 2015 Rules were adopted as the Rules of the RSYC at the Annual General Meeting of Full Members on the 31 day of March, 2015. Mr Mark Hirst, Commodore.

The 2021 Rules were adopted as the Rules of the ROYAL SUVA YACHT CLUB at the Annual General Meeting of Full Members on the 23 day of March, 2021. Mr Spencer Ah Sam, Commodore.

The 2022 Rules were adopted as the Rules of the ROYAL SUVA YACHT CLUB at the Annual General Meeting of Full Members on the 28 day of March, 2022. Mr Spencer Ah Sam, Commodore.

The General Manager shall keep a Yacht Register wherein shall be entered particulars of all Yachts owned by Members of the Club.

Registration of a Yacht is a prerequisite to entitlement to use Club Facilities.

Owners must be either a Full Member – – or an Associate Member – – to apply for Yacht Registration.

The information collected is also required to “Class” a Yacht.

Yachts may be used as “live-aboard” accommodation but must comply with .

The Owner shall inform the General Manager in writing the following details of his/her Yacht/s’:-

The vessel must clearly display the Name of the Vessel on both sides of the bow =/> 70 mm high.

“SUVA” & “RSYC” must be displayed at the stern of the vessel.

MSAF Registration Number – Boatmaster’s Name & Boatmaster’s Licence # (BML).

Hull Type/Number

Construction Material

Rig

Tonnage

Propulsion :-  Type; Engine (if any) ; Kilowatts (H.P.)

Any alteration to any Yacht, affecting her size, weight, sail area, horsepower rig or any other particulars required by the Committee shall be notified in writing to the General Manager as soon as is practicable.

Information supplied to the General Manager by a Yacht Owner shall be verified by the Yachting Committee.

The Committee may remove from the Yacht Register any Yacht which has not been , or which fails to qualify under & ;

All Yachts registered with the Club shall carry a name, number or distinguishing mark in accordance with MSAF regulation with the addition of the yacht’s name or distinguishing mark  and the letters “SUVA” & “RSYC” on the stern in letters of a minimum of 50mm high.

All charter Yachts registered shall give the General Manager a copy of the relevant charter agreement. The Charterer will become the Registered Yacht Owner, however the member will not be permitted voting rights under , , 3 & .

Sailing Yachts and Powered Yachts which, if registered under the British Merchant Shipping Act, 1884, would be eligible to apply for Admiralty Warrant to fly the defaced Blue Ensign;

Sailing Yachts and Powered Yachts of not less than 5 metres in length and which are propelled by an engine of not less than 15 Kilowatts .

Sailing Yachts of between 3 metres and 5 metres and Powered Yachts of between 4 metres and 5 metres in length.

Sailing Yachts of less than 3 metres length and Powered Yachts of less than 4 metres in length which have been recommended by the Yachting Committee for registration with the Club.

Boats propelled by oars, paddles or outboard engines of less than 15 kilowatts which are normally used as tenders to a Registered Yacht, or Sailing or Powered Yachts not recommended by the Sailing Committee for registration as Class D Yachts. A separate list of such boats will be kept in a book other than the Yachting Register.

In the case of a Yacht which is so rigged and fitted that it is capable of being propelled by sail or by power or by both, the Yachting Committee shall, after consultation with the owner of such Yacht, make recommendation to the General Committee as to whether such Yacht should be classified as a Sailing Yacht or as a Powered Yacht; but not withstanding the classification of such Yacht, the owner may enter it for Sailing Yacht events and Powered Yacht events if the Yachting Committee concurs in such entries.

The classification described in this Rule are only for Club registration purposes in determining Membership and voting rights and are not intended to be a substitute for internationally or nationally recognised Yacht classes, or classifications for racing purposes.

See for further clarification of these Rules

(b)   When not racing, Yachts shall obey the international Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea.

(c)    Yachts when not participating in a race are expected to keep clear of Yachts racing.

Monday                          08.00 hrs to 22.00 hrs

Tuesday                          08.00 hrs to 22.00 hrs

Wednesday                    08.00 hrs to 22.00 hrs

Thursday                        08.00 hrs to 22.00 hrs

Friday                             08.00 hrs to 23.59 hrs

Saturday                         08.00 hrs to 23.59 hrs

Sunday                           08.00 hrs to 23.59 hrs

Special Functions          Closing time 02.00 hrs

Formal Functions          Closing time 03.00 hrs

(a)

With the approval of a Committee Member and the consent of the bar staff the bar may be kept open beyond regular posted hours provided payments of overtime are made for each bar attendant in attendance, and their transport home is provided by the person or persons requesting the extended hours.

Times of opening are posted at the Bowser.

However, the Club has been known to vary the opening hours in the case of an event (e.g.: Game Fishing Completion) at the request of members.

Suitable footwear is mandatory at all times.

Clothing that is torn, dirty or offensive is not acceptable.

Daytime beach wear with an appropriate shirt, blouse or top is acceptable before sunset.

After sunset, dress requirements are to be in conformity with acceptable local social standards.

Hats are expected to be removed within the Club House. (This by-law originates from old Navy custom where members of the Navy are required to salute an officer wearing a hat. When relaxing inside a building hats were removed and a salute was not required).

Dress for formal functions shall be appropriate to accepted social standards.

Any activity in this regard is to be in conformity with and must be respectful of other Members, Visitors and Guests.

Dogs on the Club property must be on a leash and under full control of its owner at all times.

The Verandah and Bure Bar and outside areas of the Club (except around the Fuel Bowser) are excluded.

Children under the age of eight (8) years of age are not permitted in the Club after 2000 hrs.

Junior Members and their guests are not permitted in the Club after 2000 hrs unless attending a function especially arranged for them.

Children playing in the Children’s’ Playground must be supervised by responsible adults at all times.

While all care is taken the Club accepts no responsibility for Children suffering any injuries or accidents while making use of the Playground facility.

All Yachts must be registered with the Club within one month of launching, or change of ownership. An appropriate form is available from the Club General Manager.

Inspection by a Safety Inspector is a prerequisite to registration and shall be carried out annually.

The R.S.Y.C. minimum requirements for safety shall form the basis of inspections, and shall form part of, and attach to, these By-Laws.

Any changes, which affect the “registered description” or safety of a Yacht must be brought to the notice of the Club General Manager, who shall advise the Safety Inspector accordingly.

Yacht Measurement: All vessels are to be measured in the following manner (see graphic). Bow Sprits and/or Anchor Chain Rollers are NOT to be included but duckboards and outboard motors are to be included in the measurement.

A label showing the owner’s name and telephone number or address shall be attached in a position where it may be clearly seen.

At the beginning of each season and as necessary during the season the Yachting Committee shall prepare a roster showing the dates each Yacht will be required to be on duty and such roster shall be placed on the Official Club Notice Board.

If the owner of a Yacht is unable to carry out his/her duty on the day rostered the member must make his/her own arrangements with another Yacht Owner to carry out the duty on his/her behalf and the member must inform the Yachting Committee of the change. Failure to comply with this By-Law will be dealt with under .

The Duty/Rescue Yacht must have at least two (2) persons on board and they must report to the starter at least 30 minutes before the start of the first race of the day which they are covering.

The Duty/Rescue Yacht is required to stand by the Sailing Yachts participating in races sponsored by the Club and render such assistance as may be necessary in the event of mishaps, calms etc.

At least 10 m length of rope for towing should be carried.

An allowance of fuel which, in the opinion of the Powered Yacht Owners Representative is compatible with the type of Powered Yacht and duties performed shall be granted to each Duty/Rescue Yacht.

A starter roster will be posted on the Yachting Notice Board at least one month in advance of duty being required.

Yachts must not be left unattended at the Refuelling and Embarkation Berths and must be manned at all times by a Member and/or person who is competent and able to safely move that Yacht should the need arise. A penalty will occur for disregarding this By-Law.

Trailers and/or trailerable yachts obstructing the slipways unnecessarily and without prior permission of the Club General Manager and/or Committee shall incur a fine and may be answerable under the terms of .

No equipment, rubbish, dinghies or any other items are to obstruct any thoroughfares on the Trot, Pontoon, Slipways or any other area of the Club.

No areas of the club premises, other than the Hardstand area, are to be used for major repairs to vessels.

A waiting list will be posted by the General Manager showing dates booked.

Leases on facilities are available for single use only; i.e.: One (1) Yacht per mooring allocation; One (1) Yacht per Hardstand allocation; and so on. If a Member uses his/her facility allocation for more than a single instance for any period of time the member will incur the current cost prescribed for temporary use of that facility per day.

A member taking up a facility allocation at a time other than January 1 of each year shall pay a pro-rata rate as defined in .

Credits will be allocated on a reciprocal quarterly basis, upon relinquishing the lease of the facility as defined in .

If a Member fails to make use of the facility within 30 days of notification by the Club of being allocated this facility then the use of the facility is automatically forfeited. The lease will then be offered to the next Member on the waiting list for that facility. Any lease payments made for the facility will be refunded the pro rata residual – – if any) except for the initial quarter of that payment.

If a Member fails to make payment of the lease for the facility within 30 days of notification by the Club then the offer of the lease of the facility automatically expires. The lease will then be offered to the next Member on the waiting list for that facility.

The onus of payment is on the owner of the Yacht.

The Club retains the right to re-lease a facility immediately following the expiry of the aforementioned 30 days period without further action or recourse.

All yachts, trailers and/or other equipment are bound by the Rules and By-Laws of the Club and, in particular are subject to of these Rules.

Application can only be made by a Member on the Mooring Application Form to the Yachting Committee via the General Manager.

The Club will lease only to the Member applying for a period ending December 31 of that year.

Should there be no moorings available, the name of the applicant Member and the Yacht name will be placed on a waiting list on a “first come – first served” basis but subject to draft and length limitations.

The Club will provide a concrete mooring block. Should there be no riser chain supplied/left by the previous lessee, it is the Yacht Owner’s responsibility to provide his/her own riser chain, float and pontoon mooring lines to the satisfaction of the Yachting Committee. Minimum standards are available at the Club Office.

The mooring space belongs to the Club. The lessee with the Yacht named in his/her application only, and no other person may use or moor his/her Yacht in that space.

With the permission of the lessee the Yachting Committee may allocate the mooring on a temporary basis to accommodate an urgent need.

If the lessee vacates his/her mooring or is away on a cruise for an extended period the Club has the right to make use of his/her mooring space on a temporary basis as it sees fit. Mooring lessees must notify the Office of the dates their mooring will be vacated.

In the case of Joint or Co-Ownership (a yacht co-owned by two or more persons) all lessees must be members. All co-owners must be registered with Club management in writing . No lessee can gain single owner lease conditions of a mooring if the member has been a co-owner for less than 12 months. If other co-owners leave or sell their share of the yacht to one remaining owner, that owner must have been on the Club records as co-owner for at least 12 months. If co-ownership is less than 12 months the relevant mooring space will be made available to the next person on the moorings waiting list ( ).

Should the Yacht owner sell his/her Yacht the mooring space reverts immediately to the Club and is allocated to the next Member on the waiting list for that facility except for the following:-

If the owner sells his/her present Yacht and purchases another Yacht, the leased mooring reverts to the Club and the owner is entitled to a refund of lease fees to the end of December, however, under the Yacht Owner may retain his/her mooring space if the member replaces his/her Yacht within 30 days.

Facilities include: Steel and wooden cradles: Careening Bay: Shed Space: Hardstand: Hi-Ab Crane: Locker.

Note: After two (2) weeks the hire rate on the cradles shall be increased to three (3) times the normal daily hire rate, unless prior approval for alternative hire rates has been obtained from the Yachting Committee.

Each Yacht must have a hull length of at least 7.5 m.

Such Yachts must have the following:

Extended range built in fuel tanks

Built in water tanks

Toilet

Full Galley

Built in accommodation

The Club will provide a riser from the Trot. Club Members will be required provide their own mooring and float, bow line and stern mooring ropes crossed to holding positions.

The beam of each Yacht shall not exceed 3 m (app.).

The Club will provide a 16 mm riser from Trot approximately 2 m long. This trot and riser will be located approximately 14 m from the floating pontoon.

Club Members will be required to provide their own bow line and float and stern mooring ropes crossed to holding cleats.

All Members of the Crew/Passengers including Registered Owners of Visiting Yachts wishing to rent a mooring in this section of the floating pontoon must register and remain registered with the Club for the duration of the rental.

Visiting Yachts must be registered with the Club before being entitled to participate in RSYC scheduled races.

Moorings will be allocated on first come – first served basis. A waiting list may be kept for the purpose of regulating the order of mooring.

Fees are based on a per person, per monthly basis. Costs can be obtained on application to the RSYC Office.

Should a Cruising Member wish to make use of the Club Facilities (Showers, Laundry etc.) and refundable Key Bond must be paid.

The Club will provide a 25 mm riser 3 m long from trot and 2 m mooring chain of 16 mm at which a float will be provided. The riser will be approximately 14 m from the edge of the floating pontoon.

Visiting Yachts will be required to provide all other attachments forward and aft.

The Club reserves the right to refuse rental of these moorings where it considers the Yacht is too large.

It is not intended that this area be used to store Yachts.

Each Yacht must be registered with the Club and have a current Safety Certificate (of Examiners Rating).

Each Yacht must be of a suitable size to fit marked out spaces so as not to hinder any other Yacht on this area.

Each Yacht must have a suitable trolley or means of launching and securing.

Trailers must be identifiable to Club Management. A tag, plate or similar identifier must be apparent on each trailer. Details of the owner’s name, contact details and the name of the yacht it is paired with must be clearly visible and legible on each trailer.

Trailer storage and mooring spaces are independent. If a Member requires a mooring space trailer storage, both of the leased assets must be paid for. However, if a Member who has a mooring space needs to trailer his/her yacht short term** approval may first be obtained from Club Management. The mooring may be used by the Club as a temporary mooring until that yacht is returned. No extra fees will be levied.

A trailered yacht may not use a mooring space without express, written permission from the Committee and must pay any relevant fees.

Trailers will not be permitted to use the car park space, or left on the hard stand or launching areas, and must be confined to the trailer park only. (The exception being trailers being used as trolleys for Yachts leasing hard stand space).

Trailers and/or Yachts may be moved by the Club at any time to the trailer park. Any costs incurred will be charged to the registered Member – .

While all care will be taken the Club accepts no responsibility for any damage that may occur to the trailer or Yacht during any movement.

·       * Penalty is subject to change without notice.

** “Short Term” means 1 week or 7 days.

Any trailer and/or Yacht left on the concrete ramps or in the car park for a period longer than 1 hour will incur a penalty of FJ$50.00* by Notice in writing to the registered owner Member.

The trailer park areas are as defined by the map: Yellow denotes trailer park & red denotes the hard stand areas.

Priority will be awarded to Mooring/Trailer Park space lessees.

Non-Members and/or Members in default or Yachts deemed ‘unauthorised’ shall not lease any locker space.

Lockers shall not be used to store flammable, toxic, illegal or unsavoury items.

Members wishing to use their yacht as “live-aboard” accommodation must make written application to the Committee and complete the appropriate form.

“Live-Aboard” applications must be approved by the Committee.

“Live-Aboard” yachts may not discharge sewage or any other effluent/waste into the Club Marina.

“Live-Aboard” yachts must pay a monthly fee in addition to any mooring fees for their yacht as set by the Committee.

“Live-Aboard” yachts using shore power and water are liable and agree to pay any charges/fees as recorded on any meters available. If no meter is available or apparent a reasonable fee set by the Committee shall be levied.

“Living Aboard” Members must pay a bond of 1 month’s “Live Aboard” fees in advance and in addition to their monthly “Live Aboard” fee.

“Live-Aboard” members may use the ablution block for their shower and toiletry needs.

The same Rules & By-Laws apply to any guests/visitors hosted by the “Live-Aboard” member, who is responsible for their behaviour at all times.

This includes, but is not limited to, all personnel of any Commercial Property (See ) and any Yacht owners’ personnel and/or crew who are employed to work on their Yacht for any reason and at any place on the Club property.

Written application for a Crew Pass shall be made to the office for approval by the Committee providing the following details:

Yacht name/Commercial property business name.

Owner’s/Proprietor’s name.

Owner’s/Proprietor’s address.

Owner’s/Proprietor’s phone number.

Employee’s name.

Employee’s address.

Employee’s phone number.

Passport sized photo of the employee.

Nature of the intended work.

Upon approval by the Committee the person employed will be provided with a Crew Pass that shows the employee’s name, photo, commercial property/yacht and other relevant details.

A Crew Pass is valid for the period of one month.

A nominal fee, decided upon by the Committee, will be charged for issuance of each Crew Pass.

Irrespective of when the employee began it is the responsibility of the Owner/Proprietor to renew their Crews’ Pass by the 1 January of each year.

Should any employee of any Owner/Proprietor cease employment it is the responsibility of that Owner/Proprietor to notify the Club in writing as soon as possible. Failure to do so will mean that the employee remains the responsibility and liability of that Owner/Proprietor ( ).

Owners/Proprietors are reminded that they are responsible for their employees’ conduct while the employee is on the Club premises ( ).

By accepting a Crew Pass, the holder is bound by all Rules and By-Laws of the Club and must conduct themselves accordingly while on the Club premises.

The holder of a Crew Pass must present themselves, with their valid Crew Pass to the Club Security upon every entry and departure to or from the Club premises. No valid Crew Pass means NO ENTRY.

A Crew Pass must be carried by the holder at all times when on the Club premises and must be presented when requested by any Club Staff, Security Staff and/or any Club Committee Member.

Failure to provide a valid Crew Pass on demand will result in that person’s immediate eviction from the Club premises.

Upon any departure from the Club premises a Crew Pass holder may be required to submit to a security check of anything they may be carrying or transporting.

A Crew Pass DOES NOT entitle the holder to any of the Club facilities or any membership privileges ( ). A Crew Pass enables the holder to attend ONLY to his/her place of work/yacht. Those who are found at any other place other than specified on their Crew Pass Card will be subject to immediate eviction and refusal of any subsequent entry to the Club premises.

Any holders of a Crew Pass may apply for membership under the Rules and By-Laws herein.

Visiting Tradesmen/Casual Workers must be cleared by Club Security and signed in before entrance can be granted.

Visiting Tradesmen/Casual Workers must also sign out upon departure of the Club premises.

Given today’s internet and available hurricane forecasts the Club will endeavour to alert all yacht owners by email, Club Notice Board, RSYC Web Page &/or FaceBook on the strategies/actions to take to safeguard yachts, marina & Club assets.

Commodores/Committee will assess the situation and make decisions on preparations required. In extreme cases, all yachts will be required to vacate the Central Pontoon.

An owners meeting may be held at the club so that owners can be informed of the Club’s Hurricane Plan and the Owners’ obligations.

The RSYC stresses all care shall be taken but accepts but no liability for storm damage. It is the yacht owner’s responsibility to secure his/her vessel.

Insurance is suggested if the owner feels his/her vessel is not adequately protected. Insurance is the responsibility of the yacht owner.

Yachts wishing to moor alongside the fuel dock must seek permission from the Committee beforehand.

The RSYC Duty boats should be readied (fuel, ropes) to provide assistance during the hurricane.

All vessels/moorings will be inspected by Flag Officers/Committee/Club General Manager. If vessels are found to be poorly secured, RSYC personnel will secure them at a rate of $50/hr* plus cost of materials before the storm and $200/hr* during the hurricane.

All members are bound to follow the instructions of the Flag Officers/Committee/Club General Manager. Any decisions of the Flag Officers/Committee/Club General Manager are final and must be adhered to.

Yacht owners will be held responsible for any damages to moorings and to other boats and RSYC facilities, if their boats break loose during the hurricane. Yachts moored at the fuel dock/main wharf will be held responsible for any damages caused to these facilities.

RSYC personnel shall be on standby at the Yacht Club throughout the hurricane. If yachts need attention a rate of $200/hr* shall be applied. The discretion of such employment lies with the Club General Manager/Flag Officer/Committee.

Yacht owners shall be contacted if their boats are sinking or otherwise in trouble for advice and assistance. It is the responsibility of each boat owner to ensure the Club has up-to-date contact information.

·       * Costings subject to change without notice.

Mooring/Anchoring space is available within the Bay of Islands (adjacent to Novotel). Moorings are owned by individuals and permission must be sought to use them. Anchoring space is available but keep in mind sufficient swing space must be allowed for.

Access via the mouth of the Veisari River is limited to high tide and yachts with a draft of <1.5 – 1.6 m. The entrance should be reconnoitred by RSYC members to ensure clear access. Average depth at Veisari River entrance is 1.5m @ high tide. Bottom is generally soft silt.

All yachts to form in a line (one behind the other) in such a way their bows are facing out towards the entrance in case a quick escape is needed. The first boat there must go up as far as possible. There have been instances in the past where inconsiderate yacht owners have moored right at the entrance and blocked access to anyone else who

arrives later.

All yachts must have sufficient mooring lines (at least 4) long enough to double back from attaching to mangrove trees. It is pointless to have ropes knotted to the trees – if a quick exit is needed then these lines will have to be cut with the potential to foul rudders/props of any other following boats.

All yachts should remove or lay down any aerials/outriggers as they can be fouled in the overhanging vegetation.

All yachts are to be manned at all times while in the Creek. This is necessary in case of real trouble and (for example) the yacht at the front of the line is unmanned it will effectively block and endanger boats further up. If this does actually happen then the unmanned boat can be cut away and left to drift with no recourse available to the owner

of said boat. If yacht owners are unwilling to look after their own property, they have no right to endanger others. The expectation/or relying on another boat owner who is on his/her own vessel in Bilo Creek to look after another yachts is not practical – if an emergency happens one cannot expect someone who is in difficulty with his/her own boat to look after someone else’s at the same time.

Quick access to land is possible by dinghy (about 300m) from Bilo Creek to the bridge crossing the Veisari River.

Mud map of Veisari River & Bilo Creek

18° 09.737’ S  : 178° 23.492’E

See the map below. It is about 3.5 nautical miles from the Club House.

Permission for a Sea Burial must be sought from the Fiji Navy or M.S.A.F.

Please provide a copy of the Death Certificate & Police Report.

Should it be necessary to change these Instructions, International Code (I.C.) flag “L” will be hoisted on the main yard of the Club Flagstaff at least two (2) hours prior to the scheduled start time. This signal will denote that a change to the Instructions has been posted on the Club House “Yachting Notice Board”. Such posting shall constitute official notice to each Yacht in accordance with IYRU Rule 3.4.. It shall then be the responsibility of each yachtsman to consult the Notice Board.

The 720 degrees turn penalty, as provided for in Appendix B1 of the IYRU Rules shall apply, instead of disqualification, for infringement of a Rule of Part IV of the Rules.

All Yachts must have been issued with a current Safety Certificate, issued by the RSYC Safety Inspectors, or by a National, or recognised Authority.

Owners should bear in mind that it is contrary to the spirit of racing to save weight or windage by sailing without equipment which would normally be carried by a well found Yacht.

Whilst all reasonable precautions can be taken, the Club accepts no responsibility for injury or damage resulting from participating in races.

Attention is drawn to IYRU FUNDAMENTAL RULES of “FAIR SAILING” and “COMPETITORS’ RESPONSIBILITIES”.

If, in the opinion of the Started, weather or sea conditions warrant the wearing of personal buoyancy by all skippers and crew of Hobie 16, and C Class Yachts I.C. flag “Y” will be flown at the starting line. Failure to comply with this signal will result in disqualification of the Yacht concerned.

Sail numbers are not required on overlapping headsails or spinnakers.

Owners and helmsmen must be paid up Members or Honorary Members of the RCYC.

Handicaps shall be calculated for all Yachts enrolled on the RSYC Register.

Visiting Yachts should notify either the Club General Manager, a Flag Officer, or the Fleet Captain Sail, of their intention to race at least 48 hours prior to the scheduled start time.

Handicaps will be posted on the Yachting Notice Board two hours prior to each start. A Yacht which intends to start but is omitted from the list should inform a Yachting Committee Member immediately.

Mark Foy start times for each Yacht will be posted on the Yachting Notice Board two (2) hours prior to the start of a Mark Foy race.

At the Starter’s discretion, the start line for B Class Yachts may be extended by displaying the letter “B” adjacent to the course number. When the letter “B” is displayed, the “FUMIGATION” buoy replaces the Yellow Buoy as the O.D.M and all B Class Yachts shall pass eastward of the O.D.M. (Fumigation) and westward of the Yellow Buoy crossing the start line (the transit line, westward from two Orange Discs located over the Starter’s Hut) from north to south.

All navigation marks and all beacons shall be passed in accordance with instructions contained in the current Fiji Marine Department Almanac.

B Class – One (1) “horizontal” light displayed;

C Class – Two (2) “horizontal” lights displayed;

Dinghy Class – Three (3) “horizontal” lights displayed;

Hobie 16 – Four (4) “horizontal” lights displayed;

Combined Fleet – One (1) “horizontal” light displayed together with the making of one (1) sound signal except that:-

Where two (2) or more Classes start in sequence of five minutes intervals, a Class warning signal shall only be given for the first Class scheduled to start. In this event, the Class Warning Signal for each successive Class shall be the preparatory signal for the preceding Class.

At the expiration of each following minute, One (1) “vertical” light shall be extinguished.

For Yachts starting after the limit Yacht(s), one (1) “vertical” light shall be displayed one minute prior to that Yacht’s starting time. The start signal shall be the extinguishing of that light. The onus for starting on the correct signal shall rest with each Yacht.

Whilst attempts will be made to hail the Yacht(s) by sail number, the onus shall be on the offending Yacht(s) to return.

When there are a number of unidentified premature starters, or an error in the starting procedure, the Starter shall signal a General Recall by displaying I.C. flag “First Substitute” and make two (2) sound signals after the starting sound signal. In this event:-

A new Warning Signal shall be made for that Class, denoting a new starting sequence for that and subsequent Classes.

Within 30 minutes of a scheduled start time, a postponement of all starts shall be signalled by displaying all “horizontal” lights and the making of two sound signals.

A postponement shall be terminated by the extinguishing of the “horizontal” lights and making one (1) sound signal.

A new Warning Signal shall be made one (1) minute after the termination of the postponement.

Where two or more Classes are starting at five (5) minute intervals, the signals shall apply to the Class which has started immediately prior to the Abandonment Signal, and all Classes which have not started.

When the Starter is satisfied that all Yachts have responded to the signal, the Abandonment Signal shall be extinguished and one (1) sound signal made.

A new Warning Signal shall be made one (1) minute after termination of the Abandonment Signal.

Where a race is abandoned, and NOT intended to resail that race, the signal shall be the displaying of all lights together with I.C. flag “N” at the Starter’s Hut, accompanied by the making of three (3) sound signals.

The time limit for afternoon races shall be 1730 hours.

The first Yacht must cross the Finish Line within the time limit to prevent the race from being abandoned. Yachts finishing after the time limit may have to record their own finishing times and advise the Starter the next day.

Finishing times shall be corrected for each Yacht’s Handicap to decide the “Placings On Handicap”.

Only the points regattas as shown in the Schedule of Races and Events in the Year Book shall count for points. Yachts shall score overall regatta placings and their best six (6) regatta placings shall determine the season’s aggregate.

Visiting Yachts and those not on the Club Register shall not score points, nor shall they be eligible for points trophies.

Points scored shall be calculated by excluding visiting Yachts’ placings and non-registered Yachts’ placings from the calculation.

B Class – 250 mm

Other Classes – 150 mm

Protests shall be lodged, in accordance with IYRU Rule 68, with the Club General Manager, or Member of the Yachting Committee, no later than 1930 hours on the day of the race, and shall be accompanied by a deposit of FJ$5 (Dinghy Class 50¢ ) which shall be returned unless the protest is deemed frivolous.

Protests shall be heard at such times as may be laid down by the Protest Committee Chairperson.

Start

(as identified in Part A – – of these Instructions).

Patch (starboard), thence to Nukulau Island via the outside channel, Sandbank (starboard) observing all navigational marks and all beacons, to Finish.

Is the line between the outer end of Nukulau Wharf, and a black beacon on the western side of the channel bearing approximately 210° (magnetic) from the wharf, crossed from north to south.

For this race shall be 1800 hours.

Shall be the line between the outer end of Nukulau Wharf, and a black beacon on the western side of the channel bearing approximately 210° (magnetic) from the wharf, crossing south to north.

Start, Sandbank (port) to Suva Harbour via outside channel observing all navigational marks and beacons, Patch (port) to Finish.

Finish Line (as defined in Part A – – of these Instructions).

For this race shall be 1800 hours.

Start

(as defined in Part A – – of these Instructions), Patch (starboard), thence out the main Suva Harbour Entrance, outside the Main Reef, Sandbank Passage, Sandbank (starboard), observing all navigational marks and beacons, to Finish.

FINISH LINE and TIME LIMIT

As per Part B – – of these Instructions.

As per Part – – of these Instructions.

Start, Sandbank (port), out Sandbank Passage, outside Main Reef, in the Main Suva Harbour Entrance, observing all navigational marks and beacons, Patch (port) to Finish.

As per Parts & – – of these Instructions.

As per Part A – – of these Instructions.

Start, Patch (starboard). Thence out the main Suva Harbour Entrance, outside the Main Reef, in Sandbank Passage, Sandbank (starboard), around a mark to be advised in the Race Day Instructions, return to Suva Harbour via Sandbank (port), outside channel, observing all navigational marks and beacons, Patch (port) to Finish.

As per Parts & – – of these Instructions.

As defined in Part A – –  of these Instructions.

Start, Patch (starboard), thence via outside channel, Sandbank (starboard), Pat’s Beacon (starboard), Sandbank (port) via outside channel observing all navigational marks and beacons, Patch (port), to Finish.

As defined in Part A – – of these Instructions.

For this race shall be 1800 hours.

As defined in Part A – – of these Instructions.

Start, Patch (starboard), thence out the Main Suva Harbour Entrance, outside the Main Reef, in Sandbank Passage, Sandbank (starboard), Pat’s Beacon (starboard), Sandbank (port) via outside channel observing all navigational marks and beacons, Patch (port), to Finish.

As defined in Part A – – of these Instructions.

Shall be for this Race 1800 hours.

– The imaginary straight line between the beacon on the western side of Sulphur Passage, and the beacon on the coral patch inside the eastern side of the passage.

– As defined in Part A – – of these Instructions.

The Yacht with the lowest aggregate score will win the Hayman Cruising Cup.

Should it be necessary to change these Instructions International Code (I.C.) flag “L” will be displayed on the venue flagstaff by 0930 hours on the morning of the first race of any series of races or at 0930 hours on the day of any scheduled race in the series. This signal will denote that a change to the instructions has been posted on the venue “Yachting Notice Board”. Such posting shall constitute official notice to each Yacht in accordance with IYRU Rule 3.4.. It shall then be the responsibility of each yachtsman to consult the Notice Board.

The 720° in turn penalty, as provided for in Appendix B1 of the IYRU Rules shall apply, instead of disqualification, for an infringement of a Rule of Part IV of the Rules.

All Yachts must have been issued with a current Safety Certificate, issued by the RSYC Safety Inspectors, or by a National, or recognised Authority.

Owners should bear in mind that it is contrary to the spirit of racing to save weight or windage by sailing without equipment which would normally be carried by a well found Yacht.

Whilst all reasonable precautions can be taken, the Club accepts no responsibility for injury or damage resulting from participating in races.

Attention is drawn to IYRU FUNDAMENTAL RULES of “FAIR SAILING” and “COMPETITORS’ RESPONSIBILITIES”.

Owners and helmsmen must be paid up Members or Honorary Members of the RCYC. ( ) of these Instructions concerning eligibility for series points).

Handicaps shall be calculated for all Yachts enrolled on the RSYC Register where appropriate.

Visiting Yachts/Cruising Members should notify either the Club General Manager, a Flag Officer, or the Fleet Captain Sail, of their intention to race at least 48 hours prior to the scheduled start time.

Handicaps will be posted on the Yachting Notice Board two (2) hours prior to each start. A Yacht which intends to start but is omitted from the list should inform a Yachting Committee Member immediately.

In certain special events where start times have not been given in the Schedule or Races and Events in the Year Book start times will be posted on the Yachting Notice Board by 0930 hours on the scheduled day of racing.

The starting line is defined as the imaginary straight line between the signal masy on the Committee Yacht and an outer distance mark (ODM).

The Committee Yacht shall be stationed at the starboard end of the starting line and shall display I.C. flag “D” when on station.

“1” laid as a windward mark

“2” laid as a gybing mark

“3” laid as a leeward mark

“ODM” Outer Distance Mark

The course shall be sailed as follows:-

1 Round – Start – 1 – 2 – 3

2 Round – 1 – 3

3 Round 1 – 2 – 3 – Finish

The course may be laid to Port or Starboard (Port Course is illustrated).

Mark “3” is not a mark of the course for the first leg of the 1 Round.

In the event of a major windshift Marks “1” and “2” may be moved for the 2 and 3 Rounds. The Committee Yacht shall display I.C. flag “F”, and display a blackboard showing the approximate bearing to Mark “1” and make a sound signal.

The Committee Yacht shall remain on station at or near Mark “3” until the leading Yacht has completed Round “1”.

Course Illustration

The Committee Yacht will also display a blackboard showing the approximate bearing to Mark “1”.

B Class

C Class

Hobie 16

Dinghy Class

Sailboards

(b)   Class flags will not be displayed.

6 minutes before the Start the white flag shall be lowered;

5 minutes before the Start a PREPARATORY SIGNAL, which shall be a blue flag, will be displayed and one sound signal made.

1 minute before the Start the blue flag shall be lowered.

The STARTING SIGNAL shall be the displaying of a red flag and one other sound signal.

Except that:-

If more than one class is starting in sequence, only the first class to start will receive a WARNING SIGNAL and the PREPARATORY SIGNAL for each Class shall be the WARNING SIGNAL for the next class.

Competitors are reminded that, in accordance with IYRU Rule 4.4, times shall be taken from the visual starting signal and a failure or mistiming of a sound signal calling attention to the STARTING SIGNAL shall be disregarded.

Whilst attempts may be made to hail the Yacht(s) by sail number, the onus shall be on the offending Yacht(s) to return.

When there are a number of unidentified premature starters, or an error in the starting procedure, the Starter shall signal a General Recall by displaying I.C. flag “First Substitute”, and make two (2) sound signals after the starting sound signal. In this event:-

A New WARNING SIGNAL shall be made for that Class, denoting a new starting sequence for that and subsequent Classes.

A race which has been postponed may be started no later than 1600 hours on the scheduled day of that race, otherwise it shall be deemed to have been cancelled.

The signal I.C. flag “N” over “X” shall, where Classes are starting in sequence, apply only to the Class which has started immediately prior to the signal being made, and to subsequent Class starts. In the event of this signal being made :-

A new Warning Signal shall be given for the Class which started prior to the abandonment signal one (1) minute after the signal is lowered (One (1) sound signal shall be made with the lowering of “N” over “X”).

The first Yacht must cross the Finish Line within the time limit to prevent the race from being abandoned. Yachts finishing after the Time Limit may have to record their own finishing times and advise the Starter the next day.

(i)     (if the full course is sailed) Mark “1”;

(ii)   (if the course is shortened) the adjacent mark of the course.

(b)   The Committee Yacht shall take up station so that the adjacent mark is left by Yachts on the same side as throughout the race. The Committee Yacht shall display a blue flag to indicate that it is on station on the Finish Line.

In the Club Championship series her finishing place in each race of the series and her handicap place in each race.

In all other Olympic series races her finishing place in each race of the series. Visiting Yachts shall not score points, nor shall they be eligible for points trophies. Point scores shall be calculated by excluding visiting Yachts and Non-Registered Yachts placings from the calculation.

B Class – 250 mm

Other Classes – 150 mm

Protests shall be lodged, in accordance with IYRU Rule 68, with the Club General Manager, or Officer of the Day, or Member of the Yachting Committee, no later than 1930 hours on the day of the race, and shall be accompanied by a deposit of FJ$5 (Dinghy Class 50¢) which shall be returned unless the protest is deemed frivolous. Protests will be heard at such times as may be laid down by the Protest Committee Chairperson.

NW or NNW

Patch

Fumigation

Suvavou

T/Lodge

Suvavou

Patch

Finish

S

P

P

P

S

P

Patch

N.Thurston

Suvavou

Patch

Suvavou

Patch

Finish

S

S

S

S

S

P

Patch

Suvavou

Patch

N.Thurston

Patch

Finish

S

S

S

S

P

Patch

Suvavou

N.Thurston

Fumigation

Suvavou

N.Thurston

Finish

S

P

P

P

P

P

Patch

Suvavou

Fumigation

Patch

Suvavou

Patch

Finish

S

S

S

S

P

P

Patch

Suvavou

T/Lodge

Namuka

T/Lodge

Suvavou

Patch

Finish

S

P

S

S

P

S

P

Patch

Namuka

S.Thurston

Tradewind

N.Thurston

Suvavou

Patch

Finish

S

P

P

S

P

S

P

Patch

S.Thurston

Namuka

N.Thurston

Suvavou

Patch

Finish

S

S

S

P

S

P

Patch

Suvavou

Patch

Namuka

S.Thurston

Tradewind

Patch

Finish

S

S

S

P

P

S

P

Patch

T/Lodge

Suvavou

Fumigation

S.Thurston

Fumigation

Patch

Finish

S

S

S

S

S

S

P

Light or Squally

Patch

Suvavou

S.Thurston

Fumigation

Suvavou

N.Thurston

Patch

Finish

S

P

P

P

P

P

P

Patch

S.Thurston

Fumigation

Suvavou

Namuka

S.Thurston

T/Lodge

Patch

Finish

S

S

P

S

P

S

P

P

Each Yacht finishing a race and not thereafter retiring or being disqualified shall score points as follows:-

FINISHING PLACE   POINTS

First                     ¾

Second     2

Third                    3

Fourth     4

Fifth                     5

Sixth                    6

Seventh   7

Eight                    8

Ninth       9

Tenth       10 … and so on

The lowest total score wins.

A Yacht which does not rank as a competing Yacht under IYRU Rule 74.5, shall score points equal to the maximum number of possible starters possible in her Class. The Yachting Committee shall assess each Class from time to time and publish a maximum number of possible starters.

All other Yachts, including a Yacht which finishes but thereafter retires or is disqualified, shall score points for the finishing place one more than the number of Yachts that started or ranked as starters in the race.

In applying IYRU Rule 70.3 (Yacht materially prejudiced) or IYRU Rule 68.5 (Protests), which is deemed equitable to adjust the score to the prejudiced Yacht by awarding points different from those she received for the race in questio0n, the following possibilities may be considered:-

Points equal to the average, to the nearest tenth of a point, of the points she had received before the race in question.

An arbitrary number of points based on the position of the Yacht in the race in question at the time she was prejudiced.

When there is a tie on total points between two or more Yachts, the tie shall be broken in favour of the Yacht with the most first places, and when the tie remains, the most second places and so on.

In a series of five, six or seven races the best four, five or six races respectively shall count for points. In a series of four races or less all races shall count for points.

The owner must be satisfied as to the soundness of hull, spars, rigging, sails, engines and all gear.

The owner must ensure that all safety equipment is properly maintained and stowed and that the crew know where it is kept and how it is to be used.

Neither the establishing of these minimum requirements not the inspection of a Yacht under these requirements in any way limits or reduces the complete and unlimited responsibility of the owner.

Inspection of all Yachts under this scheme is a prerequisite of registration.

Inside the Reef

Outside the Reef

Further endorsement may be necessary if, in the Inspector’s opinion, limitations of use are indicated.

(b)   Cockpits of Sailing Yachts in the “outside the reef” category shall be self bailing and essentially watertight.

Cockpits shall be fitted with adequate drains that function at all angles of heel. All openings to the hull below main deck level must be capable of being closed off by strong washboards or the like.

(c)    All underwater through hull fittings shall be fitted with sea cocks and/or softwood or rubber plugs, tapered and of the correct size attached to or adjacent to the appropriate skin fittings.

(d)   An auxiliary engine is strongly recommended for the “outside the reef” category.

(e)   For the “outside the reef” category all hatch covers shall be attached to the hull and be capable of being properly secured.

(a)   Crew in Yacht:-

Both hands raised above the head and lowered to sides cyclically at five (5) second intervals.

(b)   Crew in Water:-

One hand raised above head for three (3) seconds at five (5) second intervals.