One hundred sailors and friends heralded the new season with the annual cocktail party in the Harbour Room of Hillarys Yacht Club on Friday September 15th. With last season’s presentation dinner and winter racing quickly fading from memory all talk was on who was lifting their boats for a pressure-clean and antifoul for the hull and the possibility of an early Christmas present of new sails. Or not.

The only reference to the past were the delicious cocktails named after last season’s Overall Consistency winners Perle, Covert Operation and Resolute (also Club Champion). Complementing the cocktails was a spread of more than ample gastronomic delights prepared by the staff led by the ever-smiling Bianca Reuben. A big thank you to Bianca and the team in the kitchen and behind the bar.

Rear Commodore Sailing, Jos Colvin welcomed those present and outlined key dates and events leading to Opening Day on Saturday October 7th. Jos thanked Sue Osborne and those who contributed to organising the evening.

For those who wished they were there, or those who just want to re-live the cocktail experience, here are the details:

The Perler: Gin and tonic, cranberry juice (to make it pink of course), frosted top and a mint leaf.

The Covert Operation: Bombay Sapphire gin, watermelon juice, strawberry, lime, vanilla and lemon.

The Resolute was Absolut vodka, espresso, chocolate bitters and sugar.

John Bird