November 10 - 16, 2013: Issue 136
Pittwater Regattas –1921 the Only Year that Saw Two!
In 1921, as though to make up for seven lost years, and the first since 1913 and when World War One broke out, the year began with a Pittwater Regatta and ended with a Pittwater Regatta. The first was held on Saturday 1st of January, the second on Saturday 31st of December. Although some reports get ‘last year’ and ‘this year’ muddled, as it is easy to do with these years of the Pittwater Regatta being held at the end of each year, reported soon after the New Year and the next being announced mid way through, the year that saw two Pittwater Regattas open and close the year 1921 bears a testament to the ‘let’s pick ourselves up and get on with it’ spirit diggers are renowned for.
Australia and Pittwater had suffered devastating losses during this conflict, losing more young men and women, per capita, than any other nation in the Commonwealth in many of the fields where battles were fought from Turkey to France. By the end of 1919 those who were coming home had been shipped home, disembarked and demobbed. With so many coming home with permanent injuries, both physical and those that cannot be seen, a focus on health and sport threaded through the community.
PITTWATER REGATTA. Mr. J. Roche, hon. secretary of the Pittwater Regatta committee, states that this fixture will not be held on January 3 next as anticipated. PITTWATER REGATTA. (1914, November 19). The Sydney Morning Herald (NSW : 1842 - 1954), p. 10. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article15555330
1st of January, 1921:
The Pittwater Regatta - Revival Creates Enthusiasm BY BOB BACKSTAY
Pittwater Regatta is to be held on Saturday (1.1.1921). What memories come crowding upon many a sailing and rowing man at the revival of this wonderful picnic regatta. When war broke out in 1914 the regatta was held over, for the reason that so many of our good men went away at the call of Empire. But the war is over, and the light-hearted aquatic enthusiasts will have their regatta again. To John Roche, hon. Secretary, organiser and founder, is due most of the credit, for he has made this Pittwater regatta his hobby, and this year his efforts amount to a record entry for all events. It is particularly gratifying to note that in the sailing and motor boat sections the entries far exceeded all expectations; in fact, so far as the Sydney amateurs are concerned, there will be more starters than for any of the club’s Sydney Harbor races. The attendance is bound to be large. The beautiful stretch of water upon which the events will be contested is one of the most picturesque portions of the Hawkesbury.
From the Bay View vantage point there will be a complete and uninterrupted view of the flagship and all proceedings. This year the committee has secured the steamer Gosford as flagship, and a fleet of launches will ply from early morning on Saturday between all wharves and the flagship. Summed up in a few words Newport and all the surrounding districts will be en fete on Saturday next, as it is a foregone conclusion that the Pittwater regatta of 1921 will eclipse the successes of past years. The Pittwater Regatta. (1920, December 29 - Wednesday). Evening News (Sydney, NSW : 1869 - 1931), p. 2. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article117304695
YACHTING - PITTWATER REGATTA ON NEW YEAR'S DAY Big Events Won by Magic and Wanderer: Great Sport
(By PELORUS)
The first regatta at Pittwater since 1914 was held on New Year's Day with signal success and every indication that before long the fixture will become one of the most important and popular aquatic events in the State. The magnificent stretch of water, which bears the name, forms the southern arm of Broken Bay, and extends from Lion Island to Newport, furnishing, in its picturesque setting, of sheltering hills, an ideal situation for sailing and rowing races.
Gosford II
Last Saturday Pittwater was in gala costume. The steamer Gosford was flagship, and was crowded with spectators, and there was a large attendance of sailing craft and launches, mostly gaily decked with bunting, the whole making a brilliant combination of animation and color. There were two yacht races — an all yachts' handicap, for a trophy presented by Sir Rupert Clarke, and other prizes, which was won convincingly by Magic; and a general handicap for cruisers for a cup presented by Mr. James J. Smith, president of the regatta, and prizes, which was secured by Wanderer, a handsome covered cruising boat, which was recently built by Mr. C. M. Gale at his yards, Lane Cove. In the evening an official dinner was held at the Newport Hotel, Mr. James J. Smith presiding.
Among the many present were General Sir G. Ryrie, M.P.,(Assistant-Minister), Mr. Walter Marks M.P. (commodore of the Royal Prince Alfred Yacht Club), Mr. Weaver. Mr. A., Mr. J. Williams, Mr. F. J. S. Young, Mr. Milne (commodore of the Motor Yacht Club of N.S. Wales), Mr. Frank Albert, and Mr. Fred Adams (the doyen of yachting in Port Jackson). There were many toasts, and much was said in praise of the regatta.
THE RACING.
For the racing the weather conditions were perfect. The breeze in the bay was light from north-east. In the all yachts handicap there were six starters : Bradley and Towse's Bona (R. L. Patrick),scr; J. C. Palmer's Aoma (J. B. Palmer),llmin; C. T. Brockhoff's Scotia (owner), 15min; H. B. Langley's Magic (A. Stevens), 16min; S. H. Fairland's Manoya (owner), 24min; and A. Boesen's Ithra (S. M. Dempster),34min.The conditions were favorable to Magic, which early forged her way to the front, and she led the first time round the flagship, followed in order by Scotia, Ithra, Aoma, Manoya and Bona. Aoma sailed under disadvantage, carrying small sail owing to an accident that had occurred the previous day. Rounding the flagship the second time, Bona was in third position. Scotia, which at first kept close on the heels of Magic, broke her spinnaker boom and suffered as a consequence. Eventually Magic won from Scotia by 4min 21sec, the latter crossing the line l min 42scc ahead of Bona. Aoma finished fourth. The course was 16 miles.
The cruisers' handicap attracted 10 starters: Triton (W. D. M. Taylor) and Seabird (F. Lomer), scr; Seabelle (R.A. McDonald), 4min; Mischief. (S. Spain), 10min; Athene (D. Carment, jun.) and Wanderer (E. C. Gale), 12min; Olive (S. H. Stevens) and Winifred (T. Ferry), 18min; Albacore (J. B. Wood),23rriin, and Frolic (W. Rayment), 25min. Most of the boats were slow in crossing the starting line. At the first distance mark Olive was in the lead, and was immediately followed by Wanderer, and Mischief. On the run to the flagship something went wrong with Olive's spinnaker, and the lead was taken by Wanderer. In the breeze the scratch boats, Triton and Seabird, had no hope, but sailed an interesting match, which resulted in favor of the former. The race was won by Wanderer by 3min22sec from Mischief, which took second place from Olive by 2min lO sec. The course was 11.2 miles. YACHTING. (1921, January 5 - Wednesday). Referee (Sydney, NSW : 1886 - 1939), p. 14. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article121155743
31st of December , 1921
PITTWATER REGATTA. Enthusiasts from Sydney, in addition to those representative of all parts of the Pittwater district — Newport, Church Point, Palm Beach and Mona Vale — attended the public meeting at Pittwater Hall, when it was unanimously decided that the next regatta should be held on Saturday, December 31. Feeling references were made to the deaths of Messrs. J. J. Smith (last year's president) and E. Miles (for many years a member of the committee).Officers are: President, Mr. F. J. S. Young ; hon. treasurer, Mr. W. G. Buckle ; committee, Messrs. J. Williams, W. D. M. Taylor, G. P. Taylor, A. Burton, jun., J. Miles, A. B. Southward, E. L. Quirk, W. Austin, and S. J. Keegan. Mr. J. Roche and Mrs. E. G. Grieg, who have acted as hon. secretaries of the regatta since its inception in 1907, were unanimously appointed to those positions. THE SUNDAY TIMES. (1921, August 19). Arrow (Sydney, NSW : 1916 - 1933), p. 6. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article103430604
Crew and officials of the Pittwater Regatta on NAMOI - 31st of December - second 1921 Pittwater Regatta, image 12165
LORD FORSTER'S CORELLA, LEADING FROM BOOMERANG AND GUMLEAF IN THE 21FT RESTRICTED YACHTS' SCRATCH RACE AT THE PITTWATER REGATTA YESTERDAY. No title. (1922, January 1). Sunday Times (Sydney, NSW : 1895 - 1930), p. 8. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article128213443
AT THE PITTWATER REGATTA Oenone (in the foreground) winning the All-yachts Handicap on Saturday. Bona (19)was second. On page 2 is printed the start of the restricted yachts. AT THE PITTWATER REGATTA. (1922, January 2). Evening News (Sydney, NSW : 1869 - 1931), p. 6. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article118877280
No title. (1922, January 2). Evening News (Sydney, NSW : 1869 - 1931), p. 2. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article118877294
Yacht Racing at Pittwater. (1922, January 5). Evening News(Sydney, NSW : 1869 - 1931), p. 5. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article118871822
ROUGH, BUT EXCELLENT SPORT. Pittwater regatta arrangements were splendid. Although the day was boisterous, following a night of heavy rain, which brought about many difficulties to be overcome, there was no hitch. All contingencies had been taken into consideration by the committee, and consequently the rough weather did not interfere with the proceedings. The success was principally due to the untiring energy of Mr. John Roche, the genial hon. secretary; but he received able assistance from the committee. AnaMr. F. J. S. Young, the president, is 'decidedly entitled to encomium for his services. ''
Crew and yachts at Newport waiting for the weather to clear during the Pittwater Regatta. This image appears in The Sydney Mail, 4 January 1922, page 18. Image courtesy Australian National Maritime Museum, image no: 12163.
The steamer Namoi made a comfortable flagship with her commodious maindeck. She looked quite a large vesselmoored in Newport Bay. Taking the inclement weather into account, the attendance was large. With its broad sheet of hill-protected waters reaching from Newport to Lion Island, over five miles, Pittwater makes an ideal situation for a regatta. It was Anthony Trollope who compared |the Hawkesbury and Broken Bay with Ithe finest scenery in the world. He wasa traveller, and knew what he was talking about. WITH THE YACHTS - TO-MORROW'S OCEAN RACE :PITTWATER ECHOES (By PELORUS) WITH THE YACHTS. (1922, January 6). Arrow(Sydney, NSW : 1916 - 1933), p. 16. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article103441462
31st of December, 1921 results:
YACHTING- PITTWATER REGATTA. ROUGH WEATHER:Lord Forster's Corella Victorious : Oenone and Sea Belle Winners
(By PELORUS.)
Pittwater Regatta on Saturday was a success, in spite of the stormy weather conditions. The attendance was good and the yacht racing thrilling. The boisterous weather conditions which formed part of the obsequies of the old year took up a bit on Saturday, and although the wind was hard, and gusty from the south, the sun smiled in between and through the speeding clouds, and the showers were light and few and far between. At Pittwater from the hour of dawn all was excitement. Newport Bay was filled with boats, and the peep of day found the crews busy making their preparations. The regatta officials were early at work, and Johnnie Roche, the secretary and executive officer, was ubiquitous. For the information of those who do not know, John Roche is the heart of Pittwater Regatta. The flagship, the fine steamer Namoi, was moored in an excellent position in the stream which commanded a full view of both the sailing and rowing courses.
ENCHANTING SIGHT.
When the sun broke through the clouds the scene was magnificent, and was thoroughly appreciated by the big attendance on the flagship, on which Mr. F. J. S. Young, president of the regatta, was Commodore of the Day and the genial host on behalf of the committee. Among the guests were representatives of the yacht clubs, Mr. R. W. D. Weaver, M.L.A., and Mr. W. P. McElhone, the new Lord Mayor of Sydney, who, in responding to a toast, said that he had no doubt but that in years to come Pittwater Regatta would hold high place among the recognised annual events of the Commonwealth.
The successful yachts of the day were Mr. J. Bruriton's Oenone in the All Yachts' Handicap, Lord Forster's Corella in the ,21ft. restricted class race, and Mr. R. A. McDonald's Sea Belle in the general handicap. - Mr. Don Taylor, who sailed Corella for Lord Forster, received an ovation after the race.
RAWHITI sailing at the 1921 Pittwater Regatta. The yacht in the background is most likely to be CORELLA. This image appears in The Sydney Mail, 4 January 1922, page 18. Image courtesy Australian National Maritime Museum, image no: 12168.
In the evening a very well attended dinner at which Mr. Young, the regatta president was chairman, was held at the Newport Hotel. It was a pleasant function, many ladies being present, but the speeches might, with advantage, have been briefer and fewer.
THE RACING— ALL YACHTS.
Out of the ten entrants for this event there were only six starters : Mr. F. Albert's Rawhiti (scratch), Messrs. Bradley and Towse's Bona (8min), Mr. C. T. Brockhoff's Scotia and Mr. H. B. Langley's. Magic (23min), Mr. J. M. Brunton's Oenone (33min), and Mr. R. G. Griffiths' Bui Bui (38min).
This race furnished much excitement. Both Rawhiti and Bona sailed unreefed in the stiff blow. The order rounding the flagship the first time was Oenone, Bui Bui, Scotia, Magic, Bona, Rawhiti. Rounding the second time Scotia was in second position, and Bona in third. The finishing times were Oenone (which had been splendidly handled throughout by young Mr. Bramton) 5h 3min 56sec, Bona 5.8.22, and Bui Bui (whose first race it was in twenty years) 5.22.31. Neither Rawhiti, Scotia nor Magic finished. Scotia met with the hardest of luck. She had overhauled Oenone on the thrash to the finishing line, when crack went the top of her mast. Rawhiti carried away her gaff after the first round, and Magic, sprung her mast early in the race. Eun-na-Mara split her mainsail just before the start.
21 –FOOTERS RESTRICTED.
On account of the rough seas on Friday, Cherrytwo, Inez, and L.O.J, were prevented from going to Broken Bay, so consequently were absentees. As a result the only starters were Lord Forster's Corella, Mr. Albert's Boomerang, and Mr. J. Alderton's Gumleaf. A good start was effected. On the run to Sandy Point Corella which was skippered by Mr. Don Taylor, gained half a minute on Gumleaf and drew well away from Boomerang. On the thrash to the flagship Gumleaf was badly beaten by the other two. Rounding the ship Corella led Boomerang by SJmin and Gumleaf by13min. Over the rest of the course Corella increased her lead, eventually winning by nearly 10min from Boomerang, which crossed the line more than 11min before Gumleaf.
GENERAL HANDICAP.
There had also been ten entrants for this race, but the starters were: Mr. P.A. McDonald's Sea Belle, 4min; Mr. Cliff Gale's Wanderer, 9min; Messrs. Coates and Best's Burraneer, 10min; Mr. T. Ferry's Winifred, 12min; and Mr. S. A. Steven's Olive, 18min. Burraneer led round the flagship by 30sec from Winifred, followed in order by Wanderer, Sea Belle, and Olive. On the second round Sea Belle took the lead and crossed the finishing line the winner by lmin 31sec from Burraneer, which gained second place from Winifred by lmin. Wanderer, the winner of the race at the previous regatta, was fourth.
A YACHTSMAN'S TRIP ABROAD. According to Mr. J. Buchanan, hon. treasurer of the Royal Prince Alfred Yacht Club, who recently returned to Sydney after a trip to England, a yachting clubman travelling these days carries the entree to kindred clubs about in his card case. Even the exclusive and high most Royal Yacht Squadron of England opens the doors of its headquarters at Cowes and extends its hospitality to the visiting yachtsman. YACHTING. (1922, January 4 - Wednesday). Referee (Sydney, NSW : 1886 - 1939), p. 15. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article127917751
Women sitting on beached skiffs at the Pittwater Regatta, 1921 - the same women are onboard NAMOI during the Pittwater Regatta. Image courtesy Australian National Maritime Museum, image no.: 12164
RACE FOR JENNY TROPHY. Scotia and Eun-na-Mare were absentees, the former being still without a mast to take the place of the stick she lost at Pittwater, and the latter not having returned from Broken Bay. The seven starters were F. Albert's Rawhiti, scr, sailed by Dr. Arthur Marks; Messrs. Bradley and Towse's Bona, 4min,sgjled by Mr. S. Patrick; Mr. J. S. Palmer's Aoma, 7min, sailed by Mr. S. Stevens; Mr. A. W. Crane's Sunbeam,19min; Mr. F. B. Langley's Magic, 21min; Mr. J. W. Brunton's Oenone,28min; Mr. L. E. Murnin's Apache,36min.When the yachts were picked up bythe club steamer they were between the heads, - on the reach to Shark Island, with Sunbeam in the lead, and followed in order by Magic, Apache, Aoma, Oenone, Bona and Rawhiti. But many changes took place before the island was reached, for the times recorded as the yachts rounded that mark were: Sunbeam. 3.54.4?; Aoma,, 3.55.18; Magic,3.57.40; Bona, 4.3.10; Rawhiti, 4.6.3;Oenone, 4.6.30; and Apache, 4.7.35.This order remained the same at the Fort. Sunbeam drew further ahead of Aoma on the way to Watson's Bay, but subsequently the latter crept very steadily on the leader, and there was a brief space, in which it looked as though the tables might be turned and Aoma catch the judge's eye the first at the finish. In the final stage of the race there was a great struggle between Rawhiti and Bona for third place. On the home journey from Watson's Bay, Bona was in third position rounding the mark, but the big green boat was not far behind, and there followed a splendid race between the pair, with all canvas set, from Shark Island, Rawhiti gaining third place right on the line from Bona by only8sec.
RESTRICTED CLASS RACE.
In this event there were Six starters :Lord Forster's Corella, Mr. Albert's Boomerang, Mr. F. Doran's Inez, Mr.J. Milson's E.O.J., Mr. J. Alderton's Gumleaf, and Mr. A. H. Davies' Cherrytoo, the latest addition to the fleet and which made her debut on the occasion. Inez got the best of what was a very good start. On the work to Bradley's Head. Gumleaf, by making a big cut on the port tack, got a slant which, when she swung round on the other foot, placed her to windward, and she was the first to ease sheets on the broad reach to the Manly buoy.
GUMLEAF'S DAY.
It was odds on Mr. Alderton's boat from the start. She led round the Manly buoy, and again round Shark Island, where the times taken were : Gumleaf 4.41.40, E.O.J. 4.42.35, Inez 4.42.55, Corella 4.40.10, Cherrytoo 4.44.20. Boomerang had done badly, and was not timed. On the run to the finish Inez was hard pressed by Corella, which was sailed by Mr. Don Taylor, but the line was crossed by Gumleaf lmin 20sec before E.O.J.,which was 2min 10sec ahead of Inez, which in turn beat Corella for third place by only 8sec. Cherrytoo was 42sec behind Corella. So far in the restricted class racing two races each have been won by Gumleaf and Inez, and one race (that at Pittwater) by Corella.
VISITORS ON CLUB STEAMER.
Among the guests who were on the club steamer, on which Mr. A. J. Langan was commodore of the day, were Mr. C. Campbell, a member of the Royal Yacht Club of Victoria, and Mr. F. G. Lundon, vice-commodore of the Singapore Yacht Club. YACHTSMEN. (1922, January 18). Referee (Sydney, NSW : 1886 - 1939), p. 11. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article127920475
Cup for a Yachting Victory .The Lord Mayer presenting Lord Forster with the Cup won by his yacht Corella at the Pittwater Regatta. Cup for a Yachting Victory. (1922, February 10). Evening News(Sydney, NSW : 1869 - 1931), p. 3. Retrieved October fromhttp://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article118881366
PITTWATER REGATTA CUP Presented to Governor-General by the Lord Mayor Today PITTWATER REGATTA CUP. (1922, February 10). Evening News (Sydney, NSW : 1869 - 1931), p. 7. Retrieved October 16, 2013, from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article118881359
Lover of Sport. LORD FORSTER'S PREFERENCE Pittwater Regatta Prizes. The Governor-General Lord Forster and other winners at the last Pittwater Regatta went to the Town Hall to-day to get their prizes. The trophies were presented by the Lord Mayor, Alderman W. P. Elhone. The Governor-General's prize was a silver cup, given to him as the winner of the lift restricted class race. The Lord Mayor, In making the presentation to Lord Forster described him as a sport and a good fellow. 'I've always taken a keen Interest In sport,' said his Excellenry, !n reply.'There is no better way for a man to use his leisure moments than in one healthy, clean sport or another. I an sorry that yachting is now the only sport in which I can take an active part. But I would prefer to take an active part, even when I come last, than to be a looker-on. Ever since I drew breath I have loved sport and I always will love It.'
His Excellency put his victory down to mere chance. He happened to have the good fortune, he explained, to be sailing the yacht Corella when it won under the highly skilled skippership of Mr. Don Taylor.The Lord Mayor assured the Governor General that he would always give his cooperation to promote clean sport. The guests included:— Dr. Arthur Marks, Col. Spain, and Messrs. D. Carment and Andrew Wilson (of the Royal Prince Alfred Yacht Club), Arthur Boscn, Leo. Patrick, Capt. Tufnell, M.C. (of the steamer Namoi, flagship at the regatta), Paul Boss (commodore R.P.A.Y.C), John Roche (secretary Pittwater regatta), L.Waterman, T. U Mulhall. S. J. Keegan. J. Spencer Nolan (Motor Yacht Club). O.Henty, A. Mitchell, Frank Albert. MDonald. O. Lind, S. D. M'Laren. Lover of Sport. (1922, February 10). Evening News(Sydney, NSW : 1869 - 1931), p. 7. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article118881358
The Governor-General was given an enthusiastic reception by the Lord Mayor and members of the Pittwater regatta committee. The function was attended by the members of the regatta committee, the prize winners, and leading yachtsmen. The Governor-General, remarked the Lord Mayor Is a good sport and a good fellow.
'We aro proud of him for the keen delight ho taken in all forms of sport, and more especially in yachting," he added. Lord Forster said ho regarded the sport as the most healthy, invigorating, and profitable form of pastime a man could indulge in. SUMMARY. (1922, February 11). The Sydney Morning Herald(NSW : 1842 - 1954), p. 1. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article15970685
Mrs J Wilson and Miss Hastie winning the Ladies Double Sculls at the Pittwater Regatta, This image appears in The Sydney Mail, 4 January 1922, page 18. The caption for the image includes the following details: 'The winners had a handicap of 15s, the distance being a mile. Mrs Hendrie and Miss Beaumont were second, and Mrs Allen and Miss K. Bolt (3s) third.' Image 12152 courtesy Australian National Maritime Museum.
Mr John Roche (left), Mr John Williams, Vice Commodore and Mr F. J. S. Young (right) onboard NAMOI, 31st oif December - second 1921 Pittwater Regatta. Image 12166, courtesy Australian National Maritime Museum.
Incidentals:
Death of Mr. Walter M. Marks .SYDNEY, Sunday. Mr. Walter M. Marks, Parliamentary Under Secretary for External Affairs from 1921 to 1923,died yesterday after a short illness. Mr. Marks, who was 76, and a solicitor, was Nationalist member for Wentworth from 1919 to 1923. He was a commander in the R.A.N. during the First World War, and played a prominent part in the recruiting campaign last war. He is survived by a son, Commander W. Marks, now in command of H.M.A.S. Bataan, and a daughter, Mrs. P. Sloane, of Woollahra. Mr. Marks will be accorded a State funeral which will leave All Saints' Church, Woollahra, at 2.30 p.m. tomorrow. Death of Mr. Walter M. Marks. (1951, April 2). The Canberra Times (ACT : 1926 - 1995), p. 1. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article2825808
RECENT ARRIVALS IN SYDNEY BY THE STEAMER AORANGI Left to Right.-Mr. "Walter M. Marks, M.H.R. (chairman of the Federal Royal Commission on Films), Sir Mark Sheldon, Mr. Charles tr. Greenwell (a Sydney solicitor), and Mr. Alan Bunce and Miss Ruth Nugent, who are under engagement to J. C- Williamson. RECENT ARRIVALS IN SYDNEY BY THE STEAMER AORANGI. (1929, January 8). News (Adelaide, SA : 1923 - 1954), p. 12 Edition: HOME EDITION. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article129191179
THE LATE MR. J. J SMITH.,
The death occurred at his residence, Cole-brook, Double Bay, yesterday afternoon, of Mr. James Joseph Smith, chairman and managing director of Mark Foy's, Ltd. Mr. Smith died on the anniversary of his birth, which occurred in Dublin 57 years ago. He arrived in Australia when In his twenties, and soon afterwards entered the business of the late Mr. Mark Foy. He rose in the service until, upon the retirement of the late Mr. Francis Foy, he became general manager, being associated with Mr. Victor Foy. Mr. Smith had been suffering from illness for the past two months, and had been confined to the house for several days. He was exceedingly popular with all classes, and was of a very charitable disposition. He married Sophie, youngest daughter of the late Mr. Mark Foy. She died some years since, leaving two daughters and one son. The former have just returned from a trip to England. He' married later, Miss Turner, of Hobart, who also survives him.
He was particularly fond of yachting and waterside recreation, being a member of the Royal Prince Alfred Yacht Club. He also spent a good deal of time at Pittwater. He was a member of the A.J.C.
Mr. Smith was the son of the late Mr. William Smith, a large army contractor In Dublin. THE LATE MR. J. J. SMITH. (1921, July 22). The Sydney Morning Herald (NSW : 1842 - 1954), p. 10. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article15929913
A NOTED SYDNEY, YACHTSMAN. Mr. Sydney M. Dempster, one time commodore of the Prince Alfred Yacht Club, served his apprenticeship on the sailing ship Duchess of Edinburgh, under Capt. James Peters, and, although a junior member, is proud of belonging to the Ancient Mariners of this State. As a lad, however, he gave up sea life and has achieved success in the commercial world as a member of the firm of Marshall and Dempster. After passing through his dinghy days, he was one- of the pioneers of the popular 18-footer class, and in the nineties owned and successfully raced the 18-footers Gymea, O.K., and Aztec. The yacht Petrel ,now in Port Phillip, was built for Mr. Dempster in 1900 by Logan Brothers, of New Zealand, and it was as skipper of this 30-rater than he established his reputation as a yachtsman. During a period of six years, out of 85 races in which she started, Petrel secured no fewer than 53 places. Twice she won the championship of the Prince Alfred Yacht Club, and in the hands of Mr. Dempster made good in ocean racing, her great rival being Mr. Walter Marks' Culwulla. After parting with Petrel in 1907 Mr Dempster retired from racing, but, as part-owner, with Mr. Arthur Boesen, of the 8-ton auxiliary cruiser Ithra, he is in the field again. In recent years Mr. Dempster purchased the 25-ton yacht Hurrica II., re-naming her Stormy Petrel. In five months he converted her into one of the most wholesome and seaworthy craft ever known in these waters. In 1919 he signed on a crew of yachtsmen and accomplished what he justly claims to be the record yachting cruise in this part of the, world, extending, as it did, as far as the islands of Torres Straits and the Gulf of Carpentaria, and covering 5100 sea miles. For 30 years Mr. Dempster has held official positions in yachting and sailing clubs, and at present is commodore of the Sydney Dinghy Club. Mr. Dempster skippered Bona against Sayonara when the latter held the cup which bears her name, and represented Victoria. Mr. Dempster, besides being a good yachtsman, is genial, charitable, and popular. The Royal Prince Alfred have made him several presentations, including a gold chronometer stopwatch and a gold key to the club rooms, and for special services he has been elected a life member of the club. A NOTED SYDNEY, YACHTSMAN. (1921, November 30).Referee (Sydney, NSW : 1886 - 1939), p. 14. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article121168314
PITTWATER REGATTA- TO-MORROW'S GREAT EVENTS
(By PELORUS.)
There has been a flight of white wings from Port Jackson. The racing yachts have sailed north to Broken Bay, and, for the time being Pittwater will be the place of contest. Cries of 'Stand by' and 'Lee, oh' will echo round the neighboring hills.
The local boating world is looking forward with keen interest to Pittwater regatta tomorrow. The wish of all is that the day will be fine and suitable in all respects for the great aquatic event, with its big programme of sailing, rowing, and motor craft events. Last season the regatta was held on New Year's Eve, after a tempestuous night, in strong southerly weather, but with success. It is doubtful whether a tornado would dishearten the committee of this regatta.
ITS IMPORTANCE.
The only people who do not enthuse over Pittwater regatta are those who do not know the beautiful southern arm of Broken Bay, with its five miles of broad blue sea, fringed with silver sanded beaches and green-topped hills, which offer unique facilities for aquatic sports of all kinds. Pittwater regatta never fails to bring boating men together, not only in the field of competition, but also socially.
THE YACHTING EVENTS.
The most important of the regatta yacht races will be the all-yachts handicap, best-and-best conditions, over a course from the flagship, moored off Newport, round a mark off Sandy Point, thence back round the flagship, round mark off Wood's Point, round a mark off Careel Point, round the flagship and marks off Wood's and Careel Points, again, to a finish between the starter's boat and the flagship, a distance of 17 miles. The prizes are the Pittwater Regatta Cup, valued at £15/15/, presented, by Mr. J. Spencer Brunton, and £5/5/;second, £4/4/ ; third, £2/2/. The entries and handicaps for this event have already been published in this column, In the event of a cruiser type of yacht not gaining first or second place in the race, a prize, donated by Mr. S. M. Dempster, will be presented to the first boat to the class to finish.
RESTRICTED CLASS.
Probably the most interesting of all the sailing events will be the scratch race for the 21ft restricted class yachts, over a course of nearly 12 miles. The prizes for the event will be a silver cup presented by Mr. F. J. S, Young, president of the regatta, and 5/5/; and second and third prizes of £3/3/ and£1/1/. Corella. in the absence of her owner Lord Forster, will be sailed by Mr. W. D. M. Taylor. E.O.J., Boomerang, Inez, Gumleaf, and Nettle will also compete.
GENERAL HANDICAP.
This race will be sailed over a course of llr{ miles for prizes of £6 and a trophy (presented by Mr. Arthur Marks)for first, £3 and a case of wine for second, and £1 and a case of wine for third Entries have been published, except that Mr. A. C. Saxton's Janet hasalso entered, and will start 7min behindscratch.
NEXT MONTH.
January will be a busy month with the yachts. In it the R.S.Y.S. has two fixtures—on the 13th, the race, starting at11 a.m., over a part ocean course, for the Renown Cup ; and on the 27th the race for the Gascoigne Cup over a course from Neutral Bay, round a mark off Lone Reef, and back. On the 20tn, races will be sailed under the flag of the R P A Y C. for the Albert Gold Cup and the Magic Cup. The latter will be for the restricted class only. Races for cruisers under the auspices of the new yacht club will take place on the 6t'n and27th. On the 13th the Sydney Amateur Club will sail its championship event, and on the 20th an ocean race. On the26th the Anniversary regatta will be held. Truly a full programme. PITTWATER REGATTA. (1922, December 29). Arrow (Sydney, NSW : 1916 - 1933), p. 11. Retrieved fromhttp://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article103445446
ROYAL SYDNEY YACHT SQUADRON GARDEN PARTY.
Afternoon Tea on the lawn.
View From the Grounds.
Vice-Admiral Sir W. Fawkes Watching the Cutter Race
This season's opening ceremony of the Royal Sydney Yacht Squadron was favored with ideal weather. Last year the fixture had to be postponed owing to rain. The gathering on Ootober 27 was pleasant in every way. The grounds at Kirribilli were a picture, and the sight from the lawn was responsible for many praises. In Neutral Bay and off the grounds the yachts gaily dressed' were at anchor, while the visitors were either, strolling about or gazing on the races which formed part of the programme., Vice-Admiral Fawkes and Lady Fawkes were present. On their arrival they were received by the vice-commodore, Mr. Walter Reeks.
The yachts included Wahine (W. Reeks),Electra (T. H. Kolly), Aotoa (C. Lloyd-Jones),Mavis (Lover), Athene (D. Carment), Scotia(T. W. Bremner)., Violet (F. J. Jackson), Nanoya, T. Marshall), Culwulla (W. M. Marks), Magic (A. C Saxton). Beacon (J. S. Brunton),Bona (H. Binnie), Dolphin (G. S. Brock), Tartan (G. Hungerfords and H. Henty), Miranda(Dr. C. MacLaurin and G. H. Leibus), Doreen(P. Trebeck), Meteor (Rabett), Boomerang(W. Plunkett), Firefly (F. Empson), Thistle(Dr. J. Robertson), and Lara (J. Thompson).
In the contest for men-of-war cutters, those from the flagship Powerful filled all three places, the third being first, the first second, and the second third. There were 23 starters in the skiff race, which went to Newtown (J. Graham), 5min. with Oweenee (T. M. Banks),2%min, second, nearly 2mln' later, and Aubrey(Rev. J. Cosh), 23min, third. SAILING. (1906, October 31). Australian Town and Country Journal(NSW : 1870 - 1907), p. 36. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article71542264
Some Sydney Yachts and their Owners.
(See illustrations on page 21.)
The Sydney yachtsmen, who have been hibernating during the past few months, are now be-stirring themselves, drying; painting, and generally overhauling their boats for the forthcoming sailing 'season, which promises to boom, now that the Governor has purchased the Bronzewing, and intimated his intention of competing in the various club events during the ensuing season. Everybody will be talking yachting. They will have the correct equipment in the way of dress, and a pair of field glasses carelessly slung over the shoulders. They will gaze knowingly at the sky, and walk round with legs wide apart, in proper nautical style. The more intrepid may be induced to invest in a boat, and, if so, there will be some fun for the spectator watching the strange and startling 'results following the rash experi-ments of the adventurous "green hands." Any-way, it may do some good by converting a few dudes into men by inducing them to take sport in a sturdy and manly fashion.
Few sports appeal to so many in some form or other as does yachting - the deep keeler, the rater, the open boats, dingeys, and various other craft, all afford thousands health and pleasure. The trend of boat-building of late years has been largely influenced by the "freak," or extreme racing type. The racer has been condemned as ofno practical value, and because of the high cost, and short life, still it must be remembered that many things have been learned from it. Racing men have, from their desire of excitement in com-petition, gone far to develop a type of boat most desirable for general sailing; large deck area as compared to sail area, is now almost universal. There is also a tendency to abandon the bowsprital together, and the general construction resembles in many other ways the recognised racer, which goes to show its, accepted and proved value, or the adoption would not have been so universal.
Mr. T. Bremner, who is an ardent yachtsman, was the first to put his trim little boat, the Fairlie, in the water. The Isea will soon be ready for racing work, and, with her owner (Mr. W. M. Marks) at the tiller, she will, make things pretty lively for the other cracks this season. Mr. W.M. Cameron's Iduna is one of the largest and most commodious boats in 'the harbor, rating almost 23tons. Her genial owner is now having her tho- roughly overhauled at Ford's yard, Berry's Bay. Mr. Walter Reeks, our best naval architect, all marine men will be glad to hear, has recovered remarkably from his recent illness. Mr. F. J. Jackson, the father of yachting in Sydney Harbor, isone or tihe oldest and best-known votaries of the sport. He is one of the original founders of both clubs, and the owner of the well-found and comfortable yacht Violet, and stands high in the opinion of all yachtsmen for his experience and expert knowledge in the cult of sailing.
Mr. Sam Hordern, the owner of the White Wings, and commodore of the Prince Alfred Yacht Club, is a generous and popular patron of all marine pastimes. Last year he spent over £2000 on this sport alone, and it is mooted that he intends, if practicable, to establish club rooms entirely at his own expense, where members could meet and discuss the vital questions of the hour. Dr. M'Cormick, owner of the Thelma, is busy getting his boat in order. She was designed by Mr. Walter Reeks for Mr. Hoare some years ago, but is still the best all-round boat in the harbor. Mr.C. Newman, the owner of the Archina, is unbending his sails for a good season's work.
On page 21
1-Mr T W Bremner owner of the "Fairlie." 2.-Mr. W. M. Marks, owner of the "Isea." 3.-Mr. W. A. Cameron's "Iduna." 4.-Mr. Walter Reeks."' 5.-Mr. F. J. Jackson, owner of the "Violet." 6.-Mr. Sam. Hordern, Commodore P.A.Y.C. 7 -Dr.M'Cormick owner of-the "Thelma." 8-Mr. C. E. Newman, owner of the "Archina." 9.-Mr. T. A. Dibbs's steam yacht "Ena.".10;-“White Wings."
1 (See letterpress on page 34.) Some Sydney Yachts and their Owners. (1899, September 30).Australian Town and Country Journal(NSW : 1870 - 1907), p. 24. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article71334193
Pittwater Regatta 1921 threads collected and collated by A J Guesdon, 2013.