Notes from a NECRA Meeting held at Sunderland YC

9th Nov 04

1. Introduction

A welcome and introduction was given by Peter Stenner

2. Apologies

Apologies were received from Harold Usherwood.

3. Attendees

Peter Stenner RNYC & NECRA
Ken Cameron WBA
Brian Jameson WBA
David Wheldon SYC & NECRA & RYA
David Mathews SYC
Colin Jackson THYC
Larry Wilkinson THYC
Terry Hogg THYC & NECRA
Alan Smith WYC
John Allen WYC
Peter Cossins CYC
Nick Spurr CYC
Tony Graves Scarborough YC

4. Current Status

PS made the following points

5. Views from Clubs

CYC WBA SYC THYC WYC Scarborough YC - RYA

6. Event Structure?

NECRA unable to influence Regatta races, current NECRA Mgt not involved in the well being of clubs.
Roker and Biyth were good examples of regattas this year, should try similar at Hartlepool and Whitby.
North Sea Race 8th July, what about a feeder race?
Consider changing Bass Rock with Hartlepool to Fams to Sunderland as alternative. Do not increase size of programme already full enough, more would detract from club events.

7. Social

Need more emphasis on social side with food, and some form of event but must be able to talk and interact socially.

8. Communications

Poor this year, must try harder
Should encompass new technology and make more use of email and a web site.
Need more publicity e.g. newsletters, posters in clubs etc.

9. NERR

The current rating system is a barrier to some boats competing
Scarborough would like to use IRC however it was accepted that NERR has the advantage of being free.

10 AGM

Should management structure be reviewed to include Club representatives?
Hold on 30 Nov at THYC at 20.00, buffet to be provided and bar to be open.
Encourage skippers to bring crew.
Extend mailing list to past members.