News from the Autumn Delegates' Meeting
at Glencoe, 11th November 2006

the Secretary exhibited the latest version of the website’s Events page for 2007, which already had a number of events listed. WIYC thought that the Tobermory Regatta would probably be on the same weekend as it is not tidally dependent, i.e: 14/15th July. MSA’s Arisaig Regatta is to be on 21st July – they are intending for the future to expand to include a longer offshore race. OSC dates for 2 regattas in May and Round Mull Race on the June/July weekend fit well with having the suggested WHISCA Wheel overnight race from Onich to Tobermory on 13th July – Tobermory Regatta date to be confirmed ASAP, GBC willing to start the race (at 2000 hrs) if WIYC can find a timetaker for the finish. Not yet known what dates the Lochalsh Flotilla, Plockton SBSC, Skye SC or Lochcarron SC intended – it was felt that Ardnamurchan Point was not the psychological barrier it used to be and these clubs must be encouraged further to join us, especially by those who have some contact with them from time to time.

there was a strong feeling against the “imitation consultations” being held for such schemes as the intended Coastal and Marine National Park, all with minimal publicity and little or no notice. The entrance to Loch Creran was reported to now carry large signs forbidding entry to trawlers, which the fishing lobby is against. The Secretary pointed out that the loch is apparently unique in Europe, possibly globally, for the proportion of its area that is occupied by seaworm reefs. Regarding the National Park, Hamish said that it was on an entirely different scale to other Marine NP’s e.g. in New Zealand, and adding bureaucracy never adds freedom. We do not have the facilities here that are taken for granted elsewhere and this must be recognised in any legislation. Anne Cleave said that the tourism organisations on Mull favour the proposal. Agreed we should seek to brief MSP’s on our views: Chairman and Secretary to consult and draw up a letter. Fraser Grigor said there should be exceptions made in regulations for such activities as fishing under oars and/or sail - this works well in such places as Falmouth. Anne also said that there is a move on to get new developments under way that will be forbidden if the area does become the National Park. The Chairman said that small marinas are to mushroom. The Easdale and Luing fixed bridge proposals were also discussed; on the latter, a high-level bridge is now the only practicable option and it is going to be very expensive if proceeded with. We do not favour a bridge at Easdale. There is reported to be a lot of feeling in Mull that they are now at a disadvantage vis-à-vis Skye, because of removal of the bridge tolls.

it is the 60th West Highland Yachting Week in 2007 and there are to be extra events celebrating this. Tennents remain as sponsors for at least 2 years. The Secretary announced that, having got a bigger boat to sail in blue waters, he wished to resign. It was agreed that three people were needed to understudy his different functions – a Treasurer, a Secretary and a Webmaster. Members to see whom they could propose from among their own membership. If needed, as it is not known when he will actually be leaving, a General Delegates’ Meeting can be convened to ratify the new personnel.

Spring Delegates' Meeting - 1100 Saturday, 17th March 2007 at Oban SC.