To be bestowed Life Membership of Sandringham Yacht Club is the highest honour in our Club. It recognises enormous dedication, passion and contribution to our Club, normally over a long and extended period. After decades of service and dedication to his beloved SYC, Philip Burn was recently awarded Life Membership by Commodore Sue Bowes at the recent Annual General Meeting on 17 September 2024.
Philip first joined SYC back in 1963 and he has been a tireless contributor to the Club over an extended period.
Philip spent some 15 years on General Committee filling many roles including as OTB Club Captain, Treasurer, Rear Commodore, Vice Commodore & Commodore between 2008 – 2010. In fact Philip had the privilege of being the Commodore to officially open the current Clubhouse.
Even after Philip’s time on General Committee he has continued to contribute in a wide range of other capacities. He was extensively involved in race management for a very long period, has been a member of the SYC Foundation since 2011 including 8 years as Chairman, he was instrumental in setting up the SYC Boating Academy in its formative years, he was involved on the Committee for our Centenary celebrations as well as being extensively involved in the Melbourne to Osaka Yacht Race over several races.
Philip also secured SYC membership of the International Council of Yacht Clubs.
A consummate professional with extensive managerial experience and expertise, Philip has also been an invaluable management resource for the staff on Constitutional and governance matters of significance over the last 20 years. And most recently he also pulled together the business plan for the SYC J70 Sailing Program.
In congratulating Philip we also extend our heartfelt appreciation to Philip’s lovely wife Jane. With herself involved extensively in Club affairs, Philip’s various commitments to SYC meant extended time away from home.
On behalf of all members we thank Philip and congratulate him on this prestigious and highly deserved accolade.
Philip Burn (left) pictured with wife Jane and their two children Andrew and Sarah at the AGM.