To assist Members, we have put together a few points that should prevent you from receiving that inevitable glare from under the peak of a passing yachting cap and saving those yachtsmen and women having to splutter into their gin should you slip up when flying the flag.

The Australian Red Ensign flag is the most important flag aboard your vessel. Having the right size, displaying it properly and ensuring it is kept in top condition says the most about the yacht, her owner, crew, and the Club you represent, when accompanied by the Club’s burgee.

Most important of all is to always handle the national flag with dignity. It is disrespectful to wear a faded or tattered Ensign, or display a flag so large that it touches the deck or hangs in the water and cannot be dipped.

The Ensign should always be flown from the stern of the vessel between the hours of sunrise and sunset.

It should always be hoisted first and lowered last and must be the largest flag on the ship. No other flag should be displayed unless it is flying.

The CYCA burgee traditionally would be flown from the mast head, though your navigator may not appreciate the irregular wind data received from having the bowman lash a flag to the wand, so below the port spreader is the next best thing.

Members wishing to purchase a burgee can do so from reception or online through the CYCA Shop. here.

If you want to know more about the national flag and protocols for its appropriate use and the flying of the flag, the Department of Prime Minster and Cabinet has produced a booklet, which can be downloaded for free.

View the recommended flag and burgee sizes below. The Ensign can be purchased on the Australiana Flags website.