After many years of painstaking research and interviews by the author, the history of one of Australia’s sporting icons, Cruising Yacht Club of Australia, comes alive in ‘From Ratbags to Respectability’.

This history of the Cruising Yacht Club of Australia is two stories inextricably linked.  One is of the Club’s struggle from humble beginnings to a position of prominence in the world of ocean racing.  The other is the experience of the Sydney Hobart Yacht Race and the lessons learned that propelled the club into the vanguard of safety in ocean racing, where it remains today.

‘From Ratbags to Respectability’ tells the story of the foundation of the club and its 63 years of great ocean races, alongside a fascinating account of yachting characters, harbour races and the community that helps make the CYCA one of the pre-eminent ocean racing organisations in the world.  ‘From Ratbags to Respectability’ was written by David Colfelt, long-standing CYCA member, and past editor of Offshore Yachting magazine.

Beautifully presented in hardcover, ‘coffee table’ style, ‘From Ratbags to Respectability’ incorporates over 150 black and white and full colour images, with pull-out quotes and comments from prominent club members.

Take a sneak peak at the early history (1944-1954), the evolutionary years (1955-1964) and the revolutionary years (1976-1985)

CYCA members are invited to purchase From Ratbags to Respectability at the CYCA member price of A$49.95. (saving $10 off the recommended retail price). Friends, yachting ethusiants and the general public can also purchase a copy of ‘From Ratbags to Respectability’ for A$59.95 (RRP).

Pick-up one from the CYCA Reception today.

Terms & Conditions
# CYCA Member Price of $49.95 is available to financial CYCA members.