The 2024 Australian Sailing Volunteer of the Year Award has been awarded to Peter Royle and Malcolm Hughes from Adelaide Sailing Club. As volunteers, their names have become synonymous with dedication, leadership and impact. Over the past three years, Peter and Malcolm have been instrumental in putting South Australia on the global sailing map.
As Commodore and Vice Commodore, they have led the club through a remarkable season that included three major ILCA regattas – the Oceania National Championships, Men’s World Championships and Olympic Qualifier, and the Masters World Championships. These events brought more than 1,000 participants to Adelaide and were recognised as ‘hallmark events’ by the South Australian government.
Peter and Malcolm coordinated over 100 volunteers per day across the three-week ILCA series. They didn’t just manage operations – they nurtured a culture of community, care and pride. Volunteers were trained, supported and empowered with many now bringing their newly developed skills back to clubs across South Australia.
“The most rewarding part of volunteering is seeing our club thrive and being full of pride for our volunteers,” Peter said.
“Whether it’s running a World Championship regatta or supporting our Learn to Sail program – great people doing great things is what it’s all about.”
Their contributions go well beyond single events. Week in, week out, they are at Adelaide Sailing Club coordinating volunteers, mentoring newcomers and ensuring regular club racing runs smoothly. Their approachability and enthusiasm have become a magnet for others looking to get involved.
When it comes to his proudest moment as a volunteer, Peter nailed it down to one single moment.
“The final day of the ILCA7 Men’s Worlds in 2024 – Matt Wearn winning his second straight world title, virtually securing his place at the Paris Olympics. The whole sailing world watched, and it was Adelaide Sailing Club volunteers who ran the show. That still gives me goosebumps. I was literally bursting with pride. Best day ever!”
Peter believes volunteering in sailing is as much about community as it is about contribution. He encourages newcomers to approach their local club with a “can-do and want to learn” mindset.
“There are so many roles at a club. All are important. Join your club – even as a volunteer member – so you’re in the loop and can position yourself to be part of the fun. And as for training, Australian Sailing has great modules to help you upskill and refresh,” Peter said.
Peter and Malcolm, have been the driving force behind Adelaide Sailing Club’s recent success. They have elevated Adelaide’s global reputation through extraordinary teamwork and an unwavering commitment to the spirit of volunteerism.
