ABOUT 30 people turned up to last week's Abell Point Yacht Club (APYC) AGM where the foundations were laid for a new and invigorated club.

A total of 12 people signed up for committee positions, giving the club a solid organisational base consisting of a wide range of boating enthusiasts.

Immediate past commodore and multihull sailor Rupert King handed over the reigns to incoming commodore Colin Bell. Mr Bell owns the Quadrant Marine chandlery in the Abell Point Marina's north village and along with incoming secretary Barry Lake, was previously involved in the cruising division of the club.

Another sailor, Steve Halter, now holds the position of vice commodore, with Almuth Lorenz taking the role of treasurer. Ms Lorenz has played a key part in nurturing junior sailing in the Whitsundays, with her children Klaus and Eva representing the region at state, national and even international levels.

Other committee members include former America's Cup sailors Christophe Vanek and Don Buckley, dive shop owner Ken Sharpe, long-term local sailor Tommy Negendahl, life member Frank Nachtigal and Luke McCaul, who represents the club's corporate sponsor, the Abell Point Marina.

Representing the fishing and power boat fraternities is Kevin Collins, from Airlie's Rum Bar and Fish D'Vine.

What all of these committee members have in common is an interest in boating, whether power or sail, and a general desire to get out on the water.

Mr Bell said with this mix of people it was hoped the club would be able to cater for all boating sectors in the Whitsundays.

Mr Collins was keen to point out that while club traditions such as the Warri Cup and Coral Coast Rally and Race would continue, there would be a new additional focus on social activities and events that would include power boats.

"I've been here as a boater for 30 years and I've never felt I belonged to a sailing club so [for people like me] this will give fellowship [and the opportunity of] mixing with other boaties that I know to wave at but don't know personally. Boaties and fisherman are all kindred spirits basically," he said.

The new committee will be holding its first meeting today (Thursday, December 18), at which a plan for future direction and rough calendar for 2015 is expected to be set.

For more information or to join the club, email apyc@hotmail.com or call Colin Bell on 0448 809 890.