There were still more sea horses than cigarette stompies in the Knysna lagoon when the first wooden jetty signalled the birth of Knysna Yacht Club in 1910.
A site that once served as a loading zone for local timber merchants is now celebrating its 115th anniversary milestone. It has survived two World Wars, countless floods, and over a century of local government politics.
In its milestone year it has a bonus achievement – the renewal of its 25-year lease with South African National Parks. “We’re very happy to get that,” says former Club commodore Mike Jacobs, now a director of the Ocean Sailing Association of Southern Africa.
The Club recently also secured Western Cape Heritage status on account of its rich history and surviving original infrastructure, including the old ship ballast that underpins the jetty. “The ships that came in to load timber threw out their ballast, and that became the walkway,” Jacobs said.
It’s not only Knysna celebrating a significant milestone. This year marks Royal Cape Yacht Club’s 120th anniversary. But way out in front in terms of antiquity is the Royal Natal Yacht Club, which this year turns 167 – established in 1858.
Unfortunately, security of tenure remains an issue for some clubs, which remain on very short leases. Both Gqeberha and Mossel Bay lost their facilities a few years back.
Efforts are underway to ensure the country’s sailing heritage – and the accompanying skills training – survives for future generations