With stars in their eyes

Marking the Covid-delayed launch of RNZYS history

When launching their latest book, most authors are protected by the fact that potential buyers are yet to read a word – and so are virtually guaranteed to be polite. But this advantage went topsy turvy last year when the country went into Covid lockdown and the launch event for Salt in our Blood, written by Squadron member and Breeze editor, Ivor Wilkins, had to be cancelled.

“There was no opportunity to run for the hills before the first reviews were out,” said Ivor. He need not have worried though. The richly illustrated 464-page publication, capturing the Squadron’s proud history dating back to 1871, proved to be a winner with members and friends. Purchased on-line, or from the Squadron Store, the book now sits on coffee tables and on boats throughout the country and overseas.

Fast forward to winter this year. No longer do crowd numbers restrict a celebration and guests gathered for a book signing evening for the 150th commemorative book, that had taken Ivor three years to research, write and publish – and another year to be officially launched.

Pictured at the book signing evening… 1/ From left, Glenys Milne, author Ivor Wilkins, Elspeth Wilkins and Judy Carmichael. 2/ June Partridge and Les Whiting. 3/ Claudia Montgomery and the evening’s presenter Life Member Peter Montgomery. 4/ From left, Kath and Natalie Burrett and Past Commodore Steve Burrett. 5/ Chairman of the Squadron’s 150th Anniversary Committee and Life Member Colin Carran and Pat Carran. Story and pictures by Debra Douglas

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