Providing a colorful backdrop to our stunning village .
Proposal code:
AP-2025-06-154
TLFYC Clubhouse Renovation This proposal seeks funding for the replacement of the clubhouse roof and interior upgrades to continue providing essential water based skills for all ages and abilities.
Estimated Price
40000
I am writing on behalf of Tarbert Loch Fyne Yacht Club (TLFYC), also known as Tarbert Toppers, to express our interest in applying for funding to restore our historic clubhouse on Pier Road, Tarbert. Since its founding, this building has played a vital role in our village, serving as the birthplace of the fishing skiffs during the herring fishing era. As fishermen transitioned from sails to engines, they established a sailing club to refine their skills, which eventually fostered a long tradition of keelboat racing—including Round Arran races and other local courses.
Over the decades, the clubhouse has expanded its role, hiring out rowing dinghies and working closely with the Coastguard, providing a base station for maritime operations.
In the 1980s, our club introduced Tarbert Toppers, an initiative where volunteers teach children and adults essential sailing skills, promoting water confidence, health, and wellbeing. These experiences provide a completely analogue escape from life’s stresses and social pressures, allowing individuals to develop resilience, independence, and self-confidence.
One of our achievements has been the Replica Skiff Project, where schoolchildren learned traditional wooden boatbuilding skills, constructing the iconic Wee Dooker, which now holds a place of honor at the harbor front of which we also mange its upkeep.
We proudly offer training in boat handling, sailing, kayaking, rowing, windsurfing, and other watersports for individuals of all ages. Our programs have been especially beneficial for individuals with additional needs, providing them with valuable skills, first aid training, and maritime experience. Many of our cadets have gone on to pursue successful careers at sea, with some even achieving Olympic success.
However, after many years of service, our clubhouse is showing significant signs of wear and tear. To continue providing watersports experiences and training to the community and visitors, we are seeking funding to replace the roof, stabilize the building, and upgrade the interior facilities, including toilets and the kitchen area. These improvements will ensure that our sailing and watersports facility remains a cornerstone of Tarbert for generations to come.
We would greatly appreciate the opportunity to proceed with an expression of interest and any assistance in completing the application process. Please let us know how we may move forward.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Best regards, Tony Barker Commodore, Tarbert Loch Fyne Yacht Club Mobile: 07990502255
