Port Stephens Yacht Club Appoints First Female Commodore in Club History

Port Stephens Yacht Club has appointed Margaux Everett as Commodore, marking the first time in the Club’s history that a woman has held the role.

Margaux brings more than 25 years of marketing and branding experience including communications, stakeholder engagement, business strategy, destination development and community engagement. Since joining PSYC, she has played a significant role in expanding the Club’s digital presence, member communications, event promotion, and broader public engagement.

Under her leadership in marketing and communications, PSYC’s digital channels have grown to more than 565,000 organic monthly views, helping showcase sailing and waterfront life in Port Stephens to audiences well beyond the local region.

An active sailor for more than 20 years, Margaux has sailed across clubs including Sydney Amateur Sailing Club, Royal Prince Alfred Yacht Club and PSYC, participating in regattas throughout New South Wales and at Hamilton Island Race Week.

She is also the owner of a 21-foot Yngling currently being restored with the assistance of Arty Bell, local marine mechanic and rope rigger, with plans for the yacht to return to Wednesday afternoon racing at PSYC.

“Sailing clubs across Australia are facing many of the same challenges - rising operational costs, changing participation habits, and the ongoing need to attract new people into the sport,” said Margaux.

“Sailing can appear intimidating from the outside, particularly for people who have never stepped aboard a yacht before. Clubs have an important role to play in creating welcoming environments where people can discover sailing, gain confidence on the water, and build lasting friendships through the sport.

“We are also proud to have recently collaborated with Invictus Australia and look forward to welcoming participants onto the water with PSYC. Sailing has a unique ability to build confidence, resilience, connection and community.”

A key focus moving forward will be strengthening participation through the PSYC Training Academy, supporting club racing and social sailing, expanding events and regattas, and increasing engagement across the broader Port Stephens community.

The appointment comes as PSYC prepares for the launch of the inaugural PSYC Passage Regatta over the October Long Weekend, expected to attract visiting yachts and crews from across New South Wales.

PSYC Vice Commodore Richard Kerr said the appointment reflects the Club’s commitment to participation, growth, and long-term sustainability.

“Margaux brings energy, strategic thinking, communication expertise, and a genuine passion for sailing and club culture,” he said.

“She understands the importance of preserving the traditions of sailing clubs while also recognising the need to engage new generations and broaden participation in the sport.”

For media enquiries, interviews or images:

Margaux Everett
Commodore
Port Stephens Yacht Club
Email: commodore@psyc.com.au
Phone: 0400 492 100