History & Historical Results - AMYA/ARYA

George MIDDLETON The First secretary of the Australian Model Yachting Association 1964. He sailed Marblehead (vane) also sailed ‘A’ class (vane). George was the person behind the formation of the AMYA. His club, the ‘Model Ship and Power Boat Club’ of South Australia were the instigators of the organization from the beginning (circa 1964). This club was basically a powerboat club. George steadfastly ran the organization. I think it could be said, believed this organization was ‘his’ to command and thought he knew best. Finally departed about 1976, trying to stop radio control from being used for racing model yachts. This somehow seemed to be the start of his fall from office.   This hold over the organization culminated in him, appointing himself as ‘Life Vice President’ and in the process, eventually lost office through his administrative style.

The George Middleton trophy came about by George’s widow who named a trophy to the memory of George, put the money up for it ‘for people who had played a significant role in organizing the National Championships in any one year’ in their state and started at the Sydney Nationals in 1984.

This organization (AMYA /ARYA) owes him much for his early work and enthusiasm.

Stephen Crewes shcrewes@bigpond.net.au  

National Historical Officer ARYA

17/3/2004

George MIDDLETON Memorial Trophy

This National Trophy is presented in the State that is holding the ARYA (formerly AMYA) Nationals.  Although it does not have a Deed of Gift the basis for presentation over the past years is to “The person from the host State who has made the greatest contribution to R/C Sailing in that State in the past year.”  This award is normally nominated by the State Council however on the 6^th January 2002 all Queensland Skippers nominated the recipient during that State’s National Championships.

Compiled by Bruce MATHERS