The RMC Brisbane Escape 2024, held from June 27th to 30th, was a well-organized and enjoyable event that brought together 15 Riviera vessels and their owners for a weekend of cruising, exploration, and social activities. Despite some changes in the plan due to weather, the event was a success, offering both pre-organized experiences and time for individual exploration.
The event began on Thursday with a slow cruise north from Sovereign Islands into Moreton Bay. Some vessels coordinated at the start, while others joined the group later in the afternoon or the following morning. Originally, the plan was to anchor at Peel Island, but with weather moving in from the south, Travis Edney, who was running the trip on the crew vessel—a 2022 Riviera 5400 SY Platinum—made the call to adjust the plans. Instead, the fleet anchored at Myora, a more protected spot north of Dunwich on North Stradbroke Island. This proved to be a wise decision as the southern winds arrived later in the evening.
Thursday afternoon saw a gathering of Riviera owners at a three-vessel raft-up at Myora. The crew boat, Somnium (a 545 SUV), and Joka (another 5400 SY Platinum) were the focal points for a relaxed get-together, with owners enjoying drinks and conversation as they settled in for the night.
Friday morning was all about leisure. After a lazy start on anchor, with breakfast onboard, some owners took the opportunity to fish from their tenders. By mid-morning, the group was ready to cross Moreton Bay, heading west towards the mouth of the Brisbane River. The fleet made its way up the river, timing their arrival to Dockside Marina for a slack tide, ensuring a smooth berthing process.
Once berthed, the atmosphere was lively as new connections were made and old friends caught up. That evening, some owners opted for a relaxed dinner, while others participated in a pre-organized cooking experience at Vanilla Zulu. This hands-on culinary adventure provided a fun and interactive way to spend the evening, with attendees enjoying both the cooking and the company.
Saturday offered a mix of activities. For the adventurous, the Story Bridge Climb provided a unique perspective of the city, while others explored Brisbane at their own pace. The group reconvened for lunch at Felons Brewing Co., nestled under the Story Bridge at Howard Street Wharf, where the day’s experiences were shared over good food and drinks.
The afternoon was left open for relaxation or further exploration, before the highlight of the evening—the Comedy Show at Sit Down Comedy Club. Maxi taxis were organized to transport everyone to the venue, where they enjoyed a night of laughs with a great lineup of comedians and a delicious dinner.
Sunday marked the final day of the event. After departing Dockside Marina, the group made its way to Peel Island for a scenic lunch stop before heading back to the Gold Coast. The weekend wrapped up successfully, with everyone appreciating the balance of organized events and free time to explore on their own.
Overall, the RMC Brisbane Escape 2024 was a well-received experience, with all participants enjoying the mix of activities and the opportunity to connect with fellow Riviera owners. The event’s success lies in its flexibility, offering something for everyone while ensuring a memorable and enjoyable weekend for all.
