BACKGROUND

Moneypenny is a Reichel/Pugh-designed Mini Maxi 69 racing yacht built by McConaghy Boats. Originally launched in 2008 as a 65-foot vessel, she was later lengthened to 70 feet in 2019. Known for her speed and agility, Moneypenny has achieved significant accolades, including a third-place finish in IRC overall in the 2023 Rolex Sydney Hobart Race. The yacht has undergone numerous optimisiations, such as keel and bulb updates, a complete sail wardrobe refresh between 2019 and 2021, and structural enhancements under the guidance of Reichel/Pugh. These improvements have solidified Moneypenny’s reputation as a formidable competitor in blue water racing circuits.

Since her new owner, Rob Appleyard, acquired Moneypenny in 2024, she has quickly proven to still be a top contender in Australia’s maxi racing scene. In her first season under new ownership, Moneypenny secured an impressive third place in the 2024 One Circular Quay Australian Maxi Championship, showcasing her speed, performance, and competitiveness against the country’s best maxi race yachts.

Looking ahead, Moneypenny will campaign in Perth for the start of the 2025 season before heading to the east coast in July to compete in Australia’s premier offshore and inshore maxi racing events for the remainder of the year. Throughout her campaign, she will race under the flag of Royal Freshwater Bay Yacht Club (RFBYC), one of Western Australia’s most prestigious yacht clubs. Founded in 1896 and located on the Swan River, RFBYC has a rich history of fostering competitive sailing, from grassroots programs to elite ocean racing. The club has long been a hub for offshore and one-design racing, producing world-class sailors and supporting major yachting events. Since Moneypenny’s arrival, RFBYC has warmly welcomed her into the fleet, expressing great enthusiasm and support for having such a high-calibre racing yacht represent the club on the national stage.