BOAT GOLD COAST MAGAZINE JAN - MARCH 2020

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BOAT GOLD COAST

Editor’s Note - Bring on the MMXX!

W

elcome to our 20th edition and welcome to 2020! (MMXX is 2020 in Roman numerals.) It may just be a coincidence that our 20th edition actually gets published at the beginning of 2020, but we think it is serendipitous, too.

A few years ago, not a few writers have toyed with the idea that many of the things we use would be obsolete by 2020. The list includes print media, landline phones, paper maps, printed books, digital cameras, and analogue watches. Guess what? It’s 2020 and we still have all these in our midst, and a lot of them are going through a renaissance.

Let’s start with maps and charts. The GPS and other digital navigational tools have really helped many of us address the difficulties of navigation.

However, most pundits will tell you that the paper charts are as valuable now as the were before. In fact, the use of paper charts together with digital plotters is a must. We can recall how a presumably hi-tech US navy ship hit a coral reef years ago, and all because they relied exclusively on their digital tools.

And now let’s look at print media. If you are reading this, then print is defintiely not dead. The 21st century did promise a paperless society — to save the trees. But while devices may have saved some trees, we have created more waste that we cannot reuse — an equally huge problem for us. We may eventually end up with a paperless — and even a desktop computer-free — society in the future, but let’s face it, you do like reading and keeping all the print editions of our magazines anyway, right?

So going back to the auspicious “20” — This 20th edition is packed with stories, boats, events, activities, anniversaries, and campaigns, including at least: 20 races, 20 clubs holding events, 20 fishing for fish and prawns, and 20 new models of boats released. We also believe that Summer 2020 also promises at least: 20 new owners of boats, and 20 people who will go out fishing for the first time. Furthermore, the Gold Coast marine precinct as we know now is celebrating its 20th anniversary this year.

Our Crew PUBLISHER

Competitive Brands Pty. Ltd.

DIRECTOR

Andy Kancachian

EDITOR

Roselle Tenefrancia editor@boatgoldcoast.com.au

ADVERTISE

Sales Enquiries

andy@boatgoldcoast.com.au sales@boatgoldcoast.com.au

CONTRIBUTORS Marcel Priest, Ian Anderson, Paul Burt, Nic Welch, Tynan Holmes, Lani Esp-Morse, Adam Vagg, Martin Schwede, Stephen Booth, Shari Newton, Phil Peterson, Marnie Ebeling, Matty Savas, Kellie Byrnes, Gaelle Faivre, Claire Strodder, Jackie Parrt, Noel Parry, Karla Del Herbert-Evans, Woody Zen, Chris Logan, Tanya Rabe, Sonia Wilkinson, Paul Wilson, Narayan Pattison, Lowen Taylor, Terry Davis, Jeni Bone, Scott Whimpey, Brad Palmer, Danielle Botes, Jayne Keogh, Mark Bradford, Kevin Green, Sophia Sorensen.

COVER PHOTO

The new Parker 850 Voyager leads the way for the outboard revolution. A two steps hull reduces friction, planing threshold and consumption, and also increases top speeds. Available at nautilusaustralia.com.au. (Photo © Salty Dingo 2019)

Gold Coast magazine is FREE to readers. We print 13,000 copies, and hand deliver to 400 participating locations for distribution on the Gold Coast and surrounding suburbs, cities and towns, from Tweed Heads, throughout the Gold Coast to Manly, also around Moreton Bay and Brisbane.

Boat Gold Coast is available nationally via subscription.

Order now at www.isubscribe.com.au/boatGC

As we mark our entry into the new year, we also continue to celebrate the life of our beloved advertising consultant who worked patiently and tirelessly with us to produce our past 20 editions. Richard “Tricky” Newman left us the legacy of 20 editions where he put his hard work to establish and maintain relationships with our advertising partners. His passion for the boating industry and his love for the stories shared in our magazine were his invaluable contributions to our success. He helped build the foundations that we are now relying upon so we can continue sharing your stories for another 20 editions and more.

With that, we leave you to turn the next pages and revel in the offerings of the boating industry and the waterways of the Gold Coast and beyond.

Have a safe and enjoyable Summer boating adventure!

Roselle

editor@boatgoldcoast.com.au

This edition of Boat Gold Coast magazine is dedicated to our adverting consultant Richard 'Tricky' Newman who passed on 20 October 2019.

As we mourn the loss of a man who made a significant contribution to our magazine in the past five years, we also continue to celebrate his life and his legacy with us, and the beautiful memories that he has left with those whose lives he has touched in some way.

Connect with us BoatGoldCoast

Please address all communication to: Boat Gold Coast, P.O. Box 7441, G.C.M.C 9726 info@boatgoldcoast.com.au (07) 5679 0833 Acknowledgment of Country

Boat Gold Coast acknowledge and pay respects to the traditional Aboriginal people of the Gold Coast and their descendants, and also acknowledge the many Aboriginal people from other regions as well as Torres Strait and South Sea Islander people who now live in the local area and have made an important contribution to the community.

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Parker Boats

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BOAT GOLD COAST

Never Antifoul Again!

INSIDE THIS ISSUE 10 Photo Essay 12 Finance Tips 14 Ripple Effect 22 Paul Burt 32 Murray Cod 36 Prawn Lures 38 Game Fishing Club 42 Trailer Washdown 54 B'fast Creek Boat Club 58 Fish Fraser Island 67 Camping Tipplers Tips 68 Storm Surge 69 Marine Debris Project 72 Groundings

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Know the COLREGs 8 5 Nautical Training 7 78 Great Barrier Reef 80 Bream Recipe 84 Dogs Who Sail 86 Jet Ski Brothers 88 Power Boat Racing 92 Barefoot Skiing 102 Flag Shop 108 Events Guide 109 Safari Event 113 Sailing Summer

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BOAT PHOTOGRAPHY

THE LIGHT OF THE PARTY Photo yotclub.com.au

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ustom designed and built from the water up, The YOT Club is the World’s f irst Super Yacht Entertainment venue licensed for up to 400 guests over two luxurious levels. From your f irst step aboard you will be immersed in the YOT Club lifestyle, leaving the constraints of land behind. The YOT Club redef ines the way we experience the good life, featuring music that moves you, fashion that inspires you, cuisine to entice you and drinks to surprise you.

The YOT Club is every bit a deluxe Super Yacht designed as the ultimate entertainment venue. The fun is in the journey, cruising remarkable waterways, as you watch the world go by. The YOT Club allows you to experience being on the water, like nothing you have experienced before. yotclub.com.au Aqualuma LED Lighting is proud to have supplied 56 of their all-new

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GEN 5 - 24 Series Colour Change underwater lights to the Gold Coast’s newest superyacht, the YOT Club.

Aqualuma’s bigges t and brightes t light was chosen for it s full control sys tem and abilit y to colour change, s trobe, dim, and create and s tore unique lighting scenes for any of the YOT Club’s enter tainment occasions.

The control system allows the operator to access all 56 lights together, or select different banks of lights truly creating endless lighting options all controlled via an application on a tablet or a smartphone.

If you would like more information on how this exciting local manufacturer of the world’s best LED lighting can enhance your leisure boating or commercial lighting requirements, contact AQUALUMA directly at info@aqualuma.com; call 1300 145 555 or visit www.aqualuma.com.

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JAN - MARCH 2020

SPRINGWOOD Strength. Reliability. Dependability.

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BOAT GOLD COAST

Ph: 1300 CREDIT creditone.com.au

GET ON THE WATER SOONER A HOW-TO GUIDE

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ny seafarer knows that buying a boat is a huge investment and it can take some time to get from your initial concept to finally being out on the water.

Here at Credit One, we like to make this process as smooth as possible. That is why we have come up with this handy 4-step guide to get you sailing sooner.

STEP 1: CHOOSING A BOAT There’s a lot more to choosing a boat than just finding the right look. You need to consider what you’ll be using it for, how many people you intend to have on board, how much and what type of power you’ll be needing, as well as storage for your non-sailing days.

It also helps to consider what material your boat should be made of, whether you’re after a lightweight, aluminium-based craft or a more popular fibreglassbuilt vessel. Some boats can even be built with foam for added buoyancy.

If your primary goal is time spent out on the water trawling for trout with a couple of mates, you may consider a lightweight dinghy. Weekend wakeboarding with the family often calls for an aptly named wake boat. Or if racing or cruising is more your speed, you can’t go past a luxurious yacht.

Take some time and think about the important factors.

Do your research and feel free to ask plenty of questions along the way.

STEP 2: FINANCE & INSURANCE Now that you’ve chosen the boat of your dreams, you need to figure out how you’re going to pay for it.

You can spend your time researching different banks, financiers and insurers, OR you can go to Australia’s best-rated finance broker who will take care of the hard work for you.

Credit One is Australia’s best-rated broker with over 500 5-star reviews on Google, and with good reason.

Don’t just take our word for it, hear what our happy, new boat-owning, customers have to say.

Marie Whale recently sailed off into the sunset on her brand-new Sea Ray thanks to Credit One and couldn’t be happier. “I’d been looking at boats and brokers, doing a lot of research until I found one I was happy with. The entire process didn’t take very long to complete and I couldn’t have asked for more efficiency. Everything was taken care of over email, so I never had to step foot in a branch of a bank, and my broker Alan always kept in touch with what was happening. With Credit One I waited for nothing. It was a painless process.”

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Finding the right type of finance at the best rate can be a monumental task, but when you go through a broker, they’ll do the hard work for you.

Mati Batsinilas has this to say. “I found Credit One through the marine dealership where I purchased my boat. I knew they had an amazing track record with helping clients reach their goals, and with that kind of assurance, I knew I was only a phone call away! Jarred at Credit One made my life incredibly easy and took the right measures to ensure the road I was travelling on was not a dead end. The process for me was a walk in the park.”

Leaving the financing process in the hands of your broker allows more time for daydreaming about the fun parts of buying a new boat. Like, what to name your new vessel and where to take it on her maiden voyage.

A well-established company like Credit One will even have links to first class insurers and can help take care of that for you as well.

STEP 3: CHOOSING A NAME The name of your boat says a lot about its personality and yours, so it’s important to put some thought into the naming process. We recommend picking a theme and making a list to whittle down to the perfect identifier. A few different themes to look at when naming your boat include boating and sea-based puns, emotive or romantic names, classic clichés, or choosing something personal. To assist in the journey, we’ve listed a few favourites from each category.

Pursuit Boats

BOATING PUNS Nothing says “I’m a smart and interesting person” more than a well-crafted pun. If you’re looking for a pun that’s going to make the most sense to deep-thinking intellectuals, we recommend something along the lines of “Tight Lipped”, because as we all know, loose lips sink ships! If you like the thought of Carpe Diem but find it a bit too on the nose, why not go with “Seas the Day”.

ROMANTIC NAMES When purchasing a sea craft with your better half, a romantic name can be a good way to go. Just imagine christening your new vessel with a splash of champagne and announcing to the world the arrival of “The Love Boat”, “Happy Endings”, “The Great Escape” or “Living the Dream”.

CLASSIC CLICHÉS Look over any list of boat names from the last ten years and you’re guaranteed to see a few of these.

Whether it be “Serenity”, “Aquaholic”, “Second Wind” or “Freedom”, sometimes a cliché is a cliché for a reason. You can’t go wrong with a classic.

PERSONAL TOUCH Picture you’re in a movie and about to sail you yacht off into the sunset. Can you see your name splashed across the bow? Some sailors opt to use their own last name, while others choose a family member such as a parent. If you don’t want to narrow down to just one relative “Ohana” and “Whanau” are both all encompassing, and have a certain romantic ring to them. You may also consider naming your boat after a person who has had great influence in your life, or in the process of getting you out to sea. Catamaran Alan or Dayboat Jarred anybody?

STAGE 4: MAIDEN VOYAGE Once all the particulars are out of the way, you’re ready to hit the open ocean! There are plenty of resources out there to help plan your trip, whether you’re a seasoned sailor or heading out for the first time. If you’re recently retired and looking to get started on your next adventure check out OneAdventure.com.au/boating for some excellent articles to help get you going.

To get onto the sea sooner call the team at Credit One on 1300 Credit (1300 273 348) and we’ll get you started with pre-approval. You can also fill in an application online: www.boatsloansfinance.com.au.

Email us at boats@creditone.com.au.

JAN - MARCH 2020

BOAT GOLD COAST

Join the adventure! www.oneadventure.com.au

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Choose Smarter Boat Finance, Choose Credit One.

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For over 100,000 Austrtalian individuals and business since 1999.

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rom humble beginnings in 1959 with a single BP Service Station in Beenleigh, Midways who later became Motorama have expanded to having one of the most diverse new car portfolio’s and used car operations in South East Queensland. Founder, the late Jan Woelders, would have been over joyed to see his son John and grandson, Mark our current CEO, accept in 2006 the Family Business Australia award for best 3rd Generation Family Business nationally.

Motorama Group is known for its forward thinking and continued growth and this was recognized again this year 2019 with Deloittes naming them in the top eight Best Run Companies in Australia. The next big move for Motorama will be to consolidate their holdings and commitment to the Springwood/Beenleigh area with the opening of Motorama Springwood Jeep at a temporary location 3452 Pacific Highway, Springwood on Monday 2nd December, 2019.

COMPASS

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CHEROKEE

Independant and unbiased service to find you the best finance solution.

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Bringing the Premium Jeep Brand into this area which caters heavily to Caravans, Boats and 4x4 enthusiasts, is a real boost for the area as these vehicles offer high levels of performance, comfort and safety with up to 3.5 tonnes towing with a braked trailer.

The Dealership is now open for trading with a good selection of Jeep vehicles to see and test drive from the legendary Wrangler to refined elegance of the Grand Cherokee.

Cherokee and Grand Cherokee offer a range of engines from 4,6 and 8 cylinder petrol and V6 diesel options. Tow ratings range from just under 3 tonne to a massive 3.5 tonne making this one of the most capable towing SUV wagons available.

Compass, Cherokee and Grand Cherokee are available in Trailhawk configuration for off road purists or those with wanting to go extreme places with off-road trailers or beach launch their boats.

GRAND CHEROKEE

If you don’t get off the road much but you want to pull your expensive boat or van in style and with power to burn then Jeep have you covered with the Grand Cherokee Trackhawk with Supercharged V8 the most powerful SUV on the Australian Market.

There is a Jeep for every style, taste and budget so don’t drive ordinary when you could drive extraordinary. Book your test drive today.

Motorama will open a Brand New Dealership for Jeep in 2020 but don’t wait!

GET IN NOW FOR THE DEAL OF A LIFETIME! For more information contact Joel Mullins – Phone: 0410 062 611 Email: joel.mullins@motorama.com.au Web: motoramajeep.com.au

WRANGLER

GLADIATOR

Overseas Model shown, due mid 2020

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BOAT LIFESTYLE

The RIPPLE Effect A Testimonial From One of Our Readers

By Lani Esp-Morse

Penny (Adam’s mum) enjoying the Nerang sunset next to her Brig

Adam & kids, Lia and Kai, enjoying GC boating lifestyle in their Brig

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ust like a droplet hitting a body of still water, all it takes is one word, image or moment to create a ripple effect of events. Through different media, like online browsing or magazines at our fingertips, we consume masses of information in a matter of seconds every day. Although we may not realise it at the time, some of these split-second moments can even change our lives.

Through magazines like Boat Gold Coast, the best that Queensland’s east coast has to offer is presented to local and national audiences. Covering everything from local stories and community to boating culture, Boat Gold Coast showcases what makes the city unique. Not only having a great local reach through print, the magazine’s online accessibility also allows the local experiences to shine to a wider audience across Australia.

Recently, the magazine was approached by one of our readers, Adam Vagg, Sydney-based creative director and owner of Brave Design. Adam had been seeing the Coast through the eyes of the magazine as a regular reader. Growing up on Sydney’s North Shore, Adam has always had an “avid love of boats and boating in general.”

Initially visiting the Gold Coast in search of purchasing his own yacht, Adam experienced the boat-lovers’ paradise of the northern Coast first hand. “It all came about when I flew up to have a look at a Riviera for sale that I was planning on taking back down to Sydney. The broker took me to see a number of other boats around Sanctuary Cove and Sovereign Islands.”

Adam did not end up purchasing the boat that brought

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him up to the Coast, but he soon had his sights set on something else. “The trip allowed me to see a way of life that I had never dreamed of. Somehow, I had to make the transition of moving happen.”

I could commute, as the flight was only just over an hour. I could cut and print all the graphics up here, and then fly or drive down to install car and boat graphics once a week back in Sydney.”

A year later, Adam and his wife Lani started to explore the possibility of moving up to the Gold Coast. However, all would not be smooth sailing as Adam was faced with not only moving his family to an unfamiliar territory, but also his business. “We searched waterfronts from Mermaid Waters all the way up to Sovereign Islands, over seven separate visits.”

Inspired by his experience reading the magazine feature on the Fish Emporium, Adam would find himself led straight to the place he now calls home, as well as finally getting to enjoy the waterfront view and iconic fish and chips. Now based on the Gold Coast, Adam and Lani have found their own piece of paradise due to one eventful afternoon. “Although it took a couple of years to actually make it happen, we now have been living our dream for a bit over a year, living on Isle of Capri,” reflects Adam. “The Gold Coast has been so wonderful to us. We have met so many new friends and the local people have been very supportive with the starting up of Brave Design GC.”

“One day, getting hungry while searching and probably annoying the heck out of the local real estate agents, I remembered an ad I had seen in Boat Gold Coast magazine.” After countless house inspections and several tireless trips on the hunt for his perfect slice of the Gold Coast, Adam was hit with a ‘eureka’ moment. “It was the ad for a waterfront seafood restaurant that won us over, featuring a photo of old-fashioned fish ’n chips served in a wooden box,” Adam recalls. “That’s how my wife and I ended up having lunch at the Fish Emporium at Capri on Via Roma on Isle of Capri.”

Capri on Via Roma has become a hit with local boaties, offering easy access berthing space just off the Nerang River. Whether it is for lunch after a morning of fishing or for taking the family for a day out, the waterfront dining and shopping district offers a truly Gold Coast experience. “After that amazing lunch, followed by a walk around all the shops at Via Roma and walking through the local school (Surfers Paradise State School), we realised that we had fallen in love with the area - far surpassing our expectations.”

In an era of online news subscriptions and e-magazine formats, it is easy to assume traditional print magazines are an almost extinct breed. However, publications that adapt to an ‘online’ modern world are proven to survive and impact a wider audience. Boat Gold Coast gives an insider view to the boating lifestyle of the Coast to a local and wider audience, showing readers exactly what the southeast coast has to offer.

Deciding to flick through our magazine ended up changing Adam’s life in unforeseeable ways. It just goes to show that one moment can lead to a monumental amount of trickling effects, despite how small and insignificant it may seem at the time. One day you may pick up a magazine, and the next, your life has changed.

Following the memory of the advertising feature he had seen many months before, Adam was introduced to the beautiful haven of Isle of Capri that he would soon get to call home.

After having a taste of what life on the Gold Coast could be for him and his wife, Adam was determined to make the monumental shift from down south: “I just had to work out how to make it happen while running my sign and printing business, Brave Design, after 25 years operating in Sydney.”

Faced with balancing his business and following his dream to live up on the Coast, Adam realised the perfect solution. “That’s when it occurred to me that

Lani and Adam celebrating their first week living on the Gold Coast with a night out at Vapiano’s (Surfers Paradise)

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FUEL @ RUNAWAY BAY

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BOAT ANGLER

Paul Burt A top fish for summer W

ith shimmering gold skin, and a body that conjures up an exotic extinct species, the dolphin fish would have to be one of the prettiest fish in the ocean. It also tastes fantastic on the palate.

Dolphin fish are a prolifically fast grower, moving with the warm currents up and down the coastline with other pelagic species during the warmer seasons of the year. Generally found in the tropical and subtropical waters around the globe, this species would have to be one of the most sought-after sportfish by most bluewater anglers.

Wherever you travel, the fish all look the same, but their name changes in different countries. In Hawaii, they are called mahi-mahi; in Mexico, they are known as dorado; and to us down here in Australia, we call them dollies or dolphin fish.

We use light gear when chasing dolphin fish, usually consisting of a reel with quality drag washers and

one that holds a generous amount of line. Shimano reels have this quality and are well known to hold up against big fish, especially when you are using a light line class. The rods have to be light yet sturdy, one that has a flexible tip and a base that can withstand the levering pressure a dolly can put on when taking that first blistering run.

Floating debris is a key factor when it comes to attracting dolphin fish. On the islands, locals use a raft of bamboo and vines, and set it afloat in the current to attract this curious yet adventurous species.

Surprisingly, it does not take too long before one, then two - and before you know it, a hundred dolphin fish or more are schooling up under the bamboo raft waiting for the small baitfish to move under for cover.

In some remote waters, anglers actually use sheets of timber with floats tied to the sides to keep it up on the surface. In Australia, certain states actually allow

FADs (fish aggregating devices) to be placed along the reefs. Some state fisheries departments actually build them and set them out for anglers to fish around. Unfortunately, in Queensland, we are behind the times and that has not eventuated. The ones you do find out at sea are illegally put there by anglers wanting to get among the action. And if you do come across a float tied to a piece of rope in the middle of nowhere full of dolphin fish, do yourself a favour and remember the saying, ‘Loose lips sink ships’.

In the sense of lure choices, we prefer small resin head lures or live baits. It is pretty unusual to see a dolphin fish pass up a piece of pilchard floated out in a burly trail.

As we come into the warmer months of the year, we will start to see more and more dolphin fish being caught by everyday anglers. Most of the fish taken from our shallow waters off the coastline range from three to eight kilos. But as you head

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BOAT ANGLER

The Dolphin Fish

further out to sea, their sizes increase dramatically to monstrous lengths and weights. Big males or bull dolphin fish have mammoth heads that look very much prehistoric. Once hooked up, the fish can easily strip you of all your line in a matter of minutes. A heavier line class is required to tackle these fish, especially when we are talking about a fish in the category of 30 kilos or more.

Skirted Lures, typical tackle used when trolling for dolphin fish.

A group fishing with Sea Probe Deep Sea Fishing Charters, caught around Floating Tree 20 nautical miles off the coast.

Once close to the boat, the colours of dolphin fish are simply mesmerising. Iridescent blues, greens and yellows light up the water. If you have another rod handy with either a bait or a lure attached to it, you can have yourself a bit of fun with his mates that generally follow them back to the boat.

You need to have some knowledge of where they are congregating before heading out. Ask the team members at your local Anaconda store if there are any dollies being caught. If not, usually they are among other species such as marlin, mackerel and tuna, so you may get a mixed bag when out trolling.

Dolphin fish are a schooling predatory species and they will fight all the way to the end. They will muscle over each other to get to the bait first. But if you lose one, it is a sure sign that the rest of the school will go off the bite for a while.

A top fish and some top fun for anglers this summer! Good luck!

A big dolphin fish approximately 16kg

Baiting the fish is as hard as the fight and this is where it becomes dangerous. With a stream-like body and a powerful head and tail shake, the dolphin fish can easily embed a hook - or three straight into your leg or hand when trying to restrain it from flipping about. Generally, a quick knock to the head with a batten or nulla-nulla will quiet them down, but they must be bled immediately and placed straight on ice.

In our neck of the woods, anglers fish the waters around the Kirra Bay region and further out along the 36 and 50 fathom line. where the cobalt waters flow down from the north.

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23

BOAT REVIEW

MERCURY VERADO OUTBOARDS applications

for high-speed

ercury Marine is introducing an all-new M 400hp Verado outboard, the most powerful Verado on the water.

Since the launch of Mercury’s 350hp Verado and Mercury Racing’s 400R four years ago, boat owners have been asking for a higher horsepower Verado engine. Now, those requests have been answered.

“The acceptance of the 350hp Verado has been incredible, and through extensive conversations with our customers around the world, we have learned that there is an appetite in the marketplace for a Verado-branded 400hp fourstroke outboard engine,” said John Pfeifer, Mercury Marine president.

“As boats continue to increase in size, so has the need for more power. This gives us an opportunity to provide an even higher horsepower Verado, providing the durability and reliability that the Verado brand is known for around the world.”

The new 400hp engine - built on Mercury’s proven L6SC Verado platform - is suitable for a wide range of applications including bluewater fishing boats, larger sport boats, centre consoles, and pontoons.

Boat lovers will appreciate the new engine’s added power, while enjoying the smooth and quiet operation for which Verado outboards are widely known. Weighing just 303 kilograms, the same as the 350hp Verado, the newest Verado is the lightest outboard in the 400+ HP category by more than 130 kgs.

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The 400hp Verado will exclusively use the 5.44” 1.75 HD (heavy duty) gearcase, and is compatible with Mercury Joystick Piloting for Outboards. It will be available in the same model variations as the 350hp Verado with colour options of Phantom Black and Cold Fusion.

Mercury’s belief in the all-new 400hp Verado is clearly reflected in its 3+3=6 year outboard warranty, providing engine owners with an additional three years of factory-backed protection against failures caused by defects in material or production.

“The introduction of the 400hp Verado is another step in the evolution of the proven L6SC platform that has been successful in the market and we expect to be successful for years to come,” said Mr Pfeifer. “Through extensive consumer research, we have determined that there is a market for both variations of the 400, giving consumers the opportunity to have two extremely reliable outboards to choose from based on their preference.”

The Mercury Verado, for high-speed applications, is available at Nitro Marine.

Available at NITRO MARINE Mercury Marine Certified Service Centre.

Phone: 07 5532 5812, sales@nitromarine.com.au.

Address: 167 Currumburra Road, Ashmore

JAN - MARCH 2020

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25

BOAT REVIEW BOAT GOLD COAST

Classy convertible new Parker

850 VOYAGER

F

rom Polish builder, Parker Boats, comes the versatile, convertible 8.5-metre (28-foot) Parker 850 Voyager – plenty of boat for your buck.

It’s a very versatile package, whether you’re keen to ski, fish, relax, party, or head out on the water for a weekend or longer.

This compact cruiser features an array of convertible spaces for entertaining, water sports and weekends away. It boasts full beam living and entertaining space, with a focus on maximising all the usable deck area.

The Parker 850 Voyager is the perfect daycruiser for up to 10 guests, or a great weekender for six. The cockpit is spacious and has flexible seating arrangements with seats that swivel, depending on your preference, and sunpads on the bow for your choice of spaces to recline and take in the views.

Inside, there’s a proper galley including stovetop and pantry which is ideal for longer trips, and a V-berth and full beam berth behind the stairs for accommodation for up to six guests, as well as separate bathroom with toilet and shower, loads of storage and natural light from windows and hatches.

While the 850 Voyager is built for relaxation, the stepped hull is matched with a 400HP V8 engine, capable of pushing it to more than 50 knots with a satisfying throaty sound. This neat sport boat benefits from a bow thruster, which makes it run flat and smooth, even on the plane, and provides good vision from every vantage point.

The 850 Voyager offers all the advantages of outboard engines over sterndrives, given the low service and maintenance costs, excellent fuel economy, environmental benefits, comfort and operational reliability.

Represented locally by Nautilus Australia, Parker boats have been

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manufactured in Poland since the 1970s and are renowned for their constant innovation, superb build quality and outstanding sea keeping abilities. The team at Nautilus Australia are life-long boaties with an eye for quality and value for money.

“We chose the Polish-made Parker brand of fibreglass boats from 6 to 11 metres for their reputation, offshore rating in many models, and the array of features each model offers at a very competitive price,” said Dmitriy Dubs, coDirector of Nautilus Australia.

“That means more people can get on the water and enjoy the peace and health benefits boating brings to families, all year round in Australia.”

Made using Twin Step Infusion technology (TSI), the Parker hull differentiates Parker boats from the competition. This innovative technology involves vacuum infusion during moulding, vinyl ester, sandwich cores and multiaxial reinforcement to save weight, increase stiffness and improve comfort.

The hull features two steps to reduce friction, planing threshold and consumption, and also to enhance acceleration and increase top speeds by as much as 15 percent. In Europe, the Parker range is the choice of Water Police and Marine Biologists undertaking research expeditions.

“They are known as ‘big small boats’ because of their spacious cockpits, clever convertible seating and myriad features that make them the perfect boat for a day, or a weekend on the water,” said Dmitriy.

The Parker 850 Voyager starts at $200,000 with a host of inclusions, and huge list of options for owners to customise their vessel. nautilusaustralia.com.au sales@nautilusaustralia.com.au Ph: 0414 252 254

JAN - MARCH 2020

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27

BOAT REVIEW

Elevate Your Cruising ENDURANCE 720-24 T

he gorgeous Endurance 720-24 have three staterooms and three ensuite heads, crews quarters, and a skylounge that feels both refreshingly oversized, like a haven of privacy.

The 720 also has two day heads, one on the main deck, and the second in the skylounge area. With ample social areas and formal dining for up to eight, this is our most compelling vessel to date.

The boat’s interior is made of stunning woodwork, raised panel cabinetry, natural stone, and the finest European fabrics. Just step inside her open saloon layout to find ample room for entertaining, with custom upholstered L-shaped couch and chairs with storage beneath. The forward galley is accentuated by an unobstructed view from bow to stern, Caesarstone quartz countertop, and a top-end GE appliance suite. The dining area features a custom table with a compass star inlay and seating for eight. Adjacent is a full wet bar with cut-out shelves for your favourite glassware and bottles.

With a newly extended 20 foot beam, the master bedroom offers unrivaled comfort with a king-size walk-around bed and ample storage. Guests will not be disappointed with the generous VIP stateroom and spacious guest stateroom, each with abundant sunlight and roomy layout. Crews quarters are wellappointed with dedicated head, dining area, and lazarette.

To top it off, the command centre of the yacht is the third deck skylounge featuring a helm station with Garmin 8622 series navigational equipment, dual Pompanette helm chairs, access to the Portuguese bridge, captain’s writing desk, and sleek cherry table with upholstered dining settee and a panoramic sunroof.

Endurance 720-24 has Hampton Yachts’ trademark reliability and redundancy, making this a boat that is truly a pleasure to be aboard.

Enquire at Leigh-Smith Yachts www.lsyachts.com.au

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JAN - MARCH 2020

A rite of passage.

Alaska Motor Yachts have evolved from a vessel aimed at the entry level boater looking for value into the class leading luxurious range of motor yachts today. With nearly 100 boats being delivered into the Australian / NZ market the evolution and drive to be the best in class is ever present whilst not losing sight of the core values and philosophy of exceeding the expectations of the most discerning and intuitive motor yacht owners.

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JAN - MARCH 2020

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31

BOAT ANGLER

MURRAY COD

AT GLENLYON DAM

Southern Brisbane Sportfishing Club

Brad Baldwin with 102cm Murray cod at Glenlyon Dam

Martin Shwede with a smaller Murray cod

G

lenlyon Dam is regarded as one of the best Murray cod fisheries and contains prized Murray cod, yellow perch as well as other freshwater fishes.

This dam is suffering in the drought and although it is down to 4% capacity, it is still fishing well due to its nature as a deep dam. Even at this low level the basin is over 15 metres deep and much of the dam is 5 metres or deeper.

The Southern Brisbane Sportfishing Club (SBSFC) members went on their annual pilgrimage to the Glenlyon Dam near Stanthorpe. This is the signature event every year and will be one of the Queensland Sportfishers’ events beginning 2020. Many SBSFC members visit the dam four or more times each year for the challenge of catching an elusive metre-plus Murray cod the dam is famous for.

SBSFC President Ross says, “I must admit I was sceptical about fishing Glenlyon at a dam level of 4%. This, however, proved misconceived as it is a deep dam and was still very fishable at that level. The only real challenge was the temporary nature of the boat ramp installed and maintained by the tourist park.”

At the 4% level, the water surface itself was still up past the Limestone Caves.

This is quite a reasonable size and comparable with many dams even when full.

Much of it is over 5 metres deep. On the sounder, there are lots of structure under the water and a few trees breaking the surface.

Members with the haul during Rainbow Beach trip

About SBSFC - Founded in 1995 by a band of dedicated anglers, members of the club participate in a wide variety of fishing including lure casting and trolling, fly-fishing and bait-fishing.

Club members fish over a number of locations from Northern New South Wales for trout and Murray cod, to our northern estuaries and impoundments for barramundi and mangrove jacks. The club members regularly fish the estuaries and impoundments around Southeast Queensland. Members enjoy the company and conversation that follows a great day on the water. Importantly members regularly share their tips on tackle and techniques to improve the catch of all.

The club is involved in the fish tagging program administered by the Department of Primary Industries and is also affiliated with Queensland Sportfishers (Australian National Sportfishing Association – Queensland Branch) which promotes sensible conservation while enjoying the sport.

If SBSFC sounds like the club you are interested in joining, come along to one of the meetings and see for yourself. Check out the club website on www. sbsfc.org or join the Facebook group Southern Brisbane Sportfishing Club.

For further information, please contact Ross Williamson on 0407157870 or email secretary@sbsfc.org

One of the best things about the club are the discussions over a couple of drinks and dinner at night. In this case, around the BBQ campfire, the discussion led to using dark lures and trolling the deeper 5-metre contour with a nominal 5-metre diving crank lure. Many members had been using shallow lures and lighter colours. The catch rate for all members increased when this change was made.

fé Ca37"E d se °25'

n 53 ice49'19"S 1 L rs 7°

Club member Brad had to return to work the next day so he was out on the water early with Martin. The day before had been good for them so they decided to repeat an early morning run towards the dam wall with Brad having bagged out on cod. The object of the day was catching some yellow belly.

The planned troll line passed a fully submerged tree that was marked on the GPS after they lost a lure on it the previous day. They headed out to deeper water to avoid the tree, but a boat crossing the dam to starboard with right of way pushed them closer to the submerged tree. As they passed Brad’s 5m purple Feralcatt™ lure connected with a good fish. Brad was using 10lb line with a 20lb trace on a 2-5kg Daiwa Black Label v2 rod partnered with a Daiwa Steez SV TW™ reel and the fish was back in the tree. With such light gear the odds were in the fish’s favour, but Brad kept his cool and held the fish as the line rubbed the tree eventually extracting the cod. We saw the tail and then the fish came to the surface head-facing the boat and luckily straight into the net. Brad was ecstatic with his first metre-plus cod – a magnificent capture on light gear.

The fish was eventually released.

32

2 ple ates TipS Coordin

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For bookings (07) 5577 3025

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Tipplers Licensed Café is a family-friendly destination with live entertainment, great coffee and delicious food. Located on South Stradbroke Island, the café is the perfect place to relax for boaties, local families and visitors to the Gold Coast.

JAN - MARCH 2020

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33

BOAT REVIEW

WELL ANCHORED AUSTRALIAN MADE BOAT ANCHORS VS. IMPORTS

A

nchor Right Australia have been designing and developing new boat anchor concepts for over twenty-five years. Our Super SARCA was a world’s first true multi-purpose anchor design. We know this because of our patent research, SARCA – meaning Sand And Reef Combination Anchor – is by far the most popular fishing boat anchor throughout Australia, and possibly New Zealand, that many boat builders now fit them as standard.

The Super SARCA has been servicing many types of boats – pleasure boats, live-aboard yachts, and commercial vessels up to 300 tonnes. The larger models up to 225kg are seen regularly on many of our very large trawlers and ferries in Australia and New Zealand.

Twelve years back, we then designed the incredible SARCA Excel. Why? Simply because the roll bar on the Super SARCA was restrictive on some boats, we have made the Excel fit just about any vessel type.

Once again, due to Anchor Right’s experience of understanding anchor design and performance, the Excel fast became an anchor that has created enormous interest and rave reviews on many forums and blogs, saying it is “the best anchor” they have used.

The Water Police requested that the Excels be fitted to their new large police boat in Tasmania. Their choice was based on their research of Anchor Right’s history of performance, testing, and typeapproval certification. The feedback from the general boaties was the sealer.

34

What has become a real surprise, gem for Anchor Right, is our demountable alloy Excel model. It weighs half of the steel versions. We have seen an avalanche of interest and sales in the alloy version since we launched this model. Fast setting in multiple sea beds, exceptional holding power, easy to break down for storage, this lightweight storable anchor also makes a great option when racing a yacht, used as a ketch, or a second back up anchor.

Customers are telling us that the performance between the steel model and the alloy is no different.

We know for a fact that the Alloy Excel puts out the same holding power as our galvanized steel model, of which is type-approved as a Super High Holding Power anchor. We have carried out hundreds of hours of testing the steel, stainless steel, and alloy Excel versions.

SARCA Excel Alloy anchor in stowable position

Anchor Right Australia now share in a very large part of anchoring systems in the market. We are not the cheapest, and certainly not the dearest, but are proudly Australian-made, using Australian steel.

We lead the world in designing and producing new methods of anchor testing. Our strategy of success has been built on trust, quality and designs that work better. We now have many challengers competing in new anchor designs, and this only helps to keep us sharp by leading the way.

Our biggest achievement is to know that we have gained the trust of many thousands of customers. We at Anchor Right Australia say a big thanks to all who have chosen our anchors over the many imports. This shows real support for an Australian-made product.

SARCA Excel Alloy anchor in operational position

JAN - MARCH 2020

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BOAT ANGLER

It's A

By Stephen Booth

Prawn Thing Jarrod Day with a Live Shrimp munching black jew from Weipa. Wherever prawns are found, the Live Shrimp is an incredibly good lure to use.

of the Zerek live shrimp created a stir T heunlikearrival the arrival of many other lures in Australia.

This lure catapulted to the top of the charts and, after more than five years on the market, still maintains its place at the top of the heap.

But what is it about the Live Shrimp that makes it such a user-friendly lure? And where has the development of this phenomenon gone?

BACK TO THE START The Live Shrimp is a prawn-shaped soft plastic lure that is constructed from the virtually indestructible TPE (thermoplastic). It has a host of features that make it an exceptional piece of lure engineering and allow it to be rigged in multiple fashions. Three sizes (2", 3.5" and 5") also means there is a Live Shrimp that is suitable for every species in Australia.

Let us look at the features first. The Live Shrimp

36

has unique rigging slots in the body to shield the weedless worm hook. This makes the lure virtually snag-proof while maintaining exceptional fish hooking abilities. The tail is segmented to provide a very realistic tail action. These segments are held together by Kevlar matting to give the tail exceptional durability. The legs are stiff, but this stiffness relates to their action in the water as they quiver realistically, rather than fold up and over the body like they do in softer materials. The Live Shrimp also comes with an in-built rattle chamber to add extra sonics to the lure. This rattle can be removed when rigging the Live Shrimp on a jig head, or if you feel the extra sonics are not required. And lastly fluorescent eyes add extra visual appeal to an already amazing lure.

Yep, there is a lot to the Live Shrimp. Add in over a dozen super realistic colours, and the fact the Live Shrimp won Best Soft Lure at the AFTA Trade Show on its release, it is easy to see the credentials this lure has.

IN THE FIELD The Live Shrimp is at its best in the field – when anglers are throwing it at fish.

The most basic of retrieves for this lure is the dropand-hop technique. This technique is simple to master, with the angler simply casting the lure out to the target and letting the lure drop through the water column or structure, and then being hopped a couple of times before being allowed to drop again.

You can hop the lure subtly or harshly, and you can hop the lure with large hops or small hops. It is totally up to the angler and the situation they find themselves fishing. This retrieve makes the lure look to all the world like a real shrimp or prawn and is extremely effective in thick cover, be that snags, rocks, reef or weed.

A different retrieve is the slow roll. This is also a

JAN - MARCH 2020

Scott Fleming with an estuary-based snapper that found the subtle retrieve of the Live Shrimp Hot Legs too much to resist.

The Live Cherabin provides a larger profile and is a sensational lure to use up north where big black jew like this are found.

The Live Shrimp Hot Legs is an ideal lure for chasing flathead in the estuaries with the hop and drop retrieve.

Golden snapper, fingermark or simply choppers. It doesn't matter what you call them they love smashing the Live Cherabin.

very simple retrieve with the lure simply being slowly wound back to the angler after the cast.

The mechanics involve the angler casting the lure out, allowing it to sink to the desired depth, and then slow rolling the lure back. You can mix up this retrieve with little shakes of the rod or rod tip pulses to give the lure a little more action, but this is not always necessary. This retrieve really takes advantage of the stiffer legs of the Live Shrimp, as they look very lifelike on this retrieve, vibrating and wriggling. These leg movements look very much like the legs of a real shrimp as it swims through the water.

EXTRA LIVE LOVE With the success of the Live Shrimp, several other models in the Live range were designed and released. The first of these was the Live Cherabin, a similar lure that was designed to look a lot more like the larger freshwater shrimps found in the freshwater rivers and lagoons up north.

The Cherabin comes in two sizes (4" and 6") and can also be rigged with the supplied weedless worm

BOATGOLDCOAST.COM. AU

hook or a jighead. However, the tow point is in a different location, coming out of the top of the head of the plastic rather than the nose of the plastic.

is a slender body when compared to the original Live Shrimp. This gives the lure a real finesse feel that is difficult for others to copy.

The Cherabin is a more slender profile (but with a robust head) with long forward feelers. There are also different colours available, yet many of the same strengths of the Live Shrimp are retained, such as the Kevlar webbing in the tail, the internal rattle chamber and the TPE used in its construction.

The Live Shrimp Hot Legs also comes in two sizes (3" and 4") and with two hook styles – the omnipresent weedless worm hook for serious structure, and the stand-up jighead for more open areas such as mud flats, sandy stretches and freshwater lakes, where you want the lure to sit with its tail up wafting around.

The most recent addition to the Live range is the Live Shrimp Hot Legs. This lure is almost a hybrid between the original Live Shrimp and the Cherabin with features of both being seen in this version.

The big difference with the Live Shrimp Hot Legs is the body plastic. While still being TPE, it is a softer compound allowing for extra movement in the long feelers and the legs. It is the extra movement in the legs that is important here because the Live Shrimp Hot Legs features highlight tips on all the legs in all the colours. Many of these highlights are UVenhanced, but not all are UV. The non-UV leg tips are bold and black creating a real contrast to the rest of the legs and the bodies. The final difference

SUMMARY The Live Range from Zerek is a revolution in soft plastic fishing. From the smallest 2" Live Shrimp right up to the 6" Live Cherabin, there is a size, colour and profile that will perfectly match your local crustaceans.

This range is definitely not just a saltwater range with all of the big name freshwater species also dining on these ultra-realistic shrimp representations.

From barramundi, mangrove jacks and threadfins up north, to trout, bream and red fin perch down south, the Live Range from Zerek is a range that simply produces fish again and again.

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BOAT GUIDE JOURNEY ANGLER

GOLD COAST GAME FISHING CLUB

g in w o r G d n A s r a e Y 0 5

By Shari Newton

Photos by members of the Gold Coast Game Fishing Club

The Gold Coast Game Fishing Club is the largest club of the Queensland Game Fishing Association, and has stood the test of time throughout the highs and lows of the Gold Coast and global economy.

The club is celebrating its 50th anniversary in 2020, which is an exciting milestone for any club. To have some of the members from the early days still actively involved in the club is an absolute privilege.

With a consistent membership of over 350 and a fleet of over 100 boats, the club boasts great support, both on a social basis and through the significant fishing activities.

The Gold Coast is blessed with a pelagic fishery that is arguably world class, with both heavy and light tackle species following a seasonal trend based on the Eastern Australian Current. Access to the ocean through the Gold Coast Seaway offers a generally safe bar crossing, which is an easy run from most of the local marinas and high-quality boat ramps. Many of the Cairns Charter fleet see the Gold Coast as a great place to have a break as they traverse their way up and down the east coast. The boat ramps at the Sundale Bridge and Broadwater Parklands provide excellent access to large trailer boats with floating pontoons and multiple lanes.

38

This year we have had one of the best years in many with the run of juvenile black marlin providing exceptional fishing at times for many of our members. The beauty of this fishery is that it is accessible to smaller trailer boats when conditions suit, which opens the experience to many families who are able to share the sport across multiple generations.

Our club heavily promotes the involvement of our juniors, as they are the future of the sport. This active participation and interest in the club is a boost not only for our club, but also for the sport of game fishing in the years to come.

Additionally, our club promotes the active conservation of game fish through an extensive tag-and-release program. The results of the efforts of our members provide highly valuable factual data to scientists that are actively involved in researching the habits and migration patterns of all pelagic species. Australia leads the way in this research effort and supports the global conservation of many pelagic species.

The seasonal nature of the black marlin fishery provides excellent enjoyment during the Summer months. However, the ultimate test of game fishing exists just a few extra miles east off the edge of the continental shelf. The blue marlin fishery off the Gold Coast provides the challenge to every angler and skipper on a consistent basis all year round, with many highly experienced skippers and anglers suggesting the grounds off the Gold Coast as being the “best blue marlin fishery in the world”.

It is no surprise that many of the most successful charter boats and their crew regularly call the Gold Coast home when the Cairns season is finished, with the Gold Coast Game Fishing Club being home to many of the most experienced skippers and crewmen in the sport.

While catching game fish is our ultimate joy as members of a game fishing club, the most prized yet underestimated value as members of a club is the ability to share and gain knowledge of many of the more experienced members. The consistent growth that the Gold Coast Game Fishing Club has experienced over the years has been founded upon the ability to create a place where our members can get together, share stories, enjoy each other’s company and find a general sense of community within the club.

An integral part of this story revolves around having a venue that we can call our own, and the Gold Coast Game Fishing Club story heavily revolves around our home, Gamebase. We hold regular monthly meetings and have social drinks on a Friday evening from our newly renovated licensed bar.

Our tournaments provide a great opportunity to visiting fishers to share in the great fishing and sense of camaraderie that the club provides.

Our two major tournaments are run out of the Southport Yacht Club marina at Main Beach, which provides an excellent location to berth and share all the stories, and has all the facilities under one roof with good food and cold beer.

JAN - MARCH 2020

BOAT ANGLER The highlight each year is the running of our three tournaments, which sees anglers from across the country converge on the Gold Coast. ● October sees the real start of our season with

a one-day shootout event based at our Club facilities at Runaway Bay. The shootout format generally attracts 30 boats and 120 anglers with the most consistent species being blue and striped marlin with often a good mix of by catch if the currents are consistent.

● January is the prime black marlin time and our Light Tackle Masters is perfectly timed to take advantage of the conditions. It is well supported as it is scheduled during the school holidays, appealing to many families on the Gold Coast.

The tournament attracts a mix of trailer boats and larger game boats with up to 45 boats and over 250 anglers participating. The tournament is held over two days and often sees the smaller boats do very well, as the fishing grounds are a relatively short run from the Gold Coast Seaway. ● Our Heavy Tackle Tournament is held in late April or early May, typically our premium blue marlin season. The tournament is fished off the continental shelf of the Gold Coast and attracts boats from up and down the east coast, with anglers willing to test their skills against the toughest fish in the ocean. Ironically, this tournament has been won by several trailer boats over the past few years, as the market for high quality pocket game boats is well and truly alive within our competitors.

For more information, visit www.gcgfc.com.au or follow them on Facebook www.facebook.com/goldcoastgamefishingclub

All boat sizes welcome big and small. www.gcgfc.com.au

Award winning boat builders, race team technicians and an undercover marina, now available for all makes and models, 15 foot to 70 ton. Our service department offers free quotes and inspections on all factory services, including: UPHOLSTERY

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BOAT GUIDE

WASHDOWN

BOAT AND PWC TRAILER TIPS

By Phil Peterson, Oceanic Trailers

WASHING YOUR BOAT OR PWC TRAILER

ALLOY TRAILERS

Look around the car park at your local boat ramp, and you'll see boat and PWC trailers in varying states of decay. Some are obviously older trailers, but they are in quite good nick all over, while a couple of the 'newer' trailers appear to be falling apart. What's going on, you wonder?

Trailers made of aluminium are becoming more common, and it is a great material to use due to its light weight and corrosion-resistance. However, even an alloy trailer is prone to premature wear if left with water and salt residue build-up on the surface. And as most alloy trailers still have a large amount of galvanised parts, it is recommended to follow the same wash-down procedure as a galvanised trailer.

CARING FOR TRAILER'S GALVANISED COATING While galvanising a trailer's main frame and major parts provides a strong barrier between the metal and the elements, it does deteriorate over time and loses its ability to protect the trailer. Leaving the residue from a dunking at the ramp on the trailer's surfaces speeds up this deterioration, particularly when used in saltwater environments.

To minimise the deterioration of the trailer's galvanising, give the whole trailer a hose-down, followed by a wash with a good cleaning agent, preferably one with salt-removing properties if you have had the trailer in salt water. An old small house broom is a great tool for getting into the trailer's nooks and corners. Pay particular attention to thoroughly soaking and washing the trailer brake system's mechanical parts, if fitted, along with the axle, hubs, rims and moving suspension parts. After the trailer dries, a spray with a good corrosion inhibitor (such as inox) on the trailer's moving parts and joints is highly recommended.

KEEPING DRAIN HOLES CLEAR Many trailers have drainage holes along the length of the frame rails to ensure water escapes and does not sit inside the metal. It is important to ensure these drainage holes remain clear, as they can easily become blocked with leaves, weeds and other material picked up around the boat ramp. Regularly checking and clearing these holes is a great way to make sure water is not sitting in your trailer's frame rails and causing deterioration of the metal.

To give the inside of your trailer's frame rails a good wash, block the ends of the trailer's frame rails with old rags, and fill the rail a good saltremoving cleaning agent/water mixture. Let this sit for a few minutes before removing the rags and running clean water through. Once dry a final squirt of a good rust inhibitor, such as inox, into the trailer's frame rails from any access points will help keep the inside of the frame rails clean and moisture free.

LUBRICATION The moving parts of a trailer are most often fitted with grease nipples or lubrication points for adding fresh grease. Use a good quality marinegrade grease every few trips to push fresh grease through, and wipe away any excess old grease that is pushed out.

One of the most important lubrication points on a trailer is the wheel bearings. A regular check and top-up of the grease ensures the bearings keep cool and do their job, reducing the risk of a bearing failure, which can lead to catastrophic results. Many trailers have bearing protection systems, which give added protection from water and the elements, plus a simplified way of adding grease to the bearing.

Photo by www.oceanictrailers.com.au

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Give any sliding items, such as suspension parts and jockey wheels, a spray of a lubricating corrosion inhibitor, or a light smear of grease

Photo by kaercher.com

occasionally. Your coupling should also come in for a quick bit of attention, with a good soak with your cleaning solution followed by a spray with a lubricating corrosion inhibitor on the moving parts, and the grease nipple will need a squeeze of clean grease from time to time as well.

LIGHTS AND ELECTRICAL The lights and electrical items on a boat or PWC trailer these days are fairly rugged, usually featuring sealed LED lights and sealed wiring running uninterrupted to the plug at the front of the trailer.

It is still a good idea to wash the lights off well, and spray the back of them with a good moisture and corrosion inhibitor now and then. Giving the plug at the other end a quick wipe and spray is also recommended to keep the electrical connectors in good condition.

REGULAR CLEAN = LONG TRAILER LIFE Giving your boat or PWC trailer a clean at the same time as your vessel after use is a good habit to get into. You will be rewarded for the small extra effort with a trailer that will safely carry your watercraft for many more years than a trailer left to the elements.

And it will most likely save your hip pocket as well, you won't be replacing rusted or corroded components just to keep your trailer working.

It is import to service your trailer every 12 months.

Oceanic Marine offers service and repairs. When the time comes to replace your trailer, they have a full range of locally built Australian manufactured trailers. www.oceanictrailers.com.au JAN - MARCH 2020

Photo by John Groom

In most cases, a sad looking trailer is not the result of old age but one of poor cleaning and maintenance after use. Dropping any large metal object in water (particularly the salty kind) means it is going to require a good clean often, to ensure the harmful residues left behind by water are kept to a minimum.

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TOTAL YACHT SERVICES

THE BOAT WORKS

HERE WE GROW AGAIN!

N

ot content to bask on their laurels as Australia’s greatest boat yard, The Boat Works has welcomed new partners to the fold over the past few months, adding to the offering for visiting boaties and locals.

There are now over 60 partner businesses on-site at this world-class facility, providing the largest concentration of marine trades in Australia, and spanning every facet of marine professionals - from boating supplies and chandlery offering trade prices, to high-calibre project management.

The most recent addition to The Boat Works is Paradigm Training, an 11-strong team providing training, licensing and certification for all levels of boat and PWC in both accredited and non-accredited courses designed for marine professionals and the recreational sector.

The array of services is phenomenal - from experts in gel coat repair, antifoul application, sandblasting and resprays, to a multi-skilled team who offer full-service packages from valet pick up, repair, maintenance and refit, along with everything in between - giving our customers an unrivalled choice.

Customer testimonials are easy to come by and word-ofmouth referral from long-term customers lead to a steady stream of new boats to The Boat Works. John and Debra Caulfield, owners of a 575 Hanse with 2.85-metre draft, travel from Brisbane for haul-out with the 100-tonne travel lift. “We enjoy the quick and easy turnaround and the professionalism.

The ease of arriving bow first into the lift that features an extended forebeam means no hassle of removing the rig.

Access is easy and we don’t worry about tides now that the latest round of dredging has been done.”

Engineering and fabrication specialists, mechanical and hydraulics, trimming and upholstery, detailing and signage along with insurance experts, surveyors, electrical and electronics – the complete A to Z of marine services all in one place.

Onsite rigging and yacht project management team, Everything Marine Australia, undertook a comprehensive amount of works on SY Amel 55. The owners expressed their appreciation for how the team demonstrated great skill and dedication to getting

Custom Trailers

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MARINE

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Oceanic Marine Australian Built Frames 1-16 Waterway Drive Coomera 4209 PH: 07 5561 8616 orders@oceanicqld.com

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JAN -- MARCH MARCH 2020 JAN 2020

We've added skills, services, and amenities her back to new. The quality of their workmanship is excellent, with attention to detail evident in each of the repairs. It is of great comfort in stressful times to have experience by one’s side.

Mr Anderson owns a 38 Mariner, which undertook refit work recently. “Staff assisted me with a remote delivery, which made things very easy for me. From the time my vessel arrived at the yard, everyone involved, from the office to the staff at Ocean Degree, and Jessie from All Seas Marine, was exceedingly helpful in accommodating our timelines and needs, and offering the right advice when required.”

Yachtie, Aase Jakobsson is a fan of the facilities and support for the cruising community. “When maintenance or upgrades to achieve our cruising dreams need to be endured, certainly the services and the facilities for the live-aboard cruisers goes a long way towards easing what usually is a difficult and challenging experience,” he said. “The staff and trades are friendly and very competent, the facilities are clean and fresh. There is a very nice barbeque area, an air-conditioned lounge, multiple free laundry facilities, and shower facilities. The value for money cannot be understated. That’s why we keep coming back!”

On-site boat dealer Multihull Solutions used Choice Stainless for a client’s vessel, a Perry 43 sailing catamaran. “The service we received was outstanding. The team went over and beyond our expectations. It was stress-free and enjoyable.”

Seatech Marine was praised for their great service, good communication and comprehensive information. “The team at Seatech is always helpful, polite and prompt with sourcing parts. I only ever have to wait two days at most and communication is great.”

Shane Subichin, general manager at The Boat Works said, “The Gold Coast is the ideal pit-stop for captains and owners to ‘stay and play’, while their boats are serviced or carrying out refit works. The Boat Works offers every solution to boat owners of all types of vessels. We are dedicated and have experienced partners who go out of their way to help our customers to take their boating experience to the next level.

Throughout our team and our onsite partners we share our customers’ passion for boating.”

www.theboatworks.com.au

Licensed Electrial Contractor Licence No 77023

AC/DC Electrical Service, Installation & Repair Australian Electrical Standard Rectification ● Corrosion Testing & Control ● Shore Power Conversion (110/230/415VAC 50/60Hz) ● Battery Chargers ● Lithium Batteries ● Battery Testing & Evaluation ● Solar ● ●

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BOAT REVIEW

WARNING!!! DO NOT TRY THIS AT HOME! (Not warranted by Axopar Boats!!!)

FASTEST AXOPAR EVER!!!

0 -63 KNOTS IN 5 SECONDS

By Marnie Ebeling

I

t is no secret Axopar’s award-winning range is taking over the day-boating game as the fastest growing European boat brand on the market. Now with 100 sold in Australia in just three years, this is definitely a brand you want to be familiar with.

Mark Richards, aka Ricko, is known for wanting to go fast -- really fast! Having spent the last 22 years skippering Bob Oatley’s yachts, tweaking the 100ft Richel Pugh-designed maxi yacht Wild Oats, and leading it to many tremendous wins in the Sydney to Hobart Race for a recordbreaking 9 times, Ricko couldn’t help himself and has now supercharged his Axopar 24 T-Top. We can’t talk about the horsepower on Mark’s Axopar, but using his expert boat-building skills, in conjunction with the fantastic build and high safety of Axopar boats, Mark has managed to get an outstanding 63 knots top speed.

With four aboard for a joyride through Pittwater in Sydney, we hit 60 knots and lost the drone within 5 seconds of what felt like a Boeing 747 take off… the eYacht crew, Peter, Joe and Marnie, could not stop smiling.

The upgrades may have started with the engine, but eYachts Managing Director, Peter Hrones, continued checking the boat and noticing more small modifications with the T-Top including bracing underneath the canopy battens and extra spectra rope strapped down to the deck. The boat was so smooth in a 5 to 10 knot wind, and at 40knots cruising, we could still talk normally around the cockpit with just a beautiful smooth engine sound in the background. And at 60 knots approx 112kph, we had no rattles whatsoever.

Mark is the founder of Palm Beach motor yachts, Australia’s dream boat, and now CEO of Grand Banks. He has been a great advocate for Axopar and has a real passion for the brand.

Mark genuinely loves talking about his Axopar which he has owned for 2-plus years now and has no interest in changing in the near future.

So what does this multi-award winning skipper use his ridiculously speedy Axopar for? Well, if he can get to his destination by water, he will.

With a waterfront property in Newport in New

South Wales, it’s only an 8-minute zip around the corner to the famous Hawkesbury River and into Americas Bay. Or when he needs to get to training, he will zoom out the heads and offshore getting into Sydney Harbour at a stunning time of approximately 30 minutes, avoiding the horrendous traffic and taking a far more fun and scenic route. And when he has a party to attend at a waterfront property, Mark won’t hesitate to take the Axopar over a car with the added bonus of being able to sleep aboard rather than having to find a way home. He has now slept on board around five times, probably the most any Axopar 24 owner ever has.

Caution: Please note that Axopar do not recommend its owners making modifications to the CE certified certificated Axopars and the maximum recommended HP tested under CE certification. Mark being a very qualified boat builder and designer understands that his modifications have now voided any warranty by the factory. Mark has done his own investigations and calculations before supercharging his Axopar.

Ricko at the helm

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JAN JULY - MARCH - SEPT 2020 2018

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BOAT GOLD COAST

SUPER NEW ERA

Celebrating 40 + years: From cane fields to world-class boat yard Photo of Boat Works site circa 1990 Historic insight into the original boat yard site of The Boat Works established in 1980 by Bruce Harris

he region’s original boat yard, established by T Bruce “Sharkie” Harris in 1980, The Boat Works has evolved over the past four decades from humble

Once back home, feeling refreshed and inspired, Bruce decided to branch out. He bought land at Coomera – then called “the bush” – for his next venture: a fleet of houseboats under the banner of Gold Coast Holidays Afloat.

High-tech, humming like a well-oiled machine, comprised of marine professionals and passionate boaties, The Boat Works has acquired a well-earned reputation as the country’s leading marina and service facility.

“In 1980, I bought 10 acres of what was basically cow paddocks,” said Bruce, referring to the current site of The Boat Works. “They used to pump it out because it flooded. I built 20 sheds and it grew from there. We were slipping boats in unbelievable numbers! That reach of the Coomera River was shallow, and we had to wait for high tides to launch boats, or push them over the sand. At that time, there was a punt to Southport.

yet pioneering beginnings, and is now entering its next phase as a world-class superyacht yard.

This exciting new era is the next layer upon a heritage that started with one man’s vision. The original structures may have vanished, but the pioneering spirit remains.

The Boat Works of today recognises and pays tribute to a trio of illustrious forebears, all of them related by blood and united by ambition, for their contribution to its evolution.

HISTORY OF THE ORIGINAL BOATYARD The son of a prawn fisher in Nelsons Bay, Bruce “Sharkie” Harris was one of two sets of twins and another sibling, all of whom grew up bare-footed and fearless around boats. “It was simpler times then: egg fights and fishing, building boats, enjoying the outdoors,” Bruce said. “Happy times.”

Fast forward to 1961, and by then, Bruce was married to Daphne with kids of their own, living in Singleton, NSW, when the opportunity arose to tender for a shark meshing program in south-east Queensland.

“My dad was my best mate. We applied with a joint tender, won it, and dad took the Sunshine Coast, and I took the Gold Coast.” From 1962, Bruce ran a trawler off Southport Park, catching 500 sharks per year. “Then my father in law, Fred retired and wanted a boat. So, I set about building him a boat. It was two hulls with a square box on top. We went to sea with an outboard motor on it, and I had never felt anything so stable. I decided then and there to ditch the trawler and focus on multihulls.”

In the 70s, Bruce built the moulds for 17ft, 20ft and 23ft catamarans beneath his house. He then expanded to the premises on Brisbane Road at Labrador. His high-quality catamarans soon attracted the attention of the Queensland government. Multiple private owners sought the seaworthy properties of a Shark Catamaran.

In 1977 - at the height of Swedish pop phenomenon, ABBA’s fame in Australia - Bruce gave in to his wife and daughters’ pleas to visit Europe, Sweden in particular.

They embarked on a grand tour. The trip was a tonic.

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“I built the lifts and the equipment myself, catering to 60ft cruisers in those days. It was modern at the time, and it did the job. We had a house and lived there for 15 years. There were 40 people living on the property.

We prided ourselves on friendly, efficient service with a good attitude.”

Then, in 2000, Wes Moxey, Bruce’s nephew and now CEO of Riviera Motor Yachts, and Wes’ business partner, Rodney Longhurst, now owner of Riviera Motor Yachts, made Bruce an offer he couldn’t refuse. Bruce retired, and Wes and Rodney took over the vibrant and viable marine precinct they named the Gold Coast Marine Centre.

Wes recalls, “We bought the neighbouring block from the Uniting Church, and amalgamated the two blocks and diverted the creek that ran through the properties down our boundary. Rodney, and my wife and I developed a master plan for the site, which included revetment wall; expanded marina; a uniquely modified front-end loader tractor with a trailer extension - like something out of ‘Mad Max’ - that was used to haul out large catamarans and vessels to the yard; and Stage 1 of the hardstand and covered work shed wash bay, the first three large sheds, including spray sheds and service centres.

The 70-tonne travel lift was later acquired.”

Expansion and adopting the latest techniques and equipment were the main objectives, but Wes and Rodney were also at the forefront of environmental considerations. “Having built Riviera and watched other marinas being built, I saw a real need to control, harvest and recycle water as an essential resource,” said Wes. “I think today, this is one of the huge differences at The Boat Works, compared to many other facilities. There are more than half a million litres stored or recycled from washing boats and flowing off the hardstand. This represents a huge benefit to operations and the natural environment.”

Founder, Bruce Harris, & owner, Tony Longhurst Wes and Rodney realised their lofty vision for the thriving Gold Coast Marine Centre. When the situation changed at Riviera in 2008, the duo took on the acclaimed Australian motor yacht marque, and sold the yard to Rodney’s brother, Tony Longhurst, champion race car driver and avid sailor. With his characteristic competitive spirit, Tony advanced their vision and committed to propelling The Boat Works to the upper echelons of marinas globally.

“The Boat Works has acquired a reputation as a great stopover for boats heading North/South, providing protected and safe moorings, dry storage and skilled trades. The Boat Works is clean, green and selfsufficient. It’s home to amazing staff and tenants who understand customer service. There’s a ‘can do’ energy that’s always moving, embracing change and evolving.

It’s a fantastic place to work, and boaties can be assured it’s an absolute resort for their boats,” said Wes. THE BOAT WORKS NOW “Today, the entire precinct is located in the heart of boatbuilding in Australia,” Wes continued. “It has attracted people with passion for marine. We have amazing weather and it’s the ideal place to do business.

The infrastructure within the precinct is the best in all of Australia. We are proud to have such a deep and productive relationship with the precinct over so many years and generations.”

Bruce recently visited The Boat Works and was treated to a guided tour with Tony Longhurst on the supercharged BMW golf buggy, which does the rounds several times a day with Tony’s critical eye for improvements and lending a helping hand to customers.

“It’s phenomenal!” Bruce enthused. “They’ve bulldozed my sheds and house. The sole remaining structure is the Galley Café & Bar, which used to be my office. The ‘Mad Max’ style lift is gone. They’ve made so many JAN - MARCH 2020

BOAT GOLD COAST

Mad MAx Loader Circa 2005

Circa 1980 old Boat Works site

Circa 1970 Bruce Harris' Shark Cat SUPER NEW ERA The ‘Super New Era’, the result of $100 million private investment in expansion, has doubled The Boat Works’ current footprint to 55 acres, making it the largest of its kind in the southern hemisphere.

View of The Boat Works site Circa 2000 improvements – it’s just marvellous! And it’s no longer in the bush. Coomera is a central hub now, close to the M1, the new Westfield shopping centre, rail line, and community that have sprung up over time.”

The Boat Works in its current incarnation is well and truly carrying the torch, Bruce affirmed, displaying the same integrity, ethos and attitude. “I noticed the same positive approach, quality service, friendly, smiling people.

Nothing is too much trouble. It’s all hands on deck to get the job done. The facilities make The Boat Works 5-star in every way. It’s so clean, you could eat off the floor!”

But as they saying goes, “You ain’t seen nothing yet!”

“The construction of the new superyacht refit yard has been undertaken in just under a year’s time, which is staggering by any measure,” said Tony Longhurst.

“With over 50,000 square metres of concrete, and a massive amount of steel for our super sheds, landscaped bio-gardens, and 5-star facilities for owners, captains and crew, we have truly built a oneof-a-kind, world-leading facility for service, storage and refits. There’s no doubt it will be the desirable destination for owners and skippers, and for the marine professionals undertaking the works.”

Stage 1 comprise the “Dry Marina” boat storage facility which is a safe haven for 80 vessels spanning 25 to 60 feet, showing the strong demand for vessel storage in this region.

From early 2020, Stage 2 will open, including the 300-tonne super boat hoist - the largest on the Gold Coast, superyacht refit sheds, expansive hardstand and marina berths catering to vessels up to 50 metres.

The new premises will complement the current yard that boasts over 60 trade partners and a weekly haul-out rate of 50 vessels using three specialist lifts, the 70- and 100-tonne travel lifts, and the submersible hydraulic Sealift specialising in wide-bodied multihulls.

Over a kilometre of waterfront marina opportunity will be accessible to yacht owners, tourists and locals of south-east Queensland’s fastest growing region, who will gravitate to the waterfront precinct for its magnetic blend of boats and boutique shopping, dining and entertainment.

In terms of jobs, the new facility is forecast to boost the local economy and create 2,000 additional jobs and diversified businesses.

“The Gold Coast will become the port of call for every type of boat – from leisure craft to larger vessels – as they travel the east coast between Melbourne or Sydney and the Whitsundays,” said Tony. “The benefits of this increased visitation will flow on to the south-east economy in the form of jobs and business in all sectors.”

Tony is justifiably proud of the yacht facility and destination in its own right, but his pride is centred around the livelihoods and opportunities created. “Investing in The Boat Works has always been about creating jobs for others, security for families, and ensuring there is a future for the boating industry on the Gold Coast. We are now poised to reap the rewards of a vision that started with Bruce, and will continue for generations to come.”

Tony continued, “New legislation will make it easier for foreign-flagged vessels to come to our shores and spend extended time here cruising, carrying out maintenance and refits, as well as chartering their superyachts to offset many of the costs of traveling to Australia. It is going to be huge for the Australian marine industry and the entire economy, and we are proud to be at the forefront.”

www.theboatworks.com.au

2020 World Class Refit Facility, catering to vessels 5m – 50m BOATGOLDCOAST.COM. AU

49

BOAT REVIEW

S 408

PURSUIT SPORTFISHING AND FAMILY BOATS SET TO DEBUT IN AUSTRALIA

G

old Coast will be home to the latest American premium fishing and family boat brand Pursuit launching in Australia this summer. Cobalt Boats of Australia has been appointed the national distributor partnering with the prestigious US brand.

Pursuit has been building offshore vessels for over 40 years and was part of the Tiara family until being purchased recently by Malibu and Cobalt. The line starts at 23ft and has models through to 40ft in centre console, cabin, open bow and hard top offshore hulls.

“We know how the team in Australia have grown Cobalt to be the largest export market outside of the USA so we look forward to having the same success with Pursuit,” Pursuit Boats Vice President of International Sales, George Hetzel says.

Owner of Cobalt Boats of Australia, Brett Thurley, says his team are very excited to be bringing the leader in the

saltwater outboard fishing segment to Australia. Pursuit is a boutique premium offshore brand that all fishing aficionados know well. Of course they are in the conversation with Grady White and Boston Whaler as the world’s top saltwater brands. We happen to think that Pursuit excels both other brands in hand-built quality due to their focus on engineering, fit and finish rather than mass production.

We are looking to showcase Pursuit’s family versatility with their very popular crossover DC range from 23ft to 36ft, which allows you to have open bow seating, offshore fishing hull characteristics, seating for 12 people in a huge cockpit, a marine toilet and hardtop enclosure with the capabilities to tow watersports as well.

“The Pursuit boat is a premium offshore fishing boat that has crossed over into a versatile family boat while also offering pure sportfishing models in its range,” Brett says. “Dad gets to fish, you can tow the kids for water sports, and there’s plenty of seating for mum and guests

to sit back and relax, making the Pursuit a suitable boat for the whole family.

“We cater to a clientele with a range of boating needs and high expectations so our Pursuit partnership will give clients another high-performance boating option in the fishing and offshore space,” Brett continues. “Adding the Pursuit brand rounds out the range we offer covering family bowriders, premium pontoon boats and now a high-end offshore range with a fishing bent.”

Pursuit Boats will have retail locations on the Gold Coast, Sydney and Melbourne. We have experienced fishing gurus in our team on the Gold Coast and Victoria who are eager to start demonstrating the range and welcoming new owners to the family.

For any further information on Pursuit please contact Brett Thurley on 0419 788 000 or brett@cobaltqld.com.au

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BOAT LIFTS & DOCKS

The EVO Sport is the smallest of our systems designed for the new range of smaller skis, like the Sea Doo Spark and Yamaha EX, being 1.45m wide and 3.3m long, weighs 82kg and with a floatation of 320kg.

jet ski & boat docking

FLOATING DOCKS F

loatingdocks are the Australian distributor for Wave Armor and Carolina docking systems, also providing budget modular systems.

Wave Armor, from the USA, are the leaders in small docking systems. Their goal was to fully utilise their decades of experience to develop a range of products that are not only innovative, durable and functional, but also showcase a superior-designed element. Their design element is now setting the new standard in the floating dock industry. While most floating dock systems on the market today are at best functional, the Wave Armor set the pace, being virtually unsinkable with a full adjustable roller system making docking and launching so easy, without damaging your ski or boat.

We stock the SLX series of jet ski and small tinny systems, being 100% roto moulded, tough for extreme performance and durability, the easiest drive on roll off

52

port on the market, designed with the jet ski enthusiast in mind. All Wave Armor systems include features that are above-industry standards, maintenance-free, and full UV protection.

Floatingdocks have two SLX systems instock. The SLX5 system is 1.5m wide and 3.8m long, with 12 inline rollers weighing 130kg, and a floatation of 700kg. The larger SLX6 system is by far our bestselling dock, 1.8m wide and 3.8m long, weighs 146kg with a floatation of 820kg. The extra width is designed to allow a safe and stable environment for fuelling and maintenance.

The Evolution systems are the next step in docking systems.

This series is the easiest and largest drive on roll off PWC ports on the markets, roto moulded, foam-filled, and packed with features like soft urethane, wheels that can be moved and adjusted to fit your jet ski or boat, with a soft rubber bow stop and a stainless steel chain for quick-clip tie-down.

The EVO6 is the largest system in the EVO range designed for the new monster skis and small boats, being 1.82m wide, 4.4m long, weighs 155kg, and with a floatation of 910kg.

We have a range of accessories for all systems along with mounting arms and brackets.

If you need something a little larger, we have from Carolina Docks two boat lifts, new for 2019. Carolina docks are made by Wave Armor, under licence from Carolina Docks, so the superior quality is there for all to see. Simple two-piece systems make for easy installation, and designed for ease of use and simple drive on reverse off system.

The Roll N Ride XL with front extension for boats from 3.5m up to 5.5m, being 2.3m wide, 5m long, weighs 227kg, with a floatation of 1140kg. We provide extra floatation floats, if required, and mounting arms and brackets are available for side or bow mounting.

Need something a little bigger? Then we also have the Roll N Ride XL with tail extension. This is suitable for boats from 5m up to 6.5m being 2.3m wide 6m long, weighs 270 kg, with a floatation of 1360kg. Side arm mounting brackets are available for both side and bow mounting.

We have agents on the Gold and Sunshine Coast, distributors in NSW and a Wave Armor display in Victoria.

For more information, please call Mike 0405 115 910.

JAN - MARCH 2020

BOAT REVIEW

NORTHSIDE MARINE

W

MERRY FISHER Marlin Models

hile Northside Marine has been a Jeanneau dealer for many years, we have only recently extended our range to include the Merry Fisher and Merry Fisher Marlin models. These are outboard powerboats- luxurious in style and in ride, but with the reliability of an outboard engine. With the smallest boat, the Merry Fisher 605 hosting up to 6 people at any given time (the larger boats accommodating for more); the Merry Fisher range makes for an excellent family fishing, cruising and overnight boat.

Versatility is its’ best feature! The Merry Fisher’s feature innovative layouts, with all models featuring berths that can be converted during the day. They also feature high performance hulls with a comfortable ride- all this, while maintaining a classic and stylish design.

Jeanneau is no stranger to conceiving award-winning boats, with their Merry Fisher 605 Marlin being nominated in the 2019 Best of Boat Awards. This reliable boat reached the finals in its’ category, ‘Best for Fishing’. This

is all thanks to the high performance hull, its ingenious layout for ease of use and fishing.

The Merry Fisher Marlin range is aimed more at a fishing audience- as the name implies. The Marlin models feature fisherman-friendly features, such as a walk-around deck pan and an inverted windscreen. By simplifying the Merry Fisher, the Marlin keeps its’ class while ramping up the fish-ability. Large windows on all the models allow for a near panoramic view from the helm. The Merry Fisher Marlin range of boats are certainly ones for adventure.

Due to the Merry Fisher and Marlin ranges being new and in high-demand at Northside Marine, stocks can be very limited. Our 1095 stock Merry Fishers’ has arrived.

This is an excellent opportunity for any potential buyers to come and experience these beautiful boats firsthand.

Our stock 1095 plans to have twin Yamaha 250hp outboards fitted- more power and maneuverability. The Merry Fisher 1095 can have 2/3 cabins- depending on

the configuration of the boat. It features 2x 400L fuel tanks and a 160L + 100L water capacity, making longer trips a breeze.

If you’re in the market for something slightly smaller, Northside Marine will have a stock Merry Fisher 895 arriving in January. The 895 features 2 dedicated cabins and a spacious interior, with seat backs that can be pivoted to suit your preference. It has a 100L water capacity, and 2x 300L fuel capacity- it is a weekender boat at its’ finest. The 895 will be fitted out with twin Yamaha 200hp outboards. With both a front sundeck and a rear lounge, the Merry Fisher has all you could need in a weekender.

Merry Fisher and Marlins are in high demand- due to their classic design, reliability and spacious layout. If you are interested in seeing one of Northside Marine’s stock Jeanneau boats, be sure to contact our Jeanneau Specialist, David. Email: davidc@nsmarine.com.au

N AY O L P S I D Merry Fisher 1095 Priced from $372,000 Merry Fisher 695 Série 2

Merry Fisher 795

Merry Fisher 895

From $123,500

From $133,900

From $224,000

Visit www.northsidemarine.com.au 2294 Sandgate Rd, Boondall QLD 4034

Easy In-House Finance & Insurance Options Available

15 Minutes North of Brisbane Airport

Phone: (07) 3265 8000

BOATGOLDCOAST.COM. AU

53

BOAT CLUB

Where wooden boats gather

Breakfast Creek Boat Club

By Kellie Byrnes

Named after the breakfast that occurred between John Oxley and an Aboriginal clan at the mouth of the creek in 1824, Breakfast Creek in Brisbane has an interesting history, as well as an interesting boating community.

W

hile you might be happy doing your own thing out on the water every weekend, or like spending time on your boat with family, it is also nice to have a group of other boaties to connect with and learn from. One local Brisbane boating club offering these benefits is the Breakfast Creek Boat Club (BCBC).

Only relatively new and operating for seven years now, the Club’s membership is made up of a group of people who are moored at or connected in other ways with the boat-building premises and moorings in Breakfast Creek. “Our numbers have grown very quickly,” notes Commodore Ross Jordin. “This has not been as a result of advertising, but rather from a dormant desire members have to share common stories, the ‘Brekky’ Creek history, and boating issues.”

Currently, meetings are held in an area within the Breakfast Creek boatyard lovingly referred to as “Under the Mango Tree”. Use of the space was given to the club by property owner Terry Holmes, a keen local boatie and Breakfast Creek historian. A flagpole has even been erected “Under the Mango Tree” to allow club members to hoist the Aussie flag along with the club ensign at Friday evening BBQs and general meetings.

The group hopes, though, to take possession of new premises shortly, after having received support from Councillor David McLachlan at Brisbane City Council. Jordin says, “We’re currently negotiating with Brisbane City Council to share Clubhouse facilities found opposite the boat-builders in Argyle Street at Albion/Breakfast Creek.”

Members of BCBC come from a variety of backgrounds and, while the majority are now Brisbane locals, members previously hailed from all over the country.

“The club membership is made up of the full gamut of people types and socio-economic backgrounds. Boat ownership seems to be a great leveller, with good comradery exhibited at all meetings and outings,” says Jordin.

“Our club began with an immediate membership of around 30 members and this number has been climbing steadily to now reach over 100. Our central Brisbane location is a real bonus for those who live a little further out of town.”

The majority of BCBC members own wooden boats; this was not intentional.

“This type of vessel seems to hold a special fascination to a lot of people,” says Jordin. “The old acronym B-O-A-T, “bring out another thousand”, is not lost on any of our members! Yet, we somehow generally manage to overlook this quite obvious liability.”

There is something special about wooden boats, Jordin feels. “Wooden boats are said to be just a loan; yours for the time being, but they’ll live on far beyond your tenure, to their next custodian. Wooden boats are what make up much of the history of “The Creek”, both commercial fishing and private vessels,” says Jordin.

The BCBC members meet approximately every six weeks in the early evening, usually on a Friday. Meetings begin with a club-financed BBQ and paired with a few ales. Gatherings are informal but stick to a fairly standard

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process. “Much of our time is filled with discussing upcoming BCBC Bay trips, as well as the interesting escapades of members,” says Jordin.

“Another regular feature has become the visit of guest speakers with a story to tell. This is sometimes instructive, sometimes amusing, but always interesting. Everyone has a story to tell,” Jordin muses. Guest speakers may also be club members.

For the last few years, the group has participated in the Clean Up Australia Day event. The members have worked to rid the creek banks and adjoining lands of rubbish, mostly plastic bottles. “We fear for what the Creek could look like if we were to let it go for a few years,” says Jordin.

For those new to boating, Jordin suggests joining a club (the BCBC in particular, of course!) to enjoy the comradery, sharing of ideas, and sense of community members remark on. “Boating and life on the water offer something special that can seldom be found elsewhere in life.” Members can join by themselves or bring their family along.

“There is nowhere better than the Bay (Moreton Bay) when the weather is fine. One of the best and easiest excursions is to travel our own Brisbane River; you can travel to the River mouth in about an hour (at 8 knots) or upstream for many hours as far as the Bremer River mouth,” suggests Jordin.

The club has explored many of these areas together over the years. “One excursion took us (with a guide boat) up the Bremer River into the heart of Ipswich, which is full of historical landmarks. Your city from the water is like a new world,” says Jordin. “It’s a shame more craft don’t take advantage of Brisbane’s best attribute.” Members were able to get a very different perspective of the South East.

You don’t need anything other than an interest in boating to become a member, either. “There are usually boats available that can accommodate another ‘hand’ when our trips are planned,” says Jordin. The Club has many events filling their calendar during the second half of the year, so now is a great time to join. You can be part of the regular July trip to Carrington Boat Club in the upper reaches of the Brisbane River, for instance, or later attend the Interclub Bay Cruise. This is an event where multiple clubs get together to spend quality time on the water in Moreton Bay. If you are interested in joining the fun-loving Breakfast Creek Boat Club, contact Rob (0419 796 065), Bailey (0413 717 711), or Commodore Ross (0408 453 585).

The Breakfast Creek, or Barrambin, is a small urban stream that is a tributary of the Brisbane River, located in suburban Brisbane, Queensland. John Oxley and Allan Cunningham met members of an aboriginal clan at the mouth of the creek in 1824. After they had breakfast at the site, a minor conflict with the Aboriginals arose after one of them grabbed Oxley's hat. Oxley named the waterway in remembrance of the incident. An important Aboriginal camping ground occupied the Breakfast Creek/Hamilton area until it was broken up by police raids in the 1860s. The camp was one of the major sources from which local Aboriginal people supplied the Moreton Bay colony with fish. It was also where Aboriginal leader Dalaipi spoke his famous 'Indictments', which were published in the Moreton Bay Courier in 1858.

JAN - MARCH 2020

, IT S OUR PLEASURE O N T I M E . O N B U D G E T. O N W A T E R .

40-foot classic wooden cruiser maintained by Lighthouse Shipwrights

With an unrivalled choice of exceptional contractors and services, you’ve found the perfect place for all of your maintenance, repair and refit needs. No matter how large or small, simple or complex the job, our trades are the best in the business and we all like working together to achieve the best result for our customers.

Experience the GCCM difference.

Call, drop in or check us out online for an obligation free quote for your boat.

BOATGOLDCOAST.COM. AU

| 07 5502 5888

55

BOAT GOLD COAST

GOLD COAST CITY MARINA

20 YEARS & COUNTING Celebrating the Pioneers of Refit & Repair planning for GCCM. It was ground-breaking. Never before in Australia had a site consolidated all the major marine trades into one clean, expansive and professionally managed site. Rather than slipways, boat owners had access to modern travel lifts.

Rather than a dispersed marine industry, boat owners had all the necessary trades within the facility handpicked for their expertise. It may seem the norm now, but it was the disruptor of its time.

GCCM CEO Trenton Gay

T

he start of the new year marks 20 years since the gates first opened at Gold Coast City Marina & Shipyard (GCCM). The iconic facility now blends into the thriving dedicated 250-hectare marine precinct in Coomera; yet 20 years ago, it stood alone as a beacon and a sign of things to come.

The Gays partnered with the Leigh-Smith family, who had a wealth of experience in managing marinas on the Gold Coast. The team was clear in its goal to select and amass the leading companies who offered the very best in craftsmanship. Not only was the facility different to what had gone previously yet so were the tenants. Only the best would do, and through the decades and changes – the Leigh-Smiths moved on in 2014 – the course has not altered.

The genesis of the development started in the 1980s when patriarch of the Gay family, Pat, was co-chair of the then newly formed Gold Coast Waterway Authority. The first order of business was to construct the Southport Seaway, and it soon became very clear, the land on the Spit would, before long, become too valuable for marine repair facilities.

Thus, the industry body earmarked a reach of the Coomera River as the future South East Queensland epicentre of marine services and manufacturing. At that point, boat owners were running between The Spit, Runaway Bay, Jacobs Well, and even the Brisbane River to find slipways, contractors and service providers. Not only to the benefit of the Gold Coast’s master plan, yet also to better serve the boating public, the Gold Coast Marine Precinct was born on farming land.

In 1996, the Gay family had the chance to purchase waterfront blocks in the area, and so began the 56

THE MARINE ‘DREAM TEAM’ Today, the facility is packed with over 80 thriving marine businesses at the very top of their games; driving each other to new heights; and giving the customer choices aplenty located right at the transom door; no running around chasing contractors; plenty of options available, competitive quotes and confidence in quality outcomes. The facility plays home to many of the

smartest minds and most talented craftsmen in the Australian marine industry. A team of passionate mariners who all go to great lengths to get boats back on the water, and to do it as quickly and efficiently as possible. Like an iconic rock brand or an unbeatable rugby union team – the ‘whole’ at GCCM is definitely greater than the sum of its parts and together they have become respected around Australia and the world as a truly committed team of outstanding marine professionals.

“At GCCM, we’re all boaties, so we understand the boat is every boatie’s happy place. We know how hard people work so they can own a boat, how hard they work to maintain a boat, so we want them to take full advantage of that ‘asset’ by maximising time out on the water reaping the rewards of their toil. That does not include more time than necessary on the hardstand or in a refit shed. This is why GCCM was created, and everyone here is driven to getting boats back out on the water where they belong and keeping them out there for as long as possible. It’s in our DNA,” Mr Trenton Gay, CEO of GCCM, enthused.

INDUSTRY HONOURS This ethos and the commitment to excellence and empathetic customer service have not gone unnoticed. GCCM has been awarded the Marina JAN - MARCH 2020

BOAT GOLD COAST

Find out more: gccm.com.au

Travis Slatter Industries Association’s Best Boatyard of The Year Award on a record number of occasions and has recently been inducted into the MIA Hall of Fame. Yet perhaps the greatest proof of this winning formula is the following of boat owners (from jet ski’s to superyachts) from all over the globe who sing the yard’s praises.

“After a long sailing voyage, GCCM was just the tonic we needed. The warm, friendly, and helpful staff made our 3-day stay relaxing and enjoyable right from the start. Holly welcomed us with great enthusiasm and provided us with all the local information we needed. The use of the courtesy car was a real bonus for getting essential boat bits and groceries. Thank you GCCM for your fabulous service. We'll be back!” offered Katherine and Gary, owners of SV Lady Katherine, a 14-metre ketch.

“GCCM is definitely the best set up shipyard in Australia. Contractors at GCCM are world class and with the depth and breadth in each category, you are guaranteed to have the work done on time. As this was our first time in the yard, we have made some new and lasting work friendships and developed relationships with local businesses. Overall, the experience was seamless and impressively productive.”

Dan, Captain, MY De Lisle III, 42m Gulf Craft

Jef Kikuchi

Briar Lemberg

Rather than slowing down or getting complacent, 20 years later, GCCM is powering on with future developments in the pipeline due in 2020; a stage two development, which will more than double the site, new undercover work areas, and upgraded 24/7 fuelling facilities.

Yet it is as much about expansive facilities as it is about the boats that have passed through.

The team estimate that, to date, they have lif ted over 100,000 boats. With that many boats, you would think it would be dif f icult to pick some favourites. However, the GCCM team was bursting with stories when we asked them for their memorable projects.

Travis Slatter – Operations Manager (10 years) I started as an antifoul applicator at GCCM and have worked my way up. It has given me great insight into all the facets of the yard and marina not to mention interactions with some amazing boats and owners. Russell Gage sticks in my mind.

Like him, I am a keen fisherman so when he started coming to the yard, I was keen to learn fishing tips from him. He has been so generous with his knowledge not just on fishing but on boats in general; he has even invited me to go fishing with him. He is more than a client; he is a friend.

Jef Kikuchi – 50 tonne Straddle Carrier Operator I can’t say I have a favourite boat which has come through the yard. To me they are all equal and should be treated accordingly. A smile doesn’t cost anything but goes a long way. What I enjoy about my job is the connections with tenants and customers. It is a great social interaction as much as anything else. I look forward to starting the morning getting to know more from the owners about the boats to be lifted and their idiosyncrasies. It is a pleasure to work with tenants like Doug Fielding at Regatta Marine. He is keen to assist, and together, we are a great team to get the job at hand done.

Briar Lemberg – Reception (less than one year) I am the newbie at GCCM, but I am no stranger to sailing or shipyards. As a kid, I sailed sabots and lasers competing in the national sabot championships.

After Uni, I cruised six years in Europe and the Caribbean as a head stewardess on superyachts.

That is a very customer-focused role where you need to problem solve on an hourly basis. Now I get to do that for the clients of GCCM, and I must admit I do already have a favourite; my Mum and Dad who are cruising the east coast in their sailing catamaran. It is an exciting place to work for the variety of boats and people who come through the facility.

Congratulations to the GCCM team past, present and future. We look forward to seeing what the next 20 years will bring.

open 7 days located at the gold coast city marina & shipyard, coomera reservations call (07) 5529 7127 BOATGOLDCOAST.COM. AU

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BOAT ANGLER

Fraser Island FAMILY, FUN, FISHING with

Matty Savas

Up before the crack of dawn with excitement, the day has finally arrived. The car is packed the night before for the 5am kick-off. The family in the car, and my mate Matt and his family pulled up out the front right on time. We swing past my parents’ house and they join the convoy with a quick stop to the servo for a coffee, and one more pick-up added to our Fraser Island crew, my cousin and her husband and young daughter. Four cars now headed up the highway with great anticipation.

Fraser Island is such a pristine, spiritual place. For this trip, my wife and I and three young boys stayed at Eurong in a house shared with my parents. The village is a fenced community so it's safer for the kids. The house we stayed in was called the Taxi House. This place had all the mod-cons we needed for our stay, even a pool. Matt and his family stayed not too far from us, just around the corner, and my cousin and her family were at the Eurong Resort. With a first night BBQ and catchup, the call was made to spend the first few days sightseeing as the wind was up. This made fishing tough but the sights of Fraser definitely did not disappoint.

The grand old wreck, the SS Maheno was a sight to behold, and there is not much left of the old girl – definitely one of the big attractions to Fraser island with a lot of cars and busloads of people stopping by. It is located about 10kms north of Happy Valley.

We then ventured inland on some tracks. The speed limit for driving on the beach is 80kms per hour, but on the tracks, it is only 30km per hour. That suited us fine, as we did not want to rush because some of the tree roots can be very unforgiving to the car. The tracks on and around Fraser Island are slow-going, and ample time should be given to really take in the sights. The different types of forests we encountered were really awe-inspiring. Some of the old trees were absolutely massive with diameters of about 2.5m.

The dingoes were very inquisitive, but you must always keep your wits about you, especially if you have young kids. I saw no aggression shown by these majestic creatures, but we gave them their space and they gave us ours. A good tip is, if you are fishing, to have a bucket with a lid. Also, it is wise to close the windows in the car if you are down by the water. I went out fishing early one morning and I left the window down. I looked back and could see a dingo with its paws up on the door trying to look in the car. The scratch marks down the door now serve as a permanent reminder about this moment.

Remember the surf beach is a busy road. If you are driving along at pace (80kms) and see cars pulled up with families playing, slow down a bit because kids will be kids and will be running about back and forth to the water. Our kids had many eyes on them at all times, but some of the cars still went past us at high speed and it is quite frightening.

If you have not been to Fraser Island, you should definitely include this in your bucket list – just breathtaking! Talks of us doing it all again next year are well underway, probably with more of us, as friends who have heard our stories are super keen to join. The more the merrier!

Catch more photos on my Facebook page and website www.fishflickers.com. au, and watch our video on You Tube – Fish Flickers.

Keep livin’ the dream

Matty

Central Station, the old logging village, was a trip back in time. A short stroll away was a crystal-clear little stream that at first glance did not look like it had water because it was so clear. The car park getting here had very soft sand but was easy to get through with low air pressure in the tyres, approximately 18psi.

Lake Mackenzie is a place that everyone must get to at least once in a lifetime.

The sand here is so light, soft and white, and the water is very cleansing and blue. Absolutely stunning!

Champagne Rock Pools is a magnificent place to spend a few hours with big bream and whiting getting trapped in there and not able to get out. They are very used to people and swim right up to you. Everywhere you look is a spectacular post-card shot.

The fishing was fun with tailor, beam flathead, whiting and dart being the main species we caught. I have done boys’ trips to Fraser Island before with epic catches of tailor, but this trip was more about the family having an enjoyable and memorable trip.

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JAN - MARCH 2020

, IT S OUR PLEASURE IT’S NOT JUST A JOB.

Robert, Detailed Polisher Wicked Fabrications & Engineering 14 years experience

We’ve assembled the widest choice of leading marine businesses with an impeccable reputation for quality without compromise. It’s their combined craft, their unrivalled experience and their attention to detail that sets the GCCM yard experience apart. It’s the small stuff they sweat and the boundaries they push to deliver the best quality outcomes for boats of every shape and size. That is why we are Australia’s most highly awarded marina & shipyard.

Call our friendly Customer Service Team for a personalised recommendation for your required works.

BOATGOLDCOAST.COM. AU

| 07 5502 5888

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o t y a w e t Ga y a B n o t e Mor Horizon Shores Marina & Shipyard 80 Cabbage Tree Point Road,Woongoolba QLD 4207 07 5546 2300 horizonshores.com.au 27° 45’ Latitude, 153° 21’ Longitude

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MARINA BERTHS SHIPYARD DRYSTACK STORAGE TRAILER BOAT STORAGE JETSKI STORAGE GENERAL STORAGE SHEDS JAN - MARCH 2020

Moreton Bay BRISBANE

North Stradbroke Island

COOMERA

South Stradbroke Island

GOLD COAST

See you this summer!

BOATGOLDCOAST.COM. AU

REPAIR TENANTS SERVICES COMMERCIAL REFIT SHEDS CAFE COURTESY BERTHS ANCHORAGE CAFE EVENT/WEDDING CATERING ICE/BAIT/GAS EXCHANGE

MEMBER BENEFITS INCLUDE: DISCOUNTS AT THE CHANDLERY, THE ANCHORAGE CAFE AND BOAT FUEL, UNLIMITED VESSEL LAUNCH AND RETRIEVALS, COURTESY SHOWERS AND TOILETS, WORK AREA ACCESS WITH POWER & WATER.

LOCALIMAGES.COM.AU

BOAT RAMP FUEL CHANDLERY BOAT BROKER TRAVEL LIFT/FORK LIFT EXTERNAL HARDSTAND MARINE REFIT & REPAIR

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HORIZON SHORES

SHIPYARD

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orizon Shores Marina has a huge variety of services on offer, with 500 Marina Berths, 350 dry stack storage bays, 200 trailer boat storage locations, a 70t travelift, on-water fuel facility, chandlery, marine refit and repair, hardstand and refit sheds, plus an onsite cafe.

TRAILER BOAT STORAGE & BOAT RAMP Horizon Shores Marina Trailer Boat storage is the ultimate solution to freeing up your driveway and storing your boat undercover.

MARINA BERTHS Horizon Shores Marina is one of the largest wetberth marinas in Australia. Catering for vessels up to 80ft in length, including catamarans, houseboats and cruising boats, we can provide you with shortterm or long-term berthing arrangements

Unlimited launch and retrievals; work area available for you to clean or tinker away; no queuing at boat ramps or ramp rage; no driving around looking for parking for both your vehicle and trailer, and you’re on the water quicker. So, why not free up your driveway or make space in your back yard; even better if you live in an apartment, you can have it all.

OUR FULL SERVICE MARINA INCLUDES: Dockside assistance with our friendly staff on standby to catch your lines and assist you berth; power; water; access-controlled entry gates; dockside refueling (diesel, ULP, premium); chandlery; ice; bait; café; haul-out facilities; refit and repair services; and, even after-hours security patrols.

SHIPYARD Our large hardstand facility consisting of a 70t marine travelift and 2 x 10t forklifts. We offer a secure concreted shipyard facility at highly competitive rates.

Being a full service marina, Horizon Shores provides haul-out and hard standing services for boats up to 70t in weight and 80ft in length. With all marinerelated services available in one location, we will be sure to have you back on the water as quickly as possible, saving you time and money.

Services available: Travelift haul-out 70t; forklifts up to 10t; external hardstand; work arm; enclosed refit/repair sheds 23 mtrs long x 12 mtrs wide x 10 mtrs high; and highpressure water blasting. Bookings are essential.

Benefits include:

BOAT RAMP Horizon Shores Boat Ramp is open to the public.

Avoid ramp rage and congestion with our friendly staff on hand to manage ramp movements. Ease of mind knowing that your car and trailer is at the marina, especially with our after-hours security patrols. Enjoy the convenience of dockside fuelling, a café, and chandlery open 7 days a week. All this for a flat fee rate of $20 per launch with unlimited nights out. Better still, why not purchase an Annual Ramp Pass for $290.00 per year. Please contact the marina office for further information on (07) 5546 2300.

DRY STACK STORAGE The ultimate solution to boat storage that places your boat out of the water in a fully enclosed storage shed. To make your boating easy, just call us one hour prior to your intended arrival, and we will launch your boat for you and have it ready for you waiting on our courtesy berth. At the end of your day, return your boat to the courtesy berth and we will flush your motors, rinse down the externals and put it away in our fully enclosed dry stack facility.

We’ve got boat storage covered.

500 Marina Berths • Public Boat Ramp Dry Stack, Trailer Boat, Jet-Ski & Tinnie Storage DIY Maintenance • High Pressure Water Blasting 70t Travelift • Brokerage • Fuel Wharf • Shipwright

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07 5546 2300 www.horizonshores.com.au JAN - MARCH 2020

BOAT

SERVICES & REFITS Storing your boat out of the sun and weather in our dry stack will reduce the costs of boat ownership by: extending the life of your covers and clears; eliminating the need for antifoul; reduce engine maintenance; prevent paint and fibreglass fade; no need for a trailer or large towing vehicle; reduce the wear-and-tear on your vehicle, not to mention fuel; reduced insurance premiums compared to parking on the street.

Conveniently Located Bet ween Brisbane & Gold Coast

FEATURED BUSINESSES:

MORGAN VINE MARINE Provider of quality shipwright services at the marina, including ďŹ bre glassing and vessel repairs, detailing, paint, fibreglass, carbon, custom par ts, timber installation, systems installations & project management.

Approved applicators of PPG Protective & Marine Coatings 12 month warranty antifouling.

Ph 0432 779 700 morganvinemarine@outlook.com

BOATGOLDCOAST.COM. AU

MARINE RV ELECTRONICS Eddy Vanderee, with over 25 years of experience in the Marine Electronics Industry has partnered with Garmin, Fusion, GME, Raymarine, Victron Energy systems and Czone. Situated next to the Anchorage CafĂŠ Eddy is ready to assist with the supply and installation of the latest in Navigation and Audio Visual equipment for boats and motorhomes.

Ph 0413 351 772 eddy@marinervelectronics.com.au

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Enquire t 64

.au om

Make every day a holiday!

sobay.c yp

ay at cal d o

JAN - MARCH 2020

Imagine, a pontoon in your backyard, access to the ocean, plus rivers, channels and islands all at an arms reach - this is Calypso Bay.

Now on sale the new Palms Release offers you a life of waterfront luxury in an exclusively planned community. Plus, the Residents’ Leisure Club offers an array of premium facilities. Enjoy an idyllic swimming pool, well equipped gymnasium, tennis courts and poolside cafe, this is resort style living.

Conveniently positioned between the Gold Coast and Brisbane and within easy reach of both airports; an enviable selection of beaches, shopping, schools and entertainment, you’ll be living in comfortable luxury.

Don’t miss the opportunity to wake up overlooking the water every morning. Enquire at calypsobay.com.au to secure your dream lifestyle today.

WATERFRONT LAND from $459,000.

LAND F from $4

Clear access to the open water, no bridges or speed limits.

Premium Residents’ Leisure Club

with resort style facilities.

Home to the Riviera raft-up.

Lots with allowance for a 24-metre pontoon, mooring a 90-foot boat.

Land lots available up to 1023m².

Close to favourite boating locations:

Calypso Bay Marina and Harrigan’s Calypso Bay waterfront pub.

North & South Stradbroke Island, Jumpinpin Bar, Tipplers, Tangalooma and more.

www.calypsobay.com.au BOATGOLDCOAST.COM. AU

Various fishing and island hot spots.

Calypso Bay Sales Office: 3 Recreation Place, Jacobs Well QLD 4208.

07 5546 2666 | sales@calypsobay.com.au 65

BOAT REVIEW

VISION 590 SERIES

Fishing Platform

T

he Sea Jay Vision 590 is a mid-range inshore and onshore fishing platform, incorporating the Sea Jay Samurai Hull. This features a raised sheer line (swept bow) and also incorporates a reverse chine. This streamline hull has been designed carefully to achieve the best performance possible. Test-driving this model is a unique experience as it slices through the waves, due to sharper entry, improving the ride. The Vision 590 is a traditional centre-console with the ability to fit the optional T-top.

SAMURAI HULL PRECISION The boat is designed with precision and accuracy using the latest 3D performance modeling software to deliver superior ride, slicing through choppy water and planing efficiently requiring less horsepower.

The Samurai Hull is designed with increased rising deadrise forming a sharper entry, improving the ride. The waterline width has been increased, creating a larger surface area and providing faster lift onto the plane and top-end speeds. With a raised sheer line or swept bow, the internal room in this hull has been increased providing higher safer sides.

STANDARD FEATURES

GREAT LIST OF OPTIONAL FEATURES

The hull bottom is made of 4mm 5083 plate aluminium, with 3mm sides, a beam of 2.47m, and a draft of 1.36m. The reverse chine Samurai Hull weighs just 660kg, and is licensed to carry 6 persons. A recommended 150hp Mercury outboard will ensure maximum performance out on the water. There are trim tabs with indicator switch and a 200ltr fuel tank under floor.

A list of options ensures the boat is compatible with every person’s needs. Add a Stressfree Marine NG Midi anchor winch, nylon rope kit and 4” roller, a ½ rear lounge and back rest, a saltwater deck wash, or a folding T-top canopy for the console. You can elect to have a GME GX400 27Mhz radio flush mounted with 1.8m aerial, and a Sarca #3 anchor with s/s swivel. For those wanting a unique appearance, there is a range of printed vinyl boat wraps.

The front casting platform has two hatches.

Around the boat are 6 well-positioned rod holders and side pockets for extra storage. There are heavy-duty 32mm low-bow rails, console screen grab rail, and rear transom rails.

Other standard features include a 135ltr ice box with seat cushion, two large battery storage, battery isolation switch, 6 gang switch panel, bilge pump, LED lighting, and navigation lights.

Special features include an anchor well and plumbed bait tank. A transom door allows access to a heavy-duty boarding ladder. The gunwale has rubber insert. The boat is fitted with 3 bollards and bowsprit and roller. The boat has wide side decks and a standard transducer bracket.

Sea Jay bring their product to you with personal pride and trust you will enjoy many memorable moments on some of the best waterways this country has to offer. Only the highest quality marine-grade aluminium and components are used to construct one of the most robust ranges of boats with a quality of finish enviable of other brands on the market today.

A special boat-motor-trailer package is available – Sea Jay Vision 590 Series with Mercury 150hp, Dunbier trailer, safety gear, and registration for $64,990.

What a better way to relax by getting out on the water in a quality Sea Jay aluminium boat from Nitro Marine. www.nitromarine.com.au

BOAT, MOTOR & TRAILER PACKAGE $64,990

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JAN - MARCH 2020

BOAT GUIDE JOURNEY

Quick tips for a

TIPPLERS TRIP Compiled by Roselle Tenefrancia

Tipplers Cafe, Kiosk, and Campgrounds are popular boaties’ destinations. Located on South Stradbroke Island, it's worth learning more about the island before you head out.

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he South Stradbroke Island is the most southern sand island in Moreton Bay, and its tip is the southern boundary of Moreton Bay Marine Park, a multiple-use marine protected area. Together with North Stradbroke Island and Moreton Island, it forms the eastern boundary of Moreton Bay. South Stradbroke Island Conservation Park is managed by the Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service (QPWS) to conserve its natural and cultural resources. The park covers 1,444ha of the island, and is protected under the Nature Conservation Act 1992. Most of the conservation park sits within habitat protection zone (HPZ15) with no trawling permitted and some restrictions on collecting. A marine national park (green) zone (MNP32) is located on the eastern beach near Currigee. All forms of collecting, including fishing, is prohibited in this zone.

On the eastern side of Jumpinpin (at the northern tip of the island), the shingle beds and sand dunes are an important breeding ground for migratory and resident shorebirds, including the red-capped plover, Australian pied oystercatcher, beach stonecurlew, and the endangered little tern.

BOATING, ANCHORING AND FISHING No public moorings are available at South Stradbroke Island, but private vessels can anchor in the Broadwater along the western side. There are two public jetties for loading and unloading - the North Currigee pontoon (campground) and South

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Currigee (the Esplanade) jetty - both of which have 20-minute limits for boats and jet skis.

While boating is largely unrestricted in the surrounding marine park, boat and jet ski operators must: ● adhere to rules in go slow and no anchoring areas ● ensure they do not unreasonably disturb shorebirds anywhere in the marine park ● not discharge any waste in marine national park (green) zones. ● reduce boat speed and avoid anchoring in the shorebird roosting areas.

Recreational fishing is popular along the eastern beach and The Broadwater. Tailor, flathead, dart, bream and whiting are often caught from the beaches, while reef and surface-feeding fish are caught offshore. When fishing: ● Keep fish, bait and burley in sealed containers and away from wildlife. ● Choose a fishing site away from flocks of shorebirds. ● Dispose of used bait bags and unwanted fishing line in bins or take them home. ● Do your fish cleaning away from camping areas. ● Stick to the correct speed limit; 'go slow' zones are there to care for seagrass beds and marine animals. ● Bag limits, size and seasonal restrictions apply.

Tipplers passage can become very busy during holiday season, and many boats anchor out on the Broadwater. Being mindful of other boat users and other users of the waterways is very important to maintain a pleasant experience on the water.

ON THE ISLAND Remember that South Stradbroke Island is a conservation park, so to minimise your impact, please be mindful of the following:

● Everything in the park is protected; leave everything as you found it. ● Pets are not permitted in the conservation park. ● Take rubbish home; bins are not provided in the park. ● Toilets are not provided in the park (except the cafe toilets). ● Avoid the spread of weeds; regularly check footwear and clothing for seeds and remove all seeds, wrap them and place in your rubbish container to bin later. ● Fires are not permitted in the park.

There are three campgrounds on the island: Tipplers Campground, North Currigee and South Currigee. To book at Tipplers Campground, visit the Tipplers Kiosk, located 400m north of Tipplers Campground; to book at the North Currigee and South Currigee, visit the South Currigee site office.

The Tipplers Licensed Cafe, offering a wide range of menu items for daytrippers, is located adjacent to the kiosk. The kiosk stocks water, ice, toiletries, milk, bread, lollies, cold drinks, ice creams, bait, snacks, weekend papers and kids activity packs, while ice deliveries may be arranged by phone. www.goldcoasttouristparks.com.au

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BOAT GUIDE JOURNEY ENVIRONMENT

STORM-SURGE MODELLING

FOR EMERGENCY RESPONSE MANAGEMENT

Storm-surge modelling can be a tool for State decision-makers not only during extreme weather events, but also for future planning and operational disaster management, as Gaelle Faivre writes.

A

storm surge is a rise of water level during a storm above the normal predicted astronomical tide. A surge can be a threat to life and can be very destructive, affecting properties during a cyclone.

Tropical cyclone behaviour involves a large range of spatial, temporal and intensity uncertainties that makes it difficult to forecast inundation, and as a consequence, the decision to evacuate.

The inundation caused by storm tide varies with changes in tropical cyclone parameters, such as the radius of the wind, the speed of the cyclone, the angle of approach to the coast, the intensity that is given by the central pressure, the interaction with the local bathymetry or the time when the cyclone made landfall. The bathymetry is the underwater depth of the ocean. Such changes in the forecast information are required to be considered in the decision-making for evacuation.

The understanding of the current disaster management system and effective hazard forecast, warning and decision support systems are essential to develop a method to support decision-makers and facilitate their actions during an extreme event.

Griffith Centre for Coastal Management has conducted storm-surge modelling to support 68

emergency response management during a tropical cyclone. The project was funded as a partnership of the Queensland Government through the Department of Science, Innovation, IT and the Arts, Griffith University, Queensland Fire and Emergency Services, the Queensland Cyber Infrastructure Foundation, and DHI Water and Environment Pty Ltd, and was a collaboration with the Bureau of Meteorology.

This project developed QSurge, an integrated stakeholder engagement emergency management decision support system architecture using highperformance computing. QSurge provides a real-time inundation forecast to support decisionmakers. It has been developed as a prototype for the North Queensland Coast based on large tropical cyclone scenarios using parametric wind fields of tropical cyclones making landfall along the coast. QSurges informs the timing and location of areas subject to evacuation notices during Tropical Cyclones for coastal areas of Queensland.

Consultation with local area disaster managers highlighted the value of presenting information using maps rather than storm tide levels, and lead to an enhancement of the system to include high resolution information on the areas impacted over time. This enhancement, known as SurgeImpact, provides maps of storm surge inundation at the street level resolution (30m) and identifies the number of residents impacted for a tropical cyclone scenario using a library of pre-calculated simulations. All the maps are provided in a dynamic time dimension from 12 hours prior to the land-falling time, to six hours after the tropical cyclone made landfall; then they consider the tidal variations.

Moreover, time series plots per hours of impacts, such as population, main roads, dwelling and area of ecosystems impacted have been added.

The decision-makers have then the possibility of picking the scenario projected by the Bureau of Meteorology and see the impacts from various time of impacts. This tool would have the possibility to support decision-makers in their decision to evacuate a community by identifying the worst case and impacts, and then evaluate the potential risks. The Surge Impact pilot tool can be improved to include climate adaptation options, such as levees and seawalls and the calculation of the value of assets at risk.

Qsurge and Surge Impact are not intended to replace the current hazard forecasting system provided by the Bureau and State government agencies; however, they can be used as a support to help decision-makers in both future-planning and operational disaster management. They could, for example, be extended to areas, which are less impacted by tropical cyclones such as the Gold

Coast waterways, particularly in the context of future climate change. The overall framework for decision support could also be applied to other natural hazards such as tsunamis, bush fire or earthquake to provide time-related information about evacuation.

Figure 1 Determination of Tropical cyclone scenarios by entering the angle of approach, the central pressure, the radius of maximum wind, the forward speed and the land fall time and location

Figure 2: Example of impact assessment report for a specific scenario

Figure 3 Water depth in Townsville showing the street resolution for a tropical scenario JAN - MARCH 2020

BOAT GUIDE ENVIRONMENT

South Stradbroke Island

Marine Debris Project

By Charlie-Jane Hamblyn and Zara McConachy, Youth Ambassadors

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outh Stradbroke Island is a destination for tourists and locals alike. Located on the southeast coast of Queensland within the Moreton Bay Region (Quandamooka Country), this beautiful and unique island ecosystem has fallen victim to a devastating and increasing marine debris problem. Early in 2019, Cyclone Oma caused severe weather that resulted in parts of the island that usually remain untouched becoming overwhelmed with marine debris. Large amounts of remains created by the waste habits of humans were pushed by the cyclone above the tide line and alongside the litter left from travellers. This waste is now wreaking havoc on the island’s beautiful and unique ecosystems.

The Silkwood School Youth Ambassadors are a group of diverse and dedicated young people, with a passion for environmental conservation. Having previously conducted conservation project work in the Great Barrier Reef Islands, Norfolk Island, and Hauraki Gulf of New Zealand, we decided that we wanted to focus our efforts on a pressing local issue in the area of island conservation. Through other outdoor adventurous learning expeditions we have undertaken, and with the help of mentors, we were able to identify South Stradbroke Island as a marine debris problem area after Cyclone Oma. On 28 February 2019, a pilot group of Youth Ambassadors set out on a project scoping expedition to South Stradbroke Island, conducting an initial beach clean-up and audit, working with our partner, Jacobs Well Environmental Education Centre (JWEEC). The aim then was to decide if we could run a project there, and what it would look like if we were to. We were able to collect 1,002 pieces of debris with the help of 12 students and two mentors. We saw first-hand the amount of debris requiring removal in the cycloneimpacted sand dunes.

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In June, a group of 40 travelled to South Stradbroke Island to conduct a sand dune clean-up and audit.

This event marked the official launch of our project.

With our partners, JWEEC, Gold Coast Catchment Association, Panamuna Project, Reef Check Australia, and supported by the City of Gold Coast, we were able to collect just under 9,000 pieces of debris, including 4,522 hard plastics, 496 pieces of broken glass, and 980 soft plastics. This data collected was sent to the Tangaroa Blue Marine Debris Database. This collated data is used to target businesses and governments with the aim of stopping waste at its source and enacting measurable change.

The South Stradbroke Island Marine Debris project, backed by $12,000 in grant funding, has been gaining momentum. The island was visited again in September, with volunteers collecting a further 5,180 items. And to complete the 2019 leg of this campaign, we returned to the island in November. On this trip we were able to collect 9,350 items of debris, including 2,530 pieces of microplastic. This brings the total to a shocking 24,195 items removed from the sand dunes in 2019.

A significant amount has originated from recreational fishing and boating. We found 3,500 pieces of fishing equipment, with it being the second largest category of debris. So far, we have collected over 1km of netting and fishing wire. Fishing gear and rope make up a noticeable portion of the debris we find, but by far, plastic has been the most prominent form of waste that we have witnessed. In total, we found nearly 16,000 pieces of plastic debris over the past year, making up 72% of the total debris we have collected. Some information about the clean-ups, including some of the data, can be seen on Tangaroa Blue’s website.

We are venturing back to South Stradbroke Island in 2020 to continue with our large-scale clean ups and

audits. We hope to open the project to other schools to get more youth out there on the frontlines tackling the conservation issues facing us today and taking action to preserve our precious marine ecosystems. Protect the sea, pick up debris.

“Caring for the environment is a very important value to have, especially present day and in the future. So, gaining an education of close-to-home issues and creating connections to these places can nurture an understanding and appreciation of the environment. I feel like it does not necessarily change your opinion, but it adds a layer of understanding to the effects of these activities. I don’t expect anyone to give up these things, but I feel that through working in a hands-on manner to combat negative effects, we can gain the knowledge of how direct our impact is.” (Zara G, Youth Ambassador) To know more about the South Stradbroke Island-Marine Debris project, contact rwlc@silkwood.qld.edu.au

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BOAT BOAT GUIDE PROTOCOL

HOW WELL DO YOU KNOW THE COLREGS?

GOLD COAST BOATER'S

QUIZ

By Ms Claire Strodder, Maritime Lawyer

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o, it’s the Christmas holidays, the kids are off school and it’s the height of summer – the perfect time to take your boat out. Before you set sail, make sure you know the ropes on the COLREGs.

The COLREGs is short-hand for the International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea 1972, and they outline the internationally agreed rules for safe navigation of vessels, including the requirement to keep a look-out, travel at a safe speed, operation of vessels in narrow channels like rivers and also the ‘give way’ rules. The COLREGs apply pretty much everywhere in the world, including in Queensland waters; they are basically the traffic laws of the water.

At Pacific Maritime Lawyers, we often assist clients who have unfortunately been involved in a collision while out on their boat and we help with the aftermath. The consequences can range from dealing with insurers to determine fault for the collision, to managing criminal charges against our client for breach of the COLREGs, or assessing our client’s claim for physical injuries and losses, or in a worst case scenario, acting for the family of a deceased person.

To make sure you do not end up high and dry, take our quiz and ask your friends, family and fellow boaters to join in! How well do you know the ropes?

Photo by Parker Boats

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1

It is a beautiful summer’s day and you are out in your power-driven boat near South Stradbroke Island. You can see another powerdriven boat approaching from your starboard side. Who has right of way? a. The other boat has right of way. b. Neither has right of way. c. You have right of way.

The answer is ‘a’. If another boat is approaching your vessel from its starboard (right hand) side then the other boat will have right of way. This means that you must take action to avoid a collision with this other boat and give it plenty of sea-room.

You are just setting off for a day out on the waves in your power-driven boat. You can see a power-driven boat approaching that is on your port side. You are on the other boat’s starboard side so you have right of way and the other boat should give way to you. The other boat does not appear to be giving way. What should you do?

2

Remember! If the other boat is a larger vessel like a ferry or a container ship, the rule about giving way to the boat on the starboard side may not apply, especially if the larger vessel can only navigate within a narrow channel safely.

Larger boats due to their size are more difficult to manoeuver and so the masters of smaller boats should use their common sense and give these larger vessels a wide berth.

a. You don’t need to do anything. You should keep on going as you have right of way. It’s the other boat’s fault if they don’t stop for you. b. Wave at the other boat and signal that you are proceeding on your course. c. Take whatever action is needed to avoid a possible collision.

3

The correct answer is ‘c’. Even though you have right of way and the other boat should give way to you, if they do not appear to be doing so, you must take whatever evasive action is needed to avoid a collision. This includes changing course, but only to the starboard side, as if you change course to the port side this could place you in the path of the boat that is supposed to give way.

Watch out. If you do not take any evasive action you are likely to be also held at fault for the collision even though the other vessel should have given way to you.

You are on your way home from a great day out fishing with your mates. You live at Hope Island and need to sail down the Coomera River to get home. What side of the river should you sail on? a. The starboard (right) side. b. The port side (left). c. Nobody is on the river now so you can sail on any side you want to.

The answer is ‘a’. A boat must always be navigated on the starboard side of a river or a narrow channel. Remember, you must not anchor your boat in a narrow channel.

4

The sun is shining, and you are on your way out for an afternoon in the boat with the family. You notice that another boat is approaching your boat head on. What should happen next?

JAN - MARCH 2020

BOAT PROTOCOL The answer is ‘c’. Both boats should alter their course to the starboard side so they can pass the other boat on the other boat’s port side.

5

You and your mates head out sailing for the weekend. Your mate notices another sail boat approaching your sail boat. Both sail boats have wind coming from different sides. You know that your sail boat has wind coming from the port side. Who should give way? a. The other sail boat should give way to your sail boat. b. You should give way to the other sail boat. c. It depends on which direction the other sail boat is coming from.

The answer is ‘b’. When two sailing boats have wind on different sides, the boat with the wind on its port side must give way to the boat with the wind on the starboard side. If both sail boats have wind on the same side, the boat that is upwind (to windward) must give way.

6 Photo by Cobalt Boats

a. The other boat should alter its course – you have right of way. b. You should alter your course so that the other boat does not have to – then you know you are safe. c. Both vessels should alter their course to starboard.

It is the last day of the summer break and you are involved in a collision with another boat. You have minor injuries and there is some damage to the boat. You know you must report the collision to a shipping inspector. How long do you have to do this? a. There is no time limit. b. At the earliest opportunity within 48 hours after the owner or master of the boat becomes aware of the incident. c. Within 24 hours after the owner or master of the boat becomes aware of the incident.

The answer is ‘b’. There is an obligation under section 125 of the Transport Operations (Marine Safety) Act 1994 (Qld) that ‘marine incidents’ must be reported at the earliest opportunity but within 48 hours of the owner (or the master) of the boat becoming aware of the incident, unless there is a ‘reasonable excuse’. A ‘reasonable excuse’ could be, for example, if the owner or master had sustained serious injuries and was unable to report the incident in the time frame set by the law. If the owner (or master) of the boat does not comply with this obligation and has no ‘reasonable excuse’, there is a costly penalty of up to $5,222.

So, how well do you know the ropes on the COLREGs? If you didn’t score too highly then make sure you brush up your knowledge before setting sail this summer.

Finally, check out my 3 top tips for smooth sailing this summer: Always keep a proper lookout.

Always be prepared to take evasive action to avoid a collision; when in doubt, take action!

Know the COLREGs! Give the team at Pacific Maritime Lawyers a call on 1300 797 627, they will be very happy to assist.

For further reading on local boating news, go to our website by scanning the QR code, or copy and paste the link: boatgoldcoast.com.au

Owning a boat should be a lifelong pleasure.

The process of buying a boat should be easy if done right.

Members of the Boating Industry Association pledge to abide by the Associations Code of Practice.

When buying a boat from a boat broker, look for the BIA logo.

BIA members can be found at www.bia.org.au or by calling (02) 9438 2077.

Life on the water is great. The process for buying a boat should also be.

Members of the Boating Industry Association pledge to abide by its Code of Practice that also incorporates its Code of Ethics. To make sure a business carrying the BIA logo is a current member, check for their details at

www.bia.org.au

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BOAT PROTOCOL

Groundings

By Jackie and Noel Parry

Jackie Parry SisterShipTraining www.sistershiptraining.com

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roundings occur more often than you think, given today’s reliance on electronic navigation aids. A grounding can commonly be the result of incorrect use of digital charts (wrong scale usually), insufficient paper chart backup, poor route planning, fatigue, and lack of appropriate look-out.

Groundings or strandings refer to unintentional contact with the seabed. These can occur suddenly without warning.

A stranding can be avoided by navigating with caution and keeping a regular check on your position. Remember safety is the most important aspect when planning and undertaking a voyage. And unless you zoom in on every screen on electronic charts, you could miss a rock, reef, a partial or submerged object. Refer to paper charts when route planning.

quick way to deploy the anchor (via the dinghy) in the right position so you can kedge off. A sailing boat may be able to lift their keel or induce a heeling moment by raising a sail to leeward thus raising the keel from the seabed. Even swinging out a weighted boom may be sufficient to swing the keel up and off. You should try to prevent being driven further onto the reef whenever possible.

If you do manoeuvre your boat off the bottom quickly, carefully check the hull and bilges for damage and/or water penetration before proceeding with your trip. If severe damage has occurred and you are sinking, it may be prudent to deliberately run the vessel aground again, preferably in a location that allows the crew to evacuate safely.

BUT WE’RE STUCK!

MAINTAIN WATERTIGHT INTEGRITY

If you cannot immediately free your boat, and you are stuck, stabilise the vessel as per above and assess the situation.

Watertight integrity can be breached through any activity or event that allows the ingress of water in unwanted areas of the vessel. Examples include damage caused by collision, grounding, or heavy weather.

● What’s the sea-state? ● Is there a swell? ● Is night approaching? ● Is there bad weather approaching? ● Is the tide rising or falling? ● Are you in a dangerous position – i.e. busy seaway?

WHAT TO DO FIRST

Each one of these questions will help you form a plan. Obviously if you can manoeuvre your vessel off the seabed, do so straight away. If you have to wait for the tide to rise and night is approaching and you are in a busy seaway, alert local vessels with a sécurité message and organise appropriate lighting.

RAISE THE ALARM If you go aground, for any reason, the first thing you must do is raise the alarm. This is the number one priority in any emergency situation. The situation could snowball quickly, and then there may not be time to call for help. If your emergency is out of control this could save your vessel and even your life.

That, however, does not mean activating the EPIRB straight away. First, assess the situation, and inspect the bilge. Let someone know what is happening. It may be a quick fix, or it may be not.

Once the situation has been remedied, you simply pass on this information to the person/organisation you alerted in the first place.

Failure to cancel your sécurité alert may endanger the lives of others who have assumed you are in distress. If you don’t let them know that all is well, they will try to reach you and organise some help.

WHAT NEXT? Secure the vessel. Ensure you have a safe platform to work on and that you can stay there (depending on location and weather) for as long as needed.

For example, if you are on a falling tide, transfer as much weight as you can into the bottom of the vessel and try to deploy the ground tackle to stabilise the boat.

If you are on a seaway and you are not ready to move, stabilise your boat by laying out anchors. If you can completely fill or completely empty tanks, do so as either one will prevent the effects of liquid mass sloshing side to side creating an imbalance; this is commonly referred to as ‘free surface effect’.

Sometimes it is possible to remove the vessel from a grounding almost immediately, depending on the tide, the sea, and type of vessel. For example, if you go aground at the very bottom of the tide and the conditions are calm (and you were making way slowly at the time of the grounding) the vessel should reverse easily. There may be a 72

When there is bad weather approaching, assess your location, the strength of vessel, the ability to stabilise, and the ability to ask for a rescue tow.

ECHO SOUNDERS Echo sounders can be fitted with alarms to notify you when you are in shallow water. You should, however, be monitoring your sounder and position carefully and constantly when in shallow water.

Most echo sounders can be adjusted so that the depth of water is shown and not just the under-keel depth. If your sounder is set with the under-keel depth, then the draught of your boat must be added to the sounding to arrive at the depth of water.

Tide will also have to be taken into account to adjust the sounding shown on the display so as to correspond with the charted depth.

MULTICOLOURED DISPLAYS On multicoloured displays, different colours represent various signal strengths for returning echoes. This makes it possible to identify the reflecting properties, and therefore composition, of the seabed.

ECHOES Echo sounders usually consist of an oscillator, transducer, amplifier and recorder/ display. Oscillators convert direct current from a power supply to an alternating current signal, i.e. short electrical pulses. A small part of the pulse is fed to the display to indicate the zero base. The major part of the pulse is passed to the transducer which is usually sited on the bottom of the hull. The pulse is transmitted from the transducer as ultrasonic vibrations in a downward direction. The interval between the transmission and subsequent reception of the reflected pulses is measured and indicated in terms of depth on a display.

JAN - MARCH 2020

BOAT PROTOCOL

AUS18121 / 1218

High and Dry … let us help get you back in the water!

Diagram: Jackie Parry SisterShipTraining www.sistershiptraining.com VARIABLE AMPLIFIERS Within the circuit is a variable amplifier. The signal for greater depths need to be amplified. Signals returning from shallow depths need little amplification. If the amplification is too high you may receive multiple echoes.

POSITIONING OF THE TRANSDUCER The transducer should be located in the optimum position in the vessel’s hull to receive the maximum benefit. The main problem with positioning is due to the aeration in the bubble train beneath the vessel. This aeration usually comes from the propeller, bow wave or underwater hull projections. Experiments show that the best position is from one quarter to one third of the vessel’s length from the bow.

MULTIPLE ECHOES With a hard sea bottom and maximum sensitivity especially in shallower waters, there are often numerous echo lines visible. This is due to the pulses being reflected a number of times between the sea bottom and the hull or surface of the water.

Reducing the gain will help remove these.

SECOND TRACE RETURN This may occur in deep water during the time the first pulse is on its way to the seabed and back; the transducer has sent a second pulse, and while open to receive this second pulse, receives the original pulse. It will be displayed as though it was from the later (second) pulse, and at a much shallower depth than the seabed.

UNEVEN TRACE This occurs when the vessel is in rough seas and moving over a smooth seabed. It is caused by the vessel pitching, giving rise to the apparent up and down movement of the seabed. The minimum reading should be taken as the depth.

BOTTOM INTERPRETATION ● ● ● ●

Mud often produces a weaker echo. ● A smooth bottom is usually mud or sand.

A sudden steep change in depth is likely to be coral or rock.

A hard or rocky bottom can give rise to second and third echoes.

Mud overlaying hard rock can provide separate echo lines.

We’ll provide you with the support you need in situations like this … in Australia and all around the world!

PAPER CHART INFORMATION Authority: The publisher that is responsible for the chart. e.g. NOAA, British Admiralty, Australian Hydrographic Service.

A chart will show the depth of water by soundings and depth contours, shoreline, topographic features, nature of the bottom, tidal streams, magnetic variation, etc., for the area, as well as:

With our unique ALL RISK POLICY you are automatically covered for any loss unless it is specifically excluded. No need for you and your Lawyer to check hundreds of clauses and their definitions!

DEPTH CONTOURS Depths: reduced to Chart Datum, which means they use the datum of the Lowest Astronomical Tide (LAT). The LAT is the lowest levels which can be predicted to occur under average meteorological conditions. Note: LAT is not the lowest level that may be reached as storm surges may cause considerably lower levels to occur.

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Sydney · Phone +61-(0)2-9936 1670 · pantaenius.com.au To determine if our insurance products are right for you please access our PDS from our website.

AFSL 410502 - ABN 95148013085

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BOAT PROTOCOL Soundings and drying heights: Soundings are given below Chart Datum; drying heights are given above Chart Datum. See image below:

Convention on the International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea, 1972 (COLREGs) RULE 30 Anchored vessels and vessels aground (a) A vessel at anchor shall exhibit where it can best be seen: i. in the fore part, an all-round white light or one ball; ii. at or near the stern and at a lower level than the light prescribed in subparagraph (i), an all-round white light. (b) A vessel of less than 50 metres in length may exhibit an all-round white light where it can best be seen instead of the lights prescribed in paragraph (a) of this Rule. (c) A vessel at anchor may, and a vessel of 100 metres and more in length shall, also use the available working or equivalent lights to illuminate her decks. (d) A vessel aground shall exhibit the lights prescribed in paragraph (a) or (b) of this Rule and in addition, where they can best be seen: i. two all-round red lights in a vertical line; ii. three balls in a vertical line. (e) A vessel of less than 7 metres in length, when at anchor, not in or near a narrow channel, fairway or anchorage, or where other vessels normally navigate, shall not be required to exhibit the lights or shape prescribed in paragraphs (a) and (b) of the Rule. (f) A vessel of less than 12 metres in length, when aground, shall not be required to exhibit the lights or shapes prescribed in sub-paragraphs (d) (i) and (ii) of this Rule.

MHWS – Mean High Water Spring MHWN – Mean High Water Neap MLWN – Mean Low Water Neap MLWS – Mean Low Water Spring Diagram: Jackie Parry SisterShipTraining www.sistershiptraining.com SECURITE: THE SAFETY ALERT Sécurité (“say-cure-i-tay”) is used when conveying useful information, including potential safety risks, navigation hazards or weather warnings.

PAN-PAN: THE URGENCY ALERT Pan-pan (“pahn-pahn”) indicates that a vessel or a person on board needs assistance but is not in immediate danger.

MAYDAY: THE DISTRESS ALERT Thought to originate from the French m’aidez (help me), mayday means a vessel or person is in grave or imminent danger and signifies a request for immediate assistance. Mariners hearing mayday calls should immediately cease traffic on Channel 16 and stand by for further information.

YOU MUST SLOW DOWN IN SHALLOW WATER! Smelling the Bottom (aka Smelling the Ground, or Squat) “Smelling the bottom” is a hydrodynamic explanation for squat. And squat is when water squeezes between the bottom of the boat and the seafloor. This creates an area of low pressure and the vessel sinks, or squats, into it. So the boat rides deeper in the water. Technically speaking, the vessel does not increase its draft — the waterline stays the same. However, the water immediately surrounding the vessel assumes a lower level. This will result in the vessel touching the bottom where it should not (according to depth). The effect is heightened by speed – slow down!

So how far does a vessel squat? That is dependent on the vessel’s draft and the depth of water that draft is in. Sea state is also a factor, when you are in a trough, you are in less water.

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JAN - MARCH 2020

BOAT GUIDE PROTOCOL

Avoid Divorce!

NAUTICAL TRAINING COURSE H

ow confident are you with your nautical adventures? Need crew training? Husband and wife team building?

Nautical Training Boat & Jet Ski Licence is just the beginning of your nautical adventures!

Many boaters have little or no experience before purchasing their first boat or jet ski. Applying for Recreational Marine Driver Licence (RMDL) or Personal Watercraft Licence (PWCL) is often just the beginning of their nautical training. Those upgrading to larger vessels usually find they need additional nautical training to consolidate and refresh their boating knowledge, appropriate to the hull type, size and propulsion and electronics of their new boat.

Nautical Training offers advanced vessel handling and boat familiarisation to further your understanding of larger vessel operations, twin screw manoeuvring, and confidence building in navigational skills and knowledge of our busy waterways, and extended passage trip planning.

As the premiere trainer for organisations such as Riviera Boats, Nautical Training are an industryrecognised name in boat licencing, offering comprehensive one-on-one and group training and licencing services for clients on the Gold Coast, Brisbane and throughout Southeast Queensland.

Nautical Training has been conducting “Women/Men Skippers on Water” educational training sessions with Riviera’s team of experts since 2008.

Instructor Karla Del Herbert-Evans can tailor the training specific to your level of experience with a theory and practical component for each session.

“I am fortunate to have crewed for 12 years with some of the best skippers and crew in the business during the black marlin game fish seasons since 1987. Working in all areas on many vessels including live-aboard game boats, yachts, catamarans, mother ship cruise boats and their tenders, i.e. outboard tillers, centre consoles, inflatable dive boats and jet skis,” explains Karla.

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“My passion is game fishing and diving, gaining my experience since 1985, either through yachting, fishing or diving on the Great Barrier Reef, or as crew onboard private dive vessel the 90ft MV Mantaray in the Spring of 1995 and 1996 in the Solomon Islands,” Karla says.

“I gained the majority of my big boat experience through many game fishing seasons with Riviera’s Bob Jones Sports Fishing Australia, the IGFA-famed Peter B Wright, Lee Marvin’s legendary Aussie Skipper Brazzaka (Denis Wallace), And crewed with many of the Marlin Fishing Captains of today. Most recently on Charter Mothershipping on "Laura J" for "Adventum" with Captain Darren Hayden (Biggles) known for his high flying wiring days with the great Laurie Woodridge on "Seababy IV".

Obtaining her Open/Offshore Master Class 5 Captain ticket back in 1995, Karla has worked locally with Riviera, private yachts and water taxis becoming familiar with our Gold Coast’s abundant canals and waterways. She had been navigating day and night tours in the charter boat tourism industry from Marina Mirage for three years. She was also the Master onboard Marcrista, a 50ft ocean yacht, and a Master of a 60ft Catamaran Pelican Too that ran snorkel and dive charters in Aruba, Dutch West Indies, Caribbean.

Trainees taking part in Riviera's "Skippers on Water" programme at the Riviera Festival for Riviera boat owners

As a Boatsafe training provider since 2006, Karla has had the opportunity to offer comprehensive education to all new and experienced mariners, that “give you the skills and knowledge to confidently undertake basic navigation, boat handling and understand the safety requirements and your responsibilities under the law.

As your professional trainer, I am happy to pass on my knowledge and upon issue of your Certificate of Competency or Achievement Award. I look forward to shake your hand and enjoy the smile on your dial as you head off to experience your own nautical adventures,” Karla exudes.

NAUTICAL TRAINING COURSES

For further education about your boat, Karla recommends the Advanced Broadwater Practical and Offshore Navigation Course. To book these courses, or a boat licence and jet-ski licence training and assessment, as well as AMSA Exemption 38 courses, contact Karla directly karla@nauticaltraining.com.au; PH: 0412 550 570.

Radar Plotting

Navigation Basics: IALA Buoyage System Chart Features - Latitude and Longitude Compass True & Magnetic - Tide Calculations Compass Bearings - Compass Conversions Distance Speed Time - Passage Planning Navigation 2 - Positioning: Chart Plotting Shaping a Course - Calculating Set and Drift Dead Reckoning - Position Fixing Navigation 3 - Night Navigation: Night Navigation - Radar Positioning Onboard Practicals: Vessel Familiarisation Knots, Lines and Hitches - Broadwater Navigation Vessel Handling and Manoeuvring Berthing, Docking and Anchoring Broadwater Night Navigation

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BOAT LEGAL

DON’T ROCK THE BOAT PROTECT YOUR BOAT HIRE BUSINESS WITH Ts & Cs

By Claire Strodder, Maritime Lawyer Photo by Catalina Yachts ausailmarine.com

S

o, you have your own business hiring vessels out to the public (so we are talking polycraft, kayaks, pedal boats, paddle boards, and so on). Are you protected when things go wrong (when at some stage they will!)? The answer is probably “no”.

Now maybe you are thinking, “What can go wrong?” or “I’ve been doing this for years, and nothing has ever gone wrong!” This article will give you five reasons why terms and conditions, or Ts&Cs, are essential to protect you and your business.

1. CERTAINTY AND TRANSPARENCY Written Ts&Cs, whether they are on your website or on paper, help to create certainty as to what the agreement is between you and your customer. You can have an oral contract, such as a chat about what the agreement is: i.e. your customer can hire the kayak for 2 hours, for $100, and they must have the kayak back to you by 5pm, and so on. The problem with oral contracts is that you can forget what was agreed, or even have a different recollection to your customer of what was agreed, which can, in turn, lead to

misunderstandings or even an expensive legal dispute. Of course, because the agreement was made orally, there is no way to prove what was actually agreed!

Do not rock the boat. The easy way around this is to have standard Ts&Cs, which clearly set out the agreements that are being made. Most importantly, Ts&Cs are legally binding; they will protect you when things go wrong. So, if you are in the business of hiring vessels out (and other lines of business for that matter), you can have one set of standard Ts&Cs that you use for every vessel you hire out. Simple.

Remember as well, it will also cost you a lot less to have a set of standard Ts&Cs drawn up that effectively protect you and your business, than it will to defend an expensive legal claim or costly court case should a dispute arise.

3. LIMIT YOUR LIABILITY Liability in the event of a breach is another key area where you or your business can be at risk and where you will need protecting. To do this, you can use your Ts&Cs to either exclude liability altogether, or you can instead cap the amount

2. COST SAVINGS But what about the cost? It will obviously cost to engage a lawyer to draw up a set of Ts&Cs specific for your business, covering all of the important points (like payment, hire period, late return, damages, parties’ obligations, insurance, etc.). But you can use the Ts&Cs for every vessel you hire out with peace of mind, knowing that there is a clear agreement in place with your customer.

Photo by multihullsolutions.com.au

• Are you buying/selling/chartering a boat or maritime business?

• Do you need help with risk assessments, audits, regulatory compliance and licensing and registration advice?

• Do you need marine incident & pollution support?

• Are you facing maritime commercial or crewing disputes?

Capt John Kavanagh AFNI MQLS

1300 797 627

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www.pacificmaritimelawyers.com.au info@pacificimaritimelawyers.com.au

JAN - MARCH 2020

Photo by John Groom

OUR LAWYERS ARE EXPERIENCED MARINERS AND MARINE REGULATORS

BOAT LEGAL payable in damages if there is a breach, or you can restrict the remedies available or impose a time frame to claim. Either way, you can ascertain where you stand in terms of liability. If you do not limit your liability, you run the risk of exposing yourself to unlimited liability.

Remember though that Ts&Cs must always comply with the Australian Consumer Law. For example, you cannot have terms in the agreement that will be unfair or misleading, as they will be unenforceable anyway. This area can be quite complicated. If your Ts&Cs do not effectively limit your liability (or you do not even have Ts&Cs), you can find yourself in deep water. That is why it is best to seek independent legal advice tailored to your needs.

to providing good, consistent customer service and to protecting your business. There will be no nasty surprises for you or your customer!

4. ENHANCE CUSTOMER SERVICE

5. THEY HELP YOU COMPLY WITH THE LAW

Another reason why you should have a standard set of Ts&Cs for your business is that they help you provide good customer service, which is consistently applied to all of your customers. It is key to have a clear set of Ts&Cs that are easy to understand. The Ts&Cs will reassure the customers that you have everything covered, like insurance!

A good set of Ts&Cs will establish what is called the ‘governing law’ between you and the customer. This means that the Ts&Cs will set out the state laws and rules that will apply. If your business is located in Queensland, then any dispute will be dealt with under Queensland laws and by Queensland courts.

Ts&Cs also set out what will happen in all of those ‘common’ or usual scenarios, where disputes are most likely to arise. You will be able to set out in writing the important points, such as, what will happen if your customer wants to cancel, damages the vessel, or is late in returning the vessel? With clear Ts&Cs, your customer will know what will happen, when, how and why. Clearly setting out the Ts&Cs at the beginning is crucial

Ts&Cs will also help you and your business comply with the law. One example is, when a customer comes to hire a vessel, you will most probably take their name, address, phone number and even their bank details. All of this information is what is known as “personal information” about your customers that you are collecting, using, storing and hopefully, not disclosing – unless, of course, you have consent to do so or you are

Photo of Fountaine Pajot multihullsolutions.com.au

required to do so by law! In light of identity theft and scams, your customers will expect you to handle their personal information securely. As a business, you will be required to comply with the obligations set out in the federal Privacy Act 1988. Watch out, as there are some serious consequences if you breach this law including reputational damage and fines. Ts&Cs will help you set out to your customers what you will use their information for, and how you will protect it.

This in turn will help you avoid a breach. That is another box ticked!

So, what next?

If you want to make sure you and your business are protected by having a standard set of Ts&Cs specific to your business needs, or if you already have some in place but are not sure if they are up to scratch, give the team at Pacific Maritime Lawyers a call on 1300 797 627, and we will be very happy to help you out.

Pacific Maritime Lawyers Pty Ltd is a multi-disciplinary professional practice offering specialist maritime legal and consulting services. Owned and operated

by Master Mariners and Lawyers, with formal audit, business, and legal qualifications. Pacific Maritime has extensive experience in project and asset management, maritime incident investigation and support, maritime compliance, audits, risk assessments, commercial dispute resolution, negotiations, due diligence and business management. www.pacificmaritimelawyers.com.au

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BOAT GUIDE JOURNEY

Help to protect the

GREAT BARRIER REEF W

hether you’re visiting in your own boat, hiring a vessel, or doing a charter; the Great Barrier Reef is a spectacular place to visit. With more than 2,900 reefs and 1,050 islands, there’s so much to see, do and enjoy.

But while you’re having fun and immersing yourself in this natural wonderland, make sure you know the rules and take some simple steps to keep yourself safe and protect this iconic World Heritage Area.

KNOW YOUR ZONES Marine Park zoning is an important component in managing marine areas. The Great Barrier Reef Marine Park is a multiple-use area and has different activities allowed in different ‘zones’. Zoning helps to manage and protect the World Heritage Area.

No-take green zones (also known as Marine National Parks) directly contribute to replenishing fish stocks and building the Reef’s resilience, which is why it is really important visitors are aware of the rules. For example, green zones are 'no-take' areas, so activities like fishing or collecting (for example, marine life, shells) are not allowed and can attract a fine of $2,100; while Conservation Park (yellow) zones allow for limited extractive use. In these zones, fishing is limited to one line and one hook, and trolling has a maximum of three lines and six hooks.

There are also zones with strict no-entry rules like Preservation (pink) zones, and some Scientific Research (orange) zones. The best way to make sure you are well informed is to get a free zoning map from a bait and tackle shop or visitor information centre (also available at www.gbrmpa.gov.au), or download

the free Eye on the Reef app, which shows zoning.

The app is available from the Google Play or App Store, and the zoning layer continues to work when you are out of mobile range.

YACHTIES — DON’T SET AND FORGET Sometimes yachties can simply set a troll line and get underway, forgetting to remove and securely stow the line as they sail into a no-take green zone. Before you depart, make sure you plan where you are going and check what is allowed in each zone along the way.

BE THE REEF’S EYES AND EARS All marine parks visitors have a valuable role to play in protecting the Reef by reporting any suspected illegal activities they see, including poaching from no-take green zones. This helps the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority and its partners to protect the Reef at a time when it faces increased vulnerability.

Reports can be made anonymously by calling the free 24-hour hotline number on 1800 380 048, or by making a report on the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority’s website at www.gbrmpa.gov.au/report-anincident.

You will need to provide a few simple details, such as vessel identity, what they are doing, when and where; even if it’s the nearest landmark. And, if possible, taking a photo on your phone or camera is helpful, and including it with your upload to the app or report.

USE A FREE PUBLIC MOORING

Eye on the Reef app

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While the Great Barrier Reef offers visitors stunning vistas – both above and below the water — it also contains some very fragile environments that can take seconds to destroy by dropping your anchor over coral reefs.

Photo by multihullsolutions.com.au

Maps of public mooring locations and their GPS coordinates are available at http://www.gbrmpa. gov.au/access-and-use/responsible-reef-practices/ anchoring-and-mooring.

BE MINDFUL OF MARINE ANIMALS If you see any sick, dead or stranded marine animals like turtles, whales, dolphins or dugong, report them to the free hotline 1300 130 372.

The Great Barrier Reef is a vitally important habitat for about 30 species of whales and dolphins and they are a spectacular sight. Please keep an eye out when you are transiting, particularly during humpback whale migration season (May to September).

There are more than 270 public moorings from Lady Elliot Island in the south to Lizard Island in the north that are free to use. The blue beehive shaped buoys attached to the moorings have a colour-coded band explaining the class (vessel length), time limits and maximum wind strength limits applying to the mooring.

All public moorings are available for overnight use.

If you do encounter a whale or dolphin, remember to respect the approach distances — this is for everyone’s safety. There is detailed information at http://www. gbrmpa.gov.au/access-and-use/responsible-reefpractices/caring-for-the-reef, but the key points to remember are: you cannot restrict the path of these marine mammals, you must stay 100 metres away (300 metres if you are in the Whitsundays), and – if the animal approaches you – disengage the gears and do not change course suddenly.

Keep an eye out for Reef protection markers — these indicate no-anchoring areas and are identified by their white pyramid-shaped buoys with a blue label. However, do not use these as a mooring (penalties apply).

Also, make sure you are ‘Reef Smart’ by ensuring you do not throw food scraps overboard, or feed the fish or other marine animals. ‘Be Reef Smart’ information is available from this link: http://bit.ly/2OCx5S3

JAN - MARCH 2020

BOAT JOURNEY

Photo by multihullsolutions.com.au

TAKE CARE OF OUR ISLANDS If you are planning to step ashore some of the pictureperfect islands of the World Heritage Area, make sure you are not carrying any stowaways with you. The Great Barrier Reef’s islands are among the most pestfree in the world and they need to remain that way.

Please visit www.qld.gov.au and search for ‘Be Pest Free’ before your visit.

If you are going to camp on one of the island national parks, you will need to book your site and purchase a permit in advance. School holiday periods often book out quickly and visitor numbers are limited to ensure a quality island experience. Book via www.qld.gov.au/ camping or call 13 QGOV (13 74 68).

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Remember domestic animals, open fires and generators are not permitted on island national parks.

Also, protect the areas and yourself by staying on marked tracks, carrying plenty of water, and taking all rubbish off islands and disposing of it thoughtfully.

BECOME A REEF CHAMPION Share the highlights from your trip using the hashtag #LovetheReef, and follow the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority’s social channels @GreatBarrierReefMarinePark and Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service at @qldnationalparks.

You can also download and share materials from the Reef champion’s pack, which has information about how you can help to protect the part of the Reef you are visiting: www.gbrmpa.gov.au

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BOAT GALLEY

Green Mango Salad

Photos by Juliet Cameron

WITH PANFRIED BREAM

Southeast Asian seafood delights by Chef WOODY ZEN who shares exciting seafood recipes for you to experience authentic homemade Thai dishes.

Green Mango Salad is hot, sweet and sour with an amazing texture that will complement any seafood pan-fried or grilled. Here, it pairs perfectly with locally caught bream fish.

Hi, I’m Woody Zen. Originally from Thailand, I have been cheffing up a storm in some of your favourite Gold Coast Asian-inspired restaurants for over 10 years now. If I could give you a super quick tip to make any seafood taste amazing with limited ingredients, I would say a ratio of 1:1 lime and fish sauce, and a sprinkle of chilli. Here is a more glorified version using Green Mango.

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Ingredients: 1 green mango, julienned into thin strips (sour mango is best) 1 carrot, julienned into thin strips 2 spring onions, sliced thinly ½ red onion, sliced thinly 1-2 birds-eye chilli sliced thinly (depending on your spice threshold)

Put julienned green mango and carrot strips, spring onions, red and green chillies, cherry tomatoes, and red onion into a bowl.

Carefully mix together and set aside.

1 long green chilli, sliced thinly

Prepare the salad dressing by combining sugar, fish sauce and lime in a bowl. Set aside.

1 tablespoon of sugar

Take the bream fish and carefully fillet each side. Remove any small bones and cut fillets into 2-inch strips. Dust fillets (and fish frame optional, good for getting any last bits of flesh and for amazing presentation) with corn flour.

5 small cherry tomatoes, halved 2 tablespoons of lime/lemon juice 2 tablespoons of fish sauce 2 freshly caught bream fish, gutted and scaled (or any seafood) corn flour for dusting fish 4 tablespoons of oil for shallow frying mint for garnish JANMAY - MARCH - AUG 2020 2017

Come on over…

…and create new memories Something very special is happening right now at Couran Cove Island Resort.

Bring the family and play for the day…or stay for a week.

Relax | Recharge | Reconnect | Celebrate We are proud to share this exciting journey with you.

South Stradbroke Island, Gold Coast, Australia | Phone: +61 7 5597 9999 Fax: +61 7 5597 9989 | Reservations@courancove.com.au | CouranCove.com.au BOATGOLDCOAST.COM. AU

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BOAT JOURNEY

THE WORLD - FAMOUS GUTTER BAR AT KOORINGAL MORETON ISLAND

By Chris Logan Most Gutter Bar patrons reach the venue by water or road. The former are either boaties or jet ski operators with the bar as their destination, while the latter are four-wheel drivers or campers taking a trip around Moreton Island. A small number of patrons access Moreton Island through the helipad at Kooringal.

Despite its relatively secluded location, the venue gets repeat business among travellers who frequent the island and is something of an institution among the boating community and tourists. Kath, with husband Peter, has held the keys for the past seven years. The Gutter Bar has existed in some form for up to 35 years. “The Gutter Bar started as a little general store – which still exists – and it developed from there. Tourists and drivers like to travel around the island. It’s convenient for boaties to land at a sheltered spot like Kooringal, so there was an obvious desire for a place to eat and a watering hole,” says Kath. “That’s how the Gutter Bar came to be. It has evolved as it has changed hands over the years, and its owners have tried different approaches. We believe we have developed an approach that encourages people to return.”

T

he third largest sand island in the world, Moreton Island, is an unspoiled paradise that changes only fractionally. A huge 95 per cent of the island is a protected national park. Every year, travellers from around the world come to explore this natural wonder via four-wheel driving, boating or camping.

Best yet, the island is just 37 kilometres from Brisbane City. If it is not on your to-do list for a weekend sojourn at least once this year, then it should be!

In 2017, Moreton Island appeared in a blog entry from global travel website Expedia, entitled 15 Most Spectacular Places to Give You Wanderlust. In the list, this island rubbed shoulders with traditional tourism heavyweights like Paris, Phuket, Hong Kong, London and the flavour of the present, Tokyo. Expedia highlighted the island’s calm lagoons, champagne pools and striking lighthouse.

Among the superlatives is a mention of a location called the Gutter Bar, an establishment on the southernmost tip of the island, in the quiet town of Kooringal. It was the Gutter Bar’s metaphorical moment in the sun.

The Gutter Bar’s owner sees the premises as a traditional beach bar and restaurant – the laidback type of venue that has slowly disappeared from the coastlines of South East Queensland in past decades. “It’s located right on the beach, which is rare these days,” Kath says. “It’s the kind of place where you can just walk up. If you don’t have shoes on or you are wearing thongs, or if you are a gent without a shirt, it’s no worry.”

It is this casual environment that previous visitors identify as the venue’s vibe. Kath and Peter have endeavoured to give it an easy-going, island feel.

“We have spent time travelling the Asia Pacific and visited some incredible beach bars along the way, and we have used elements of these for the Gutter Bar,” Kath explains. “It’s designed to have a tropical feel about it and our decorations give it an Australian flavour too. The bar is rustic. It has long wooden tables and bench seats. There’s a fireplace set in a corrugated iron enclosure, and there are maritime pieces including anchors, buoys, floats and even a historic boat out the front.”

Well, there was another. A small group of Hollywood celebrities exploring Moreton Island also paid the bar a visit not too long ago. “We were happy to recently welcome Matt Damon and his family,” says Kath Smith, owner of the Gutter Bar. “Our bar has an easy-going environment and all our patrons were completely comfortable – nobody flocked for autographs or crowded around them. There was just the occasional selfie with them in the background. It was great to see them able to relax and enjoy Moreton Island.”

It is not just Expedia and Hollywood celebrities who believe the premises are worth a visit. On TripAdvisor, considered one of the leading travel review websites, the Gutter Bar has an enviable four-and-a-half star rating. Many TripAdvisor reviewers recommend it during a visit to Moreton Island, and congratulate it for its fresh food, the friendliness of its staff, its Australian feel and its incredible location.

So what is special about the world-famous Gutter Bar? “One of the Gutter Bar’s main features is that it is beautifully positioned right on the beach,” explains Kath. “It takes its name from Days Gutter [which is the channel northwest of Kooringal]. One of its key advantages is that the bay is one of the safest on Moreton Island – a place where boats can take shelter. People bring their boats and jet skis. We have seen craft up to 70 feet in size stop here.”

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Riviera boats at Kooringal during the R Marine Jones Experience

JAN - MARCH 2020

BOAT JOURNEY

Riviera boats at Kooringal during the R MArine Jones Experience

They have also made the menu a prime focus. After all, that is the reason people come to a restaurant. “Our most popular meals are our freshly sourced seafood,” says Kath. “We offer fresh oysters, prawns, and fish and chips – the classics you really appreciate after a day out on the water. We are in the position to be able to source our oysters from local producers, and our prawns come from the island’s local trawlers. Fresh seafood is a huge drawcard for us, and we often get comments from customers about how excellent it is.”

The establishment also offers flathead, whiting and calamari, although you can get the lot on the hot and cold seafood platter, which Kath highly recommends. However, if you are one of those people who would go to an oceanfront restaurant and order the beef, you should try the Gutter Bar’s mouth-watering rib fillet or T-bone steak for dinner. Veal schnitzel and chicken parmigiana are also on offer, and a range of burgers is available for both lunch and dinner.

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With the ability to seat up to 100 people, there is always room for driving, boating or flying visitors to the Gutter Bar. The bar has served as a venue for corporate functions, although they are selective about what they accept so that they can maintain that welcoming, laidback ambience for their usual customers.

Kath says, that with summer coming, it is a great time to visit Moreton Island. “The temperature is perfect for a swim and the water is crystal clear and inviting. This part of South East Queensland is unique because it’s protected and pristine. Summer is also oyster season so we will be offering incredible fresh oysters to people stopping by.”

The Gutter Bar is situated on 21 Kooringal Esplanade in Kooringal, which is near the southernmost point of Moreton Island. It is open seven days a week – from 9.30am to 4.30pm on Sundays to Thursdays, and 9.30am to 6pm on Fridays and Saturdays. For bookings outside those hours, make sure you contact them on (07) 3409 0170.

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BOAT LIFESTYLE

DOGS WHO SAIL from landlubber to salty sea dog

By Tanya Rabe

So began Dogs Who Sail, starting out as a Facebook group devoted to our furry crew members. Today, we are a 1,400-strong community of dogs on boats from all over the world providing consultation and support for furry crew members onboard.

Everyday, a new member joins us with a unique story; this is the heart of Dogs Who Sail. Dogs certainly share similarities in their behaviours.

However, our four-legged friends have their own individual personalities, and how your dog adapts to boating life depends a lot on how they respond to you.

For this reason, Dogs Who Sail does not focus on Maxy and Mel’s experiences alone. I share our stories, what has worked for us and what has not. But I also interview dog owners from all over the world, on different types of boats with different breeds of dogs, so people can learn from a plethora of experiences rather than one perfect or imperfect scenario.

T

he story of Dogs Who Sail started out as two cocker spaniels from Moreton Bay, sailing over the weekend on our 34-foot Duncanson.

Maxy, as black as midnight on a new moon, was the wise and noble one, and his younger sister Mel was a blonde bombshell, also known to us as Marilyn and always up to mischief.

We have since upgraded to a 50-foot Passport, a Stan Huntington-designed cutter rig built in Taiwan in the mid 80’s. Tanua is a beautiful bluewater cruiser with my favourite feature being the centre cockpit allowing for a spacious aft cabin and fitted throughout with stunning Burmese teak.

We half-heartedly joke that we upgraded to a more luxurious dog kennel because Maxy and Mel needed more space and comfort when we were to become permanent liveaboards. Oh the things we do for our dogs!

I can say with certainty that Mel was not fond of sailing. She was there because we were, and so was the food. Maxy, on the other hand, was an adaptable fellow, as long as he had a long view perched higher than the rest of us mere mortals, he was happy anywhere.

As an overprotective dog mother who overanalyses everything, I decided to document what it meant to have a dog onboard. I was like a dog with a bone (bad pun intended), researching what little information there was on the internet at the time and interviewing other parents of dogs on boats as well as taking into consideration our own trials, errors and successes. I knew I had to share all of this intelligence combined with other boating dog parents.

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The dogs that connect with us range from those who are boating for a few leisurely hours on a weekend to others who are circumnavigating the world. Surprisingly, there are quite a significant number of the latter. The original owners of our boat circumnavigated with a cocker spaniel onboard.

Remarkably, Lady was an outdoor dog. She had a dog kennel in the centre cockpit and she lived on the decks. God forbid if I had relegated Maxy and Mel to the cockpit from the comfy latex mattress and fluffy doona covering the bed in the aft cabin. Guaranteed mutiny!

One of our members, Dora, lives in Boston, Massachusetts with her sailing mother aboard their liveaboard 36.5-foot Beneteau Oceanis. Pauline is visually impaired and Dora is her seeing-eye dog. More than that, they also race in sailing regattas. This dynamic duo shares a trusting partnership, possibly more so than some human-to-human relationships. Without each other, they would not be having the sailing and liveaboard experience they are having now.

Maxy and Mel, Lady and Dora and everyone else who contacts us start out their boating journey with a dog onboard having lots of questions. Dogs cannot speak for themselves and as doggie parents we want to ensure our dogs are safe and comfortable.

If you would like to join our Dogs Who Sail community, look for our Closed Group on Facebook. Alternatively, you can go to www.dogswhosail.com for regular posts about dogs on boats.

JAN - MARCH 2020

BOAT LIFESTYLE

PREPARING YOUR DOG FOR THE BLUE WATER To save your furry crew member and yourself stress, set your dog up properly before you venture out into the bay or blue water. Here are some of the most important things to do to prepare your dog for boating life. ● Prior to introducing your dog to your boat, head to Bunnings and buy a 1m x 1m tile of fake grass, also known as astro turf. Set this up at home in a place where your dog pees regularly so they saturate the mat with their urine. Yes, you are going to have to transport the mat to your boat at some point but hold your breath, put the windows down and suck it up as this may be the best prop for your dog to go to the toilet on the boat. ● Bring something to the boat that is familiar to your doggy, and they associate joy and comfort with. This could be toys, balls, a bed or blanket. A bag full of treats will also go down well. ● Invest in a life jacket. Some of you may think I am being overly cautious, but the number of dogs that fall overboard is surprisingly high.

If I have a child onboard, they will have a lifejacket on. My dogs are my family, and so the same rule applies to them. ● Before you head out through the leads spend a few weekends acquainting your dog with the boat. The first visit may just be a familiarisation with the inside and outside of the vessel. Let them get used to the smells and how to move around the layout. After a couple of these visits, you may want to start the motor. No need to go anywhere, just let Fido get used to the sound. The next step is to get the boat moving. ● Keep your anxiety and frustrations in check. Your dog is so in tune with you.

Remember, your dog is not choosing this lifestyle. The least you can do is ensure you make their transition from landlubber to salty sea dog as smooth as possible. If you can clearly see that your dog is not adjusting to the boat, leave them at home or with a doggy sitter. They will be more content and so will you.

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BOAT SPORTS

Local Up-and-Coming Jet Ski

CHAMPION BROTHERS

By Sonia Wilkinson

W

ith 260km of passable waterways and 57km of some of the best coastlines in the world, the Gold Coast really is a paradise for those wanting to pursue a sport in jet skiing. Local brothers, Jake and Cooper Beekman, have truly embraced their locality.

These up and coming jet ski champions, aged only 14 and 18, frequently compete in Watercross Championships across Queensland and interstate. Between training at their local private dam, you will often find these talented adventurers racing their stand-up Superjets in many a competition across Queensland, interstate and soon to be overseas.

Jake and Cooper have long been fans of water sports after growing up by the pristine waterways in Jacobs Well, a boating and fishing enthusiast’s haven. Jake says, “I have always grown up on and around the water since a young age. I have done many water sport activities, but nothing caught my attention more than jet skiing. I had always wanted a jet ski. It was just something about them that got me excited – probably the two-stroke smell!”

This love of water sport runs in the family, with Dad Charlie also competing in jet ski competitions at a younger age. As the saying goes, “Like Father, like son.”

Jake’s first jet ski was a 2012 Yamaha Superjet, a high performance, stand-up jet ski, which younger brother, Cooper, still rides to this day. The boys both prefer the challenge of riding a stand-up jet ski to a sit-down model; hence, needing to demonstrate more balance and finesse due to the nature of manoeuvring a long handle pole while balancing standing up.

“By the time I got my first jet ski, I was just shy of 16 years old,” says Jake. “I definitely prefer a stand up jet ski as it’s a lot more challenging to ride. Anyone can ride a sit-down.’

Cooper agrees. “I definitely prefer a stand-up jet ski because you need to practice to become really good and it is a challenge.”

In the last couple of years, these talented brothers have scored highly in a succession of competitions. Earlier this year at the Queensland Personal Watercraft Club (QPWC) Summer Series round 2 in Redcliffe, Jake won first place at the PRO AM LTD Ski, and second place in the AM 1500 Lites Ski Circuit. Jake also came second place in the PRO/AM Ski Modified at the 2019 Lake Macquarie Big Weekend PWC Race Series in Newcastle where he competed against some of Australia’s highest performing PWC racers. “The feeling of winning is what gets me excited again and again,” says Jake.

Cooper is also currently the two-time Junior Champion in Queensland after winning first place in the QPWC Summer Series Round 2 in Juniors for two years in a row – a great achievement, with a total of 60 round points and 120 series points. “I love the adrenaline I get from jet skiing,’ says Cooper. “I completely change when I am racing and don’t worry about the fear. I just enjoy the moment.”

But it is not all about the competition and winning for the brothers. The social aspect of jet skiing has been a huge plus for Jake and Cooper, who have made many friends from the sport, not only in Queensland but also interstate. Jake and Cooper both agree that making friends is one of their favourite things about jet skiing together with “the feeling of winning, going fast and competing”.

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BOAT SPORTS

Jake Cooper

“It is a great sport that encourages comradery between the different states,” says supportive Mum, Belinda. “Although it is a competition, the kids meet some great people and make long-lasting friendships from this.”

As racing is only for six months of the year, Jake and Cooper still have plenty of time to be teenagers. Cooper spends his spare time not only jet skiing, but also engaging in a variety of other adventurous water sports including tubing, wakeboarding and knee boarding. “I like adventure and trying new things,” declares Cooper.

Jake spends most of his time around competition, studying and learning to fly to become a pilot at the Australian Wings Academy. To keep up his fitness, he trains four nights a week at his local gym and follows a healthy diet. “I also enjoy making videos and taking photos,” adds Jake.

Jake and Cooper’s parents play a big part in their success. “We take them to a private dam for training quite frequently and they train when time permits,” explains Belinda.

“It can be quite an expensive sport with travelling interstate and locally, mechanical aspects, time and fuel costs, but of course it all makes it worthwhile when you see how much enjoyment they get from it.”

Cooper has also battled with an autoimmune condition, which requires ongoing support from his parents. “Cooper has been a type-1 diabetic since he was 18 months old, so we are constantly monitoring his diet, exercise and blood sugar. It is ongoing,” discloses Belinda, who together with Charlie, is very proud of Cooper’s success in not letting the diabetes stop him from pursuing his dreams.

Safety is also a priority for this family. “They wear back braces and helmets,” says Belinda.

“Of course, there is danger in the sport, but it goes with any sport. You just have to make sure that it is always safety-first, and hope for the best.”

Jake is looking forward to continuing to race in Australia and competing overseas. He is currently training for the next big surf race in Mudjimba on 20 October. Cooper is currently working towards winning first place for a third time in the Queensland Junior Championships QPWC Summer Series next season, making him a three-time Junior Champion. His longterm goals are to win an Australian Title and follow Jake’s footsteps in competing overseas.

(You can follow Jake’s jet skiing adventures on Instagram @jake_beekman.)

Good luck boys! You make us Queenslanders proud!

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BOAT GUIDE JOURNEY SPORTS

ACCELERATING RACING

TECHNOLOGY Story by Paul Wilson

L

eading Australian luxury motor yacht manufacturer Maritimo is unique within the boating industry being the only major luxury motor yacht builder in the world with a dedicated racing division within the company.

In a highly competitive world where automotive brands are constantly fighting for glory on the race track and the ripple effect of sales success for brands that are seen to lead the industry results, Maritimo stands alone in the marine sector. "Maritimo Racing sets us apart and as one of the only manufacturers to gain the technological benefits derived from racing experience, advancing our vessels to new levels in engineering and performance," says Maritimo designer and race team representative, Tom Barry-Cotter. "Like the leading automotive brands involved in sports like Formula One, racing culture flows through Maritimo in everything we do. We have a competitive culture fixated on finding the next edge over our competition, staunchly opposed to complacency, with the knowledge that when your product is not evolving, it leaves you exposed to being caught from behind."

Maritimo Racing division is integral within design and engineering processes within the company's production. The experience gained through racing is valuable to staff, and infuses a competitive mindset throughout all facets of the company. "Maritimo Racing has just commissioned a new apprentice program, where Maritimo’s factory apprentices are provided with the opportunity to experience the workings and operation of the Maritimo Racing team at championship races throughout the year," says Barry-Cotter. "Attention to detail, where even the smallest gain remains a goal and adds to our overall competitiveness sets us apart. There are expectations that our product performance is elite, so every member of our brand feels that responsibility.

The best performing machine means nothing without reliability and durability, and to be successful, reliability and toughness must be methodical."

Maritimo Racing forms one of the important testing and development platforms for every Maritimo cruiser that is produced. Experience attained through the trialling of latest lamination techniques, bonding methods, and engineering components means greater reliability and toughness in every Maritimo, as every aspect of each vessel's construction and setup are race proven

before ever reaching a production model. Barry-Cotter says, that forces involved with powerboat racing are difficult to fathom, where a light weight composite hull must endure constant impacting into waves at speeds in excess of 240kph over season after season. "The art of weight reduction whilst maintaining laminate strength is critical in the construction of Maritimo Racing’s hulls, like the latest R30 XCAT, which has heralded both aesthetic and structural benefits to the next generation of Maritimo’s. Weight is so critical in the advanced design and construction of an XCAT catamaran that even the excess weight of fairing compound and paint is taken into consideration.

Various laminate schedules are tested for deflection and strength, followed by a review of the amount of fairing compound that is required to fill the laminate shrinkage to achieve a perfected smooth paint finish."

Maritimo Racing ultimately developed a laminate schedule that withstood the stresses and forces for powerboat racing, but also did not absorb unnecessary weight with excess paint, generating a superior laminate finish. Methods that increased the laminate finish quality are now being applied to the Maritmo range.

In any motorsport the importance of weight distribution and balance are amplified, according to Barry-Cotter.

"Weight distribution and balance is critical to any vessel in extracting performance and handling advantages.

Balance and center of gravity are so critical for Maritimo Racing that ballast movements of 0.25% of the total boat weight are enough to affect the boat’s performance and handling characteristics. Similarly, the importance Maritimo place on balance and weight distribution of all models in the design phase is critical to ensure the brand remains the performance benchmark of the industry."

Maritimo is renowned for its straight shaft technology with optimized shaft angles and neutral weight distribution. In order that varying liquid loads do not upset critical balance characteristics, all Maritimo models have water tanks and fuel tanks arranged in a ‘wing tank’ configuration, locating the varying liquid loads as close to the centre of buoyancy as possible.

Optimized balance extracts more performance, range and fuel economy, whilst improving drivability in terms of transitioning onto plane, and turning. Drivability and handling can also be felt through responsiveness.

All Maritimo models are equipped with a Maritimo Racing technology hydraulic power steering system.

The system increases the responsiveness at the wheel for an enhanced driving experience. The championship classes that Maritimo Racing compete in, all have engine specification limitations, and constant modifications to hulls can be costly when looking to find an edge.

An area where Maritimo exerts its racing knowledge and procedures to performance enhancement in both racing and throughout the model range is in the art and science of propellers. "Propeller efficiency is critical to maximizing the transfer of power from a boat’s engines to propelling a vessel along the water, whether it be at 240kph (130 knots) or 60kph (33 knots).”

Maritimo Racing Ross Willaton’s wealth of knowledge with nearly 50 years of racing experience has earned him the role of developing propeller specifications and testing procedures for every new Maritimo model. Developing the right propeller for a hull is part science and part art, but experience conquers all, he said. "A perfected propeller setup will generate greater efficiency with reduced cavitation and slip, whilst also generating less vibration with a more comfortable driving experience. Maritimo Racing has a library of almost 60 propeller sets, all with slight variations in their specification, so there is almost a propeller for any setup combination. Maritimo uses a similar strategy in the testing and development of new propellers for new models, where many combinations can be tested in order to extract maximum efficiency."

Barry-Cotter said the experience and knowledge gained on the international race circuit was invaluable and helped set the Maritimo product range apart from competitors around the world.

Tom Barry-Cotter and Ross Willaton, Maritimo Racing XCAT ShanghaiGP2019

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JAN - MARCH 2020

BOAT GOLD COAST

Safety Certificate FOR TRAILERS

T

railers can travel on highways up to speeds of 110kph. Therefore, just as with the vehicles that tow them, it is imperative that trailers also required safety certificates in Queensland.

A safety certificate certifies that a vehicle meets the safety requirements of the Transport Operations (Road Use Management) Act 1995.

In Queensland, a safety certificate is needed when:

● a registered light vehicle is offered for sale in

Queensland, or ● transferring registration to a new owner, or ● when transferring to Queensland registration from another state or territory, or ● when re-registering an unregistered vehicle, or ● when registering a trailer manufactured overseas.

Therefore, if you have sold your boat and the sale includes a registered or unregistered trailer, with an aggregate trailer mass (ATM) between 750kg and 3500 kg, you must obtain a safety certificate on the trailer before offering for sale.

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BOATGOLDCOAST.COM. AU

components are operational, and to ensure the vehicle’s electrical system, is secured and operating correctly.

● Verify the trailers VIN plate. ● All tow couplings and associated components are

in a serviceable condition and that they provide the necessary load carrying capacity.

A safety inspection on a trailer covers the basic vehicle safety standards for many components, including:

● Suspension is in good working order Vehicles, including trailers built from 1969 for the Australian market, are designed to meet specific design requirements, most of which provide safety standards for the vehicle, its driver, and other vulnerable road users. These requirements are set out in Australian Design Rules (ADRs) and are not easily checked without extensive test facilities. AIS are not expected to conduct highly complex or destructive tests, but they are required to check some in-service aspects of ADR requirements. For instance, examiners should make sure that the required ADR systems are present, are not obviously modified, and that they are sound and functional.

● Wheels and tyres are of a suitable type and condition and they provide the necessary load carrying capacity, speed rating and control of the vehicle.

There are some exceptions to the rules of obtaining a safety certificate, so it is best to check with the TMR if you fall under one of the following categories:

● The brakes operate effectively and are correctly adjusted. ● The trailer frame is structurally sound and free from

● the disposer is in an exempt or remote area; ● a beneficiary of a deceased estate; or, ● between spouses (including separated registered

Only Approved Inspection Stations (AIS) can complete the inspection and supply a supporting safety certificate. An AIS location must have fully trade-qualified mechanics onsite with vast experience in vehicle repairs and maintenance. Individual mechanics, the facility, and the business undergo strict protocol to be recognised as an AIS. Swiftco Trailers on the Gold Coast are a Department of Transport and Main Roads (TMR) registered AIS, and can usually provide same-day service.

any defects, protrusions or additional fittings that are likely to increase the risk of bodily injury to any person in tow or other road users.

● All lamps, reflectors and other electrical lighting

partners – until such time that the divorce or application to end the registered relationship is finalised). www.swiftcotrailers.com

14/02/2019 1:49:19 PM

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Photos by Media Booth and EMB Photographics

BOAT GUIDE SPORTS

Story by Narayan Pattison

By Andy Kancachian

Race preparation

Hayden Wyld driving Dynamic Racing

T

he Australian Offshore Superboat Club Inc. (OSC) runs races consisting of three classes: Supercat Extreme, Supercat 1000hp, and Supercat Outboard 600hp. The races are held at various locations along the east coast of Australia with the teams racing for national titles. Exhilarating Superboat racing with boats exceeding 150mph are held close to the shoreline to enable spectator viewing.

Supercat Extreme is arguably Australia’s most intense racing class, with the boats belting across choppy bays at 200kph. The engines are capped at specific capacity and rev limits, to help avoid all the injuries and damaged boats that were common occurrences in earlier years.

The Maritimo team had been dominating the Extreme class for 20 years. However, things have changed, when on the 1st December 2019, Hayden Wyld and Andy Smith we crowned first place champions in the Supercat Extreme class - a feat they have pulled off in their very first season together.

Ironically enough, Dynamic Racing, the boat with which Hayden and Andy recently beat the Maritimo team, is actually an ex-Maritimo boat itself.

“Dynamic is a bigger boat, at 42-feet, so it performs better than a lot of others in rougher water because of the length and weight. Maritimo’s current boat is only 36-feet, so it can corner and accelerate faster, but if the conditions are rough Dynamic is a faster boat. And choppy conditions are certainly common in shallow bays like Harvey Bay.” COMMON PASSION FOR RACING Both Hayden and Andy have come from a water ski racing background, with a string of wins under their belts. Hayden started racing when he was just 12 years-old. He spent a lot of time with his father Tom Wyld, who won the first Pacific 1000 endurance race from Cairns to Southport.

Hayden’s uncle, Kevin Wyld, was also a two-time world champion in offshore powerboat racing.

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Hayden found that his passion was water ski racing, and won many Australian titles during his career. Hayden said he was drawn to water ski racing because of the competition, “It’s just so big. We were getting between 300 to 400 boats at each event. It was so competitive. I loved it!”

Andy has been involved in water ski racing for a long time as well. In 2018, Andy entered the outboard Supercat class and won the season in his very first year in it.

Hayden explained how he got into the Supercats.

“Andy and I were both a bit bored and missing the fun we had enjoyed in water ski racing. Andy came to me and said he wanted to race Supercat Extreme. He wanted my help to drive for him. It was an opportunity I couldn’t pass up.”

RACING TOGETHER One of the key challenges in Supercat racing is that two people are simultaneously controlling the boat. Hayden steers and navigates the boat while Andy is the throttleman, controlling the speed and monitoring the engine data. As one can expect, splitting the control of the boat between two people only works if they know each other’s racing style and can anticipate what they are going to do.

Hayden and Andy after a race win

Even though both Hayden and Andy have intercoms for communicating with each other, they have been getting better and better at learning and anticipating each other’s driving style, as their first season has progressed. “A lot of the time now we don’t even have to talk. When I’m turning, he’s off the throttle and back on it before I know. The more races we do the better we’re getting at it,” Hayden explained.

Andy and Hayden’s first year in the class has been a short one, with only nine races being held so far. The Supercats had met at three locations so far, and held three races at each one over a weekend. More meetings were planned but were not able to be cemented with local councils. The most recent meeting was in Lake Macquarie, where Andy and Hayden had their first outright wins. And with 40,000 people around the lake watching it, they certainly had a good audience.

“We’ve been running consistently seconds and thirds all year. Lake Macquarie was our first outright win, and we won two of the races. But even before our wins, we were actually leading the championship because we’ve been running so consistently. We’ve been getting more and more competitive throughout the season as we get more experienced together, and keep making little tweaks to the boat’s performance.

Those things are all adding up.”

As for the future, Hayden is certainly happy racing and running his boat-sales business, Wyld about Boats, but there are still a few things left on the bucket list. He would love to win the coveted ‘Aus 1’ racing title, and to see the Supercats racing around the Gold Coast’s Broadwater.

“We’re hoping to have it in the circuit next year.

There are plans underway, we just need to find the right location that’s in front of crowds.” www.facebook.com/dynamicracing128 JAN - MARCH 2020

BOAT LIFTS & DOCKS

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Powerful hydraulics pull the foam-filled polyethylene floats under the boat in as little as 30 seconds, with the simple press of a remote control.

In the raised position, the virtually unsinkable floats are automatically secured with patented GravityLock™. The floats also make it easy to access your hull and prop for cleaning and maintenance.

Simply tie the FloatLift™ to most places you can tie your boat: slips, side-ties, or even a mooring buoy. The DC system can be charged using either the solar or AC powered options. The standard rear guides and remote control make docking incredibly easy.

The FloatLift™ is designed for fresh or salt water, with an aluminium frame, stainless steel hardware, marine-grade hydraulic cylinders with stainless shafts, and marine-grade hoses. The rubber-capped SuperBunks™ are not only durable, but provide the ultimate in cushioned support for your hull.

The Sunstream FloatLift™ is very versatile, and is an ideal option for boats requiring a lift in shallow water while offering extra protection from a passing boat’s high wash. The FloatLift™ can be combined with the SwiftShield™ Semi-Automatic Boat Cover System for ultimate docking convenience.

Sunstream are the largest portable boatlift and hoist manufacturer, with an expansive product range that caters for vessels up to 10,800kg.

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BOAT SPORTS

‘RAMPAIGE’ to Barefoot Glory BRENDAN PAIGE PROFESSIONAL BAREFOOT WATERSKIIER

By Lowen Taylor the ripe old age of four, Brendan Paige discovered waterskiing when his dad A tbought a boat to give his family the opportunity to spend time together outdoors.

Instantly hooked, Brendan loved the continued progression of learning to ski on double skis, then quickly dropping to a single ski. Living in Cairns at the time, it was a great escape from the Northern Queensland heat. Brendan and his five siblings spent countless wonderful hours on the water, skiing, tricking and pushing each others limits.

One day, a friend of Brendan’s father joined them on the water and gave him his first insight into the world of barefoot skiing. While highly impressed, Brendan had one attempt and then did not think too much more about foot skiing for a while, preferring to hone his skills on double and single skis.

A trip to the Gold Coast’s Seaworld when he was 16 years old, however, reignited that initial fascination with barefoot skiing, as he watched a performer foot ski backwards around the lake. He knew then that this was where he wanted to make the next progression in his sport, his next thing to master. It was a turning point in his focus and he began diligently training four to six times per week after school on the river with his father.

In October of 2007, Brendan entered his first ever barefoot competition. He was psyched to compete against his mates and fellow skiers in the area as this was a local competition. He came last. Undeterred, Brendan continued to train and finetune his skills. Just shy of one year later, he won his first competition at a national level. The focused intention had paid off and his desire to compete at a top level burned even more strongly. Upping the training even further, Brendan used the inspiration of his first win to drive his focus and push further.

Since his first win in 2008, Brendan now holds a plethora of titles. He is the current (and seven-time) Queensland Ski Champion. In 2014, he came second in the Barefoot World Titles - Trick category. 2017 proved to be an awesome year of competition as he took out the Australian Record for Men’s Trick, ranked second in the World for Men’s Trick, and was crowned Overall Champion for US National X Games.

Currently, the Australian Champion after being named the Overall Champion in the Footski Nationals earlier this year. This was a huge boost to his career and a definite highlight in achievements so far. “Trick has always been my event, so to take the title in all three is a huge accomplishment for me,” says Brendan. (Nationals consist of three events — Trick, Jump and Slalom.) Brendan’s next goal is to claim the world record for Tricks. A solid plan to take out the Bi-Annual FootSki World Titles, being held soon in Sydney, is on top of Brendan’s to-do list.

Sponsored by Rubber Jungle Wetsuits and Vessel Corp, Brendan’s professional career has taken him all over the world, competing in America, Canada, New Zealand, Germany, Indonesia and of course, all over Australia. He spends much of his time competing and training overseas. “I spend most Australian winters over in the USA and this would be my favourite place to visit, especially Winter Haven, Florida. The Chain of Lakes there are amazing!”

After 11 years Brendan finally won the Australian National Barefoot Championships.

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One could easily assume that the World Champ would have a highly regimented training schedule. In Brendan’s case, that assumption is wrong. Proving that the best skier really is the one having the most fun, Brendan spends about 90% of his time simply playing on the water, practicing without the pressure of a strict schedule and keeping his love for the sport a priority. A month or so before a big event, he would take it up a few notches, filming his training sessions and critically analysing each move, each trick, each entry and exit, the timing of his tricks and the boats until he has everything dialled. He believes in a balance between work and play, and clearly this method is paying off for him. “Training is something I’m not great at.

Foot skiing is a fun sport. I like to have fun on the water.”

JAN - MARCH 2020

BOAT SPORTS

One element that does contribute to Brendan’s success is his Australia-wide ski school, Rampaige Barefoot Coaching Clinics. While he does have a secret spot to use while he is home on the Gold Coast, his work takes him all over Australia to different bodies of water and he uses this to his advantage. Clients hire Brendan to be their skiing instructor and he would fly into wherever they are based, ski and coach in their local area, and use their boats and their crew. “I train on a different boat each week, and I also have a different driver. This makes my training more difficult resulting in better conditioning for those tournament days.”

About three years ago, while coaching in the Maroochy River, Brendan skied directly over a log, breaking his heel and putting him out of the water for six months. Always the optimist, he continued to coach everyday throughout his healing and rehab period, and used the time to really polish the technical side of his coaching - skills he was then able to put into practice in his training. Having only ever sustained one big injury, the 27-year-old is in amazing form and does not look like he will be slowing down anytime soon.

Brendan is extremely passionate about promoting the sport and helping it grow through his training and coaching camps, as well as through foot ski videos. If you follow Brendan Paige on any of the social media platforms, your feed is no doubt flooded with the amazing promotional videos and images of this talented young athlete. Brendan has an intoxicating persona, his fancy footwork almost outshone by the obvious joy that foot skiing brings him, making him a great poster boy for the sport.

Having trophies already on the shelf and many more in his sights, combined with his highly successful coaching business, Brendan Paige is a name that we can expect to be at the forefront of water-skiing in Australia and around the world for years to come. Not only is he a main player in the future of foot ski, he is literally training the future of foot ski— coaching and inspiring the youth of Australia and positively taking the sport to a whole new level. 2020 looks set to be an impressive year for this vibrant barefooter, and that is something we all are very excited to keep a close eye on!

E: brendan@brendanpaige.com W: www.vesselcorp.com PH: 0430087685

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BOAT GUIDE

WISDOM OF TERRY DAVIS

MARINE SURVEYOR

By Kellie Byrnes

A

s a boatie, at some point in your life, you may need to utilise the services of a marine surveyor. In particular, you should call on these specialists when you are buying a vessel and need to get a comprehensive condition survey completed to ensure a boat is a safe buy.

One Queenslander with more than 50 years of experience in this field is Terry Davis. Terry is a naval architect and an AMSA-accredited marine surveyor who handles projects such as commercial and private vessel surveys and valuations, new construction inspections, and sea trials and stability tests on new and existing boats. He also conducts crew training, completes vessel design consultations, and is involved in boat-building contract evaluation and advice, and construction supervision and reporting, among other things.

Terry is the marine surveyor for the Volunteer Marine Rescue Association, Inc. and works with the Australian Volunteer Coast Guard. He has also worked internationally over his many decades in the sector, with time spent in countries such as Egypt and the Philippines.

When asked what keeps him in the field, and what he enjoys most about being a surveyor, Terry identifies that he is never bored. He says, “After all these years of participation, I still find the marine industry interesting, challenging, fulfilling, ever advancing, and never dull.”

While many boaties have not considered hiring a marine surveyor to assist them, people like Terry, qualified and experienced in the area, have a lot to offer. “The key benefits for prospective boat buyers, who hire a marine surveyor to inspect a vessel and carry out a survey, is that any problems or failures in the construction and systems of a vessel are found,” says Terry. “We ensure the vessel is seaworthy and safe.”

Terry notices that when buying a boat, whether new or used, boaties often repeat the same kinds of mistakes. “A lot of buyers do not engage a marine surveyor to inspect a boat prior to their purchase, but later find serious problems,” he says. “People then hire a surveyor to try to solve their problems, which can sometimes be disastrous and very costly. Buyers should be aware that sellers sometimes attempt to hide or cover up issues; they’re trying to unload the vessel on an unsuspecting buyer. It’s always a case of ‘buyer beware’. Boat repairs are always reasonably expensive, so it pays to make sure the vessel you buy is in sound condition.”

When surveying recreational boats, Terry encounters a lot of the same problems.

Each boat type tends to have its own common drawbacks. He notes, “With GRP (glass-reinforced plastic, aka fiberglass) recreational vessels, the big issues are osmosis and/or delamination of the hull, and structural cracking. Plus, often the exterior surfaces are badly affected by a lack of maintenance, which means the gelcoat has to be recoated with a urethane paint system.”

Engage a surveyor to survey the vessel. This ensures you receive independent advice on the condition of the vessel and any potential but unlikely issues that may present themselves. multihullsolutions.com.au

Terry believes there are pros and cons to the new laws. “Some of the changes and new rules are good, and some are not so ideal, so it will take some time to sort out, with the input of the industry.” There is one update in particular, though, that Terry has concerns with. “The AMSA is making it more difficult to upgrade grandfathered boats to either a higher class or to increase the complement numbers,” he declares. “Really, AMSA would like to phase out the Grandfather Clause so the industry is all on the same level, working under the same rules.”

However, there is an upside. “The positive development lately has been some relaxing of the requirements for inshore and smooth water vessels. Plus, there’s the Exemption 40 rule for small fishing vessels and work boats. In general, I believe AMSA is genuinely trying to make commercial vessels safer for the public.”

Whether looking at recreational or commercial regulations, Terry sees that there will be commonality going forward. “In general, it’s all about safety at sea and preservation of life in case of emergencies, as well as the proper training of operators.”

To find out more about Terry’s services as a marine surveyor, contact him by phone on 0428 664 306 or by email at TDMarineSurveyors@bigpond.com

When it comes to aluminium boats, Terry says, “The big issues are crevice corrosion, plate and structural cracking, and weld cracking or failure. Also, with painted boats, you can find bubbling under the paint system.” As for steel boats, rust is the main issue. Terry says, “Steel boats mainly present with rust problems and paint deterioration, rather than structural failure.”

Wooden boats, on the other hand, are usually harder to insure because of their pitfalls. Insurance companies are often reluctant to insure wooden vessels, especially those over ten years old. Terry explains, “The key problems that show up with these types of boats are worm infestations under water, and dry rot above the waterline. Also, general leaking problems are common.”

Laws and regulations in the marine industry change over time, so both boaties and marine surveyors have to stay up to date. “Currently, state marine authorities are looking more closely at the building of recreational boats. They want to ensure the vessels meet minimum standards, especially for reserve buoyancy, safety equipment, and the licensing of drivers,” states Terry. Changes are also happening with commercial vessels and how they are regulated. “These vessels now come under the jurisdiction of the national authority, AMSA.” 94

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BOAT PRODUCTS

FLIR Introduces

DOCKSENSE ALERT Similar to the driver-assist capabilities of today’s modern automobiles, DockSense Alert detects, displays, and alerts the captain to obstacles around the boat using FLIR machine vision camera technology and video analytics. Live video feeds from each DockSense camera make it simple to see into blind spots using a Raymarine Axiom® display and DockSense intelligent object recognition helps prevent scrapes, crashes, and close calls that can be both expensive and embarrassing.

F

LIR Systems announced Raymarine DockSense™Alert, a new addition to Raymarine’s intelligent docking technology line designed for a broader range of vessels.

Raymarine DockSense, unveiled in early 2019, is the recreational marine industry’s first intelligent object recognition and motionsensing assisted docking solution. Based on this patent pending technology, DockSense Alert can be installed on any boat to help captains safely monitor their surroundings and dock their boats with confidence.

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DockSense Alert systems consist of an array of one to five DockSense stereo vision cameras and a central processor connected to a Raymarine Axiom display or network.

DockSense Alert accurately measures distances to the dock, pilings, and other moored vessels, and provides real-time visual indicators along with a live camera view on Raymarine Axiom multifunction displays. The system also provides audible and visual alarms to alert the captain in real-time to the effects of wind, current, and propeller thrust.

“Docking a boat can be a stressful experience, even for the most experienced captains,” said

Travis Merrill, President of FLIR’s Commercial Business Unit. “Our DockSense Alert system, with its intelligent alerts and live camera views, helps reduces the stress of docking and improves a captain’s boat handling skills.”

DockSense Alert systems require a Raymarine Axiom display to operate and are available in one-, three- and five-camera packages.

To learn more, visit www.raymarine.com/docksense.

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BOAT GOLD PRODUCTS BOAT COAST

HDS LIVE 12

with Active Imaging 3-in-1 Transducer R

ig your boat with a HDS LIVE 12 and get access to the top fishfinding innovations with support for Active Imaging™, LiveSight™ real-time sonar, StructureScan® 3D with Active Imaging and Genesis Live onscreen mapping, plus the capability to view data in a six-panel splitscreen.

A NEW LEVEL OF FISH FINDING PERFORMANCE - With HDS LIVE, we took the most popular fishfinder series on the professional fishing circuit and made it even better for all anglers with a sleek, new design, faster processor, best-ever built-in suite of HDS navigation tools, and support for a wide array of new fish finding technology, unmatched by any other fishfinder.

FISH IN REAL-TIME WITH LIVESIGHT™ SONAR - The next weapon in an angler’s arsenal, LiveSight™ real-time sonar, is the perfect addition to our Number One Fishfinder.

Take your HDS LIVE system to the next level with live views of bait and fish movements. Watch fish react to your bait and know what is working, what isn't and what to do next.

Set up a two-panel splitscreen, and find the fish with Active Imaging, then watch fish hit your bait – as it happens – with LiveSight™ real-time sonar. Turn all your fishing into sight fishing with LiveSight™.

ACTIVE IMAGING™ - Perfect for pinpointing fish-holding areas, like rock piles, standing timber, weedbeds, ditches and drop-offs, Active Imaging™ sonar delivers superior clarity and the highest resolution images of fish and structure at a longer range than any other structure-imaging technology.

FISHREVEAL - Makes fish easier to see on DownScan Imaging™ by combining CHIRP sonar fish targets with superior, high-resolution views of bottom detail, structure and bait fish. FishReveal removes the need to display CHIRP sonar and DownScan Imaging in a two-panel split-screen.

MAPPING IN REAL-TIME - Update the mapping of your favorite fishing spot or map unmapped areas with ½ foot contours – in real time – on the screen of your fishfinder/chartplotter with C-MAP Genesis Live. Genesis Live uses digital depth to create high-definition maps featuring ½ foot contours. Target key fishing areas with Genesis Live maps, which makes it easy to find areas where

fish like to hide, like drop-offs, points, ditches and more. A truly customizable mapping experience, Genesis Live gives you control over contour transparency, contour density, depth and safety shading color palettes, and more. Create your Genesis Live maps in real-time, saving them as you go to a microSD card.

SMARTPHONE NOTIFICATIONS - Keep your eyes on the fish and never miss an important text or call with smartphone notifications built into HDS LIVE. Turn off phone notifications for uninterrupted fishing, or leave them on to receive popup notifications on the screen of your HDS LIVE display.

LIVECAST™ SMARTPHONE INTEGRATION (HDS LIVE 16/12 ONLY) - You no longer have to choose between watching the big game and spending a day on the water with LiveCast™ smartphone integration. Watch video, view Google maps and fishing data on the high-resolution screen of your HDS LIVE display via the HDMI connection on HDS LIVE 16- and 12-inch models. View data from your smartphone and keep your eye on the fish with a LiveCast™ sonar split screen.

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SYC Marina is home to 300 vessels including Super Yacht berths.

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JAN - MARCH 2020

BOAT GADGETS

Great Products FOR

Boating Your boating adventure starts here, with a selection of leading products to improve your time out on the water. Join the conversation on our social media channels and let us know about any of these products you’ve used. You can recommend a great product for us to review by contacting info@boatgoldcoast.com.au

SWIFTCO TRAILERS

SUBLUE WHITESHARK MIX SCOOTER For swimming pools or snorkeling, glide through the water with the underwater scooter. Using two motors that provide thrust, the Mix can propel you to up to 5.5 kph to depths of 40m. Simply grab the handles, squeeze the triggers, and off you go! Attach the included floater to achieve positive buoyancy. A high-capacity battery, battery charger with AC adapter, and a safety strap are included with the WhiteShark Mix. The portable design lets the WhiteShark Mix and accessories to be packed away inside the included duffle bag for transportation to your next adventure. At Sanctuary Cove captainnemos.com.au 1800 444 949.

NEW GENERATION SUPER ANCHORS

GLADIUS MINI UNDERWATER DRONE Explore, capture, and share 4K UHD video and 12Mp photos of the world beneath the surface with the GLADIUS MINI Underwater ROV Kit from CHASING. This bundle includes the GLADIUS MINI vehicle and base station, a wireless transmitter/ controller, batteries and chargers, a 32GB memory card, and a 45m tether. 4k UHD camera, Portable backpack, One touch lock-depth mode, 2-hour runtime, and adjustable tilt-lock mode. At Sanctuary Cove captainnemos.com.au 1800 444 949.

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The Sacra Excel is a new generation anchor without a roll bar. Allowing it to fit just about any anchor housing arrangement—pull pit and bow roller designs. The Excel is a certified Super High Holding Power anchor. It has a cast-filled ballast to ensure self righting, and it is a new design of 70% convex, 30% concave, part of this concave being the cutting edges. Excel is not a plough anchor (no plough sheers). In place of plough sheers is a single plain concave fluke, rather than plough the substrate. This new fluke arrangement is designed to compress, then directs the material-substrate over the rear of the Excel forcing itself deeper as more load is applied. The Excel range caters for boats from the smallest run-a-bout to large ocean going work boats, yachts and trawlers. www.anchorright.com.au

If you are searching for a quality boat trailer to safely and confidently tow your prized boat for 10-20 years, you've hit the jackpot with a Swiftco Trailer. With an industry leading 5-YEAR WARRANTY on all their boat frames, only trust Swiftco. An Australian family business who have a reputation for exemplary boat trailers built for Australian conditions. With 45 years in business, Swiftco’s reputation has been built on integrity, passion and cutting edge innovation, ensuring quality and safety, with workmanship second to none. For all Australian-made custom trailers, boat, marine, box or plant trailers, they are the people to see. Definitely the experts in everything trailers. All Swiftco trailers are open 4mm framed and importantly, galvanised inside and out for ease of flushing the trailer free from salt water, ensuring your purchase lasts the distance. With their expertly designed drive-on guides, you will be the envy at the boat ramp with the ease and simplicity in launching and retrieving your boat. Swiftco Trailer and Marine Centre - Gold Coast and Townsville. Check out their other sites: www.swiftcomarine.com.au

SPLASHDRONE 3+ The most reliable and versatile waterproof drone yet. Coupled with several different payloads such as waterproof gimbal 4K camera GC-3, waterproof payload release with HD FPV live video PL-2, waterproof payload release with 4K camera, and 1axis gimbal PL-3, and the upcoming waterproof payload release with low-light camera PL-4.

SplashDrone 3+ can be adapted for a wide variety of uses. It is an all-purpose, all-weather, waterproof flying platform. New features and improvements: Extended flight times, new LiHV battery with 3 levels of battery warning, new Smooth+ remote controls, Lost Drone Location Beacon option, new and improved 3-axis gimbal 4K camera, and enhanced waterproofing throughout, At Sanctuary Cove captainnemos.com.au 1800 444 949.

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BOAT REVIEW

Aura

shines in a sea of sameness

By Jeni Bone

The main deck, deckhouse and flybridge are all constructed in custom moulds using E-glass and epoxy either side of a Divinycell structural foam core.

The saloon boasts massive glazing offering extensive natural light, while the interior is a stylish and minimalist blend of stainless steel, leather and light timber details, comfortable enough for guests and crew to enjoy a well-earned rest during extended stints at sea.

Below deck, the fully-customised three cabin layout suits the owner’s main purpose, game fishing, with enough of life’s luxuries for the owner and crew, and a fourth cabin devoted to top-of-the-line angling equipment.

F

using traditional craftsmanship and high-tech materials, Norman R. Wright & Sons have created the one-of-a-kind, 60ft Sport Fisher “Aura”.

In the spacious self-draining cockpit, the game chair is by Release, and there’s a live bait well, plenty of refrigeration and an electric hopper window separating cockpit from saloon so guests can keep a firm eye on the action. A custom game tower teamed with 43-inch triple spreader with 15-inch centre spreader Outriggers from Rupp Marine round out this impressive battle wagon.

Drawing on their 110-year history of custom-crafted vessels, Norman R. Wright & Sons have brought to life the vision of a seasoned sports angler in the “serious, go anywhere” game fishing boat called Aura.

Powered by twin Caterpillar 1825HP C32 ACERT engines pushes Aura along at an impressive top speed of 41 knots or 27 to 30 knots cruising. Featuring Twin Disc Quickshift gearboxes and EC300 with Palm Beach controls, means backing up on fish or berthing is a breeze.

The 60ft flybridge vessel was designed in-house by our intergenerational team of naval architects: Bill Wright, Adam Evripidou (from their Sydney office) and Angus Cameron, who was recently honoured with the RINA Award in London.

A Seakeeper 16 was specified by the owner and will ensure exceptional comfort underway, at rest or when fighting fish. Twin Onan 19kVA generators power the extensive air-conditioning and other equipment whilst also offering redundancy.

Following the meticulous brief from the discerning Melbourne-based owner, one-off temporary moulds were built for all main components including hull, deck, deckhouse, flybridge and console.

According to the owner, Aura was five years in the planning.

“None of our boats are built in fixed moulds, allowing for every aspect of the build to suit the custom requirements of the owners,” explained Tony Riek, Norman R. Wright & Sons Managing Director.

“Aura features a warped planing hull with deep tunnels below the waterline with substantial flare forward, optimised to be stable at speed and at rest when fishing, whilst retaining superior performance at speed in a seaway or to and from offshore fishing grounds.

“This is achieved without the need for noisy hull bottom spray-rails or planning strakes. The transom shape including large radiused corners and high gunwhales was designed to facilitate backing up hard on fish.”

The structure was designed by composite engineering experts, ATL Composites to meet DnV-GL HSLC R1 High Speed Light Craft Rules.

The hull bottom is designed and constructed for 2g loading and is infused with epoxy resin and E-glass either side of a high density Divinycell structural foam core providing the ultimate strength-to-weight structure.

Topsides are also foam cored with the highly stressed impact zones such as the chines, keel and stem all being solid GRP. Engine bearers are a combination of carbon fibre and E-glass with epoxy resin and run the full length of the hull to provide a rigid hull. The hull is a monocoque construction with the hull shell providing the strength and rigidity with minimal internal framing to maximise usable space.

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“We did our homework overseas and here locally,” he explained. “Wrights offered everything we were looking for, years of design and building experience, a very functional company structure and people that are passionate about building boats. The other thing that must be mentioned was the build process and the overall experience, it was fantastic these guys were a pleasure to deal with.

Aura’s skipper, accomplished big game boat Captain Simon Carosi has only praise for the new vessel.

“I’ve been lucky enough to work on and run some of the finest sport fishers built here and overseas. Hats off to the team at Wrights on creating one of the finest, right here in Australia.”

Situated on the Brisbane River, Norman R. Wright & Sons have been designing and building custom crafted motor yachts for 110 years. The esteemed Australian boat builder has a reputation for building premium quality motor yachts incorporating traditional timber boat building techniques with state-ofthe-art processes, products and materials.

“Aura was a very exciting project for our business as she allowed the application of our extensive design experience, teamed with the ability of our master trades people, working with the latest composite boat building materials to deliver exactly what our client required,” said Mr Riek.

“Aura is an exceptional example of our custom design and boat building capabilities, seldom offered by local manufacturers.”

More at www.wrightsons.com.au JAN - MARCH 2020

BOAT REVIEW

SPECIFICATIONS LOA | 60’ (18.29m)

BEAM | 19’3” (5.87m)

DRAFT | 4’ 7” (1.40m)

DISPLACEMENT LIGHTSHIP | 73,000 lbs (33.1 tonnes) SPEED | 41 knots (@ 93% engine load) FUEL | 1,800 US gal (6,800 L)

STABILISER | Seakeeper 16

WATER | 160 US gal (600 L)

ENGINES | 2 x 1825HP C32 Cat ACERT

GENSETS | 2 x 19kVA Onan

TRANSMISSIONS | Twin Disc Quickshift MGX-6620A CONTROLS | Twin Disc EC300 with Palm Beach Controls

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swspac.com | 1300 479 757

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BOAT PRODUCTS

LIGHT THE WAY ABOVE AND BELOW THE BOAT ased in Helensvale on Queensland’s Gold Coast, Aqualuma has been in the lighting B business since 2005, quickly establishing itself as a leader in the marine LED lighting market.

The company’s success in this sphere has led to it exporting its products for motor yachts, superyachts, sportsfishers, and marinas to 56 countries around the world; and in 2019, launching the GEN 5 range of underwater lights.

During the Global Financial Crisis (GFC) 11 years ago, however, Aqualuma’s co-founding directors, brothers Carl and Grant Amor, saw the need to expand the company’s reach and focus, as sales for luxury goods such as boats sank. “When the GFC hit, nobody was buying boats,” Carl Amor said. “They certainly didn’t need lights for the boats they weren’t buying.

So, we looked at what else we could do, how we could move forward with another product.”

In 2011, the Amors saw the potential of moving forward producing high bay lights for warehouses, factories and other industrial and commercial operations, and spent 18 months developing their first light in this area. Carl said it was initially a challenge to get the word out that Aqualuma was more than just a marine lighting company. “Namechange was one of the things that was brought up. But when we got KPMG to do a study on Aqualuma, they came back to us and said, ‘Don’t change your name. You’ve got a fantastic name around the world, and changing the name would be a mistake.’

So one of the challenges was convincing people that Aqualuma doesn’t just focus on underwater lighting anymore,” Carl said.

However, this challenge was overcome soon enough. Carl said the company’s wealth of experience in the marine lighting sector gave 100

Aqualuma an edge over its competitors, and eased the difficulties of moving into producing Australian-made LED high bay lighting solutions. “We were coming from building lights for the world’s harshest environment,” Carl explained. “We have kept that mentality going as a high bays manufacturer; our lights are water-proof, dust-proof and corrosionproof. They can be hung outside, or even hung next to a saltwater environment.”

For Aqualuma, success in the commercial and industrial LED market meant aspiring to be the best in the field from the very beginning.

With now nine years in the commercial lighting market, Aqualuma now exports to Europe, New Zealand, Canada, the US, Taiwan and Hong Kong. The company is also top-listed in the Design Light Consortium (DLC) in the US. According to Carl, staying competitive as an Australian manufacturer is a challenge that Aqualuma is well equipped for. A slim, lean company, with 19 staff in total, all Aqualuma’s design work is carried out inhouse. Most of its manufacturing processes are carried out at its Helensvale site, with some components subcontracted to other Australian companies. Its die-casting work, for instance, is carried out by Melbourne-based company, and plastic components in Burleigh Heads on the Gold Coast.

Carl said maintaining flexibility, diversity and quality in its product range was key to Aqualuma’s success. “One of the things we have had to do is make sure we are the best, because we can’t be the cheapest,” he said. “It’s about quality. We offer free lighting plans to anybody who wants to put our lights into their facility. We do the lighting plan, we give recommendations, and we try to use the minimum number of lights for each facility to minimise power consumption. We also have a wide range of products, from movement sensor lights to aisle optics, petrol station lights and food-grade lights for food preparation areas.”

Underwater Light

www.aqualuma.com JAN - MARCH 2020

BOAT GUIDE

The toughest on the market

Marine Defibrillator

By Scott Whimpey

W

ith boating becoming increasingly popular due to the booming tourist market and the accessibility of marine activities, more people than ever before are getting out on the water and enjoying everything the marine industry has to offer. With the increase in popularity comes the expected increase in safety for those out on the water, especially those who are at high risk for cardiac arrest.

this time limit and the chances of survival are basically zero.

In the past, there was certainly a level of trepidation for people when embarking out on a boat trip.

What happens if a medical emergency happens while out at sea? Surely there would not be a safe place to store a defibrillator with rough seas, wind and rain?

At First Aid Accident & Emergency (FAAE), we carry Heartsine Samaritan® defibrillator packages that are perfect for any marine vessel. Featuring a fully automatic Heartsine Samaritan® 360P Defibrillator, IP67 Rated Tough Case, a Patient Prep Kit and AED Signage, the entire pack can be purchased for $1,999. In addition, FAAE also offer first aid and CPR training so you are fully qualified to handle any emergency situations that may arise. This gives not only yourself, but any guests/tourists peace of mind when out enjoying the water in your vessel.

Enter our HeartSine Marine Package range. One of the only defibrillators on the market with an IP56 rating, the Heartsine is able to withstand everything the elements can throw at it and then some; in a field test, a Heartsine defibrillator was blasted for 3 minutes with a high pressure hose and retained full functionality. If any defibrillator was made for the open sea, it was this one.

If that was not enough, our marine packs now come in a tough IP67 waterproof case that raises the bar for defibrillator storage on your vessel.

This basically means if you accidentally drop the defibrillator over the side of the boat (while still in its case) it will still be fine by the time you come about and fish it out of the water.

The value of an onboard defibrillator simply cannot be expressed. Without it, the potential for a fatal cardiac arrest increases greatly. There are only 10 minutes from the onset of cardiac arrest for defibrillation to be effective; any longer outside

BOATGOLDCOAST.COM. AU

If boating in a remote area, it may very well take over 15-20 minutes for a rescue vessel or helicopter to arrive at your location, and by that time, it will already be too late. Having an onboard defibrillator ensures that defibrillation can be performed within 1-2 minutes of cardiac arrest, and gives the patient the best possible chance of survival.

In addition to this, we also carry an office version that would be perfect for any commercial marine business. Instead of a tough case, your defibrillator is enclosed in an alarmed metal wall cabinet, ensuring high visibility and accessibility in the case of an emergency.

Don’t wait until it’s too late to put a defibrillator on your boat. Too often, we see defibrillators being installed only after a tragedy has taken place.

Be proactive with the safety of yourself and your guests, because we never want to hear anyone say, “I wish I’d bought a defibrillator before…”

To browse our full range of defibrillator packages, as well as first aid kits and supplies, visit our website at www.firstaidae.com.au

THE ONLY DEFIBRILLATOR PACK YOU’LL NEED FOR ANY VESSEL Specially designed for use in all conditions, the HeartSine samaritan® PAD 360P is a sophisticated, lightweight and fully automatic defibrillator for adult or paediatric use. The HeartSine design is easy to operate and durable with voice and visual prompts, helping the user through pad placement and CPR in an emergency. The SAM 360P defibrillator also will analyse the heart rhythm and automatically deliver an electrical shock (if needed). Its advanced technology is balanced against the demands of real-world use. Easy to use with clear voice prompts Value Pack at $1899 includes: 1 x PAD 360P Defibrillator - Waterproof Case IP67 Adult PADPAK - Casualty Prep Kit Soft shell Carry case - AED Location Sticker Free Training Video - 8 year warranty FIRST AID TRAINING COURSES AVAILABLE. PH: (07) 5520 5068

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BOAT PRODUCTS

Palmer

MAKES FLAGS

By Brad Palmer. (Interview with Andy kancachian)

across the industry of making flags back in 1981, as a 17-year-old. At that time, my father was the export manager for a large electrical company. On one of Ihisstumbled overseas trips, he received a set of desk flags with a marble base and gold-plated flagpoles from a Saudi Arabian company. Upon his return, he proudly placed the colourful creation on the kitchen table during our family dinner and declared that this could be my future business.

Encouraged by my parents, we sourced materials and came up with a prototype of a twin desk flag presentation set featuring an Australian flag and a custom-made company flag. My mum bought me a suit and tie, and a briefcase for the samples.

With my shaggy surfie hair, off I went into Collins Street, Melbourne and began selling the concept. I am sure my first couple of orders were what I call sympathy orders.

My parents moved to the Gold Coast, and soon after, I followed, driving my Kingswood, in 1985. I placed an ad in the yellow pages under Flags and Pennants, bought a second-hand sewing machine from the trading post, and received a fiveminute lesson from the old Italian man. I set it up on my back porch of a rented flat at Mermaid Beach and realised that I better teach myself how to make flags. I taught myself silkscreen printing and flagpole installation. I was keen to learn and make my way on the Gold Coast.

More than 38 years later, Palmer Flags has become a unique local enterprise that stays true to its business ethos. Our legacy of quality products and good customer relationships means we still supply many of the early customers, dating back to the early days of the business.

BOAT FLAGS In our shop, we have four industrial sewing machines that each have a role to play in the manufacturing process. The flag shop’s main product line is the Australian national flag, both blue and red of varying sizes, from the smallest ¾ yd (45cm) up to 6yd (550cm). The demand for these hand-sewn flags is constant. Additionally, we manufacture custom boating pennants and code flags, and we also supply the local lifeguards with their red/ yellow beach flags.

it. We also use this fabric for appliquéd stars on the sewn flags.

Many of the custom flags with boat names are interesting to design and manufacture.

The international-flagged vessels crew who visit the store have some great flags that can challenge us a bit with measurements and proportions.

Through talking with some cruising sailors who come into the shop, we know that a Q Flag (quarantine) is required as clearance while underway flown from the starboard spreader. Also, as a show of courtesy, a small flag of the country being entered is flown.

A civil ensign denotes the nationality of the vessel. This should be flown from the stern when entering and leaving a port. Local pleasure craft are usually not required to have these flags, but are able to fly either the red or blue Australian national flag.

BUSINESS ADVICE FOR LONG LIFE We now arrange for the printing of our printed flag range offsite using a local supplier.

The days of me screen printing here at the shop are finished, and only recently did I dispose of all my large screens, inks and even all the classic art film (ruby) used from the early days. That day was indeed a sad moment in my life. But keeping up with modern business methods and outsourcing where possible keeps our overheads down, and ensure we will be in business for the long term.

Finding a business that supplies a customer demand is a good start, and having a unique product and/or servicing a niche market will ensure you are on the right path to success. If you provide friendly service at a competitive price, there is a much higher chance of repeat business from existing customers. And do not be afraid to work over weekends and holidays; that is all part of small business lifestyle in this country.

See you in store www.palmerflags.com.au

The Australian red ensign flag is popular with boaties, as well as the international signal flags, both of which we keep in stock. These are also used commercially by the pontoon and barge companies. Other popular flags are those of foreign ports like the Canary Islands, Jamaica, and Panama. The courtesy flags in small sizes are also very popular. We have a good range of these, and stock the plain yellow quarantine flag required when cruising to other countries.

Palmer Flags

The Flag Shop

We are making the burgees for many of the local boat clubs, including just recently for the The Southport School (TSS) Sailing.

WHICH FLAGS AND WHAT SIZE There is no clear rule of size for custom made flags, though generally we recommend the Australian ensign red or blue should be a flag size of one-inch per foot of boat.

So if the boat is around 54ft, we can use a 1.5yd (138cm) flag.

We make our hand-sewn flags using traditional woven polyester flag bunting. We also use a 200 denier bright nylon from the U.S., which we use for the code flags, and if customers prefer the brighter colour range. Trilobal polyester (polyknit) is an alternative material we use for printed flags. It is lightweight and has a nice sheen to 102

Flagmakers & Designers Since 1981

Manufacturers of Australian, International and Maritime Flags Flagpoles Installation and Service

PH. 55 722 334 Palmer Flags 1981

Shop 12 / 2462 GCHwy Mermaid Beach 4218 www.palmerflags.com.au

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JAN JAN -- MARCH MARCH 2020 2020

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FUEL STOP S

© Copyright Commonwealth of Australia 2019, Bureau of Meteorology.

F I N D T R U S T WO R T H Y L O C A L T R A D E S FA S T S E A R C H B OAT I N G A N D L I F E S T Y L E

The Bureau of Meteorology gives no warranty of any kind whether express, implied, statutory or otherwise in respect to the availability, accuracy, currency, completeness, quality or reliability of the information or that the information will be fit for any particular purpose or will not infringe any third party Intellectual Property rights. The Bureau's liability for any loss, damage, cost or expense resulting from use of, or reliance on, the information is entirely excluded.

BOAT GOLD COAST

RE-FUEL RE-FRESH RE-STOCK

ON-WATER MARINE FUEL LOCATIONS, GOLD COAST TO MORETON BAY. Open seven days a week, these locations also offer a boating lifestyle metres from your vessel. Enjoy waterside cafes, bait and tackle, nearby shopping, chandlery for all your onboard equipment, while accessing a complete range of maintenance services. Petrol, Diesel, Pump-Out Service.

MARINERS COVE MARINA - MAIN BEACH

Refueling facility for vessels up to 55m, ice, bait and basic groceries. Full amenities including toilets, showers and laundry. Marina berths for vessels from 10m to 30m. PH: 5591 2800 marinerscovemarina.com.au 27°58.218'S 153°25.460'E MARINA ONE FUEL & FOOD - HOPE ISLAND

Two diesel and premium 95 unleaded fuel bowsers. A fast diesel bowser provides 140 liters per minute. Marina staff will assist with tying up and re-fueling. Bistro serving breakfast, lunch and dinner.

PH: 5530 1531 marina1.com.au 27°52.104'S 153°22.759'E SANCTUARY COVE MARINA - SANCTUARY COVE

· 24/7 Premium (PULP) & Diesel fuels for tinnies to superyachts · 24/7 Bait & free day visitor berths · Dock Shop Open 9am–4pm daily · Marine Village with restaurants, cafes, retail and services · Full marina amenities & security PH: 5577 6069 sanctuarycove.com/marina 27°51.071'S 153°21.795'E HORIZON SHORES MARINA - WOONGOOLBA

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· ULP, Premium & Diesel · Gas & Water · Bait, Ice & Chandlery · Licensed Café · Open: 7.30am to 5pm, 7days PH: 5546 2300 horizonshores.com.au 27°45.133'S 153°20.856'E 105

BOAT GOLD COAST

BOUNDLESS OPPORTUNITIES

Maritime Career Training F

or those with an affinity for the ocean, the maritime industry has boundless opportunities.

Often, a recreational passion becomes an extremely rewarding career. One such path is working on luxury superyachts around the world, providing exceptional work, financial and social rewards.

Danielle Botes currently works as an instructor with Maritime Career Training, and is a perfect example of the variety of rewards and opportunities that a maritime career provides.

With a keen interest in the ocean and environment, Danielle studied Marine Biology and Environmental Management and holds a Bachelors degree in Science and Arts in these areas. This led to becoming a research assistant in Tanzania, and then into a Dive Instructor role in Northern Queensland on the Great Barrier Reef. After working for four years in various positions on the water, Danielle saw her peers regularly leaving the reef to work on superyachts overseas.

Keen for the adventure, Danielle completed her AMSAapproved Certificate of Safety Training, the basic qualification for any role on a superyacht, and sent off a number of job applications. Soon after, Danielle was boarding a plane for Florida. After a few months, secured a role on a 40-metre motor yacht in the Caribbean as a deckhand.

With motivation to work her way up to Master, Danielle was able to complete further studies with various training institutions around the world and achieved her dream of becoming Master of a 50m Motor Yacht in just six years from her first deckhand position.

During 2016, AMSA required that Danielle complete a revalidation of her Certificate of Safety Training, which she completed with Maritime Career Training on the Sunshine Coast in Queensland.

After relocating back to Australian for land-based work, Danielle was Master on Brisbane river ferries where she was responsible for passenger transport, safety, crowd control, and represented Brisbane City Council for visitors and locals.

Now living and working on the Sunshine Coast, Danielle provides professional training for the Maritime Career Training’s AMSA-approved Certificate of Safety Training. In this role, Danielle heavily leverages her experience in the maritime industry to equip the next generation of adventure-seeking seafarers.

Career Training’s Certificate of Safety Training course will arm you with the basic qualifications to kickstart your adventure.

For further information, pricing, course availability and enrolment, please visit maritimecareers.com.au and amsa.gov.au.

The Certificate of Safety Training, sometimes referred to as STCW 95 or STCW 10, offered by Maritime Career Training is AMSA-approved, and is very well respected and recognised internationally. This certification is the first step to allow you to start applying for superyacht industry work.

With a course run every week, Maritime Career Training offer a high quality, low cost online study and onlocation practical training course that is able to be completed in just three days, the shortest time required by any AMSA-approved organisation offering this training.

The Certificate of Safety Training modules include the following:

● ● ● ●

Security Awareness Training Personal Survival Techniques Fire Prevention and Fire Fighting Personal Safety and Social Responsibility

In addition, a current Provide First Aid certification is required for AMSA to issue the certificate.

If, like Danielle, you are interested in a rewarding and exciting career in the maritime industry, the Maritime

REGO REMINDER LABEL WATERPROOF & FADE RESISTANT

Customised stickers for your car, boat, or trailer

order online at www.regosticker.com.au 106

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SAIL PARADISE REGATTA

EVENTS GUIDE JAN - MARCH 2020

JAN

JAN

CHINESE NEW YEAR

FEB

14-16

25

Many Australians celebrate Chinese New Year, also known as the Lunar New Year.

It marks the first day of the new year in the Chinese calendar. According to the Chinese 12-year animal zodiac cycle, the Chinese year beginning in 2020 is the Year of the Rat. Each Chinese zodiac year begins on Chinese New Year's Day. (www. chinesenewyear.com.au)

Whitsundays comes alive with festivities and fun when the world’s most wondrous sailing event arrives for the Whitsundays Clipper Race Carnival. The carnival will feature signature events such as the Welcome Event at the Airlie Beach foreshore, a long lunch on the iconic Whitehaven Beach, and a Rodeo by the Reef in Bowen. Airlie Beach will host the eleven 70-foot ocean racing yachts, their skippers and their international crew and supporters. (www.clipperroundtheworld.com)

THE LITTLE SHIP GAME FISH CLUB GAMEFISH CLASSIC

FEB

21-23

JAN

11

The Gold Coast is home to the worldrenowned $10-million Race Day, including the $2-million Magic Millions 2YO Classic, and the $2-million Magic Millions 3YO Guineas exclusively for Magic Millions graduates. Featuring nine fast-paced races at the picturesque Gold Coast Turf Club, this Race Day has cemented its reputation on the international racing scene as the must-attend event for the racing elite, punters, and fashionistas alike. (magicmillions.com.au)

A spectacular high-summer offshore sailing regatta decided over four days of racing.

The courses for Sail Paradise will be set just off the surfline of the Gold Coast’s famous sandy beaches with a full range of passage and windward/leeward courses. Rub shoulders with all participating yacht owners and skippers at the waterfront restaurant to celebrate each day’s results. (www.sailparadise.com.au)

WHITSUNDAYS CLIPPER JAN 11-18 RACE CARNIVAL

MORETON BAY CARAVAN, CAMPING, BOATING & 4X4 EXPO

MAGIC MILLIONS RACE DAY

2-5

12 TOWERS OCEAN PADDLE RACE

SURF TO CITY YACHT RACE

FEB

1

No other race in Australia consists of two fleets, an offshore and inshore fleet, both starting and finishing at the same place.

The race see both monohull and multihull yachts compete against each other. The Surf to City is now in its 27th year. In past races, the race attracted over 110 of the most influential yachts in Queensland and northern New South Wales ranging in size from the mighty Black Jack to 7m trailer sailors. (www.surftocity.com)

MAR

5-6

The race will see scores of stand-up paddle and prone paddle athletes contest an open water distance pursuit in the pristine ocean waters of the Gold Coast. An anticipated 120-150 competitors of all ages and board categories will compete on an ocean course that tracks across 12 Gold Coast lifeguard towers out to sea from Snapper Rocks Coolangatta to Burleigh Heads. (www.12towers.com)

One of the largest outdoor adventure events in Queensland, featuring over 160 local and national companies, all in one convenient location. Discover and compare the latest caravans, motorhomes, camper trailers, 4×4s, boats and more.

Talk to industry experts, shop and save on the latest gadgets, tools, camping and fishing gear, and more. Redcliffe Showgrounds. (www.bayexpo.com.au)

This is a 3-day event where Game Fishing Association of Australia (GFAA) rules will apply for the duration of the tournament. Open to teams representing clubs from QGFA zones 3 & 4. Shield is awarded to the Club fielding the highest point scoring team.

The Little Ship Club is located on the waterfront of the picturesque One Mile anchorage at Dunwich on North Stradbroke Island. (littleshipclub.com.au)

MAR MORETON BAY MULTIHULL REGATTA 26-29

MAR NATIONAL 4X4 27-29 OUTDOORS SHOW, FISHING & BOATING EXPO

SANCTUARY COVE INTERNATIONAL BOAT SHOW

Brisbane's leading event for the 4WD industry and fans of the great Australian outdoors including fishing and boating.

There are thousands of bargains and brands on sale with industry experts on hand to give the best advice and deals for your 4x4, camping, fishing, boating and outdoor adventures. Free entertainment, fishing and 4WD seminars, test drives & 4WD training, cooking demonstrations and tastings.

(4x4show.com.au/Brisbane)

The southern hemisphere’s premier marine event, SCIBS will showcase hundreds of boats, four days of fun, one awesome location. A world-famous festival, where fortunes are launched and dreams set sail, SCIBS will be showcased against the spectacular backdrop of the Marine Village at Sanctuary Cove. (sanctuarycoveboatshow.com.au)

All trailerable, inshore and offshore multihulls are invited to race or rally on the waters of Moreton Bay. This regatta is about engaging people, crew and owners to enjoy everything the multihull community has to offer, from great racing to good comradeship. With longer races as a chance to stretch the legs, and short courses to test boat handling, there is something for everyone. (www.rqys.com.au/multihull-events)

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MAY

21-24

JAN - MARCH 2020

BOAT EVENTS

All aboard for the

BRIG SAFARI Interview by Chris Logan

T

he recent Brig Safari, coordinated by BRIG Queensland at Coomera, attracted 106 participants across an armada of 22 boats. Led by event captain Tom Carlisle, the boats launched at The Boat Works, stopped at Slipping Sands Beach at North Stradbroke, then Peel Island and, finally, Tangalooma Island. After an overnight stay, everyone headed back the next day. Despite lasting just two days, it was designed as an unhurried schedule with plenty of time for relaxation and experimentation with the boats’ capabilities.

The inaugural trip was birthed in the wake of the Brig Day Out, another event organised by BRIG Queensland. The company arranged a private beach on Wave Break Island where people could come and see the BRIG boats on offer and what they could do. However, current and prospective owners visiting the Brig Day Out said they wanted to be part of something bigger. They wanted an expedition where they could meet other owners instead of just going on out on their own.

“Knowing many BRIG owners, we realised that they would become friends very quickly,” said Dylan Lopez, managing director of BRIG Queensland. “They bought BRIGs initially because they have plenty in common.

We created the Brig Safari to give them an adventure – a safe environment where we could push them out of their comfort zone a little and they could learn more about their vessels.”

Captain Carlisle explained his role and the advantages of participating in the Brig Safari. “Many people buy boats but don’t understand what they can truly do, so my goal was to pass on knowledge and a skill set that could ensure they always have a good experience when they’re on the water. By taking care of the logistics, it leaves them free to see what their BRIG can do. They are rigid boats that are safe and capable.

While they can be used in wild waters, it doesn’t mean that the owners have the confidence to do that.

The Brig Safari ended up being a massive learning experience, and, for some, a baptism of fire.”

The attendees covered the full-age spectrum, with participants ranging in age from two to 80 years. The family-friendly weekend included sandboarding on Slipping Sands, lunch at Peel Island, sunset drinks, feeding dolphins on Tangalooma Island, dinner event and snorkelling the Tangalooma shipwrecks, with some elements holding particular appeal to little ones.

BOATGOLDCOAST.COM. AU

“The fact we had so many boats on the water, you couldn’t help but feel you were part of something special.”

A range of boats also took to the waters, starting from four-and-a-half metres long to flagship BRIG Eagle 10.

Six demonstrator models were also in attendance, encompassing most models in the range currently on the market.

As event captain, Mr Carlisle found Tangalooma Island to be a good logistical fit – far enough away to be a novel trip but close enough to ensure the launch point was local and there could be stops along the way for the kids. The island also has a range of attractions: dolphin feeding, 13 wrecks to explore, white sand beaches to play on, crystal clear waters, the resort for food and beverage, and much more.

The trip featured a mixture of passages, deep waters, islands, and other navigational challenges to push skippers beyond their comfort zone. Captain Carlisle has extensive experience in: search and rescue, towing and operations. He also holds credentials in rescue boating, navigation instructing and power boating, and is a former commercial captain with a yachting history. So participants were assured that, by following instructions, nothing would get out of hand.

The trip was such a success that places for the next one, from October 16 to 18, 2020 are filling up quickly.

It will be a day longer this time around so people can stay an extra night at Tangalooma Island, and enjoy all the island has to offer over a full day. The next Brig Day Out will be held on May 30 and 31, 2020.

There have been benefits for BRIG Queensland in holding both events, as they generate interest in second-hand BRIGs and improve knowledge about the safety and reliability of the boats. The organising team are passionate about the boats and love showing their capabilities, but see that as a secondary achievement to the community they are creating.

“These events build a brand alliance, and it’s almost a badge of honour to be part of it,” said Captain Carlisle.

“We want people to know that, when you are buying a BRIG, it’s not ‘Thanks, see you later!’ You are buying into a family out on the water. We have some BRIG

owners who are hardcore fisherman, and they are starting to take out other BRIG owners who are not, to give them a taste. Then we have some who are into diving and they will give other owners an experience doing that. Everyone has a certain talent or interest, and they share them with each other.”

“Our ultimate goal is to make sure people feel more comfortable on the water with their BRIG,” Mr Lopez said. “We want to encourage them to visit more than just that same beach every time, to feel confident enough to change their plans and explore new places.” www.siroccomarinenorth.com/brig-day-out/ 109

BOAT EVENTS

Sailing In Paradise Southport Yacht Club

I

magine the excitement, spectacle and festive atmosphere of the Melbourne Cup – but replace the horses with silent yet graceful sailing boats, swiftly racing across the deep blue waters off the shores of the beautiful Gold Coast and stunning amber sunsets, as the boats venture back to the marina.

Southport Yacht Club

This unique regatta is none other than the largest Gold Coast sailing event — the Bartercard Sail Paradise, the race that stops the Gold Coast.

In 2020, the Bartercard Sail Paradise Regatta will run from Thursday, January 2, to Sunday January 5. The regatta will begin four days earlier than normal, not only to encourage participants to bring their families to the Gold Coast for four days of thrilling racing, but also to enjoy the chance to incorporate a family holiday of sightseeing and relaxing.

2020 Bartercard Sail Paradise offers FREE berthing from January 1 to January 6, during Queensland’s peak season, allowing all confirmed participants berthing at SYC Marina, easy access to laundry, washrooms, restaurants and bars. The FREE berthing is on offer to motivate sailors to join the regatta, bring their families to enjoy a Queensland Summer holiday, taking full advantage of local theme parks and the extra festivities of the race.

The event is open to the full spectrum of offshore racing yachts — from the upper echelon of racing monohulls and multihulls, through to the cruising and trailable yachts. The courses for Sail Paradise will be set just off the surfline of the Gold Coast’s famous sandy beaches with a full range of passage and windward/leeward courses.

Last minute entries are still coming in and this regatta is set to be another showcase event. “A new perpetual trophy has been incorporated and we know that the Competition for this will be fierce. We are so privileged to have such beautiful ocean waters off Surfers Paradise where we will be conducting these races for all of our locals to see from the Beach. It’s going to be magnificent seeing these huge yachts racing, with all of their colourful sails and their many crews on the rails,” said SYC Vice Commodore Sail, Drew Jones.

The Sail Paradise Regatta has grown to become one of the most recognised offshore racing yacht events in Queensland. With many entries for all categories confirmed — participants traveling from as far as north QLD to south as Wagga Wagga — for the race, it also sees the Club increasing the entries from 34 vessels in its inaugural year to more than 60 in 2020. A fantastic achievement for the Southport Yacht Club and an amazing event for the City of Gold Coast, continued growth is expected in the coming years. Expectations of the fleets are also increasing, especially in the IRC division after 2019’s record-breaking 75th Sydney Hobart Yacht Race.

We also officially announce the inaugural IRC Gold Coast Championships.

Australian Sailing have jumped onboard with the IRC GOLD COAST Championships to be held each year at Southport Yacht Clubs (SYC) annual Sail Paradise Regatta, which is now into its 11th year. Host event, Bartercard Sail Paradise Regatta will crown the IRC GOLD COAST Champion. “We see this as a positive step towards the promotion of the IRC Competition,” said Australian Sailing Regional Manager Qld, Mr Ben Callard 110

GOLD COAST'S BIGGEST SAILING REGATTA GOLD COAST IRC CHAMPIONSHIPS

JANUARY 2ND - 5TH

Southport Yacht Club will host several off-water events, including live entertainment both Friday and Saturday nights at the brand new 4Shore Bar, where a snack menu is available. For those wanting a larger sit-down meal, they can venture a few steps west into the newly refurbished Waterfront Restaurant. For the seafood lover, an incredible range of fresh Australia seafood amongst other tantalising dishes are available.

Regardless of your preference — whether you are dining, or whether a cold beer or crisp wine is all that is required — you will be able to take in the surreal Gold Coast sun setting over the sparkling waters of the Broadwater, from any angle of the Yacht Club.

On top of the live entertainment, SYC will have Byron Bay Brewery specials and prizes on offer over the weekend, along with a fashion parade by the very popular Helly Hanson. All of them will be showcasing on Saturday the 4th January, plus skippers and sponsors VIP events plus much more over the weekend, with the final event presentation taking place on Sunday the 5th January.

The Southport Yacht Club welcome and encourage participants, their families, members, and guests to attend some, if not all, of the festivities over the four days, watch some amazing vessels on water, and enjoy the atmosphere within the Clubhouse. Whether it’s regaling in tales of the day’s sailing, or relaxing while enjoying the music and meals, there is something for everyone!

JAN - MARCH 2020

BOAT EVENTS

SANCTUARY COVE INTERNATIONAL BOAT SHOW SHOW EXPANDS FOR 32ND EDITION

EXHIBITOR APPLICATIONS NOW OPEN FOR THE SOUTHERN HEMISPHERE’S PREMIER MARINE EVENT

xhibitors can now secure their preferred space on water and within the vibrant E Marine Village for the 2020 Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show (SCIBS) held from May 21-24.

Marine brands are invited to join the 32nd edition of the southern hemisphere’s premier marine event, home to a stellar display of the latest products and innovations all in one spectacular location.

Following the 2019 show which was declared as one of the most successful in the event’s history, attracting 47,243 visitors, 334 exhibitors and over 600 boats, organisers anticipate exhibitor space will again sell out well before SCIBS 2020 in May. A raft of exciting changes have been implemented to the site to further enhance the visitor experience including an improved pavilion layout and new zones catering for more trailerable boats on land and luxury vessels on water.

The announcement of a $8.31M investment by owners Mulpha Australia Ltd to expand the Sanctuary Cove Marina ahead of the show will facilitate more boats on water with brand new premium options for vessels up to 180 feet.

SCIBS General Manager Johan Hasser said the expansion of the marina presents the opportunity to grow the high-end offering on water and strengthen the luxury superyacht and charter segments at the show.

“More premium on-water displays, coupled with more space for the growing trailer boat segment means next year’s show will aim to expand both ends of the market.”

Recently appointed General Manager of Quintrex boats, Sam Heyes, has high hopes for the company’s hometown boat show and their dealer network including Brisbane Quintrex, Surf Coast, Whitewater and Tweed Coast Marine.

“SCIBS is the Gold Coast’s biggest trailer boat event of the year. It is a chance for boaties from Brisbane to Tweed to touch and feel our entire range of boats all while enjoying the epic location.”

BOATGOLDCOAST.COM. AU

“We are an outdoor recreation company, and the layout of SCIBS is perfect to show off the boating lifestyle. Because we have access to sea trials, customers can test drive at the show. Something so unique and so valuable in showing future boaties the best parts about owning a boat.”

Maritimo Lead Designer and Brand Director Tom BarryCotter said that SCIBS is one of the most important marketing initiatives on the Maritimo annual calendar.

“2020 is set to be one of the most impressive shows yet. Maritimo will have a number of models exhibiting within our on water brand experience including the launch of a premiere model with details to be announced soon”, Mr Barry-Cotter said.

“Several international dealer partners will be travelling to the Gold Coast for the show and we anticipate a repeat of previous year’s sales success."

Andrew Bennett from Queensland Marine Centre (QMC) said he was thrilled to be returning to SCIBS in 2020, stating it is an opportunity not to be missed for marine brands.

“SCIBS is always a successful show for our team and next year will be no exception. We’ll be showcasing a range of brands including SeaRay, Boston Whaler, Mastercraft and Dorado”, Mr Bennett said.

“We’ve been coming to SCIBS for many years now, and it’s always been a fantastic event for us both in terms of sales, showcasing to new and existing customers and mixing with our industry peers.”

Riviera Brand & Communications Director Stephen Milne, confirmed that the company was looking forward to their 28th appearance at SCIBS and the opportunity to showcase an outstanding collection of motor yachts.

“2020 will be an exceptional year for Riviera as we celebrate our 40th Anniversary.

Around the world, our 5,600 motor yacht owners and our team of over 600 mastercraftsmen on the Gold Coast will be triumphant as we celebrate the finest-ever Riviera motor yachts created with two world premieres scheduled at SCIBS 2020.”

“Being such a prestigious year, Riviera has many plans and surprises in store for 2020 and that includes a sensational display of motor yachts at SCIBS from 39 to 72 feet across our Sport Yacht, SUV, Flybridge, Sports Motor Yacht and Belize model collections.”

“As Australia’s largest and most awarded luxury motor yacht builder, SCIBS provides the perfect opportunity to present one of our most comprehensive displays of the year.”

To register as an exhibitor, visit www.sanctuarycoveboatshow.com.au or phone the Boat Show office on +61 7 5577 6011.

Running from May 21 to 24, 2020, the Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show attracts over 45,000 visitors and more than 300 exhibitors to a spectacular showcase featuring hundreds of boats and thousands of marine products across four days. SCIBS offers FREE park ‘n’ ride services from Warner Bros. Movie World, along with limited on-site parking, available pre-paid.

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BOAT BOAT GUIDE EVENTS

From PINK to PIRATES 7 REASONS TO VISIT FROM JANUARY TO JULY

By Jayne Keogh

T

he Queensland Maritime Museum at Southbank in Brisbane has planned an exciting year of events for 2020. The year is a significant one for commemorations, being ten years since a shy 16-year-old girl from the Sunshine Coast became the youngest person to sail around the world alone.

In August, it is 75 years since the guns of WW2 were silenced, Japan surrendered, and peace was declared as VP Day (Victory Pacific).

Jessica will be joined by Melanie Piddock who works at the Queensland museum, and is planning to sail around the world singly.

That evening, a pink cocktail party will launch the new permanent exhibition in the gallery to the public. The pink theme will be carried through here with the appropriately named “pink gin” we are hoping to launch, made into cocktails shaken on the spot.

SIREN SERIES TALK On Saturday 16 May, the QMM Siren Series Talk features Jessica at one of our regular talks for members, volunteers and the general public, held at the museum. Her talk will be followed by questions and morning tea, and guests are welcome to inspect the Pink Lady and museum display.

WOMEN IN THE MARITIME WORLD AND JESSICA WATSON DAY The QMM will be celebrating the achievements of women in the maritime world with a salute to Jessica Watson, the young woman who deservedly has become a positive role model for girls and teenagers.

Jessica Watson Day will be declared Friday 15 May, launching a series of events in her honour.

The day will dawn with Women in the Maritime World Breakfast at the museum inviting women (and men too if they want to come!) in all fields of the maritime world: navy, merchant marine, cruise, port and of course recreational sailing, to be held in the repurposed Marine Workshop function centre.

Jessica will speak about her experiences, and where she is now. Jessica will then cut the pink ribbon on a new exhibition on women and the sea, in which we hope to feature more of her story, with some artefacts from her journey. Pink Lady will be restored along with the replica ‘bouncing’ cabin that imitates the roll of the ocean. Clips from the documentary on her voyage will be shown on a flat screen in the cabin.

The afternoon will feature the Jessica Watson Sailing Masterclass, a mentoring session for girls who sail, or those who would like to sail, from sailing clubs and schools who run sailing programs.

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The talks series are held every month on a Saturday, covering a wide range of topics that pertain to the marine world. The first half of 2020 will include talks on Queensland’s historic Clifton Cannons, the first ANZAC convoy in WW1, a book launch about the famous immigrant ship Conway, and session on Houtman, one of the amazing Dutch explorers of the sixteenth century. The talks all include a delicious morning tea and full use of the museum for the day.

SCHOOL HOLIDAYS The school holidays will be a busy time for the museum, with special programs in January, Easter and July. January has a chilly theme: Antarctica: Kids Kool Klub. Activities include making your own snow, an origami sculpture or mobile of arctic animals, dress an explorer paper dolls, decorate cupcakes as snowmen or penguins, a photo booth selfie on a real Antarctic sled and a ‘touch trolley’ of real polar artefacts. Children will also have a chance to draw real penguins and a husky with the help of an animal artist. No promises, but free snow cones may be on the menu!

RRRRRR!!!! Pirate Week is back by popular demand for Easter! A pirate jumping castle, Work the Big Guns, Rowing a Boat [on dry land], Throw a Lifeline, Flags, Sails and Cannons, Build a Toy Pirate Boat, and Ships and Pirate Dry Tack decorating. For littlies - Walk the plank, Scrub and Swab a Deck, Scavenger Hunt, Try the Ship’s Blocks and Tackle, and Build a Toy Pirate Boat to take home.

PINK10 For July, it is “Pink10”. The museum will have a sailing simulator and instructor. Children can learn to rig a sail, test their speed on a rope grinder, and try on life preservers through the ages with Maritime Safety Queensland (MSQ). For the creative, our marine artists in residence will help children to paint their own Pink Lady picture or make their own bunting - pink, of course.

JAZZ BY THE RIVER The last Friday of every month is Jazz by the River, a free music event where guests are treated to the best Brisbane sunset on the river.

The icy drinks and hot fish and chips are for sale, but the cool jazz is free for drink o’clock.

GUIDED WALKS The museum hosts South Brisbane Historic Guided Walks in May and June with expert volunteer members, many of whom are retired navy or merchant navy members. The hour-long walk takes guests on a journey through the rich maritime history of the area including the WW2 coal wharves, South Brisbane Town Hall, South Brisbane Mechanics Institute, WW1 Memorial Park and Jack Tar statue, the Ship Inn and Expo 88.

Guests enjoy morning tea, then a leisurely day in the museum taking in the temporary exhibitions.

2020 will see a maritime art exhibition as well as shows on tugs and pearling. Then there are all the artefacts and stories found in Australia’s largest maritime museum collection! maritimemuseum.com.au JANOCT - MARCH - DEC 2020 2018

BOAT EVENTS

OUTDOORS SHOW QUEENSLAND’S BIGGEST OUTDOORS LIFESTYLE SHOW RETURNS

Q

ueensland’s largest and most popular outdoor lifestyle, recreational and adventure show is back and has been confirmed for 27 – 29 March 2020.

Tickets are on sale now for the National 4x4 Outdoors Show, Fishing & Boating Expo which will be staged once again at the popular Brisbane Showgrounds, presenting the very latest in fishing, boating, 4x4 adventures, accessories and expert advice, combined with everything to do with camping and the outdoors lifestyle.

The 2020 show will showcase the latest and greatest products the industry has to offer, providing visitors with access to unparalleled expertise and advice from industry experts.

As always, it will be a fantastic opportunity for families to get a taste of what the lifestyle can offer them, and see first-hand, new releases, compare prices, and pick up one of the many exclusive show-only specials.

By popular demand, the Action Arena returns with hours of high adrenalin thrills including the crazy antics of

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Australia’s no. one stunt man, Matty Mingay. Mingay and his Hot Wheels Stunt Show which includes his 12 year old son, Maddzy will have crowds on the edge of their seats as they perform outrageous jumps at dizzying heights in their vehicles.

At the same time, there will be plenty of entertainment on the two stages which will host a long rollcall of special guests and visiting industry experts ready to share their expertise, experiences and sometimes amusing stories with show visitors.

Onsite demonstrations will include tutorials on a variety of angling skills and the effectiveness of different fishing equipment, plus there will be plenty of treats to be shared on the Catch and Cook Stage with various friends of the show, putting their culinary skills to the test.

For those looking to get more hands-on and in the drivers seat, the 4x4 Proving Ground is perfect for putting the latest 4WDs on the market through their paces on specifically designed tracks mirroring off-road conditions

27 – 29 MARCH 2020 After almost three decades, the National 4x4 Outdoors Show, Fishing & Boating Expo is well established as Queensland’s biggest and most comprehensive outdoor lifestyle show, attracting more than 30,000 visitors annually.

Officially supported once again by the Boating Industry Association (BIA), the exhibition is at the centre of Queensland’s favourite recreational past time, with a huge array of fishing and boating products on display.

There are a range of transport options to get to and from the Brisbane Showgrounds with plenty of accessible public transport options available, plus more parking than ever before onsite.

Open from 9am to 6pm on Friday and Saturday, and 9am to 5pm on Sunday, tickets are available on-line now or at the door. Children 15 or under are Free with an Adult ticket. Pensioner concessions are also available.

Grab your tickets from www.4x4show.com.au/brisbane and enter in the promo code GOLDCOAST for over 15% off adult tickets.

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BOAT SAILING

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Care and Maintenance Tips Advice about sail care with Mark Bradford

S

ails are wings that use the wind to generate a force to move a boat. It is therefore very important to keep them well-maintained to maximise the power that they are able to produce. ● Avoid prolonged flogging of sails. Flogging and leech flutter can degrade a sail’s performance before its time. Minimise motoring into the wind with flapping sails. After hoisting sails, trim promptly and steer a course so the sails fill rather than flog. ● Adjust your leech line to eliminate leech flutter.

Tension it just a touch more than necessary to stop the flutter. The tension needed will change as the breeze increases and as the jib sheet is adjusted.

Do not over-tension the leech line; if the leech becomes hooked, ease it off. Proper placement of genoa cars will also prevent leech flogging on your genoa . ● Use your sails in their designed wind ranges. If you do not know the recommended wind ranges for your sails, contact your North sailmaker. ● Avoid unnecessary contact between sails and standing rigging. Avoid releasing the genoa sheet late in a tack. Backwinding the leech against the windward spreader tip will distort the leech and can split your sail. ● To combat chafe, be sure to cover spreader ends, and check there are no exposed split pins, cotter pins, or other sharp edges around the mast, foredeck, lifelines, and turnbuckles. These can chafe and/or tear your sail. ● Make sure your sails have extra reinforcement in areas of high chafe. Spreader patches on overlapping genoas and mainsails, as well as extra chafe protection on headsails where they come in contact with mast-mounted radars and stanchions, will extend the useful life of your sail. ● When leaving the boat, ease the jib halyard,

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main halyard, and out-haul to prevent permanent luff and foot stretching. Releasing batten tension also reduces distortion at the batten ends.

● Patch minor tears as soon as possible with a pressure sensitive adhesive (PSA). Avoid using duct tape!

● Limit exposure to the sun for extended periods of time. UV rays are one of your sail’s worst enemies.

Roller furling genoas should have UV-resistant material covering the leech and foot. If you store your mainsail on the boom, make sure it is always covered when not in use.

● Check nylon/polyester downwind sails a few times each season for small tears. Catching small holes early can reduce the chance of them becoming bigger tears later on.

● Rinse your sails with fresh water and dry thoroughly before storing to prevent mildew and color bleeding in spinnakers. Rinse fittings in fresh water to help prevent corrosion. Store dry sails in a well-ventilated location. And remember, making sure they are dry is as important as the initial rinse.

Wet sails create mould issues. ● Avoid folding sails on the same fold lines so that small creases do not become permanent. ● Remove mildew stains on polyester, Spectra/ Dyneema or Vectran sails promptly. Use a mild household bleach solution with water and a soft cloth, then rinse thoroughly. DO NOT USE BLEACH ON NYLON, ARAMID, OR LAMINATED SAILS. ● To remove oil/grease stains, scrub with a cleaning product, like Simple Green, and a soft brush, then rinse. Follow with a mild soap scrub and rinse to remove the cleaning product completely from the sail. Be careful not to damage the sail with excessive scrubbing. Depending on the stain, you may not be able to remove it completely. ● Removing rust stains is tricky. We recommend that you contact your North Certified Service expert for treatment. We may not be able to completely get rid of it, but we can make sure the area is still in good working order. ● Regularly rinse sail bag zippers or lubricate with silicone spray.

● Spray luff tapes on both genoas and mainsails as they slide up the track, using a Mclube-style lubricant. This will help clean the tracks and make hoisting and dousing easier. ● Check battens for splintering. Splintered battens should be replaced, or at least taped, so the splinters do not harm the sail. ● Check luff slides and other hardware to make sure they are still securely attached to the sail. ● Check seam stitching to make sure it is still intact. UV can quickly damage certain threads. ● Regular inspection (at least once a year) will prevent small problems from becoming big ones.

You can also ask your local loft to create an onboard sail repair kit for your specific sails. ● Keep a sail log. Photographing your sails on a regular basis and logging the hours they are used will help you and your sailmaker evaluate your sail inventory seasonally.

We know that whether you race or cruise, your sails are a major investment. An annual inspection will aid significantly in extending sail life and maintaining peak performance.

North Sails proudly offers one year of sail care and service free (T&Cs apply) with the purchase of a new cruising, racing or one design sail. www.northsails.com Phone: (07) 3396 5822

JAN - MARCH 2020

BOAT SAILING

On-water events ROYAL QUEENSLAND YACHT SQUADRON

By Roselle Tenefrancia

T

he first quarter of 2020 promises a very busy one for the Royal Queensland Yacht Squadron. The RQYS will host 60 sailing events from January to March.

January 2020 will be a big Summer of Sailing for RQYS, with five national championships being run back-toback over the course of a month. RQYS will welcome over 250 sailors from the Contenders, Flying 11s, Flying Fifteens, Raceboards and Formula Board Windsurfers, and Windfoilers, to the club to compete for Australian Titles on the waters of Moreton Bay. Australian Contender Championships (6-9 Jan) The International Contender class will be back again in January for the International Contender Australian Titles, and for the 10-year anniversary of the Nationals and Worlds at RQYS. With four days of Championship Racing scheduled, sailors are looking forward to quality racing on the waters of Waterloo Bay. Australian Flying 11 Championships (12-18 Jan) The 2020 Flying 11 Nationals will be held at the Royal Qld Yacht Squadron from 12-18 January. The Regatta starts on Sunday 12 January with registration and an invitation race. Two formal races are scheduled each day from Monday to Wednesday with a lay day on Thursday 16th, followed by two more days of racing.

The presentation ceremony will take place at RQYS on Saturday 18th after the final two races.

Australian Flying Fifteen Championships (12-18 Jan) A Flying Fifteen is the original sports boat, as it is a planing keelboat. There are more than 4,000 Flying Fifteen’s around the world, and are suitable for racing on a variety of sea, estuaries, lakes and rivers. The

Australian Championship is open to all boats of the International Flying Fifteen Class, which hold a valid Flying Fifteen International (FFI) Measurement Certificate and are entered on the FFI Australia (FFIA) Register of Boats or are registered with an association established outside Australia affiliated with FFI. Australian Formula and Raceboard Windsurfing Championships (20-24 Jan) The regatta will be governed by the current Racing Rules of Sailing. The participating classes shall be Formula and Raceboard. A minimum of 5 competitors is required to constitute a division. The participating divisions shall be: for Raceboard Class – Men, Women, Youth, U23, Senior, Master, Grand Master, Veteran, 7.8m2 , Sprint; for Formula Class – Men, Women, Junior, Youth, Grand Master, Veteran, Legend, Free Formula; for Glide – Men, Women, Youth. Entry is open to all boards of the Raceboard and Formula Board classes.

In March, more events fill up the RQYS calendar. 70+ Laser 4.7 Radial and Full Rig sailors of all ages travel to RQYS to compete in the 8-9 March QLD Laser Metropolitan Championships, run by RQYS annually.

RQYS will also see 20+ Etchells on the water over the weekend of 21-22 March for the 2020 Brisbane Etchells Fleet Championships. The 33rd Moreton Bay Multihull Regatta will run over 4 days on 26-29 March, at RQYS in conjunction with Multihull Yacht Club Queensland.

Downunder Pro 2020: Australian Windfoil Championships (31 Jan-2 Feb)

Multihull Regatta

The regatta will be governed by the rules as defined in The Racing Rules of Sailing – Appendix B, Windsurfing Competition Rules (WCR). Competitors shall be financial members of the Australian Windsurfing Association or a national Class Association which is a valid member of the relevant international class association, or of the IWA. The RQYS is also the host of the Schools Racing Competition which runs annually over terms 1 and 4 of the school year. Racing will recommence 2 February with a series of fleet racing (30 – 40 pacers) and a series of team racing (15 - 20 teams) from a number of schools in Brisbane and the Gold Coast.

Australian Flying 11 Championships

Australia’s largest inflatable boat specialist 14/75 Waterway Drive Coomera QLD 4209 Dylan Lopez

T 07 5519 9653 M 0424 487 226 E dylan@siroccomarinenorth.com brig.com.au

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BOAT REVIEW

The Saona 47

THE CAPABLE CAT

By Kevin Green

T

he Saona 47 is more of the same quality from Fountaine Pajot, slotting nicely between the Helia 44 and the Saba 50, which is no bad thing because it continues the sensible theme of comfort combined with seaworthiness.

Named after a Caribbean island – where the shallowdrafted Saona 47 would be ideal for this cruising catamaran offers three levels of useable space to give cruising sailors plenty of options, while having an extensive sailplan for passage-making. Distinguishing features on the Saona includes its 9.2 metre square lounge deck and a hydraulic swim platform for those long days at anchor. Below decks, there are up to five cabins, and all these are contained in a more rounded hull shape, and generally smoother aesthetic than its two siblings mentioned earlier.

FIRST LOOK Ambling down the dock at La Grande Motte – Europe’s largest multihull show – to seek out the FP47 was quite an experience for me because the competition to this cruiser was near at hand. Debuts here included the new Leopard 45 and the Nautitech 46 Fly, so there was little room for complacency. Cruising catamarans like these and the FP47 are distinguished by being voluminous, having simple hull shapes with mini keels (rather than performance daggerboards) and layouts that are generally more suited to liveability rather than purely life under sail.

Given that most boats of this type spend the majority of their time stationary, liveability is a key point, and this is where FP often distinguishes itself. The FP design creates three levels of living space and a completely sheltered aft deck, which extends the interior living space, while the sail controls are safely located on an elevated starboard bulkhead. This layout has proved a popular design for both the Saba 50 and Helia 44, so continues on the Saona 47.

Steps from the aft deck lead to the starboard helm station where the sail controls are separated from the helm by a walkway. These steps also can have the life raft behind them for quick access. This helm station arrangement is a signature feature of the brand and differentiates it from many others. Ideal for crewed sailing, but less convenient if short-handed, it allows

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the trimmer plenty of room to work the two electric Lewmar 50s and one manual 55 winch for halyards and all sheets. Lines are tidied away in large rope bins, which avoid the passageway becoming untidy.

Behind the helm lies the main track, which sits at the end of the boom so offers maximum control of the square top mainsail. The wide bench seat at the helm seats two and the small binnacle allows movement around it – should the steerer need to dart forward to trim after switching the Garmin autopilot on. Nearby are steps to the flybridge cockpit – more than a mere sunbed as found on the smaller model – which has ample headroom under the alloy boom when at anchor.

ALL-WEATHER COCKPIT The all-weather aspect of the aft cockpit is a major feature on the Saona allowing diners to enjoy the outside table, yet be right beside the inside galley.

Wide doors and a sliding galley windows create an airy through space which is ideal for the tropics, yet can be closed during inclement weather, while the fibreglass roof allows the entire area to be enclosed with clear plastic.

Practical internal design by Isabelle Racopeau creates a very liveable space with near upright outside bulkheads to minimise sun intrusion and maximise volume. The corner lounge has a coffee table as standard, but I believe a taller one can also be fitted and the navigation station is large with main switchboard nearby in the corridor to the owner’s cabin.

Good practicalities include a swing seat at the chart table, allowing more space when needed and large opening front windows. The galley is spread across the aft part of the saloon plus an island bench that acts as a supporting bulkhead for crew when in a seaway. Clear views aft mean washing up in the double sinks should not be a big chore, and there’s a four burner gas stove with separate oven-microwave.

Good for those long cruises are the energy-efficient twin-drawer refrigeration for perishables, and there is ample cupboard space. Our boat also had the optional drawer freezer beneath the starboard pantry. All that is really lacking are fiddles on the composite worktops and smoother edges on the

bulkheads. This only slightly detracts from what is a comfortable space with abundant natural light from the large surrounding windows and skylights.

FIVE CABINS Our review boat was the three-cabin owner’s Maestro version (plus skipper’s bunk) which devoted the entire port hull to a spacious suite, sealed off by a sliding door. Alternatively and with chartering in mind, five cabins can be specified (with five bathrooms).

Stepping down into the port owner’s cabin brings you into a vast space with towering headroom, reflecting the tall topsides. These stairs cover the escape hatches – essential on any sailing catamaran – which can be opened (rather than requiring breaking in an emergency). The owner can enjoy views aft from the rectangular window over the large island bed, plus there is an opening porthole for that welcome through-breeze at anchor.

Moving into the cabin’s centre, the vanity desk is dual purpose and surrounded by deep lacquered cupboards with others finished in light Alpi wood, while the large screen television manually swings out for viewing while in bed. Moving forward brings me to the bathroom, which has a huge longitudinal shower cubicle – with opening portlight – while a separate electric toilet is in the bow. Beyond this is a large bow locker where light and bulky equipment can be stored. Ideally a full height water-tight bulkhead would be incorporated here, but a lower one is incorporated, I believe.

JAN - MARCH 2020

BOAT REVIEW

Saona 47 Specifications: Length 13.94 m / 46 ft Beam: 7.70 m Displacement: 13,800 kg Draft: 1.3 m Main Sail area: 75 m² Volvo Penta 2 x 50 HP sail drives (60 HP option) Water: 700 l Fuel: 2 x 470 l

MEDITERRANEAN SAIL The Med is typically a hard task master for sailing yachts, as it either blows too much or too little, and our sail was the latter with 7.0 knots gently caressing the smooth seas. To cope with these conditions and minimise engine hours, a wide sail plan is required.

So our Saona 47 came with a large Code 0 sheathed inside a snuffer for quick deployment and dousing.

Once we had hoisted the Code 0 on its furling line – the halyard is at the mast base – the sock was peeled back to allow the sail to fill while on the helm. I eased the catamaran off the wind to about 160 degrees, pushing our speed to 10 knots.

Climbing over to the guest accommodation in the starboard hull brings you into an equally comfortable area with spacious semi-island bed and ensuite aft.

Forward is an athwartships island bed with corridor bathroom. The large cupboard in the corridor can also house the optional washer-dryer – which runs from the 11kw Onan generator. Under-bed storage is another good feature in all cabins. Beyond this is a crew cabin in this port bow area that comes with a manual toilet and single bunk.

WALKING SPACE Flat topsides are a major attraction for cruising cat buyers, a fact that Fountaine Pajot is acutely aware of, which is why the Saona has wide sidedecks with flush hatches, and a foredeck for partying on.

A smaller trampoline area in favour of larger nacelle creates space for three sunpads but the practicalities are not neglected. A deep central locker houses a vertical Lewmar windlass/capstan which has a short run to the nacelle front where the anchor sits – so no rode to endanger children or unwary guests. A second roller is available for another more-ground tackle as well while the fibreglass bowsprit proved long enough to give good separation between the Code 0 and the forestay. Sizeable cleats are all around, including midships were the other good features on the Saona. Looking aft, the hydraulic teak clad swim platform is a 24,000 Euro option worth having as it doubles as a dinghy bench.

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Looking at the rig, our review boat – hull one – came with a carbon mast and versatile sail plan on the cabinmounted spars. A carbon Maxam mast (from Poland) was attached to an alloy Z Spars boom with guttering and lazy jacks for gathering the incidences mainsail.

The sail was panelled using Hydronet sailcloth – a tightly woven polyester mixed with dyneema – which allows both easy sail handling with longevity and minimum stretch sailcloth. “You save about 15% weight with the carbon mast, which adds stiffness and reduces pitching,” FP director Yves de Kerangat told me. Single wire shrouds held up the rig, with large chain plates to spread the load of the squared top mainsail.

RACOPEAU-DESIGNED HULL Improving performance is an ongoing facet even for sedate cruising catamarans, so the company has collaborated with the iconic, the Berret-Racoupeau house, to optimise the Saona. The more curvaceous topsides are matched by a similarly shaped nacelle and inner gunwhales to reduce wave drag. Hull and deck construction is by infusion – to optimise the fibre/resin ratio that impregnates the foam core while the saloon roof is injection-moulded. Underneath, moulded mini keels give directional stability and modestly sized twin rudders control the Saona. The volume in the aft of the hulls is apparent when I open an engine hatch, which showed the 50 HP four-cylinder Volvo saildrive to be rather dwarfed by its surroundings, leaving plenty of space in the port bay for the Onan generator and filters. Also, quick access is available here for the steering crossbar and rudder stocks.

The elevated starboard helm gave me clear views of main, and the Code 0, while just in front of me, the crew trimmed the sheets. Being separate from the binnacle prevents the steerer from trimming the sheets, but this layout does allow plenty of room for crew to do their job.

So when it came to gybing the Code 0, I concentrated on turning the fairly large steel steering wheel while my crewmate trimmed and a third person walked the clew around the forestay as we changed heading. On port, tack trimming was done from a remote winch near the port quarter (while starboard was managed from the coachroof bank of winches). Wanting to sail nearer the wind, the snuffer sock was easily pulled down over the Code 0 and the long sausage of sail dropped on the foredeck, while my crewmate unfurled the genoa, which allowed me to point the cat at 50 degrees apparent, with our speed slowing to 4 knots.

Short-handed in these light conditions, the engines would likely be spun up so I did so, reaching a top speed of 8.8 knots with the Volvo 50HP spinning at 2,000 RPM, while dropping the revs to 2,200 still gave a nippy cruising speed of 7.9 knots (but no fuel burn figures were shown). Our Med afternoon showed the Saona 47 to be a very capable cruising catamaran, reflecting Fountaine Pajot’s vast experience in building comfortable and seaworthy boats.

Multihull Solutions Sales Office located onsite at The Boat Works Building J, Unit 1B. Phone (07) 5665 9148 Email:info@multihullsolutions.com.au 117

BOAT GUIDE JOURNEY

How to make your kids

Fall in love with boating

By Sophia Sorensen “The key to the early experiences is safety. First impressions last, so make sure the kids feel safe, and are happy to explore the multitude of activities in their own time,” says Matt.

S

owing the seeds for a lifetime love of boating can be tedious. Keeping young children safe on board, and well, on board, is often difficult enough in itself, let alone worrying whether or not they are enjoying themselves.

Gold Coast father, Matthew Lloyd, believes that getting kids into boating all lies with the parents – whether it be them introducing their child to a watersports club or simply hiring a boat during the school holidays.

“You can even start things off with a visit to your local wharf or jetty. Your kids will be entertained for hours looking at the fish under the wharf and watching the boats sail by,” Matt suggests. “And if parents aren’t confident in taking control of a boat, there are heaps of charter boat options like whalewatching, fishing charters, and scenic cruises on most waterways around Australia.”

Perhaps you are new to boating and ready to take your family out on the water, or maybe you are a seasoned pro with uninterested children. Either way, here are five sure-fire tactics to cultivate a positive attitude towards boating for your kids while on board.

Local manager of Cruise Gold Coast, Mel, believes the key is to make sure their very first experience is a positive one — which sometimes means throwing them in the deep end. “When I was first introduced to boating, I didn’t know the first thing about it.”

Mel recalls. “However, my first experience was a positive one — lots of learning and fun. There’s nothing quite like the feeling at the helm!”

BRING THE RIGHT THINGS ON BOARD Stay one step ahead of impending boredom. Make sure to pack things that will keep your children entertained. Their favourite toys, colouring-in books and pencils, a board game, pool noodles, fishing rods and snorkel equipment all are a great place to start.

Matt finds that a lot of kids naturally love being on the water and learning through experience. “Take some left-over stale bread to feed the fish, perhaps a fishing rod, a bucket and spade and some water sports equipment if they are feeling adventurous,” he recommends.

Mel suggests packing inflatables, snorkels and a big imagination. “Oh, and snacks! Can’t forget those!” Mel exclaims, leading us into our next key suggestion.

PACK GREAT SNACKS

SET THE ATMOSPHERE

Food is the way to everyone’s heart. Is there a better way to coax your kids onboard and hype them up for a day on the water than home-baked goods?

Are your children going to fall in love with boating if they are told to stay quiet, sit still and enjoy the serenity? It is unlikely. You know what will excite or energise your young ones, so make sure you bring this onto the boat. Maybe it is their favourite music, a cheerful and happy mood, a celebratory day out to reward them for their good behaviour.

Keep things healthy, but still delicious. Remember, this is more than just a meal; this is a form of bribery. Pasta salads, zucchini slice, corn on the cob, sandwiches, muffins, fruit kebab sticks, and energy balls all make for a great snack to pop into the esky. Remember to save the best for last, in case things go haywire.

It is also important to explain safety, and ensure your children feel secure and at ease in the vessel.

This tactic will even work on the least boat-loving adult friends of yours.

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MAKE IT SOCIAL Bring the next playdate up a notch and invite your children’s friends on board to join in on the fun.

What better way to show your child the freedom a boat provides than having your kids’ friends to play with and letting them create their own fun with their little games and fun. Bringing their friends can take the pressure off you and let you relax while they entertain themselves! It’s a win-win.

Mel finds that the turning point for people to become a boat lover is often the moment they realise the freedom a boat provides. “It’s literally like a new place on earth where you forget everything and just live in the moment,” she says.

“Boating for me became my escape. The ability to discover new places, and go where many can’t go is incredibly alluring.”

TRY OUT WATER SPORTS Stand up paddling, kayaking, tubing, wakeboarding, water-skiing — the list goes on. If your kids are a little older and ready for something slightly more adventurous, we suggest giving them more freedom and tools to create their fun through their own games and experiments.

“There are so many adventurous places that you can only get to by water. If you’re not out there having a go, you’re missing out on a lot of what our great country has to offer,” Matt states.

Whether it be taking the kids around a sandbank on a stand-up paddleboard for fifteen minutes and letting them jump off and play, or taking them for a spin on a tube or donut off the back of the boat, the key is to show your children the different activities they can enjoy with a boat.

When you boat with your family, it is important to make sure it is an enjoyable day out for each individual. Pay attention to what each person enjoys doing and try to cater for these activities over the day.

Minimise the everyday distractions of the world and focus on your family’s quality time with a day out on the boat. It is time to begin that new chapter and show your kids what boating is all about.

JAN - MARCH 2020

Quality Pre-owned Multihulls

FOR SALE 2002 FP Athena 38 -“Catacaos” $249,500 AUD Lying: Gold Coast, QLD

2006 Seawind 1160 - ”Tropical Sunset” $329,000 AUD Lying: Gold Coast, QLD

2017 FP Lucia 40 - “Rise N Shine” 325,000 EUR Lying: Greece

2007 Rayvin 30 “Diamond Sky” $215,000 AUD Lying: Gold Coast, QLD

1995 Crowther Super Shockwave 43 $175,000 AUD Lying: Gold Coast, QLD

2012 FP Salina 48 Evolution - “Zee Kiwi” 430,000 EUR Lying: Preveza, Greece

2012 Greg Young 60 - “Stardust” $2,395,000 AUD Lying: Mooloolaba, QLD

2011 Catana 65 Carbon Infusion $1,300,000 USD Lying: French Polynesia

2003 Lagoon 570 - “Sumore” $549,000 USD Lying: Whangarei, NZ

2018 FP Lucia 40 - “Mon Desir” 389,000 EUR Lying: Leros, Greece

2015 NEEL 45 - “Peikea” 395,000 EUR Lying: Whangarei, NZ

2003 Lagoon 410 S2 - “Okeanos” 198,000 EUR Lying: Noumea, New Cal

2014 Lagoon 52 - “Suite 2” $1,250,000 AUD Lying: Southport, QLD

1994 Farrier F9AX - “Outer Limits” $69,000 AUD Lying: Gold Coast, QLD

2010 FP Mahe 36 - “Skedaddle” $339,000 AUD Lying: Airlie Beach, QLD

2011 Lagoon 560 - “Laurena Delta” 750,000 EUR Lying: Noumea, New Cal

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33 - 45 Parkyn Parade Mooloolaba, QLD, 4557 Tollfree: 1300 855 338 Ph: +61 (0)7 5452 5164 info@multihullsolutions.com.au

The Boat Works Building J, Unit 1B, 1 The Boat Works Drive Coomera, QLD, 4209 Ph: +61 (0)7 5665 9148 info@multihullsolutions.com.au

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ASIA | PACIFIC

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Sydney · Phone +61-(0)2-9936 1670 · pantaenius.com.au To determine if our insurance products are right for you please access our PDS from our website. AFSL 410502 - ABN 95148013085

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JAN - MARCH 2020