Whittley Interview

Exclusive Interview With Alan Whittley WHITTLEY CR 2800

By Rowan Stewart

The sublime CR 2800 cruiser combines comfort and class, and is the culmination of decades of innovation by a proud Aussie family company. We had a chat with Whittley Marine Group Director of Sales & Marketing ALAN WHITTLEY who, as his name suggests, knows more than a thing or two about this very special boat.

WHAT INSPIRED THE DESIGN OF THE CR 2800?

The design concept was born out of the popular Whittley Cruisemaster 700, which was the last boat designed by our company founder, Jim Whittley, with the brief to design the largest legally trailerable maxi-trailer cruiser. This meant it had to be under the legal towing width of 2.5 meters.

We wanted to build on the success of the Cruisemaster 700, but make the new model larger. The boat was designed using the latest CAD computer technology, allowing the design team to move through the boat and maximise every centimetre of usable space in the craft.

Because the boat was specifically designed for Australia’s unique trailerboating lifestyle, many features such as air flow, live-aboard luxury, and weekend usability were given prominence from the outset. Unsurprisingly, the entire Whittley team is extremely proud of what we’ve created.

WHAT ARE THE BEST FEATURES OF THE CR 2800?

There are so many handy innovations, and so many luxurious attributes, that it’s hard to pick just a few. The sliding sunroof, when combined with the expansive rear canopy, allows for greater air flow and protection from the elements. When teamed with the full-length hard top, it makes for a really comfortable experience when behind the steering wheel.

The stand-up toilet and shower area are ideal for an extended stay out on the water, and really add to the resort-style feel of the CR 2800. In fact, I love everything about the well-appointed and luxurious cabin, and it really is a wonderful place to spend time in.

I’m also particularly impressed by the unique stern drive configuration, which allows for maximised usable area on the rear platform. There are so many fantastic facets that I could talk about them all day without doing justice to this very special boat. Show. The boat was featured on Good Morning America because of its green approach.

WHAT TYPE OF BOATING DO YOUR CUSTOMERS DO WITH A CR 2800?

The CR 2800 model attracts many different types of customers, from politicians and famous celebrities, to everyday Aussie families and day boaters. One aspect that’s very appealing about the CR 2800 lifestyle is the boat’s ability to be towed nearly anywhere. You can literally use it as a caravan and tour Australia, without being crammed in among a bunch of campers. Instead, you can access your own private waterway with a beautiful beachfront view.

When you have a maxi trailer boat you can explore different waterways, so you aren’t stuck in one location like you would be with a moored boat. That’s always been the key advantage of this Aussie-made model. With the CR 2800, you can head anywhere from the Whitsundays in Queensland to the Abrolhos Islands in Western Australia.

HOW DOES IT FEEL WHEN YOU SEE SOMEONE OUT ON THE WATER, ENJOYING THE CR 2800?

I always feel a sense of satisfaction when I catch a glimpse of someone enjoying their Whittley boat, and the feedback is invariably positive. It’s very rewarding to see the boat-building process come together, from a drum of resin to the on-water handover. We take a lot of pride in what we do, and that’s why we put our family name on the side of every boat.

Whittley is quite unique, being the only marine group in the country that’s also the manufacturer and dealer for its own product. With offices in 5 states, Whittley offers inhouse post-sale customer service divisions. This ensures that the end-user experience is one of the best in the industry, and has seen our brand continue to expand and grow its market share.

"It's the only maxi-trailer cruiser on the market that was designed in Australia for our unique boating lifestyle."

and features. Right now, our design and tooling team are working on an extended swim platform option, further improving the usability that the unique stern drive configuration offers. It's like a veranda for your boat.

Volvo also has some new engine technology available, and we're working closely with them to incorporate that into the CR 2800. We can't wait to bring it to the Australian public. But you'll have to watch this space for further information, because we live in an exciting era for marine engine manufacturers as well as builders, with a focus on more environmentallyfriendly, green-powered engines.

WHY SHOULD A PROSPECTIVE BUYER CONSIDER THE CR 2800?

There are four key reasons why consumers should contemplate buying a Whittley CR 2800. Firstly, it's the only maxi-trailer cruiser on the market that was designed in Australia for our unique boating lifestyle. It's not some model plucked from a production line in Europe or America, and modified by the local dealer to suit our market. It's 100% designed and built in Melbourne. That makes a huge difference.

Secondly, it’s legally trailerable and can be towed almost anywhere at any time, with a suitable tow vehicle. There's no need to comply with overwidth load restrictions, like nearly every competing imported boat in its class, so you can enjoy being out on the water without the hassle.

Thirdly, the boat comes packaged with a high-quality Mackay trailer, which has been custom-made to fit the boat's hull. When combined with the included fully freshwater-cooled Volvo Penta stern drive, the CR 2800 offers an unrivalled experience.

Finally, with Whittley, you’ll deal with one company from the start of the sales process to the on-water handover. The post-sales support is handled by the group’s service divisions. We’re here to help you every step of the way. We offer a unique boat-buying experience, via factoryowned dealerships in all major states. Purchasing a CR 2800 is simple, straightforward, and, of course, exciting. WHITTLEY (QLD) - BOAT SALES FACILITY

Queensland’s leading trailerable fibreglass boat sales facility, Whittley Queensland (QLD), has a permanent display of over 10 boats at the bustling marine hub of the Coomera Marine Precinct at The Boat Works. Offering on-water boat tests, first time user training and a customer service division with mobile and on-site marine engine servicing to the Gold Coast and Greater Brisbane regions. For more information on all new Whittley boat sales, contact Laurie Jackson on 0409 830 078. For all boat service enquiries, contact Chris Nicholson on 0411 161 993. www.whittleyboats.com.au

DEMAND PAVES THE WAY FOR MORE MARINE TRADES & SERVICES

We all want to get outdoors and enjoy more family time together. Be it a paddle craft, yacht, sailboat and/or catamaran through to a powerboat or superyacht, our trades and service professionals are equipped to cater to all facets of marine maintenance and repairs, even new rebuilds.

“Our industry consists of small family businesses employing local workers supporting local communities. All working collaboratively to achieve the end result of a successful day out on the water,” says Shane Subichin, general manager at The Boat Works. Rising to the demand, 2021 welcomed an increase in even more investment into major marine infrastructure, paving the way for more marine trades within the additional purpose-built workshops, and complementing and adding to the talented marine trades and services, now exceeding 80+ individual businesses. We offer clients a collective of marine trade professionals to choose from. We recently welcomed the well-known team from Bradford Marine Services, along with prop and running gear specialist Watson Engineering Services, who have both expanded their offer and have now set up shop onsite at The Boat Works North Yard.

It is an exciting evolution for all! 2021 has certainly welcomed a shot in the arm for the local industry, with a boom and demand for more trades and services. New to the comprehensive facility are the likes of Superyacht Solutions (high-calibre painting and refinishing services), Onboard Electrical (qualified marine electricians and technicians, and Furuno 2021 Dealer of the year), DBM (covering every detail and every facet of marine maintenance), SeaDek - GCCanvas (for flooring with authorised fabricators on site). Major expansion and additional diversity is now offered from engineers of Stella who have consolidated their headquarters to be on site, along with stainless steel fabricators with new laser and CNC services from Choice Stainless, upholsterers Bayline Marine Covers, shipwrights and marine refit specialist Yachtsmen Refit & Service, along with marineware and Ultra Anchor suppliers Ultra Marine Products. Ocean Degree Yacht Services have boosted their service offerings providing a level of service to all leisure boat owners that are tailored to suit. From project management — refits and new builds — with the options in between for CNC, CAD design and customisation recently undertaking a number of upgrades to stabilisation systems on a range of various sized boats.

143 Boat Building service options have evolved and diversified into Mechanical to further add to their reputation as the one-stop shop for all marine service and maintenance needs. The team also cover new boat builds, antifouling and detailing, major structural repairs, teak and synthetic decking, gel coat and paint repairs, refit and restoration and bow thruster installations.

“We are thrilled to see the continued investment and diversity of these talented marine professionals. This not only offers a welcomed renewal of energy to the boatyard, but more choices and transparency for our clients,” says Shane.

MARINE CHANDLERY If you have not noticed already, the Marine Trade Supplies & Chandlery expanded yet again this year and now offers even more choices of boating supplies and chandlery. The onsite megastore is open to the public and covers every aspect of boat repairs, maintenance and supplies. Products range from boating accessories and deck hardware, paint, fibreglass, resin, plywood sheeting and thermo-lite board, to a full selection of marine safety equipment, all detailing supplies, antifoul, anchors, plumbing, electrical, LED lighting and Australian-made specialist ropes and so much more. NOT JUST A BOATYARD…. CAFES, BARS & RESTAURANTS, even BARBERS! Looking for a new destination for waterfront dining or a new café option? The Galley Restaurant overlooking the marina provides a great family dining experience for breakfast, brunch or lunch set within a memorable 1700’s nautical-themed venue.

Espresso Twenty5 café is renowned as a welcoming pit stop, offering an open-air atmosphere with cool vibes and easy parking. Serving up quality affordable food teamed with a motoring museum with nostalgic and retro cars and bikes on display, there’s even a barber available next door at Hair Works for your convenience.

Regular car meets are a highlighted feature and one not to miss! Keep updated via their social pages. Gold Coast’s newest café, Kokomo Kitchen + Bar, is located in the North Yard of the boatyard and overlooks the Superyacht Basin on the Coomera River. Kokomo is set within a tropical hideaway, an escape from the daily grind. Providing a choice of relaxed outdoor dining spaces with a unique point of difference. With its own private beach and even a sunken pirate ship as the main feature of the venue, the kids and 4-legged friends will love the new venue. Book in to arrive by jet ski or boat, and grab your bacon & egg roll, or sit in and enjoy eggs benedict. Book in with Kokomo 0432 574 108.

TOTAL YACHT SERVICES

SUPERCHARGED BOATYARD

There has never been such an unprecedented demand for boats since the start of the pandemic, with used boat sales up 50%, and new boat sales up 30%, if not more. Family businesses that make up the boating industry’s marine trade professionals are seeing the supercharged renewed growth and are working to meet the demand. The boatyard is seeing the influx and also meeting the demand evolving with the further investment to expand yet again. The ever-evolving Boatyard & Marina has welcomed yet another dimension to the 55-acre comprehensive resort for your boat. Opening a dedicated 5,000sqm of additional hardstand has provided a welcome opportunity for the cruising community to not only cruise together, but a chance to now work together on the hardstand. The footprint will accommodate up to 16 cruising catamarans and monohulls. This workspace is ideal for cruising yacht owners to undertake their own antifoul and repair work, gathering with like-minded sailors, complete with a liveaboard lounge, ensuites, free laundry and even a courtesy car. “It’s the ideal ‘Cruising HQ’ for cruising customers who can meet others from around the region and the world, take advantage of the fresh produce growing on site, bathrooms, laundry, recycled water plus access to the Super Chandlery and access to all the trades and resources in the Marine Precinct,” says Shane.

143 Boat Building

Everything you need

New Boat Builds Major Structural Repairs Antifouling and Detailing Timber and Fibreglass Repairs Teak and Synthetic Decking Gel Coat and Paint Repairs Hull Re-sprays Refit and Restoration Bow Thruster Installs Engineering and Mechanical Marine Lubricant Distribution Engine and Bow Thruster Sales Call Ryan on 0451 229 247 143boatbuilding.com.au

PUSHING THE BOATS OUT

There is also a growing demand from larger vessels which are rising in number in our region. Recently, we set the record for the heaviest vessel ever to be hauled out of the water on the Gold Coast – the 292-tonne, 150-foot (45.7m) Benetti superyacht, Mistress. The Boat Works’ team took just two hours to lift the vessel out of the Coomera River to the hardstand for Mistress to then undergo a brief period of maintenance.

“This is a historic milestone for The Boat Works and the Gold Coast,” says Shane Subichin, general manager at The Boat Works. Our 300-tonne lift we call ‘Rhino’ has proven itself a very versatile machine that can adapt to any vessel.”

Oceanic Marine Australian Built Frames N6, 199 Beattie Rd, Coomera 4209 PH: 07 5561 8616 There is increasing demand from larger vessels, which are rising in number in the region. The influx in supply has welcomed additional major marine infrastructure with construction underway on Stage 4 of The Boat Works. The North Yard will comprise 4 x 20-metre high sheds that will accommodate massive, tri-deck and flybridge motor yachts, both commercial and privately-owned.

The new Mega sheds, 5m larger than the existing Super Sheds, will be ready for occupancy in February 2022, if not earlier.

For more information on Trades – Services – Marine Retail + Boats for Sale review our website www.theboatworks.com.au

RodTwitchin REFIT PROJECTCougar Cat

An interior refit including teak planking

Mr. Peter Rogers is the owner of a Cougar Cat 3400 built in Australia in 2002. He invited RTM to visit the catamaran located at Horizon Shores Marina for an introduction and inspection of his Cougar. Pete’s instruction was clear: he wanted the vessel to look clean and modern inside and out, given its dated and somewhat commercial appearance at that time. This project was a full team effort, which used all of RTM’s resources from shipwrights, painters, engineering and minor fabrication to our administration staff, including Nick from Liquid Electrical, and Rod from Stripe N FX. It took approximately four months for the primary agreed works, and then various minor “three percenters” were conducted so the entire vessel reflected the refit work. WHY DID RTM ACCEPT THE JOB? It was quite apparent within the first five minutes of meeting with Pete that he knew what he wanted. He was happy to listen to all our advice, based on 35 years of industry experience. We knew this was going to be an amazing transformation from start to finish. WHY DID PETE WANT TO REFIT RATHER THAN REPLACE? This vessel was a perfect canvas for a full refit. Cougar Cats are well-known performance motor catamarans that offer great seakeeping capabilities, an abundance of volume for their length, and fuelefficiency given their two streamlined hulls. WHAT WERE THE WORKS UNDERTAKEN? The vessel was launched by our ever-helpful team at The Boat Works. We did a hard washdown and then straight into the refit shed. Our team then started removing all the external hardware ready for painting prep. The shipwrights started removing all the internal fit-out as this was being completely reconstructed with a new and more suitable general arrangement to suit Pete’s needs. The engineers took to task with an extensive list of engineering and fabrication type works. PAINT - The vessel's exterior was painted grey to the hull and white to the decks and superstructure. The vessel’s new cabinetry and interior areas that weren’t to be soft covered were also painted white in keeping with the modern and clean look. ENGINE/PUMPS/POWER - The engines were fully serviced, with the gearboxes rebuilt. New freshwater tanks were constructed and installed along with replumbing of the entire vessel. All vessel systems were either replaced and or serviced. INTERIOR/HELM - The helm was removed from the vessel and modified within the workshop, with the view of being reshaped to accommodate the throttles in a much more usable position and to declutter all gauges, as 2 Raymarine screens were being installed. The result was a modern and clean set-up but very practical for the operator. We installed 3 opening hopper windows forward of the superstructure, 2 aft and a new double opening door arrangement to enter from the aft deck. Our team constructed all new cabinetry throughout, which also housed the new appliances complemented by a new quick release upholstered headliner system. This covered the previous visible ribs running athwartships to the underside of the deckhead. Given the amount of work captured within the project and how it was transforming, RTM offered Pete teak planking to the vessel’s interior out of goodwill with the understanding of how this would finish off the interior and support the aesthetics of all other modifications. This also kept the teak theme from the custom swim platform, through the cockpit and into the accommodation. We even managed to scribe the vessel name into a section of teak in the forward accommodation and fill it with black sika, which is a great feature. EXTERIOR - The vessel’s exterior was fully painted, with attention required to the hull bottom below the waterline prior to the new antifoul system being applied. Our team designed and constructed a custom swim platform which is light and very strong, incorporating two hinged flaps aft of the outboard to allow trimming of the engines when not in use, very unique and very practical. ELECTRICAL/SOUND SYSTEM - Pete engaged Nick from Liquid Electrical who did a wonderful job sorting out the AC & DC systems, coupled with the electronics, sound systems and all things electrical. PLAN/BUDGET There was a tight budget that was somewhat adhered to for the scope of work. However, Pete’s enthusiasm for the best result upon completion increased the budget. Nevertheless, it is fair to say that the cost was fair and reasonable and a direct reflection for the result with aesthetics, performance and practicability in mind. VIRTUAL COMMUNICATION WITH CLIENT Throughout this and other current projects, the ability to communicate with our clients via facetime calling or simple picture messaging allows them to keep updated and feel part of the project regardless of their geographic location. As they say, “A picture tells a thousand words!” WHAT IS THE BEST THING ABOUT THIS PROJECT? The greatest reward for me, on behalf of our team, was receiving a phone call from Pete towards the end of the project with him being very emotional and thanking RTM for making his vessel something he can really be proud of when taking out his family and dear friends. We get up every day with the view of helping people any way possible and this is a great reflection of that! Follow RTM on Facebook & Instagram to keep up with all our professional and project works or visit rtmarine. com.au to gain an overview of our company. Contact Rod Twitchin Marine for any works required or simply to discuss any nautical matters. www.rtmarine.com.au

Project manager Rod Twitchin is a surveyor, engineer and ship master

Updated helm and electronics

Kepting the teak theme to the custom swim platform

GOLD COAST CANVAS

MARINE TRIMMING & FITOUT SERVICES

Flybridge clear enclosures

Gold Coast Canvas are an experienced team with over 16 years in the textile trades. Based at The Boat Works Coomera, they are a ONE-STOP-SHOP for all marine covers, upholstery and Seadek marine flooring.

MARINE TRIMMING AND FITOUT SERVICES You can drop your boat off, or they can come to your boat for their complete services. All work is completed to the very highest standard, using only the best materials sourced from around the world. Match or compliment your existing structure with customised colours in all materials, with eye-catching products and services, such as Seadek marine flooring, CAD setup and design service, CNC cutting service, custom upholstery and interiors, super yacht refits, wakeboard boat interiors, flybridge clear enclosures, clears and carpets, storm sheets and full boat covers, mesh boat screens inside and outside, bimini tops and stainless steel bar fabrication, 4×4 canopies, HF PVC welding services, commercial upholstery, marine bbq covers and most other outside covers. If you want someone to look after your next project, from start to finish, all from one company, then look no further. Gold Coast Canvas do the whole lot!

GIVE YOUR BOAT THE SEADEK TREATMENT SeaDek is a UV-protected non-absorbent foam, featuring an innovative, textured micro-dot surface for enhanced non-slip characteristics. Its nonskid, closed-cell PE/EVA products offer safe and comfortable alternatives to moulded non-skid, paint-on textures and other marine traction products.

Formulated with a 3M™ acrylic based high-bond pressure sensitive adhesive, SeaDek’s robust, peeland-stick application makes it easy to install and requires no mounting of hardware. Easy to clean and stain resistant, SeaDek also provides protection for boat surfaces, especially in high traffic areas. Other benefits that SeaDek offers include; exceptional traction even when wet, unparalleled comfort when standing or walking on boat surfaces, shock absorption, which decreases fatigue, protection for boat surfaces against scratches, chips and dents, noise reduction characteristics – ideal for fishermen.

Custom upholstery and interiors

Easy to install and customisable, SeaDek is available in a variety of sizes, thicknesses, and colours. For more information about your next project, contact Gold Coast Canvas, for marine trimmings and fitout services. An authorised SeaDek fabricator and installer.

Ph: 0402 037 141 or info@goldcoastcanvas.com.au

BRISBANE GOLD COAST

Millennium Abrasive Blasting is new to the coatings removal scene. MAB has been trading for 3 years, and worked extremely hard to maintain a high level of workmanship. We cater for...

-Antifoul & Coatings removal & reapplication -Coatings System removal & re-application -Coatings Diaries are always avaliable and provided on request -All Coatings will be to custom Specifications

Our Specialty is Commercial & Industrial Refinishing, MAB are completely mobile and have offices at Rivergate Marina | Bisbane and also the Boat Works | Coomera.

We carry four complete units that include 425H Sullair machines, 400 Air Preps, and Blastone Schmidt 6.5 cuft Blast units. Our pricing is competitive and will complete all projects in the time allocated.

Washing Your Trailer for a longer life

By Jone Temo of Oceanic 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 are in quite good nick all over, while a couple of the 'newer' trailers appear to be falling apart, here's why. 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 this object is going to require a good clean often, to ensure the harmful residues left behind by water are kept to a minimum. 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 of water 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. If you had the trailer in saltwater, use a cleaning agent with salt-removing properties. An old small house broom is a great tool to access 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 quality corrosion inhibitor (such as Inox) on the trailer's moving parts and joints is highly recommended. Many trailers have drainage holes along the length of the frame rails to ensure water escapes and doesn't sit inside the metal. It's 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 isn't 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 rails with old rags, and fill each rail with a good quality salt-removing cleaning agent mixture with water. 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.

The moving parts of a trailer are most often fitted with grease nipples or lubrication points for adding fresh grease. Use a good quality marine-grade grease every few trips to push fresh grease through, then 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. Give any sliding items such as suspension parts and jockey wheels a spray of a lubricating corrosion inhibitor, or a light smear of grease occasionally. Your coupling should also receive attention, with a good soak with your cleaning solution followed by a spray with a lubricating corrosion inhibitor on the moving parts. The grease nipple will require a squeeze of clean grease from time to time. 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's still a good idea to wash the lights off well and spray the back of them with a good moisture and corrosion inhibitor. Giving the plug at the other end a quick wipe and spray is also recommended to keep the electrical connectors in good condition. Cleaning your boat or PWC trailer after use, at the same time as your vessel, is a good habit to practice. 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. It will most likely save your hip pocket as you won't be replacing rusted or corroded components just to keep your trailer working. www.oceanictrailers.com.au

JUMBO PEGS

BOATS, POOLS & EVERYWHERE

Pack of 10 under $20

Everything Marine Australia

PROOF LOAD TESTING WITH WATER WEIGHTS

With over 60 years of experience in the marine industry, Everything Marine Australia provides a comprehensive range of services - including repair and service of all types of sail and power vessels. They are expert in working with composite materials, fabricating, machining, and insurance works. In addition to providing boat repairs, they specialise in mast repairs and rigging replacement, and vessel painting. They also offer a mobile service and are happy to travel to meet your boating needs. E verything Marine Australia are experienced in davit lift testing for survey certification, and private vessels wanting to ensure safe lifting processes.

All load-bearing structures such as davits and lifting equipment, and slings, strops, shackles, hook swivels, lifeboats and gangways, should be certified and tagged for all vessels in survey. The only way to certify a davit crane in situ is to perform a static load test to the certified working loads of the crane and associated equipment.

Load testing on all lifting davits, even on private vessels, is recommended to ensure safe working operation and prevention of failure.

When a davit control failure occurs, it can cause slow lowering of the load, catastrophic dropping of the load, damage to tenders or the mother ship, injury to personnel, or worse.

On private vessels Everything Marine recommends that this type of testing be carried out every slipping period. This includes a visual inspection of lifting tackle and davit lines, and a complete load proof test and certification as recommended by davit manufacturers.

Everything Marine are equipped to test static and dynamic davits, using water-filled proof load bags to a capacity of 3 tonnes, and specialise in the testing of Nobles and Aquamare brand equipment. The team are methodical in their approach to the bag set up, with properly certified scales, shackles and slings that ensure an easy process with no possible damage to personnel or the vessel.

www.everythingmarineaustralia.com.au Everything Marine staff, accompanied by a Nobles davit technician, test a davit crane with a certified load cell above 2 custom made water bags with a capacity of 3 tonnes. The water bags are filled with sea water, overhanging the water and clear of the vessel. The water weight is added gradually and is checked in stages. Once the proof load is reached the davit can then be tested for lifting, lowering, and slewing. To empty the bags, they are lowered into the water and inverted. Usually, the filling of the bags is done with the vessel’s sea water firefighting pumps which also provides a good opportunity to test them under full working loads.

WE’VE GOT THE WORKS

60+ Marine Trade professionals on-site.

The complete A-Z of Marine related services who share our commitment to quality & service.

Did you know we also provide... • Marine Training + Recreational/PWC Licensing? • Boat Sales Showrooms + Displays

Marine Industry Business Specialist Mick Godwin Explains DO YOU HAVE A JOB OR A BUSINESS TO SELL?

KNOW WHERE THE VALUE IS AND SHOWCASE IT

When it comes to selling, one of the most common misunderstandings a vendor has about their business is that they even have a business to start with. Too often, vendors go to market without proper guidance from their broker and try to sell their job for top dollar. Asking buyers to stump up their hard-earned, to then go and work 50hrs per week in their new 'business' or risk losing it all is an audacious request, to say the least. But, the good news is, regardless of your involvement in your business, it does hold value; you just need to know where that value is and showcase it.

My name is Mick Godwin, and over the years, I've heard every type of interpretation for what a business means. And that interpretation will be different depending on your angle, whether you are the vendor, the accountant or the buyer. As an owner, it only really matters that you understand the difference between a business you work in and a business you run once it's time to sell. What an accountant told your mate at the pub regarding business value doesn't matter much for a buyer. The purchase price will be significantly different depending on what you're selling, even if it makes you less.

Let's talk numbers. Kevin, a made up name, is looking to sell his chandlery business, Kevin's Chandlery. Kevin's Chandlery has afforded Kevin a decent living over the past 10 years. He's been able to pay his bills, take four weeks holidays per year, earns $150,000 p.a. and is at the point where he only works Tuesday - Saturday. He's got a team of 10 employees who help him keep the business running. In this instance, Kevin has a job, and the value of Kevin's business will be approached on a PEBITDA basis (proprietors earnings before interest tax depreciation, amortisation). Rarely, and I mean rarely, does a listed business assessed on a PEBITDA basis achieve higher than a capitalisation rate of 50%. In other words, a multiple of 2. With this in mind, and ignoring many other factors that drive value, Kevin's Chandlery may sell for a maximum of $300,000. However, if I was a betting man and I'm not (I prefer guarantees over chances), I would expect a more modest result around the $225,000 - $250,000 mark.

Now, let's go back in time ten years and assume Kevin entered my Sales Ready Program. Same business, even the same profit, but Kevin spends his days doing something else and only has a meeting each week or month with his general manager. Usually, the meeting consists of his general manager informing him which employees are hitting their KPIs and what stock should be promoted and sold. Kevin hasn't needed to hire anyone in a few years as the systems he built into the business support his manager in hiring right. The financials are crystal clear, which gives buyers confidence in what they are buying. And he has integrated his CRM with marketing to ensure old customers come back and new customers are satisfied. This Kevin has a business, and businesses are always worth more than jobs. So even assuming he brings in a little less profit than 'job' Kevin, he'll achieve more on the market. However, the reality is this Kevin would be earning a little, if not a lot more.

To put it succinctly, our first Kevin hires staff to help him do his job successfully; the second Kevin has a business that allows his employees to do

Find out if your business is sale ready

their job successfully. Using our smarter, more successful Kevin's business and ignoring all other value drivers, a business will usually achieve at least a 3 multiple despite its profits. In this case, a full $150,000 or more than his job version.

Transforming your job into a business has no drawbacks. More time, more money and a higher selling price result from owning a business rather than a job. If you would like to learn more about how to prepare your business for sale to achieve your highest sale price or get your business on the market, give me a call via the details below. I'm based on the Gold Coast, but I look after the buying and selling of companies right across the country because the horizon is the limit when dealing in the marine and tourism industry.

For a confidential consulatation, call 0416 638 154 or email your details directly to mickgodwin@benchmarkbusiness.com.au

BOOMING DEMAND FOR WORKERS MARINE INDUSTRY JOBS SITE

We are very lucky to live on the Gold Coast, surrounded by water where the community can enjoy the natural beauty and the recreational benefits that it provides. Pursuits like swimming, surfing, kayaking and boating are some of the activities that many of us regularly participate in as part of the blessed lifestyle we enjoy. What could be better than living in an area like this? Working here too! With travel off the agenda, people have turned to boating in droves as a safe and local way to spend their leisure time. Second-hand boats are selling soon after they hit the market and the waiting time on new vessels is getting longer, as more people seek to enjoy the physical and mental benefits of boating. As a result, all sectors of the recreational marine industry are booming and the demand for workers is at an all time high. If you have ever wanted to work on or around water, now is the time to do it as the opportunities for employment in the marine industry have never been better. “Despite a challenging time for both individuals and businesses over the last two years, there are still many exciting and new opportunities out there for marine jobseekers. The AMI Group is a portfolio of companies serving within the maritime space, including amongst others AMI Sales a wholesale distributor and service agent, and TMQ Electronics a distributor and manufacturer of marine electronics. We are offering pathways for suitable candidates to get started in the industry, with careers at AMI Group ranging from sales to technician roles”, said Troy Cameron, Queensland Manager at AMI Sales said. To support the recruiting needs of the sector, the Marina Industries Association, the Boating Industry Association and Superyacht Australia have collaborated to create a new industry job platform called Marine Jobs. Until now there hasn’t been a single recruitment website that the marine industry could go to and find every job available in the marine sector – but now there is. Marine Jobs offers a place where like-minded employers and job seekers can connect. Michael Jarvin, of Advanced Marina Management said, “Marine Jobs is exactly what our industry needs. I want to employ local people who have a passion for the water. We desperately need more people in the industry at all levels and across all areas. If you’re looking for a local job, enjoy spending time on the water or working with boats, then we need you to be looking on Marine Jobs. I’ve placed four jobs on the Board and got good solid applicants. I will be placing another before Christmas. I guarantee you’ll have success too – whether you’re an employer, or a job seeker!” Within a few months of launching, Marine Jobs had hundreds of marine-related positions advertised, and it continues to grow. The employment opportunities cover a broad spectrum of marine jobs, including marine trades and apprentices, superyacht crew, dock staff and marina managers. So, if you love the water, love boats and would love to work closer to home, check out www.marinejobs.org.au

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The Benefits of LITHIUM BATTERIES

for Trolling Motors

A commonly asked question is: Can I replace lead-acid batteries with lithium batteries for my trolling motor? The answer is yes, there are numerous benefits when replacing lead-acid batteries with lithium batteries in marine applications. Not only will a lithium battery keep your trolling motor running efficiently but, when you reduce weight by switching from a lead-acid to a much lighter lithium battery, you will find that your boat will be easier to tow, and its performance and speed on the water will improve.

So what is the lifespan for a lithium battery that is used for powering a trolling motor? Lithium deep-cycle batteries are designed to discharge slowly over a long period and to withstand numerous charging and discharging cycles. You can expect up to 5,000 cycles at 50% depth of discharge (DoD), or 2,000 cycles at 80% DoD during the lifespan of a lithium battery. This type of deep-cycle battery is designed to be used with your trolling motor and any battery-powered accessories.

What size battery do I need 12V, 24V, 36V or 48V? Baintech Whitehaven Marine Series batteries are available in 12V, 24V, 36V, or 48V, and your selection will depend on your trolling motor. Trolling motors with higher voltages have more thrust. Thrust in marine terms means you will achieve better results in windy conditions, allowing you to spot lock, keeping your boat safely in place. However, the amount of energy stored in the battery, or battery capacity, must also be considered. The capacity is indicated by the amperage-hour (amp-hour or Ah) rating of the battery. The capacity of the deepcycle lithium battery you require will depend on your trolling requirements and the size of your boat. Different conditions will determine how long your battery will last out on the water. Obviously, if you are trolling in low wind conditions in an inlet, you will draw less power than you would when fishing in higher winds and are dealing with a current.

If you own a 12V electric motor, naturally you will need a 12V battery. Baintech carries a range of 12V batteries from 75 Ah to 225 Ah, and you should consult your trolling motor manufacturer's specifications for a better understanding of its amp-hour requirements.

For example, if you have a 100 Ah battery, and your trolling motor is drawing 10 A of current then, theoretically, you can run your motor for 10 hours. Drawing 25 A of current you could go for 4 hours, and so on. The basic calculation is: Capacity (Ah) divided by electric current (A) = time (h). This is only an approximate calculation because your power requirements (and hence current) will vary in different conditions. It’s important to note that lithium batteries should only be discharged to 80% DoD to avoid decreasing the longevity of your battery.

Charging Your Trolling Battery To ensure the best performance of your lithium battery in the long term, it is important to charge it correctly. AC Charging: A 240V AC charger can be installed onboard allowing you to charge your battery by simply plugging it in after your day on the water. DC-DC Charging: With a DC-DC charger you can recharge your deep-cycle battery while on the water.

Battery-to-battery waterproof chargers, suitable for specific motors are the: BBW1212 Sterling Pro Charge B for a 12 Volt Electric Motor, BBW1224 Sterling Pro Charge B for a 24 Volt Electric Motor, and BBW1236 Sterling Pro Charge B for a 36 Volt Electric Motor The Pro Charge B is a fully epoxy encapsulated, plug-and-play battery-to-battery charger. It is primarily designed to be put between the starter battery and a deep-cycle battery (trolling / bow thruster / domestic). The charger puts a load on the alternator and converts that load into a 4-stage charging profile to provide fast and effective charging. The purpose of the charger is to recharge your batteries as you cruise by fully utilizing your onboard alternator.

Note that DC-DC charging from your main boat engine is possible only if the engine charging circuit can carry the overall charge current required.

Are Lithium Batteries the Best Choice for Your Boat?

We've gone over the basics of lithium batteries, why they're safe and effective, and why it benefits you to use them. So, is lithium the right choice for boat batteries?

Choosing lithium over a lead-acid battery means you'll be switching to a lighter, more efficient power source. Your lithium battery will last up to 7 times longer than a comparable lead-acid alternative, so will need to be replaced less often, reducing costs in the long run. Make the switch and see the difference for yourself!

Do you need a new marine battery?

Take a look at our new Baintech Whitehaven Marine Series to see what Bainbridge Technologies can offer you. www.baintech.com.au or visit 1224 Lytton Road, Hemmant, QLD, 4174 Phone: 1300 224 683

Day Cruiser with outboard PARKER 850 VOYAGER

From 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

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, co-director 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