Diving Queensland

DIVING IN QUEENSLAND reefs, wrecks and caves

Divers across the globe can attest that, among the 70% of the world covered in water, Queensland's Coral Sea is one of the best for diving. The diversity of teeming marine life found here has inspired many to dive in, including JORDAN ABIL, a longtime diver and certified instructor. In this interview, Jordan provides brief insights into the region’s recreational diving scene.

Story by Scott Altman

WHERE ARE THE BEST DIVING SPOTS IN QUEENSLAND AND SEQ? Queensland has so many amazing dive sites with an abundance of marine life. For instance, South West Rocks off Rainbow Beach, in the Great Sandy Straits area, is the only known site in Queensland where grey nurse sharks mate and give birth. The S.S. Yongala, in the Townsville region, is one of the most amazing shipwreck dive sites in the world, teeming with a huge variety of marine life. The ex-HMAS Tobruk is another good site to dive sunken navy vessels. The SEQ region also has many great dive sites. The ex-HMAS Brisbane is off the Sunshine Coast. Just off North Stradbroke Island, you can dive the Manta Bommie where you can see huge manta rays in summer and grey nurse sharks in winter. Flinders Reef, in the Moreton Bay Marine Park, is great for its tropical and temperate fish.

WHAT DO YOU ENJOY ABOUT DIVING? The best thing about diving in Queensland for me is having so many different locations, reefs, wrecks and caves to be able to dive. So many people don't realise this and will choose to dive elsewhere. There is an abundance of marine life ranging from tiny nudibranchs, octopus, crayfish, temperate and tropical fish, dolphins, humpback whales, manta rays and sharks. Every dive site provides something different and it doesn't matter if you have dived the same site two or 50 times, you will always be surprised and see something different.

WHAT EXPERIENCES STAND OUT IN YOUR DIVING CAREER? I will never forget diving with my first bull shark on the Ex-HMAS Brisbane. It was only a pup, but the size and width were really awesome to see! Diving with humpback whales will take the cake though. A mother and calf were swimming right over the dive site, and listening to them sing and communicate will forever be a part of me.

HAS COVID-19 AFFECTED DIVING PARTICIPATION? Due to Covid-19, we have definitely seen an increase in people getting into diving. With lockdowns, travel and activity restrictions, a lot of people realised how amazing and easy it is to put on a wetsuit and get in the water to go for a dive. I would say we’ve seen a large increase in people learning to dive and a lot of people have realised that diving in Australia and Queensland, specifically, is absolutely phenomenal.

WHAT IS THE DEMOGRAPHIC OF DIVERS IN THE REGION? Diving is spread across a number of ages, which allows for huge variation. As a scuba diving instructor, I have taught people as young as 12 and have worked with people in their 80s. I think a lot of people that get into diving are people who love the water and have a genuine interest in the underwater world.

WHAT ESSENTIAL GEAR DO YOU NEED TO DIVE? The first thing I recommend for anyone when purchasing any dive equipment is a decent mask that fits your face. There’s nothing worse than having a mask that fogs up or leaks! A good wetsuit and fins early on are also a great investment as you will feel more comfortable and confident in the water.

WHAT TIPS CAN YOU GIVE TO PEOPLE LOOKING INTO DIVING? I recommend that you find a dive centre or store to call home and join their community. You should also do some research before buying any gear and make sure to ask questions as much as possible. Additionally, something I found quite enjoyable when I was learning to dive was writing out my logged dives with little stories, pictures and maps. It’s not only a log for your number of dives, but a little memory log as well.

THE INTEGRITY FAMILY

Integrity Brisbane Rendezvous

If you cruise the Gold Coast waterways, then you will know Integrity Motor Yachts. These trawler-style luxury cruisers are a favourite on the Broadwater. However, did you know the headquarters of the unofficial Integrity ‘Club’ is at Runaway Bay? Housed within a waterfront office, the ever-social, everpassionate Southeast Queensland’s Integrity owners team come together with Spectrum Marine to meet, share stories, and plan for the many get-togethers the group enjoy. There are approximately 160 Integrity boats cruising Australia’s vast coastline, with chapters of the unofficial Owners’ Club all over the country. This range of full displacement cruisers is Australia’s highest selling for very good reason. Integrity Motor Yachts are designed and built for the rigours of cruising in open water, with shallow drafts for the sandbank-ridden bays of Southeast Queensland and the comfort of knowing the rudder and propeller are protected by the low keel. Most impressively, they also come with a sublime after-sales support, which includes a ready-made social network. “The Integrity owners are a special group of people. Many are accomplished sailors and boat owners, so they know their stuff. They love getting together out on and off the water. As an authorised dealer for the range, the Spectrum Marine office is the unofficial clubhouse,” explains Lee Randall, Business Development Director. Recently, a fleet of 12 Integrity boats departed from the mouth of the Coomera River heading north to the Brisbane River to cruise as far west as possible. It was the annual Owners’ Rendezvous arranged by the Spectrum Marine team. The five-day cruise saw the group make it all the way past Brisbane, the junction with the Bremer River into Ipswich and return to Moreton Bay. Needless to say, a good time was had by all. The Integrity Motor Yachts team is the quiet achiever. In 2017, the distributorship of the range was acquired by Bruce and Julie Scott, the proprietors of Whitehaven Motor Yachts when they felt the Integrity brand not only offered the perfect range of vessels relatable to their age demographic, but it also complemented their existing business. The couple has since invested significantly into the brand taking the extraordinary step to be more than just a distributor and have value-added at the yard. Leveraging yacht design, boat building, production management and quality assurance disciplines from the Whitehaven business, Bruce has led an Australiabased team to take Integrity to new heights where it has become the most sought-after, high-selling displacement cruiser in its class. “The attraction of the Integrity range is that sense of enduring and timeless appeal and camaraderie within its ownership group, which for many is like an extended family unit – a compelling proposition,” says Bruce.

The quality and durability of the Integrity product is widely recognised, along with its extremely low cost of operation, which suits the budgets of many retirees and sailors once the time comes to drop the sails and move to simplistic and economical power boating. Under Bruce’s stewardship, the team continues to further improve the value proposition of the Integrity brand. The Integrity website showcases 27 unique features that comprise Integrity Advantage. The Integrity Advantage covers every conceivable detail from exterior and interior design to engineering, electrics and efficiency. For instance, Integrity is the only offshore manufacturer in this category that imports its yachts already compliant to Australia’s highest electrical standards. Yet the advantages go beyond that in what’s already a luxury boat which is strong, reliable, efficient, easy to operate and maintain. Each Integrity hull is hand laid up to survey standard and is designed to minimise slap – and therefore noise – at anchor. The shallow draft of the Integrity has made it popular for the sandy Broadwater and for added protection. The keel runs the length of the hull protecting the propeller and rudder. Additionally, Integrity boats are incredibly economical to run with solar power generation options available to reduce even further the already low-fuel consumption. Whether it is in a sedan or flybridge model, the Integrity interior is expansive as a function of a displacement hull and the greater beam of a seagoing vessel. It allows for comfortable and spacious accommodation. Significant consideration has been given to the layout of ensuites, day heads and shower compartments to adapt to day cruising with guests or long-range expeditions. If you ask any Integrity owner, they will tell you it was the cockpit that sold them on the range. The beamy cockpit layout features full wraparound padded seating with a drop-down teak table, creating a daybed along with under-seat storage and self-draining ice box. By opening the large hopper window and door, the spacious saloon and aft galley combine with the cockpit to create the ultimate entertaining layout. It is no wonder the range is so popular yet there is more to come with Spectrum Marine leading the charge. “We are working on some bold new designs for larger motor yachts with increased speeds. And whilst these are yet to be realised, anyone considering a cruiser can come to the Spectrum Marine office at Runaway Bay Marina for a preview of the new Integrity Motor Yachts,” offers Lee.

Spectrum Marine at Runaway Bay Marina Good times at overnight anchorage

Sunseeker 74

SPORT YACHT EVOLUTION

The Sunseeker 74 Sport Yacht shares many design traits (and a thrill-seeker's flair for speed) with its stablemate, the Predator 74 – but piles on more for its guests’ comfort and entertainment. It still has the performance, it still has the looks, but it offers more practicality. For Sunseeker, that’s how the Sport Yacht was born. More than a hybrid, the 74 Sport Yacht shows the evolution of this species: Predator looks have been combined with more liveable spaces to create something entirely new. The two models share the same succession of three progressively larger hull windows with long expanses of black glass divided by white, tooth-like jags of hull and the same taut, forward-reaching curves. You’ve got the great looks, the great curve appeal but it still takes on the new values that Sunseeker want for the brand. Sunseeker’s direction is thinking more about comfort; glazing now is larger for more light and usable space, while also thinking about the environment; designing more efficient hull shapes and systems. Upon boarding the Sport Yacht, you will clearly see how the design makes the best use of every space. Built into the transom, above the hydraulic beach platform, there is a convenient fold-down bench on top of access points to the tender garage, and an en-suite cabin for two crew members. The aft guest cockpit has a table with banquettes and large sun pads on a platform to stern. The table can adjust in height and fold out to become an additional sunbathing area. One spectacular feature of this area is invisible at times. The 74 Sport Yacht has cockpit glazing that can slide across to open like a conventional glass door but can also hydraulically lower to disappear, leaving the saloon and cockpit as one space. The saloon’s large windows are without mullions for uninterrupted views, and additional light shines through the sunroof above the helm. Lightness and brightness are picked up in the lines of the clean, modern furnishings that include a U-shaped sofa and table facing a bar that conceals a flat-screen television. Moving forward, twin helm seats are flanked by an observation lounge to one side and a door to the side deck on the other. The foredeck has another large sun pad and a U-shaped banquette around a table – a perfect spot for drinks or a quiet meal. The galley and guest cabins are on the lower deck. In the three-cabin version, the owner’s cabin with en-suite is amidships, aft of the galley, and uses the yacht’s full beam to its advantage. The VIP is forward with a twin cabin starboard. Families might find it convenient to put guests up in the fully-private owner’s cabin using the VIP and the twin cabin themselves as they are on the same level and work well together as a suite. All cabins are en-suite and receive fresh air through opening portholes inserted into the hull windows. While looks and performance cues come from the Predator 74, it’s the addition of the flybridge that sets the 74 Sport Yacht apart. It is key to give clients this practicality and extra entertainment space without ruining the Predator style. The Sport Yacht has the flybridge, and unless you really concentrate on the side profile, it’s so well hidden it’s almost lost. This means the Sport Yacht keeps its precious DNA while adding an outdoor helm station and the seating, dining and sunbathing spaces that make it an ideal option for owners who want to enjoy a fast run in the sun with family and friends. With the addition of the flybridge, the 74 Sport Yacht has kept the Predator’s capacity to thrill while adding a dimension of its own. Depending on the propulsion package, you get 35 to 40 knots boat speed. It’s about the flybridge helm, you’re higher up, outside, you put the boat up to 38, 40 knots, crank it into a hard turn and it’s just an amazing feeling. That performance and agility on a big boat really is good fun. That’s what it’s all about. Sport Yachts have quickly evolved to claim a market space of their own, with the market changing again; the Sport Yacht is a new niche. Clients are really enjoying it because they’re getting the best of both worlds. The 74 Sport Yacht shares the Predator 74’s pounce with the spaces you need to enjoy the chase in good company. A stunning example of the sleek and sexy 74 Sport Yacht is now at home on the Gold Coast and will be prowling our waterways. You will know it when you see it! Be warned, you will want it when you see it! www.sunseekereastcoast.com.au

© Copyright Commonwealth of Australia 2022, Bureau of Meteorology.

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FIND TRUSTWORTHY LOCAL TRADES FAST SEARCH BOATING AND LIFESTYLE

RE-FUEL RE-FRESH RE-STOCK FUEL STOPS

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.

MARINA FUELS AND TACKLE - RUNAWAY BAY

A family-owned business operating on the Gold Coast for over 30 years. Open 7 days. 8:00am till 5:00pm, PULP, ULP, Diesel and Oils. Snacks, Ice, Bait and Tackle. PH: 5577 2966 marinafuels.business.site 27°53.936'S 153°24.190'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

Horizon Shores · Gas & Water · ULP, Premium & Diesel · Bait, Ice, Chandlery · Licensed Café · Open 7 days, 7.30am - 5pm PH: 5546 2300 horizonshores.com.au 27°45.133'S 153°20.856'E

SOUTHPORT YACHT CLUB - MAIN BEACH

OPEN 24 HOURS Diesel, Premium and Unleaded fuel is available 7 days a week. Ropes and fendering fitted to the wharf. Boats up to superyachts. PH: 5591 3500 southportyachtclub.com.au 27°58.431'S 153°25.554'E

SLEEK OPEN DAYBOAT

FJORD 38 XPRESS

STRONG PERFORMANCE AND LUXURY APPOINTMENTS

Fjord is a renowned Norwegian boat builder that has a proud history of building tough, dependable and seaworthy boats. Becoming part of the Hanse Group in 2007, Fjord has built a legacy that is present across the entire Fjord seven model range in signature features such as a nearly vertical plumb bow, high freeboard, bold, horizontal sheer line, frameless windshield, a spacious flat deck layout and an open transom. Fjord boats offer spectacular one-level designs with high-quality Scandinavian-influenced interiors and are certain to impress. The Fjord 38 Xpress combines speed, comfort and versatility. Engine packages with joystick piloting up to 700 hp in twin configurations are available from Mercury, Yamaha and Suzuki. The standard set-up of two 300 hp Mercury Verados delivers 38 knots, while twin 350 hp Verados sees the 38 Xpress achieve an exhilarating 43 knots. Outboard engines have the advantages of good low-speed manoeuvrability, fuel economy and ensuring access to shallow waters and beaches, thanks to a maximum draft of 0.94. Once secured at your anchorage, it’s time to flick the switch and enjoy the Fjord’s entertainer mode. Smart options, such as the aft cockpit lounge with a height-adjustable table for eight that converts to a sun lounger, create the ambience of a stylish sea terrace. An outdoor galley with wet bar, grill and fridge located behind the 38 Xpress’s steering console furnishes all catering requirements. Biminis stretching forward over the bow lounge and over the aft deck can be unfurled from the T-top, shading the entire length of the boat, a necessity in Australian conditions. The carbon/fibre T-top is an engineering feat in its own right boasting ambient lightning and dark tinted skylights. The freshwater shower at the swim platform will come in handy after a day in the salt. The large, electrically actuated storage area in the deck can easily swallow a suite of water toys. Stainless steel side gates grant access to the aft cockpit, while entry to the bow lounge is via safe walk-round side decks with a flush handrail. The area accommodates a table with seating for six and can be electrically lowered to convert into a forward sun lounge as well. The helm station combines functionality and the latest glass bridge technology. Touch screen displays are within easy reach of the premium stitched helm seats. The windshield is a unique beautiful piece of real crystal with one more advantage: it eliminates the Venturi effect and the currents that are created when running fast; given cruising speed with the Verado 350s is around 25 knots. The boat is so well balanced there are few adjustments needed. From here, it’s just a few steps down to the inviting lower deck accommodations comprising a master cabin with double berth, fridge and storage. There’s also a fully equipped head with handheld shower, the kind of amenities that set the Fjord 38 Xpress apart in this class of boat. The interior décor can reflect an owner’s individual taste. Handpicked from top-class manufacturers, there’s a wide choice of fabrics, furniture woods, floorings and leathers, as well as an enormous range of styles and colours. Chief designer Patrick Banfield—whose work includes the classic Wallytender and one-off superyacht tenders for Feadship—imbues the 38 Xpress with similar admirable aesthetic traits plus an emphasis on quietness and elegant surroundings. Digital connectivity is revolutionising onboard systems management and Fjord has been in the vanguard, implementing the My Fjord Safety Cloud—the first cloud-based telematics system for series production motor yachts. You can access your boat's technical data including all manuals and instructions and functions live via the mobile app or via the owner's area at www.fjordboats.com Intelligent functions such as BoatMonitoring, eLogbook and eServicebook enable you to keep an automatic logbook, stay on top of all servicing dates and monitor your yacht seamlessly. You can also operate your electronic devices by remote control and check sensors that monitor your charge levels and devices. It’s a major step forward and a 38 Xpress owner will quickly realise the benefits of such digital management tools. The Fjord 38 Xpress makes a bold stylish statement on the water. At 11.63 metres, it’s nimble enough to utilise as a fast, fun family day boat or superyacht tender. The Fjord badge guarantees its sea-handling credentials and a commitment to excellence. For more information including pricing go to www.teamwindcraft.com/fjord

BRISBANE RIVER LOCATION AWARD WINNING REFIT HAVEN

Located along the Brisbane River, Rivergate Marina & Shipyard has earned an international reputation for the refit, service, and maintenance of superyachts from around the world, commercial craft from all over the region and recreational vessels of all sizes drawn from the east coast – many on their annual pilgrimage north to the Whitsundays and the Reef.

Established in 2006, Rivergate has the advantage of deep-water access in all tides. Close to the Brisbane CBD and the leafy suburb of Bulimba with its boutiques and dining options, as well as the domestic and international airports, Rivergate is extremely convenient for boat owners.

Just an hour or so from the picturesque cruising ground of Moreton Bay, Rivergate provides 108 marina berths, each with access to fresh water, shore power up to 400 amps and 24-hour security, including an after-hours on-site security guard.

On shore, Rivergate has laundry and bathroom facilities available to all visitors. Rivergate’s on-water self-service fuel wharf is open 24 hours, 7 days a week, with competitive pricing and discounts for regular customers.

The high-speed fibre optic wi-fi is offered free of charge to customers across the marina and shipyard. Additionally, Rivergate has recently upgraded its remote CCTV cameras throughout the site to ensure safety and security. Rivergate’s position also lends itself to being the perfect destination for a Riverfire 2021 booking, with only four and a half nautical miles between the marina and the viewing areas for recreational and commercially flagged yachts to view the fireworks. When you need assistance, the friendly concierge staff at the marina office can help with admin services, taxis, car rentals, accommodation and much more.

Rivergate’s shipyard boasts a 12,000-squaremetre hardstand with enclosed capabilities, serviced by 75 tonne and 300 tonne travel lifts. The shipyard is equipped to service every kind of vessel whether for refit, maintenance work or repairs, all managed by our skilled project management teams and 300 on-site tenants. Last year Rivergate completed more than 1000 movements using our 75t and 300t travelifts for boaties. The clean, paved hardstand and strict overspray protocols mean that all vessels can complete their overhauls, works or maintenance without the hassle of having to worry about environmental interferences or what others are doing. For refreshment or catering, customers and contractors have access to a popular café and crew lounge. Winners of dozens of international and Australian awards for service and facilities, Rivergate Marina & Shipyard was inducted into the Hall of Fame at the 2021 Club Marine Marina of the Year for Best Boatyard for 20+ yachts, precisely for their ability to cater to vessels of all sizes and types. “We look forward to welcoming owners of recreational vessels of all makes, models and sizes,” says Andrew Cannon, General Manager at Rivergate Marina & Shipyard. “Brisbane River is home to thousands of small to medium sized vessels and our expertise extends to sailing yachts and power boats, multihulls and monohulls, of every make and model.” Get in touch with the friendly team at Rivergate Marina & Shipyard info@rivergate.com.au Tel: (07) 3907 1600. More at www.rivergate.com.au

$200m expansion with 35m tall shed Maintenance & refits to all size vessels

Superyachts: New vs Used AGE IS JUST A NUMBER

By Pantaenius Insurance, Australia

Ayear ago, the idea of a boom in superyachts would have seemed like a work of fiction. Yet the pandemic has supercharged yacht sales from the smallest boats to the largest superyachts as people seek private space, travel and family time on the water. The market in superyachts has become so heated that brokers are experiencing a shortage of inventory. According to the US National Marine Manufacturers Association (NMMA), the recovery in the US led to a 9% increase in sales last year – and there is no sign of slowing down. The frenzy in the US market is having a knock-on effect in Europe, where there is now also a shortage of brokerage boats. Anyone looking at building a new yacht is looking at delivery times as far ahead as 2026. In the face of such a long wait, many new owners are buying older yachts instead, either out of choice or as an interim vessel. Research conducted by Boat International shows that the average age of yachts sold has increased this year to 13 years. Among yachts dating back further, there are some comparative bargains to be had: yachts between 30 and 40 metres have been known to change hands for under $2 million. This surge in new owners is a boom for the industry. It is introducing many new people to the pleasures of yacht ownership, and some of these will go on to commission a new build. But there are also concerns that less experienced owners may not be welladvised about the true costs of ownership. A yacht that is older may need a costly refit or be more expensive to run. It also incurs many of the same fixed costs as a new boat. Some costs, such as insurance, may be higher and a more significant percentage of the purchase price. “A new owner needs to be fully aware of the running and maintenance costs, and the general upkeep of the yacht,” says Michelle Van der Merwe, Pantaenius superyacht account manager. As well as fuel, marina and berthing fees, there are the crew salaries and regular routine repairs and maintenance, plus any refits or refurbishments that are planned. There is also the annual insurance premium that protects the owner’s asset, the liabilities relating to the operation of the yacht, and the crew and guest welfare. “As an insurance company, we are also interested in the long-term running of the yacht, where the yacht’s home port will be, who will be manning the yacht when the yacht is not being used, and whether there is sufficient crew during this time, as well as the planned maintenance regime," adds Van der Merwe. Mike Wimbridge, managing director of Pantaenius UK, says, “The first thing to note is that it is possible to insure any yacht. We understand that there are people who don’t want to wait two, three or five years when they could be out on the water this year or next, and many people who are buying these assets are well aware of the costs - and understand that they may stay unchanged as they go up the value scale." However, Wimbridge points out that older boats can be more expensive in some respects. “You may need ten times [the purchase price] to keep things moving," he comments. “We always say that, as a rule of thumb, running costs are about 10% of a yacht’s value every year, but not with an older boat – you may need to spend at least what you paid for it in a year." “From an insurance point of view, a concern we have is that some owners may be unaware of the costs of owning an asset like this and may look to cut corners. Older yachts may not have been refitted for some years. They may have ageing machinery, equipment that expires, and need more specialist work. That is the underlying story.” Wimbridge says that those who are well-advised by brokers and agents understand the trade-offs being made, but admits, “Sometimes, it is a difficult discussion. You are trying to explain why there is a reason for a $50,000 deductible, because that is what a minor claim could be. The numbers do become bigger as the percentage of the risk becomes higher.” Van der Merwe says, “If a yacht is to be used for charter, this also needs to be taken into consideration.” There are insurance considerations for commercially registered yachts, including higher premiums for liability insurance, charter guest accident and medical cover, medical cover for race crew or day workers, and whether the owner would like to insure named loss of charter, which can be a very expensive cover depending on the cost of weekly charters. “These all need to be discussed with an insurance partner, and it really highlights the importance of having a good provider who can be there at any time to answer questions, make sure the cover is adequate, and react quickly if there is a claim. We offer a full package of cover and make recommendations.” For more information and advice about insurance, visit www.pantaenius.com.au

NEW SIMRAD APP LAUNCHED

EASY INTEGRATION WITH DEVICES

The latest Simrad® App debuted recently for the marine electronics leader celebrating its 75th anniversary. The updated app includes a premium offering complete with new mapping features, advanced functionality and mirroring and control of Simrad® multi-functional displays from your smartphone or tablet. It is available on both the Apple Store for iOS and Google Play for Android.

The app is free to download and offers a rich experience that includes free up-to-date nautical charts from C-MAP®, personal waypoints, routes and tracks, latest marine weather, personalization and much more. The app also allows you to register your Simrad® device(s) ensuring you have the latest software, manuals, information and product tips, as well as the ability to synchronize your waypoints and routes. The premium version has additional functionalities including stand-alone navigation.

“The new mirroring feature allows you to view and direct your Simrad electronics from anywhere on the boat right from the palm of your hand,” said James Methven, Global Head of Brand, Simrad Yachting. “This easy integration with companion devices along with intuitive C-MAP charts and features make the Simrad® app a no-brainer for any Simrad® user to download and use.”

The premium version of the Simrad® App offers Global charts and offline maps, High-Resolution Bathymetry Charts, Automatic Identification System (AIS), Simrad® Community Traffic, 5-day weather overlay along route and 5-day weather overlay, GPS navigation data and line, track recording plus custom depth shading. The full complement of weather data is provided in both versions including wind data, sea state, tides and currents, water temperature and much more. The Simrad® App also features detailed fishing information for anglers and sport fishing enthusiasts.

“The simplified ‘freemium’ option provides a long list of technology and functionality right to your smartphone or tablet at no cost to enable your fishing, yachting and powerboating experience near shore or offshore,” added Methven. “Plus, now we provide the option for an easy annual subscription upgrade to receive crucial premium features like offline charting and enhanced GPS data, custom depth shading and our new weather overlay for 5-days along your route.”

The C-MAP charts on the app are carefully designed to highlight what is most important at any given time during your boating experience, maintaining accuracy and a clean, uncluttered view. Charts are powered by data from official hydrographic offices and continuously updated and augmented from thousands of data sources to enrich data near shore or offshore to provide clarity for your routing, whether that’s a short trip across the bay or longer voyage on the open water.

To learn more or to request a SIMRAD installation, contact www.aseamarine.com.au

Axopar has been constantly growing its fleet. As production has been growing at a steady 30% a year, Axopar has received lots of feedback from its world partners and owners to now release a NEW 45-foot adventure boat.

Now, with thousands of Axopars cruising in over 50 countries around the world and over 200 here downunder, Axopar has been truly tested in all climates and conditions. With this knowledge, it is now time to offer the new Axopar 45 flagship that has the same Axopar DNA as its smaller sister ships, and will be a true driver's boat. With a hull that others can only attempt to copy, without success and without the same efficiency, comfort or driver experience, Axopar has become the world’s No.1 manufacturer in this new adventure boat sector, in just 8 years. The biggest Axopar yet! - The Axopar 45 exudes confidence, harmony and composure with an air of sophistication surrounding its entire design language. The 5 models each offer a range of options and configurations to suit your lifestyle and desire for adventure.

This bold development hosts smooth, clean surfaces, rounded edges and uncomplicated hull lines that Axopar is renowned for. What sets the Axopar 45 apart from its competitors, will be its efficiency and power-to-weight ratio. The Axopar 45 presents an athletic appearance, with agile performance, superior handling and simplicity as our forte, rather than out-and-out pure muscle, with heavyweight propulsion, too much complexity and excess. Clean, uncluttered simplicity remains one of our most valued qualities. This Axopar offers a three-outboard engine set-up, with Mercury Marine’s 300HP 4.6l V8 Verado engines providing the perfect compromise between high performance, superior torque and best-in-class fuel-economy, along with innovative driving features and control aids designed to increase enjoyment for customers of all abilities. What makes the AXOPAR 45 range stand out - Gullwing door concept. All front lounge areas will benefit from a gullwing door experience that is the perfect solution for maximising the sociable feeling of the front cabin, offering full interaction with one’s surroundings, and making the front cabin feel like it is part of the outdoors. Furthermore, the gullwing doors allow better access to the cabin and a better connection with people on deck. Lounging on board. Guests on board stand to benefit from the extra volume and physical deck space gained from a 45ft hull, meaning that even large groups can find somewhere to sit back and relax within clearly defined rest and relaxation zones. Side opening platforms. Driven by a usability and safety perspective, Axopar developed an innovative new solution. The raised side opening platforms amidships where all the social activity is centred on the boat, extend usable seating space without sacrificing safety or comfort on board. Standing height in front cabin/toilet. The front lounge accommodation will be supplied as the standard across all 45s, with the advantage of standing-height headroom in the cabin. For the first time, it offers a standing-height shower/washroom combined. 45 XC Cross Cabin sliding doors. A new, unique feature on the 45 XC is the dualsliding door solution that really opens up new possibilities for how you utilise a fully enclosable cockpit with its surroundings, with the new integrated side openings diffusing the sensation of seating indoors/outdoors like our gullwing doors. 45 XC Cross Cabin adjustable wetbar. For maximum utilisation of the layout of the 45 cockpit, Axopar decided to make a centre sofa + wetbar + leaning post that is also length adjustable making it a new innovative and functional centrepiece of the cockpit. For more information, contact the exclusive Axopar dealer Eyachts at boats@eyachts.com.au, (612) 9979 2443 or visit the website www.eyachts.com.au

MODEL RANGE

● AXOPAR 45 SPYDER ● AXOPAR 45 T-TOP ● AXOPAR 45 SUN-TOP ● AXOPAR 45 CROSS TOP ● AXOPAR 45 XC CROSS CAB

SPECIFICATIONS AXOPAR 45

LENGTH 13.7 M BEAM 4.2 M DRAFT 1.0 M WEIGHT (W/ ENGINES) 7000 KG FUEL (MIN.) 1200 LT WATER 250 LT WASTE 120 LT MAX. SPEED +50 KN OUTBOARD ENGINES 3 X 300 HP PASSENGERS 14 BERTHS 2 PERSONS (+2 W/ OPTIONAL AFT CABIN)

Shop - Eat - Pamper - Float

Noosa Marina has been one of the staples of Noosa for over 30 years. Noosa Marina is a locals’ favourite dining location with a variety of restaurants on offer, be it modern Australian, a la carte, Italian or fabulous fish n’ chips. Many working locals enjoy Cafe Vin Cino for meetings, catching up over breakfast or a great lunch available seven days a week.

There's always something new to see with our variety of fashion shops, hairdressers or day spa on offer.

Noosa Marina is also a departure point for many river cruises including sunset cruises, dinner cruises, or do it your own way with self-drive BBQ pontoons or half-cabin hire boats, or charter a deep-sea fishing boat. But, by far, the best way to get your own perspective of Noosa is by catching the Noosa ferry and traveling along the Noosa river while enjoying an historical commentary. A return journey is a leisurely 90 minutes and one of the most relaxing ways to enjoy Noosa.

Sundays provide a fanfare of colour and entertainment with the regular Sunday markets and live music. Why not arrive relaxed by ferry, enjoy breakfast or lunch, or perhaps top the day off with an exquisite dinner with a view straight up the Noosa River?

Noosa Marina. Relax and unwind. www.noosamarina.com.au

TURNING THE TIDE

Switching makes a difference. Electric boats are cleaner and healthier for you, your community and our planet.

If you spend time outdoors and on the water, you are likely to have noticed a change. According to the NOAA analysis of global temperatures, nine of the ten warmest years have occurred since 2005. The five hottest years since 1880, when record-keeping began, were the last five years. 2019 was the second-hottest year in the 140-year record. Ocean temperatures are rising, as fishermen report species that have sustained coastal communities for ages are vanishing. Coral reefs, so fragile and beautiful, so critical for aquatic life, are suffering from warming and ocean acidification.

THE SCIENCE IS CLEAR Global temperatures are currently predicted to reach 1.5° C above pre-industrial levels between 2030-2052. The science is clear: We have to reduce our greenhouse gas emissions by 45% over the next 11 years to avoid further warming – and the most harmful impacts of climate change. Reaching this goal will require the reinvention of our lifestyle.

The good news is that the technology for a carbon-neutral mobility is here – and getting more powerful every day.

ELECTRIC BOATS HAVE LOWER CLIMATE IMPACT Boats powered by electric motors have a significantly lower climate impact than combustion-powered boats. Even when charged with electricity from a coalfired power plant, CO2 emissions are reduced by approximately 30%. When charged via renewables, the climate impact is reduced by up to 90%. Until recently, little attention was paid to the air pollution caused by combustion engines on boats. They are allowed to emit up to 100 times the level of harmful substances permitted in automotive diesels and include very little technology for filtering out pollutants. If you drive an 80 HP boat for one hour, it’s like driving 350 new cars at highway speed for the same amount of time. It’s no wonder that in cities with a lot of boat traffic, air pollution from fine particles is up to 20 times higher than accepted levels. If you switch to an electric drive, you are not only reducing your carbon footprint; your local community and waters will benefit as well.

Electric boats cause no water pollution because they don’t discharge their exhaust underwater like combustion engines and there is no chance of fuel or oil spilling on the boat or fouling the water. They are also quieter than fossil fuel-powered boats, as their noise disturbs people on land and wildlife under water. With an electric motor the only sound you hear are the sounds of nature.

FOR NOW AND THE FUTURE

Boaters are keen to preserve nature and enjoy clean air and unpolluted water – for today’s enjoyment and tomorrow’s generations. Torqeedo creates the products for the transition to sustainable boating. It’s what we’ve been doing all along.

To find out more about Torqeedo Electric Outboards, contact 143 Boat Building, Ryan on 0451 229 247, or visit www.143boatbuilding.com.au.

ELECTRIC OUTBOARDS

INBOARD & OUTBOARD electric mobility on the water

Clean and Convenient Lightweight Alternative to Petrol Outboards

Torqeedo available at 143 BOAT BUILDING Ph: 0451 229 247