BOAT GOLD COAST MAGAZINE JAN - MARCH 2023

THE FUTURE OF SUSTAINABLE BOATING

LUXURY ELECTRIC DAYBOATS

RAND boats combine sleek Scandinavian craftsmanship and design with cutting-edge technology and sustainable principles unlike anyone else.

Through intensive research, innovation and real-world testing RAND are able to offer a truly viable and practical 100% electric solution across their entire range. RAND models are available from 18 to 30 feet.

Every RAND is constructed with materials developed from recycled plastic bottles, all wooden trim elements are obtained entirely from certified sustainable forests, and the luxurious ‘leather’ upholstery options are cruelty-free alternatives. Compared to similar mainstream boat manufacturing techniques, RAND uses only half of the material when producing boats.

Uniquely, for those not yet ready for the electric revolution RAND’s iconic design, style and advances in sustainable production can also be configured with the latest highly-efficient internal combustion engines.

New models arriving early 2023.

EXCLUSIVE AU & NZ DEALER boats@eyachts.com.au

eyachts.com.au

Eyachts Eyachts eyachts_ 07 3004 7604 eyachts.com.au

BOATS FOR SALE

info@sunseekereastcoast.com.au

PH: (07) 5665 8254

SUNSEEKER 86 YACHT

This immaculately presented, Captain maintained, 86 is arguably the best example of this popular, big volume Yacht. With twin 1825HP C32 CATS for speeds of around 28 knots, and zero speed trac stabilisers. The impressive saloon deck, the four generous and beautifully appointed ensuited staterooms are on the lower deck with a vast aft deck and flybridge boasting alfresco dining, sunlounges, wet bar, the flybridge with a hardtop and electric sunroof, along with the bow lounges and sunpads there is plenty of room for fun in the sun.

2021 SAN LORENZO SX76

The SX76 has the incredible feeling of space and built to the highest of standards, with the finest quality products. Ultimate in luxurious comfort and style across the vast open saloon, flybridge helm lounge and the staterooms. This sensational as new 2021 model is boasting an extensive inventory of options and extras including stabilisers, crew cabin, wing station, tender, Jetski, deck umbrellas, underwater lights, joystick controls, Watermaker and so much more, along with warranty.

2015 SUNSEEKER MANHATTAN 65

Immaculate. Designed for entertaining from rear deck lounge through saloon with dedicated dining forward and centrally located fully equipped galley. Below decks 4 beautifully appointed staterooms with the master being extremely spacious full beam, ensuited and featuring panoramic windows. The dual helms stations are boasting state of the art electronics. Comprehensive entertainment systems throughout. Expansive flybridge with lounges, dining and wetbar. Extensive inventory includes Sleipner digital fin stabilisers, bow and stern thrusters, hydraulic swim platform, crew quarters and more.

CHEOY LEE 90 LONG RANGE MOTOR YACHT

“Beyond Capricorn” is ready for her next adventure. Launched in 2011 with recent upgrades, built for Australia with a very high level of engineering systems and redundancy throughout, with a range of approx 4000 miles @ 9.5knots the possibilities are boundless. Twin C18 600 CATS along with hull design and Naiad stabilization system the offshore performance and passenger comfort is outstanding. Space and luxury with beautiful timber finishes and contemporary soft furnishings, easily accommodating up to 16 people.

SOLARIS 57 ENCLOSED

2022 model Australian delivered. Designed and built in Italy with it’s modern styling focused on passenger comfort. Spacious 3 cabin layout with comprehensive inventory of quality options, including gyro stabilization, upgraded generator, tropical air, SAT-TV, 3 x Garmin screens, autopilot, bow thruster, crew cabin, tender garage plus much more.

Powered by Volvo Penta D11 IPS 950 725HP engines equipped with joystick docking provide speed, economy and excellent manoeuvrability. Includes New Boat Warranty.

SOLARIS 44 OPEN

2022 model Australian delivered. A new generation of boating, with the alfresco galley and dining positioned behind the dynamic helm station and two well-appointed cabins, sunbeds and bow sunpads, spacious walk around decks and side opening bulwarks. Particular attention to detail and the use of quality materials and high-level handcrafted finishes throughout enhances the comfort and liveability of the 44 Open. Fully optioned and ready for immediate delivery. Includes New Boat Warranty.

PRICE ADJUSTMENT

Editor's Note: Reflections on growth

Our politicians talk about growth a lot. Business and industry people talk about growth a lot. Media talk about growth a lot. The “growth” narrative is mainly focused on economic and financial growth, as if it is the only thing that matters in our lives.

Over the past three years, the focus was on how scary the newish virus was and we had to invest in medical and social interventions to alleviate the impact of the pandemic. On the ground, however, we have seen people caring more about each other, and giving more to those who may need more, sharing time with their families, friends, colleagues and neighbours. These are not quantified into economic dollars, and so somehow they do not seem to count in measuring our “growth” as a nation. Somehow, our society tends to look at individuals as “customers”, needing some type of service from businesses or governments, as if we exist only to be recipients of goods and services, and then counted as a statistic by data-hungry governments.

Robert F. Kennedy, in a 1968 speech, had said: “x x x…If we judge [a nation] by [that Gross National Product] – that Gross National Product counts air pollution and cigarette advertising, and ambulances to clear our highways of carnage. It counts special locks for our doors and the jails for the people who break them. It counts the destruction of the redwood and the loss of our natural wonder in chaotic sprawl. x x x Yet the gross national product does not allow for the health of our children, the quality of their education or the joy of their play. It does not include the beauty of our poetry or the strength of our marriages, the intelligence of our public debate or the integrity of our public officials. It measures neither our wit nor our courage, neither our wisdom nor our learning, neither our compassion nor our devotion to our country, it measures everything in short, except that which makes life worthwhile. x x x”

I am writing this after attending a yarning circle hosted by Home of the Arts. Through conversations with First Nations individuals and through story-telling on caring-for-country, I realise that there is so much to learn about ourselves, our families, our environment, our world. I am always inspired by wisdom that is not based on the dollar value or statistics. When we really think about it, caring for country ultimately means caring in the true sense of the word –for ourselves, for everyone and for everything around us. When we are out on the boat and getting into the blue state of mind, we feel healed and reenergised, not only physically but also mentally, emotionally and spiritually. But being out in nature and feeling good about ourselves are not reported in any government statistics, so do they count as “growth”?

While we are allowed to enjoy the luxuries and comforts that we have worked hard for in our lives, we also have to think about the non-monetary costs of doing so. Are we checking on our own health and our personal wellbeing? Are we still seeking the comfort and joy of spending time and talking with our children and our elders? Are we taking the time out to be embraced by nature, rather than trying to own nature?

So when we hear people say that things are “going from strength to strength”, let us take the time to think about our personal and community wellbeing: are we going from strength to strength in our daily lives?

Marcel Priest, Ian Anderson, Paul Burt, Nic Welch, Andrew Bedggood, Tanya Rabe, Karla Herbert-Evans, Caroline Strainig, Melinda Henderson, Salena and Graham Poyser, Arthur Marcel, Capt. John Kavanagh, Cpt Tommy Carlisle, Mick Godwin,

Padayachee,

Muir, Karin and Tony Bright, Ben Kelly, David Bradburn. COVER PHOTO The 37-footer Parker Monaco 110 is the first of a new series of sporty outboard powered boats from the Poland manufacturer in collaboration with Tony Castro Design. This design combines the spacious layout of a cruiser

Jeanneau Merry Fisher

TWEED HEADS

HOPE ISLAND

IT S OUR PLEASURE

With an unrivalled choice of exceptional contractors and services, you’ve found the perfect place for all 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 di erence.

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

40-foot classic wooden cruiser maintained by Lighthouse Shipwrights

Available in Australia this summer, the Elaqua electric is the future of Personal Water Craft (PWC). The Elaqua has a intuitive onboard multifunction 15.5” touchscreen - digital dash, running Unreal Engine human-machine interface which enables you to select many functions and ride modes, also the ability to geo-fence the PWC to a restricted location. The Elaqua also connects to your smartphone allowing you to check status, monitoring, location and alarms.

Launch Mode: Full power and full speed are delivered in Launch Mode for experienced riders or for when you're the only one on the open water and you want to see what you can do. Cruise Mode: Activate cruise mode for when you are sightseeing and traveling to enjoy a smoother ride and increased battery life. Pristine Mode: For when you find yourself in an area crowded with people or wildlife, Pristine Mode reduces speed and engine noise so that you can move without disturbing your neighbours.

Extra electric features : 5G LTE, WIFI, Bluetooth, speakers with Spotify, anti-theft system, engine cut-off, 8 sensor and radar devices, geofencing and speed limiting, 3 cameras 1080p Ultra Bright safety system (optional). Apple "Find My", real time feedback to the service centre and dealer, and heaps more!

Next generation technology: can be charged on any J1772 charge port, battery life on 1 charge is 130kms, Charge times: Level 1: 20 hours Level 2: 2.5 hours Level 3: 26 minutes, top speed is 89kph at 5000RPM (without chip), dry weight is 308kg, capacity is 3 persons, horsepower is 175hp.

Available in Australia this summer!

BOATS

FISH-AND-SKI BOATS WAREHOUSE

W yld About Boats work with select manufacturers and distributors to offer a range of family and fishing boats, as well as boating equipment in-store and online. The 50,000 sq. ft. warehouse showroom has a range of new and used boats, an in-house service department, and a watersports shop.

RANGE OF FISH-AND-SKI TRAILER BOATS

Wyld About Boats has one of the largest ranges of used and new vessels under the one roof, all serviced with warranty, and ready for immediate delivery. All serious buyers can take boats for a pre-arranged on-water test drive before purchasing.

For the active family who want to start their day catching fish and finish it with some exciting watersports, a fishand-ski boat lives up to its name. These boats have built-in conveniences fishing enthusiasts love, like rod holders, a trolling motor, and live wells, and can also

provide some great performance when it comes to towing for watersports.

When buying a boat, it is important to consider many things before making a final decision – from the number of people you are going to have in the boat on a regular basis, the water conditions in which you are most likely to use the boat, the budget you have allotted, to the running, maintenance and storage costs.

The fish-and-ski forward-steer runabouts are the perfect family boat, as they have the protection of the windscreen and foredeck, yet still have plenty of cockpit space to fish. Most are fitted with a removable rear lounge for times when the kids are not in the boat.

The bow rider is becoming the must-have all-round boat if you do more family boating, tubing or skiing, exploring or cruising with the odd fishing trip with mates. The drawback is it has an open bow and the rear cockpit is

shorter than that in a runabout. If fishing is more your style, then choose the runabout.

If you are heading offshore, your decision requires more thought. The team at Wyld About Boats recommend fibreglass cabin boats, which are popular in the southern parts of Australia, as they provide more shelter from the elements. As a family boat, the cabin space is easily fitted with camper covers and clears, which are perfect for overnight stays out on the water. A well-designed fibreglass boat will outperform most aluminium boats when comparing ride, comfort, quietness and stability.

Wyld About Boats offer a range of used boats of different colour, motor brand and accessories, which have all been serviced and come with a used-boat warranty.

Wyld About Boats Warehouse 18 Demand Ave, Arundel Qld.

Ph: (07) 5563 2223 wyldaboutboats.com.au

"Our boats for sale have all been serviced and come with a used-boat warranty"

Hayden Wyld (Owner - Wyld About Boats)

MONACO 110 SPORTS

The highly awarded Parker Monaco 110 is available in Australia, offering families way more for their money than the standard 11-metre cruiser.

At 11.2 metres (33 feet), the latest addition to the Parker range of sports cruisers in collaboration with the acclaimed designer, Tony Castro, is destined to make an impression in the family market for its features and value for money. Winner of the prestigious 2018 Best of Boats Awards in the category ‘Best for Family’, the Parker Monaco 110 is the largest of a series of sporty, high-performance outboard boats from the innovative Polish brand.

Made using Twin Step Infusion technology (TSI), the Parker boat hull distinguishes them 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.”

The flagship of the Parker range, the Monaco 110 is positioned as a versatile all-rounder with “space and pace” to please everybody and the latest outboard designs that deliver proven efficiency, performance and lighter weight than their inboard competitors.

Raising the outboards allows the props and legs to clear the water, reducing the need to antifoul them and reducing maintenance costs. Among the profusion of family-friendly features is the unique sunbed arrangement that covers the outboard engines, providing practical leisure space and attenuating noise for guests while underway. The seat/sunbed slides aft, thus increasing the cockpit area, and forward when you need to tilt up the engines.

On deck, guests can spread out over a large seating area with a drinks-cooler fridge accessible from the cockpit, flowing into the saloon and galley, with a wellequipped kitchen and dinette with seating for up to six people. The large foredeck is a great place to relax, with convertible sunpads/lounges.

Inside, the Parker Monaco 110 boasts the equivalent layout of any classic inboard boat and huge advantages in some respects. Glazing plays a huge role in creating the feeling of space and connection to the water. A sliding glass roof and another sliding canvas skylight over the cockpit area add to the open feel.

Other notable features are the helm side door for optimal vision and convenient access to the wide walkaround decks, and the topside door for easy boarding onto the boat from a marina berth.

Accessed by companionway are two good-sized cabins, the master in the bow which has plenty of headroom, storage and large wraparound windows, and the second double bedroom which would equally suit adults or kids. Adjacent is the bathroom with separate full-size shower, WC and vanity, as well as the characteristic windows for views and ventilation.

A wide range of outboard engines is available, typically a pair of 150 hp or 300 hp for sparkling speeds and a comprehensive list of additional equipment. The power options are completely up to you. While twin 150s are a popular choice, those keen on their watersports can double that with a twin 300 hp set-up.

The list of optional extras is just as compelling, and owners are able to customise many aspects of their Parker Monaco 110 to suit their preferences.

Overall, Parker Monaco 110 has a very sleek modern design, practical and functional for a price that will surprise and delight you. The Parker Monaco 110 Fly will impress Aussie boaties looking for a sports cruiser with the lot.

For info. Ph: 0414 252 254 nautilusaustralia.com.au

This stunning home was built specifically for the Director of Anstey Homes, and as such the luxurious inclusions are truly what dreams are made of. Perfectly positioned within the highly desired “Calypso Bay”, which is known as The Gold Coast Boaters Paradise. Situated on a large 845m2, fan shaped block with unrivalled water views from your North / East facing outdoor Entertaining Area.

Location in the prestigious resort of Sanctuary Cove represents the epitome of modern architecture, living practicality and Gold Coast Lifestyle. Built to the highest standard with fastidious planning on a premium, true north-facing waterfront block with 18.5m frontage; this home is sure to impress.

The Hamptons House on Pebble Lane. Fronting the magnificent Coomera River, this is one of the best locations in the Sanctuary Cove precinct. Watch superyachts, boats and yachts cruise past your property. Spectacular views across the river to natural vegetation and NO other houses on the other side unlike canal living where neighbours are just across the canal and privacy is somewhat compromised.

South East Finance are ready and waiting to approve your boat finance now. With a combined 30 years of experience in marine, automotive and finance industries, the team at South East Finance understand every aspect of the purchase process, from the search for that perfect boat to obtaining that right financing fast.

The aim is to provide exceptional service and fast approvals that will ensure a finance package that is tailored to your needs. It is the South East Finance team’s customer-focused attitude that sets them apart from the rest.

The team not only comprises finance gurus, they are also nuts about boats (and cars too!). So, if you want feedback and advice on the make, model or style of the boat you intend to buy, they can walk you through the pros and cons. This firsthand knowledge of the onwater realities of owning a boat is the reason why you can trust

South East Finance to assist with your decisionmaking, and your finance requirements.

POINT OF DIFFERENCE

They have a large range of lenders from major banks, finance companies, credit unions and non-conforming lenders. Securing your boat loan at the right rate is their priority. So, if you are looking for a low interest rate and quickest answer, they will meet your expectations. Even if you may not have the best credit history, they will still endeavour to secure the right loan for you.

Regardless of your income, you can expect South East Finance not to judge you or your decisions. They are respectful and helpful, and guarantee absolute confidentiality.

The team at South East Finance provide several specialised extra services on request. They can communicate with sellers on your behalf and

negotiate with your boat broker to get you the best deal, or simply just point you in the direction of a trusted and preferred boat supplier.

It is very easy to complete the application form. As soon as you submit an application, the team will call to discuss your loan requirements in more detail. You will be surprised at just how little income and documentation is required when applying for loan approval.

Call the friendly team today and book an obligation-free consultation regarding your loan requirements. Ph: (07) 3299 5553

www.southeastfinance.com.au/apply-now/

Paul Burt Fishing on the

doorstepofparadise

There’s something about fishing sub-tropical waters that gets the saltwater running through the veins of your body especially during the warmer months of the year.

Knowing the fish you can catch can vary from tropical species such as wahoo, red emperor and even coral trout through to the cooler temperate species of snapper, yellowtail kingfish and bar cod that are found well south of the Queensland-New South Wales border.

For me it’s all about trudging to new places, working out the territory by utilising new tech from the best in the business such as Garmin and their new shade relief data system. It feels like a new land and a new mission every time you hook the boat up and tow it a few hours north of south of the Gold Coast.

You see the Gold Coast has the highest number of registered boats per capita in the southern hemisphere and this equates to pressure and loads of it. The local grounds still fish well but not as good as previous years unless you’re targeting pelagic species such as mackerel or marlin or even dolphin, fish that make their annual journey down the eastern seaboard with the warmer currents during Summer.

Personally, I love fishing the waters off Double Island Point in the north. A simple 4 hour leisure drive up the M1, over the Gateway, hit the Bruce and once at Gympie you’re nearly there. Here the waters are teeming with fish and so many different varieties. The continental shelf lies a long way out to sea, but the bommies dot the floor of the ocean in close and it’s these that house so many different varieties of fish.

From casting out lightly weighted soft plastics through float lining a pilchard or even jigging metals all work incredibly well.

These trips must be juggled between the weather, as it can get seriously rough up there, and the bar which never seems to end. It just keeps on going. Wide Bay Bar is a notorious piece of work and if you don’t know then make sure you cross during daylight hours and preferably on the run-in

Perfect ground to fish Fish

tide. I mentioned before the Garmin Shade Relief System, this tech is incredible and very useful in areas you’ve never been before. In fact it’s very useful in areas you may have thought you had nailed till you see what the screen shows up. No one likes pimples except the ones the shade relief screen shows. These small dots are rises from the floor of the ocean, satellite imagery picks up the details along naval or survey ships mapping the sea floor mark every bit of detail which gets

passed onto the consumer and this helpful piece of information is what helps us fish areas not often fished before. From casting to pelagics schooling around a shallow bommie to micro jigging a pinnacle layered with baitfish being hounded by larger predators - all await in these sub-tropical waters just a few hours north of the Gold Coast. It is like fishing on the doorstep of paradise.

Gear to take, well lots of it. Micro jigging rods such as Shimano Grappler PE3 matched to a 2000 Ocea Jigger reel along with a bunch of micro jigs from 60 grams through to 100 grams.

A spin stick for surface and sub surface lures like a 7’ Grappler hooked up with an 8 or 10000 Stradic. Grab a few Ocea flash boost stick baits and some 80lb leader.

For the bottom come here gear, a TLD 25 spooled with 60lb monofilament Snyder line (not braid) matched to a Terez 40 to 70lb stick and 80lb leader would be enough. Here’s where you’ll want to tie a paternoster rig on with a single long leader dropper

with a set of 8/0 ganged hooks for a whole squid or diver whiting. Red emperor love them and if there’s one swimming around the broken rubble down deep he’ll be sure to smash your offering.

Again if you are venturing up or keen to give it a crack, see if you can line up a mate to go with you in his boat and leave either the day prior and spend the night up there in your boat at Carlos Marina or leave 4hours before dawn but after a monstrous day on the water it will be a mammoth mission to come back that same day.

Good luck and tight lines! "You'll never know what will hit the jigs!"

Wahoo on the jigs

My young fella Caelan with a tough fighting green jobfish

Watch Paul every weekend on 7Mate as they Step Outside. www. stepoutside.com.au

The prize catch of a bar cod

Greg Pearce with a couple of red emperor from the local bommies

M ODERN DAY MORETON BAY CRUISERS

DISCOVER ALASKA MOTOR YACHTS

Traditional in style, abundant in state of the art technology, Alaska Motor Yachts deliver a high level of sophistication for the discerning boat owner.

Alaska Motor Yachts are the pride of the Leigh-Smith Yachts team, a pride that each owner shares and takes with them long after the sales process. With every new Alaska the previous owner's direct input with the Leigh-Smiths, further refines and evolves the future product. It’s this willingness to listen & learn from the end user that ensures the designs, performance and finishes in the Alaska Range continues to astonish buyers.

Natural ergonomic flow is the focus on each new design From the moment you enter each vessel an Alaska Motor yacht will give you an uncluttered warm feeling of quality and superior boat building that enhances the liveability whilst onboard. You will feel the thousands of man hours in every vessel as you pass through each carefully designed purposeful area of the boat.

Softened by carefully chosen premium fabrics that are hand stitched to lighten the feel combined with large panoramic windows bring your secluded outdoor environment inside. Natural light and ventilation are always present in any Leigh-Smith design.

Whilst traditional in style, the Alaska Motor Yachts are abundant in technology. Cummins common rail diesel power plants, Onan ultra-quiet low revving Genets, bow & stern thrusters to make for easy docking, custom Sheridan bedding and linen packages, LED TV’s and lighting throughout, Italian hardware, Raymarine integrated navigation packages are all standard inventory that offer a reliable, user friendly minimal maintenance package. This high level of specification, finish and willingness to remain traditional ensure excellent resale and high demand on the used boat market. alaskamotoryachts.com.au

44 - 47 - 49 - 55 - 59

RUNAWAY BAY MARINA 251 Bayview Street, Runaway Bay PHONE 1300 872 006 www.spectrummarine.com.au

Fishing

IsAlso Women’s Business

The Queensland’s Women in Recreational Fishing (WIRF) programme was launched in early 2022 by the Queensland Fisheries. The group offers female anglers to engage in recreational fishing in a safe and inclusive environment, as well as encourage confidence in leadership roles.

Ten leaders were selected across Queensland, spanning from the Gold Coast to Cairns. The female anglers chosen for the leadership roles are knowledgeable, approachable, and most of all, very passionate and happy to help anyone wanting to learn the basic skills of fishing.

Being involved as a leader, you get to be a part of hosting events such as the first Meet & Greet, held at the Gold Coast Sports Fishing Club in November 2022. The evening event was a great success, with around 50 people keen to learn, from beginners to advanced anglers. On the night, aside from the mingling and the sausage sizzle, there were tackle talks, guest speakers and generous giveaways supplied by sponsors.

What the network hopes to achieve in the coming years is a fishing community that everyone can be a part of, offering a safe space where anyone can pass on knowledge, stories, advice, share photos of their catch, and ask questions among other like-minded people without feeling intimidated. For example, you may be interested to know where to start: tying knots, deciding which is the best bait or lure to use, or what areas someone may suggest you go. Or you are looking to upskill and learn more about techniques. Or

By Melinda Henderson

you may even just use the group as a stepping stone to pick up tips for your child or grandchild who would like to wet a line.

WIRF is also a great platform for women who may be interested in getting into a fishing-related career, as it opens many doors and opportunities for networking within the industry.

Whatever the reasons are for joining, anyone who is into fishing is most welcome to the group. This is what the programme is all about.

It was hoped it would be as successful as WIRF Victoria, and with almost one thousand followers in a few months when it was launched on social media, it is proving to be the case.

About WIRF Queensland - Queensland’s Women in Recreational Fishing Network (WIRFN) has been established to develop leadership, share knowledge, stories, tips, get the right equipment, and promote Queensland recreational fishing events. Although this group is primarily for women living in Queensland, we encourage female anglers from other states or countries to join in and post. The group aims to encourage women to participate in recreational fishing activities, share knowledge, stories, tips, get the right equipment and promote events. The WIRFN is planning to hold monthly workshops, friendly competitions, and more meet-and-greet fun activities. Join them on Facebook/Women in Recreational Fishing Network Qld and learn more about what they are up to.

Ursula Ivory with saratoga

Sharney Lennox with red emperor

The author Melinda Henderson with a flathead

ANTIFOUL BOTTOM PAINTING - The application of a special type of paint used on the bottom of boats is designed to protect from micro-organisms that can eat away at your boat hull and reduce the efficiency of your vessel. Boat antifoul will provide a protective layer between your boat and the marine life, which usually lasts between 12 and 18 months depending on your location. In high-flow tidal areas, boat antifouling will need to be done a little more regularly than in a slow-moving tidal area due to many more micro-organisms passing by and attaching to the boat. Gold Coast Antifouling is also an agent for Propspeed propeller antifoul, which can improve your boat’s performance and economy.

MARINE COVERS AND UPHOLSTERY - The marine environment is harsh, and good quality covers will protect your boat when you are out at sea, moored, on a trailer or even in a storage facility. As a reputable marine trimmer, they only use top-quality UV-stable canvases, such as Sunbrella or Weather-Max 80 with a lifetime PTFE thread brand like Profolin, Healius or Tenara. The machinist will sew reinforced edges, finishing with a waterproofing spray to ensure there are no leaks. The team are capable of repairing or replacing; biminis, camping covers, clears, zippers, midge screens, window shields, hatch covers or even a cover for the entire boat. They can also repair or replace indoor and outdoor upholstery and bedding, throughout the boat.

HULL POLISHING - The professionally trained team also specialises in boat detailing and cleaning. All detailing packages include washing the boat from the waterline, cleaning under hatches, and all grooves and tracks. They will remove salt, bird droppings, water stains and grime. They can then buff and polish the gelcoat using a proven method of hull restoration to bring back the shine, while ensuring a protective coating.

FIBREGLASS REPAIRS - The team are skilled fibreglass repairers, able to undertake minor repairs and major boat repairs. The company is able to repair, restore, and build just about anything with fibreglass, from hulls to custom fibreglass parts. This includes minor scrapes from dock damage, to rebuilding after a major accident, and the restoration of old but reliable hulls, transoms, floors and stringers, and they are also experienced with bow thruster installation. With spray-painters on hand, the right paint work can be applied, so your boat will look good again with new gelcoat.

The team members pride themselves on delivering fast and extremely professional service from quality tradesmen, taking care of all your boat maintenance needs. For a free estimate on all these services, call Paul Tuesley Ph: 0417 173 257

RB Marine Covers, GC Antifoul and Bullet boats form a unique all-inone boat service centre at Runaway Bay Marina. Conveniently located on the Broadwater, it’s the ideal place to refresh your boat with any minor fibreglass repairs, annual antifouling and repair or replacement of your boat's marine covers and upholstery.

The Aquila 44 power catamaran takes a fresh approach to classic boating traditions.

Efficiency in design and performance complement her luxurious, spacious living. With generous deck areas and large living spaces, the Aquila 44 Yacht is designed for cruising as well as entertaining. Available with a threecabin layout featuring a saloon and galley with 360° views and an extensive flybridge, the layout of the Aquila 44 Yacht makes entertaining a crowd a breeze.

The A44 is a favourite among those who appreciate efficient design and performance complemented by luxurious, spacious living.

The array of innovative features includes bridge-to-bow steps and a large rear galley lift-up window that opens to a versatile serving bar with panoramic views.

The galley is placed between the aft deck and the saloon and dinette on the main deck, for easy entertaining.

Wide side decks and safety handrails are an example of the Aquila’s commitment to comfort and safety.

The flybridge provides unobstructed panoramic views from lounge seating adjacent to the helm, creating a social space that involves the driver as well as guests.

Bulbous bows increase the waterline for greater efficiency while reducing pitching moments. Multifunction displays, digital controls, joystick operation, engine monitoring displays, thrusters, and widely spaced main engines make operating the Aquila 44 Yacht easily accomplished by a single couple.

“The fresh approach to design has seen Aquila fully utilise the layout potential, instead of just taking the traditional path of pushing bedrooms into the hulls,” Gavin Ward, Dealer Principal at Spectrum Marine explains.

“Aquila have reimagined the forward section to create a superb master cabin which stretches across the full beam of the boat. This means they can deliver a master suite which is the equivalent of many monohull boats over 60-feet.”

The owners’ master suite is on the saloon level making for easy access, and features a full-size, walk-around king bed, unlike many traditional catamarans where beds are hard against the wall.

“On the starboard side you can sit down at the desk in the office area, which also features hanging space for clothes,” adds Gavin. “There is also an option to install a washer/dryer. The portside rounds off the complete suite and features a well-appointed bathroom with ample space for your daily needs.

The Aquila 44 is a power catamaran with a fresh evolution of classic boating traditions. Efficiency in design and performance compliment her luxurious, spacious living. Aquila sets the new standard for luxury at every foot, from 28 to 70. Experience the full line of Aquila boats at aquilaboats.com.au . NEW AQUILA 44 AVAILABLE FOR APRIL 2023 DELIVERY. Contact us today on 1300 192 604 to arrange an inspection.

650

Everyone Should Have Access To The Best

Gemini Marine has designed and manufactured the most comprehensive range of RIBs and inflatable boats for many of the world’s rescue, military and patrol entities for over 35 years. These organizations all recognize the resilience, reliability and durability in even the most extreme and dangerous operations.

The Gemini Waverider 650 with its very sleek lines and ultra-modern hull shape has taken the boating market by storm. One of the ‘newer’ designed RIBS in the Waverider range, the WR 650 with polished 316 stainless steel T-Top (sun protection) with integrated stern navigation light, has quickly become a best seller.

The WR 650 adheres to a wide variety of customer needs, is popular as a family leisure RIB, but also transforms quickly into a very capable workhorse. Today the brand is actively in use in customs patrol/protection, policing and in rescue applications worldwide.

The rounded deep ‘V’ shaped Gemini hull offers great performance, comfort and excellent handling at top speeds, especially in heavy seas. They are built using the

latest technology and techniques, ensuring quality and reliability. The overall length is 6.5 metres with a width beam of 2.4 metres, and a cockpit depth of half a metre. The Waverider 650 is designed to carry 9 passengers and fitted with the 130hp outboard is capable of 37knots. A power upgrade is possible to 200hp.

Complete with windscreen, stainless steel grab rail and large internal dry locker, and a cushioned bow seat on forward side of console with stainless gas struts. The design has a self draining non-slip deck with stainless large flow drains and a unique motor splash well suitable for heavy reversing and rough conditions.

The helm is fitted with flatscreen GPS chart plotter, digital engine multifunction gauges and a 13.5” premium stainless steel wheel and steering knob. Easy to maneuver, the engine is controlled with hydraulic steering and fuelled by a 140L under floor pressure tested aluminum fuel tank. Built for reliability, the Waverider comes with LED navigation lights, electrical circuits all fuse protected, internal console lighting, and stereo system with Bluetooth phone connection and twin speakers.

The twin driver bolster seat with rear facing bench seat or twin helm bolster seats make the ride comfortable for everyone onboard. There is also a full width removable forward facing lounge seat with internal dry storage and hinged back rest

The hull tube material is1100 Dtex HYPERLON, featuring 5 separate air compartments complete with pressure relief valves, and heavy duty dual side rub strips. An anchor rope bow protection, aluminium keel protection, waterski towing eyes, forward and rear stainless steel towing and launching eyes, make it rugged under all usage. The customised rig can be delivered on a galvanised multiroller trailer with winch and LED lights

All Gemini Marine boats have been arduously tested on some of the most treacherous coastlines and sea conditions in the world.

By ordering a Gemini, you are guaranteed quality, measured to the most exacting international standards that ensure that you have total confidence in all our products.

To find out more, call Dylan Lopez on ph: 0424 487 226

AFTER A RESCUE - 2 LIVES SAVED

THE JOMO 300 IS CURRENTLY IN USE BY MULTIPLE VMR DIVISIONS AND HAS MADE NUMEROUS RESCUES SINCE BEING DEPLOYED.

The PLASTICyou WANT inyourwaterways

AVAILABLE IN 9 BOAT COLOURS

With the ever-present push towards renewables and a cleaner future, the idea of plastic boats may seem counter intuitive at first. However, this could not be further from the truth. Plastic boats are in fact some of the greenest boats to produce, with minimal waste and little to no by-products that far too often end up harming our beautiful environment. With an extremely long lifespan, minimal hull maintenance, and the ability to fully recycle, plastic becomes the obvious choice.

Jomo boats strives to be at the cutting edge of polyethylene boat development. Our maiden design, the Jomo 300, pushes the boundaries on what is possible with plastic. Featuring our patented rotomoulding techniques that maximise hull rigidity, the Jomo 300 is capable of taking serious power without the severe transom torsion apparent in other plastic boats. The hull is completely airtight due to our use of sealed screw and bolting points, circumventing the need to drill and seal which are always points prone to failure.

The Jomo 300 is currently in use by multiple VMR divisions and has made numerous rescues since being deployed. The small stature and excellent handling of the Jomo 300 allows it to precisely navigate through tight and shallow waterways where other vessels often struggle. On the other end, it easily takes on rougher waters without fail, providing a safe and dry ride for those on board. It is able to rapidly respond and reach those in need, thanks to its 20-horsepower rating, while

allowing responders all the necessary gear due to its high load rating of 459kg - over 50% more than competitors. It is the ultimate small search and rescue boat.

The Jomo easily slices through chop thanks to its hull design, while the natural flexibility of polyethylene delivers a soft, comfortable ride for passengers. The cushioning effect that polyethylene provides is similar to that of inflatables without the ability to puncture or deflate. The Jomo hull is a single piece with no welds or joins that are often susceptible to cracking or parting over time. Featuring industryleading level floatation, the Jomo 300 will remain above water when completely flooded, even while carrying the maximum rated load.

The Jomo console is one of the most compact consoles available on the market. Its minimal footprint allows users to maximise the already outstanding interior space of the Jomo 300 without interference, even with 4 passengers. It is constructed out of a rigid stainless-steel frame to endure weathering, and a high-density polyethylene (HDPE) dash that complements the plastic nature of the Jomo whilst being resistant to wear and damage. A key benefit of the separate frame and dash components over a single-piece console is the ability to customise the frame dimensions, and subsequently the steering position, to suit the end user.

All of the developments at Jomo boats have been put through rigorous testing to ensure everything

functions as intended. From simple buoyancy and floatation tests all the way to drop and stress tests, we have pushed the Jomo to its breaking point, or more correctly it’s non-breaking point, to ensure it is the safest small boat on the market. We are constantly innovating and implementing changes to improve our design, not only to exceed our competitors but to ensure the Jomo is the greatest plastic boat available. It is this pursuit of excellence that has enabled the Jomo 300 to compete internationally with exports currently underway and growing.

To find out more about the Jomo 300 or to locate your nearest dealer, visit www.JomoBoats.com.au, or come see us at MeTender Boats at the Coomera Marine Precinct.

For a detailed overview of our testing, visit www.JomoBoats.com.au/JomoTesting

JOMO WILL PLANE WITH A 6HP OUTBOARD

SIDE CONSOLE ADDS TO VERSATILITY

THE LARGEST JEANNEAU CENTER CONSOLE EVER BUILT

CAP CAMARAT 10.5 CC

Jeanneau is launching the largest Cap Camarat Center Console ever built: the Cap Camarat 10.5 CC.

This new model has been designed to adapt to a variety of activities, such as water sports, fishing, sunbathing. The design is, once again, unprecedented. In addition to a versatile deck layout and excellent cruising performance, this is the only 34-foot Center Console offering four comfortable berths.

PURE POWER AND PERFORMANCE

The 10.5 CC adopts the hull of the Cap Camarat 10.5 WA Serie2 and benefits from the same high technology infujection construction technique.

With its timeless, extended, sporty lines, V-shaped hull design, powerful Yamaha twin 300 HP or 425 HP engines with joystick control, and ergonomic helm station, you will enjoy fast and easy cruising, and in perfect safety and comfort.

ERGONOMICS AT THE HEART OF DESIGN AND DEVELOPMENT

Aboard this new flagship, the accent is placed on comfort and quality of life onboard.

On the exterior, the deck plan has been designed for versatile use. Whether you prefer the shade of the standard T-top, or you opt for the large sundecks for lounging after a swim, exterior living spaces with flush

floorboards have been designed for sharing moments with friends and family. The Cap Camarat 10.5 CC is fully equipped for fishing trips with rod holders on the roof and a transparent livewell.

With two generous cockpits, and an immense side door with an integrated swim ladder for easy access to the sea, the Cap Camarat 10.5 CC is a standing invitation for fun and relaxation.

The aft bench seats fold away, offering optimal space for all marine activities. Forward of the console, a large sofa provides seating for two in full comfort, whether at anchor or under way, and it can be opened for a well-ventilated interior.

The flush deck enables easy flow of movement around the console, without obstacles. For those who love swimming, an immense portside door provides direct access to the water, with its integrated swim ladder.

While cruising, with seating for three at the helm, the driver benefits from an ideal central position.

SPECIFICATIONS:

AN OUTSTANDING INTERIOR LAYOUT ON A CENTRE CONSOLE

A bright, open interior offers a surprising volume of living space. The new Cap Camarat 10.5 CC is unique on the market: this is the only 34-foot Center Console to offer four comfortable berths.

The forward saloon transforms into a berth, the head compartment is equipped with a separate shower, and the aft cabin features a comfortable double berth.

PERFECTLY EQUIPPED FOR ALL WHO LOVE THE SEA

The variety of equipment offered aboard the Cap Camarat 10.5 CC will satisfy every taste! At anchor, the standard T-top shelters crew members from the sun. This equipment can also be complemented with optional sunshades. Those who enjoy sunbathing will delight in the large transformable forward and aft sundecks. The leaning post features a well-equipped galley, including: a refrigerator, a sink, and the option of a gas burner or grill.

This new model offers even more functionality and more comfort on board, for an array of sensations and for unforgettable getaways on the water!

Contact David on (07) 3265 8046 or email your enquiry to davidc@nsmarine.com.au

WHITTLEY FF 1650 OUTBOARD “FF” FISH FINDER BOAT range

position the kids up front in the shade, while dad and mum fish off the back. The cabin has a very large forward hatch which allows easy access to set your anchor, or you can install the optional remote electric anchor winch.

The FF 1650 is a great little adventure machine for exploring backwater creeks, yet it’s equally at home on larger bays, and the odd trip offshore is well within the scope of its capability. This is a great planing hull, riding high on the waves, making it safe and reassuring even when conditions turn nasty.

I f you want a more relaxing experience than provided by a tinny, with good shade from the sun and wind, the Whittley FF 1650 OB boat is a user-friendly and adaptable choice. It’s the smallest in the Whittley fleet, yet it can go toe-to-toe with much larger hulls.

This model could be described as a garage-friendly alternative to aluminium runabouts, providing a safe and comfortable ride that few boats in its size class can match.

From a proven pedigree, at 5.4 metres in length and 2.2-metre beam, the boat features a cuddy cabin berth in the front with infill cushions and is based on the original John Savage Centurion pedigree hull design.

The modern black sports dash can be fitted with an upgraded 6-inch sounder. The hull is lined with premium rubber flooring throughout, and two removable rear quarter seats create a large fishing area incorporating factory fitted rod holders, with an optional upgrade of alloy rocket launchers. The foam-filled hull boasts moulded rear boarding platforms on either side of the engine well and a swim ladder for watersports.

Young families really love this boat because they can

The affordable family-focused fishing package can be powered by Mercury outboard 90 command thrust engine. The performance far exceeds that of an aluminium tinny, with a 2.1 L, 4-stroke, 90 hp outboard giving you a 53 km/h top speed at 1.7 km/L. At its most economical cruising speed of 38 km/h at 2.4 km/L, this boat has a range of 150 km on a full tank, which is adequate for any day trips you want to plan with family and friends.

Whittley builds a range of affordable fibreglass familyoriented boat packages. Supplied on a single-axle trailer with front & rear deluxe ratchet straps, this lightweight pack is easily towed behind a family car. Ideal for people starting out in boating, the FF 1650 OB is easily manoeuvred to fit into the family garage, and the canopies drop down to ensure the height does not exceed that of your carport or roller door.

Optional extras include a live bait tank, deck wash, fusion stereo system, extended bimini, canister style toilet, removable table, vinyl cabin divider, and storm covers.

The FF 1650 OB boat-motor-trailer package starts at $64,990, drive away from Whittley QLD Coomera.

To find out more, call Laurie Jackson at Whittley Sales QLD Ph: 0409 830 078 whittleyboats.com.au

SUPERIOR BOAT CRAFTSMANSHIP

Since 1953, family-owned Whittley Boats has been committed to designing and building high quality, legally trailerable, Australian-made fibreglass boats. With over 30,000 boats built, the Whittley Marine Group remains committed to crafting boats from its factory in Melbourne to take Australian families boating. All models are backed by a 5-year structural warranty and are supplied turnkey as boat, motor & trailer packages and sold exclusively via the Whittley Marine Group’s factory owned dealer network, across the country.

Remaining faithful to their core values, Whittley Boats is always evolving – using new materials, the latest building techniques, and purposebuilt premises to make your new boat buying experience a memorable one. New technologies have enabled Whittley Boats to continuously improve quality, efficiency and consistency with in-house design, hull manufacturing, timber and glazing, trimming and canopy works.

When you purchase from Whittley Boats, their superb quality-controlled factory, and national-wide service support team, are with you every step of the way, bringing over seventy years of boating knowledge to every boat package. Whittley is Australia’s only boat builder that builds, sell and service the products nationally. As it approaches its 70th year, the company shows no signs of slowing down its dominance of the fibreglass trailer boat market.

"The FF 1650 is made from fibreglass which offers many benefits over aluminum." Alan Whittley

Neville Whittley, Managing Director oversees the entire manufacturing process and son Alan Whittley is the National Sales and Marketing Manager, overseeing the customer experience thru a factory owned dealership network across the country.

GAME TOWER GAME-CHANGER

A revolution in boat-building spawned by Australian ingenuity has burst onto the scene, unveiled to the strains of AC/DC’s “Back in Black” at decibels loud enough to attract global interest.

The perennial quest of building game boats to be light, fast and efficient has challenged designers for decades. Advances in hull design and props made of titanium reduced weight and drag, but still owners demand faster boats.

Levi Duncan and the team at his new venture, Element Composites have devised a solution: a world-first, 100 percent carbon fibre towers, custom designed for game fishing boats; Not just stronger and lighter than aluminium or stainless steel, but foiled with an elliptical frame for aerodynamic advantage.

Levi Duncan and Josh Duke-Yonge, Directors at Ocean Degree Total Yacht Services, lead a team of 30 design and refit specialists. Managed by their highly experienced Production Manager, Mick Chaplain, they apply their considerable skills to some of the most complex superyacht projects in the country.

A product of two years of R&D in the use of these materials, including rigorous modelling and testing, they have constructed an 8-metre carbon fibre tower for “Back in Black”, the 40-foot Black Watch game boat as part of a full refit project, which also included an impressive sound system for celebrating the catch!

An 8-metre tower, if built from aluminium, could weigh as much as a tonne. Carbon composite fibre is known and used for its combination of strength and lightness. It is five times stronger than steel and one third its weight. A 100 percent Carbon Tower is approximately 70 percent lighter than a tower built from traditional materials. A massive saving, as well as being strong and stable, and it looks sexy as hell!

“Our clients tell us they want their towers to be durable and practical, as well as eye-catching,” says Levi. “The carbon fibre tower is totally unique and a real head-turner.”

Using new generation epoxy resins which won’t corrode, fade or discolour, and a complex

vacuum infusion process, the team at Element Composites fabricated all component parts of the tower, including hardtops for console, buggy floor and top are all fabricated from a composite integration carbon fibre.

“Back in Black” returned to the water in October, accompanied by a huge "Back in Black"-themed party at The Boat Works, Garage 25, for the boat’s owners, contractors and media – its theme song blasting from the JL Audio speakers installed in the cockpit and tower.

With her glossy dark metallic grey hull, and boat name and rego mimicking the carbon fibre look, the 19-year-old boat has benefitted from a complete refit which took around five months.

“Back in Black’s” 100 percent carbon fibre tower is the tallest ever for a Black Watch game boat and is destined to be the first of many. The team pitched their Aussie ingenuity to US game boat builders at the 2022 Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show (FLIBS).

“Florida is the epicentre of game boat building,” explains Levi. “We had a lot of interest. Once owners and boat builders see how superior our carbon fibre towers are, and how easily they can be packed and transported to the US, we’ll be shipping a lot of them stateside.”

www.carbongametowersinternational.com

"The U.S. market are very interested in our exciting new product." Levi Duncan

NEW DESIGN HERITAGE 46 CLIPPER MOTOR YACHTS

The first vessel will arrive late December for a Sunshine Coast family and is powered by a single Cummins 480 HP diesel shaft drive. Equipped with two cabins and two bathrooms the new 46 personifies the classic Clipper “trawler” lines with a fresh and modern touch.

This new Heritage 46 is the traditional Heritage 40 reinvented and reimagined for today's boating needs but still retains those classic Clipper styling cues. Firstly we designed her as a semidisplacement hull capable of speeds of 20 knots and planing at 14 knots comfortably. She can be built as a single or twin engine selection and of course has the keel as the lowest part of the boat.

The new 46 upgrades to a two cabin and two bathroom layout and has a really large saloon area on one level with the cockpit while boasting a much larger cockpit than the 40 it replaces.

Clipper's proven semi-displacement keeled hull design with proven shaft drive technology is incorporated into our newest model, standard power is a single Cummins 480 HP diesel QSB series or optional twin engines are available depending on what your desired cruising and sprint speed are. Either way, you can power up to achieve an overall speed in excess of 20 knots (estimated) or have a large single-engine configuration for

maximum range and economy with an optional APU auxiliary propulsion system.

The first of the new 46 heritage boats boasts an aft galley with twin pilothouse doors, in-floor storage room and two double bed cabins. Upstairs, accessed by the fiberglass staircase with teak treads, boasts an entertainment module with bbq, sink and fridge along with dual helm chairs and large lounge seating underneath the hardtop.

Well equipped, it combines all the attributes of larger passage makers into a 46ft package for ease of handling and maintenance. No dream destination or port will be out of reach with Clipper’s latest motor yacht.

ABOUT CLIPPER MOTOR YACHTS

Clipper has been building our current range in our proven Chinese shipyard in Ningbo, China for over 15 years and most importantly invests in employing our own experienced Western boat builders full time overseeing new product development and final quality control. They manage our product full time in China and live in the region working daily with our shipyard management and staff to oversee our motor yachts in build.

The result of this collaboration is state of the art designs combined with labour intensive hand crafted motor yachts featuring superb craftsmanship and wood interiors. Each Clipper is finished to the highest standard even being one of the few imported craft that meets and passes Australian electrical standards. We even have independent Australian Marine surveyors who have certified owners vessels in build to provide reassurance while a vessel is being built overseas.

For further information contact Peter 0452 262 877.

Clipper Motor Yachts are located at Boatworks Marina, Coomera, Gold Coast Queensland. www.clippermotoryachts.com

Clipper Motor Yachts are proud to announce the arrival of the all new Heritage 46 being the long awaited replacement for the classic Clipper 40.

TOTAL YACHT SERVICES

UTILISING THE LATEST

A

fastidious attention to detail differentiates

The Boat Works, along with a commitment to innovation and the aesthetic appeal of a luxury resort, rather than an industrial shipyard.

With over 500 storage and maintenance spaces ashore, our dry berthing & out of water capacity is the largest in the southern hemisphere, and ever-growing to keep pace with demand.

Just 3 years ago the facility extended sprawling across 55 acres with a purpose-built superyacht yard and marina. Then the arrival of the Gold Coast’s largest ship lift, the 300 Tonne was welcomed adding grit and hauling power to the current fleet sharing the expansive footprint with the 70t lift, 100t Marine Travel Lift and the 45t Hydraulic Sealift.

Operating two world class yards the aim is to maximise the overall facilities’ footprint and increase capacity for additional vessels. Whether your preference is sailing or racing monohulls, catamarans, trimarans or cruisers through to motoryachts and superyachts we have the equipment and an array of Marine trade professionals onsite to get the job done.

2023 will see the welcome of an additional boat lift machine adding five machines to the overall fleet.

The new ship lift, an Italian built BL90 Telescopic Boat Lift is the latest in boat lift ingenuity with several unique features allowing for versatile options for set down. With a hydraulic cross beam that enlarges or decreases the overall

machine's footprint to suit; maximising the set down. Mechanical pivoting and all-wheel 90-degree steering allows the boat lift to spin 360 degrees on the spot and ‘walk’ sideways – ideal for adapting to wide and narrow boats and for parking in tight places.

Shipyards need to adapt to a variety of vessels efficiently on their hardstand without losing space. This machine allows The Boat Works to achieve this flexibility across the two yards.

Shane Subichin, General Manager at The Boat Works said the facility has evolved in response to ever-increasing demand and is investing in the proven equipment to stay ahead and provide the best service and options for our customers.

PROFESSIONAL SERVICES

RodTwitchinMarine Surveyor Altering Course

Turning 11 years old this month, ROD TWITCHIN MARINE (RTM) is steering a new course in 2023 and solely focusing on their Professional Services with the closure of the workshop. RTM will still be conveniently based in an office environment at The Boat Works and will still travel locally, nationally & internationally sharing their 35+ years of sound industry knowledge.

“It is our belief that by solely focusing on our professional services, we can offer a healthier service and engage more with our clients”

After many years at sea, as Master or Engineer, including extended time spent in refit yards, then working ashore since 2004, ROD TWITCHIN MARINE has vast experience and is well-equipped to provide a unique suite of professional services. Comprehensive reports (not just ‘tick the box’) are provided for all surveys and valuations, and RTM will prioritise the importance of any defects, offering recommendations for repair where possible.

RTM’s services include:

PRE-PURCHASE SURVEYS

RTM’s inspections include a sea trial where all underway systems and navigation aids are properly tested. They are supported by comprehensive reports covering all systems, machinery, running gear, structural integrity, electrical & electronic componentry, coupled with an overall appraisal of the vessel’s aesthetics inside and out. They will answer any queries you may have and are happy to discuss their consulting services regarding improving your vessel.

INSURANCE CONDITION SURVEYS

Typically, an insurance inspection occurs “out of water”. RTM will ensure your vessel is safe for operation and compliant with any insurance requirements. RTM’s reports include any recent maintenance or improvements to the vessel, offering your insurer an up-to-date overview of your vessel’s condition.

GENERAL CONDITION SURVEYS

RTM offer various levels of inspection. A full inspection is suitable for boaters embarking on coastal cruising or ocean crossings, whereas a less detailed inspection is appropriate for clients boating locally if the vessel has sat for lengthy periods, like over winter.

VESSEL VALUATIONS

RTM has been engaged by many clients over the years for varied purposes including, but not limited to, insurance, finance, family law, import for Australian Customs, and taxation. RTM’s appraisal technique is comprehensive and will result in a report that outlines the overall condition of the vessel, inclusions, and current valuation.

PROJECT MANAGEMENT & CONSULTANCY

RTM has over 25 years of valuable experience in this field, dealing with vessels ranging from 20’ to 160’, and have developed sound practices for refit and repair.

From the outset, RTM’s engagement can ensure that nothing is overlooked with the requested works, securing quotations, and aligning with the boat yard with respect to travel lift and shed hire.

RTM have a great network of trades to assist with projects of any nature. They bring owners and trades together to facilitate the best outcomes for repair, modification, betterment, timeframes and budgets, and communicate constantly with clients to keep them informed of completed, current and upcoming works.

EXPERT WITNESS

RTM offers a service to support most legal matters of a marine nature. RTM uses their diverse background to assist clients within this field. RTM’s detailed and factual reporting documentation has been well received in legal situations and can be supported with their physical presence.

VESSEL & SYSTEM DIAGNOSTICS

Often, additional expenses are incurred due to lengthy diagnostic procedures before vessel repairs even begin. RTM’s many years of experience can assist clients by cutting diagnostic times. RTM can travel to your vessel, conduct on-water testing to diagnose faults, and may be able to immediately assist with small rectifications, or alternatively connect you with a suitable repairer.

ROD TWITCHIN MARINE’s services are strongly supported by their longstanding reputation, and current accreditations & certifications are:

Master ~ 1996, Engineer ~ 1999, Surveyor ~ 2012, Valuer ~ 2014, Mechanics ~ 1987, Diver ~ 1996

RTM TRAVEL LOCALLY, NATIONALLY & INTERNATIONALLY

Established in 2011, with 25 years previous industry experience both sea and shore based, RTM assist vessel owners and crews with vessels of all configurations and sizes for all their professional requirements. RTM is proudly a family-run business which is determined to provide sound, reliable, oldfashioned service.

For a discussion about your survey requirements, call RTM on 07 5556 0035 or email rod@rtmarine.com.au

Gold Coast Canvas are proud to be from the Gold Coast and are dedicated to bring the best canvas products to the Gold Coast and surrounds. www.goldcoastcanvas.com.au We bring you the very best in eye catching custom marine covers and upholstery. We can help you bring your boat back to life. All of our work is completed to the very highest standard using only the best materials sourced from around the world. We are your exclusive Gold Coast Seadek certified fabricators.

DIESEL FUEL TREATMENT SYSTEMS

Count on us for fuel quality, protection and reliability in all environments

Diesel fuel is often contaminated with microbes, like bacteria and fungi, which feed on hydrocarbons and water (from condensation, rainwater, or adsorption of water molecules from air). Biodiesel is especially good at attracting and absorbing water molecules. Microbes will usually grow on fuel tank walls or at the interface where the diesel floats on the water. If left untreated, the microbes quickly multiply and create a type of ‘sludge’ which interferes with the efficient operation of the diesel engine, initially by blocking filters and injectors. Engine performance suffers, fuel consumption increases, and engine maintenance becomes more expensive. Blockage of the fuel system, causing engine failure, becomes a real possibility.

PFM Blue is a non-toxic, eco-friendly, world first technology fuel treatment system designed to destroy the ‘diesel bug’ microbes without the use of harmful chemicals.

PFM Blue fuel conditioning units use a combination of UV light, which interferes with the microbes’ ability to reproduce, and magnetic fields to completely destroy the organisms. The units also remove water from the diesel, preventing further contamination, and improving fuel efficiency.

PFM Blue fuel improvement products are available in two different types of units: INDIVIDUAL INLINE UNITS These units are installed between the tank and engine along the supply lines. They will improve fuel quality, as it flows, directly to your engine. There are several units (from the GP04B to the GP32B-BKC) which cater for engines that range in power up to 10,000hp.

RECIRCULATION UNITS FOR CONDITIONING OF BULK FUEL STORAGE TANKS

The recirculation units have been developed for two different purposes: The first range is designed for maintaining a variety of new or cleaned tanks of up to 28,000L capacity. The second range (commercial units) is designed for cleaning a variety of tanks of up to 57,000L capacity.

All recirculation units condition and clean the fuel, improving its quality, while maintaining the ISO 4406:2017 Standard for Diesel Fuel.

Options are available for remote operation and additional systems monitoring, BMS (battery management system) interconnection and SMS text monitoring.

I t is inevitable that if you own a boat and it has been sitting unused, it will develop odours. Often just a good airing out will take care of the problem. But if not, you will have to find a way to eliminate the offending aromas or risk losing your crew to a fresher smelling vessel.

The cause of boat odours can come from many sources. Think about fuel funk, stinky head, damp anchor and rope lockers, galley areas, tackle tubs and mildew or mould often associated with bunk upholstery. Discover how to eliminate the source rather than just masking the smells with toxic sprays or messy gels. Let’s add that running costly electric dehumidifiers and air conditioners, apart from the noise, are becoming a no-no these days due to planet climate concerns.

Here is the good news captains. Proven by many users since introduction to Australia in 2016, the pure linen non-toxic Kingpin Activated Charcoal Eco Packs , 20cm (500g) and 16cm( 200g) will naturally absorb allergens, odours and moisture to purify the interior air of your boat, caravan or home.

Not forgetting the WOW factor. When Kingpin Eco Packs are placed in the sun occasionally for an hour, the UV rays will disperse the unwanted elements of odours and moisture, allowing recycled use again and again for more than two years.

Learn more www.kingpinteam.com

KEEP YOUR BOAT REFIT ON TRACK WITH GCCM

Are you ready for your vessel’s next refit?

Do you know exactly what needs to be done and have found the right marine experts?

Have you booked your lift and your time on the hardstand?

These are some of the worries we can help you with!

For 22 years, GCCM has worked towards creating a community of passionate boaties. When you bring your boat to GCCM, you can rely on a personalised approach from arrival to accessing our site and project management services that will make your refit or maintenance time painless.

Nothing at GCCM is too hard or cannot be solved. Each project is delivered specific to the needs of the boat and her owner. Our project team schedule the contractors to get each vessel back in the water faster and more efficiently.

boatyard in Opua, New Zealand, and more recently Calypso Bay Marina here on the Gold Coast.

Andrew, our COO is the President and Chairman of the Marina Industries Association and a founding member of the Australian Marine Industry Advisory Group. His extensive background in marina and boatyard management provides the team with loads of experience and ideas.

22 YEARS’ EXPERIENCE OF GCCM LIFTING

Our experienced machine operators will work with you to match your boat to the best, safest and correct lifting device.

GCCM’s shipyard is serviced by 5 different boat lifting machines offering the know-how, means and versatility to haul out vessels of all different shapes and size:

● Smaller vessels from jet skis to 35 ft bow riders looking to use our award-winning boat storage facility or access on-site work areas.

● Wide beamed vessels such as catamarans up to 10 m in width

● Sailing vessels can be hauled out to take advantage of our on-site keel pit and 18m high undercover work areas.

● Vessels up 300-Tonne with a 10-Metre (32 ft beam)

We offer complete flexibility as to how your boat maintenance and restoration works are managed. You can either choose to DIY, coordinate your own works directly with our marine contractors or call us to get full end-to-end project management and take away the stress of deadlines, budgets and quality control.

OVER 90 EXCEPTIONAL MARINE BUSINESSES AT YOUR TRANSOM DOOR

Give us a call: 07 5502 5888 www.gccm.com.au

SIGNIFICANT DEPTH OF EXPERIENCE OF THE MANAGEMENT TEAM AT GCCM

Our project management team is led by Shaun Quinn. Shaun brings with him from Cairns overall nearly 30 years of marine expertise and the last 13 years of Project and contract management experience on vessels anywhere between 5 and 3000t. He has a vast experience in maintenance support services including minor and major refits and ship system upgrades.

GCCM senior management are located onsite, and the Project Management team is supported by very experienced specialists like our Dockmaster, Nick, who has extensive marine experience having managed the

At GCCM, we take your boat refit very seriously and aim to offer a choice of the best marine contractors in the industry. Some of our tenants have been working together for 20 years! They represent every conceivable marine trade and service and employ more than 900 individual craftsmen, tradesmen and technicians. No matter the job or the marine equipment you need, our Project Management team gets the work done and will organise the work between the best specialists available. Just make sure you plan and contact us well ahead so we make sure you can get the quality contractors and workmanship your boat deserves.

ACCESS TO ALL IN HOUSE FACILITIES AT GCCM

GCCM is a 175,000sqm marine precinct servicing local boaties and superyachts sailing through the Gold Coast. Our boat yard features:

● 50,000sqm of hardstand with the options of fully enclosed sheds as well as undercover work areas for vessels up 100 feet

● Multiple boat lifting options including 50 and 300 tonne travelifts, 12 and 14 tonne forklifts, 45 tonne hydraulic trailer, and accommodation for vessels with beams of up to 10 metres.

SAILING BOATS TOO!

This beautiful 60ft Beneteau just finished her beauty lift with our project management team organising: hull works, antifouling, re-wrapping, prop and rudder repairs, electric defect rectification, AC and refrigeration system maintenance.

With 22 years of experience lifting vessels, you can be assured that you can trust our professional team with your boat for your next haul out.

ON TIME. ON BUDGET. ON WATER.

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 stu they sweat and the boundaries they push to deliver the best quality outcomes for boats of every shape and size. That’s why we are Australia’s most highly awarded marina & shipyard.

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

ISLAND GYPSY BOATS reincarnation of the iconic Aussie brand

Marked by traditional lines, tremendous interior volume, and smart functionality the latest models including IG40, IG50 and IG65 are a proven hit with both local and interstate owners. Having delivered 17 boats over the past 18 months, and with a further 8 on order, there’s never been a better time to explore the good times aboard your own Island Gypsy Motor Yacht.

F eaturing wide walk around decks, a huge all weather aft deck and oversized swim platform, it has a beautifully equipped airconditioned galley with adjoining dinette to complement the aft deck convertible diner seating up to 8 guests. All models feature dual cabin airconditioned accommodation with a well-appointed bathroom and separate shower.

The reincarnation of the iconic Aussie brand, Island Gypsy motor yachts have really struck a chord with cruising couples and families.

The evocative old-school brand has been re-imagined with new styling, 5-star finishes and all the luxuries, for a competitive price. “They’re beautiful, extremely comfortable, and practical. After building 100 boats over many years, we’ve sorted out all the issues that arose on things that deteriorate over time and break down, such as plumbing. Our vessels are plumbed like a house with PVC piping so it lasts longer and with minimal maintenance. All the plumbing is upgraded, including Vaccuflush toilet systems, which means there is less noise, less maintenance, and less to break down.

Boating should be low maintenance and pleasurable. With Island Gypsy, we have sought to minimise the cost of ownership and make boating a breeze.”

Give us a call, visit our web page: boatsinternational.com.au or drop into our floating office and display. Pier “H” Gold Coast City Marina Paul 0421859273 Grant 0402811175 Brett 0414997654

“We invite you to join the Island Gypsy family and experience a new world of boating satisfaction.”

Sirocco Marine RIB Super Showroom

aboard superyachts as an Engineer. He also lived and worked in Germany employed by Volvo.

Returning to the marine sector and moving from Sydney to the Gold Coast appealed to Ryan for a chance to become part of a passionate boating community and a more leisurely pace of life for his young family. “I’ve attended many boat shows here and know my way around, but I’m looking forward to exploring the waterways, meeting customers and getting them into the on-water lifestyle.”

Sirocco Marine Queensland, under newly appointed director, Ryan Slater is in the process of kitting out the largest RIB showroom in the country for inflatable boats spanning 2.2 to 12 metres from the world’s most recognised brands.

Taking on a superyacht shed at Gold Coast City Marina & Shipyard as Sirocco Marine’s Queensland headquarters, Ryan is gradually filling the massive space with RIBS with both alloy and fibreglass hulls, by Sirocco, BRIG, Williams Jet Tenders, Northstar and Zodiac, following Sirocco Marine taking on sole distribution for Australia for the iconic French brand.

At 900 square-metres, the ground floor will feature the larger RIBS and a dedicated air-conditioned office, while the mezzanine will showcase smaller vessels.

As Ryan explains, “We plan to have one of every model in the Zodiac range, including all the options and engines, so that owners can be on the water within days.”

Sirocco Marine supply and fit engines by Honda, Yamaha and Mercury and have close connections to their service technicians.

Despite the impact of the war in Ukraine, Sirocco Marine is confident BRIG, which is based in Kharkiv, will return to production by mid-2023. In the meantime, stock of the 40 Sirocco-branded RIBS and 10 Northstar RIBS has arrived, and by January, Ryan will welcome nine containers of the latest model Zodiac boats, from 4.2 to 9 metres.

“By the end of January, we will have nearly 300 RIBS in the showroom – a RIB for every use and every budget,” adds Ryan. A Naval Draftsman and Marine Diesel Mechanic by trade, Ryan’s background includes a two-year stint with Liam O'Halloran at Sirocco Marine South and several years

A major milestone for the Zodiac brand in Australia is the appointment of Sirocco Marine as sole distributor. “We’re very pleased and proud to be representing the iconic French brand, Zodiac, which enjoys global renown,” said Neil Webster, Managing Director of Sirocco Marine. “Zodiac is the original RIB manufacturer and the biggest in the world. I travelled to the Zodiac’s headquarters in France, met the entire team from the CEO to production manager and spent a considerable amount of time with them to immerse myself in the history and heritage of the brand. Zodiac invests heavily in R&D and innovation. We’re excited to see where we can take Zodiac in Australia.”

All Zodiac models imported into Australia will have tubes made of Hypalon, chosen for its resistance to UV, chemicals and temperature extremes and its air tightness. Fitting neatly between Sirocco and BRIG RIBS, the Zodiac RIBS will appeal to owners seeking a sturdy, reliable, stable RIB tender, or a stand-alone day boat for diving, fishing and safe family boating. “We’ll carry Zodiac tenders and bigger boats from 4 metres to the 9-metre model,” says Ryan.

“In the Open style, we’ll offer 4.2, 4.8, 5.5 and 6.5-metre models, in the Pro range 5.5 and 6.5 metres, and in the popular Medline range, we’ll have the 6.8, 7.5 and 9-metre models. The 9-metre Medline has a cockpit kitchen, centre console with cabin and toilet, which is popular with families and adventurous owners wanting to stay out on the water longer.”

Many more exciting plans are in the pipeline, including the arrival of some remarkable 7-metre day boats from Europe in time for the 2023 Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show.

In the meantime, Ryan is working flat out to prepare the showroom ahead of the arrival of hundreds of RIBS.

“People will have an incredible range to choose from and all the after-sales support and service they need,” he said. “We know RIBS inside out and can match them up with one to suit their boating lifestyle.”

Zodiac is renowned for pioneering the inflatable boat. With a history dating back to 1880s when its engineers specialised in airships, Zodiac Nautic prides itself on “125 years of air and water”. In the 1930s, their expertise was called on to develop an inflatable boat for the French Naval Air Force which sought innovative solutions for military transport, and thus, the Zodiac rigid inflatable boat was born. Favoured by French diver, environmentalist and film maker, Jacques Cousteau, Zodiac boats were brought to international attention in the 1960s via the series, The Undersea World of Jacques Cousteau. Over the many decades, Zodiac Nautic has invested in R&D and evolved its manufacturing processes, techniques and materials. Zodiac Nautic also pioneered removable tubes for easy maintenance, repair, replacement, transport and storage.

For more information, contact Ryan on Ph: 0490 864 694 siroccomarinequeensland.com.au

Ryan Slater, Sirocco Marine Queensland, newly appointed director

NAVIGATION MARKS THE COMING IN AND GOING OUT RULE

Navigation marks are the equivalent of road signs on a highway. It is important to be aware of what is meant by the various marks. Upon entering harbour the port (red) mark should be passed on the boat’s port (left) side, while the starboard (green) mark should be passed on the boat’s starboard (right) side. When leaving harbour the port (red) mark should be passed on the boat’s starboard (right) side, while the starboard (green) mark should be passed on the boat’s port (left) side. Set to memory these easy ways to remember how to navigate. Port to Port, when heading to Port. Green to Green when heading upstream. Stay on the right of the stream and the right of the oncoming boat.

Heading Offshore

CROSSING BARS AT THE SEAWAY, JUMPINPIN AND SOUTH PASSAGE

By Nic Welch

f you are considering venturing offshore for the first time, and need to cross a coastal bar, then please take heed of this advice: Do not attempt it in your own boat without having gained experience multiple times in another vessel skippered by someone else who knows the bar in all weather conditions.

I

Conditions on a bar can change quickly and without warning, even on a good day. Even the Gold Coast Seaway, which is the safest coastal bar to cross in Southeast Queensland, can be particularly nasty in an ebb tide, with a large swell and strong breeze. Going out through a coastal bar on a high tide in light winds and small swell is a totally different scenario to coming back in after a day’s fishing when the tide turns, the wind is up, the swell arrives, or wind-swept seas are present.

There are three bars that can take you from the Broadwater and Southern Moreton Bay out into the ocean. Crossing any of these three bars from the Broadwater and Southern Moreton Bay require different local knowledge. It is, therefore, important to know the current conditions for the specific bar that you are venturing to cross.

CROSSING THE GOLD COAST SEAWAY

When crossing the Gold Coast Seaway, log on with the Seaway Tower, VMR Southport, or Coast Guard Southport using VHF channel 16 or 73, then log off upon your return when safely back inside the bar.

Inside the Gold Coast Seaway entrance, pay special attention for board riders paddling across the Seaway, and also for scuba divers and snorkelers diving along the popular southern wall of the Seaway. At sunrise and sunset, it is particularly difficult to notice board riders paddling across the waterway, so please take special care.

Once past the heads of the Seaway, avoid heading northeast immediately, as there is a large shallow bank, which often has large breaking waves only a couple hundred metres off the Seaway entrance and can easily catch you off guard.

CROSSING JUMPINPIN BAR

Jumpinpin Bar lies between South Stradbroke and North Stradbroke Islands. If considering crossing Jumpinpin Bar, my simple advice is: Do not attempt it if you do not need to.

Jumpinpin Bar is a notoriously dangerous bar. It is much safer to either drive your vessel down to the Gold Coast Seaway, or tow your vessel behind your car and launch at a ramp close to the Gold Coast Seaway. The extra fuel costs involved in doing so is well worth it.

If you do decide to cross Jumpinpin Bar, it is imperative that you do so only on a day with a very small swell – and you must seek advice from VMR Jacobs Well prior to doing so. Never attempt to cross Jumpinpin Bar without local knowledge, and always wear a lifejacket.

Jumpinpin Bar is so dangerous that you must log on with VMR Jacobs Well using VHF channel 16 or 73 prior to heading out through the bar. You must also make contact with VMR again once you have safely made it across the bar itself. The same applies when heading back in through the bar; make contact prior to crossing the bar, and once again once you have reentered sheltered waters.

CROSSING SOUTH PASSAGE BAR

South Passage Bar lies between North Stradbroke and Moreton Islands. Like the Jumpinpin Bar, South Passage Bar is dangerous and is no place for novice boaties. Only ever cross on a small swell, and only with local knowledge. The time for rescue services to arrive can be well over an hour, so wearing a lifejacket is imperative.

Traditionally, there are three main channels you can take. The first is a channel closest to Amity Point on North Stradbroke Island and is only navigable on a very small swell. The second channel is in the middle of the bar. When taking this channel, you must keep a proper lookout for the Rufus King shipwreck, which is only partially exposed and is difficult to see in all weather conditions. The third channel is at the northern end of the bar next to North Stradbroke Island.

Please be aware that you can encounter miles of breaking waves when crossing South Passage Bar, so you should always seek advice from VMR North Stradbroke about which channel is the most suitable as sand banks are constantly shifting on this bar.

You must also log on with VMR North Stradbroke or Coast Guard Brisbane prior to heading out through the bar. You must also make contact with them once you have safely made it across the bar itself. The same applies when heading back in through the bar; make contact prior to crossing the bar, and once again once you have re-entered sheltered waters. VMR North Stradbroke can be contacted on VHF channel 16, and Coast Guard Brisbane can be contacted on VHF channel 16 or 73.

BE SAFE

Never underestimate a coastal bar. Even small waves can capsize, swamp, or sink a boat. If you are unsure or inexperienced, do not go out and risk lives. Wait until conditions are good for you to cross safely. And once again, always wear your lifejacket.

Stabicraft 2250 Ultra Centrecab available at Northside Marine

Stejcraft BoatingLifestyle

& CONFIDENCE

Salena and Graham Poyser are new to boating and were keen to build on the basic knowledge they obtained during the boat license process, so they engaged the services of Karla Herbert-Evans from Nautical Training & Marine Services, to ensure they achieve maximum enjoyment out of their boat whilst still remaining safe.

The sessions with Karla entailed boat handling skills including low speed manoeuvring, docking and navigation, as they made their way to Tipplers followed by a winding return journey through the northern branch of the Coomera River.

As a Boatsafe training provider since 2006, Karla has had the opportunity to offer comprehensive education to both new and experienced mariners, that give them the skills and knowledge to confidently undertake basic navigation, boat

handling and understand the safety requirements and their responsibilities under the law. Upon successful completion of your course, Karla will issue a Certificate of Competency or Achievement Award.

Karla’s sessions are always detailed and a fun way to improve your boating skills, allowing new boat owners to gain confidence with all aspects of boat handling.

“The session with Karla made a huge difference to our level of knowledge and certainly gave us confidence to tackle small trips on our own. The training was delivered in a calm and considered fashion with the rationale explained too. Karla also provided some takeaway reading that will act as a reference point for us. We have booked another session where hopefully we will tackle crossing the seaway and exploring other areas of the Gold Coast. For us, it’s well worth the investment.”

For further education about your boating, Karla recommends Advanced Practicals and Offshore Navigation Courses. To book these courses or boat licence and jet ski licence training and assessment, as well as AMSA Exemption 38 course, contact Karla directly at karla@ nauticaltraining.com.au Ph: 0412 550 570

STEJCRAFT SS64 SD

The family purchased a brand new Stejcraft SS64, an exciting sports runabout offering family comforts for relaxed weekend boating.

The high quality bowrider specifically designed for Australian conditions, built tougher than competing sports boats in this class, is capable of rough inshore and offshore waters, and the boat looks absolutely world-class.

The SS64 is 6.4m in length and has a 2.45m beam that can carry 200lt of fuel in the tank. The spacious universal layout lends itself to any type of water sports you are undertaking, while offering luxurious comfort. The seating, easily able to accommodate eight people on board, is deeply inserted into the cockpit for a safe feel when in an adrenaline-filled sports mode, or while simply relaxing.

The helm allows for a built-in 7” GPS sounder. A high quality stereo system is built into the dash connecting four speakers, well positioned around the cockpit, and a six-gang switch panel with spare switches for future accessories.

Offering outstanding maneuvering flexibility, the hull will not drop off the plane at a low speed, allowing for a young child to kneeboard at safe speeds. The hull also naturally creates a fantastic wake for the aspiring wake boarder. And most importantly, with a 21-degree dead rise, the hull makes easy work of those bad weather conditions, ensuring your family will get home quickly and safely.

www.stejcraftboats.com.au

STEJCRAFT SS64 SD SPORTS BOWRIDER

Karla Herbert-Evans from

Nautical Training & Marine Services

FIRE EXTINGUISHERS ABE Powder versus CO2

What Every Boat Owner Should Know

By

we had experienced, CO2 is perfect, every bit as good as ABE powder. CO2 extinguishers are not so good, however, at putting out deeply-seated fuel fires where the fuel has been absorbed into a substrate like unsealed wood, cardboard, paper or canvas. This is because they extinguish the fire in just two ways, firstly by temporarily depriving it of oxygen, and secondly by cooling the fuel below flash point. In a deeply-seated fire there is always the risk of reignition as the CO2 (unlike ABE powder) dissipates and the ambient air puts heat back into the material. But there is no mess.

depending on the time it is left in contact with the surface. It can also have a deleterious effect on electrical terminals, exposed wires and switches.

P ortable fire extinguishers of many different kinds, using various propellants and fire suppressing agents, have been around for a century or two. In Australia today, however, there are only about six kinds approved for general use, just one of which is in regular private use.

Most privately owned extinguishers are the ABE powder type. These are readily available, cheap and effective. However, they have two serious drawbacks.

ABE extinguishers are identified by a white band (see photo left) at the top, while CO2 extinguishers have a black band. The first drawback with ABE powder extinguishers is that they make a mess. In September last year while holidaying with my wife at the Gold Coast on our boat, we over-primed the stove and set fire to the cockpit. I extinguished the fire with an ABE extinguisher, but it took two days and a trip back to Brisbane with a load of washing to fully clean the boat and resume our holiday.

I started investigating alternative types of extinguishers. I was particularly keen to know more about carbon dioxide. The professional advice I received was that for hard (non-absorbent) surface fuel fires, the kind

A second advantage of CO2 extinguishers is that the actuating valve will not leak after usage. With powder extinguishers, as soon as the powder starts to flow, even for the shortest time, the valve will not close perfectly and the propellant (nitrogen) will leak away after just a few hours. So, basically, powder extinguishers are one use only, whereas CO2 can be tested for a split second and still remain useful in the long term. A 2 kg CO2 unit has about 16 seconds of full pressure running time, so a half-second test burst is not a big loss.

Unlike powder extinguishers, CO2 units have no pressure gauge, but with suppressant and propellant being one and the same, serviceability is easily assessable by weight, clearly a more reliable method than a cheap gauge. A fully loaded 2 kilo capacity unit should come in at just over 5 kilos (3 kilos when spent).

CO2 extinguishers have an operating pressure of over 50 bar, more than twice the pressure inside a powder extinguisher. This means they need to be of more robust construction, typically with a wall thickness of 5 mm compared to less than half that for powder. They are also of seamless, fully blown, aluminium alloy construction, with no base weld. This is a distinct advantage in marine environments.

The second drawback of ABE powder applies to boats made from metal, particularly aluminium alloy. ABE powder reacts with aluminium. If sprayed on an untreated (that is, unpainted) aluminium surface, it will quickly disfigure that surface and cause a degree of structural weakening

A third drawback to ABE extinguishers is that they need regular servicing. While CO2 units only require a periodic weight check, ABE units need active rejuvenation every six months or so (in addition to checking their pressure gauges). This is because the powder tends to clump at the bottom of the canister blocking the exit tube and, over time, this clumpiness can prevent proper egress when the valve is actuated. The solution is to tap the base of the canister with a rubber mallet and then upend the extinguisher to assess a change in balance resulting from the powder flowing from one end to the other.

It needs to be noted that CO2 is less dense than ABE, so the extinguishers are just a little larger for the same weight. However, this was a minor issue for me and CO2 was the only way to go. I now have a 2 kilo CO2 extinguisher in my boat and a 3.5 kilo unit under my house. I feel confident of being able to handle future fire emergencies with this type of extinguisher. Hopefully, though, there won’t be any.

Arthur Marcel ABE White Band

Specialty Finishes

CHECK OUT THESE GREAT PRODUCTS FROM OUR RANGE

NORTHANE GLOSS: The premium two-pack aliphatic linear polyurethane for durability and fade resistance. Excellent chemical, waterproofing and weathering properties. Ideal for refurbishing most surfaces and where a superior long lasting coating is required. Available in 20 great standard colours (unlimited range of factory tints upon request).

WEATHERFAST PREMIUM ENAMEL:

A balanced blend of premium raw materials to produce the highest quality marine grade enamel. For use on prepared steel, aluminium, concrete, timber and other surfaces where performance and durability is paramount. 22 Great Colours.

SHIPSHAPE PRIMER-UNDERCOAT:

The ultimate high-build performance coating to obliterate background irregularities and provide filling properties prior to coating with single or 2-pack finishes. Suitable for areas of continuous immersion and osmosis repairs. Commonly used as a primer-undercoat and as a topcoat in the bilge areas of boats because of its satin gloss finish.

NORTHANE CLEAR: Northane is a food grade chemical resistant coating, perfect for bar tops, vanity units, co ee tables, benches & more. It comes in a crystal clear gloss or satin finish, plus a vast range of solid colours. This is the perfect finish over any epoxy System. Satin finish also available (interior use only). Sizes 500ml to 10 Litre.

STAYBOND GLUE: Easy to use 2 pack glue. Solventless and non staining with exceptional strength. Bonds to most prepared surfaces. Timber, metals, fibreglass, concrete, fibro, ceramics and glass. It is totally waterproof when cured. Excellent gap filling and non sagging characteristics.

NORFILL

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FILLER: A paste-like white, waterproof filler that can be sanded and left as a finish, or painted over. Norfill has excellent non-sagging properties so that even large cracks or holes can be filled in one application. Norfill is solventless and does not shrink, making it the perfect filler where strength and adhesion is important.

NORSEAL WOOD TREATMENT:

A water clear epoxy solution designed to penetrate, seal and waterproof particle boards and timbers.

WEATHERFAST POLYCLEAR

GLOSS & SATIN: A tough abrasion resistant gloss coating with high levels of U.V inhibitors for interior and exterior use. Ideal for floors, furniture and marine applications. Also available in satin finish for interiors to produce a natural lustre.

MICROSHIELD: A traditional marine spar varnish. Clear, low odour, high gloss urethane/alkyd blend with high levels of state of the art inhibitors and stabilizers for maximum exterior protection.

ORANGE PEEL: A citrus style paint stripping gel using the latest technologies in resins and additives for high performance.

GREY-AWAY: For restoring the natural colour of timber prior to clear coating. It can also be used for removing stains on fibreglass surfaces.

HAVE YOU CONSIDERED A

Foreign Flag ?

T here are potential advantages for Australian boat owners to register or ‘flag’ their boats on the shipping registers of other nations. Such registries, known as ‘open registries,’ or more colourfully as ‘flags of convenience’, compete internationally to attract ships to their flag. Open Registries offer ship registration services based on efficient service delivery and cost effectiveness. Most of the world’s shipping is registered in open registries such as Liberia, Panama and Marshall Islands, to name a few of the larger registers. Such nations become known as the ‘flag state’ for the ship.

The advantages of an open register are also available to the Australian boatowner, and this article will briefly describe how and why an Australian boat-owner might consider flagging their vessel in an open registry, after first considering the requirement to flag in Australia.

AUSTRALIAN FLAG

By contrast to Panama and Liberia, Australia is a ‘closed registry’, which means that the Australian ship register is only available to an Australian-owned ship. The opposite is also true, in that an Australian-owned ship must be flagged in Australia.

The great majority of Australians own their boats as ‘Australian Ships’. That is to say, the boat is owned by them personally or through an Australian company structure. That makes the boat an ‘Australian-owned ship’, and that is sufficient to ensure that the great majority of Australian-owned ships are registrable in Australia. Indeed, the Shipping Registration Act 1981 (SRA) requires a ship that is Australian-owned to be registered in Australia on the Australian General Shipping Register if:

1. The ship is greater than 24 metres in tonnage length (note that tonnage length is not the same measurement as length overall), or

2. The ship intends to go on an international voyage, regardless of its length.

It is an offence for an unregistered ship to depart from an Australian port to a place outside Australia (s68 SRA) or to depart from any foreign port (s69 SRA) unless the ship is registered with the Shipping Registration Office, which is part of the Australian Maritime Safety Authority.

The effect of these registration laws are that all Australian-owned ships greater than 24m in tonnage length, and all Australian-owned ships going on international voyages must be registered in Australia.

But that is not the end of the story. The registration obligation only applies to legal ownership of a Vessel, and Australians can still own vessels beneficially through another legal structure. So, there is nothing stopping an Australian owner of a boat from transferring their legal ownership to a foreign company that they also control. By doing so, the choice of open registries becomes available.

FOREIGN FLAG

One of the quirks of maritime law is that the flag of a ship applies the laws of the flag state to the ship wherever in the world it may be: whether on the high seas or cruising along the coast or in port. In some circumstances, the laws of a coastal state (the country where the vessel is being operated) may also apply to the vessel. So for example, Australia requires foreign-flagged vessels to take marine pilots before entering ports, and also applies immigration and quarantine laws to ships entering Australia. But on the whole, the laws that apply to a Vessel all of the time are the laws of the flag state. These laws will generally govern marine safety, employment, licensing of crew and so on.

Importantly, there is a maritime law principle known as ‘the internal economy rule’ that gives the laws of the flag state priority over the application of the laws of a coastal state when the issue under consideration is a matter of the ‘internal economy’ of the ship. So in general terms, the owner of a foreign-flagged ship with a foreign crew is not required to comply with the Australian Fair Work Act (although there are some exceptions for coastal trading permits and where crews of ships are majority Australian).

The advantages of foreign flag are then available for a boat that may be controlled by Australians, but legally owned by a foreign company and registered in a suitable open registry.

WHY CONSIDER FOREIGN FLAG?

There is a range of benefits associated with registering a boat in an open registry, including cost, efficiency and privacy advantages. The laws of the flag state that apply to their vessels is a vital consideration.

There is a tendency in many first world nations for regulation to become increasingly complex and for regulators to become increasingly bureaucratic in their approach to marine safety. By contrast, open registries tend to use specialist service providers in the administration of the registry, often in places outside of the country. For example, Liberia is administered by a private American company

By Capt. John Kavanagh, Principal Lawyer - Master Mariner

The Wolf Hound – American schooner style is a Maritime Cook Islands (MCI) registered yacht

Pacific Maritime Lawyers are Australian registrars for the Caribbean nation of St Kitts & Nevis (SKAN)

from New York, USA, and the Marshall Islands registry is administered by another private American company from Virginia, USA. These Open Registries also employ a range of specialist flag state inspectors and recognised organisations (generally class societies) to allow shipowners to certify and maintain their vessels to the relevant international maritime standards required by all coastal nations. The comparable advantages of an open registry against the use of traditional closed registries (such as Australia) are almost self-evidenced by their enormous success. The last 40 years or so have seen that vast majority of the world’s merchant fleet be flagged in open registers.

These advantages are also available to the Australian boat-owner, at relatively modest cost.

ST KITTS & NEVIS (SKAN) OR MARITIME COOK ISLANDS (MCI)

At Pacific Maritime Lawyers, we are the Australian registrars for the Caribbean nation of St Kitts & Nevis (SKAN) and we routinely assist Australian owners to flag their boats with SKAN. The SKAN register is administered from London, and SKAN law is based on British Maritime Law that is still the international standard across the world. SKAN is a reputable flag, and is increasingly becoming a popular option for Australians. Closer to home, Maritime Cook Islands (MCI) is an increasingly popular choice. Not only does the flag of the Cook Islands look attractive flying from the stern on a boat, but the MCI law is based on New Zealand maritime law, which shares the same heritage as Australian and British Maritime Law. These are not the only options of course, and we can assist with the range of options available.

CAN I OPERATE A FOREIGN-FLAGGED VESSEL IN AUSTRALIA?

The short answer is, Yes. All vessels intended to be operated in Australia indefinitely need to be ‘imported’ and GST and Duty paid. But once that has been done, there is no legal impediment to a foreign-flagged vessel operating in Australia indefinitely. If the vessel is carrying passengers or cargo, then:

• it may operate on intra-state voyages (such as operating in Queensland waters only) without any restriction;

• Inter-state voyages are also available depending on the nature of the ship and cargo (if any) through the coastal trading permit scheme.

We regularly find that boat owners are under the impression that a vessel being operated in Australia indefinitely must be Australian-flagged. That is not the case.

If you want to know more about foreign flag for your boat, please reach out to us at info@pacificmaritimelawyers.com.au.

"Not only does the flag of the Cook Islands look attractive flying from the stern on a boat, but the MCI law is based on New Zealand maritime law, which shares the same heritage as Australian and British Maritime Law."

- Capt. John Kavanagh, Lawyer

White Rabbit the largest aluminium tri-hull in the world that flags with the cook islands

The Cook Islands Yacht – Able Tasman – arrived in Avatiu harbour

Pacific Maritime Lawyers can assist clients with Maritime Cook Islands (MCI) registrations.

THE OKEAN 52’ FLY

WIDEN YOUR WORLD

Discover OKEAN 52 - An impressive and striking design, the OKEAN 52 Fly, with its 15.14 meters of length, and over 6 meters width, with extended balconies, draws attention from the distance for its unique design that combines “adventure and elegance”. Italian architect Paolo Ferragni is the accredited designer and responsible for the creation of the entire OKEAN line. Mr Ferragni has made his mark with panoramic windows and glass doors that surround the boat which provide a 360° view from the inside to the outside area and can be enjoyed from anywhere within the vessel, from the kitchen to the dining table or at the main helm station. Another point of difference is the curved stylish furniture throughout this vessel, providing the comfort of a home and safety whilst navigating, and a retractable hide-away 50-inch built-in television in the main hall.

Just arrived, the OKEAN Yachts factory in Brazil has delivered the new 52 Fly. The performance, design and refinement combined with sophisticated navigation systems creates an overall innovative and superior vessel. The boat captivates you with its highquality construction, open and integrated layout, stable navigation, and extendable sides that integrate the exterior and interior bringing the outside in and creating extra entertaining areas.

“OKEAN Yachts is a 100% Brazilian owned and built company with a great reputation in the open market niches across the world. The company has grown from strength to strength over the past 5 years producing vessels ranging from 50 feet up to 80 feet. This new model in the portfolio will certainly surprise with its comfort, constructive technology, prestigious navigation, with an open design that connects the interior of the boat with the sea,” explains Roberto Paião, CEO of the OKEAN Group.

The OKEAN 52 also stands out with its large external decks, including extended side balconies on both port and starboard sides and a large hydraulic swim platform at the stern that further expands the beach club area and is also equipped with a grill and sink as well as a large sofa that connects to the kitchen located in the cockpit at the rear, making it ideal for socialising. The flybridge is a large “terrace over the water” with a second helm station, couches, and sun bed for relaxing and sunbathing. The bow offers a charming private lounge area, with sofas, a dining table and sun protection in the form of a custom awning. Downstairs to the lower deck are three very comfortable cabins, with capacity for seven people for overnight stays, with a master cabin amidships, a double bed fwd in the bow and another double bed with a bunk to the port side. The combination of colours, quality materials in high gloss, and a refined finish complete the interior design of the yacht.

Professional True Bluewater Deliveries

By Tanya Rabe

Tom Carlisle has found a way to combine his love and profound knowledge of boats to create a successful business that many of us boaties dream of. Ocean X specialise in bluewater, big boat delivery solutions, primarily concentrating on motor cruisers - vessels that are too large to be trailered or trucked over land.

Growing up on Port Philip Bay, Tom and childhood friend Hamish MacArdie competed against each other racing Sabots, but their friendship really formed at the finish of the 2000 Melbourne to Hobart Race. The youngest competitors that year, and still many years away from being old enough to go to the pub and celebrate with the rest of the competitors, the two young adventurers found their own way of celebrating – which may or may not have involved trying to join their older sailing mates.

Over the years, Hamish continued sailing, becoming a successful shorthanded sailor, winning the Melbourne to Osaka two-handed race. Tom took a different path into the world of commercial boating, gaining qualifications as a commercial trainer, teaching both powerboat and sailing courses. In 2017, Tom and Hamish joined forces to launch Ocean X.

between package helping new customers purchase vessels from distant locations, making sure the purchaser is getting the best professional representation on the ground, ensuring the vessels meet stringent safety requirements and meet the customers’ expectations and requirements prior to purchase.’

As it did with many businesses, Covid caused havoc dropping chaos in the form of red tape, and plenty of it. Determined to find solutions for his clients, Tom persevered with overcoming newly instated bureaucratic protocol, positioning Ocean X as the only vessel delivery company that could legally move between every state in Australia. ‘It was an insane amount of paperwork,’ according to Tom, ‘bureaucracy, risk assessments, insurance liabilities, certificates and hard work, but with patience it could be done and once it was done, it was my IP’. Busier than expected, and with Hamish based in the US delivering boats in the Caribbean, Tom left his office job at Sirrocco and headed back to sea.

In a short period of time, Ocean X became the delivery service of choice for brands such as Maritimo, Rivieria, Princess, Sunseeker, Nordhavn, Fairline, San Lorenzo, Ferreti, Viking, Salthouse, Caribbean, Steber, Lagoon, Clipper, Integrity and Precision. Specialising in true bluewater deliveries, Ocean X rarely do anything shorter than 1,500 nautical miles at a time. With this in mind, Tom and his crew go above and beyond when it comes to preparing a motor vessel for the open ocean.

Prepping the boat for a delivery starts at the bow. The anchor chain is removed, the anchor well and chain cleaned of debris and rust. A large foam matting is placed in the bottom of the anchor well, strategically prepared to prevent the anchor from inverting in the well in rough seas – an important safety protocol for emergencies.

Next job is protecting the cockpit floor with two layers of rubber matting and a sheet of 10 mm heavy duty corflute. This area will house and secure the extended fuel tanks that are intended to last the distance of the delivery without stopping. Once the protective cushioning is removed, you wouldn’t even notice anything had been there – an example of the precise attention to detail which is second nature to the Ocean X crew.

Internally, everything that comes with the vessel is carefully packed and stowed away. Respecting the owners, Tom and his crew don’t use any of the cutlery, crockery, or vessel appliances, opting instead to take their own equipment, including their famous rice cooker that has cooked everything from banana cakes to pot roasts. Even the crew’s toasted sandwich maker doubles as a BBQ. ‘We provide our own bedding and towels, making sure that everything that comes with the boat is delivered in the exact condition we picked it up,’ says Tom.

Deliveries started at a young age for Tom. ‘It was a way of making extra money after a bluewater race, or before a big event like Hamilton Island or Geelong Race Weeks’. Even while working as Qld Sales Manager for Brig, Sirocco Marine in Coomera, Tom still found time to take on bluewater deliveries in between boat shows and busy periods.

Ocean X deliver vessels, both interstate and internationally, offering a time and cost-effective alternative to loading vessels onto ships for transportation. Typically, the boats they work with range from 50 to 120 feet. Tom and Hamish offer much more than your standard delivery service. ‘We offer a go-

Every hatch, window and door, both internally and externally, is resealed with plastic wrapping and hatches (except for emergency exit hatches) are taped down from the outside. Hull windows are covered in 5mm thick plastic corflute and taped externally to reduce the likelihood of damage from both large seas and contact with old, wooden wharfs that may be used in ports throughout the voyage.

The entire aft section of the vessel is wrapped in biodegradable plastic to stop exhaust carbon from penetrating the pores of the fibreglass. ‘Given we may be doing as much as 350 hours motoring in two weeks, the average boat doing this trip would have been washed 20 times and polished 6 times’, explains Tom. Wrapping protects the gelcoat and prevents the need to cut and polish, extending the life of the shine.

Anything inside the boat that could be damaged or might age while at sea is protected, including all the floors and carpet, all walls, doors, cupboards, benchtops, tables, fridges, ovens and appliances. Everything is cleaned, wrapped and covered like a Christmas present to ensure the highest standard of presentation for the day of hand over.

The whole process takes two crew members three days to complete. Explaining Ocean X fees for the process, Tom says, ‘If the job was rushed, it would probably only take two days, which is why we only charge for two days labour, but we are happy to foot the extra day because it is our choice to treat every boat like it is our own pride and joy. We are very particular in making sure everything is spot on perfect and we don’t feel it’s right passing on the extra charge to our customers.’ Independent workstations are set up by the team, including Satellite Link with 24/7 tracking,

Fairline 65 prepared for sea, Fremantle to Sydney

Josh Robinson celebrating hand over day in Fremantle, after delivering this Fairline 68 from Sydney.

HF radios, VHF handheld with AIS receiver, Wi-Fi monitoring cameras, multiple tablet chart plotters, Epirbs, life rafts, tool kits, emergency equipment, first aid equipment, charging ports, extension cords, inverters, fuel transfer pumps, sea drogues/anchorsthe list goes on and on. ‘Needless to say, we have to book extra baggage on our flights.’

Ocean X pride themselves on providing a door-to-door service and solution in vessel deliveries. They organise everything, from import/export requirements and insurance, to arranging specific equipment needed to service and maintain the vessels’ engineering while at sea. As Tom says, ‘We offer solutions to vessel delivery logistics, not problems.’

Unless the weather dictates otherwise, Ocean X crew don’t stop overnight at marinas to get a good night’s sleep. The crew agree, ‘We are mariners. We get fantastic sleep cruising at 9 knots through the night’. Underway, Tom and

his team of specialists make a point of not burning extra fuel just to get to a destination five hours early, instead they maintain the best fuel burn to speed ratio, which is often well below 10 knots.

Not for the faint hearted or for those looking for a pleasure cruise, the Ocean X team pride themselves on being professional mariners who know and understand the capabilities of the vessels they have been contracted to deliver. Not only do they know the boats they are delivering inside out, but they also have a comprehensive knowledge of the weather to maximise their opportunity to push efficiently towards their destination without being exposed to undue risk.

Ocean X customers have mostly been recommended by word of mouth and generally by someone highly respected within the marine community. Common feedback received by the team compliments their ability to relieve the stress and confusion of purchasing a vessel and/or relocating it. ‘Most clients are just looking for a ‘one call - one signature solution’ and once they find us, they have already discovered our reputation within the industry.’

Tom, a genuine straight talker, doesn’t apologise for not having the cheapest delivery teams in the market, ‘because that’s not what we are.’ ‘We are a solution. A solution that comes in at less than half the price of our shipping competitor with none of the headaches associated with shipping.’ Ocean X understand that all boats, both new and second hand, have teething issues. By the time they have finished the delivery and hand over the vessels, those issues have been ironed out and fixed. All as part of the service.

The service doesn’t end at handover either. Ocean X also offer training and ongoing support for the vessel owners, even helping some customers years later in planning their own offshore voyages and assisting them with weather and navigational knowledge.

On average, one Ocean X crew will do between 50,000 and 70,000 nautical miles per year. That’s three times around the world in one year! Customers know they are in highly experienced hands. ‘Our record speaks for itself. Our reputation speaks for itself.’ Tom isn’t shy about connecting new customers with old customers. Transparency is the name of the game. If anyone needs reassurance, Tom has a long list of customers who have agreed to share their experience. ‘I can tell them what we do, and our customers can tell them how well we do it’.

Follow Tom's Facebook page for the latest www.facebook.com/oceanxxx

Josh on left, his father Richard on right passing through the Esperance Archipelago WA.

44 Riviera "Resident Evil" escaping covid lockdown in Sydney to be delivered to its new owners on the Gold Coast.

Becalmed in Bass Strait, Perth to Pittwater,

From left, Capt Tommy Carlisle, deck hand Larry "Lobster" Acheen, engineer Josh Robinson.

Refuelling a Fariline motor yacht, (L) Josh Robinson, (R) Richard Robinson (Josh's father)

PARDO GT75

ENJOY PRIVILEGED CONTACT WITH THE SEA

P ardo Yachts have unveiled their latest project: the Pardo GT75, set to accompany her younger sister Pardo GT52 in the range. With her nearly 23 meters in length The GT75 is going to enhance the winning features that have already made the GT range unmistakable.

The new flagship of the Pardo Yachts fleet is positioned between the Walkaround and Endurance ranges, where the focus on extremely comfortable interior volumes goes hand-in-hand with the hull lines typical of a high-performance 75-footer.

The luxurious and elegant character of the interior will be the perfect setting for the owner who wants to experience the boat as a villa on the sea: spaces and volumes perfectly designed to optimize each corner of the boat, from the living area to the accommodation spaces.

The design of the interior, as well as the exterior, has once again been entrusted to Nauta Design, masters in knowing how to intertwine the refinement of furnishings with the efficiency of space distribution. Also for GT75, the elegant interior layout is available in a galley-up or galley-down version, allowing the owner to experience the boat in a more convivial or more private way.

The master cabin has an en suite head with fine finishes, confirming Cantiere del Pardo’s attention to interior design. The accommodation space varies according to the owner’s needs: the layout of the lower deck is in fact designed to accommodate two, three or four cabins, for a total of 10 berths.

For the exteriors, large sundecks and lounge areas on the aft and foredeck will be the perfect terraces to enjoy privileged contact with the sea. Enjoy two options; Tender Garage or Beach.

In the Pardo GT75 Tender Garage, the cockpit layout is designed to accommodate a very large sundeck, aft of the C-shaped seating area: this section lifts electrically when needed, revealing a dedicated garage for the tender. This solution fully reflects the typical approach of the superyacht world, where housing the tender on board is a must-have feature.

In the Beach version of Pardo GT75, the entire aft section can be transformed into an extended terrace overlooking the sea. This is enabled by hydraulically controlled side wings to shape the entire area according to owner’s wishes. From this exterior open space is possible to directly access the master stateroom thanks to electric sliding glass windows. This is a suite dedicated to the owner, furnished and designed with extreme attention to detail, with privileged views towards priceless panoramas and breathtaking awakenings.

Overall length: 23 m. Maximum beam: 6 m. Fuel tanks: 4200 L. Fresh water tank: 1200 L. Standard Engines: 3 x D13 IPS 900. Optional Engines: 3 x D13 IPS1050 /1200 /1350.

For more information, visit Pardo Tachts at www.eyachts.com.au

World’s smallest water jet system

World’s smallest & most versatile water jet system. A versatile and lightweight propulsion systems, weighs just 3.3kg, with adaptors for snorkelling, scuba diving, kayak, SUP, and optional mountings for GoPro, LED Light, and wireless remote communications. SCUBJET has a running time of upto 2-hours underwater at 9km/h and above the water for upto 4-hours at a speed of 16km/h.

Greg Shipton

SUCCESSION PLANNING

for your business

Marine Industry Business Broker Mick Godwin Explains

Not to be confused with exit planning, a good succession plan provides a pathway for both planned and emergency succession for your business.

It can stipulate a transfer of ownership and guide who does what for a period of time, helping to minimise disruption to your business if something should happen to you or your family. But succession planning is not just about preparing for the unexpected; it will also assist your transition into retirement and out onto the water in a very expected and controlled manner.

So whether you're planning for retirement in 3 or 30 years, a good succession plan is another way your business will continue to grow and thrive into the future.

My name is Mick Godwin, and I see owners running their businesses with the notion they won't have to worry about exiting for another 150 years.

But the reality is, it's not just retirement, divorce, or worse where succession plans help; a good succession plan can determine the following:

● The transfer of ownership when the time comes.

● The transfer of senior management when required.

● Identifying and preparing younger employees.

● If a sale is necessary, it outlines how the sale is to be completed.

● Inheritance distribution of the proceeds of the sale.

● Identifies any tax advantages.

● Provides a safety net so the business is prepared for any unexpected disruptions.

● Reduces stress when transitioning out of your business.

These are all benefits of succession planning after the fact, but there are real tangible benefits of having a succession plan that your business can reap right now. For example, some of your employees will be upskilled before any succession occurs. This will help with minor disruptions like a broken leg or allowing you to take an eight-week holiday.

In addition, it can lead to higher job satisfaction as employees see a pathway for their future and help to ensure managers provide a higher degree of support to their employees.

And lastly, the benefit that we're most interested in; it will increase the value of your business when you sell, as it will increase buyer confidence and ensures your company is prepared and ready to thrive for life after your time.

Now that you see how beneficial a succession plan is for your business, where do you start? It does not have to be long or arduous. The good news is for small to mediumsized businesses, you can probably detail the whole process on a couple of pages.

First things first, understand the scope of the plan; is it just ownership succession or some key roles that need to be mapped out? For ownership succession, this only has two considerations. One, is it just a transfer of ownership or management succession too? If it's management succession, how much power will they have? Will they have the first right of refusal to purchase the business if a family member doesn't want the ownership, or do they want to sell it whilst the manager is still there?

Remember, it's not just relevant to you departing; having succession plans for employees means their roles can be replaced without much input from yourself.

For key roles, are you looking internally or externally for a replacement? If you have potential candidates internally, then what skills will they require? Share your plan with them; you would rather hear about their future plans of moving interstate now rather than later, as they'll likely continue to be a fantastic employee until they leave, just not a succession candidate.

Sometimes, key employees can receive a small percentage of ownership for the gratitude of service. This also provides confidence that the business will have stability for an unexpected event as family members might not have the capacity to make the right decisions.

You can have plenty of other considerations once you start going down the rabbit hole, but it doesn't have to be long. First, discuss some ideas with family members or key staff and then with your solicitor.

Keep anything to do with an exit plan separate. If you want to learn more about exit plans, keep following my articles for more on exit planning in the future.

If you want to know more about succession plans and what's involved with selling your business, then get in touch using the details below. I'm based on the Gold Coast, but I look after businesses right across the country because rarely is your 'best' buyer also your neighbour.

I help my clients successfully exit their business at the highest price, in good time, and without stress.

Mick Godwin Ph: 0416 638 154 mickgodwin@benchmarkbusiness.com.au

“Folding and nesting dinghies aren’t a new concept, but ones designed and built with exceptional performance and high-tech construction are.” - 48 North Magazine, USA

If you’ve been working too hard, or maybe lost that work and life balance, it’s time to get a little lifestyle back. Talk to the team at South East Finance to secure pre-purchase finance for a boat, jetski, motorbike or car. They will help you finance your new toy, so you can start to reclaim your weekends and enjoy more of your life with family and friends. Get your toy loan today!

AUTOMATIC BILGE SYSTEM

SeaPen automatically drains, checks for water every two hours and goes back into standby mode. A unique solution to keep your boat out of the water and gives you peace of mind

SAFE AND EASY DOCKING SYSTEM

No more jumping off the boat to grab mooring lines or the boat. The SeaPen acts as a boat catcher allowing you to easily park your boat even on your own, making boating enjoyable and SAFE for you and the family!

PATENTED ROPE MESH TECHNOLOGY

Maximising the air space around your boat allowing ventilation for your hull to breathe. In addition, protecting the SeaPen skin from props and trim tabs, and allowing the water to drain quickly away from your boat to the SMART bilge system for drainage.

REMOTE OPERATION

Operate your SeaPen with a press of a button like a garage door, making it a fast, convenient and safe system in which to garage your boat.

ADVANCED POLYMER SKIN TECHNOLOGY

Prevents barnacle growth on the outside of the skin making it virtually maintenance free – you don’t need to clean the SeaPen skin.

SPEND YOUR PRECIOUS TIME BOATING!

The SeaPen will keep your boat CLEAN & DRY to prevent barnacle and other growth on your hullprotect your boating investment long term.

SAFE & EASY DOCKING

EASY ACCESS

EASY OPERATION

Paddy’s First Impressions Paddy’'s First Impressions

GOLD COAST BOATING LIFESTYLE

By Andy Kancachian

There aren’t many changes that Paddy wants to make to his boat to make it ready for Queensland usage. “I am planning to install an electric anchor winch, which makes life so much easier when boating, and I will brush up on my local waterways rules and destinations,” he says.

While the family has yet to explore the local waterways, their first impressions are that it’s going to be great fun. Paddy intends to mostly go fishing with his wife and friends, but also do a lot of cruising with his extended family onboard.

BASIC BOAT OWNERSHIP TIPS FOR S.E. QUEENSLAND

● If you are wanting to access more remote locations of S.E. Queensland waterways, Jacobs Well is an ideal launching point. The area has a recently upgraded, very large, world class boat ramp, allowing access to the renowned fishing location where whiting and jewies, even threadfin, salmon, and snapper are caught.

Like many people, Indhiran Padayachee (Paddy) is finally relocating to the Gold Coast for the good weather and climate. The schoolteacher from Patterson Lakes in Melbourne, who migrated from South Africa in 2005, is moving permanently to his Jacobs Well home, which he purchased recently. Wanting a change of lifestyle to escape the cold of Melbourne, Paddy and his family were attracted to the warmer weather and easy access to nature of S.E. Queensland. They decided that Jacobs Well would be a relaxed and peaceful place to live, and an excellent spot for the prolific boat owner and keen fisher.

“Those quiet mornings before sunrise are exceptionally memorable. I am fascinated with the Australian boating lifestyle, so I have owned 4 boats over the last 12 Years. My first boat was a 1986 Bonito Craft which I purchased in Gold Coast and had transported to Melbourne. Second was a 1996 Haines Hunter as I wanted an upgrade. Third was a 2016 Ocean Master 490 series run-around, which was newer, and I now own a 2004 model 580 Haines Hunter Breeze.”

“Our aim is to explore the islands of the Gold Coast and Moreton Bay, and to find those rewarding fishing locations. We have owned the Haines Hunter 580 Breeze for 5 years. It was included when we bought our Melbourne home and, at the time, seemed like a good upgrade from my old

● S.E. Queensland is subtropical, so in January it is going to rain, and rain, and rain, and a cabin boat is ideal. If you buy a small to medium size runabout, half cabin or bowrider, it is advisable to install an extended bimini cover and side clears to protect your family from the sun, wind, and rain.

● If your boat is larger than 8 metres, you may only travel at up to 6 knots on some rivers and canals of the Gold Coast. Below that length, you can travel at up to 40 knots.

● Ideally, you want to own a cabin boat, so your family can go away for overnight trips. S.E. Queensland is the gateway to the best boating area in the southern hemisphere, and you can sail around the Gold Coast Broadwater and Brisbane's Moreton Bay, staying in breathtaking overnight destinations at various coves and sandy beaches. It is a wonderland, where you can boat all year round and never visit the same destination twice. You will often pinch yourself at how lucky you are to live this boating lifestyle.

boat. Being a quality-built Haines Hunter, which provides a spacious cabin for the family to get away from the elements, and a large fishing deck for when the action gets serious, the boat has served its purpose well.”

Based on his years of first-hand experience, Paddy is happy to share his boating advice. “Make sure you have an electric anchor winch and a good boat motor that will not let you down. My first boat motor developed a sudden fault. The throttle became stuck with the motor on very high revs, and I almost crashed into a pier. So, make sure your boat is wellserviced regularly.”

Boat Gold Coast magazine plans to follow Paddy on his boating journey, hearing about his adventures and understanding his decisions for his next boat purchase.

● The inland waterways are usually calm, but don’t be misled because the chop can become treacherous, especially in Moreton Bay.

● A good understanding of navigation is important because you will need to stay within the channel markers to avoid all the sand bars and shoals, and you should know the rules that apply within the green zones and no-fishing areas.

● The tide usually runs out quickly, so the ability to estimate the low tide level while at anchor will safeguard you from beaching your boat.

● Also, in certain locations near the seaways to the ocean, make sure you can swim or row against the strong tidal currents.

● Finally, ensure that your annual rescue membership is paid and, if you are heading offshore, check-in with the seaway tower before leaving.

VOLVO PENTA DEALER NETWORK

MARINE

AND SUPPORT

Your local Volvo Penta dealer handles all warranties, questions and related repairs. To ensure you get the best coverage – regardless if it’s for your engine, parts or accessories – speak to your local Volvo Penta dealer to find out more.

VOLVO PENTA ONLINE SERVICE PROTOCOLS

Serious protection for your propulsion package. Our Volvo Penta warranties mean expert support, speedy repairs and access to our world-class Dealer Network.

Precision engineering. All Genuine Volvo Penta products are rigorously tested to ensure optimum uptime. We will deal with any issues quickly and safely so your system always runs as it should.

WARRANTY – LEISURE

Focus on what matters – Easy boating. As a leisure-use customer, we know you want to make the most of every moment spent on the water without distractions. As the owner of a Volvo Penta leisure engine, you enjoy our improved warranty for both your engine and transmission system.

Up to 5 years of protection. Our warranty protection covers your complete engine and accessories package for the first two years, and for the following three years, it covers all major components. Our warranty commitment is measured in years or total operation hours*, whichever occurs first.

Extended Coverage. Purchasing extended warranty covers your entire engine package for a total of five years* – an excellent option for peace of mind and fully transferrable at the time of sale.

WARRANTY – COMMERCIAL

Robust and reliable. All our Commercial engine configurations enjoy a limited warranty cover of 12 months or a set number of operating hours*, depending on the product and application use. Consider adding Extended Coverage for even more protection while you work.

Volvo Penta Genuine Parts and Accessories. We’ve got you covered. Working with our experts ensures the safest, most reliable service. All parts and accessories supplied and installed by one of our authorised Volvo Penta workshops are covered by warranty for 24 months – excluding wear and tear. The fitted parts warranty is for either 24 months, 600 hours (for leisure use) or 3,000 hours (for Commercial use), whichever comes first. Your robust warranty protection will also cover any labour in fitting the part. Parts sold over the counter are covered by a 12-months replacement warranty (no labour)

Protect your investment and stay ahead with Volvo Penta service protocols. Working with our expert dealer network not only ensures the safest, most reliable service – but allows the importance of logging data and enabling access to information, including service history, warranty repairs and any campaigns that have been completed.

The Online Service Protocol, completed at every service, complements the operator’s manual and gives you an overview of the required maintenance points. Online service protocols are stored in our system and can be pulled to show your engine's service records, adding value by showcasing an adequately maintained asset. This ensures peace of mind that your investment and boating pleasure is supported. Only authorised Volvo Penta workshops can keep your equipment details up-to-date and access the specific facts and history recorded within the network. This is an essential consideration when it comes time to sell your vessel; the records will be invaluable for any prospective buyer.

Maximise productivity – minimise the unexpected. Your Volvo Penta dealer will design your engine service according to your specific needs, from regular inspections to comprehensive service and maintenance programs. Our dealers stay up to date with continuous training to ensure that your engine is optimally maintained.

Stay in Control – Ask, is my vessel being serviced by an authorised Volvo Penta dealer? As a proud

Contact your local Volvo Penta dealer today to request an up-to-date copy of your Online Service Protocol or email support@seamech.com.au

*Hours

for more details.

a new generation of excellence

Introducing a new generation of our D4 and D6 propulsion packages, from 150-480hp. After having spent years refining and developing the proven platform ever further, this complete system delivers new exciting features – from helm to propeller. All to offer you the ultimate boating experience.

Learn more at: www.volvopenta.com/en-au

FJORD 53 XL

ATTRACTS ACCOLADES AFTER ITS GLOBAL DEBUT AT THE CANNES YACHTING FESTIVAL

The extremely impressive new flagship of the Fjord range is eminently set-up to enjoy sublime summer boating. It effortlessly fulfills the function of a floating day party platform with unmistakable Scandi style. But that doesn’t do the 53 XL justice.

It’s more than capable of spiriting two couples or a family away for a weekend getaway at a deserted beach or secluded anchorage, complete with luxury appointments, then swiftly returning to port courtesy of 30 plus knot performance.

The 53 XL also offers the luxury of space - the largest T-top and deck area the acclaimed Nordic brand has ever designed, while the engines are set further back to create more volume below. Wide steps lead from the expansive swim platform to the chic cockpit that offers relaxed dining and entertaining courtesy of two height adjustable foldable tables, a U-shaped bench with reversible backrest and two separate galley units with fridge and cooking grill.

The Fjord 53 XL delivers plenty of down-the-line speed from either the standard twin Volvo Penta IPS700’s, or IPS 800’s that are projected to push maximum speed out to 34 knots.

Windcraft’s Managing Director Anthony Bishop who was in Cannes for the flagship’s launch was particularly impressed by the T-top’s standard of engineering.

“If you have spent time on day boats you often find that the sunshades or hard tops have been designed more for aesthetics than any practical protection from the elements,” he points out. “The new design from Fjord ensures that you have good protection from the sun (or rain), when you need it, and even at speeds over 3040kts there is no movement in them,” Bishop reports. Windcraft also commissioned the first Fjord 41 XL hull to be delivered to Australia in December 2022, in time for its owner to enjoy the benefits of its distinctive open deck design. The 41 XL, like its larger sibling the 53 XL represent the next generation of Fjord designs with bigger T-tops, along with clever modular seating layouts for the cockpit and cabin layouts that maximise space and comfort.

Fjords are easily recognisable, a nearly vertical plumb bow, high freeboard, bold, horizontal sheer line, frameless windshield, a spacious flat deck layout and an open transom. They combine spectacular one-level boating lifestyle amenities with high-quality Scandinavian influenced interiors and are certain to impress.

debut at last year’s Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show, a Fjord 38 Xpress was delivered to Perth.

No doubt day trips to Rottnest Island will be on the cards this summer with the 38 Xpress’s speed, comfort and versatility making it the perfect platform for accessing the island’s beaches thanks to a maximum draft of just under one metre (0.94 metres).

The standard set-up of two outboard 300hp Mercury Verados delivers 38 knots, while twin 350hp Verados sees the 38 Xpress achieve an exhilarating 43 knots.

An integrated sun awning can be extended from the T-top to cover the sun pad at the rear that opens hydraulically to store a tender.

The 53 XL’s level of customisation is exceptional; you can configure it to your own personal preference. Hull, deck mouldings and fabric colours are individual choices but there are also dozens of layout combinations on the main deck.

Down below the accommodations are flexible. The standard two-cabin, one-head layout can instead be specified with a fully-furnished second head for guests and even an additional third cabin, for crew or kids.

The Fjord 41 XL was voted 2021 European Power Boat of the Year in its class and praised for its pioneering modular deck options and the ability to configure nine different deck layouts. There’s a spacious master cabin in the bow with a double berth, two wardrobes and head with separate shower. A second cabin can be configured with another double berth or as a utility room with the option of an extra sofa and wardrobes.

The 41 XL has either Volvo or Yanmar sterndrive power, which affords shallow water operation and enables the boat to be nudged up to a beach. The model destined for a Sydney owner is matched to a pair of Yanmar 370hp V8 sterndrives capable of reaching 33 knots.

The Fjord 41 XL is the second stunning Fjord handed over to an Australian owner in 2022. Soon after its

In entertainer mode the 38’s aft cockpit lounge with a height-adjustable table for eight that converts to a sun lounger and creates a sea terrace with unbeatable views. An outdoor galley with wet bar, grill and fridge located behind the 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.

At 11.63 metres the Fjord 38 Xpress is 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.

Fjord’s six model range all share similar admirable aesthetic traits plus an emphasis on quietness and elegant surroundings. Chief Designer Patrick Banfield is well-known for his classic Wallytender and one-off superyacht tenders for Feadship.

For more information including pricing go to www.teamwindcraft.com/fjord/

MERCURY MARINE INTRODUCES V10 OUTBOARDS

ALL-NEW 350 & 400HP VERADO

Mercury Marine, a division of Brunswick Corporation (NYSE: BC), today introduced the industry’s first ever V10 outboard with the official launch of its all-new 5.7L 350 and 400hp Verado® outboard engines.

Consistent with the award-winning Verado brand, the new V10 engines are the quietest and smoothest in their class running 45 percent quieter than a leading competitor at cruise. In addition to noise vibration harshness (NVH), the new Verados are compatible with the latest Mercury SmartCraft® technologies.

“The all-new Mercury V10 Verado outboards are exactly what boaters have been asking for in a 350 and 400hp platform,” said Chris Drees, Mercury Marine President.

“They are powerful, smooth and quiet. They have many of the same fuel efficiency-enhancing features that are synonymous with our highhorsepower line-up.

“They also deliver the same kind of premium boating experience that has made Verado outboards legendary. The V10 Verado outboards solidify Mercury’s leadership position in the high-horsepower outboard market.”

The V10 Verado outboards leverage many of the same market-leading features and technologies boaters love about the company’s popular V12, V8 and V6 platforms. The new V10 includes premium refinements and versatility for a wide range of applications, from large saltwater centre consoles to single-engine freshwater fishing boats to pontoons and smaller centre consoles.

Weighing only 316 kilograms and with the same industry-leading 26-inch mount spacing as the V8 outboards, the V10 engines maximise compatibility with current boat designs. This lightweight, compact design provides the performance boaters are looking for and makes them perfect for multi-engine applications or repowering vessels.

Mercury Australia and New Zealand will introduce the new V10 Verado in the region from April 2023.

NATURALLY ASPIRATED 5.7L V10 ENGINE

The new platform features the outboard industry’s first V10 naturally aspirated powerhead. It leverages class-leading 5.7L displacement and a performance-inspired quad-cam design to propel boats ahead with exceptional speed and acceleration. A class-leading 150-amp alternator swiftly charges onboard batteries and intelligently supports the boat’s electrical system.

ALL-NEW GEARCASE

The platform’s all-new hydrodynamic gearcase is engineered to improve performance and durability across multiple applications while also maximising fuel efficiency. Mercury engineers went back to first principles engineering and designed the all-new Revolution X propeller to perfectly match the V10 Verado in every way. Larger diameter and wider blades combined with the deep ratio of the new gearcase provide excellent handling, thrilling acceleration and high efficiency from low speed all the way to wide-open throttle.

EFFICIENT ALL-AROUND PERFORMANCE

Calibrated to deliver full performance on Regular Unleaded (91 RON), these outboards also feature efficiency-enhancing technologies, a closed-loop fuel system and Advanced Range Optimization (ARO).

INTUITIVE FEATURES AND ADVANCED TECHNOLOGIES

Adaptive Speed Control maintains engine rpm despite changes in load or conditions, making climbing large swells easier and cruising at low speeds smoother. Transient Spark Technology electronically adjusts spark timing to optimize low-end power.

The V10 engines will also be compatible with a new Mercury electric steering system for multi-outboard vessels, set to be introduced in April 2023. The new system will offer enhanced steering responsiveness, dramatically simplified rigging and a more than 50 percent reduction in energy consumption.

The new Verados will be offered with an optional dual-mode 48V/12V alternator to seamlessly pair with Navico Group’s Fathom® e-Power System, an integrated lithium-ion auxiliary power management system, providing boaters the opportunity to eliminate an onboard generator system.

“We challenged our engineers to improve acceleration and overall performance with the new V10 Verado outboards, while also making them quieter and lighter than competitors’ outboards in this horsepower range,” said Tim Reid, Mercury Marine Vice President of Product Development and Engineering. “Once again they exceeded expectations while also incorporating technologies that make boat operation and maintenance intuitively simple.”

The development of the V10 Verado outboards is a product of Mercury’s continued commitment to invest heavily in R&D and production capacity to keep up with customer demand. To that end, the company has invested $2 billion since 2008, and its manufacturing footprint has expanded to more than 275,000 square metres.

For more information on the all-new Mercury V10 Verados contact (07) 3808-7333 or email sales@amcboats.com.au

CLEAN TANKS

F or thirty years Fuel Doctors has specialized in cleaning fuel tanks of all sizes and dimensions.

Due to the design and location of boat fuel tanks and the fact that 90% plus are baffled and inaccessible means cleaning them has always been an expensive and challenging exercise.

Thanks to the war in Ukraine, it has now got twice as expensive.

The fungal material that grows at the fuel water interface within fuel tanks is a slimy sticky substance that migrates throughout the tank due to agitation and emulsification when re-filling, plus the slosh when steaming in heavy weather.

Draining and refilling tanks will not eradicate the ever growing and multiplying Cladosporium Resinae (fuel bug), as you drain or pump the tank bottom contaminants, water at one kilo per liter is the heaviest followed by diesel or petrol at 840 and 740 grams, the bug weighs in at one kilo

per cubic meter and sticks to the walls and baffles where it will reinfest the incoming fresh fuel resulting in ongoing filter plugging issues.

Understanding the cancerous substance Cladosporium Resinae and its physiology resulted in the development of Fuel Doctor Fuel-Conditioner that we manufacture and use in all our tank cleaning and maintenance operations since 1992.

Fuel Doctor is detergent based so whatever surface it meets it will clean, it has two dispersants for moisture and fungal material breaking them into a micro emulsion that are suspended in the fuel, the final component is a proprietary lubricity improver ensuring the suspended contaminants do not damage pumps and injectors and in fact extending their life with on-going use.

Thousands of Aussie boat owners use Fuel Doctor for preventative maintenance however where a contaminated fuel system has been neglected and suffers constant filter plugging you have no choice but to clean the tank.

and bright.

With multiple tanks or even one large tank you can see how this process has now gone through the roof cost wise, today in Brisbane 11-11-2022 the average price of petrol is $2.25 a liter with diesel at $2.35. to dispose of a liter of contaminated petrol is $1.50 and diesel $0.45. consequently, there is a great deal of expense in purchase and disposal costs associated with boat tank cleaning.

The motto here is don’t let your tank contaminants build up to the point that the tank needs cleaning, these contaminants are like Cancer of the fuel system, after thirty years we know that Fuel Doctor is the best chemotherapy for your Cancer, however, no one kills Cancer with one dose of chemo, Fuel Doctor is no different.

www.fueldoctors.com.au

Fuel Doctors system for cleaning fuel tanks is to remove the tank bottom contaminants and fuel, we then introduce Fuel Doctor at a ratio commensurate to the degree of contamination extracted, then fill the tank with fresh sacrificial fuel at one third to fifty percent, again dependent on volume and degree of contaminants removed prior to agitating the fuel with high pressure pumps, the clean sparkling fuel and Fuel Doctor now present as river water, brown and murky, we repeat this process on average two to three times until a sample presents as clear

AT HORIZON SHORES

By Tanya Rabe

I had heard that Horizon Shores was a good place to go to get your boat repaired: short-term berthing options, fairly priced marine mechanics, and beautiful areas to explore nearby. After four hours of sailing, we knew we were getting close. There were several moored boats scattered around, mangroves with buoys bobbing around them, masts from ships at dock, and sheds that I knew our boat would eventually see.

After checking in at the office and getting to our berth, we decided to go for a walk. We stumbled upon Horizon Shores Boat Sales and popped in to get an estimate on the worth of our boat, and to get some recommendations for repairs we could make and what vendors to use.

good condition, but needed a few things to make it more reliable, comfortable, and profitable.

Luke pointed out, for starters, that we needed to replace our engine mounts. He noticed a couple were rusted; if the mounts continued to weaken, then our engine could run out of alignment, which is very dangerous. Next, he suggested that we get the boat out of the water and get it sandblasted, epoxied and antifouled at Morgan Vine Marine. Our boat has a polyester gel coat and while our boat was ok right now, in the long run we would save our boat from environmental degradation if we epoxy it.

Luke, who owns and manages Horizon Shores Boat Sales, was a really friendly guy who was genuinely excited about working with us and helping estimate our repairs. The three of us walked down to the boat. After about an hour of chatting and looking over the inside and outside, we walked back to his office and discussed his opinions and recommendations. He said the boat was in pretty

Next was the issue with the toilet. When we had the boat up on the hard at Victoria Point, we took the holding tank out and found a few rust spots, which were really weak. We could stick a screwdriver through with a small amount of pressure. We needed a new tank put in. Luke said that Marine Team was the place to go.

There were a couple of other things we wanted to get done, and by then we knew that Luke would know where to go and who to ask. First, we needed a new navigation system. While ours was ok, it

was a bit dated and weathered. Luckily, right next to Luke’s business was Marine and RV Technology, which could help us find exactly what we were looking for.

In Marine and RV Electronics, you will find Eddy, who also runs Marinetronics in Hope Island and has more than 20 years of experience in the business. In the store, there were various products from companies such as Raymarine, Victron, Fusion, and Garmin. He told us how important it is to stay in touch with the ever evolving technological world. His confidence and knowledge was reassuring and I knew he was the person to ask about navigation and sound systems. Going through what we want from our devices and how much we want to spend, Eddy helped us work out what was best for us. We left happy and knew we would be back.

Our next stop was Morgan Vine Marine. Morgan specialises in fiberglass, boat repair, antifouling and more. We told him we wanted to get the boat out of the water, sandblasted, epoxied, and antifouled. He jotted some things down and asked us if we planned to get any other work done to it. We told him our plans and he said our best bet was to

contact the riggers, and line up all the work for the same time. He was super helpful with quotes and made us realize that we needed to have our repairs all lined up before we got the boat out of the water. It would save us time and money. We knew, walking out, we would be back to set the plan in motion.

Our last stop was Marine Team, where we met Dave and Jane. They helped us figure out the plumbing and holding tank situation. They also offered fibreglass repairs, detailing, antifoul, and much more. Dave told us if we wanted to we could help them with the repairs so we could learn to do it ourselves. We thought that was awesome! He also gave us a few tips on where to throw our crab pots.

We reached the end of Luke’s list and were really excited about our repairs. Everyone we spoke to at Horizon Shores was super helpful and made us feel welcomed. I was happy to be there. The sun was setting over Moreton Bay and it was definitely time to open a bottle of wine and sit on the boat. We would put the plans in motion the next day, but for that afternoon, it was time to relax.

EDDY - ELECTRICAL

MARINE TEAM - REFITS

ANCHORED RIGHT QUALITY AUSSIE PRODUCTS

A nchor Right and Bar Crusher Boats have enjoyed a mutually beneficial business relationship for over 20 years. Ever since Rex Francis, founder of Anchor Right, and Peter Cleland, co-founder of Bar Crusher Boats, met at a boat show over two decades ago.

Peter was at the show not only to promote his boats but also to find a high quality, strong, highly effective anchor to suit the boats his company was building.

Rex reminisces, “Peter was motivated to check out other anchors at that boat show because he hadn’t found anything satisfactory at that stage to hold for Westernport Bay where they were filming to advertise their boats.” Of course, Rex was at the show to promote his business and he offered Peter a couple of his anchors to try out.

Peter points out that his company did its due diligence, trying a variety of other sizes and types of anchors, before deciding on Anchor Right. He was so impressed with their performance that his company placed an order – and have stuck with Anchor Right ever since. Thus began a business relationship and personal friendship that lasts until this day.

“Every boat that leaves the Bar Crusher factory has a SARCA anchor mounted on its nose,” says Peter.

Peter has actually dived to the seabed to observe closely how the anchors set and has been impressed that they work as intended and advertised.

Apart from the strong build and highly effective operation of Rex’s SARCA anchors, Peter likes the way that the anchors fit snugly to the bowsprit – not flopping around like some anchors on the market – and there was no danger of them coming loose when the boat was being trailered down a highway.

Recently, Rex and Peter met to reminisce about getting their businesses off the ground – or perhaps, more appropriately, on the water - and their common interests of boating and fishing.

As they chatted, the topic of anchoring in Western Port Bay, Victoria, arose. Peter recalls that, in the early days of Bar Crusher Boats, they wanted to take promotional photos in the bay and needed the boats to be securely anchored in a variety of locations. But the anchors being used at the time were not fit for purpose. The seabed in the bay with its areas of reef, gravel or weed meant that, at the time, no single anchor would work under all conditions.

Rex was reminded of when he would take his family fishing at Corner Inlet, north of Wilsons Promontory, which needs three older style anchors for the different conditions – a plough, reef and a sand anchor –depending on where you decide to stop and drop a line.

He also recalls, with some horror, when he was using a wire anchor off Rabbit Island in Bass Strait – he was advised to use a wire anchor because a different type

“might get stuck and you’ll never get it back”. Rex says, “The wind got up and the waves got up, and the anchor failed.” The boat, with family on board, was heading for the rocks and Rex was lucky to pull them out in time.

Afterwards he thought, “What’s more important –retrieving an anchor, or preserving your lives?”

Those types of experiences inspired Rex to design and build a better anchor. He says that, although no product is going to work in all conditions, Anchor Right goes a long way further towards achieving that goal than other anchors on the market.

Rex says that the average boatie is often unaware or unsure of how best to deploy, set, and eventually retrieve their anchors – compounding the problems presented if a lesser quality or improperly engineered product is being used.

In the interests of boating safety, Anchor Right endeavoured to get word out to the boating community on correct anchoring techniques. The Water Police and Coast Guard came on board, adding information on anchor rope ratios and printing educational booklets (from which Anchor Right benefitted indirectly as their products appeared!). So, word spread, boaties became better informed and quality products were used properly.

Peter believes the Bar Crusher name “captures the vibe of hardcore, passionate anglers who want to get out there offshore and have a good go.” And Anchor Right has the products to help keep them safe.

Rex and Peter agree that mutual support of Australian companies for each other helps ensure the survival and success of Australian jobs and businesses – a far better result than importing cheaper, often inferior quality overseas products.

www.anchorright.com.au

Rex with the SARCA Excel

The SARCA anchor has great aesthetics and will enhance the bow. Used on all Bar Crusher boats.

Strip and clean your next project using an eco-friendly, cost-effective, and fast solution.

ABRASIVE BLASTING - ANTIFOUL & PAINT REMOVAL

Safely remove years of old antifoul without damaging the gelcoat. Our process represents a huge breakthrough in surface preparation. There is no mess for you to clean up. Dust and contaminants are grounded, so no need for expensive containment.

Horizon Shores

OWNER & TRADE ENQUIRIES WELCOME PROFESSIONAL SERVICE

New Beginnings! Here’s To

The truth is: the n atural world is changing. And we are totally dependent on that world. It provides our food, water and air. It is the most precious thing we have and we need to defend it. - Sir David Attenborough

In 2019, a conservation program for young people was launched by New Beginnings on the Gold Coast. The program, Youth Marine Conservation Program, is designed to give students an introduction to the marine environment. “Involvement in marine studies can lead young people on to a number of rewarding career paths, giving them the ability to have a direct and positive impact on our environment,” according to Bernd Brauer, founder of New Beginnings.

The youth program involves three levels of engagement. The first level is focused on theory and learning the basic concepts of marine conservation. The second level is a deeper dive into the practice, opening possibilities for a career in conservation. These two levels are conducted in partnership with Sea World Gold Coast. The third level involves onsite activities that New Beginnings conduct. The students visit and conduct studies on the mangroves in Paradise Point, and the rockpools in Burleigh Heads. They are also able to snorkel around Wave Break Island, as well as having the opportunity to paradive.

According to Bernd, the marine program focuses on information and awareness, and gradually builds on a better understanding of climate change and marine conservation. “It is essential to engage young people at the earliest possible age in marine conservation. It is important for our planet’s, and their, future to understand the impact climate change is having and have them not only concerned, but willing to act to create a better future for us.”

Part of the education program is to involve students in beach clean-up drives. These activities are not meant only to clean the beaches, but also to educate students about the bigger picture concerning waste, why it is happening, and how it gravely affects our environment. The beach clean-ups directly involve the young people, and are usually conducted at the northern end of South Stradbroke.

THE BEGINNING OF NEW BEGINNINGS

New Beginnings is a not-for-profit organisation established in 1999. The organisation is dedicated to bringing positive change into the lives of our most vulnerable young people, reducing youth anti-social behaviour, and making our communities safer and more liveable.

They organise youth camps, mostly bush eco camps. These are school-based programs that are integrated into the curriculum.

Bernd believes that early intervention is crucial. “Studies show intervention programs for 10-12 year olds have the most significant impact on a young person’s self-esteem,” explains Bernd.

The following are testimonials from two participants of the youth weekend camps:

Good habits formed at youth make all the difference. - Aristotle

Elle came to us with her attitude and performance at school having taken a backwards step after her parents' marriage had broken down. She slowly began to open up during her camp weekend, and started to lead during the group activities. After the program, her school principal advised us that her performance in class had significantly improved. She had begun to speak out in class, and she was having a positive effect on her entire class by passing on some of the principles and ways-of-conduct taught in our programs.

A young at-risk person of aboriginal heritage was referred to our Self-esteem & Leadership Camp. Per advice from his guidance counsellor, he had been with a number of foster families. It quickly became clear that Daniel had never had any boundaries set. He initially acted in such a disruptive and adverse manner at camp to have the other camp participants ask for his removal on the very first day. Our staff and volunteers handled the situation, working in close cooperation with his indigenous day carer/counsellor. The change was remarkable. On the final day of camp, when his carer mentioned they had to leave early, Daniel's attitude had changed so much that all of the other young people voted to have him stay on to the end of the camp. At our final group gathering, he asked permission to give a thank-you speech. During the speech he admitted that this was the first time in his life that he had ever had the courage to speak in front of others, and expressed his gratitude for our persistence with him to let him stay, despite the extremely bad start. At our awards night later that year, we learned that he had been reunited with his birth mother, and was doing well at school. The risk of his deterioration into further anti-social behaviour was clearly reduced.

The beginning of New Beginnings was brought about by a tragic experience in 1997 that motivated Bernd to leave corporate life, to focus on engaging young people in order to ensure a better future for them. Hence, the birth of the youth intervention programs that focus on improving and enhancing self-esteem among the young people.

THE INTRODUCTION OF THE MARINE PROGRAM

The introduction of the marine program was brought about by the obvious threats of climate change. “More young people are getting involved in addressing climate change concerns,” shares Bernd.

Bernd does not only have keen business management skills through experience, he also has a passion for sailing and everything marine. Through the marine conservation programs for young people, he is able to continue the work to bring positive change in vulnerable young people.

“We live in such a wonderful environment on the Gold Coast. Judging by how engaged participants in our Youth Marine Conservation Programs are, with many continuing their involvement by volunteering in marine clean-ups or via further studies in the field, I believe that our young people have a very bright future ahead of them,” Bernd proudly shares.

For more information about New Beginnings Marine Conservation Program and how to get involved, please visit www.newbeginnings.net.au/marine-conservation

STABICRAFT CLASSIC GOES NEXT LEVEL

The 1850 Supercab is a reboot of a classic Stabicraft model, revisited and reinvigorated with a new and modern aesthetic reflective of Stabicraft’s latest design DNA. We have listened to feedback on the previous model and have incorporated some significant changes that greatly improved what was already a sensational boat. It’s longer, wider, drier, carries more fuel and delivers a massive interior volume where even the biggest statures will feel comfortable at the helm.

THE ALL-NEW 1850 SUPERCAB IS AVAILABLE IN TWO PACKAGES.

The "Adventure" package retains the no-frills appeal of the 1850-X1 it replaces, however it has a wider scope for upgrades. EVA foam is now standard fitment on coamings and topside surfaces, as is our new “Blade” seat support system that allows for the accommodation of a 70L split lid cooler bin beneath them. The Adventure 1850 Supercab comes with dual frameless sliding windows port & starboard and a 150L underfloor fuel tank. Options may be chosen from all of the most popular upgrades, including drum winch, wiper, hydraulic steering, elite bolster seating, bait board & transom walkthrough.

The 1850 Supercab “Sportfish” package raises the level of standard fitment by also including a raft of popular options such as Stage-1 paint, elite bolster seats, cabin lining, hydraulic steering, baitboard and even more. EVA foam is standard fitment on coamings and topside surfaces while full EVA flooring remains a selectable option. This package is made up of all the most popular options and caters for the buyer looking for a compact hardtop boat that ticks all the boxes.

FORECASTLE PLATFORM

The bow configuration has undergone a major upgrade. The bow rail is now bolt-on and it’s supplied with a powder coated finish as standard. The bow coamings have been flared out to eliminate the traditional nose cone and to produce a larger platform on the bow with the fairlead moved subflush where it’s out of the way. A forward anchor bin now accommodates a drum winch on the Sportfish package and the compartment is self-draining through scuppers in the forward coamings, well above the waterline. A hatch is included for light & ventilation in the forward cabin and this provides easy access to the anchor when recovering or deploying the anchor manually.

TRANSOM OPTIONS

The upper transom is shared with the 1850 Fisher and includes options for a removable bait board assembly or a fully-equipped Live Bait Tank with a sight glass in the front. Both options are powder coated as standard. The familiar fold-down corner seats also double as a useful step for climbing into or out of the boat and a transom walkthrough gate is optional on the port side. A large So-Pac hatch encloses a large rigging box for battery and rigging accessories.

UPDATED COCKPIT

A new dash design accommodates up to 16" displays and in combination with the full-width upper binnacle provides plenty of space for all the

electronic bells and whistles. Cabin lining is included in the Sportfish package consisting of EVA liners to match the coaming tops. There is accommodation for either flush mount or side-mounted throttles and the EVA padding extends to the footrest and centre threshold.

For more information about the range of Stabicraft at Northside Marine, contact Mark Golden PH: (07) 3265 8028 markg@nsmarine.com.au

SPECIFICATIONS:

PRODUCTS OF EXCELLENCE GARMIN

Garmin International, the world’s most innovative and recognized marine electronics manufacturer, is proud to announce that it was named Manufacturer of the Year in the large manufacturer category for the eighth consecutive year by members of the National Marine Electronics Association (NMEA) at its annual conference and awards banquet held Oct. 6 in Anaheim, Calif. The coveted title of Manufacturer of the Year is given to the most recognized company in the marine electronics industry for excellence in product service and support in the field.

Garmin was also awarded five Product of Excellence awards in the multi-function display (MFD), autopilot, multimedia entertainment, mobile application—utility, and automatic identification system (AIS) categories. These awards are voted on by NMEA dealers who specialize in installing marine electronics, qualified NMEA technicians and fellow marine electronics manufacturers.

“We’re proud to be a part of the NMEA and honored to be held in such high regard by our industry peers and customers as the Manufacturer of the Year,” said Dan Bartel, Garmin vice president of global consumer sales. “These awards represent our unwavering commitment to design, manufacture, sell and support the best marine electronics in the industry, and they validate the hard work and dedication of our entire team.”

This year’s NMEA Product of Excellence honors for Garmin and its brands include:

MFD – GPSMAP® 8616xsv

This 16-inch chartplotter boasts a full HD in-plane switching (IPS) display with multitouch control and comes preloaded with maps and charts along with support for optional Garmin Navionics+™ cartography with access to daily updates, Auto Guidance+™ technology1 and more.

The GPSMAP 8616xsv offers anglers exceptional sonar detail with built-in support for a wide range of CHIRP traditional and scanning sonars, Ultra High-Definition scanning sonar, and the entire Panoptix™ all-seeing sonar line, including LiveScope™ live scanning sonar. This is Garmin’s eighth consecutive honor in this category.

Marine Application, Utility ActiveCaptain®

A free mobile app for mariners, ActiveCaptain is an all-in-one companion app to onboard Garmin electronics that delivers a seamless content management system with access to cartography, automatic delivery of the latest software available, off-vessel planning capabilities, connected services and so much more. This is Garmin’s eighth consecutive win in this category.

Autopilot – Reactor™ 40 Hydraulic Autopilot with SmartPump v2

The Reactor was Garmin’s first recreational autopilot system to utilize AHRS technology and boasts usability, installation flexibility, and many other features that prove to be valuable for any vessel. With a new edge-to-edge glass touchscreen display, the included GHC 50 autopilot instrument not only looks good, it makes navigation simple and hassle free. For 10 years running, Garmin has been awarded the top spot in the autopilot category.

Multimedia Entertainment Fusion® Apollo™ RA770

This marine entertainment system was the world’s first touchscreen marine stereo with Apple AirPlay®, built-in Wi-Fi and network audio sharing capabilities. This extends Garmin’s winning streak in this category to seven years.

AIS – Vesper Cortex M1

The world’s first VHF radio with wireless touchscreen handsets and built-in Class B smartAIS transponder and remote vessel monitoring, Cortex alerts boaters of collision risks, providing key information about the situation to make communications easier and more effective.

Engineered on the inside for life on the outside, Garmin products have revolutionised life for anglers, sailors, mariners and boat enthusiasts everywhere. Committed to developing the most innovative, highest quality, and easiest to use marine electronics the industry has ever known, Garmin believes every day is an opportunity to innovate and a chance to beat yesterday.

For complete information on the Garmin range, contact www.marinervelectronics.com.au at Horizon Shores Marina, Eddy ph: 0423 667 259

SUZUKI MARINE

NEW INTEGRATED STEERING SYSTEM

S uzuki Marine has again raised the engineering bar in the outboard motor space, unveiling an optional integrated steering system for its flagship DF300B and DF350A 4.4-litre V6 models.

The design incorporates a simple rack and pinion design and eliminates the requirement for a conventional steering cylinder’s integration onto the front of the outboard to control the steering axis.

The streamlined new solution from Suzuki Marine not only removes a potential mechanical spoiler – issues with the third-party supplied steering cylinder; but the new internal solution provides outboard owners with more reliable steering, control, and operation.

The integrated steering system also provides a cleaner and more uncluttered appearance inside the motor well. And with the removal of the steering cylinder, there’s no impacting the well or transom when tilting the outboard.

The booming DF300BMD and 350AMD outboard motors, which both feature Suzuki’s dual-propeller technology, are compatible with hydraulic or hybrid electronic/hydraulic steering systems.

Meanwhile, the technical advancements continue with all DF300B, DF325A and DF350A outboard models to feature a newly designed gearcase as standard from late 2022.

The updated gearcase has a smaller frontal projected area, reducing drag and increasing efficiency which helps to increase average top speed by two percent.

The redesign also has added an oil circulation mechanism that lowers gear oil temperature, leading to increased durability. It also reduces the amount of gear oil required to fill the lower unit from 3.2 to 2.8 litres. The lower unit can also be retrofitted to previous models.

Finally, an in-water gear oil change feature now allows the motor to be tilted and the lubricant replaced using a new dedicated fitting*.

The DF300B and DF350A 4.4-litre V6 models are available to order now and are expected to arrive mid 2023. Customers are encouraged to contact their local authorised Suzuki Marine dealer for more information.

To learn more visit www.suzukimarine.com.au

SURF COAST MARINE

50-56 Brisbane Road, Labrador Ph: (07) 5563 7733

GOLD COAST SUZUKI MARINE

Gold Coast City Marina, Coomera Ph: (07) 5665 9566

AUSTRALIAN MARINE CENTRE

3491 Pacific Hwy, Springwood Ph: (07) 3808 7333

BAYSIDE SUZUKI MARINE

3 / 55 Shore Street W, Cleveland Ph: (07) 3488 2019

WHITE IS THE NEW BLACK

The ultimate tender set-up demands the Ultimate Outboard Motor.

Suzuki portables are favoured for their outstanding performance, lightweight design, unparalleled reliability, and ease of maintenance. Available from 2.5hp to 30hp with the choice between Pearl Nebular Black and Super Cool White colour schemes in DF6A, 9.9B, 15A, 20A, 25A and 30A variants. Crafted to perfectly complement any bespoke yacht.

NEXT GENERAT ION BOWRIDER

Cobalt of Australia announces the arrival of the brand new R8 into Queensland in January ready for summer boating equipped with a powerful Volvo 380hp V8

There’s no better way to spend family time than on the water, and there’s no better family boat on the water than the Cobalt R8, the newest of the R Series. But what really makes the R8 stand out is the added size. We didn’t just make it longer… we totally rethought and redesigned every aspect of the R8 resulting in a deeper cockpit and more freeboard, a roomy, expansive interior, with both bow and cockpit larger both fore to aft, giving extra comfort for passengers and plenty of room for their things.

The R8 also continues the Cobalt tradition of innovation, including the patent-pending E-Step – an optional electric version of the very popular swim step, which lowers, at the touch of a button, well below the water’s surface for easy entry or exit. Either swim step version, manual or electric, functions as the perfect launching pad for water sports activity, or just a great place to hang out and chill.

The R8 dash and instrumentation glass cockpit is fitted with dual Garmin multifunction displays, gloss black dash console, dash storage pocket with leather and stainless steeling wheel, dual 12volt outlets, illuminated switch panel and an R8 Entertainment System including iPod/USB/ MP3 Port, stereo sound system with remote bluetooth and 6 speakers. All this running off

a dual battery system with electronic circuit breaker protection.

The seating is impressive with an aft facing rumble seat, passenger seat flip backrest system, sundeck convertible lounger, removable carpets, and a Del Mar helm captain’s chair. There is also a head with a porta potti.

The Kevlar reinforced hull which has graphics moulded-in gelcoat and stainless steel engine vents, boasts an integrated anchor locker, bow scuff plate, 4 fender clips, midship cleats, model designator led lite in transom and a ski pylon flip-down swim step in the swim platform.

These features and many more make the R8 truly THE next generation bowrider!

Performance, luxury, comfort, innovation and room for more of everything...step up to the next generation R8…a little something for everyone. Only from Cobalt www.cobaltaustralia.com.au

S upercharge Batteries knows the importance of reliable power on the sea. Amptech Lithium Deep Cycle Batteries give the highest energy density and electrode potential difference offering the most extraordinary kilowatt-hour capacity per unit weight. Our technology is proven to provide superior performance compared to lead-acid battery technology.

MANUFACTURED AND TESTED IN CERTIFIED FACILITIES

With complete complian ce with product safety and quality certifications, Amptech Lithium’s premium design is perfect for marine applications. All batteries are 100% cycle tested before packing, so you can be assured of the high quality of any Amptech Lithium battery in the market.

RELIABLE AND DURABLE STRUCTURE

The internal structure of Amptech Lithium has a refined cell holder design. It ensures optimum cell spacing to avoid any short-circuit risk caused by vibration or impact and to improve heat dissipation. The IP65-rated container prevents the ingress of particles or liquid into the battery for increased protection.

ADVANCE BATTERY MANAGEMENT SYSTEM

Amptech Lithium has a built-in high-quality BMS with a dedicated active cell balancing feature. Enhanced circuit board protection prevents the battery from overcharging, over-discharging, short circuits, and cell imbalance. You can opt-in for a model with Bluetooth 5.1 technology allowing instant access to the battery status (state of charge-SOC, voltage, cycles, temperature, and complete log of battery activities). The real-time information the wireless BMS provides allows you to maximise the use and care of your Amptech Lithium battery.

An Amptech Lithium Deep Cycle Battery is a perfect companion to your trusted Sea Master Marine Starting Battery and other deep cycle applications. www.supercharge.com.au/find-a-dealer

AXOPAR

100% ELECTRIFYING ADVENTURES

Axopar Boats together with the Norwegian highperformance electric motors system company Evoy, have released an early-stage prototype that explores functional e-mobility for the future.

The project was initiated as a way for the companies to evolve in tandem with future solutions. The prototype marries the ultra-efficient and versatile Axopar 25 with the eco-friendliness of electric outboard propulsion.

“Axopar is excited to join forces with innovators that challenge the ‘status quo’ of the industry. Our partnership with Evoy is a perfect example of two great companies, on a joint mission, to expand the boating community and offer new ways of mobility for the future.” says Jan-Erik Viitala, Founding Partner, Axopar.

“We see electrification as a future complement to the industry where Axopar is at the forefront of innovation. We want to be part of evaluating future trends and technologies whatever they might be,” Viitala continues.

Axopar sees that there is a demand for smaller boats with a reasonable range that are electrified and can be utilized throughout the world. This is especially important in Australia as infrastructure for electric propulsion grows.

Axopar’s first step into the electric boat market offers all the comfort of a renowned Axopar 25, including overnight capabilities, toilet, sink, fridge, sunbeds, shower/storage, weather protection with the T-top roof, and canopies.

Both the Axopar 22 and 25 were developed with e-mobility in mind and are optimal for electrification due to the models’ efficiency, weight, balance, and modular construction.

Axopar is expecting a range of around 25 nm/charge achieved at cruising speeds between 22-30 knots with the most comfortable ride at around 20-25 knots.

Another feature that sets the Axopar 25 electric prototype apart is its impressive hull efficiency. Axopar hulls have improved with each generation, resulting in higher speed and more extended range with less engine power. Combining this efficiency with an innovative electric engine showcases Axopar’s dedication towards creating the most comfortable drive even when presented with challenging conditions.

The prototype’s new EVOY engine – the world’s first 300hp outboard electrical engine – proves that high speeds and electrification can go hand in hand. With low consumption, impressive torque, and range, the engine is perfect for boat owners keen to go green and get every inch of speed out of their boats.

The 800-Volt outboard motor runs on current supplied by 2 x 63 kWh Kreisel batteries, enabling the prototype to reach a top speed of 50 knots or cover an impressive 25 nautical miles at 25 knots. But that’s not all. The ground-breaking batteries can be charged in about one hour.

Axopar will continue to further develop and refine its models for the future fleet. Once the Axopar e-boats are ready for market launch, approximately 8-12 months from now, they will have been further developed and optimized for electric propulsion. This is in order to provide the best experience and efficiency, once the technology is thoroughly tested and proven.

“Until now, our boats’ unique features such as easy handling, multifunctionality and competitive prices have attracted experienced and new owners alike. The prototype for an electric day cruiser will interest and attract a new kind of customer and bring more people out on the water,” says Jan-Erik Viitala.

For now, Axopar’s prototype represents a great leap forward for the company and the boating industry. The prototype is Axopar's testament to adaptability, resourcefulness, and passion for innovation. Axopar is committed to its ongoing effort to innovate and to electrify the boat segment in collaboration with industry leaders like EVOY.

“Knowing that Axopar, currently the world’s fastestgrowing day boat brand, is embracing the electric revolution proves that electric boating is here to stay. Eyachts is already ahead of the curve having both RAND Luxury Electric Dayboats and Greenline Hybrid Cruisers in our portfolio for Australia and New Zealand and we’re working with SeaVolt to help the super-charging marine network grow at a rapid pace. Sustainable and Electric boating will be the most disruptive change to hit the marine industry in decades so we’re excited and ready for it”, says Ross, Eyachts General Manager.

For more information on the Axopar Boats, go to www.eyachts.com.au or contact boats@eyachts.com.au

IT’S GOT SOME STING! MERCURY MARINE PRO XS

Dean Silvester has spent the past two years relying on the Mercury Marine Pro XS to help him traverse the seas looking for his next bite.

The video creator and social media influencer spends a lot of his time a long way off shore, averaging 180 kilometres on his round trips off the Queensland coast on the hunt for Red Emperors and Nannygai. So it’s no surprise that performance and torque were top of his list when considering the engine for his Sea Fox 200 Viper.

“The torque on that thing is amazing. If you're not holding on, you’ll very quickly be doing 60kms/hr and you’ll fall over. For me, torque is really important. I do a lot of driving crossing bars and dealing with waves and big swell offshore, so I need it to be very grippy and very powerful when required,” Dean said.

Dean has even given the ProXS the nickname the ‘Redback Spider’ because in his words, “it will sting you if you’re not paying attention!”

Combined with the exceptional performance of the ProXS the engine is also surprisingly fuel efficient which is another important factor for Dean.

“The Pro XS is more fuel efficient than any comparable engine I’ve researched. On a rough day on the way out I'm probably doing 1.7 kilometres per litre, and with the wind up my bum on the way home I get between 2.4 to 2.7. That's what’s most important to me with that boat because the boat only has a 180-litre fuel tank, so I need fuel efficiency. I have three 20 litre jerrycans on my boat and I once did a 580km round trip in that thing. Most people’s boats for offshore might have a 300 or 400 litre tank, so with 240-litres I was able to travel that far,” he said.

But don’t think for one minute that efficiency comes at the cost of power. The 175 HP Mercury Pro XS is lightweight and compact while being packed with incredible power.

“For me, its propped for fuel efficiency rather than speed, yet I am much faster than most boats with similar sized motors from a different brand,” Dean said.

Powered by a V6 engine, Pro XS offers lightning-quick acceleration, blistering top speed and legendary reliability. The engine continues to be the power unit of choice for competitive anglers, with Mercury outboards having won more bass fishing tournaments than all other brands combined.

As for Dean’s next adventure, he is set to move south to Gladstone to take advantage of the winds. “Any wind breaks within an eight hour distance of that area we will be heading towards. he said. Seventeen Seventy is 50 minutes away, Yeppoon is only an hour and a half away, Airlie is six hours away – all of which are within easy reach thanks to the Pro XS," he said.

More information is available by contacting (07) 3808-7333 sales@amcboats.com.au

Mercury Marine - Avator™ electric outboard

Mercury Marine, has announced its Avator™ electric outboard concept, representing Mercury’s next step in marine innovation, advanced technology, and engineering.

Avator creates a new boating experience for Mercury’s global customers combining an investment in electrification with more than 80 years of expertise in the marine industry. Leveraging Mercury's leadership and reputation for hydrodynamics, corrosion resistance, reliability, and industrial design, the Avator concept will deliver a superior user experience for a wide range of vessels and activities.

“We are excited to formally announce this bold new phase of our vision for the future that only Mercury Marine can deliver,” said Chris Drees, Mercury Marine president. “Electrification is strategically important to us, and this concept provides a first look at how we intend to deliver on our commitment to being the industry leader in both internal combustion products and electric propulsion. We are taking efficiency to a new level, opening up new ways to enjoy the boating experience.”

Avator advances Mercury’s commitment to sustainability by offering the prospect of boating with zero direct emissions. Mercury is also using electrification to make boating more accessible with features such as swappable batteries and enhanced portability.

“Mercury has the industry’s strongest and most robust technology and design teams who are shaping a new power for marine that expands the brand into new applications,” said Tim Reid, Mercury Marine vice president of product development & engineering. “We believe features like easily changeable batteries and quiet operation hold great appeal for current and prospective boaters. We expect our breadth of electric offerings to expand over time, and we will continue to listen to consumer feedback and monitor adoption trends.”

“Our team is taking everything we know about how consumers use our products and incorporating it into Avator, creating an electric propulsion system that will set a new benchmark for the marine industry,” said Drees.

Learn more about the Mercury Avator concept and our vision for electrification at MercuryMarine.com/Avator.

THE EVOLUTION OF THE

BIKINI

By Tanya Rabe

I n early 2022, Gold Coasters farewelled the spirited woman who introduced to Australians, one of fashion’s most iconic and controversial swimwear designs: the bikini.

Paula Stafford was born in 1920 and having studied maths, chemistry, and physics at Melbourne Girls Grammar with a dream to become an architect, she was advised by the headmistress to choose a ‘more feminine career’. It was then that Paula applied her creative flair to fashion design.

Stafford and her husband moved to the Gold Coast after marrying in 1943. At that time, the fledgling fashion designer began cutting her swimsuits in half to wear on Surfers Paradise Beach where the couple were running their family business. To Stafford’s surprise, her new two-piece caught the attention of other women who approached her with a request to purchase.

The Stafford bikini rose to prominence over the next couple of decades, but not without controversy. In 1952, a woman wearing a Stafford bikini drew a great deal of attention when she was barred from a beach for being immodest. In response, Stafford sent five women wearing her design back to the same beach in what became an unintended yet prosperous PR coup for her brand.

To locals and tourists alike, we are drawn to the Gold Coast for its year-round summery vibe and beach culture. Surfing, SUPing, boating, kayaking, swimming and sunbathing are synonymous with our Gold Coast lifestyle, and we dress accordingly. The bikini has been the summer uniform of choice for many Gold Coast women, and at times the occasional bloke as well.

It wasn’t until the 1980s that it was revealed our well-oiled, sun worshiping, bikini clad bodies were starting to suffer from overexposure to UV radiation from the sun. Skin cancer was rising and for those of us who can remember, the SlipSlop-Slap campaign was developed to increase the awareness of skin cancer and melanoma and how we could prevent this insidious disease.

Australia has the highest melanoma rates in the world, with Queensland taking the title as the "Skin Cancer Capital of the World". A whopping

95% of melanomas are caused by overexposure to UV radiation from the sun. The Cancer Council estimates 16,800 Australians will be diagnosed with melanoma by the end of this year.

This data was enough for local swimwear designer, Ally Delaney to rethink swimwear design for herself and her beach loving Sisterhood. Her brand Wet Leopard has a purpose to make sunconscious swimwear, glamorous and functional for women. Her extensive research and development coupled with innovative design have transformed the traditional bikini for sun smart, sexy women around the world.

The swimwear range is made from UPF50+ sun protection fabric with inbuilt bust support using patented underwire technology. Wet Leopard swimwear are tailored with French seams in a corset-like design giving women of all shapes and sizes a feminine, flattering look. Most sun protective swimwear have basic elastic shelf bras, offering no real support. Ally says, ‘They’re uncomfortable and squash the bust all together to give an unflattering mono-boob.’

Gone are the days of sunbaking and alongside them, we say au revoir to ugly rash guards and box-cut one-pieces. Wet Leopard have revolutionised the swimwear market where women can feel fully supported running along the beach or going for a surf in a sexy range of beautiful, sustainable fabrics. ‘Our swimwear is ethically made in Australia, designed to last for as long as possible, not just one or two summers like some swimwear’, explains Ally passionately.

We have grown a lot since Paula Stafford introduced her bikini. We now understand the importance of a sun smart approach to the way we dress for the beach to protect ourselves from cancer and we have discovered the detrimental impact the fashion industry has on our planet. This is an industry responsible for being one of the largest polluters in the world and the second greatest polluter of local freshwater.

Ally wanted to make swimwear to promote a positive change in sun protection, but she was adamant Wet Leopard would only do this by being environmentally friendly.

‘All our swimwear is made from recycled plastic bottles. Our black one-piece swimsuits are made from REPREVE®, an eco-friendly green fibre made from the recycling of discarded single use plastic bottles that were destined for landfill or ocean bound.’ Using recycled instead of virgin polyester produces fewer carbon emissions and gives plastic bottles a second life.

Perfect for boating, paddle boarding, surfing, kite surfing, swimming, Ally, a water baby herself, has tested her range and stands by her creations. Acknowledging the wonderful woman, Paula Stafford, for her courage to empower women’s personal choice in swimwear, Ally is leading the next generation of designers doing the same thing as her predecessor, just in a different way. See the website for the full range of Wet Leopard swimwear https://www.wetleopard.com/

LEIGH-SMITH YACHTS

Superyacht Sales

2018 PRESIDENT 115 SUPERYACHT

KAYCEE boasts volume, style, sophistication, and pedigree. A design brief was implemented for reliable, efficient long range cruising. The demands of a large family or dual owners are exceeded as KAYCEE boasts two equally impressive master cabins. One on the upper helm deck with its own aft deck enclosed and air-conditioned acting as a luxury private retreat, close to the ship's bridge making it easy to monitor voyage progress in absolute comfort. A full beam master is below deck with walk in robe and bathroom with a full size bath. This master cabin is what one would expect of a vessel in this category. The VIP guest cabin is located forward and the guest twin cabins are configured with a queen bed in one and two singles in the other. KAYCEE has an elegant interior that was designed around an elevator that travels up and down all three levels from the full beam master cabin through the saloon to the top cabin located behind the bridge. Entertaining is a breeze with a large open saloon featuring a functional cocktail bar opening out onto the expansive relaxed enclosed aft deck.

The yacht is purposeful in design with easy access to water activities via a multipurpose hydraulic submersible swim platform and large tender garage that easily turns into a beach club arrangement. Powered by twin Caterpillar C18 Acert 1050hp diesel engines KAYCEE is capable of a top speed of 17 knots, and comfortably cruises at 9 - 10 Knots burning 78 LPH. Kaycee has a significant cruising range diesel capacity of 20,818 Litres and 2,650 litres of fresh water. If you are in the market for a large volume near new Superyacht with timeless styling and an interior ready for a personal touch to be added then you need to view KAYCEE

2009 MONTE FINO 122 SUPERYACHT

MASTEKA 2 has just completed her 10 year survey with Bureau Veritas in July 2020. There is an opportunity for a new owner to benefit from her recent significant survey work and extended certificates of compliance. She has completed a full rebuild of the generators which are back to zero hours & a top-end overhaul of the main engines to manufacturers specifications. The Ed Dubois designed yacht is in impressive condition. MASTEKA 2 is in commercial survey to accommodate 110 guests onboard for events (1D) and 12 guests internationally (under 2A). She has proven to be a successful charter yacht in Australia and the South Pacific and presents as a highly certified commercial vessel.

The 122ft / 37.1m MASTEKA 2 has been constructed with a grp hull and is powered by 2x 1675hp Caterpillar C32s with a cruising speed of 10 knots and a top speed of 12 knots. MASTEKA 2 has been designed to comfortably accommodate up to 12 charter guests in 5 suites. The guest cabins comprise a primary suite with a king size bed and en-suite bathroom facilities located on the main deck, 2 cabins with a double bed and en-suite bathroom facilities and 2 cabins with a twin bed and a pullman bed and ensuite bathroom facilities. The crew have their own separate crew quarters located below the aft deck allowing guests to enjoy increased levels of privacy.

Recently undergoing a multimillion-dollar refit including full paintwork, the 2009 122' Monte Fino MASTEKA 2 is an elegant superyacht with classic lines. Nominated for Superyacht of the year in the 30-40m category 2009, her Ed Dubois styling shines in every aspect of her yacht design. MASTEKA 2's expansive deck space, sleek appearance, and generous layout create a sophisticated and functional yacht. Currently, with her second owner, the 2009 Monte Fino superyacht MASTEKA 2 is an established product on the Australian and International charter market

The 2009 Monte Fino motor yacht MASTEKA 2 is available for immediate delivery, Contact Ryan Leigh-Smith 0408 758 886 to arrange an inspection

President 115 Tri-Deck Superyacht (35.05 m), Semi-Custom built for the first owner in 2018 to exacting standards under the Lloyds A1 offshore certification. (Extensive maintenance recently carried out.)

MELFI DESIGNS

AWARD WINNING UPHOLSTERY & HELM CHAIRS

By Tanya Rabe

40 years

(Michelangelo) Melfi is highly regarded in the marine, commercial, film and television industries for offering a diverse range of custom upholstery manufacturing. Everything from interiors, lounges and helm chairs are sold within Australia and exported to Canada, New Zealand and the United States. During these four decades and with a lot of devotion, Michel has built a reputation based on offering the highest quality craftsmanship.

Some might say that Michel is at the pinnacle of his career but I’m sure he would disagree. Here we have a man, a true creative with an insatiable curiosity who loves to pull things apart to understand how they work and then put them back together in a new and improved way. His inquisitive nature means there are always new discoveries which in turn means the way he does things is always evolving. ‘I am constantly researching and growing ideas,’says Michel. To research a problem for one customer can often refine a whole process.

Melfi Designs are a dedicated team of five, which are more like extended family, each with their own special niche. Forget production line in this business. No two products are ever the same. Everything is customized to suit the customer. Whether you are ordering a brand new custom made helm chair or restoring a 100-yearold chaise, your project receives complete attention from beginning to end. ‘It’s much more than throwing some foam cushions together,’ jokes Michel.

His passion is undisguisable as he handles a piece of leather and talks about its origin and the process it will undergo onsite before he molds it into a stylish custom-made piece. The attention to detail is beyond expectations from the perfect stitching and embroidery to the inner mechanisms of the product –the combination of foam, springs and runners. Michel is not just creating custom chairs, he is creating a quality of life for his buyer.

Remembering back to when he started out, Michel tells the story of his 16-year-old self living in Abbotsford, Sydney above an upholstery shop. Enticed by the idea of making some extra cash, Michel would make buttons

premium outdoor beanbags and pool floats

for the upholsterer. It wasn’t long before he actually fell in love with the art. ‘I was intrigued that you can take certain materials and create something special.’

Michel has advanced from button maker to upholsterer on 18 films and television shows, his latest gig being Baz Luhrmann’s blockbuster, ELVIS. Michel’s work also features in other famous movies including THOR, Pirates of the Caribbean and Aqua Man.

Michel is proud to acknowledge being the recipient of the Best Marine Upholstery Manufacturing Award Queensland in 2021 and 2022. He says it’s not so much about the award but more about being recognised for the hard work you do.

Despite his success, Michel is a humble gentleman who would love to see more young people involved in the art of upholstery. The demand for high quality custom made products is there, as not everyone wants mass produced items. For someone with a creative, inquisitive mind and willing to work hard, the world is their oyster in this game.

www.mmelfidesigns.com

Products featured: Malibu, Costa Pool, Amalfi and Copacabana Chair & Ottoman

W ith

upholstery experience, Michel

A TIMBER PASSION Ross Muir

By Narayan Pattison

M any Brisbane boaties will know Ross Muir from his work managing Muir Marine in Manly for 30+ years. A local S.E.Queensland boating legend, Ross has tirelessly handcrafted two timber dinghies, paying homage to his family’s classic yachts from the 1900s.

The Muir contribution to boating is huge, stretching well beyond Ross’ time in Manly, to his father Jock’s boat building business in Hobart’s Battery Point in the mid-1900s.

It was at the family boat yard that Ross began his own apprenticeship in the early 1960s. Ross developed his boat-making skills, while his father was building Balandra for the Admiral’s Cup team in 1967. Not long after, his father built Trevassa, which he finished in 1971. The former owner later sold Trevassa to the Muir family in 2012. Ross, along with his brothers John and Greg, painstakingly restored the yacht. In particular, Ross handcrafted a beautiful custom steering wheel and table, so it was fitting that Ross named his recent Huon Pine timber dinghy Trevassa Too

After finishing his apprenticeship with his father in the 1960s, Ross began running his own successful marine boat-building, rigging, and chandlery in Hobart. In 1987, Ross made the decision to move his family up to Manly, where he still lives today.

The Muir Marine business opened in 1988, after Ross took over a local chandlery shop. True to his Tasmanian roots, Ross has kept the business focused on boat rigging and chandlery, and has kept the shop open seven days a week, with the help of his son, Jason. Now, 50 years on, the Manly harbour is absolutely filled with boats. It is the biggest boat harbour on the east coast, and the second biggest in the country.

To successfully build the two classic dinghies Ross split his time between his Manly workshop, where the accessories were made, and Hobart, where he did all the hard yakka on the boat hulls.

Both of the timber dinghies are tributes to the work of Ross’ family and friends. The first dinghy built was the 10-foot Trevassa Too, crafted out of Tasmanian Blackwood and Huon Pine. The second dinghy, Kittywake IV, is based on the 1921 cadet clinker dinghy design. The cadet dinghies later moved to fibreglass, so this is the first timber cadet to be built in about 40 years.

As one can imagine, the building process for these dinghies was extremely labour intensive. Ross put about six months of labour into each one. Two-thirds of that time was spent constructing and varnishing the hull and trolley in Hobart. In his Manly workshop, Ross

handcrafted all the remaining accessories, including the spars, oars, bowsprits, paddles, bailers and rudders. Timber boats have always been his passion, and building these dinghies lets Ross revive the family traditions he learnt as an apprentice back in the 1960s.

The two dinghies are proof that Ross clearly loves Australian timber. Huon Pine is beautiful to sand, and to work with, it is some of the best timber in the world. Growing only on the west coast of Tasmania, it has a lot of oil in it and is very much like teak. Trevassa To o is all planked and ribbed in Huon Pine, including the trims on the accessories. Kittywake IV has a combination of Huon Pine and Australian Red Cedar, which has been used since the early days because it is light and strong.

Timber boats certainly are not for everyone because the costs and maintenance involved can be extreme. However, for people like Ross Muir, who love timber and the history of boating, nothing beats classic wood.

Ross has built Kittiwake IV. A 12-foot cadet dinghy built of Australian Red Cedar and Huon Pine

Ross Muir showing Kittiwake IV at 2019 Wooden Boat Festival in Hobart

Ross named his recent Huon Pine timber dinghy Trevassa Too

Ross, along with his brothers John and Greg, painstakingly restored Trevassa, originally built by their father.

Meet Ross Muir at the 2023 Wooden Boat Festival Hobart 10th - 13th February

PONTOON FENDERS

Des igned to protect your most important asset and make your boatin g easier. Our Aussie Fenders are manufactured in Aust r alia from only the best available materials to enhance durability, protecting your boat from unsightly rub marks. Ma n ufactured in our state-of-the-art manufacturing facility by highly experienced sewing machinists and installation staff. Aus sie Fenders will enhance the appearance and functionality of your pontoon, jetty or marina berth.

YAMAHA HELM MASTER EX NOW GUIDING MARINE RESCUE

Yamaha has once again taken marine technology to the next level with the release of the game changing Helm Master® EX boat control system.

In a marine-industry first, Yamaha has developed a joystick and integrated control system that can now be paired with a single outboard engine - in addition to twin, triple and quad set-ups - giving Australian boat owners unprecedented control over their craft and access to the most advanced boating and fishing technologies on the market.

Helm Master® EX is more than just a joystick, it is a complete integrated boat control system that makes getting to your fishing spot easier and allows the skipper to hold to a chosen fishing location at the touch of a button.

There are four levels of Helm Master® EX.

Level one of Helm Master® EX incorporates the completely new, upgraded digital electronic control and CL5 touchscreen display. There is also the option of an all-new slimline electronic key switch panel with keyless remote.

The second level sees the addition of Yamaha’s all-new plug-and-play, bolt-on digital electric steering. This system takes marine steering to the next level, with extreme smoothness, precision and customisable steering feel. It uses minimum battery capacity as it only draws power when in use. This all-in-one, pure electric steering, eliminates the need for hydraulic pumps, valves and hoses - removing weight and allowing a tidy bilge and transom area.

Level three introduces the all-new Yamaha Autopilot, which comes with built-in single touch functions that makes navigating and getting to your destination easier and quicker. A highlight of this system is Track Point, which when paired with a compatible multi-function display, allows the vessel to pilot automatically along a set of waypoints and decelerate on arrival at the final destination.

Finally, premium level includes the full manoeuvrability joystick control. This stylish and ergonomic controller provides simultaneous control over shift, throttle and steering, in one easy-to-use joystick, which can be used for low speed manoeuvring or in conjunction with many of the built-in Helm Master® EX functions.

The successful applications for Yamaha's Helm Master® EX boat control system continues to expand. It is now further improving on-water safety and providing peace of mind for Brisbane’s recreational boaters.

The team from Brisbane Marine Rescue recently took delivery of its new, Brisbane built Woody Marine rescue boat fitted with the full Helm Master® EX system, controlling a pair of Yamaha 300hp outboard engines.

Brisbane VMR’s president, Thomas Grice said joystick control provided by Yamaha's Helm Master® system provides excellent assistance with rescue operations. "It's especially helpful when dealing with the boating public out on the water," he said. "Conditions can get rough out on the bay, but the Helm Master® system allows us to pull up alongside another vessel and sit steady while we chat with the occupants and coordinate a rescue - if that's what is required."

Thomas also revealed that the system comes in handy when they are towing stranded vessels home, with the navigation system that's integrated into Helm Master® allowing them to set a course with a comfortable and steady speed.

Familiarising themselves with the new boat and the Helm Master® EX system at a recent training day, the volunteer crew from Brisbane Marine Rescue were amazed at how much easier and safer Yamaha's advancements in navigation technology had made the sometimes-dangerous tasks they undertake.

"Even after this short time using the system, we can already see the benefits," said Thomas. "When you're under pressure in not-ideal weather conditions, we now know we can rely on the boat as well as the Yamaha motors and Helm Master® system to hold us in position while we do what we need to do. It's going to be a real game-changer for us."

Stuart Smith, Commercial Development Manager for Yamaha Motor Australia was on hand to watch the volunteers from Brisbane Marine Rescue putting the new boat through its paces. He said it was great to see the Helm Master® EX system moving from a recreational application, into on-water emergency services such as policing and rescue work. "We need these guys when we are at our most vulnerable," he said. "They need to be sure that the product they use is reliable and durable, and with Yamaha and Helm Master® EX that's what they have got." www.yamaha-motor.com.au

OWNER

GEIST the 111-foot sloop

The sailing yacht GEIST, a 111-foot sloop from the Spirit shipyard in the UK, has now been launched. Looking at the vessel for the first time, it is difficult to discern whether it is indeed a seaworthy yacht or more so a work of art. The owner who commissioned the build, however, wasn’t seeking to pay homage to the tradition of classic wooden tall ships; GEIST was about shifting standards and generating inspiration for more sustainable actions in yacht building practices. We spoke with the German owner, and Pantaenius customer, about the meaning and spirit of sailing.

THIS MIGHT SEEM OBVIOUS TO SOME, BUT WE'D STILL LIKE TO HEAR THE ANSWER FROM YOU. WHY DO YOU SAIL?

Sailing is so natural to me that I do not really know the answer to that. It is part of my life and was already part of the life of my father, who was very successful sailing dragon boats. The passion has been laid in my cradle, so to speak. I have never not sailed. This has had a lasting effect on me and makes me constantly seek closeness to water and the elements.

GEIST IS THE LARGEST WOODEN YACHT CONSTRUCTED IN THE UK SINCE THE J-CLASS SHAMROCK V WAS BUILT. WHAT MADE YOU DECIDE TO GO WITH WOOD FOR SUCH A LARGE PROJECT?

The point was to demonstrate what is possible. Of course, it would be even more sustainable not to build a ship at all, but I am convinced that it is only by continuously challenging

established standards that we can bring real innovation to the fore and allow ourselves to live the way we want to, while remaining sustainable. The yacht industry is booming, so why not deliver a vision that shows it can be done differently: that it is possible to build a light, fast, dynamic and elegant vessel that at the same time meets the most modern standards in terms of energy efficiency. Wood has emerged as the perfect material in this regard because it is extremely flexible, noble and versatile, but unlike many other materials, it can be obtained and recycled in a very controlled manner.

ONE OF THE LEADING YACHTING MAGAZINES HAS REPORTED THAT THE YACHT IS ONE OF THE MOST EXTRAORDINARY EVER BUILT. WHAT MAKES GEIST A STANDOUT YACHT FOR YOU?

Actually, the yacht follows very familiar requirements in its basic layout. It is the perfect charter yacht booked by four friends with their partners, but implemented in a very generous space. It offers an excellent overview on deck and always lets you feel the proximity to the water despite her size. For me, the most important thing was that GEIST met these requirements. At some point I realized that sailing together with friends only works if there is enough space on board, because by now everyone has created their own little family. So the path from my 52-foot Spirit to 111-foot GEIST was, in part, also quite pragmatic. Her elegance, of course, is also a unique quality

for me. The shipyard meticulously responded to every one of my wishes and contributed a number of innovative ideas themselves. The interior design is exceptional and there were almost no limits placed on me by the designers during the planning. This is another aspect recognized by people who are passing by. GEIST has the charm of a wonderful vintage car and at the same time something ultra-modern.

FROM THE BEGINNING, YOU HAD A CLEAR VISION OF WHAT GEIST WAS SUPPOSED TO ACHIEVE IN TERMS OF SUSTAINABILITY. CAN YOU EXPLAIN THAT VISION?

I wanted to show that it does not have to be a compromise to design a luxury object like a yacht and at the same time measure up to the demands of our time. We cannot pretend we do not know about the impact we have on the planet through our consumerist behaviour. Yachting in particular, however, still seems pretty divided in this regard. In addition to using recycled and sustainably sourced materials as much as possible, the yacht should avoid fossil fuels whenever feasible and make the best use of available renewable energy. When we sail, we continuously generate power that is fed back into the batteries. The propulsion system regenerates the battery banks through the rotation of the propeller shaft while the yacht is under sail. For up to four days, the fully charged batteries allow us to use all the yacht's amenities, including air conditioning and hot water, without needing a generator or shore power. The two builtin

generators are actually only due to class conformity and serve as a backup in case of a real system failure. This ambition has made everyone involved go above and beyond and work very closely together. We have been able to reduce the consumption of oil in the hydraulic systems to a minimum, saving not only waste but also weight.

A benchmark that applies to almost every part on board. To be even more efficient, the hydraulics also allow the boat to operate in an eco-mode. Only in emergency situations or during regattas do we fully exploit the possibilities and work in a much faster, but less economical mode. Above all, I want to leave nature as I found it. That is why wastewater is passed through a treatment plant before it is discharged. I think everyone involved challenged each other. Yes, the sustainability aspect was my wish as a client but everyone shared my vision.

THE YACHT IS NOT DESIGNED TO ACCOMMODATE A LARGE CREW. HANDLING AND LAYOUT ARE DESIGNED FOR SHORTHANDED SAILING IN AN ALMOST UNCOMPROMISING WAY. DO YOU ALWAYS SAIL YOURSELF?

The goal was to be able to operate the ship alone with friends and family. I actually prefer to sail myself, but even GEIST cannot do without a professional crew. Maintenance alone

requires specialized personnel. However, even here, the technology on board is a great help, because troubleshooting is made possible remotely - thanks to a sophisticated cloudbased monitoring system, similar to that used in modern cars. At the end of the day, of course, the ship should be ready when you want to use it, and unfortunately, I do not spend nearly as much time on board as I would like.

THE WORD COMPROMISE LEADS US TO THE LAST QUESTION: WERE YOU REALLY ABLE TO REALISE EVERYTHING YOU ENVISIONED? MOREOVER, IF SO, WHAT IS THE CONSEQUENCE? ARE YOU EVEN MORE INSPIRED NOW AND ALREADY PLANNING THE NEXT PROJECT?

Of course, it was incredibly complicated. That is probably why many people are afraid of turning their yacht into a supposed million-dollar grave by using new, innovative technologies. However, it really worked better than you might imagine. I have the shipyard to thank for that, but also the project management. Now and then, there were points that were discussed controversially. How narrow can the boom be? Where can weight be saved? But, as I said before, I never had the feeling that there were different sides in these discussions. Everyone was working towards one goal. This worked so well that some of SY GEIST's ideas have been established as permanent components

of the Spirit program. Especially in the refit area, I think there will be a lot of electrification in the future. My next project is an all-electric and foiling tender in the style of the legendary Bystanders, with a range of 100 nautical miles. I am convinced that there is huge potential for more sustainable designs in yacht building, that are currently only being exploited in rare cases.

As one of the leading yacht insurance specialists, Pantaenius know that every cruising area and every customer has their own individual requirements. Whether motor or sailing yacht, Pantaenius offer Australia’s most comprehensive insurance cover.

www.pantaenius.com.au

As one of the leading yacht insurance specialists, we know that every cruising area and every customer has their own individual requirements. Whether motor or sailing yacht, we offer Australia’s most comprehensive insurance cover.

Photos by spirityachts.com

MOON DANCING

WITH THE BRIGHTS

“Even though most of my working life has been in recruitment, many years ago I managed a large d’Albora marina, Pier 35 in Melbourne, for two years and I am qualified in marina management, so it’s returning to something I know how to do well, but on a more relaxed scale up here,” Tony said.

The decision to live aboard is a lifestyle change the couple adore, and even their 10-year-old golden retriever, Nellie, is coping with it well.

BUYING MOONDANCE

Part of the reason they could make the move was Tony’s love for scrolling through boat-for-sale websites, which is where he came across their Van De Stadt, Moondance, three years ago.

racing, and won her division in a recent Moreton Bay Boat Club Sunday eight-race series, and the overall club championship for 2022.

THE KEY TO RACING TOGETHER

For some couples, racing together can cause added stress, with competitive skippers snapping out orders under pressure, without thinking of their crew’s feelings.

Tony, an ex-semi-professional surfer and long-time yacht racer, acknowledges he used to fall into that trap, albeit mildly, because he is so competitive and a compulsive sail trim “tweaker”, but he has worked hard to improve.

Karin agrees that he is more mellow than he used to be, and she credits the change, in part, to advice from an old salt.

CAROLINE STR AINIG catches up with a couple who have traded in the corporate world for a live-aboard lifestyle on their classic Van De Sta dt yacht.

Going for a social sail with Karin and Tony Bright provides a glimpse into a world many of us can only dream of, one where work and life aboard a yacht have merged, and sunrises and sunsets on the water are the norm.

The couple moved onto their Van De Stadt 34, Moondance, eighteen months ago and now live aboard full-time at the Moreton Bay Boat Club marina at Scarborough, just north of Brisbane.

When the couple made the decision to live on the water, Karin had already retired from real estate and Tony was working in corporate recruitment. However, he was lured back to the marina industry four months ago to manage the nearby Newport Marina.

Today the Brights have the best of both worlds. They are on or around the water almost 24/7, and the marina manager job is giving their retirement savings a welcome boost. It’s also something Tony really enjoys.

At the time, they were happy with their Holland 25 and weren’t even looking for a boat. However, the 34-foot Moondance sounded too good to be true and the couple couldn’t resist buying her.

“We kept thinking there must be something wrong with her at that price, but there wasn’t,” Tony recalls.

“The owner who built her in Geelong, and his wife, had been smashed with bad weather off Sydney, and the owner’s wife said she had had enough. He just wanted to sell her quickly and we happened to be in the right place at the right time.”

A MODERN CLASSIC

Built in 2002, Moondance is a composite hull and a best-of-both-worlds design, with the sheer and lovely lines of a classic Van De Stadt but built using modern materials. She is big enough to live aboard in comfort, with plenty of room for the couple and their lovely old dog.

Prior to their lifestyle change, they used to race Moondance in Saturday-afternoon social sailing but, when they moved on board full-time, with all their personal belongings, packing up “the house” every week to go sailing was not feasible, so they now restrict themselves to the occasional short series.

Weighing in at only four-and-a-half tonnes and with a three-quarter rig which is very easy to tune, plus a large

“He told us to be grateful that you have someone who wants to go sailing with you because if you aren’t nice to them, they won’t want to come. They are words that really resonated with us,” she said.

Today, sailing together is a pleasure and each appreciates the other, with Tony crediting Karin for having a special feel for the helm.

Often, they take along extra crew when racing but sometimes go out by themselves. When shorthanded, Karin tends to do more helming while Tony manages the sail trim and sail changes.

Photos by Caroline Strainig and Tony and Karin Bright.

Enjoying a social sail

One of the pluses of living aboard is being able to enjoy sunsets like this

Sailing in Deception Bay

THE NEWPORT MARINA

The Newport Marina is a private marina situated in a residential canal area of Newport, a few kilometres south of Scarborough.

Facilities include water, toilets and showers, a laundry, clotheslines and barbecue area.

Tony’s biggest tip regarding visiting a marina? “Don’t be afraid to ask for help, if you need it, when you are bringing a boat in, so someone is there to throw a line to,” he said. “It’s not worth risking it trying to be a hero.”

LOCAL ATTRACTIONS

When Tony is not working, he and Karin love taking Moondance out to experience the attractions of Moreton Bay. These include Bribie Island, Tangalooma, the Sandhills, and further south, Peel Island and Stradbroke.

One of Tony and Karin’s favourite outings is to Redcliffe on the eastern side of the Scarborough peninsula, where there are markets every Sunday and dozens of restaurants to choose from.

“You can even anchor there overnight if the wind is light with no easterly in it, although you can also tie up to the jetty for a few hours,” Tony said.

SAILING MORETON BAY

While idyllic at times, sailing Moreton Bay is not without its challenges. There are many shallows and in windagainst-tide conditions you can get some steep, sharp waves. Sometimes the forecast can also reflect what is happening at Redcliffe on the eastern side of the peninsula instead of the wider bay.

Tony’s advice is to go out and stand on the breakwater off Scarborough, and have a look, before venturing out.

“Yesterday for example, the forecast for Redcliffe was 12 knots, but out here it got up to 25-30 knots,” he said. “And even if going just up to Bribie, you can experience strong wind-against-tide conditions.

consistently really great, especially when you have those 15-knot nor’easters.”

THEIR HAPPY PLACE

For both, the on-water lifestyle is something they adore and wish they had more time to experience when younger. Long-term they would like to cruise the east coast and also explore the northern rivers of NSW. But that’s in the distant future. At the moment they are more than happy with their lives as they are.

“On the water is my happy place,” Karin said, when asked what she loved about sailing and living aboard. “It’s where you can breathe. You can take a deep breath and realise you have been holding your breath for such a long time. But you come out here and you drop your shoulders and you breathe.”

“It’s just a lovely thing for both of us to do,” Tony added. “Whether it’s a day like this with a light breeze or hammering along at seven knots in a 20-knot breeze, it’s amazing. And waking up to it every day is our world now. We are so very lucky.”

And a final tip for those who dream of following in their wake and giving up the 9-5 life for an on-water one?

“Get a nice mattress if you are living on a boat,” Tony said. “The money you spend is well worth it.”

Tony behind his desk at the Newport Marina

Racing out of Scarborough

Caroline Strainig, the author of this article, enjoying the helm on a social sail with the Brights

Their golden retriever is often along to share the fun

Fine-tuning sail trim is something Tony loves

Off to Tangalooma

® NSX™

NEXT GENERATION OF BOATING ELECTRONICS NEW SIMRAD

Simrad Yachting’s newest multifunction display (MFD) – Simrad® NSX – was publicly unveiled this week during a livestream event, offering the latest evolution in chartplotters and fishfinders for powerboaters as a new mid-range product in the Simrad® line. The Simrad® NSX is available in 7”, 9” and 12” display sizes and is based on a new Operating System built from the ground up to redefine boating experiences.

NSX features an innovative and modern interface with a new, intuitive touch screen experience with crystal clear views. Charts include powerful C-MAP® navigation capabilities and compatibility with sonar, radar and autopilot systems. Simple Setup Wizards guide users through each step during device setup, and Simrad® app integration makes connectivity from your smartphone easier than ever.

“The electronics for boating navigation have evolved so much over the decades, but with this particular product we’ve really focused on making boating adventures and navigation both easier and more accessible than ever,” said Mike Fargo, EVP of Simrad Yachting. “I love that about this product. With the NSX, our development team re-imagined and re-defined what a chartplotter and fishfinder can be for consumers, simplifying the experience from the moment you take NSX out of the box all the way to the furthest open water adventures.”

Packed with the full suite of Simrad® technology at your fingertips, NSX is designed to deliver

a wide eco-system allowing users to expand the MFD with additional functionality, easier integrations and support for a wide range of third-party applications. Boaters who love fishing can utilize NSX to view high-resolution images below and to the sides with Active Imaging™ and CHIRP sonar, SideScan/DownScan Imaging™ and FishReveal™ – or search even greater depths with a wide range of compatible transducers. Users can integrate easily with their radar and get the most out of their AutoPilot systems by connecting to Autorouting.

“For over 75 years, Simrad® has built a tradition of reliability, safety and innovation,” said Fargo.

“The NSX is designed towards adventurers of the water lifestyle… weekend cruising, family fishing, diving, watersports, getting to the sandbar and back – the NSX works great for all that. We’ve designed it to be simpler and easier to use and having the new OS as the platform to build on has been a big part of making it a more seamless experience for boaters.”

“Fundamentally, the ultimate experience is that it’s easier to obtain value for the boater, and easier to use the product,” said Jarred Clayton, Chief Technology Officer. “There’s 100 small things that the design team have improved upon based on customer feedback to make it a lot better. We absolutely have the world’s best charts on this product and that’s something we’re critically proud of.”

KEY FEATURES:

● A new, intuitive touchscreen experience with various display sizes and multiple screen configurations to suit the user’s needs.

● Brings navigation to life with support for the nextgeneration C-MAP DISCOVER™ X & REVEAL™ Xmarine-optimized charts.

● Full suite of Simrad® technology at the touch of a finger with networking and connectivity solutions including modem plug-in for additional connectivity to devices and an ethernet port for full networking capabilities in the future.

● Simple to set up & easy to manage with a Setup Wizard that walks users through the process to make it easier and faster including engine and tank setup, AutoPilot optimisation, radar dockside and on the water calibration, and much more.

● Extensive 3rd Party App Integration providing diversity in integration and ability to support multiple vendors.

● Fully editable and customizable with smart dragand-drop screen customization and fully editable instruments bar.

● High Resolution Bathymetry showing accurate contour lines down to a 1-foot level of detail with compatible charts.

● Enhanced day and night modes. Be ready to go in all weather and lighting conditions.

● Simrad’s fastest-ever Autorouting with improved planning and route plotting

● Hassle-free software updates & data transfer. Stay up-to-date with the Simrad® App.

For SIMRAD installation, contact: aseamarine.com.au

BASED IN MANLY QUEENSLAND AT ROYAL QLD YACHT SQUADRON

Manly Harbour is the southern hemisphere's largest marina which is home to many quality boats and magnificent yachts. The team at Yacht Sales Downunder will find buyers Australia-wide and through their offices in Singapore & Thailand.

ECO SAILING

Fountaine Pajot AURA 51

The Aura 51 is the first Fountaine Pajot model to be equipped with electric motors and an intelligent on-board energy management system in her Smart Electric® version. This new technology is the result of a collaborative work between the Fountaine Pajot teams and experts in energy transition, supported by the ODSea Lab innovation platform, created by Fountaine Pajot.

A FIRST DECISIVE STEP TOWARDS CARBONFREE BOATING WITH REAL RESULTS

By 2030 all the catamarans delivered by the group should be 100% electric. To achieve this goal, the Shipyard has created an innovation platform, OD Sea Lab, and before doing anything else, has carried out a 360° audit of its carbon footprint based on the independent GHG protocol (Greenhouse Gas Protocol).

“This is a brand-new experience for Fountaine Pajot Owners, a zero emissions experience, an experience marked by silence. This new ecoresponsible electric catamaran is the result of a collaborative effort by over 60 technicians, engineers and electrical experts who have spent more than a year actively working to develop a unique experience. For comfort under way, we’ve developed a tailor-made electronic solution to manage all energy flows. In addition, software allows the user to easily manage propulsion and optimise the use of renewable energies,” explains Romain Motteau, Deputy CEO of the Fountaine Pajot Group.

Mathieu

commented on these trials: “With our Smart Electric® concept, we’re going far beyond just solar panels, holding tanks and optimised consumption management. Our numerous test phases in navigation enabled us to test the behaviour of this new catamaran, which is both high-performance and innovative, but also to validate the objectives we had set ourselves, in terms of silence, range and the efficiency of our Smart Electric® system.”

“Aware of the urgency of preserving the planet, we are living through a great cultural change and the new generation expects much of us at the dawn of this new era and these realisations. Our owners are also changing their needs and today expect their boat to be more environmentally responsible, while maintaining a high level of demand in terms of comfort. As part of an external audit, it has been established that 20% of our carbon footprint comes from production and 80% from the use of the boats,” explains Romain.

This model differs from her 4,000 predecessors by the new technology she carries. The advances involve the two pods, one under each hull, that propel the boat at the same time as their hydrogenerator is producing electricity, in addition to the energy provided by the solar panels. The objective was not only to design a boat with an electric motor, but they also wanted to develop a new approach by designing a fully electric boat offering a new experience in life on board and the use of the boat.

T his ambitious project proves the capacity of the Fountaine Pajot group to move quickly towards the elimination of carbon from our cruising. The architecture of this system incorporates powerful and highly efficient electric motors tailor-made for the boats, they are equipped with fixed or folding propellers designed specifically to optimize performance. These motors are also designed to produce the maximum energy in a hydrogeneration mode under sail.

To allow complete management of energy on board, they have also developed tailor-made electronics to manage all the energy flows of the catamaran. Energy for propulsion, as well as energy for life on board in direct or alternating current. The system also manages the boat’s energy production, including solar panels, hydrogeneration and, if necessary, automatic production by the single generator. The system will use high-capacity lithium batteries for storage, allowing several hours of motoring and ensuring high levels of self-sufficiency when at anchor.

In addition, fully custom-developed software allows you to control the entire system. It integrates a new complementary interface to manage the propulsion, but also the consumption and production of energy in real time.

Further information can be obtained by contacting Multihull Solutions on 1300 855 338 or emailing info@multihullsolutions.com.au

Fountaine, also Deputy CEO as well as head of the ODSea Lab platform,

RIGID-HULL

APEX A13T

100 ft YACHT Sunseeker

MASTERPIECE AWARDED 'BEST EXTERIOR DESIGN'

The exceptional Sunseeker 100 Yacht made its Global debut in September at this year’s Cannes Yachting Festival.

Aggressively styled, with an unbroken window line that seems to separate the superstructure from the hull, the new 100 Yacht’s potent threedimensional aesthetic generates huge visual impact winning it the 'Best Exterior Design' award at World Yachts Trophies 2022, one of the most prestigious and internationally recognised awards in the yachting industry.

The all new, award winning 100 Yacht will revolutionise the Sunseeker Yacht range, earmarking the start of a new era in flybridge design and functionality for the British yard. With new entertainment features at the fore, the 100 Yacht offers great versatility with a truly global appeal. The sweeping flybridge, with complete walk-around access from bow to stern, is one of the exceptional entertainment areas that defines the 100 Yacht. The vast space on the flybridge is cleverly zoned to offer seamless entertainment. The foredeck has two separate seating arrangements with cinema screen capability, while the central flybridge has L-shaped seating, a fully equipped wet bar and space aft for freestanding furniture or a spa bath.

The 22-foot beam adds significant interior volume feeling much larger than a 100-footer, matched by interior features typically found in bespoke

SWEEPING FLYBRIDGE WITH WALK-AROUND ACCESS

superyachts. The full-beam master suite situated on the main deck benefits from floor to ceiling windows port and starboard as well as an exceptional glass atrium door forward, leading to an owner’s private bow terrace. For everyone else the lower deck provides a further four impeccably appointed, lavish, spacious ensuited staterooms. The crew have their own space in the bow with separate access to the galley and three comfortable ensuite cabins. Other key features include a raised pilothouse with a glass aft bulkhead that allows guests an uninterrupted view forward from the flybridge, and a ‘penthouse style’ saloon with floor to ceiling windows formal dining for eight, an impressive aft lounging area to port, plus an optional sliding door to starboard. And when you step out into the big aft cockpit, the recreational flexibility is equally well considered. While the floodable tender garage is large enough for a Williams 460 Sportjet, plus jetski and Seabobs, it can also be converted into a decadent Beach Club with built-in barbecue, rain shower and sunloungers, similar to the recently-launched Sunseeker 90 Ocean

Powered by MTU 12V 2000 M96X or MTU 16V 2000 M96L, the 100 Yacht reaches speeds of up to 29 knots and has a range of 1,300 nautical miles at a cruising speed of 12 knots.

Reflecting its enormous strength and design capability, the yacht has been awarded CE Category A/Ocean status.

The Sunseeker 100 Yacht is set to surprise and delight at every turn. Every element has been carefully considered in meticulous detail, exuding sophistication found in custom superyachts. Her elegant, powerful lines flow around sublime architecture. A secluded private terrace, sunbathing hideaways, seamless flybridge with foredeck access, beautifully proportioned open-plan interior and generous ‘Beach Club’ are just a few of her magnificent features. Its unique main deck, penthouse-style saloon and luxurious staterooms offer a newfound design direction and material selection providing elegant interiors to enchant any owner. The layering of textural elements and the mix of furnishings and fabrics feels timeless with a sophisticated aesthetic.

The Sunseeker team are now busy building multiple 100 Yacht orders for delivery in 2022 and beyond; it’s been a remarkable success. The order book is a reflection of the brand strength, the in-house creativity and the passion of all involved to deliver a spectacular new model.

To find out more about the Sunseeker 100ft yacht contact: info@sunseeker.com.au

PRINCIPAL CHARACTERISTICS

Length overall – 29.85 m / 97’11”

Beam – 6.90 m / 22’8”

Draft (full load) – 2.10 m / 6’10”

Displacement (half load) – 94,119 kg

Fuel capacity – 12,800 litres

Fresh water capacity – 1,800 litres

Accommodation – Up to 10 guests and 5 crew

Engine options – MTU up to 5,280 PS

Performance – Up to 29 knots

Range @ 12 knots – Up to 1,300 nautical miles

Sails

Racing sailors don’t need convincing of the need for sails that are well designed and constructed because they know that’s what’s needed for achieving perfect trim if they’re going to enjoy success on the race course. Well, maybe there’s another definition of performance that we need to think about when you’re in cruising mode, one that doesn’t just put speed at the top of the priority list. Good sails still matter, and here we’ll explore some of the factors that go into creating a great cruising sail that will deliver you more reliability, longevity and, yes, more speed too! All factors that add up to a more enjoyable sailing experience, whether you’re racing or cruising.

Less Heel, More Speed - Synthetic polyester (polyethylene terephthalate), known to most of us as Dacron, heralded in a new era of sail construction that enabled sails to hold their original shape for much longer. They distorted far less under load, didn’t shrink the first time they got wet and had a much longer life.

While Dacron is still perhaps the most popular cloth in use today, over the past decade the racing world has embraced the development of composite membrane sails for all its superior properties. Just as Dacron delivered tangible benefits over more traditional materials, so do composite membrane sails take things to an even higher level.

The first thing you notice when you replace a Dacron sail with a composite membrane sail is how the boat heels less when the gust hits. Because the sail is stiffer and holds its shape much more effectively, the heeling moment of the wind transfers more directly into forward drive. The wind’s energy is being translated more efficiently into speed through the water. While you may or may not be that bothered by the increase in speed, less heel, and a flatter deck is something that will appeal to everyone on board. It’s safer and more comfortable.

Lasts longer - After thousands of miles of cruising, a Dacron sail will have likely reached the end of its life or be on its last legs. It will have stretched and become so deep as to have become unusable, while the equivalent composite membrane sail will have suffered approximately only a quarter as much. Ultra-violet resistance to tropical sun is also high on these latest generation sails. When you consider the impressive longevity of these sails, the dollars-per-year cost of modern sail technology starts to look very attractive indeed. That’s before

you even factor in the performance benefits. And as we said earlier, when it comes to cruising we don’t just define performance by speed.

Four Factors that matter - There are four key areas for the cruising sailor to consider when identifying a good sail versus a bad sail:

1. Fit (2D geometry) - The starting place for the sail design project is to fill up the space available on the spars as much as possible. In the cruising world, it can be common to see ill-fitting sails – not reaching the top of the mast, headsail shy of filling the available space, and so on. You get the 2D geometry right and then put the three-dimensional shape onto the rig, and the 3D geometry changes the way the sail fills the space.

2. Form (3D Flying Shape) - The biggest driver of good performance versus bad performance is the aerodynamic (flying) shape of a sail that is built into the material with shaped seams or molded into the composite structure.

Mainsail twist is an interesting part of the engineering challenge that requires the designer to drill down into the interaction between the material properties and sail design. For most mainsails, when you ease the sheet the middle of the leech sags to leeward and the upper battens stay tight. If the material is too stretchy, or poorly oriented, the sail will get deeper in the middle and the draft will move aft in the top half of the sail as wind pressure increases. Those pressure-induced changes in the shape and depth will force the sailor to ease the mainsheet.

Easing the sheet closes off the slot between the main and jib, which will dictate that the jib sheet is also eased. This sequence of events explains why so many cruising boats ‘can’t point’ and why some sailors spend a lot of time with their sails fluttering and flapping, or they end up switching on the engine even in fresh breeze.

A well-designed sail aims for a progressive twist in the leech from the top to the bottom when the sheets are eased or when the sail sees an increase in pressure. We want the highest batten to be angled more to leeward than the one below it, and the next batten down more to leeward than the one below it, and so on, much like the wing of a bird deflects and twists on the down stroke. The twist profile is the BIG difference between a good and a bad mainsail.

After the design process, the sailmaker’s ability to replicate the theoretical shape and structure has everything to do with the construction techniques available. If you are simply cutting cloth off a roll and sewing it together, you are much more limited. The molded sail process and advanced composite construction makes it possible to place the materials exactly where they’re needed.

3. Structure (material properties) - The structure allows the sailmaker to introduce the properties into the sail that have been developed through the software design process. The latest composite materials offer the ultimate weight-to-stiffness ratio. A stiffer sail will allow you to sheet harder, apply more pressure and deliver more driving force to the hull so your boat goes faster. A stiffer sail doesn’t get deeper with increases in wind pressure, so the boat heels over less. A more upright boat equates to a more comfortable ride, and also delivers greater forward motion (less leeway).

4. Finishing - One important yet often overlooked element is how quiet a sail is when it’s being used. A low-stretch sail that fits the rig and has been designed to take advantage of the range of controls available can be set up flat and trimmed tightly so that the whole surface of the sail is pressurized and stable. There should not be any parts of the sail fluttering, flapping or panting as the boat moves through wind and waves. A good sail is a quiet sail.

Does your next sail tick the boxes?

The next time you’re about to place an order for a new sail, if you can be sure it will tick all the boxes listed in these four factors above, you know that you’re well on your way to ordering a good cruising sail. One that will deliver years of reliable and trouble-free service.

Interested in cruising sails for your multihull?

ben.kelly@northsails.com Phone: (07) 3396 5822

M

CORA CAT 48

MULTIHULL SOLUTIONS ADDS BRAND TO ITS RANGE

ultihull Solutions has added the new Cora Cat 48 to its range after being announced as the shipyard’s exclusive Asia Pacific distributor.

The feature-packed family power catamaran is built by the prestigious PMG shipyard which has been building a number of Silent 60 yachts for the Luxury European Silent Yachts Group.

Adapted from the original Heliotrope 48, the Cora Cat 48 comprises a host of upgrades including a full interior and exterior redesign, new deck moulds and a huge suite of features.

The catamaran has been designed with an emphasis on functionality, safety and comfort and is ideal for weekend cruising or blue-water adventures with an outstanding long-cruise range of 1,500nm.

Philippe Guenat and naval architect Dr Albert Nazarov designed the Cora Cat 48 around the principles of space, pace and grace, and the result is an impressive catamaran that unites advanced construction techniques, traditional craftsmanship, high-quality finishes and contemporary lines.

The Cora Cat 48 features a huge signature flybridge, which is larger than any in its category. Alongside generous cabins and a spacious galley, there is also ample deck space without compromising performance. The Cat 48 also has fast displacement hulls, which deliver effortless speed, high manoeuvrability and excellent fuel economy. The advanced vacuum-infusion hull construction technique reduces weight without compromising strength, making handling easy in all conditions. Her hulls are further strengthened by an extra layer of 5mm SORIC for chock and impact-resistant protection.

The Cora Cat 48 is not a production boat, so clients can make adaptions to suit their particular style and cruising needs.

PMG Shipyard was founded in 2004 as a privately held company with Swiss ownership and management. Strategically located by the sea on the eastern seaside of the Gulf of Thailand, the production site and offices are situated on a 20,800m2 facility with direct sea access and its own launching pier.

The company’s key management and technical team features a strong European presence with world-renowned members of the advisory board, allowing the shipyard to develop technically advanced, stylish, practical, economical and safe yachts. Key management figures include NASA astronaut Michael Lopez Alegria and Raphael Domjan who is founder of Planet Solar. PMG’s technical board provides new developments and contacts with renowned universities and solar research centres, continuously strengthening their expertise.

Multihull Solutions has ordered the first Cora Cat 48 to be on display at the 2023 Australian boat shows, and the first Australian order was taken following the 2022 Sanctuary Cove Boat Show. The company is fielding strong interest in the model from power catamaran enthusiasts across the region. The next available Cora catamaran is available for delivery during 2023.

Further information can be obtained by contacting Multihull Sol utions on 1300 855 338 or emailing info@multihullsolutions.com.au

Hanse 460 launches at Manly

NEW MODEL PROVES A CROWD PLEASER WITH STYLE AND SUBSTANCE

I t's a long way from the shores of the Baltic Sea to Moreton Bay in Queensland but sailors know an exceptional yacht when they see one – as evidenced by the strong interest shown in the new Hanse 460 at its recent Australian and New Zealand launch.

The 460 was the star attraction of a mini boat show held by Windcraft Yachts at the Royal Queensland Yacht Squadron in the Brisbane bayside suburb of Manly.

Dockside admirers were appreciative of the awardwinning luxury cruiser’s exterior aesthetics: angular looks, sleek and powerful hull lines, and reverse bow. The 460’s huge cockpit, generous freeboard and ample beam were admired, while the yacht’s stylish interior and superior appointments were praised by experienced cruisers who recognised its many comforts.

Manufactured by the Hanse Group in Greifswald, Germany, the Hanse 460 has proved a big hit on the international yachting scene, winning a coveted European Yacht of the Year Award in the Family Cruiser category and an astounding 250 hulls sold to date –making it one of the most successful new yachts ever produced by the leading global brand.

Australian and Kiwi sailors have been quick to secure a dozen examples of the new model, with the first Australian 460 superbly set-up for extended stays in Queensland’s world-class cruising grounds. Ohana boasts a T-top that shields the entire cockpit from the

elements, along with a host of extras including a handy fridge in cockpit, an additional freezer in the utility room which also contains a washer/dryer, an upgraded 80hp engine, solar panels, the very latest lithium-ion battery technology and B&G navigation systems.

Windcraft’s Managing Director Anthony Bishop was on-hand to talk with many of those eager to look over the all-new design of the 460 from acclaimed French naval architects Berret-Racoupeau, well-known for their innovative and stylish creations.

“People love the initial look,” he agrees. “It is a stunning looking boat but then as you peel back the layers you find that’s underpinned by real substance and the thought gone into the little details,” Bishop says. He also highlights the Hanse 460’s emphasis on sailing performance and handling with a knuckle above the waterline and rounded rounded chine towards the stern combining to produce a highly efficient hull shape, leaving minimal wake. He reports a post-show test sail saw the boat easily achieve 8.5 knots in 12knots of wind.

Equally impressive is the level of interior finishes, furniture and materials that Hanse is confident will elevate the 460 above other production offerings. “The build quality is another step up for Hanse with the interior finish being something everyone commented on,” Bishop noted.

The overall volume of the boat was another talking point, with the observation that the increased aft beam of the 460 also allows for much larger and spacious cabins that feel extra roomy for a boat of this size.

Changing trends are also factoring into the decisions of potential buyers and the 460’s LOA (length overall) of 14.6 metres, coming in under 15 metres gives it an added advantage when its amount of liveaboard space is taken into account. Many cruising sailors are finding larger marina berths over 15 metres increasingly difficult to secure.

Despite the unprecedented demand for the Hanse 460, Windcraft has a few hulls arriving that are still available but Bishop doesn’t expect them to last long given the enthusiasm displayed at the mini-show.

“Clearly this design has ticked a lot of boxes for people,” he acknowledges. “As the factory applies this same winning formula to the larger and smaller Hanse models, we will see a big leap forward for our industry” he predicts. And that’s good news for anyone contemplating buying a cruising boat that combines functionality, easy handling, versatility and style.

www.windcraftyachts.com info@windcraftyachts.com

AXOPAR REEF ADVENTURE WithWhitsundaysPrivateCharters

U tilising Axopar’s knowledge and the time and effort spent developing the larger siblings in the range, Axopar are introducing a true crossover between comfortable day boating and extended island-hopping, where the seaworthiness and handling that all Axopars are renowned for come to the fore.

Sailing the Whitsundays was a huge part of my childhood, with months spent cruising these waterways. Now, despite having spent dozens of hours onboard Axopar boats, I can say with absolute certainty that my experience with Whitsundays Private Charters was one of, if not the best on water experience, I have ever had, and that is a huge call.

From being greeted on the dock in one of Coral Sea Marina’s most sought after locations to going fast, and I mean really fast out to the islands, and finding ourselves in quiet bays with colourful coral and an array of sea life, this is what Whitsundays Private Charters are all about.

If you’re familiar with the Axopar 37, you’ll know why this luxury day boat makes for the perfect charter vessel in the Whitsundays. The performance hull has been meticulously engineered to glide through chop at extraordinary speeds with very little movement. Travelling from location to location at a whopping 45knots has never felt so good and as someone with a sailing background, speeding along on arguably the fastest vessel in the Whitsundays allows you to cover a massive amount of ground in only one day. Speeding through the channels we were stopped by a friendly whale which decided to breach just metres from our stern, so close we almost felt the splash. No matter how many times I see these gentle giants of the sea, I never cease to be amazed. We were told that this is not a rare sighting in this area and something guests often look forward to.

First stop was Saba Bay, and we were greeted by…no one! We were the only people in the entire anchorage, what a treat. Saba is well known for its spectacular coral and it did not disappoint. The colour and variety were honestly phenomenal. In my 25 years, I’ve seen a fair bit of coral, travelling this area in my younger years but honestly this is some of the best I have ever seen.

Gill on the other hand, who had never been snorkelling was in complete awe, “With all my experience on top of the water, sailing and surfing I’d never snorkelled and in jumping in the water and looking through the goggles for the first time I felt like I’d ridden my first wave. I’d never seen the ocean from this perspective, and it was absolutely phenomenal, something I would recommend to anyone if you haven’t

before. Additionally, I didn’t expect to be so taken back by the feeling of putting on a mask, Jake was exceptional and allowed me to really enjoy the experience by guiding me around the reef,” Gill admitted.

A well-deserved lunch was in order after a thrilling snorkel around the bay. It felt like we had all the time in the world and time did not even exist.

Next stop was Manta Ray Bay, famous for its manta ray sculptures that lay on the ocean floor. However, the best part of this location and probably the highlight of the entire day was the diverse marine life and giant fish. Jake came prepared with fish food and as soon as he sprinkled the pellets into the water hundreds of fish of all sizes surfaced to get a piece. Jumping in we were immediately immersed in a totally different universe, the underwater world. I have never been surrounded by so many fish, especially not ones that were not timid in the slightest, they were so close we could almost touch them.

All in all, the day was phenomenal, with Jake as skipper and his 11 year old son as the deck hand along with great friends and great weather, I just don’t think it gets much better than this.

“It is very rare I walk away from an experience thinking, that is going to be a core memory I will take with me forever, but this is certainly one of those moments. From being on one of the world’s best vessels and one of my personal favourites to experiencing one of the wonders of the world I don’t think I will ever stop raving to friends and family about this truly once-in-a-lifetime experience, that is unless I get to go back again.

“Most of my time spent on Axopars and boats in general these days is as a skipper. Exploring the Whitsundays on a fully skippered vessel was seriously a luxury experience. I really felt myself relax and get to enjoy the boat from a different perspective. I would recommend this to anyone.” – Nicky.

For adventure lovers, the Axopar 37 comes complete with snorkelling gear, a seascooter and paddleboard so there is never a dull moment onboard. No matter what your circumstances Whitsundays Private Charters is the best option for anyone wanting to experience a day in the Whitsundays Islands to the greatest potential. www.whitsundaysprivatecharters.com.au

For Axopar details contact Eyachts boats@eyachts.com.au or (02) 9979 2443.

Story and photos by Marnie Ebeling

Offering first-class marine facilities on Queensland’s Coral Coast, Bundaberg Port Marina is well placed with 200 top quality floating berths able to berth vessels up to 45 metres. Each berth has power, water and Wi-Fi. Convenient 24/7 refuelling, modern amenities, courtesy bus, gift shop, coin-operated laundromat, public phones, LPG refills and ice are some of the facilities and services available to Marina guests. The complex also houses a fully-licensed restaurant, ships' chandlery, takeaway store, marine brokerage, and a booking office for the Lady Musgrave Experience Tours.

Bundaberg Port Marina is an official Port of Entry and receives more vessels into Australia than any other on the east coast. The marina offers an easy deep-water, all-weather entrance day or night and this is one the many factors that has contributed to an increasing influx of vessels each year to the Coral Coast. Our boat yard and ship lift facility has become one of the most recognised ship repair facilities on the east coast. The hardstand

and ship lift are considered first class, with a 75t ship lift enabling us to lift vessels with a maximum 6.6m beam, concrete hardstand area, high-pressure cleaning service, fully-enclosed paint shed and work bays for sandblasting activities. The yard provides quality cradles and stands, professional staff and one of the largest dry storage yards on the east coast. The trade complex is accessible from the working yard and has many associated tradesmen available for on-site repairs. Owners are welcome to complete as little or as much work on their vessels as suits, it is totally up to the individual.

Recreational and commercial operators from all over Australia and the World trust us to store their vessels in our dry storage facility when the time comes to return home. The dry storage area is fully fenced and we can complete all vessel checks whilst you are away from your vessel. As a testimonial for the care taken of your vessel, many of our clients return season after season to leave their vessel in a safe and secure yard.

The Marina Office is open 7 days per week and provides a courtesy bus for transport into Bundaberg City Monday to Friday and to the Shalom Markets every Sunday. Port Marina Gifts is our beautiful gift store, located in the Marina Office. Pop in and check out our lovely range of resort wear, handbags, beach bags, sarongs, Byron Bay Candles and diffusers, nautical and beach giftware, souvenirs, and the world-famous Maui Jim Sunglasses.

A number of world-class tourist attractions are located in Bundaberg and these include: Bundaberg Rum Distillery Tours, Mon Repos Turtle Sanctuary Tours, Bert Hinkler Aviation Museum, Botanical Gardens, and Bundaberg Brewed Drinks Factory.

All tours can be easily booked through Bundaberg Port Marina and provide an endless opportunity to enjoy our city and surrounds.

We look forward to meeting you all soon at Bundaberg Port Marina. bundabergportmarina.com.au

Bundaberg Port Marina is situated 1 nautical mile from the entrance of the Burnett River and offers all weather, all tides, deep water access to visitors to the Coral Coast.

Tin Can Bay to Hervey Bay

The Tin Can Bay to Hervey Bay (Bay to Bay) Race was conceived by members of the Hervey Bay Sailing Club on 18 April 1980. The twoday, 87 km event features an overnight stop at Garry's Anchorage at Fraser Island. Over 114 vessels competed in the 1981 inaugural event.

After a suggestion by Tim Bardon (Cygnet #21), Will Hardcastle (Cygnet #11) and I (Cygnet #1) decided to enter the 2022 (April 30th to May 1st) Bay to Bay and use the trailer-sailer event as a

Enlisting Khara, who had recently completed a 2nd-leg circumnavigation of Tasmania aboard China Girl, as crew, I trailered Cygnet from Newcastle to Tin Can Bay over two days.

Immediately launching Cygnet, I drove the trailer to Hervey Bay and bussed back ready for the

By David Bradburn

Af ter our catch up, we returned to our boats for dinner followed by an early night, ready for the next day's racing.

DAY 2, 24 nm

Most boats motored to the line, with crews having fun bantering with each other.

Cygnet was in the first group to start, with the larger and faster classes following later.

It was exciting to be amongst so many boats, especially with some large skiffs slicing their way through the fleet – fortunately without incident.

Initially close, the three boats in our group began to spread out, with Tim and Will way in front and Khara and I just trying to do our best! We sailed along the Great Sandy Straits with the current and, at one stage, were doing over 8 kts! The two Cygnets were flying with most of the small boats lagging way behind, so I thought we mustn't be doing too badly!

After some confusion as to its positioning, we crossed the finish line by 2:00 pm, followed by a quick sail to the yacht club marina, with the customary running aground, keel up, and catch up with the others.

The race began at 11:30 am. Cygnet started well, neck-and-neck with Cirrus, until Tim started to break off to port. Not understanding his thinking, we decided to stick with the pack. Before long, Will in Amethyst raised an asymmetrical spinnaker, and flew past us - and most of the

Well, after seeing Tim way off to port, next thing we knew, he was an incredible 1-2 nm ahead of us! We poled out #2 and sailed the best we could, being competitive but were unable to hold them off without a spinnaker. Despite that, it was fun being on the water in beautiful conditions.

The race finished around 4:00 pm and we all gathered to have drinks and nibbles and talk about the day’s events. Tim explained his strategy to sail on the edge of the Straits, thus avoiding a head-on current, and effectively leaving other boats, even those using spinnakers, in his wake!

At the Awards Ceremony, everyone was keen to see the placings!

Division A was: 1st Amethyst, 2nd Cirrus, 3rd Cygnet. We were astounded, thinking that Tim in Cirrus had outperformed Will in Amethyst. Eventually the organisers agreed, realising that Will had earlier informed them of his use of a spinnaker, and revised the order to 1st Cirrus and 2ndCygnet.

I stayed overnight at the Marina and returned to Newcastle the following morning, dropping Khara at Kew, near Port Macquarie.

The trip was great fun and we’re already looking forward to next year, and hopefully more Cygnet 20s! www.herveybaysailingclub.org.au/events/ bay-to-bay-trailable-yacht-race/

Cygnet 20 starts from

Become a part of our Gaff Association and join in for short, fun races, pretty anchorages, and sharing stories and adventures with other Cygnet 20 owners … why wait? Join our newsletter at www.bluewatercruisingyachts.com

Trailer Sailing or Bluewater Passages? …. that is the question. Bluewater Cruising Yachts situated in Lake Macquarie, NSW can build you a new Cygnet 20, a beautiful trailer sailer that is light to tow, carbon fibre rig, water ballast, easy to sail, and sleeps 4 comfortably. If you like the idea of day sailing and exploring inland rivers and waterways, this little beauty is the yacht for you.…what’s not to love? There are a total of 48 Cygnet 20’s sold with 13 of those into the Gold Goast, Brisbane & Sunshine Coast areas so far, and we want to see those numbers grow.

AFLOAT – Australia’s Best Read Boating Magazine

And for the more adventurous we have the Bluewater 420, a true ocean going yacht with an AVS of 135° This Bluewater yacht is designed to make those ocean sea miles with confidence, safely and comfortably.

Bluewater 420

Raised Saloon Version

Starts from $746,750.00 plus GST

Centre Cockpit Version Starts from $762,400.00 plus GST

visit www.bluewatercruisingyachts.com or email david@bluewatercruisingyachts.com

Australian offshore sailing history in 75th annual race

One of the southern hemisphere’s most iconic offshore races - the Gladstone Ports Corporation’s Brisbane to Gladstone Yacht Race will celebrate 75 years when it sets sail on Good Friday, 7th April 2023 from Moreton Bay to Gladstone over 308 nautical miles.

Considered an Australian icon by many discerning sailors, the Brisbane to Gladstone Yacht Race is one of the oldest and most fiercely fought blue water yacht races on the Australian sailing race calendar.

After a spectacular spinnaker start in south easterly winds on Moreton Bay followed by a thrilling race ranging from 10-15 knots to Gladstone, last year’s 74th annual race saw multiple race records tumble.

Peter Harburg’s super maxi 100-foot Black Jack took line honours eclipsing its previous race record of 16 hours, 53 minutes and 57 seconds which had been held since 2018, setting a new race record of 16 hours, 13 minutes and 56 seconds. Three yachts named Black Jack – all owned by Peter Harburg - have taken line honours eight times since 2008 – Black Jack 66 (2009 and 2010), Black Jack 77 (2014, 2015, 2016 and 2017) and Black Jack 100 (2018 and 2022).

Celestial – owned by Dr Sam Haynes –set a new record for a conventionally ballasted yacht, completing the race in 19 hours 24 minutes and 52 seconds. After a tense protest with Celestial and a result that mirrored the 2021 Rolex Sydney to Hobart Yacht Race, Ichi Ban won the race overall on corrected time in 2022 and took out the coveted, The Courier-Mail Cup.

The Courier-Mail Cup is believed to be one of the oldest perpetual trophies in Australian history to be competed for on a continual basis since 1949. Ian Gidlow, Commodore of race organising club, Queensland Cruising Yacht Club (QCYC) says the Brisbane to Gladstone Yacht Race is steeped in tradition and proudly remains one of the true blue water ocean classics in the southern hemisphere.

“The race has all the hallmarks of a great passage race – a demanding exit from the bay under pressure from the tide clock, a fast slide up the coast in the dark, a high pressure run into sub-tropical waters and inevitably an intense and often unpredictable finish,” Mr Gidlow says.

The Brisbane to Gladstone Yacht Race start is live streamed and combined with Yacht Tracker and the virtual race is followed by an audience of over 100,000 globally. “We are incredibly proud of the stature the race holds with sailors who make this a fixture of their annual race calendar and we look forward to welcoming a large and competitive fleet of offshore racing yachts and sailors from around Australia and overseas,” he said.

In 2023, to commemorate the 75th anniversary, sailors will be vying for the biggest array of trophies and prizes in the history of the race. Thanks to the official timekeeper, ADINA Watches, the skipper and all crew members of the Overall IRC winning yacht will be presented

with a specially designed Brisbane to Gladstone Yacht Race Winners Edition watch - the only blue water race in Australia to offer trophy watches for all winning IRC crew members. The skipper of the Line Honours winning yacht will also receive one of the exclusive ADINA watches.

Believed to be the largest monetary prize in Australian sailing for the Performance Handicap Rating Factor (PHRF) division, the overall PHRF winner will be awarded the Peter Holm Cup along with a $10,000 cash prize.

The Brisbane to Gladstone Yacht Race is steeped in history and was first ever sailed in Easter 1949 where seven vessels took the start line, two of which carried radios while Brisbane’s Homing Pigeon Club supplied pigeons for the other competing vessels.

Further information about the Gladstone Ports Corporation’s 75th Brisbane to Gladstone Yacht Race is available by visiting www. brisbanetogladstone.com or by telephoning Queensland Cruising Yacht Club Vice Commodore Harley Cowlishaw on 0437 729 642 or emailing raceentries@qcyc.com.au

BIG BRANDS

Sailing Superyacht Catamaran FOUNTAINE PAJOT NEW 80

F ountaine Pajot is unveiling its ambitions to go even further in innovation, luxury and habitability with the launch of its 24-meter catamaran whose real name has yet to be revealed.

HIGH STANDARDS AND EXCELLENCE

For a sailing superyacht such as the New 80, there is no compromise. All materials are available with several choices, the layout versions are multiple and cover all possible demands. This is a truly modular luxury catamaran, capable of adapting to your desires and tastes, while maintaining the Fountaine Pajot DNA. The standard inventory of the boat includes equipment such as the genset or the aft platform which are normally optional, and many others.

MULTIPLE SPACES OF CONVIVIALITY OUTSIDE

~ FRONT COCKPIT | The large forward cockpit has its own bar and a vast sunbed in order to balance the aft relaxation area under the sunbed is a Jacuzzi. There is a sea-tight door that connects the forward cockpit directly to the saloon inside. To either side of this huge relaxation area are two vast deck lockers.

~ FLYBRIDGE | On a luxury catamaran of this size, the flybridge takes on the mantle of an extra deck, and the new 80 exploits this possibility to the full. Beneath a hard-top bimini, two fullyequipped helm stations occupy the forward part of the deck. All the control lines come back to a central winch and two lateral sheet winches. This zone is completely dedicated to sailing manoeuvres. Further aft, the real story is the elegant wrap-around sofa, fridge, and full wet bar, as well as a plancha grill.

~ AFT COCKPIT & BEACH CLUB | Further to the rear is an essential asset for all superyachts: the beach club. Down an elegant flight of steps set into either transom, you reach a platform that stands just above the waterline – ideal for swimmers. In between the two hulls, a large hydraulic bathing platform can be raised or lowered. This can turn the whole aft area into a huge area for swimmers

and sunbathers, or serve as a launch pad for divers and watersporters.

This boat has been conceived as a superyacht, with top-of-the-range quality and a very fine selection of materials. Fountaine Pajot has paid particular attention to such details as the fine cabinetry and stylish loose furniture which combine to create the sense of a luxury lounge.

~ THE SALOON | Deep sofas to starboard and free-standing seating to port with cocktail tables both enjoy fantastic views of the sea through the wrap-around windows. Here, a beautiful piece of teak cabinetry is set with hand-stitched leather to conceal a pop-up TV. There’s also an extensive chart table with navigation displays. The boat is conceived with a crew on board – two plus a skipper, each with their own dedicated space aft on the port side.

~ OWNERS SUITE | A true five-star suite including a desk and a sofa, as well as a separate toilet, a shower and two sinks. There is even a bathtub!

GREAT INNOVATIONS

New to this 24-meter yacht, Berret-Racoupeau Yachts Design have integrated a revolutionary way of providing shade on the flybridge, and on the side decks below. Semi-transparent solar panels, elegantly encased in glass, cast a dappled light below while providing enough power in the heat of summer’s day to power the boat’s hotel load.

Two more completely new features stand out on the main deck below. A large 3m-long balcony folds down out of the bulwarks on each side of the cockpit, creating an entirely new dimension to the relaxation options here. While the balcony invites you to dive into the sea alongside, it also creates the opportunity for a sofa, built into the cockpit coaming. In effect, it adds two ‘side cockpits’ to the main cockpit.

As a catamaran with its slender hulls, the boat will be capable of effortless passagemaking at 8-9 knots average. And with a vast 200 square metre mainsail and an even bigger gennaker, she will manage exhilarating top speeds. All seemingly without effort.

Further information can be obtained by contacting Multihull Solutions on 1300 855 338 or emailing info@multihullsolutions.com.au

BECAUSE... CLASSIC NEVER GOES OUT OF STYLE!