Local Boating Impressions

Paddy’s First Impressions Paddy’'s First Impressions GOLD COAST BOATING LIFESTYLE

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.” 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.

“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

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.

By Andy Kancachian

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. ● 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. ● 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 WARRANTY AND SUPPORT

We’ve got you covered. Every single one of our Genuine Volvo Penta parts, accessories and propulsion packages comes complete with robust warranty protection. So you can take to the sea with total confidence.

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) 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.

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 Volvo Penta owner, only you can choose to protect the value of your asset by ensuring your Volvo Penta products are only worked on by an authorised dealer.

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 vary depending on product, contact your local Volvo Penta dealer or visit www.volvopenta.com/marine/service-and-support/warranty/ for more details.

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.

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 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 30 - 40kts 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. 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 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. 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.

CLEAN TANKS

A COMPLETE FUEL SYSTEM CONDITIONER

For 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. 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 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