26 minute read
Conservation Program
Good habits formed at youth make all the difference. - Aristotle
Here’s To New Beginnings!
The truth is: the natural 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.
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
INFLATABLE PONTOONS
Portable, sturdy, heavy-duty, hard, floating platforms & extendable decks
Get safe & easy access to your boat. Avoid ‘beaching’ your boat to shore. Extend your deck space. Keep your boat clean. Inflate in 3 mins. Designs created in Australia since 2013
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.
SPECIFICATIONS:
GARMIN
PRODUCTS OF EXCELLENCE
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.
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. 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.
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.
SUZUKI MARINE NEW INTEGRATED STEERING SYSTEM
Suzuki 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
COBALT R8
NEXT GENERATION BOWRIDER
The R8 can be fitted with underwater lighting
The R8 is truly THE next generation 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
Length Overall w/Swim Platform 8.48 m Beam 2.59 m Fuel Capacity 302 L Freshwater Capacity 38 L Bridge Clearance w/o Bimini 1.57 m Bridge Clearance w/arch 2.59 m Draft Drive Up 0.46 m Drive Down 0.89 m Dry Weight 2903 kg
AMP-TECH LITHIUM DEEP CYCLE BATTERY
Supercharge 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 compliance 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.
1300 288 888 // supercharge.com.au
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
supercharge.com.au
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
MERCURY MARINE PRO XS IT’S GOT SOME STING!
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.
