Regatta teaches old sea dogs new tricks

Steam power meets 21st century technology as Putters Log On via App.

The days of steam power, polished brass and clinkerbuilt timber boats were fondly remembered as the annual Port Hacking Putters Regatta set off from Hungry Point on the first Saturday in February.

Under grey skies, Cronulla MP Mark Speakman and MR Botany Port Hacking Unit Commander Noel Parkinson rang the bell to send the flotilla of 55 classic and wooden vessels on its way for a 90-minute cruise around Gunnamatta Bay and on to Lilli Pilli.

Mr Speakman said the regatta not only celebrated the history of boating on Port Hacking but also raised funds for the local unit and safety awareness, with skippers encouraged to Log On via the free MRNSW smartphone App.

Entrants included the SS Minnow, under the uncertain control of the Skipper and Gilligan, the steam powered Choof and Puff and an historic 1910 RME.

Rescue vessel Botany Hacking 31 joined the procession, with the crew keeping a watchful eye out for anyone in need of a helping hand.

Presiding over the event was Putters Commodore, MRNSW Assistant Director of Training and Education, Brad Whittaker.

Mr Whittaker said the regatta was one of the Sutherland Shire’s

Grey, misty skies didn’t dampen the enthusiasm of the boaters who donned period costume and fancy dress to board the 55 vessels that took part in this year’s Port Hacking Putters Regatta. Photos: Brad Whittaker.

most colourful events and an annual celebration of the Hacking’s boating heritage, with many historic boats taking part and crews getting into the spirit by dressing in period costume and fancy dress.

“Some of the boats might be more than a century old but on the day, everyone was able to Log On and Off,” he said.

“It just goes to show that you really can teach an old sea dog a new trick.”

Passengers on the Tom Thumb III ferry raised $1500, with the support of Cronulla Ferries and Dominelli Ford, for the unit.

Cronulla MP Mark Speakman and MR Botany Port Hacking UC Noel Parkinson ring the bell to send the flotilla off on its 90-minute cruise.

The annual Putters Regatta rekindles the romantic days of steam power, polished brass and clinker-built timber boats plying Port Hacking. The SS Minnow takes out the Commodore’s Call prize, much to the delight of its passengers, Gilligan, the Skipper too, a millionaire and his wife, a movie star, the Professor and Mary Ann. Photo: Bob Wilson.