FEBRUARY/MARCH 2012
Published bi-monthly by VOLUNTEER MARINE RESCUE, BRISBANE Radio Call Sign Marine Rescue Sandgate Phone: 3269.8888 A/H Emergency Phone: 0428 022881 Fax. 3269.2245 www.vmrsandgate.net.au
VMR BRISBANE is proudly supported by
ENERGEX and PORT OF BRISBANE
WHAT’S COMING UP
CONTRIBUTORS PLEASE NOTE!
FEBRUARY 2012 11th SYC Cocktail Party celebrating SYC Centenary 12th SYC Dinghy Race ... Starting time 1.00 pm 14th 15th 19th 24th 26th 26th 28th 29th
Lionfish Dive Group Social ... 6.30 pm SCC Management Meeting ... 7.00 pm SYC TS/KB Race ... starting time 10.00 a.m. Papa Crew’s Dinner ... from 6.30 pm SYC Sailing Heats 7 and 8 Club Championships ... Starting time midday SYC Meeting ... 4.00 pm VMRB Management Team Meeting ... 7.30 pm Lionfish Dive Group Committee Meeting ... 6.30 pm
The next deadline for contributions to BOAT TALK is
FRIDAY, 23RD MARCH 2012 Earlier submissions preferred!
MARCH 2012 10th 11th 13th 21st 18th 24th 25th 27th 28th 29th 29th
Qld Flying Fifteen Championships ... Starting time midday Qld Flying Fifteen Championships ... Starting time 11.30 am Lionfish Dive Group Social ... 6.30 pm SCC Management Meeting ... 7.00 pm SYC TS/KB Race ... Starting time 10 am Delta Crew Dinner ... from 6.30 pm SYC Sailing Heats 9 and 10 Club Championships ... Starting time 11.30 am VMRB Management Team Meeting ... 7.30 pm Lionfish Dive Group Committee Meeting ... 6.30 pm SYC Sailing ... Starting time 1.00 pm SYC Meeting ... 4.00 pm Please check meeting dates when they fall on school or public holidays.
LOOKING AHEAD TO APRIL 2012
Easter (6-9 April) Modern 18 footers racing 10th Lionfish Dive Group Social ... 6.30 pm 18th SCC Management Meeting ... 7.00 pm 22nd SYC TS/KB Race ... starting time 10.00 am then presentation afterwards 24th VMRB Management Team Meeting ... 7.30 pm 25th Lionfish Dive Group Committee Meeting ... 6.30 pm VOLUNTEER MARINE RESCUE BRISBANE PO Box 201, Sandgate Q 4017 Phone: 3269 8888 Fax: 3269 2245 www.vmrsandgate.net.au Radio Radio Call Call Sign Sign ‘Marine ‘Marine Rescue Rescue Sandgate’ Sandgate’VMR 401
VMR BRISBANE MANAGEMENT TEAM President:
Neil Sheppard president@vmrsandgate.net.au
Immediate Past President: David Davis 3269 7937
past.president@vmrsandgate.net.au
Senior Vice-President: Bob Chapman 3166 5521
snr.vice.president@vmrsandgate.net.au
Junior Vice-President: Wayne Wright 0407 916388
Secretary: 3865 6364
jnr.vice.president@vmrsandgate.net.au
David Massam secretary@vmrsandgate.net.au
Treasurer:
Glenn Philip
0433 154105
treasurer@vmrsandgate.net.au
Unit Training Coordinator: Peter Leech 3314 0388
Crew Liaison: 3886 5451
UNIT CHAPLAIN: Rev. Ron Holt Zone Delegates:
Members Representatives: Stan Lewis 3203 4164 admin @bsf.com.au Bill Hirn 3203 5865 williamhirn@bigpond.com
Thomas Grice 0413 200271 it@vmrsandgate.net.au Greg Keough 3261 8821 membership@vmrsandgate.net.au
Membership: Publicity:
Deidre Windham 0419 766687 publicity@vmrsandgate.net.au
Vessel & Equipment:
Bill Hirn Bob Chapman
utc @vmrsandgate.net.au
Karl Nast
3166 5521 3166 9742
Occupational Health & Safety: Peter Leech 3314 0388 whso@vmrsandgate.net.au
Building & Grounds:
crew.liaison@vmrsandgate.net.au Assistant Providore:
Ph 3269 6357
3203 5865 3216 5521
Bob Chapman 3216 5521 snr.vice.president@vmrsandgate.net.au Joe McCoy
rbprint@bigpond.net.au
VMR Brisbane is proudly supported by and
Ph 3865.8896
Bob Chapman David Massam
IT & Communication:
editor@vmrsandgate.net.au
Publisher: Volunteer Marine Rescue, Brisbane Redback Print Printed by:
Queensland Water Police State Coordinator Member for Deagon: Cr. Victoria Newton Member for Sandgate: Ms Vicky Darling MLA
EXECUTIVE OFFICERS: 0417 499326
BOAT TALK Editor: Deidre Windham Ph: 3602 5250
Volunteer Marine Rescue, Brisbane is a member of the Volunteer Marine Rescue Association of Queensland
PATRONS
New members this month are Dan Armfield Chris Noble Jess Morgan Sara Stuart Mark Purtell John Stuart Jo Dalby Chris Gissing Brad Dalby Gary MacDonald Steve Monkman We look forward to seeing you around the Base and getting to know you better soon.
3269 1255
3269 8633
Venue Manager:
Tom Begbie
Hall Hire:
Tom Begbie 3269 8633 hallhire@vmrsandgate.net.au
Duty Roster:
Ray Langdon
Assistant to Treasurer:
0432 248679
..........................................................
Activations Recording: Luke Hillyard
0421 239559
Key Custodian: Refer to Neil Sheppard key.custodian@vmrsandgate.net.au Fishing & Cruising: Social & Support Team: Unit Historian: Webmaster:
....................................................... fishing.cruising@vmrsandgate.net.au Rae Hirn
3203 5865 williamhirn@bigpond.com ......................................................
Glenn Philip 0433 154105 webmaster@vmrsandgate.net.au
The The Team Team also also includes includes representatives representatives from from ourour Associated Associated Groups Groups - SYC - SYC .......................... .......................... Management Meetings are held at the Club at 7.30pm on the fourth Tuesday of each month, SCC SCC .......................... .......................... and members are welcome to attend. Lionfish Lionfish .......................... .......................... Please don’t hesitate to contact us if there is a matter you wish discussed.
- Front Cover: Sierra Crew to the rescue on 27th Dec 2011
2 - February/March October/November 2012 2011
Boat Talk is published bi-monthly.
BOAT TALK
VMR, BRISBANE
WELCOME TO FEBRUARY/MARCH 2012 From our President I hope that you and your family had a happy and peaceful festive season. Just prior to Christmas was a busy time. Bob Chapman attended the launching of the new Water Police vessel named G J Olive. I attended a function hosted by Wayne Swan MP which was well attended. It highlighted to me the number and diversity of the volunteer and community organisations and the stiff competition we face for funding whether it is from Government, grants or corporate sponsorship. It is important that we lift our profile in our community so that we can communicate the value of the very good work we do on a day-to- day basis. Our new thermal imaging unit has been installed in Energex Sandgate I thanks to funding from the Port of Brisbane. This will help us enormously when tasked on search and rescue missions where visibility is poor. You would recall that we received funding from the Kedron Wavell RSL to purchase new computer equipment for our Radio Room and Member Administration area. This equipment should be installed within the next month or so. Also, we are assessing a new membership management and log on / off system currently in use at VMR Bribie. Crew training is a critical issue for our Squadron and our UTC Peter Leech continues to work diligently to help progress our crew members through a challenging training program. The launching point for this program is the completion of the Elements of Shipboard Safety (ESS) module (achieving one stripe on your epaulette). ESS must be completed within six months of you joining a Crew. If you haven't completed your ESS and have been on a Crew for more than six months then please contact Peter or me as soon as possible. Also, with the assistance of Robert Brock from VMRAQ, we are exploring opportunities to help speed up the program for those members that are progressing well with their studies and are in sight of Coxswain qualifications. The Alpha Crew BBQ was a great success with 60 plus people in attendance. Thanks to Joe and his Crew for putting on a great night. The next BBQ is hosted by Papa Crew and will be held on 24 February. With all of our events it would help us enormously if you could advise whether or not you can attend the event by the RSVP date. And if you have advised us of your attendance but subsequently find that you can't attend then please let us know as soon as possible. This helps us plan our catering and seating arrangements so that everyone is looked after and we do not incur unnecessary waste and expense. Our next Duty Masters’ meeting is scheduled for March. At this meeting we will be joined by the Officer in Charge, Redcliffe Queensland Ambulance Service. This is a perfect opportunity for us to get to know each other and how we operate so that we can provide the best possible service to people requiring medivacs from Tangalooma and surrounding areas. Please note that all accidents / incidents around the Base (and on our vessels) resulting in a person being hurt must be reported as soon as possible by submitting a Form 2 Record of Injury form to our OH & S, Peter Leech, and a copy to me. As mentioned in the Dec 2011/Jan 2012 edition of Boat Talk, building and premises security is a shared responsibility. When you are using the Club's facilities it is important that you pay attention to how you can play your part to ensure that all areas are left as secure as possible. In particular, the gates to the Hardstand area must remain closed when not in use. This includes the circumstance where you may be attending to your vessel in the Hardstand area. Changes to boating rules came into effect on 1 January 2012. MSQ will conduct an information session at our Base on 21 February commencing at 7pm. This session is open to members and the general public so please come along to hear first hand about the changes and how they might impact you. Best wishes
DINNER DATES
Neil Sheppard, President
From the Editor
Apart from our usual monthly dinners, there are some other major events coming up. To start with there is the first of the SYC Centenary celebrations on 11th February (for more see page 8) and then the MSQ Recreation Boating session on 21st February (full details, see page 15 ). Meet our new Membership Officer, Greg Keough on page 7 while on page 12 you can read a review, by one of our new members,Arthur Powell, of the World War 2 action near Caloundra. I’m sorry to say it looks like our Me and My Boat series is finished as no-one seems to want to tell me their stories! Hopefully you’ve enjoyed reading the ones published to-date. My sincere thanks to the members who keep me laughing with the jokes they send. Lastly, I really want you to read the bit about ‘Now, What do Crews do?’ on page 14. Happy Reading
VMR, BRISBANE
FEBRUARY - Friday 24th - Papa Crew The theme for February is “Valentine's Day” with Nigel's crew likely to ensure there’s a little love in the air. RSVP by 17th February to webmaster@vmrsandgate.net.au or text 0415 254 732. Remember there is always a lucky prize for someone who booked to come. MARCH - Friday, 23rd - Delta Crew Time for Bob Chapman’s Crew to reveal their culinary skills! RSVP by 16th March either by texting 0415 254 732 or emailing webmaster@vmrsandgate.net.au
BOAT TALK
February/March 2012 - 3
Activations
DECEMBER 2011 - JANUARY 2012
The weather over the last two months has been far from ideal, especially over the holiday period. Unfortunately incomplete reports mean that the details of activations over December 2011 and January 2012 are not available. Sincere thanks to those crews who do take the time to fulfil their recording obligations properly. However VMRB had 2 Medivacs, 4 Tows, 1 Search and 9 training exercises taking 118.20 manhours and 33.40 engine hours, using 1347 litres of fuel.
Crews’ News As mentioned above, weather conditions over the holiday period tended to be windy with rough seas and days with heavy rain towards the end of January. The crews really appreciated the hampers put together for their enjoyment – and, in some cases, the monotony of days when only one boat logged on was broken by the festive touches. Foxtrot Crew had a great exercise in trim and speed to make the ride in Energex Sandgate 1 as comfortable as possible in what can only be described as the Moreton Bay slop in a search for a grounded vessel at St. Helena. The waves were approximately 2 metres on the way across the bay with them peaking at 3 metres at the Brisbane River although it was beautiful and calm once they were behind St Helena. Delta Crew spent the day training, as no jobs were received for the watch. Local knowledge of the Pine River channel and its associated navigation marks on and adjacent to the Houghton Highway Bridge was obtained by taking Energex Sandgate 1 on an inspection voyage. A trip to the Clontarf boat ramp was included in the exercise. Other training activities included rope work, helming and navigation exercises. The hydraulic steering system on Energex Sandgate 1 lost oil during the sea going exercises and time was spent topping up and testing the system. Delta Crew's best single log on for the day was the Brownsea Scouts who launched an armada of canoes for a voyage up the Cabbage Tree and Nundah Creeks. There were 11 adult and 27 scout persons on board. Fortunately they all returned safely to base, close to their ETR. th On 4 December, Quebec Crew were training using search patterns when they received a call to assist a vessel in distress at Lucinda Bay. It had a crack in the 4.2 m hull and was taking on water. However the skipper managed to tie his craft to a channel marker near Tangalooma and was assisted by a passing vessel. (He retrieved his boat on Christmas Day.) Bravo Crew assisted Sandgate Canoe Club in their training exercise with sea kayaks at Queen's Beach Redcliffe. The exercise involved retrieving an injured person from his kayak, loading him on to our vessel and attempting to tow the kayak. Because of the onshore winds and large seas, they anchored the vessel 50 metres offshore and let the kayaks paddle out. The injured person was brought aboard through our side door. As the kayakers were keen to trial a towing harness, a tow rope was attached to it and the kayak was towed into the seas, beam on and downwind. This proved to be a great success and the crew enjoyed the training. th On 18 December, Papa Crew had a busy day, in spite of the poor weather which meant very few boats were on the bay and only four boats logged on. The 6.37am log-on got to the E4 Beacon near Moreton when its fuel system water separator collapsed leaking fuel and interrupting fuel supply, creating an obvious fire risk. A tow was arranged and 2½ hours later the member was returned to our pontoon. Just as they made the Fisheries Beacon, a concerned Sandgate resident responsibly had noted a small unattended sailing catamaran drifting inshore near Doug's
4
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February/March 2012
Seafood Restaurant. It had been sighted 30 minutes prior and on close investigation the vessel was hauled closer inshore and the carelessly lowered sail carried a number which was noted and provided by the caller. No sailing crew were visible in the water or elsewhere. Papa's attempts to contact local police stations were not successful although the Water Police advised there could be person/s lost from the catamaran. When the Papa Crew skipper investigated by car and a police car cruised up, two persons were observed boarding the craft before sailing away. Shortly after, a catamaran with the earlier advised sail number came down the creek to the Baxter Jetty ramp. The police phoned to advise that the catamaran crew had stopped at Sandgate for a pit stop before returning to their vessel. The member of the public was thanked for his assistance - and commented on the unusual length of 'pit-stop' time! Conscious of Christmas week and people's related obligations, Energex Sandgate 1 was recovered to its shed and refuelled to assist the Tuesday Crew. On Christmas Eve, the only boat logged on was Joe McCoy doing sea trials on McCoy's Toy before the new owner took it to Nelson Bay. Volunteers manned the base on Christmas Day. It didn't look at all promising with the dregs of a cyclone hovering off the coast and all Coast beaches closed. However, it wasn't boating traffic that called VMRB but a medivac to Tangalooma. Joe manned the radio while two paramedics accompanied Volunteers David and George in the very rough conditions as they retrieved a man who had been hit with a steel beam and was in a neck brace. One rogue wave knocked the Energex Sandgate 1 crew for six. The poor injured man suffered from seasickness which made the trip home seem even longer than the 8 knots the conditions allowed. The patient and one paramedic were dropped at Redcliffe while Energex Sandgate 1 brought the other paramedic to retrieve her ambulance. She had never been to Tangalooma before; incredible conditions to see it for the first time! The afternoon volunteers had a much quieter time. Boxing Day was less exciting. The day started as it ended with only 1 boat willing to venture out into the bay. Radio traffic was low and the wind was high. th Sierra Crew had a very busy duty day on 27 December. "In the morning the Crew went on a navigation / local area knowledge training exercise off Redcliffe Jetty. About an hour after departing Base, we received a request to assist a stricken sailing vessel near the Four Beacons just south west of Tangalooma. In calm seas, the Crew set a course from Redcliffe to the Four Beacons. About two nautical miles from Four Beacons we received a Water Police request to assist with a Medivac from Tangalooma. The patient was in a serious condition and required a Paramedic for the journey from Tangalooma to Shorncliffe. The Crew had no choice but to defer the original callout and return to Base to pick up the Paramedics. As Energex Sandgate 1 entered Cabbage Tree Creek, the Paramedics arrived. After a quick turn around, the Crew were back on their way to Tangalooma. In the meantime we sought the assistance of Coastguard Brisbane to look after the stricken sailing vessel. After about 4 hours from their original departure, Sierra Crew returned to Base with a thankful patient and Paramedics. Coastguard Brisbane soon followed with the sailing vessel in tow.” (Cont’d page 8)
BOAT TALK
VMR, BRISBANE
Training News Two persons undertook their assessment for MH12 07B Plan and Navigate a Short Voyage Within Inshore Waters in mid-January and the new assessment paper was used. Persons who have completed their Fire Training and the Life raft drills and swim tests still have to complete their ESS Assignment and complete the remaining practicals. Both of these documents are in the Radio Room in suitably marked folders. The Assignment should be completed on your crew day and the member needs to be on board the vessel to complete the assignment. Those who have completed the fire and life raft/swim tests still need to complete the remainder of the practical assessment which includes the sections, Group Discussion and Questioning, While On Board a Commercial Vessel, the top section of page 3 and the last section on page 5. This assessment can only be done by the UTC and has to be arranged for a suitable time. Members are strongly urged to read the Training Folder in the Radio Room as it contains the procedures for the completion of subjects. Members should also liaise with their duty masters. Further ESS training will be conducted towards the end of February and early March 2012. Duty Masters are asked to ensure that members who have not completed this training do so at the next course. While on the subject of ESS training, it should be noted that a person CANNOT be a crew member on a squadron vessel if they have been in the squadron more than 6 months and HAVE NOT completed the ESS course. A direction has recently been received from MSQ regarding this and VMRAQ have directed that this is to occur. If a person wishes to be a Radio Operator only and not go on a VMRAQ vessel then they do not have to complete the ESS module. However all Radio Operators must hold the following qualifications: 1.Acurrent Marine Radio Operators Certificate of Proficiency 2.Acurrent Senior FirstAid certificate 3. Local knowledge – A comprehensive understanding of the squadron area of operations. A VMRAQ certificate is issued on successful completion of this subject. Members should note that 3 above is a requirement for all members and should be obtained before they operate a vessel in the squadron area of operations. It should also be noted that this subject does not carry over from squadron to squadron and the qualification must be obtained for each area. The local knowledge subject is in the process of being revamped. To obtain the qualification MF1 07B Assist in Search and Rescue Operations, a member must attend the Theory Training, pass the written assessment and undertake a SAREX in which they operate as vessel master, navigator and radio operator with the Duty master on the vessel submitting a confirmation report regarding the above. In order for the Squadron to increase its number of Coxswains (VMRAQ level ONLY) an intense training course over the months of March, May, June and July 2012 will be conducted. The members attending will be nominated by management and must be Competent Crew (2 stripes), or nearly Competent Crew (must have completed some subjects or part subjects in the Competent Crew and Coxswain module). There will only be a maximum of 10 persons on the course. It is strongly recommended that ALL members liaise with their Duty Master regarding their training and all crews are urged to discuss their training requirements when on duty.
VMR, BRISBANE
UTC, PETER LEECH th
The first half of the year First Aid Training will take place on Sunday 4 March. If you are normally a participant at this time of the year, then you will be required to attend to maintain your current qualifications. A list of what you are required to do will be in the Courses Offered folder in the Radio Room. If you have not attended before and wish to obtain this qualification, please enter your name on the Courses Offered form for FirstAid in the Radio Room. The Elements of Sea Safety Course will be held as follows: Theory Training - Thursday 1st March TheAssignment for this subject will be handed out on this night. Swim and Life Raft - Sunday 11th March All participants SHOULD read the practical assessment for this exercise which is in the Training Folder in the Radio Room. Flares and Fire Fighting - Sunday 15th April For the flares and fire fighting, long trousers and long sleeve shirts are required as well as sunglasses and a protective glove. The following courses will also be held: Thursday 15th March. ME11 07A – Contribute to effective communications and teamwork on a coastal vessel. Theory training and handout of assignment. Thursday 12th April. MR54 07B – Carry out refuelling and fuel transfer operations. Theory training and theAssessment is on Thursday 26th April. Thursday 7th June. MC7 07C - Apply seamanship skills and techniques when operating a small vessel. Theory training and theAssessment is Saturday 23rd June. The training for MF1 07B Assist in Search and Rescue Operations, will be held in August and the training for this subject consists of Theory, Written Assessment and the participation in a SAREX. The Duty Master in charge of the vessel for the SAREX must certify in writing that the person competently undertook the duties of vessel master, navigator and radio operator during the SAREX for a member to gain this qualification. Safe Boating, Peter J Leech UTC VMR Brisbane
The answer to last month's question: The Safe Water mark may have a number of light flashes. Name the light flashes and indicate the aspects of the flash sequence. The light for a Safe Water mark is white and may flash Isophase (equal periods of light and dark) or Occulting (more light than dark) or Long Flash of 10 seconds or Morse Code A (short flash, dark, long flash).
BOAT TALK
This edition’s question: What is meant by the terms, NMSC and NSCV?
February/March 2012 - 5
December 4, 2011: Trailer Sailer 3rd Sunday Race, Handicap Results 1. Suzanne, Peter Croft & crew (2nd across the line) 2. Malibu, Greg Williamson & crew (1st across the line) 3. Grumpy, Ron Walker & crew (3rd across the line) December 11, 2011: 7th and 8th Heats of the Club Championship Race 7: 1. FAB, Ashley Smith &Adam Kingston 2. Fifty/Fifty, Ron Godwin & Ken Godwin 3. Corang, Lindsay Gilbert & Luke Botteril 4. Grumpy Old Men, Peter Croft & crew DNF. Ghost Magic, Ron Walker & Karen Jaques Race 8: 1. FAB 4. Fifty/Fifty
2. Corang 3. Grumpy Old Men DNS. Ghost Magic
December 18, 2011: Christmas Race Lucky Draw 1. Ghost Magic 2. Think Big, Bruce Wales & Richard Cunnold 3. Seamist, Amelia Brown,Andrew Bubenik & Chris Fox Across the Line 1. FAB, Ashley Smith &Adam Kingston 2. Grumpy Old Men 3. Ghost Magic 4. Patrick Kills Oysters, 'SharpieAllstars' 5. Think Big 6. Fifty/Fifty, Ron, Ken, Brittany & Daniel Godwin 7. Corang 8. Seamist Many thanks to the Race Committee for 2011, especially John Mitchell and Laurie Williamson. Also great appreciation to Graeme Dobson and others who brought food for the festive Christmas reception on the afternoon of December 18th. Merry Christmas and Happy New Year 2012 to all! All are invited at 7 pm for a 7.30 pm start, on the evening of Saturday 11th February, for a Cocktail Party with live entertainment at the Sandgate Yacht Club to celebrate the Inauguration Meeting for the Club, which was held on 14th February 1912. This is the first of the Celebrations to be held all year to celebrate the Centenary of the S.Y.C. (See more celebrations on page 8.) Best wishes as well to all the SYC sailors who made the trip to Perth for the 50th Australian Flying 15 Championships, sailed over the week of January 8th to 13th on the Swan River, and hosted by the South of Perth Yacht Club. Special kudos are due to Ashley Smith and Adam Kingston, who sailed AUS3972 Sake to a 12th place final finish, with a bullet in the final race on January 12th, as well as a 5th and an 8th place in a very tough fleet of 58 Flying 15s from all over Australia (and with notable visitors from the UK too). Other SYC competitors in the Open Championships included Ron Walker and Lindsay Gilbert inAUS3709 Roffi, achieving 45th place (with a top finish of 31st), and Brady Lowe with Aaron Hunt in AUS2676 Formula One, who finished 49th overall, with a top finish of 34th. Amelia Brown
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February/March 2012
A great time was had by all - the Australian Flying Fifteen Championships went off without a hitch except for waiting on the water for 3 hours on the Wednesday for the Fremantle Doctor to arrive at 4.30 pm and only one race was held that day due to The Stalwarts and Legends Dinner, which was due to commence at 6.30 pm, but was delayed and commenced at 7.30 pm. Therefore, 3 races were sailed on Thursday, with Ashley Smith and Adam Kingston (in Sake) winning the 7th heat. At the first windward mark, Ashley was second, with Ron Walker and Lindsay Gilbert rounding third. The first three boats then found a 30 degree shift in the Northeast breeze. The Fremantle Doctor blew 20 knots for the Invitation race, and 16 knots for the first day of racing for the first and second heats. The remainder of the racing, except for Wednesday, was sailed in land breezes - influenced by a cyclone which crossed the coast up in the North of Western Australia. There were 8 heats sailed for the Championship, with 6 different winners, plus an Invitation Race which was won byAlan Bax. The Stalwarts and Legends Dinner was a great night, including interviews with Bill Shand, Roy Windebank and 5 Former world Champions - namely John Cassidy (the First World Champion in 1979), Graham Lillingston, Alan Bax, Steve Goacher and Michael Hart (the last three were from the UK). In the final placings of the Championship, 1st was taken by Steve Goacher, with Alan Bax 2nd and Mike Hart 3rd. After every race there were two free beers per person, and a free sausage sizzle too - all made possible by a long list of generous sponsors. The hardstand area at South of Perth Yacht club is magnificent, with 3 cranes to lift boats into the water, plus a ramp. With a maximum tide of 2 feet, it is just an excellent place to sail, and when the Fremantle Doctor was blowing, the speeds on the spinnaker reaches were unbelievable. Ron Walker Ron Walker’s crew helping pack Grumpy up after racing
Commodore:
Vice Commodore: Rear Commodore: Secretary:
Treasurer:
BOAT TALK
3633 0152 0418 757 149 andrew@syc.org.au Laurie Williamson 3269 6052 John Mitchell 5484 1738 0429 387 441 3399 1586 Ron Walker 0407 251 413 ron@syc.org.au Graeme Dobson 3262 2269 0417 756 356 Andrew Pearson
VMR, BRISBANE
Who’s Who in the Zoo Contemplating the prospect of semi-retirement in 2006, I purchased a 5.35m YaltaCraft from a boatyard near Tin Can Bay. It turned out the owner was previously a member at VMR Sandgate before buying the YaltaCraft building business (George Groth) and recognising a very green mariner, he suggested that I would benefit by linking up with the squadron at Allpass Parade. So I became a member - and my first few months with Delta Crew confirmed that there was a little more to leisure boating on the bay than being equipped with a boat licence and a full fuel tank! I never did have the need to radio for assistance, thanks to the knowledge gained through VMRB training and experience and the wealth of information freely imparted by other members, predominantly sailors. We enjoyed many of the Bay's features, snorkelling the wrecks, picnicking on deserted beaches and fishing the shoals and artificial reefs. Rarely did we threaten the bay's marine species by catching fish! After three years of thorough enjoyment on Moreton Bay and the Brisbane River, we traded the boat for a caravan, intending an extended trip around the country.
GREG KEOUGH
Grandchildren and other distractions have foiled our getaway … perhaps 2013. Occasionally I get out on the water on MV's (mates' vessels), one of whom has just purchased a 34ft yacht and has intentions of installing me on the tiller – what is a tiller? I am still with Delta Crew, enjoying the work, the training and the company. At the last AGM I also took on the Membership Officer's position from Julie Young who has done a great job in that role for several years and deserved a break. The challenge ahead is to work with other Committee members to continue to attract new members and to retain and develop younger members who are the future of our club and squadron.
More from Kedron-Wavell Services Club As shown in a picture in the last issue of Boat Talk, Kedron-Wavell but still require support in order to continue doing their fantastic work in th Services Club gave away a whopping $100,000 on Wednesday, 9 the community. November as part of their popular Community Investment Grant Members and staff of Kedron-Wavell Services Club are very proud of Program. their Club's involvement in the community As a not-for-profit After receiving over 100 applications from the local community, the Club organisation, all surplus funds are invested back into the facilities and services provided for our members or donated to the community. awarded 53 of these financial grants. The Presentation Ceremony took place in the Community Centre at Terri Hewerdine th Kedron-Wavell Services Club on Wednesday, 9 November, where all Marketing Manager the successful applicants were in attendance to receive their cheques. Kedron-Wavell Services Club Inc Also in attendance were Brisbane City Councillors, Sterling Hinchcliffe and Fiona King, to congratulate the successors on the outcome. Bob and Neil at the function where they These successful applicants were from a wide variety of different local received $2,500 which bought computer organisations from children's charities to sporting groups to educational equipment for the Radio Room and Office programs. These smaller groups are often overlooked by other funding
VALE
Glenn, christening the dishwasher
VMR, BRISBANE
ROSS CAMERON SUGARS We were saddened to hear of the passing of our former President on 11th January, 2012 from prostate cancer. Ross was a long-time dedicated supporter of Scouting and held many roles including GL Nundah Northgate Group (to which his children belonged), DC Charles S Snow District, and Chairman Brisbane NorthArea. Ross was well known for being a strong believer in family values and community involvement so it was no surprise when he joined VMRB in 1998. Ross became the Master of Delta Crew at VMRB and our President from 2004 to 2007. He was involved in a number of activities within our unit, with one of the most widely appreciated being the replacement of the derelict pontoon with the sturdy new blue one. He worked hard to bring our affiliated and local groups together and negotiated with Brisbane Airport Corporation to replace Sandgate 2. The refurbishment of the radio room, initial revamp of the bar area, as well as long overdue painting of the main hall and replacement of the carpet was done under his supervision. Ross moved on to Bribie Island squadron in recent years and continued his willingness to help and encourage others there. Over 300 people, including representatives from our State and Zone Councils, VMR Bribie, VMR th Brisbane, Scouting Qld, and his employer (Russell Transport), attended Ross' funeral on Tuesday 17 January along with his family and many friends. Our sincere sympathy is extended to Ross' widow, Jenny, their children and grandchildren and his extended family.
BOAT TALK
February/March 2012 - 7
Report from Senior Vice-President BOB CHAPMAN Recently I had the opportunity to represent the Squadron for the dedication ceremony for the new patrol vessel of the Queensland Water Police, the G.J.Olive. The new vessel is approximately 11 metres in length of rigid inflatable performance and technology powered by three 300 H.P. Suzuki 4stroke: top speed 'sufficient'. The fit out inside is well thought out, practical and efficient. This boat continues the tradition of Police boats being named after a deceased member of the Service, with members of the deceased Officer's family being present. Take the opportunity to have a look if you can and be suitably impressed. Times are changing at the club. We now are proud owners of a new ride on mower which lowers the "heart attack threshhold” of the ageing members of the club who , Summer and Winter, mow and tidy the club's yards. What took two Tuesdays to do is now done in one. This frees up time to enable us to proceed on outstanding tasks, such as: (1) Replace the docking area of the pontoon to reduce falling risk. This will be done as weather and tides permit. (2) A new cable has been fitted to the slipway winch due to the previous one breaking well before its use-by date.
(3) The slipway upstream stop is in need of repair and it is envisaged this will take place during the daytime low tides in early February. (4) Quotes are being obtained for the repair of the Radio Room verandah and the stairs to the kitchen. (5) The ramp will continue to be cleaned on a regular basis which should improve the safety aspect during its use by all club members. On a technical note, we have installed a 'FLIR' system on Energex Energex Sandgate 1. Basically the unit uses infrared to detect temperature variances in what it views and projects a video-type display on our chart-plotters. In reality nighttime becomes as good as day - just different colours. In closing, I would mention to all our members who are not "rescue crew", if you would like to come on a Tuesday morning you would be most welcome. Regards Bob Chapman, Senior Vice President
Sandgate Yacht Club Centenary Celebrations The First Centenary Celebration Event for Sandgate Yacht Club will be held on Saturday 11th February 2012 and will be a Cocktail Party at Volunteer Marine Rescue / Sandgate Yacht Club House commencing at 6-30 p.m. / 7-00 p.m. The cost will be $25-00 a head. Please R.S.V.P. to me by 4th February 2012 so we know numbers for catering purposes. I would appreciate if you would let as many former members of SYC know as possible of this event as this celebrates the inaugural meeting held on 14th February 1912 to form the Club. For the second event we will be hosting a three day Regatta for th Modern 18 Footers at Easter from Friday 6 April-2012 to Sunday 8th April 2012 to celebrate the "Grand Opening Carnival" held on 13th April 1912. The boats will rig near the Sandgate pier in conjunction with the "Blue Water Festival" and start races just off the Pier. The third event will be Opening Day Weekend to be held on 8th and 9th September 2012. It is intended to have a static display of as many sailing classes of boats which have sailed at Sandgate with an Old
and Modern which are still sailing beside each other. Permission has been obtained from the Maritime Musuem to display Linton Hope Rater Miss Sandgate as a static display so it will be transported to Sandgate for the weekend. It is planned to have a wooden sailing boat race after the Blessing of the Fleet with the start at the pontoon. There will be an historic display of memorabilia items upstairs in the Club house all weekend. The Wooden Boat Association has been invited to participate in the Sail Past. The fourth event will be a "Centenary Regatta" on the weekend of 20th and 21st October 2012 to celebrate the First Race held on 19th October 1912. An invitation will be issued to all classes to sail in this Regatta. Regards Ron Walker Phone: 3399-1586 (H) Email: ghost_magic@bigpond.com
Crews News (cont’d from page 4)
“No sooner had we cleaned up after lunch than we received a call to assist a 25' Bay Cruiser with engine trouble anchored off Mud Island. As we set off storm clouds were evident so we hoped to get to the disabled vessel before the storm arrived. Just as we arrived, Mother Nature released her fury on us making securing the tow rope to the vessel very difficult. Once under tow we spent about an hour in following seas that gave the crew in the Bay Cruiser quite a ride. Delta crew spent their next crew day training, as no jobs were received for the watch. The training activities included rope work, helming, and a Man Overboard drill, together with local knowledge and navigation exercises. Instruction was also given in the operation of the new forward looking infrared equipment (FLIR), on Energex Sandgate 1. On January 8th,November Crew welcomed Richard Miles to their crew and started the day with a vessel familiarisation and navigation run to Clontarf boat harbour. The breeze picked up as predicted after lunch so many of the vessels logged on with the radio room returned to the creek
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early. Some of the crew required practice in anchoring for their Task Book, so the afternoon saw some vessel anchoring training and vessel manoeuvring/docking training carried out. It was a quiet day on the activations front but a good day of quality training for the crew. The forecast for Sierra Crew's January duty day was poor and the boating public heeded the weather warnings. “Whilst readying Sandgate 2 for a training run, we received a request for assistance from a disabled vessel anchored in Cabbage Tree Creek. Before we could commence the rescue, we were asked to assist a Kayaker who had capsized his kayak near the QCYC berths. The sloppy sea state in the Creek made it impossible for the Kayaker to right his vessel. The Kayaker was quickly located and he and his vessel were soon safe and sound.” “We then went to the assistance of the broken down vessel (5m half cabin powered vessel) and this tow was soon completed with the occupants and vessel returned to the Cabbage Tree Creek public boat ramp.”
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“VMR Rescue Sea Kayaker - Prior Training of High Value” Imagine this as a headline in the Courier Mail. While we all hope it may not occur, knowing what to do in such a circumstance prior to the event is always a better plan. So it was on December 17, a sunny but quite windy day at Queens Beach North near Scarborough, when 21 sea kayakers arrived to have a morning of advanced rescue training. Briefing by Selwyn Gray noted we had four teams each led by an experienced kayaker or instructor. Topics on the day included CPR awareness, wet exits but with a delay to stay under your kayak to begin with, T–rescue by two methods, and also a scoop method – very wet but it works. Also trialled was whether or not CPR could realistically be undertaken in the water of a disabled paddler – not so good news on this front for the disabled person but at least “volunteer” Richard was able to be placed across three sea kayaks and supported out of the water. To add to the day, Bravo Crew on Energex Sandgate also attended to understand how they might rescue a disabled sea kayaker who was unable to assist getting on board. In addition, towing of a sea kayak by the VMRB boat was also trialled with a great degree of success thanks to a small towing harness that was designed by Phil Woodhouse – worked a treat to the point more are going to be made. The wind and in-bound tide on the day made conditions more real, however still safe given the relative proximity to the shore, and also roving supervising roles planned as part of the day. While this was essentially the last club paddle of the year, it was probably the best attended which reflected the agenda for the day and value of people wanting to know more about emergency conditions so
the above heading can be avoided. Barry Renaud (See photo on back page of kayak being towed by.Energex Sandgate 1.) General Paddle information ' There is always a paddle at Yundah St on Saturdays starting at 8am and Tuesdays at 9am. ( Nominate leader on day) ' There may be a paddle at Yundah St on Sundays starting at 9am. (See John Blackley) ' In June, July, and August there may be an alternative paddle at Yundah St on Saturdays starting at 9am (See John Blackley) ' All Distances are return. ' All paddles are for everyone subject to self assessment in accordance with the club paddle grading system.
Meetings: Management Committee - 1st Saturday at 10.30 a.m. Sub-Committee - 3rd Wednesday alternate months at 7.00pm General Meetings - at 11.00am on the first Saturday in March, June (AGM), September, November
Club President email: Club Secretary email: Club email: Web page: Newsletter email:
sccpresident2010@hotmail.com suegollagher@gmail.com sandgate@canoe.org.au www.sandgate.canoe.org.au sandgatecanoeclub@gmail.com
Lionfish Dive Group Club Nights Second Tuesday of the month at 6.30pm at VMR
Club committee meetings Last Wednesday of the month at 6.30pm. venue to be arranged
Club Contacts Steve Dobson - Ocean Cat Trips 3203.2479 - email: steve.dive@hotmail.com Katherine Harding - general enquiries 0408 789707 - email: lionfish.secretary@gmail.com
Treasurer’s Report (with his Webmaster hat on as well) Welcome to a new calendar year. This year we will be working on finalising some of the forecast jobs that we budgeted for. The new computer system should be organised within the next month and this will allow us to work smarter rather than harder. It will allow remote access for the purpose of accounts production and payments to be processed faster and easier at membership renewal time. All accounts will be posted by the end of May with the accounts due by 30th June. If not paid by this time, your entry to the grounds may be suspended till payment is received. We will have four ways in place to pay these renewals. These will be located at the bottom of your invoice. They will be Post billpay, Direct Debit, BPAY and Credit card by phone.All of these will mean that you will
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GLENN PHILIP
be able to pay the renewal outside the base. Please note these will be the only forms that will be accepted although cash can be paid at the post office. WEBSITE We are in the process of redesigning/upgrading the website and will hopefully have it uploaded within the next few months. Keep checking our website (www.vmrsandgate.net.au) for new announcements and upcoming events. As we place new information, please watch out for the emails and texts that we send.
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Christmas Party
4th December, 2011 Santa’s on his way...
Bill starting the barbecue Graham Makin taking Jessica Sauer for a spin Now he’s arrived!
Brandon Palmer, Grace Weber, Kaitlyn Palmer and Sarah Weber were happy to see Santa Will Clark (alias the elf) enjoyed himself
The children kept Thomas and the snowcone machine busy
It was a lovely sunny day and Santa came by boat to the VMRB Base with all the children’s eyes happily upon him. Thomas brought the ‘bucking’ surfboard and Snowcone machines and Graham helped so many children enjoy his quad bike. The team of Rae and Bill Hirn with Jenny and David Davis helped make the barbecue and the afternoon a great success.
Bubbles kept the Arnold grandchildren happy
Brandon was first on the mechanical surfboard
The Ivins family having a day out
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The toys weren’t just for the kids: ask Deidre and Troy
It’s all so exciting!
Jenny and Rae working hard
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Alpha Crew’s Dinner
20th January, 2012 This is where the evening began
‘Australia Deidre’ won the raffle
Alpha Crew
Gee Skelton with 2nd prize
Robyn Duffield with life’s essentials
Narelle Hillyard (above) and Jane Hillyard (right) keeping the family winning tradition going
You can count on Karl Nast to win the serious prizes
Alpha Crew kicked off VMRB's year of monthly dinners with a good old Aussie barbecue, lots of national flags and Australian folk songs quietly playing. About 60 people enjoyed the tender meats, onions and salads followed by a selection of gorgeous slices and delicious fruit salad. Main course had just finished when a call out was received from the police so Energex Sandgate 1 was quickly extracted from its shed and David Davis, Chris Hillyard and Neil Sheppard disappeared into the dark and windy night. After being won in November, our Goose Club started with $50 but Richard Barge wasn't there to collect. However Karl Nast is probably still happily scratching the board of potential gold mines he won. The lucky door prize was donated by Jan McCoy and won by Narelle Hillyard. Jane Hillyard kept it in the family by winning a $50 gift voucher for being one of the RSVP crowd. nd Deidre Windham won first prize in the raffle, with Gee Skelton taking 2 and Jenny Davis winning third prize. It was a very pleasant evening with th another one planned for 24 February so come along and join in.
Behind every great crew are even greater ladies!
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Jenny Davis with her 3rd prize
Enjoy a social evening on Friday, 24th February, 2012 at our dinner evening hosted by Papa Crew from 7pm at $12.50 a head. Bring your family and friends! Members’ Draw is up to $100
February/March 2012 - 11
War comes to the Brisbane sea approaches, March 1943: via the IJN submarine I-6
Submitted by Arthur Powell
The Sea Lords of the Imperial Japanese Navy, now on the defensive and striving to hold their bloody gains, decided in late 1942 to harass Queensland coastal shipping using submarines to attack targets of opportunity and mine selected approaches, particularly the sea approach to Moreton Bay and Brisbane River port where the US Navy had established a large submarine base. (These submarines were relentlessly destroying the Japanese merchant marine which supplied the Imperial Japanese Army's garrisons.) Brisbane was correctly perceived to be a vital staging post for sea support of the Allied forces in New Guinea where the infantry and marines of the IJA and IJN were hard-pressed by Allied forces in late 1942 and early 1943. Defeat along the Kokoda Track was followed by a bitter Allied victory on the beach-head at Gona Buna and Sanananda in January 1943. The occasion was the disarray of the IJN's grand plan to attack south, deflecting the Americans from Australia, after the signal defeat of the Imperial JapaneseArmy at Guadalcanal (August 1942) by a combined Allied fleet, the US Marines particularly, and the US Army; and the impending annihilation of the Jap South Seas Landing Force at Buna Gona and Sanananda Point, on the Papua north coast, by 3 brigades of the Australian Imperial Force (AIF 6th and 7th Divisions), and three regiments of the USArmy 32nd Division. Therefore the receipt in August 1942 of a few of the latest German 'TMB' acoustic and magnetic sea mines, designed for submarine deployment, and being more effective than the older contact type that they possessed, provided new inspiration for the desperate IJN. The Nazi gangsters ordered the Kriegsmarine, as a goodwill gesture to their Axis ally, to deliver a token 65 mines to Yokohama using the Doggerbank, a captured British submarine, converted for transport and resupply work, which had broken through the Royal Navy's blockade of Germany in the North Sea. If few mines were available, fewer submarines were available to the IJN for offensive operations. However the submarine I-6, a large scouting submarine displacing 3,000 tons (submerged) (with small float aeroplane on board, similar to those which had launched midget subs against Sydney Harbour on 31 May 1942) was loaded with 9 German mine weapons and forward torpedo tube launching device and, after training under command of Lt-Cdr Monshiro Izutsu, was ordered south, via the major IJN base at Truk atoll and the forward base at Rabaul, to create havoc and alarm in the Brisbane sea approaches. The I-6 carried only 17 torpedoes, a larger magazine having to give considerable space to the TMB mines and their tube ejection apparatus.
The IJN Submarine I-6
Arriving off Caloundra on 11 March 1943, Izutsu, on guard against patrolling aircraft, sighted a large ship and fired 2 torpedoes from a submerged position, at long range, without effect. There was no Allied report of an attack on a ship at this time so it seems the torpedo tracks
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were not sighted by the ship crew. From Izutsu's description this may have been a Liberty ship. On 13 March the sub commander, after some reconnaissance, considered where to sow the deadly undersea weapons. But, not having detailed naval intelligence of the shipping lanes, he was at a disadvantage. Izutsu ejected the mines through the forward torpedo tubes stringing them in a 2000 metre line across a supposed shipping lane; but this proved to be in waters not usually used by ships. He surfaced the I-6 at night and radioed his actions to Truk atoll base in the Carolines giving the mine location by code word (for example, Point X-ray). The mines were discovered, a short time later, to be about 8 miles offshore between Point Cartwright and Caloundra Head, about half way between, but slightly closer to Caloundra Head. The depth of water is between the 30 and 40 metre seabed contour lines. While US Fleet Radio Intelligence in Melbourne decoded the sub's radio reports to Truk (after receiving the coded radio intercepts recorded at Hamilton (Brisbane) radio listening station, which were then sent by cable to the Melbourne decoding centre by punch tape), the exact location of the mines was not decoded, probably because Izutsu used a separate unbreakable code word for the position. Furthermore, fixing the sub's position at the time of its brief radio transmission by using radio direction finding methods (triangulation) proved unsuccessful; an unreliable position was calculated within a 500 sea-mile circle, therefore virtually useless. All that was known to US Navy Fleet Radio Intelligence was that a Jap submarine had placed 9 sea mines perhaps on the east coast (this much was decoded). US Fleet Radio Intelligence warned Brisbane of the possible presence of an enemy vessel and mines. The alarmed Naval Officer in Command in Brisbane ordered increased RAAF anti-submarine air patrols. These were a major part of RAAF home-front coastal duties, using Anson Hudson and Beaufort aircraft, all twin-engined and usually carrying two or more 250 kilogram anti-submarine bombs. This paid dividends, (see below). Fort Caloundra shore battery headquarters was alerted; it controlled seven 6 inch guns at Bribie Island, and Cowan Cowan and Rouse beach on Moreton Island capable of projecting armour-piercing shell to 18,000 yards seawards. The German TMB sea mine was a sophisticated deadly and effective weapon for stoving-in ships’ hulls by explosive blast amplified by the downward force of the explosion reflecting upwards from the seabed where it rested (similar to the upward force of an atomic bomb blast detonated at ground level). The smooth aluminium-cased weapon measured 2.3 metres long, of cylindrical shape with a diameter about 58 centimetres. The shape meant that it might not sit still on the seabed, being capable of rolling if laid on sloping smooth ground. It normally rested on the seabed in its armed state (it was not a buoyant chain-anchored contact or horned mine). The noise or magnetic changes of a ship passing over it would fuse the weapon (also called a ground-influenced mine, blasting upwards with tremendous hydraulic force), firing its magnetic pistol, thus setting off its explosive charge of 554 kilograms (a complex nitrate-based explosive used in German (Cont’d page 13) mines).
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War - close to Brisbane: March 1943 (Cont’d) from page 14)
The Kriegsmarine strategy in the North Sea and around British ports was to sow mines in hundreds in shipping channels which gave a high chance of sinking or damaging a ship. Izutsu had little chance with his small cache of mines. Although forced to remain submerged in daylight by aggressive RAAF air patrols, the I-6 kept to her patrol off Moreton and Caloundra looking for suitable targets. On 17 March just north of Point Cartwright the I-6, submerged in daylight, fired torpedoes, at long range, at a convoy of two 10,000-ton Liberty ships steaming north, the SS Charles C Jones and SS Joseph Holt escorted by the corvette mine sweeper HMAS Gympie in the vanguard. The sub was sighted and bombed by an RAAF Avro Anson from Amberley which chanced on the scene; but no damage was done to friend or foe, even though the Gympie joined the hunt for a time and the excited deck-gun crews on the Liberty ships opened fire without sighting the sub to alert the Gympie; they had been alarmed by the torpedo wakes passing by, both large ships turning to avoid the torpedoes. By chance, a few days later, on 24 March, HMAS Swan, a sloop-of-war, found the mines. She was exercising off Caloundra Head firing her high-angle anti-aircraft weapons at an aerial target being towed by an RAAF Lockheed Hudson bomber. The spent and falling AA shells, as they penetrated the water, detonated the mines. Two massive eruptions from the sea, close aboard, blew tons of water about 400 feet high and 130 feet at the base, judged by the Swan's commander to be two but perhaps 4 mines exploding.
Head. The fusing mechanisms are probably harmless after being submerged for so long, but the explosive charge may still present danger if disturbed. - adapted from the Defence Force Journal, Issue 102, Sep/Oct 1993, essay entitled 'The War Cruise of I-6, March 1943' by Lt Cdr DM Stevens RAN (used by permission of publisher). Submitted by Arthur Powell Note: It has been reported that on July 19th 1944, U.S. destroyer escort William C. Miller (DE-259) sank the Japanese K6 type submarine RO48, 75 miles east of Saipan. Together with high speed transport Gilmer (APD-11) she also sank the Japanese J2 type submarine I-6, 70 miles west of Tinian, 15°18´N, 144°26´E. However, another report states Submarine I-6 went missing on 30 June 1944 off Saipan, likely a victim of friendly fire following a collision with Toyokawa Maru. Yet another official report states the following: "On 16 June 1944 at 2233, (a freighter) TOYOKAWA MARU sights a submarine surfacing near the convoy.Asubmarine alert is given. TOYOKAWAMARU makes a sharp turn and rams the submarine's starboard side slightly abaft the conning tower. The submarine takes on a heavy list, turns turtle and sinks in a few minutes. TOYOKAWA MARU opens fire with machine guns and drops some depth charges. There are no survivors of I-6's crew of 104." http://www.wrecksite.eu/wreck.aspx?57873.
HMAS Gympie
The mine sweeper corvette HMAS Gympie was ordered back to the area and succeeded in detonating one more mine with her special electronic/magnetic sweep gear after many days sweeping. If 5 mines had now been accounted for at least 4 remained. But further exhaustive sweeps by USN mine sweepers, lasting many days, failed to find any more. Meanwhile the I-6 had been recalled to Rabaul to assist with transport support for the Jap garrison at Lae, New Guinea, where the AIF was investing the Japanese position in a savage new battle. However her war diary shows that Izutsu claimed to have sunk 2 vessels on the Australian coast during her war cruise. Conclusion: The laying of so few mines and their placement without adequate intelligence or finding the shipping lanes was unlikely to destroy ships. However the IJN's limited success can be measured in the significant effect of diverting valuable Allied naval and air resources in searching for mines and patrolling rather than escort and other aggressive purposes. Possibly 4 sea mines still lie on the seabed a few miles off Caloundra
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These maps show just how close the action was to Brisbane.
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Crew Qualifications and Epaulettes In line with these updates, refer to page 18 for the VMRB Crew Lists and the updated Qualifications Legend.
The Uniform We Wear
VMR Uniform Epaulettes New Member having completed Induction and SOPs
The word uniform means just that – uniform or the same! All crew members are required to wear the standard dress and we have a new dress policy – standard for all. The September State Meeting endorsed the new policy on a standard uniform. This now means that the wide variety of older uniforms, ranks and associated epaulettes will go as we settle on one well defined uniform. Principally, the current uniform remains the same but with changes in rank and associated epaulette sleeves in line with the TDM07 Training. The standard uniform: Cap with VMRAQ logo, light blue short sleeve shirt with epaulettes and two pockets. When on work duty, the standard cap may be substituted with a rag hat displaying the VMRAQ logo. Likewise where there is a risk of sun damage, long sleeve shirts may be worn. Navy shorts with black belt, short white socks and deck or gym shoes with white soles to avoid 'gel coat' damage. Shoes must protect the feet. VMRAQ shirt sleeve badges are located 40 mm down and central to the epaulette. Name badges are provided. For lady crew members, a choice is made for tucking-in VMR shirt/blouse or wear one fitted with a waist band together with navy skirt/slacks, etc.
Clean slide (Trainee) Crew having completed the above plus Elements of Shipboard Safety Certificate 1 1 Stripe
Crew having completed the above plus Elements for Crew Certificate 1 2 Stripes VMRAQ Coxswain having completed the above plus elements for VMRAQ Coxswain Certificate II 3 Stripes Senior VMRAQ Coxswain having completed all elements of VMRAQ Coxswain Certificate II. Appointed by Management 3 Stripes + Anchor Duty Master, same conditions as above and same epaulette plus Rank on Name Badge
Radio Operator: Required to hold both a MROCP and First Aid Certificate and competent in practice including Local Knowledge. 1 Stripe + Lightning Bolt
Senior MSQ Commercial Coxswain having completed all elements for VMRAQ Coxswain + Commercial Coxswain Certificate II. Appointed by Management 4 Stripes + Anchor
‘Senior’ means...
Now, What Do Crews Do?
Recently Harry Hubner, Secretary Manager of Marine Rescue Assoc Qld Inc. (that’s our parent body), released a statement explaining that the meaning of the anchor on the epaulettes denotes ‘Senior’. VMRAQ currently has four Senior Positions although it is up to each Squadron how many positions their Management appoints. The possibilities are: 1. Senior Radio Operator 2. Senior Crew 3. Senior VMRAQ Coxswain 4. Senior MSQ Coxswain “The only other position that displays an anchor is that of Duty Officer; but to attain that position, the prerequisite is that the person must have attained as a minimum VMRAQ Coxswain.” “All Squadrons have written guidelines setting out the criteria to be met to be appointed to a Senior position. It needs to be made quite clear that “Senior” is NOT a rank, it is an appointment by Management and is generally based on Experience and Leadership Skills and is relevant only to the four ranks as shown above.”
Crews all know who you are, but I need to know what you did on your duty days. Something of major importance is the completion of Form 4s detailing all boating outings. These are used to provide records such as sea time for the crew involved, as well as detail for the Activations section of Boat Talk. The form must be completed fully so we know size and type of vessel recovered, number of people on board, where it was found, to where it was towed as well as your training activity. In addition, we have obligations to publicise what we do with reports to Energex, and our local newspapers, as well as a quarterly report to VMRAQ, and our own Crews’ News in Boat Talk. This has the potential to increase awareness of our SAR capability and also our membership. Unfortunately I’m not a mind reader equipped with a crystal ball so, unless you tell me, I don’t know what you’ve been up to. At the end of each Crew day, someone must volunteer (or be nominated) to send a report of the day’s activities to editor@vmrsandgate.net.au or phone Deidre on 0419 766687. Even if you haven’t done any rescues, let her know what training activities were undertaken throughout the day. Taking photos on the Club camera provides additional editorial material and perhaps front cover stardom (like Sierra Crew this issue).
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VMRB Duty Roster for 2012
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February/March 2012 - 15
Thanks to “4017 Bar and Grill” Having won a voucher for $50 kindly donated by the new establishment, 4017 Bar and Grill at Sandgate, Joy and I decided to take advantage of this for lunch on one of my recent rostered days off. I'm no restaurant connoisseur, but here's my rating and comments : When booking per phone, it was found that the restaurant had since changed hands, however when told we were with a local community group, the owner / manager agreed to still honour the voucher. Good for public relations: 10 Customer service upon arrival: Very good 10 Ambience : Clean and tidy, well laid out so as not to be crowded on top of each other: 10 Table service : Meals explained, not pushy, meals served within 15 minutes, well presented, delicious and competitively priced. We chose the Fisherman’s Basket at $19.50 each which was a good assortment of seafood, ample for 1 person: 10
From memory, the dearest meal was about $35 forAngus steak. Bar service: Good, although when I asked for a “fruity wine” the lady was unsure, but at least made the effort to assist by pouring a little to try rather than just guessing: 9 Overall, we thoroughly enjoyed the meal and were impressed by the Customer Service. Although the business has changed hands, I'm sure they will continue to support our squadron and I would encourage members to support them. David Massam 4017 Bar and Grill
1 Bowser Parade, Sandgate 4017 Phone: 3269 6434 Joy and David when they won their voucher
New Zealand Ahoy Nino and Angie Aceto recently enjoyed a 14 day cruise around New Zealand on board the Sun Princess. The captain, an Englishman, didn’t know there was such a thing as Volunteer Marine Rescue in the Moreton Bay area - although he does now! At right is Captain Goodway’s letter to Nino and, indeed, you can see they did meet. Not only that, but Nino and Angie discovered fellow VMRB club members, Ron and Daphne Hawkanson were on the same cruise.
Angie, Daphne, Nino and Ron
More Travel Destinations...? I've been in Flexible, but only when it was very important to stand firm. I have been in many places, but I've never been in Cahoots. Apparently, you can't go alone. You have to be in Cahoots with someone. I've also never been in Cognito. I hear no one recognizes you there. I have, however, been in Sane. They don't have an airport; you have to be driven there. I have made several trips there, thanks to my friends, family and work. I would like to go to Conclusions, but you have to jump, and I'm not too much on physical activity anymore. I have also been in Doubt. That is a sad place to go, and I try not to visit there too often. Sometimes I'm in Capable, and I go there more often as I'm getting older. One of my favourite places to be is in Suspense! It really gets the adrenalin flowing and pumps up the old heart! At my age I need all the stimuli I can get! But one place I don't ever want to be is in Continent.
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Birthdays
TIDE TIMES TIMES TIDE AUSTRALIA, EAST COAST – BRISBANE BAR
The Talking Centipede A single guy decided life would be more fun if he had a pet. So he went to the pet store and told the owner that he wanted to buy an unusual pet. After some discussion, he finally bought a talking centipede (you know, a 100-legged bug), which came in a little white box to use for his house. He took the box back home, found a good spot for the box and decided he would start off by taking his new pet to church with him. So he asked the centipede in the box, "Would you like to go to church with me today? We will have a good time.” But there was no answer from his new pet. This bothered him a bit, but he waited a few minutes and then asked again, "How about going to church with me and receive blessings?' But again, there was no answer from his new friend and pet. So he waited a few minutes more, thinking about the situation. The guy decided to invite the centipede one last time. This time he put his face up against the centipede's house and shouted: "Hey in there! Would you like to go TO CHURCH WITH ME and learn about God?" This time a little voice came out of the box, "I heard you the first time! I'm putting my shoes on!"
LAT 27º 22' S
LONG 153º 10’E
©Copyright Commonwealth of Australia 2010 Bureau of Meteorology Datum of Predictions is lowest Astronomical Tide
Moon Symbols:
Our own base is a great place to celebrate birthdays and other functions. There is a stage, large room with wooden floor suitable for dancing, nice new kitchen, separate carpeted area and verandah. Licenced and manned by bar staff. (No BYO.) To hire upstairs for an evening the fees are: Members $142 (no bond) and Non-Members $320 with a $320 bond, with a non-negotiable cleaning fee of $250 for all.
2012 Time Zone - 1000
Times and Heights of High and Low Waters
Tide Times provided by courtesy of Maritime Safety Queensland. For more information, see the Official Tide Tables and Boating Safety Guide published by the Maritime Safety Queensland and the World Wide Web at http://www.msq.qld.gov.au/qldtides. The tidal predictions for the Brisbane Bar are supplied by the National Tidal Centre Bureau of Meteorology, copyright reserved.
My sincere apologies to members’ partners who missed out on their birthday greetings last month. The computer gremlin has been severely reprimanded and, in an admission of guilt, joins us in hoping you enjoyed your special day. In fact, he has joined the Management team in making an executive decision to cease printing birthdays. As our membership has increased, your editor has started to get agitated about the valuable space it has been taking up and this is her solution. Therefore we take this opportunity to wish all members and their families wonderful birthdays in 2012 and trust that they all celebrate many more pleasant years ahead.
New Moon
First Quarter
National Tidal Centre
Full Moon
Last Quarter
Tide times provided by courtesy of Maritime Safety Queensland. For more information, see the Official Queensland Tide Tables published by Maritime Safety Queensland and the World Wide Web at http://www.msq.qld.gov.au/Tides.aspx. The tidal predictions for Brisbane Bar are supplied by the National Tidal Centre, Bureau of Meteorology, copyright reserved.
ADVERTISING TERMS & CONDITIONS Advertising is available in this publication in the size and form as used on this page - approx 10cm x 5cm. Ads will be b&w placed as appropriate within the magazine on a monthly basis. Cost is $25 a month, paid in advance each June & December. One month’s notice is also required should a long-term ad be altered or withdrawn from publication. To arrange advertising or for further information, contact editor@vmrsandgate.net.au
For bookings and available dates, contact Tom Begbie 3269.8633. ALLSTATE BOAT LICENSING & TRAINING
VMR, BRISBANE
BOAT TALK
February/March 2012 - 17
Crew Lists and Qualifications This Roster is a living, working document, and as such will change from time to time, or details may be omitted or entered incorrectly. Should you find an error, please contact Karl Nast on 3886 5451to arrange for the correction.
LEGEND
New member (clean slide) Trainee Crew (1 stripe) Crew (2 stripes) VMRAQ Coxswain (3 stripes)
Senior VMRAQ Coxswain (3 stripes + Anchor) Duty Master (3 stripes + Anchor + Rank on Name Badge) Senior MSQ Coxswain (4 stripes + Anchor) R Available Days Radio Operator (1 stripe + Lightning Bolt)
¶ Available Nights
This page has been left blank intentionally.
Should you find yourself unable to carry out duty on your Crew’s rostered day, you are reminded that you are required to find - as soon as possible a replacement crew member for your duties from within this list, and advise your Duty Master of both your absence, and the name of your replacement.
NEARBY SQUADRONS
EMERGENCY NUMBERS Ambulance, Fire, Police 000 Mobile Phone Emergency No. 112 Poisons Information Centre 131 126 VMR Sandgate 3269 8888 A/H Emergency VMRB 0428 022 881 Water Police 3895 0333
18 -
February/March 2012
(Even if you have no credit or service) (Poisons, medicines, plants, bites & stings) Try radio first - Channels 88 or 91 VHF Channels 16 or 67
BOAT TALK
VMR Bribie Island VMR Raby Bay VMR Victoria Point VMR Stradbroke Island Coast Guard Redcliffe Coast Guard Manly
3408 7596 3821 2244 3207 8717 3409 9338 3203 5522 3396 5911
VMR, BRISBANE
T
= TRAINING
F/C =
FISHING & CRUISING
ALL ] = HHIRED
L = LICENCING A =ASSESSMENT
TUESDAY
MONDAY
WEDNESDAY
FEBRUARY 2011
THURSDAY
=
VMR FUNCTION
2
3
7
8
9
10
= SCHOOL HOLIDAYS
SUNDAY
4
L
Watch for BOAT TALK
6
HOLIDAY
SATURDAY
FRIDAY
1
= PUBLIC
5 Quebec Crew
Charlie Crew
11
L
12
L
SYC Cocktail Party SYC Sailing Foxtrot Crew November Crew
13
14 Lionfish Social
20
15
16
17
L
18
SCC Committee Meeting
21
22
23
24
25
28 Management Meeting
26
29 Lionfish Meeting
Only dates actually confirmed at time of printing are shown for this month. Further information can be obtained from members of the Management Team or are as displayed in the Radio room.
TUESDAY
MONDAY
L
SYC Sailing SYC Meeting Alpha Crew Sierra Crew
Papa Crew’s Dinner
27
19
SYC TS/KB Race Tango Crew Delta Crew
All dates are as provided by participating groups and members at time of production.
MARCH 2012
WEDNESDAY
THURSDAY
SATURDAY
FRIDAY
1
T
2
SUNDAY
3
L
4
T
SCC Gen Meeting
5
6
7
8
9
L
Bravo Crew
Papa Crew
10
11
Qld Flying Fifteen Championships Quebec Crew
Charlie Crew
12
13
14
T
15
16
17
SYC TS/KB Race Foxtrot Crew November Crew
Lionfish Social
19
20
21
22
27 Management Meeting
28
23
24 Delta Crew
Delta Crew’s Dinner
29
30
25
L
SYC Sailing
Deadline for BOAT TALK
SCC Committee Meeting
26
18
T
Tango Crew
31
L
Lionfish Meeting
Alpha Crew
Note: When scheduled meeting dates fall on public or school holidays they may be changed
SOCIAL DINNERS
DUTY CREW ROSTERS
Dinner on FEBRUARY 24TH will be hosted by Papa Crew: Valentine’s Day and MARCH 23RD will have Delta Crew as your hosts.
REGULAR MEETING DATES Selected Sundays after races (see above) SYC Meeting TBA 2nd Tuesday in Month Dive Group Social 3rd Wednesday in Month Canoe Club Management
6.30 pm 7.00 pm
(General Meetings 1st Saturdays in March, June, September & November at 11.00 am)
4th Tuesday in Month VMR Management Team
7.30 pm
DUTY MASTERS Alpha Crew Bravo Crew Charlie Crew Delta Crew Foxtrot Crew November Crew Papa Crew Quebec Crew Sierra Crew Tango Crew
Joe McCoy 3269.1255 Ian McCartney 3869 0916 Bill Hirn 3203 5865 Bob Chapman 3216 5521 Thomas Grice 3869 2825 David Davis 3269 7937 Nigel Turner 3264 3648 Ian Withers 0400 050446 Callum Baird 3869 1515 Karl Nast 3886 5451
Last Wednesday in Month Dive Group Committee 6.30 pm (Venues change .............. NOT at VMR)
VMR, BRISBANE
BOAT TALK
FEBRUARY 2012 4th Charlie 5th Quebec 11th Foxtrot 12th November 18th Delta 19th Tango 25th Alpha 26th Sierra
MARCH 2012 3rd Bravo 4th Papa 10th Charlie 11th Quebec 17th Foxtrot 18th November 24th Delta 25th Tango 31st Alpha
APRIL 2012 1st Sierra 6th Papa 7th Bravo 8th Quebec 9th November 14th Charlie 15th Tango 21st Foxtrot 22nd Sierra 25th Delta 28th Alpha 29th Quebec
February/March 2012 - 19
Round the Rigging Energex Sandgate 1 with Bravo Crew and organiser Phil Woodhouse christening the kayak towing harness
Nino Aceto at our Christmas Party Tim Kempton waiting for the cavalry
Joe McCoy with McCoy’s Toy before it went to Nelson’s Bay with its new owner
Ray Henery and his new pride and joy Alpha Crew readying Sandgate 2 for a day on the water
Larry Baker effecting his first rescue
The bar is always popular at our barbecues
Mr McCoy in his Christmas finery with David Davis and George Fisher The Christmas Day crew and the paramedics about to leave for a medivac from Tangalooma
Bob Chapman worked through the night on 14 Jan, busily recording positions of boats as they travelled seaward off Stradbroke and Moreton to enter the bay and finish the QCYC Surf to City Race at the front of Cabbage Tree Creek.
20 -
February/March 2012
BOAT TALK
VMR, BRISBANE