BOAT GOLD COAST MAGAZINE AUG - NOV 2020

BOATGOLDCOAST.COM.AU | AUG - NOV 2020

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AUG - NOV 2020

Early Bird Registrations are open for the Gold Coast's Largest Sailing Regatta!

Sail Paradise

The Bartercard is open to the full spectrum of offshore racing yachts – from the upper echelon of racing monohulls and multihulls through to cruisers and trailable yachts.

Sailors are encouraged to take advantage of the early bird race entry fee of ONLY $190, which includes FREE berthing or dry storage from January 3rd to 9th 2021.

Making it a very affordable stay on the Gold Coast!

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Editor’s Note - The COVID-19 stories

W

hat a journey for us earthlings it has been! With just one big announcement of a COVID-19 pandemic in March, the whole world went into survival mode. Countries went into lockdown; all types of travel almost came to a complete halt; people were asked to stay at home; and we were all told to wait for what will happen next. Thanks to communication technology, we were not really that unaware of what has been happening around the world. We were all in contact with our families and friends from all over, and have had a chance to know what was happening in the world. However, in the same vein, (no) thanks to communication technology, we were flooded with news and information from everywhere and everyone. As such, it was not easy to tell which was true or not. This led to a lot of confusion and panic.

We also had to deal with the choice between what are “essential” and “nonessential” activities or work. Obviously, medical, transport, aged care and child care, and food services were instantly the “essential” activities. There have been exemptions here and there on a case-by-case basis, but strict guidelines were immediately put into place to ensure that we “flatten the curve”. While many other countries have had much difficulty managing COVID-19’s impact on citizens and community transmission, Australia performed relatively well in this regard. The stimulus packages offered by the government were also welcomed by the citizens, and things did not turn out as bad as it could have been.

Although recreational boating was considered non-essential at the onset, after only about a month of prohibition, boating for leisure was permitted again, albeit with restrictions. Everyone would agree that “social distancing” could be best practised in a leisurely boating activity anyway, and that being out in nature is a foolproof way of keeping us healthy in many ways. According to the grapevine, many people then turned to boating as a way of coping with the many restrictions that the government imposed to manage the effects of the virus and to curb its spread; boating is synonymous with freedom, after all. While this was good news to the boat industry in general, the businesses were still not spared the impacts of the pandemic declaration; inevitably, some suffered much more than others.

Our Crew PUBLISHER

Competitive Brands Pty. Ltd.

DIRECTOR

Andy Kancachian

EDITOR

Roselle Tenefrancia editor@boatgoldcoast.com.au

ADVERTISE

Sales Enquiries

andy@boatgoldcoast.com.au sales@boatgoldcoast.com.au

CONTRIBUTORS Marcel Priest, Ian Anderson, Paul Burt, Nic Welch,

Andrea Francolini, Ryan Moody, Kevin Ballantine, Stephen Booth, Ross Williamson, Jeni Bone, Claire Strodder, Sarah Schwaner, Tony Bartlett, Lisa Greig, Ken Goodman, Patrick Molnar, Lani Esp-Morse, Kellie Byrnes, Tanya Rabe, Lowen Taylor, Olly Gaspar.

COVER PHOTO Imagine yourself onboard the award winning Axopar 37 Sun Top that offers true versatility for Queensland conditions with an extended roof for more protection from the elements. Adventure awaits when enjoying a perfect summer’s day out on the water. Whether sunbathing, watersporting, fishing or outside dining, the Axopar 37 Sun Top represents performance and style.

Gold Coast magazine is FREE to readers. We print 14,000 copies, and hand deliver to 400 participating locations for distribution on the Gold Coast and surrounding suburbs, cities and towns, from Tweed Heads, throughout the Gold Coast to Manly, also around Moreton Bay and Brisbane.

Moving forward, things are looking a bit brighter for us. While there are still COVID-19 hotspots around the country (as of time of writing), we can be assured that we have dealt with the pandemic quite effectively.

This period of sudden changes in the way we live our daily lives and how we view our world has also given us a chance to slow down. Of course, our thoughts go out to those who have been severely affected by the virus — directly or indirectly — but we remain grateful that we can still appreciate the world that we have, and still create beautiful stories and places from our life experiences.

Boat Gold Coast magazine is not just about boating; it is more about the experiences that we can share with one other. With or without COVID-19, we remain always interested in your stories. We also hope to keep you interested in the ones on these pages.

Keep boating! Keep safe!

Roselle

Find our magazine back issues online at

boatgoldcoast.com.au/latest-issues

editor@boatgoldcoast.com.au

Buy an annual delivery subscription at www.isubscribe.com.au/boatGC

Connect with us BoatGoldCoast

Please address all communication to: Boat Gold Coast, P.O. Box 7441, G.C.M.C 9726 info@boatgoldcoast.com.au (07) 5679 0833 Acknowledgment of Country

Boat Gold Coast acknowledge and pay respects to the traditional Aboriginal people of the Gold Coast and their descendants, and also acknowledge the many Aboriginal people from other regions as well as Torres Strait and South Sea Islander people who now live in the local area and have made an important contribution to the community.

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AUG - NOV 2020

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Never Antifoul Again!

INSIDE THIS ISSUE 1 0 Photo: Spinnakers 26 Mini Fishing Weapon 32 Girls Catching Fish 36 Catch Flathead 48 Wyaralong Fishing 50 The Spit Master Plan 56 Franklin 29 Build 66 Moreton Bay Cruising 70 Carbrook Boat Ramp 72 Club Whittley QLD 74 Beenleigh Boaties’ Rum 76 COVID-19 Times

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Know the safety rules 78 Fuel Pump Etiquette 94 Trailer Towball Mass 98 Legend Wally Morris 104 Superyacht Engineer 106 Boating Flicks 108 Intro To Kids' Sailing 109 Name Your Boat 110 Sailing East Coast QLD 116 Marina Guide 2020

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BOAT PHOTOGRAPHY

SPINNAKERS SCENE

Image and text by Andrea Francolini INTERVIEW BY ANDY KANCACHIAN

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ueensland is a beautiful place to take boating photos. Even after working in Sardinia, Italy and Tahiti, I still believe that this part of Australia is probably the best place I have worked. The colours, the landscape, the sailing conditions are all superb. Even better, at the right time of the year, a pod of whales will pop up nearby while working during an event. It really is the closest thing to sailing in paradise.

Late August is a great time to be on Magnetic Island, where this photo was taken.

It is still warm during the day but not too humid; in the evenings, it is a perfect temperature. On the day of this shoot, there was not much wind for the event, which is a common problem. But at the end of the day, I have to come home with the shot. That is what the client pays me to do, so no excuses.

No waves, no wind and no clouds. Not much to play with here. I knew that if something spectacular was going to happen, it would be at the start of the race while the boats were still all bunched up. In this instance, the cruising division was nice and compact, and spinnakers were luckily a colourful mesh of vibrant sails — as there is nothing worse than only having white spinnakers for an image. So I waited and waited. Then eventually — bang! — it all unfolded in front of me, with this scene lasting a bit over a minute - then it was gone. Even though the sea appears flat in this image, it still conveys to me a colourful adventure of real happiness.

Eventually, once the spinnakers were up, each boat went its own way. It all happened very quickly, so I needed to be on the right spot, hoping the boats stick together and that no boat decides to gybe and leave a hole in the shot.

A great photo is usually a combination of luck, good timing and a great deal of past experience. It is never the same — the location changes, the weather conditions vary, the boats are always different and constantly moving. So, knowing where to be and which lens to use ensures I get the shot I want, or hope for, at least.

I love the way boats look, the locations you get to work in, and the fact that water never reacts the same way. I can take the same style of picture and it will never turn out the same. So there is a bit of unknown, which is always fun when you see the final image.

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Being a marine sports photographer beats being in an office with fluorescent lights and air con. It is beautiful, you see great locations, and sometimes you need to battle with Mother Nature to succeed.

Camera Advice: This image was taken with a Canon 1Dx and 200-400mm L Series.

But the best camera is the one you have on you at the time; and these days, it is your phone. If you choose to have a more serious camera, like a DSLR, just remember that camera will be heavy; and if it is too heavy for you, it will end up staying at home.

It all depends on what you want to achieve; I have many cameras because I like them. For sailing photos, I use Canon. However, for street photography, I use Fuji X100F. And for my portraits, I still use medium or large format film cameras. Every camera has a reason. Of course, I can do everything with my Canon cameras, but I like to change things up.

With a DSLR, you have control of the shutter speed and depth of field. So depending on the image you are after, you can work it out. On a phone, you have less control; just aim and take the picture, and if the composition is good you will be happy.

Out on the water, the hardest part is to keep your cameras dry. It may sound stupid, but it’s true. Most importantly, keep the horizon flat, as there is nothing worse than seeing an image that has the horizon 5-10 degrees off.

Taking that perfect photo is all about composition, showing the viewer what is happening. Do not be afraid to get in close.

About Andrea Francolini: Photography started as a hobby for me that I am lucky enough to be paid to do. When I am not working, I am still shooting my personal projects, which are mainly around portraiture.

I have been shooting boats professionally for 23 years, the last 20 of which are in Australia. Back in the day, I was on the water in Australia shooting for almost 90 days of the year. These days, it is more like 20 days. With limited sponsorship for events and budget cuts, this meant I had to branch out in my photography, which is very stimulating. But sailing photography will always be my passion.

AUG - NOV 2020

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AUG - NOV 2020

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Maintaining

Your Boating Investment

urchasing a sea vessel is a large investment and one that you want to protect. Keeping your boat in P good working order will help to maintain its value over

timely manner, can lead to major issues down the road. It is also recommended to flush your engine after boating in saltwater, based on your manufacturer’s recommendations. Salt buildup can block your cooling system. This can cause overheating and corrode your boat’s engine from the inside out.

Boat maintenance does not have to be difficult. There are some simple tasks you can undertake on a regular basis to keep your boat in ship shape. Easy chores, such as washing and waxing your boat’s fibreglass exterior, help protect the external appearance of your asset.

Experts recommend following four-step maintenance routines. “B.E.S.T.� means checking your boat, your equipment, the safety elements, and the trailer. Ensuring all your onboard safety equipment is in full working condition means that should you encounter problems on the open seas, you will be well prepared and able to rectify the situation quickly. This helps prevent any further impact to your asset. Checking your boat trailer on a regular basis can help prevent bumps and scrapes in transport. Make sure you check not only the elements that physically make contact with your boat, but also items such as your trailer’s brake lights, tyre pressure and wheel bearings. All of these elements, though separate to the boat’s housing, are vital in protecting your investment during transport.

time. Proper boat maintenance and repair is absolutely essential to ensure your vessel is worth almost as much when you sell as when you bought.

However, boat hull maintenance should not be the only item on your list. Regular cleaning of the interior is just as important. Uncleaned canvas and upholstery can lead to the growth of mould and mildew. Protecting against these organisms ensures your boat looks great inside and out and retains its overall value. Keeping the interior areas clean also helps to identify any issues in your bilge. A dirty or chalky bilge can disguise fluid and fuel leaks, both of which, if not addressed in a

Ensuring your boat’s battery maintenance is properly taken care of helps to extend its shelf life and bodes well for your boat as a whole when the time comes to sell. If you have a serviceable battery, remember to regularly check and fill it with distilled water. The battery is the heart of your boat and needs to be taken care of. A boat with a good track record of overall performance is most likely to fetch a higher price at time of sale.

On top of these regular, easy at-home tasks, the best way to maintain your boat’s value is by ensuring it meets regular servicing requirements. Speak to your broker or dealer when purchasing your vessel and find out ahead of time what is required for your particular model. Different manufacturers require different servicing updates for their vessels. Your requirements will also vary depending on your boat’s internal and external makeup.

To secure your dream boating investment sooner, speak to the team of specialist brokers at CreditOne. Give us a call today on 1300 Credit (1300 273 348) or visit us online: www.creditone.com.au or email boats@creditone.com.au

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BOAT REVIEW

AXOPAR 37 X SUN TOP AWAKENING OF THE ADVENTURE BOAT T

he Axopar 37 X Sun Top is a vessel like no other.

An incredible performance day-boat launched in Australia, it has changed the game forever. Every skipper who has felt the soft suede wheel has, without fail, stated, “This is the best handling boat I’ve ever driven!”

For a month, the 37 X Sun Top spent time flying gracefully through narrow channels and trialling the offshore challenges of Queensland’s Gold Coast, which stood no match for her fierce innovative hull design.

Not long after her arrival in Australia, her new owners beckoned her to colder climates and a fresh beginning in Sydney. This is the story of a day where the water sparkled like glass in the sunlight and the tranquil water splashed clear blue hues.

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Its bow slicing through waves like a hot knife through butter, she travelled offshore from Pittwater to Sydney Harbour on a smooth 45-minute trip, cruising at 30 knots. With an extended family of cousins and children aboard, she arrived at a quiet bay named Castle Rock, calling out her royal name. The oneand four-year-old passengers safely clambered around the secure walkaround railings with smiles from ear to ear.

A feast of fresh sushi and ice-cold beers kept cool from the various fridges were relished and enjoyed to the beat of the powerful new sound system.

Suited up with snorkels, cousins Tony and Marnie were tempted to dive in and take a peek of what lay beneath the water.

When the young ones were tucked into the spacious cabin, the crew ducked around the corner to Shelly Beach via the picturesque Opera House and Harbour Bridge. It was here that the Axopar hung out by the surf break, watching the surfers ride the waves and then picking up our friend and utilising the roof racks.

After one of the most enjoyable days the family have ever had out on the water, it was time to head back to Pittwater. Rounding Barrenjoey Head, the setting sun twinkled on the shining new hull. There is absolutely no way to fault such a perfect day.

“Throughout the day the boat was a smooth and comfortable ride, easy to manoeuvre with good visibility. It was the best offshore run that I have ever had in both directions from Pittwater to Sydney Harbour. The morning rundown was fast and flat with a moderate SE swell. We were cruising at 35 knots with the boat seated firmly. On the run back to Pittwater, we had a 20-knot north easterly wind that caused a short surface chop. Sitting on 38 knots with the bow trimmed nicely, it was a smooth and dry ride,” said skipper, Joe Fox. Eyachts, the Australian dealer, have now sold four of these new models off the plan and are excited to take more people out to demonstrate the incredible capability. Contact them at boats@eyachts.com.au or on (02) 9979 2443 to book a viewing or test drive.

AUG - NOV 2020

AXOPAR 37 X CABIN - THE ULTIMATE CROSSOVER Axopar has just introduced the revolutionary Axopar 37 XC Cross Cabin.

There is no other boat on the market like this!

This new model is now more spacious and practical, with a more responsive, thrilling and sportier handling that will safely take you anywhere in supreme comfort and style.

Whether you’re interested in day trips or overnight. coastal cruising or offshore adventures, relaxing or extreme water sports the XC does it all.

TEST DRIVE & INSPECTION AXOPAR 37 X CABIN AT BOAT WORKS NOW! BOATGOLDCOAST.COM. AU

A brand of

Contact us for more at boats@eyachts.com.au or (02) 9979 2443 Learn more on eyachts.com.au

Eyachts

eyachts_

15 Eyachts

BOAT REVIEW

MYSTAR

A UNIQUE MONTE FINO 86

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his beautiful Monte Fino motor yacht was built in 2001 to a high standard, with a focus on liveability and room for entertainment. All the Monte Fino yachts are designed with modern and timeless exteriors.

There are many characteristics that define a Monte Fino — handcrafted luxury and fine craftsmanship, all tailor-made for an enjoyable cruising experience.

Featuring a full beam saloon, four staterooms forward and a full beam master, this vessel offers the feeling of grandeur throughout. The vessel underwent major improvements in 2017, under the watchful eye of an experienced surveyor.

Hand-built to exacting standards, Monte Fino yachts are noted for their much larger interior volume than other boats of a similar size, offering a surprising level of spaciousness. An entertainer’s dream, this vessel can entertain a large crowd on the expansive aft deck or the superyacht-like fly bridge, featuring a forward helm position, a multitude of seating and dining areas, and a jacuzzi to enjoy a sunset cocktail. The boat has an entirely separate crew area and galley, specifically designed to cater for a large number of guests.

The optional extra features with a vessel of this size and capacity are endless. The MAN 1200 engine in the Mystar has a top speed of 17 knots.

There are dual gensets, and the engine room in general is all in great serviced and operational order. The extended swim platform on the yacht only adds to the form and functionality of the vessel, which creates the perfect stowage location for the large rigid inflatable tender. New Simrad electronics were fitted recently to the lower and upper helm, so navigating your way to the next ideal destination will be a breeze.

Mystar is located in the yachting hub of Sanctuary Cove and proudly presented to the market at an extremely serious price point for immediate sale.

The owner’s health and being located interstate have meant it is just simply time to move on and the next owners will enjoy the improvements they have implemented at great cost to this truly unique luxury yacht.

Contact Leigh-Smith Yachts for an inspection www.lsyachts.com.au (07) 55 77 9200

LS YACHTS NOTED KEY FEATURES: • diesel shaft drive • 4 ensuited cabins • hydraulic thruster • Bose surround sound • marine air reverse cycle A/C • Sea Recovery watermaker • full height engine room • two functioning galleys • jacuzzi on top deck • stainless and canvas cover of flybridge • BBQ • under 1000 HRS on mains • two water heaters • two Northern lights gensets • fuel 9000 lt, water 2000lt

Monte Fino offers magnificent interior appointments and a level of quality, styling and attention to detail that make for luxurious comfort and enjoyment, whether cruising at sea or entertaining friends at the dockside. This luxury yacht has been very tastefully styled by her experienced owners. The fortunate new owners of Mystar, as she is affectionately known, could enjoy the azure blue waters of the Whitsundays, stand out at millionaire’s row on the Gold Coast, or berth her nearby for the best value four-bedroom innercity apartment and entertainer.

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A rite of passage.

Alaska Motor Yachts have evolved from a vessel aimed at the entry level boater looking for value into the class leading luxurious range of motor yachts today. With nearly 100 boats being delivered into the Australian / NZ market the evolution and drive to be the best in class is ever present whilst not losing sight of the core values and philosophy of exceeding the expectations of the most discerning and intuitive motor yacht owners.

alaskamotoryachts.com.au

44 - 47 - 49 - 55 - 59 - 60 Sedan - Flybridge - Pilothouse - Yachtfisher

Alaska Sedan 49 - 96 Available April 2019

A trusted name in sales of: Motor, Sail, Fishing, Sport & Super yachts from 30ft – 160ft Fairline Targa 50GT

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Endurance 686

Brokerage Yacht Selection

2001 Monte Fino 86

Norman Wright 82

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2014 Alaska 59

2014 Riviera 58

2019 Fairline 53

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$1.395M

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2018 Boston Whaler 270

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$299,000

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G A T E W AY T O T H E W H I T S U N D AY S Queensland’s newest destination, Shute Harbour Marina Resort is set to become a world-class precinct destined to breathe new life into the region, now and long into the future.

Located just 10 kilometres south of Airlie Beach, 25 kilometres north-east of Proserpine and 100 kilometres north of Mackay, Shute Harbour is the closest mainland Marina to the iconic Whitsunday Islands.

The Resort promises a state-of-the-art Marina with private accommodation for the world’s finest yachts and cruisers, a master planned Marina Plaza - Pier 61, with a diverse array of boutique retail and commercial opportunities, as well as soughtafter residential allotments and apartments for sale.

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Consider the impressive investment and business opportunities, including but not limited to, supermarket*, bottleshop*, Marina maintenance workshop, chandlery, charter and tours, offices, Marina cafe* and bar, retail etc.

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Designed as a true day trip destination, Pier 61 - Shute Harbour’s master planned Marina Plaza presents a multitude of retail, leisure and entertainment opportunities. Residents, locals and tourists alike will benefit from a vibrant village precinct with Marina Cafe and Bar, Marina Club, newsagent, supermarket, bottleshop and more.

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PLAZA ALLOTMENTS Live, work and play at the Marina Resort.

The ultimate convenience with everything you could possibly need at your fingertips.

Nestled within Pier 61, the Resort’s master planned Marina Plaza, the plaza allotments overlook lush tropical gardens.

Moloko Homes is offering a unique house and land package featuring ground level commercial space and separate lobby area with a two level luxury home set above. The package includes two dedicated car parking spaces off the plaza ideal for clients visiting the office.

PLAZA TERRACE HOMES

Only 8 plaza allotments are available presenting an exciting opportunity for an astute investor, or business owner looking for a versatile residential and commercial space.

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SHUTEHARBOURMARINA.COM

AUG - NOV 2020

Your Whitsundays Dream Awaits BERTHS PRE-SELLING Built to world-leading international standards and best practice in environmental design, Shute Harbour Marina offers 395 berths ranging in size from 10 metres to 30 metres, with larger options available.

Catering to all yachting and boating needs, the boating community can expect exceptional end of trip shower facilities, exclusive access to the private Marina Club lounge, as well as top-of-the-line docking, fuel and ancillary facilities.

Private berths for the world’s finest yachts and cruisers now pre-selling from $165,000. Call now to reserve your preferred location.

Act quickly as 35 expressions of interest already received.

MARINA PLAZA GROUND FLOOR PLAN:

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Retail 1 : Mini Mart

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Retail 1 : Mini Mart Stock Storage Area

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Retail 2: Liquor Store

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Marina Service Area

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Marina Maintenance Workshop and Store

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Charter

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Chandlery

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Charter and Tours

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Marina Management Office

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Retail 4: Gifts

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Marina Club

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Marina Café and Bar

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Café Toilets

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Café Outdoor Seating

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Marine Education Facility

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Sea Rescue

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Commercial Units/Loft Apartments

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Retirement Resort Foyer and Leisure Centre

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Undercover Parking

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Cyclone Shelter

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H AY M A N ISLAND

SHUTE HARBOUR

BRISBANE W H I T S U N D AY ISLAND

SYDNEY MELBOURNE

AIRLIE BEACH H A M I LT O N ISLAND

WAT E R F R O N T A L L O T M E N T S There are not many places in the world where you can moor your 25 metre boat on your doorstep.

Wake up to endless views of idyllic Whitsundays waters.

Breathe in the pristine sea air and soak up the tropical sunshine. Wander down to your very own private Marina berth and explore the stunning coastline.

Award-winning local builder, Moloko Homes, has embraced the project and invested in a waterfront allotment to construct a display home and will be offering fixed price house and land packages.

With just 10 waterfront allotments available, you have the freedom to build with Moloko Homes or invest in a luxury home builder of your choice.

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BOATGOLDCOAST.COM. AU

CONTACT STUART HIGGINS ON 0408 832 995 OR STUART@TAYLORSPROPERTYSPECIALISTS.COM.AU

19 Lic: 4204687

BOAT REVIEW

TROJAN 670

THE CUTTING EDGE SEA JAY SAMURAI HULL T

he latest generation Sea Jay 670 has taken the cutting edge Sea Jay Samurai hull to the next level with the 6.7m Trojan HT cabin boats. This boat performs exceptionally well in rough conditions. The R&D team at Seajay has a lot to be proud of!

Sharp in the front and flattened out in the transom, the hull has reverse chines and a high bow section. A true off-shore fishing craft with long-range capabilities, the Samurai hull offers capped keel and variable dead-rise on a wide-body configuration giving optimum ride and performance with great stability at rest.

The boat is built with 5mm pressed bottom and 4mm plate sides with foam floatation, making it a strong, solid boat, bashing through big waves. You feel no hull movement; it is a quiet ride protected from the elements.

This hardtop vessel, with 3-piece windscreen and sliding side windows, is perfect for offshore fishing or taking the family out on a sunkissed day in rough seas. There is a handy flat dash area for your personal belongings, and a large helm to mount big electronic multifunction screens. The boat has a GME GX700 VHF radio flush-mounted with 1.8m aerial, power socket 12v with USB and dual batteries in transom.

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The 670 is fitted with offshore bucket seats, hydraulic steering, a sports steering wheel and a checker plate self-draining deck. All these rugged features allow you to cut through spray and swell to make those necessary tight turns when chasing your catch. Each boat is factory fitted with a Stressfree anchor system, so you can drop a line at the touch of a button.

Designed by Seajay to be the best of both worlds, the 670 features a cabin with a 1.8m long bed for overnight sleepovers or keeping the family protected from the harsh weather conditions. The spacious lined cabin has loads of storage space for fishing and safety gear with V-berth bunks to accommodate even the 6-footers, and a beam of 2.48m is wide enough for an adult to lay down across the deck for a nap or overnight stay.

On deck, there is a lot of fishing storage, tackle trays in the stern and more tackle storage under the seats, allowing for easy access to change your rig over without a fuss. With 16 rod holders standard, this boat is really designed for fishing in mind.

The large bait board with additional storage makes the boat very functional. There is a plumbed bait tank and a kill tank under the floor. The transom boarding

platform is non-skid and there is a dive door with a folding boarding ladder. The cup holders, handrails and footrests are in all the right places.

A Mercury 200 3.4L V6 is well matched to the hull, making the boat very responsive while easily moving you along at 40km per hour. A large 270lt fuel tank means you can run all day long.

You can confidently take your family and friends out in any conditions. The 670 Trojan performs best in rough seas. When moving around the boat from the bow to stern, the top side of the hull is coated in nonslip paint and the inbuilt grab rails ensure safety.

Nitro Marine provides sales and ser vice for all Mercur y outboards and stock a full range of Sea Jay boats. nitromarine.com.au 167 Currumburra Road, Ashmore, Gold Coast (07) 5532 5812 sales@nitromarine.com.au

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BOAT REVIEW BOAT GOLD COAST

Two in one, family cruiser & sportfisher

PARKER 920 EXPLORER MAX T

he latest model from Parker Boats will impress boaties looking for a spacious, stable and versatile family weekender or sturdy sportsfisher for serious angling.

The 9.2m Parker 920 Explorer MAX offers all the mod-cons plus uncompromisingly competent all-sea-state characteristics, making it an outstanding choice for people looking for the perfect balance between a family cruiser and go anywhere recreational boat.

Her external lines are characterised by striking looks, sportsfisher styling, vertical bow and a two-step hull manufactured using the infusion process. This means a hull with higher stiffness at lower weight and lower drag, which significantly reduces fuel consumption and allows her to run flat and fast.

At a massive 5.3m², the aft deck/cockpit of the Parker 920 is 33% larger than anything in its class and comprises seating, twin tables and a 150-litre ice box. Aft deck furnishings are module-based so customers can personalise their layout to suit their lifestyle.

The modules can also be moved around at any time and can be removed from the aft deck to leave even more space for fishing and transport.

For boating in all conditions, a watertight door separates the aft deck from the aft platform, and the walkaround side decks are easily accessed from both port and starboard.

On the foredeck are large sunpads, increasing the leisure space and ideal for reclining and enjoying the views while underway or at anchor.

Within the pilothouse is a large four-person dinette with a convertible seat that folds across to become a navigator chair; sliding windows all around with curtains for privacy and protection; and a sunroof overhead for optimal ventilation. The helm is located starboard providing unimpeded 360-degree views for the skipper.

The saloon dining table and seating converts into another double bed, for kids or friends.

An innovative and unique feature of the Parker 920 that will suit the Australian boating lifestyle is the optional panoramic folding roof over the entire saloon for adding sunshine and sea breezes to a day on the water.

According to Dmitriy Dubs, co-director of Nautilus Australia, “The Parker 920 Explorer MAX is a decentsized boat with plenty of space, great layout, heaps of power and all at a great price.”

For power, the dynamic new model can take a single 400hp, or twin 225hp engines and reach a top speed of an impressive 55 knots.

Parker makes quality fibreglass boats from 6 to 11 metres. With a reputation for quality, an offshore rating in many models, and an array of features each model offers; all at a very competitive price.

Made using Twin Step Infusion (TSI) technology, the Parker hull differentiates Parker boats from the competition.

This innovative technology involves vacuum infusion during moulding, vinyl ester, sandwich cores and multiaxial reinforcement to save weight, increase stiffness and improve comfort.

In Europe, the Parker range is the choice of water police and marine biologists undertaking research expeditions.

“They are known as ‘big small boats’ because of their spacious cockpits, clever convertible seating and myriad features that make them the perfect boat for a day, or a weekend on the water,” said Dmitriy.

“We’re sure the Parker 920 Explorer MAX will really impress Aussie boaties looking for a lot of features in a compact cruiser. Most importantly, we aim to deliver the best all-round boating experience for our customers so that every part of the ownership experience is enjoyable.”

For information Tel: (02) 8084 2747 or 0414 252 254.

More at www.nautilusaustralia.com.au

Separated from the saloon by a smoke-glass door, the front cabin of the Parker 920 offers all the comfort you need for overnight stays or longer onboard. Boasting an offset double bed plus a single to port, and a separate head's compartment with shower and window.

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PARKER 920 EXPLORER MAX

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BOAT ANGLER

Paul Burt Ultimate Mini Fishing Weapon

W

hat is fast, sleek, awesome on fuel, comfortable, will run in less than a foot of water, making it perfect for crossing shallow coastal bars, and comes with a stereo? Well, if you guessed a PWC, then you are right.

In Season One of the national outdoor and fishing television show Step Outside with Paul Burt, we partnered with BRP, through JSW Powersports, to have a go on what I believe is a watercraft that is changing the landscape of quick and easy fishing — the Sea Doo Fish Pro, the ultimate mini fishing weapon.

After collecting her from JSW Powersports in Labrador, I parked the ski up onto the driveway at home, unbolted the seat and engine covers, grabbed the grinder, ‘gently’ removed the ski pole tow hitch, and added in a heavy-duty fully welded rod holder capable of taking my Shimano 37kg bent butt trolling outfit. Now we are ready to go fishing!

I did not need to worry about a sounder as the Sea Doo Fish Pro comes pretty much fully loaded with a Garmin GPS/Sounder with a wet box glued to the inside of the hull. The hull houses the transducer, boarding ladder (in case you somehow fall off ), and has direct access to the front storage locker. The rear platform of the ski has been extended for more stability and use, and the seating arrangement has been narrowed a touch making it quite comfortable on longer journeys. And that is something we have done in the past 12 months.

Getting to know the Fish Pro takes a little bit of practise, but not a lot. If you are a boatie like me and it is the first time driving one of these machines, you will instantly fall for it. The direct power of 170HP is at your fingertips. The ability 26

of crossing a shallow coastal bar with ease and not even worrying about where the channel is or what the tide is doing makes it a pleasure when wanting to head out. The fuel tank can take in 70 litres, and if you add an extra 10 litres on the caddy that can attach to the back or placed underneath in the storage locker, those faraway places on a calm day become reachable.

When fishing on a jet ski, watching the weather is paramount. It is fair enough to say that she will handle some chop. But if you are a long way from home, trust me, every bone in your body will feel the banging, not to mention the huge amount of spray from the crosswind. In these conditions, it is not a nice feeling, and at that point, your hands would be very sore from holding on, steering and working the throttle. It is then that you would gladly swap her out for a comfy ride home in a helicopter. But then, when you get back and the wind drops the next day, you are sure to be out there again — because you are definitely hooked.

and Byron Bay, we went trolling for yellow f in, a 110km return trip. That day, I did not take 80W Tiagra, but instead opted for the lighter Shimano 24kg TLD 30 2-Speed, which worked a treat.

There is not a lot of storage room for your fish, but the purpose-built cooler of the Fish Pro's purpose-built cooler houses heaps of fillets and plenty of smaller fish. It is the larger fish that can become a problem, so a fish chill bag is ideal as it lies perfectly down the inside gunwale. The cooler, by the way, has several points where removable rod holders can be attached, making it perfect for trolling a couple of rods out the back and storage for a net and gaff. When I say trolling a couple of rods, I am not talking about lightweight 2-4kg outfits; but rather, 15-24kg gear. They are super strong and have never bent, busted or un-clipped…yet!

For me, it was a matter of using this PWC for what it was made — f ishing the estuaries with my son, catching every thing in there from flathead to squid, and crabbing for blue swimmers, to heading offshore on the local grounds spinning for tuna, live baiting for mackerel, micro-jigging for snapper, and the likes. But it is the next level where I wanted to take her, and that was where the rod holder I originally f ixed through the hull came into play.

Our next adventure pushed the limits even further. We crossed Moreton Bay, fished the Seven’s off Moreton Island, then headed south to the Wave Rider Buoy off Point Lookout, then further down to 50 fathom grounds off North Straddie. Dolphin fish or mahi mahi was the target species along with jigging for kingfish and amberjacks. As soon as we arrived at the spot, the sounder lit up like a Christmas tree, and it was on! That day, we went through around 70ltrs of fuel for a 140km round trip; not bad considering it got a bit choppy coming home through the bay.

A few sessions out to sea star ted with round trips of 70kms of f ishing the 24 and 36 fathom grounds; then the wider 42 fathom reefs for marlin, before pushing it to around a 90km return trip. The boundaries were endless!

South to Windarra Banks of f Brunswick Heads

Before long, a pandemic hit, the lockdown was imposed, the weather cooled a touch.

Then eventually, restrictions were lifted for Queensland and high-pressure systems were lining up to move across Southeast Queensland.

The weather was looking amazing for our next AUG - NOV 2020

BOAT ANGLER

trip — cross Moreton Bay, round the Cape, before venturing south on the open ocean to the 70 fathom grounds for amberjacks, before sliding in closer to Deep Tempest, then Shallow Tempest for big mulloway.

When the Wave Rider Buoy measures waves to 2m, you can easily double it off Cape Moreton; it is an area that captures the bigger waves. Known for wrecks, ship containers, and underwater seamounts, this area is a perfect habitat for good quality fish. It has been that way for a long time, as it is a long way out, especially on a jet ski.

That trip was going to be around 170km return, so with the 70L-plus fuel capacity and an extra 15L, it would be enough. With the day being super calm, we could push the speed to over 80kph at times. It was fast! But when you turned the corner from Yellowpatch to the Cape, it chopped up. The waves were confused

and all boxed up coming off the rocks, and the current was ripping.

After navigating around the green zones, the water calmed as we motored further out to sea. By 8am, the current dropped with the tide. It was a first-class day. Even at 60kph, I could read the bottom at speed on the Garmin Sounder. At that speed, one can cover good ground while looking for bumps, rocks and possibly ship containers on the bottom.

We located something on the sounder — a bump in 65m of water. I circled back and slowed down. The bottom was flat, a few fish came across the screen, then up rose a squarish shape with fish clouding the water around it. A mark was taken on the GPS. The bait jigs were dropped and baitfish instantly came up on the return. One slimey was hooked up and as soon as it descended back to the depths, there was no time to even put the reel into gear. It was just

Ph: (07) 5580 4465 BOATGOLDCOAST.COM. AU

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on! (It is worth pointing out that the easiest way to keep bait alive on the Fish Pro is by putting water inside the gunwale where your feet are positioned, and leave the bait in there to swim around.)

My Shimano Jewel PE3 matched with a Torium 10 was bent to the butt and pulling drag — no time for the second rod to be dropped down.

The fish fought hard, and within a few minutes, there rose a quality silver jew or mulloway pushing 20kg. Rewarded with one fish, another drop was made. It was instantly on — this time a 15kg fish. Clearly, they were there in numbers and that was enough for me. Into the fish chill bag they slid.

The rest of the day consisted of some trolling in the sun on a calm ocean, listening to music, and quickly wondering what the rest of the world was doing — and at that single moment, I did not really care about anything.

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27

BOAT REVIEW

BUILT TOUGH FOR FISHING AND FUN

MAKO 184cc

T

he Mako 184cc is a small fishing boat that is big-water capable and offers huge potential.

This compact boat is built tough for fishing and fun, whether you’re chasing game fish or just cruising the Broadwater and Moreton Bay islands with the family.

This versatile boat is a proven dry-riding hull that is a comfortable craft perfectly suited for general inshore, nearshore, and offshore use. It can be easily handled in strong breeze and the knock-about chop out at sea present little challenge to this seaworthy vessel.

The family will love the new folding, removable aft jump seats, and swim platform with stainless-steel boarding ladder.

HULL DESIGN The chop-taming, aggressive deep-V hull allows it to brave rougher conditions with confidence. The wide beam contributes to safety and stability at rest. The overall length of the hull is 5.58 metres, with a 2.49 metre beam and a deadrise of 18 degrees. You can go places as the boat is of reasonable weight for its size, and has a 200-litre fuel tank under the floor, and a draft of just 30cm.

FEATURES AND BENEFITS The Mako 184cc is a centre-console vessel designed with two pedestal helm seats and a forward console seat. The helm station is fitted with analogue gauges, switches that are lighted rockers, and enough dash room to mount a chartplotter/fishfinder display.

The driver area has a stainless steel grab-rail, an acrylic windscreen and lots of storage. The 2020 model offers 2-tone high-density marine-grade vinyl upholstery with stain-resistant coating and composite substrates on seats.

There are port and starboard bow seats with 60-litre insulated fishboxes that drain below. The boat packages are custom-matched with tandem-axle aluminium trailer with brakes.

Everyone is getting back to the simple things in life, so there is no need for a highly experienced twinengine offshore battle wagon. There are simple ways to get you and your family out on the water in style, without all the costs.

The thing you will love about this boat is the simple and reasonable pricing. The Mako 184cc fitted with a 150 Mercury 4-stroke is priced from $75,000, making this quality vessel a very attractive family fishing boat.

It’s a great choice!

Nitro Marine has over 120 0sqm of indoor showroom, as well as lots of room outside showcasing our new and used boats and trailers.

167 Currumburra Road, Ashmore, Gold Coast (07) 5532 5812 sales@nitromarine.com.au

The hull-to-deck joint is chemically sealed and bonded 360°, plus it is mechanically fastened every 15cm with stainless steel fasteners. The boat is built of a foam-injected hull with one-piece fibreglass stringer grid, a self-bailing cockpit with non-skid deck surface, and there are under-gunnel port and starboard rod racks.

The bow is fitted with a sleek low-profile grab-rail.

Anglers will appreciate the under-gunwale rod storage and the 80-litre baitwell. The boat is licensed to carry 5 persons. And like every one of the Mako boats, it is backed by MAKO® Assurance 5+Life — the best factory warranty in saltwater boats.

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Nitro Boat-Motor-Trailer packages are power by

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BOAT PRODUCTS

HONDA V6 RANGE New and Improved

Outboard Motors

W

ith a unique blend of automotive and marine engine technologies, Honda's new and improved BF200, BF225 and BF250 are a showcase of engineering and technical excellence. Backed by 3.6L V6 engines with a compact 24-valve SOHC design, this exceptional refreshed V6 range is a leader in Honda performance, reliability and durability. The sleek profiles also allow for easy installation, particularly in multiple engine configurations.

The technology applied to the enhanced Honda BF200, BF225 and BF250 V6 engines are derived from the very same technology that powers Honda automobiles such as the Honda Odyssey, gaining from years of proven Honda engineering, precision manufacturing and reliability. This cross-platform integration of technology illustrates the Honda commitment to high performance, fuel efficiency and environmental excellence for its customers. Corrosion resistance is also improved with a new coating on the surface of engine hardware that utilises a chemically treated, zinc-nickel plating with a high corrosionresistant top coat.

Want more? The BF225 and BF250 also comes fully loaded with Variable Valve Timing and Lift Electronic Control (VTEC®), a Honda exclusive, using mild cam profile to operate intake valves at low rpm, then engages a high-output cam profile for higher-rpm operation. The exclusive design provides a unique blend of power, torque, and efficiency at any speed.

The refreshed Honda V6 Range - Everything you want and more! www.marine.honda.com.au

Supported by a National Marine Electronics Association (NMEA) 2000® certification, this refreshed V6 range of Honda outboards come with nothing short of premium quality and safety. This accreditation means the products have been tested to meet specific critical safety criteria and to correctly implement network management and messaging.

The revamped design of Honda's V6 range of outboards sets a benchmark for fuel efficiency and ease of operation, so boaters can spend more worry-free time on the water. Targeting the heart of the boating market, the refreshed Honda V6 range marks the newest evolution in the company's product line, integrating an innovative design, a new sleek style, streamlined maintenance, and an expanded number of rigging options for ease of use. Whether boaters are weekend cruisers or commercial (including government and law enforcement) users, these enhanced V6 motors deliver what every marine enthusiast wants – maximum time on the water. Attractive features for the BF200, BF225 and BF250 include:

● Programmed Fuel Injection (PGM-FI) delivers precise amounts of fuel and air to each cylinder, resulting in quick starts, instant throttle response and low fuel consumption. PGM-FI employs microprocessor technology to accurately control the ignition timing during start-up and across the entire rpm range, providing optimum overall operation. ● Boosted Low Speed Torque (BLAST™) System dramatically improves performance and acceleration by advancing ignition timing during ‘hammer down' acceleration. The Engine Control Module (ECM) steps in to increase injector timing, creating a more potent air/fuel mixture. The resulting boost in available torque at low rpm contributes to a strong holeshot to get the boat up on plane quickly. ● Lean Burn Control automatically adjusts the air/fuel mixture according to speed and load while maximising power throughout the acceleration range, increasing fuel efficiency in cruise mode (2,000 to 4,500 rpm).

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AUG - NOV 2020

BOAT PRODUCTS

BIOSECURITY IN QUEENSLAND KEEP YOUR BOAT HULL CLEAN R

ecently, Biosecurity Queensland has announced that an exotic marine pest, known as white colonial sea squirt, has been detected in Queensland. According to the general manager of Biosecurity Queensland, John Robertson, although the sea squirt has not created any major impact in Western Australia, the Northern Territory, or New South Wales, it is worth preventing it from gaining a foothold in Queensland.

Biosecurity Queensland highlights the importance of properly maintaining boats and equipment, and having boat hulls regularly cleaned to minimise any further spread of exotic marine pests. These maintenance activities include:

● application of antifouling paint; ● cleaning the boat in a dry dock or slipway (out of the water); ● looking out for any attached pests; and, ● checking and cleaning gear, including pots, nets, fishing or diving gear, anchors and ropes, before moving between locations.

Boat antifoul is a special type of paint used on the bottom of boats to protect them from microorganisms, including marine pests such as the sea squirt, that can eat away not only at fibreglass boats, but also timber and many other types of hulls.

Boat antifoul is used to put a protective layer between your boat and the marine life. Once applied it normally lasts between 12 and 18 months, depending on your boat's location. In high-flow tidal areas, boat antifouling will need to be done a little more regularly than in a slow-moving tidal area due to many more microorganisms passing by and attaching to the boat, increases growth.

Gold Coast Antifouling offers a one-stop service for all your boat antifouling needs, and a range of additional services, such as marine covers and boat repairs. For professional and quality tradespeople, contact Paul: 0417 173 257 or goldcoastantifouling.com.au To know more about the marine pests, visit www.qld.gov.au/environment/coasts-waterways/ marine-pests If you see a suspicious marine organism please report it to Biosecurity Queensland on 13 25 23.

BEFORE

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AFTER

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BOAT GUIDE JOURNEY ANGLER

Girls NG CATCHI

H S FI

Minjaia Welham with mahi mahi

M

ore and more women are wanting to learn how to read sonar sounders properly. And just like reversing a boat trailer, their preferred first stop for instruction is not the partner who thinks he knows what it is all about.

Minjaia from Mossman, Queensland, said she used to sit in the family boat looking over Nick’s (her partner) shoulder. “I just became obsessed with looking at the sounder constantly,” she said.

Whether it is Annette Swaine, ex-police officer now running a boat hire business; Melissa Kenny who runs a cleaning business and drives trucks on a mining site; Minjaia Welham who is a teacher’s aide; or scores of others from a myriad of backgrounds and occupations, they have one thing in common: the desire to know how to tune and interpret what is on their boat’s sounder screen accurately, and then to set about identifying and catching the fish it is showing.

As a result, Minjaia undertook one of Ryan’s courses to learn about Wonky Holes – areas where underwater springs flow up through the seafloor and stir up bait for serious reef fish. “Some of the points Ryan makes in the course about Wonky Holes you just go, wow, okay – that’s what is happening there,” Minjaia said.

“When the kids were very little, I was always at home and I thought, ‘No – I’m going to go out fishing too.’ It was more so to prove a point than to actually catch fish. But I got my first 96cm nannygai, and I was hooked from there on. And that’s my favourite kind of fishing — nannygai from Wonky Holes.”

Irrespective of whether it is 2D traditional imaging, side imaging or down scanning, they are turning in increasing numbers to Australia’s foremost fishing coach, Ryan Moody, to learn how it is done. And they are doing it online.

The COVID-19 lockdown has provided the perfect opportunity for many women to take on the structured online courses. This includes learning from Ryan’s ‘real-time’ recordings of on-screen imaging and understanding what it is actually showing.

Course participants learn critically important concepts, like when a grain of rice is actually a barramundi; why smaller images on the sounder do not always mean smaller fish; how a diagonal line is not actually something to ignore but rather very often signifies a fish rising in the water column; the different profile a fish has when it is looking directly at the boat’s side scan transducer than when it is sitting parallel to it; and scores of other key factors. Collectively, all these galvanise into the deadliest fishing asset you can have on a boat – knowledge.

Minjaia Welham with red emperor

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Meliss a Kenny with red

Fortunately for Minjaia, some Wonky Holes are located just 30 minutes’ boat drive from where she lives. As well as catching a trophy-sized nannygai, Minjaia also has extensive lists of red emperor, red bass, fingermark, marlin, mahi mahi, giant trevally and coral trout on her impressive piscatorial tally.

Melissa, from near Townsville, has undertaken a number of Ryan’s courses starting with Barra Basics. She has her own boat, the 5.5m fibreglass centre console, Miss Adventures Too. “I’ve always loved fishing. I think it’s more the peacefulness, and I love the ocean,” Melissa said. “Many, many years ago, when I was a teenager, I was kind of homeless for a bit. I always went to school, but I would save bits of dinner and I had my $2 handline, and I’d go down the creek fishing. That was my way of

thro at and cor al trou t

Minjaia Welh am with coral trout

AUG - NOV 2020

BOAT ANGLER

Meliss a Kenn

y with nannyg

ai

Annette Swaine with bar

dealing with a lot of what was going on in my life back then. I loved that whole challenge of going out and trying to target a species and catch that species. It’s my comfort zone and there’s no stress in the world.

“I did Ryan’s Barra Basics course first – I’ve since been through the course countless times. Each time you go back through it, you pick up something you didn’t see or hear the first time. There’s so much information in it, it’s hard to take it all in at one time. My favourite part was learning to watch the water and its lines - you learn a lot about how to read what you’re looking at,” Melissa continued. “With my first boat, I didn’t want my son to grow up in front of computer games, so we would just go out and bumble along. We would catch catfish, and all the other crap fish. But once I started doing the courses, I started catching some decent fish. I struggled to pay for the courses as a single mum, but it was so worth the money to learn and then go out and catch decent fish.

I’ve done all the other ones as well – Wonky Holes and Fingermark, Threadfin and Sounder Skills. I don’t do too badly when I go out now,” she laughed.

But Melissa wasn’t relying on a fishing and sounders course when she ‘caught’ a monster queenfish one day. “It took my bait then swam straight at the boat, launched itself over the motor, slapped me in the face on the way past, then started thrashing around in the boat with a hook, sinker and teeth flying. I had to jump on it and wrangle it bare-handed, while my fishing buddy, Tracey, stood at the front of the boat squealing like a stuck pig. It was hilarious!”

After 20 years in the police force, Annette is now a ticketed skipper. She simultaneously run fishing charters, as well as the Cassowary Coast Boab

ramundi Minjaia Welham wit

h scarlet perch

Boats franchise, Great Barrier Fishing and Island Tours, Port of Call Fishing and Boating Supplies, and a pontoon at Cardwell. Annette has four hire boats in her fleet, from a 4.2m tinnie to a 6m centre cab and two charter boats. For Annette, learning online was a great and very convenient attraction.

A North Queenslander who spent a substantial part of her life growing up on a fishing boat in the Torres Strait Islands, Annette admits that fishing “has always been in my blood”. “I watched a lot of Ryan’s YouTube videos which were really helpful. I loved looking at how he sets up mackerel rigs,” Annette said.

“He explains things really well and I really like his leader knots. I am doing the sounder skills because we didn’t have the gear growing up that you have now.

I was a bit old school on the equipment, but I have learnt quite a bit from Ryan.

He knows his stuff. You can understand what he’s talking about. He’s good at explaining things.”

For Annette, nannygai are her favourite species at the moment, but she also loves tracking down coral trout and game fishing. “We go in the billfish tournaments up here every year,” she said. “We got Champion Boat for under 7.5m last year with Innisfail Gamefish Club. The year before, I was runner-up in the female class and in the 2015 Cairns Bluewater comp, I got Champion Female.”

“Yes, I do like chasing the marlin, the reef fish and mackerel.” And what about her husband David? Annette quipped, “Oh yes, he helps a bit.”

Story by ryanmoodyfishing.com

Owning a boat should be a lifelong pleasure.

The process of buying a boat should be easy if done right.

Members of the Boating Industry Association pledge to abide by the Associations Code of Practice.

When buying a boat from a boat broker, look for the BIA logo.

BIA members can be found at www.bia.org.au or by calling (02) 9438 2077.

Life on the water is great. The process for buying a boat should also be.

Members of the Boating Industry Association pledge to abide by its Code of Practice that also incorporates its Code of Ethics. To make sure a business carrying the BIA logo is a current member, check for their details at

www.bia.org.au

BOATGOLDCOAST.COM. AU

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AUG - NOV 2020

BOAT SERVICES DIRECTORY

Marine Air Conditioning

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we’re with you

35

BOAT ANGLER

CATCH FLATHEAD on the Gold Coast

Kevin Ballantine with shallow water dusky on 10'' soft plastic

Flathead is a very popular fish to catch in Australia.

For this flathead season, KEVIN BALLANTINE and NIC WELCH offer very practical advice for catching the favourite fish in Gold Coast waters.

live bait. During calm weather, with less than 10 knots of breeze, is the most productive for flathead catching.

Sometimes a shower of rain can trigger the fish to start feeding if it has been quiet beforehand.

Quite often, the tide height will dictate which method is the most suitable. High tides allow access to shallow highest margins along banks, but the fish will be spread out and easy to spook; so, trolling small hard-bodied lures 30 to 40 metres back will allow more ground to be covered.

THE RIGHT CONDITIONS The most productive areas for flathead are usually in close proximity to some form of weed bank. This may be an extensive shallow bank only accessible at high tide or just a single small outcrop on the edge of a small gutter. The flathead will position themselves in areas where the composition of the mud/sand bottom is extremely fertile, nutrient-rich, and provides the perfect environment for juvenile prawns, crab and baitfish to hide and grow quickly.

Large flathead can reside in deep water next to structures such as bridge pylons, wrecks, rock bars, submerged trees, and rock walls. However, most flathead are generally caught in 1-2m of water and congregate around the edges of sandbanks, weed banks, and mouths of shallow estuaries. They are also found in shallow waters, near oyster leases and mangroves.

TIDES AND TIMES The best tides to fish for flathead are during the first three hours following the high tide, especially in areas where a large expanse of water drains over yabby banks. The flathead will lie in schools, head first, towards the current, camouflaged on the seabed, ready to ambush their unsuspecting prey.

Dawn and dusk are the best times to catch flathead.

However, very large specimens can be caught during the night even at dead low tide, especially when using

particularly around oyster leases.Bright pink or greeny-yellow colours work well.Use a slow retrieve with a twitching action. If trolling, troll in the direction of the current.

Totally engulfed Zerek Vibe

EQUIPMENT RODS AND REELS: Two rods will cover most situations. A 7’ 2-4kg spin rod is sensitive enough for trolling small hard bodied lures and is still perfect for throwing lightly weighted plastics long distances. For deeper and more current driven areas, stepping up to 4-6 kg rod will make using heavier jig heads and big plastics easier to handle, it will help you stop the big mulloway and trevally that frequent the same terrain.

A 2,000 or 2,500-sized reel is the perfect match for the 2-4kg rod, spooled with 3kg braid, and leadered up with 12lb fluorocarbon to make casting all day effortless.

This light combo is more than capable of landing large flatties. The heavier of the two outfits can be either a 3,000-4,000 spin reel or a bait caster, 9kg braid with 20lb fluorocarbon to make a powerful combination able to stop just about anything.

When the tide is about halfway through the run-out, clearly defined drains will have formed and it is here that numbers of flathead congregate, waiting to ambush anything that is trying to vacate the rapidly diminishing bank. Soft plastics are the go in this situation. A 3-4 in minnow or grub-style plastic matched to a lightly weighted jig head works well. Then slowly worked back from the head of the drain and worked all the way back, can provide explosive action.

Lures fall into two categories—hard and soft—and both are equally effective. Hard bodies are great for trolling and the simplest option when exploring new areas where ground needs to be covered. Locally made pig lures, Cultiva mira shads, Zerek Tango shads, and Tilsan minnows are popular. However, any bibbed lure in the 45-65mm range designed to swim between two and six feet will work. Flathead lure colours range from the wildest fluro creations to a variety of pinks, right down to natural transparent models that are a must when the water is crystal clear. Soft plastic variations can range from single and double tail grubs, minnows, shads, or vibes. Again, the colour choices are just as plentiful as the hardbodies. Atomic, Squidgy, Mcarthy, Samaki, Jackal, and Berkley brands provide a broad selection for all applications.

If using bait, select a leader approximately 1m in length with a small ball sinker above the swivel. If anchored next to a run-off from a sandbank, choose the smallest ball sinker, which will allow your line to slowly drift with the current. Flick upstream into the shallows and let your line drift into deeper water, as the flathead will lie on the edge of the drop-off.

LURES: Darren Caldwell, 91cms caught on 4'' soft plastic

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A 2-3inch deep diving hard body lure, or a 3-inch curly tail soft plastic, are effective lures for flathead,

Colin Powell deepwater jigging large vibes

AUG - NOV 2020

BOAT ANGLER

The best tides to fish for flathead is during the first three hours following the high tide, especially in areas where a large expanse of water drains over yabby banks.

A great starter pack, soft and hard selection of lures for all occasions

TECHNIQUES Flathead respond and feed differently throughout the tidal cycle depending on the always changing water height. Run-in tides push clear water into the Broadwater via the Seaway and the Jumpinpin Bar, various bait species, such as garfish, pike, mullet, and whiting, move right onto the shallow banks and the flatties are not far behind them.

Natural coloured lures are favoured in these areas.

Lure sizes can vary from a 50mm hard body right up to 220mm glide bait. The same goes for soft plastics, with some models reaching 300mm. These fish have huge mouths, so don’t think they won’t eat these; these are exactly what they want.

Stephanie Ballantine - nice fish taken trolling around crab pots

BAITS: Live bait, such as herring, mullet, yabbies and prawns, are definitely the gun baits in the estuaries and are worth the extra effort to find. Dead bait include fresh WA pilchards, white and frogmouth pilchards, and strips of mullet or tailor. Choose a hook size appropriate to the bait you are using, with a hook gape of about 1cm.

Suicide and bait holder hooks are good choices.

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Chasing jumbo flathead with huge lures in skinny water is the ultimate challenge, with casting to sighted fish as exciting as you can get. As the tide peaks and starts to drop, all the fish move back to the safety of a deeper gutter where they wait for the last of the bait to vacate the bank. Drains that funnel the remaining water to the gutters are prime hotspots to work, and all methods are successful. Trolling small diving hard-bodied lures is a great way to find concentrations of fish. As the water dirties up, switching to fluoro and dark-coloured lures, preferably with some sort of ultra violet additive, can make a huge difference to catch rates.

As the tide bottoms out, huge areas of exposed banks will condense fish into a series of gutters and drains.

Rods should be held when trolling as weed foul-ups are something that happen all the time. Sharply ripping the

rod forward often dislodges the weed and gets the rod tip back to that nice wobble as the lure swims properly.

Trolling flatties are often schooled up in a small area.

This is the time to anchor up and cast soft plastics. It is great fun, and anyone who can cast a lure 15 metres will be able to experience the bone-jarring bite, as a big duskie inhales your lure. As the lure is often at the end of the retrieve, make sure you have a light drag and be patient playing it. Once it is close to the boat your net person should already have the net in the water.

Swim the fish headfirst into the net, and he is yours. Lip grips are a fantastic holding tool when removing hooks, measuring, and taking that perfect shot without getting spiked. For bigger fish, the grips are perfect to allow them to swim and revive before release.

WHERE TO FIND FLATHEAD Along the break walls of the Southport Seaway. Along the western side of Wavebreak Island. Around Carter's Bank, 100 metres north of Wavebreak Island. Check out around Crab Island, Brown Island, and the Aldershots, as well as the mouth of the northern arm of Coomera River. Mouth of the Pimpama River. "The Junction" at Coombabah Creek and southern arm of Coomera River. The entrance to Bullock Head and Wasp Creeks along the northern arm of Coomera River. Around the Never Fail Islands. Five Ways and Tiger Mullet Channel. The mouth of the inlet at the northern end of South Stradbroke Island. Kalinga Bank. Just outside the entrance to Swan Bay on the southern end of North Stradbroke Island. (NB: Swan Bay itself is a marine park and all fishing is prohibited inside.)

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BOATYARD-SUPERYACHT YARD-MARINA

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AUG - NOV 2020

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TOTAL YACHT SERVICES

FULFILLING EVERY

its official opening in February 2020, The S ince Boat Works’ expansion with the new Superyacht facility has doubled the total size of the yard to 55 acres, making it the largest of its kind in Australia.

It’s also proudly a state-of-the-art leader in environmentally-friendly practises and processes.

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you take your boating experience to the next level.

Owners can engage trades directly or appoint an expert project manager to coordinate works on your behalf – either way, you are guaranteed competitive quotes and exceptional, “can-do” service.

On-site trades and services include:

Currently, Stage 2 of the new yard is underway to cater to demand, adding a new corridor of workshops to the already impressive array of marine professionals at The Boat Works.

• Anti-fouling and sandblasting

The vibrant boating community at The Boat Works offers visiting boaties unrivalled choice and convenience. Whether you own a jetski or a superyacht, the 60+ on-site marine trade partners are dedicated to quality and service and will help

• Vessel management

• Refinishing works • Mechanical and hydraulics • Refrigeration, plumbing and desalination • Rigging and sailmaking • Shipwrights — repairs, restoration, refit, custom

AUG - NOV 2020

BOATING NEED •

Trimming and upholstery

•

Boat sales and brokerage

•

Electrical and electronics

•

Chandlery, marine products, supply Superstore

•

Engineering

•

Surveying vessel inspections

•

Fabricating and welding

•

Detailing and vessel preparations

•

Signage and boat wraps

•

Training for recreational and commercial licenses — PWC and boats, from the novice to the professional.

There is a vast section of undercover hardstand area for owners to undertake works, various sized sheds, some with lockable workshops, AC, bathrooms, and high bay-tech lighting, as well as marina work berths for in-water repairs and maintenance.

For all your boating requirements, the marine professionals at The Boat Works will fulfil and exceed your expectations.

The Boat Works, 1 Boatworks Drive, Coomera.

Tel: (07) 5500 0000.

More at www.theboatworks.com.au

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BOAT GOLD COAST

RodTwitchin

THE VALUE OF EXPERIENCE ON THE HIGH SEA A

uthor Joseph Conrad once said: “There is nothing more enticing, disenchanting and enslaving than the life at sea.” Literature is full of sentiments trying to capture in words the allure of the deep blue while conveying its danger and unpredictability. The ocean leaves its mark on all those who experience it, and writers are no exception.

When it comes to enduring peril on the high sea, experience is priceless. But securing that experience starts in the harbour, before the sea is confronted.

Rod Twitchin, director of Rod Twitchin Marine (RTM) at Coomera, says sea experience is vital not just in the selection of crew, but even for refurbishments and repairs. RTM serves in a broad array of fields including vessel surveying work, commercial, recreation, project management, and consultancy, and has just opened a dedicated refit and maintenance division named Rod Twitchin Marine Refit & Maintenance (RTMR). This employs a “crew” with many years of marine experience and plenty of sea miles in both sailing and steaming.

“If the owner needs assistance, the time we have spent at sea gives us the ability to understand what is required when conducting repairs and/ or consulting with our clients. We understand the stresses and strains any vessel and its systems will experience out on an angry ocean,” he explains.

It is expertise, Rod says, that his clients swear by, considering the boat business has a people element that is all about rapport-building between vessel owner and business. “Many a time we have sat with our new – or current – clients with a cuppa, and discussed anchorages we have both been to, from the Kimberley region and Broome, the Louisiade Archipelago, Solomon Islands, Fiji, New Zealand, Vanuatu, New Caledonia, and the New

South Wales and Far North Queensland coasts, and many other places in between,” he states. “It’s this time that confidence is earned and friendships are forged without realising!”

The whole of Rod’s career has revolved around water. He served as an operations manager at a water ski park, before moving north to Hamilton Island, where he became involved with the commercial side of the industry and gaining his first commercial ticket as a professional instructor in the early 90s. He worked for Sunsail when it first entered Australian waters in the Whitsundays. He became the harbour master at the Hamilton Island marine office. He left Hamilton Island aboard the iconic 34-metre luxury motor yacht Dreamtime as engineer/ watchkeeper for eight years, and then went on to skipper various other vessels prior to moving ashore.

Rod worked as both project manager and general manager of large marine refit and repair companies prior to starting Rod Twitchin Marine in 2011.

Yet with more than 35 years of experience on the water, Rod still says the most defining was his time out on the South Pacific. “In the 2000s, we went across to New Zealand for the last America's Cup they had over there,” he recalls. “About 36 hours out, we got caught in the low. Not scary, but you had to have your wits about you. We then went to Fiji and New Caledonia, and from New Caledonia all the way home to Brisbane we were hammered by the seas.

There were three of us pretty much sitting up in the wheelhouse for three days and two nights with the same Jimmy Buffet CD going around and around!”

Rod further points out that proper accreditations do have advantages in the business. “Someone who has never been to sea doesn’t really understand the sea or what the boat’s attitude is. Having accreditations from AMSA as a master and engineer certainly complements my marine surveyor’s accreditation as it really gives an understanding of what’s needed on the high seas.”

RTM’s suite of services includes project management and consultancy, commercial and recreational surveying, pre-purchase and insurance condition reports, valuations, safety inspections, vessel manuals, safety management systems, insurance reporting, and even interior design.

Rod’s expansion at The Boat Works Coomera is a natural progression, which complements RTM and ensures all facets of refit and repair can be covered in-house. The new RTMR team will be diverse, about half a dozen or so in size, and capable of providing boats 20 feet and over with refits, delivered with good old-fashioned service.

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Rod Twitchin marine surveyor and consultant

The recent investment at Coomera Boat Works is paying off. “The new 300-tonne lift means we can work on bigger boats,” Rod says. “If they’re in survey, they can have their annual inspection out of water for commercial purposes. They can also just come out and have refurbishment done, service works, or annual in and out of water works.”

While the team waits to conduct a major refit on an inbound 135-foot Singapore-based yacht later this year, Rod always welcomes local boat owners.

They have supported him for more than eight years, and history has shown many take advantage of his sea experience with open arms. “We welcome a call from our clients any time, even if it’s to ask a question about weather, tides, or issues aboard. We don’t want their weekend ruined over a simple fix.

Not only can we help; we want to!”

Interview by Chris Logan

QUICK GUIDES ROD TWITCHIN ONLINE CHECKLISTS PRE SEASON CHECKLIST OUT OF WATER

Antifoul

Prop-Speed

Anodes

Bow & Stern Thrusters

Propellers, Propeller Shafts, Bearings & Seals

Rudders, Bearings & Seals

by ROD TWITCHIN MARINE in conjunction with The Boat Works RTM: 0412 641 614 | TBW SLIPWAY: 07 55 000 000

MAIN ENGINES, TRANSMISSIONS & GENERATORS

VESSEL SYSTEMS

Dates of Last & Next Scheduled Servicing of All Machinery Fluid Levels

Steering Gear & Operation

Impellers Induction ~ Extraction Fans to Machinery Compartments

Navigation Equipment

Refrigeration & AirConditioning Systems Inc. Raw Water Cooling

Navigation Lights

Desalination

Mounts Fluid Leaks: Coolant - Raw Water – Oils Anodes

All Associated Wiring, Connectors and Control Panels Bilging Systems Inc. Alarms

Exhaust System

Fuel Systems Inc. Gauges

Corrosion

Swim Platform Struts or Hydraulic Arrangements

Sea Strainers, Valving, Fittings & Associated Hosing

Freshwater Systems Inc. Gauges

Hull Bottom & Sides for Any Evidence of Impact

BOW & STERN THRUSTERS  Ensure there is no movement evident to the shaft or propellers  Check oil reservoir levels are correct and that there is no evidence of water ingress via the hull penetrations

PROPELLERS, PROPELLER SHAFTS, BEARINGS & SEALS  Check visually for overall condition to ensure there is no obvious damage  Manually move the propeller shafts up & down to inspect for any possible wear to the bearings  Inspect the bilges for any water ingress via the propeller shafts seals or obvious faults to the seal arrangements

Deck, Cockpit & Anchor Well Drainage

All Monitoring Equipment eg. Gauges and Alarms Throttle & Gear Selection Lever Operation

ANODES  Replace if anodes are wasted or will not last until next time of lift

Radio

Audio & Visual Equipment Davit SEASON CHECKLIST PRE Batteries

RUDDERS, BEARINGS & SEALS

by ROD TWITCHIN MARINE inconjunction with The Works Check visually forBoat overall condition

PRE SEASON CHECKLIST

to ensure there is no obvious damage inspect for any possible wear to the bearings  Inspect the bilges for any water ingress via the rudder stock seals or obvious faults to the seal Page 1.

SAFETY & NAVIGATION arrangements

RTM: 0412 641 614 | TBW SLIPWAY: 07 55 000 000the rudders sideways to  Manually move

PRE SEASON CHECKLIST

by ROD TWITCHIN MARINE in conjunction with The Boat Works RTM: 0412 641 614 | TBW SLIPWAY: 07 55 000 000

MAIN ENGINES, TRANSMISSIONS & GENERATORS

Tender

Black & Grey Water Systems Inc. Gauges

Batteries, Connections, Wiring

by ROD TWITCHIN MARINE in conjunction with The Boat Works RTM: 0412 641 614 | TBW SLIPWAY: 07 55 000 000

OUT OF WATER

PROP-SPEED  Ensure there is 100% coverage of prop-speed where applied without growth evident

Charts/Books

All Associated Hosing, Fittings & Valving

Air Cleaners

PRE SEASON CHECKLIST

ANTIFOUL  Ensure the antifoul is clean and not parting

Bow & Stern Thruster Operation

Through Hull Fittings, Clam Shells & Valving

Underwater Lights

SAFETY & NAVIGATION

Safety Equipment

Anchoring Gear

Water Pump ~ Alternator Belts & Guards

DATES OF LAST & NEXT SCHEDULED SERVICING OF ALL MACHINERY  Check on service records to ensure all machinery is up to date as preventative maintenance is better than cure!

FLUID LEVELS  Ensure ALL reservoirs are full to the correct level. Some coolant levels will vary from Cool to Hot however well labelled on the reservoir WATER PUMP ~ ALTERNATOR BELTS & GUARDS  Visually inspect belts for wear  Check to ensure belts aren’t under or over tightened  Ensure ALL belt guards are installed and tight IMPELLERS  When machinery is running ensure you have adequate water flowing from the discharge point  Ensure the machinery is operating at the manufacturers recommended operating temperature INDUCTION ~ EXTRACTION FANS TO MACHINERY COMPARTMENTS  Visually inspect all fans for any obvious damage include corrosion  Operate fans and inspect proper operation include bilge extraction fans on petrol driven vessels AIR CLEANERS  Ensure air cleaners are clean of contaminants and debris  Check the elements are not compressed as this will typically indicate they are clogged with poor airflow in increased fuel Works consumption

by ROD TWITCHIN MARINEresulting in conjunction with The Boat RTM: 0412 641 614 | TBW SLIPWAY: 07 55 000 000

MOUNTS  Inspect mounts for corrosion and any possible splitting or sagging within the resilient areas  Test all fasteners to ensure there are no loose nuts or bolts  Conduct visual inspections of all associated equipment for any obvious damage or corrosion Sailing Yacht SAFETY EQUIPMENT  Helm over to port & starboard to ensure you are achieving full helm at the rudders FLUID LEAKS: COOLANT - RAW WATER – OILS  Ensure all safety equipment is in date and registered where applicable and meetsallthe requirements  Straighten the rudders to centre and check the rudder angle indicator at the helm is correctly  Visually inspect machinery areas for any possible leaks and good condition of all associated outlined by your local waterway authority for the areas you wish to operate calibrated We highly recommend caution is exercised when conducting any checks aboard particularly with electrics. If you have any queries about your vessel please contact RTM We highly recommend caution is exercised when conducting any checks aboard particularly with electrics. If you have any queries about your vessel please contact RTM This checklist is generic and should be used as a guideline only and as the owner of your vessel you are responsible for its seaworthiness and proper operation.  It is advised that you conduct monthly safety drills so you and regular guests are familiar with the  Check the hydraulic system for correct fluid levels, good condition and no leaks or evident This checklist is generic and should be used as a guideline only and as the owner of your vessel you are responsible for its seaworthiness and proper operation.

We highly recommend caution is exercised when conducting any checks aboard particularly with electrics. If you have any queries about your vessel please contact RTM safety procedures aboard ensuring a swift response in the event of an emergency This checklist is generic and should be used as a guideline only and as the owner of your vessel you are responsible for its seaworthiness and proper operation.

ANCHORING GEAR NAVIGATION EQUIPMENT  Test for proper operation of the anchor gear  Ensure all navigation equipment is in good condition, operational and reading accurately  Inspect all associated componentry for condition  Inspect chain and shackles for any corrosion and ensure the shackles are moused  Ensure the bitter end of the chain is coupled to a strong point and moused NAVIGATION LIGHTS  Remark chain at desired lengths if required and check chain counter for proper calibration  Inspect condition of navigation light lenses to ensure they are not weathered and firmly mounted  Ensure the chain locker is clean of debris and the locker drain is free and not restricted  Test for proper operation  Check the snubber is in good condition CHARTS/BOOKS BOW & STERN THRUSTER OPERATION  Ensure you have relevant up to date charts, books & tide charts aboard  Check for proper operation from the helm stations and remotes  Test plotter for proper operation of the electronic charts  Check for any possible ingress via through hull penetrations  Check for correct fluid levels TENDER  Check for proper battery charge levels and charging operation  Conduct full inspection of tender condition and operation inc. all associated systems and equipment  Inspect lifting strong point and equipment for good condition REFRIGERATION & AIR-CONDITIONING SYSTEMS INC. RAW WATER COOLING  Inspect all safety gear for expiry dates and registration where applicable  Check for proper operation  Conduct radio check with VHF radio  Inspect raw water cooling systems for condition include strainers and water pump impellors  Inspect wiring for good condition RADIO  Check refrigeration door seals  Visual inspection of unit, mic and cable to ensure they are in good condition and not weathered  Inspect air conditioning dust filter to ensure they are clean allowing maximum airflow  Conduct radio check with your local VMR to ensure your VHF radio is operational Registration and Vessel Decals

Cable VESSEL SYSTEMS Wired & Wireless Remote Shore Operation STEERING & OPERATION Washers &GEAR Wipers

DESALINATION  Check for proper operation  Inspect for any leaks oil or water  Ensure all filters are clean and free from any contaminants  Ensure all gauges are in good working order  Ensure the freshwater flush is operational We highly recommend caution is exercised when conducting any checks aboard particularly with electrics. If you have any queries about your vessel please contact RTM This checklist is generic and should be used as a guideline only and as the owner of your vessel you are responsible for its seaworthiness and proper operation.

We highly recommend caution is exercised when conducting any checks aboard particularly with electrics. If you have any queries about your vessel please contact RTM This checklist is generic and should be used as a guideline only and as the owner of your vessel you are responsible for its seaworthiness and proper operation.

Initial checklist, Out of water Main engines, transmissions & generators Vessel systems, Safety & navigation rtmarine.com.au/blog/boat-maintenance-checklist AUG - NOV 2020

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BOAT REVIEW

NEW RELEASE

WHITTLEY CR 2600 OB

OUTBOARD POWERED - LEGALLY TRAILERABLE

L

ongstanding Australian fibreglass boat builder, Whittley Boats, have released their new CR 2600 OB (outboard). The Group’s new CR 2600 OB is a purpose-built, legally trailerable outboard-powered sports cruiser that’s designed for the unique Australian boating lifestyle.

The CR 2600 OB was created with the Queensland boater in mind. The outboard motor enables beach and shallow water access from the rear with ease.

More storage at the rear of the boat is made available where the sterndrive once went without compromising large areas of the swim platform space. The leg and prop can also be tilted up out of the water, lowering maintenance during mooring.

Laurie Jackson, sales manager at Whittley Gold Coast Sales, says, “Since we opened our new showroom at The Boat Works on the Gold Coast, consumers have been regularly asking for Yamaha outboard-powered packages for our larger cruiser models. The research and development team at the Whittley Factory have worked closely with feedback from customers, to design outboard versions of our popular CR models. The key was to be able to trim the engine up, as well as minimise the room lost on the large rear swim platform. Consumers can also enjoy a weight reduction in this new OB model over the traditional sterndrive model, which makes the package lighter to tow behind a suitable vehicle. This boat was built for the Queensland market based on their feedback and input.”

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Eye-catching and spacious, the tightly drawn lines and subtle curves hint at something special, and stepping on board only confirms your first impression. Making the most of its 2.49m beam, the CR 2600 is both spacious and innovative. An elegant helm console with twin seat provides the captain and first mate a commanding view through the panoramic windscreen.

Ergonomics have been well considered, and everything falls easily to hand. The sliding curved, solid cabin door reflects the detail Whittley is renowned for.

Neville Whittley, managing director at Whittley Boats, says, “The new Whittley CR 2600 OB combines the award-winning quality of the sterndrive version, with the widely known benefits of outboard power. The outboard version offers additional storage and cabin space, whilst still providing a wraparound swim platform at the rear of the boat. Customers can enjoy increased reliability and lower service costs from an outboard engine; one of the many reasons why we have seen outboard-powered packages continue to increase in popularity. We certainly look forward to showing customers our latest outboard-powered cruiser model online and in-store when restrictions permit it.”

Making boat ownership a reality has become even easier via Yamaha’s industry-leading financial services, another unique feature to purchasing a Yamaha-powered Whittley. Whittley enjoys a long term OEM supply partnership with Yamaha Motor Australia.

Under the partnership, customers can access competitive finance options via Yamaha Financial Services, YMF, and YMI.

Mr Jackson continues, “The CR 2600 OB ticks many of the boxes that families want in an all-round weekender package. The removable rear clears enable maximised airflow for those hot days, and the lockable cabin door midship means valuables can be kept safe while the boat is docked. Being under the legal towing beam of 2.5m, customers can trailer their boat nearly anywhere, anytime, with a suitable tow vehicle, making trips to unique locations a reality. With every new boat sold, we even sign up new customer to Club Whittley QLD, where they will have the opportunity to explore new boating locations with the confidence of a friendly and knowledgeable owners' group.”

Interested parties can now view detailed videos on the new model online and even take a virtual on-screen tour of the boat from the privacy and convenience of their homes. Quoting of the new model can also be done by consumers via the Whittley website and unique ‘build a boat’ feature. The CR 2600 OB will be available for customers to view onsite at the Whittley Gold Coast Sales showroom in Coomera. Mr. Whittley concludes, “Whittley Boats and the new dealership Whittley Gold Coast Sales will be running introductory show specials on this new model. Consumers can expect the same deals originally offered at the boat show.”

The Whittley CR 2600 OB is on display at the Whittley Gold Coast Sales showroom. Customers can view details of the package online via whittleyboats.com.au.

Please contact Alan Whittley direct on 0421 170 192 or Laurie Jackson on 0409 830 078 for more information or visit Whittley Gold Coast Sales in the future.

AUG - NOV 2020

CR 2600 OB

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COME AND SEE THE BIGGEST RANGE OF NEW FIBREGLASS BOATS ON THE GOLD COAST

www.whittleyboats.com.au Conveniently located at The Boat Works Building F | Factory 8 & 9 | Boat Works Drive, Coomera | 03 8339 1800 * Price includes; standard boat package (refer to website for standard equipment list), pre delivery charges, Queensland registrations, safety equipment, on water hand over, available ex Whittley Gold Coast Sales Coomera & is subject to change without notice.

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BOAT ANGLER The Zerek Tango Shad is the ideal place for the Mustad bream trebles.

Must have

By Stephen Booth

Mustad THE TREBLE CHOICE

failure will occur. This is not necessarily the hook's or split ring's fault, but is more likely the result of the angler having an expectation beyond the capabilities of the terminal gear being used. You bought the lure, so you need to make sure it can handle the pressure.

T

he arrival of the Zerek live shrimp created a stir unlike the arrival of many other lures in Australia. This lure catapulted to the top of the charts and, after more than five years on the market, still maintains its place at the top of the heap.

Retrofitting lures with new trebles and split rings is something that all anglers will do at some stage. To do this these days, with the number of quality products on the tackle store shelves, is almost an endless task, and there really is no longer any reason to simply put 'whatever-hook-you-have' on your lures.

However, recommending the right treble is not the point of this article (pun absolutely intended). The point is to get you all thinking about the impact changing trebles and rings can have on your lures.

Do it wrong and you can turn your best lure into your worst. Do it right and you can transform the worst lure into probably the same worst lure, but with better hooks.

WEIGHT I have spoken to many lure-makers over the years, and I always like to talk about weight and how it impacts on their lures. With the big, robust cod-style lures, weight is rarely a governing factor in hook choice.

But as the lures get smaller and more 'finessed', the importance of keeping the weight in and around the right area increases. And once you start talking about suspending lures, that weight is critical.

The problem with many imported lures is that they are not ready to be fished in Australia. It is common knowledge that for fish like barramundi, the lures' hooks and especially rings, need to be right, or else

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One of my favourite jack lures comes with pretty good hardware for average use. If I am using a 20lb braid and a 30lb leader, I will not change out the rings and hooks. But if I am fishing this lure on heavier tackle, say 30lb braid and 45lb leader, the poor old terminal tackle comes up a bit short. This is not because of the lure, but rather caused by the fact that I am fishing drags and lines way too heavy for the lure to withstand. But, this is a suspending lure, and changing hooks and rings out is fraught with drama.

Too much weight sees this lure turn instantly into a sinker, and while that in and of itself is not necessarily a bad thing, it does change the lure's characteristics.

Another lure that I love using for golden perch and Murray cod in my beloved Mulwala is the Custom Crafted Extractor. This lure is dynamite, and can handle a lot of extra weight and still float and fish really well. However, in recent times, my good mate Marc Ainsworth has been playing around with his Extractors, and has found a way to actually lighten up the lure and turn it into an even deadlier lure.

Here is how he does it: Marc will remove the front split ring and tie directly to the lure's tow point with a loop knot. This is a key factor. The trebles are removed and replaced with Mustad KVD hooks, and the split rings remain the same. This process lightens up the lure.

We both believe it gives the lure a stronger action.

When we fish for golden perch, speed is often super critical, and these mods allow the lure to swim harder at slower speeds by actually lightening up the whole rig. The Mustad KVD trebles are 1x strong – plenty strong enough for golden perch and Murray cod up to the 75-80cm mark when fished on 20lb braid and a 4-6kg rod.

STRENGTH The strength of the treble is probably the main reason we change out trebles on lures. More often than not, we are looking at increasing the strength so that we can fish heavier lines to keep hard fighting fish out of the snags.

The strength of a treble is a little bit misunderstood, generally speaking. A 2x hook in one pattern is never the same strength as a 2x hook in another pattern, even from the same manufacturer. The designations of 1x, 2x, 3x, 4x, and so on simply represent the number of times stronger that treble is than the standard hook of that pattern. This is important to understand so that you do not have higher expectations of the hook's strength than it actually dlivers. The 1x is perhaps the most misunderstood with these hooks being 1 time stronger than the standard hook (roughly twice as strong).

Additionally, a small 4x treble is never as strong as a large 4x treble of the same pattern. Again the treble will be four times stronger than the standard treble of the same size and pattern. This often trips people up who expect that 4x treble in 2/0 to be as strong as the 4x treble in 6/0. They will not be the same strength. If you fish a lure rigged with 4x 6/0 trebles on a 50lb line, you will likely get away with it on just about any species. However, if the same line is used on 4x 2/0 trebles, you will likely straighten them out if you fish the same drag and hook the same sized fish.

For fish like barramundi, this is critical. A barramundi does not fight as hard as a giant trevally (GT), but the strength it possesses in its jaws is extraordinary. This is where split rings rip apart and trebles lose tines or open up. Unfortunately, sometimes it is trial-and-error if you are doing your own research. You are always fighting the battle between strength and hook set ability as the stronger the treble is, generally, the thicker the metal and the harder it is to penetrate and to get a solid hook-up.

AUG - NOV 2020

The Gidgee Fatty Junior is ideal for the Saltism 4x trebles.

Ready to rig, the Mustad KVD Elite trebles are quickly becoming a favourite.

The 4x strong Saltism is a superb saltwater treble.

PENETRATION Here is a further thing to consider: Penetration of the hook point is vital to securing a fish. If the hook point does not penetrate, you are wasting your time even fishing the lure.

Fine and consequently lighter and weaker hooks penetrate far more easily than thicker and more robust hooks. Finer hooks can be fished on lighter rods and with lighter lines, as the power needed to get penetration is small when compared to the power needed to gain penetration with a 7x treble.

So not only do you need to consider how the trebles impact the lure's action; you also need to consider what tackle you are using to chase the fish. Heavier gauge hooks require a rod capable of driving them home, which generally means thicker tips and heavier line classes.

You also need to think about what happens once the hook has penetrated. How will your tackle choice impact on the treble's performance during the fight? It is easy to get a 2x treble to drive home

The Zerek Pelagic Z 180 fitted out with Kaiju 7x trebles is a deadly beast.

in a barramundi's mouth on 50lb braid, but keeping that treble from straightening is going to be a tough gig on heavy braid.

The hook-point shape is also a major consideration in penetration. A cone or needle-point hook tends to penetrate more easily than a knife edge-hook point, as there is less friction. Try this test at home with a piece of paper and you will see for yourself.

The important part in all this is that if the hook only partially penetrates, then the leverage on the hook point is increased, and it is easier to bend out the hook. It is also easier to bend or break the hook point. Both these situations can lead to lost fish. You can also try this at home: Grab a pair of pliers and bend a hook from the point above the barb. Next, do the same from just above the bend and see the difference. Needless to say, hook penetration is vital.

A WORLD OF COMPROMISE No one treble suits all needs and situations. If you are someone like me, you will find yourself connected to exactly the right fish on exactly the

wrong tackle and with the wrong terminals. It is Murphy's Law! Please do not blame the trebles or rings when they fail in these situations. Just do what you need to do to get the fish in the net.

What is my favourite treble, you ask? At the moment, the Mustad 4x Saltism is my favourite, although the KVD trebles are quickly gaining the love. The Saltism trebles are light and tough, and come in a size range that covers most of my needs. It is not the be-all-and-end-all though, but I will fish these trebles on anything from 20lb braid up to 50lb braid and be confident they will handle the pressure.

Like everything in fishing, retrofitting lures is a compromise. There is a lot to think about and you will get it wrong at times; that egg-on-my-face look my fishing mates know so well keeps rearing its ugly head. Luckily though, these instances are becoming fewer and fewer as we discover a retrofit combination that works for us. www.wilsonfishing.com

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47

BOAT ANGLER

WINTERY WYARALONG Australian bass & Mary River cod Southern Brisbane Sportfishing Club

Mark Whalley with barramundi

T

Chris Lund with bass

Chris Lund and Andreas Stoffels in the trees

he planned club trips for the year collapsed under the impact of the coronavirus pandemic. Initially, all fishing was banned but then a reprieve was granted for fishing to catch food. Some club members availed themselves of this. But with many members in the very vulnerable age group, most did not. Finally, with the easing of restrictions reopening dams and allowing journeys of 150km in May, the club was able to organise a trip to Wyaralong Dam near Beaudesert. Most club members are also members of the stocking group, Logan and Albert Fish Management Association, and the club raises money to support stocking of the dam, so it holds a special place for us all. The dam is stocked with Australian bass and Mary River cod as well as other species. It also holds pest species carp and tilapia, many of which are very large.

time. Previously most of our fishing efforts have been near the dam wall opposite the boat ramp, so this was all new territory.

The club journeyed there on Saturday 23 May on the coldest day in nearly 100 years. The temperature maxed at a balmy 13 degrees, so warm clothing and beanies were the order of the day.

We plugged away at it for hours. Switching from spinner bait to blades, spoons to jigs, and even Tassie Devils. No bass! No carp! No tilapia! But plenty of lily pads and sticks, though.

All members availed themselves of coffee to warm their internals and kickstart their day. Members started arriving at 8am to find the mist on the water clearing and still conditions. Most had taken the opportunity of the restrictions to make changes to their boats or kayaks.

Wyaralong is an electric-only dam, but it does allow your petrol motor to remain on your transom, so this provides additional safety.

The dam is also set up with rowing lanes by Queensland Rowing in the main basin, so most of us planned to journey up the dam for the first

Wyaralong Dam was fished as part of the bass competition in November 2019, and some large fish were pulled out. In September 2019, in recognition of the stocking effort, the regulations were changed to allow one Mary River cod over 60cm to be kept. Fish over this size have been reported, so everyone was hoping for a good session on bass and perhaps cod.

Once the boats were organised, we headed towards the Crows Creek arm, trolling as we went. As it was a new experience and we did not know the dam, we had the experience of getting snagged, retrieving lures, and losing and replacing lures as we went.

One of the best things about our club is the discussion at our meetings before trips where club members discuss techniques for the species targeted on the night.

The SBSFC was formed in 1995 by a band of dedicated anglers. Members of the club participate in a wide variety of fishing including lure casting and trolling, fly fishing and bait fishing.

Check out the club website on www.sbsfc.org or join the Facebook group Southern Brisbane Sportfishing Club. For further information, please contact Ross Williamson on 0407157870 or email secretary@sbsfc.org.

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AUG - NOV 2020

BOAT GUIDE

Are you a victim of theft?

y r a l g r u b d n T hef t a HOW TO PROTECT YOUR ASSETS

nlike house or car burglaries, which are generally drug-related crimes, yachts U are often targeted as part of a professionally organised series of burglaries. This is because the stolen goods are much harder to sell on, as the market is much more limited. The items most likely to be taken are expensive navigation electronics and outboard motors. Here are some tips for making a burglar's job more difficult and for protecting your property.

PROTECTION AGAINST BURGLARY AND THEFT There are a number of mechanical security measures available in a variety of models and price classes from all good specialist dealers. It can also be a good idea to supplement these with electronic solutions. Acoustic alarm systems are an effective investment in marinas that are usually remote and deserted at night, as they scare away intruders and attract attention. GPS-based tracking systems are also becoming increasingly popular. A tracking system is certainly very useful for tracing stolen yachts or larger outboards. However, the aim should always be to prevent the theft from happening in the first place. For this reason, when leaving the yacht: never leave valuable items on board; always firmly secure companionways, lock boxes and hatches; turn off the master switch; activate all alarm and tracking systems; and do not 'hide' any keys on board or in the cockpit.

SECURING YOUR OUTBOARD For smaller outboards that are fixed to the transom using tommy screws, the U-lock is a standard method of protection. However, the plastic or aluminium wings on the screws, as well as the U-lock itself, are relatively easy to break with bolt cutters or ice spray. A better solution is a toggle latch, which covers the whole wing nut and is made from high-strength stainless steel. Another highly effective alternative is a rail lock that fits over both tommy screws. Larger outboards that are bolted or screwed to the yacht have a naturally high level of protection. Because the through bolts generally pass down into the ship's interior, the thief must first go into the boat to undo the bolts. Experience shows that this requires a second person to open the locknuts. However, this doesn't stop the burglar from targeting them.

SECURING THE STORAGE LOCKER

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The storage lockers should be kept locked at all times and should not contain any valuable pieces of equipment. As standard padlocks can easily be forced open, some manufacturers build in storage lockers that can be bolted from the inside. Built-in locks are also available for storage lockers.

SECURING YOUR TRAILER To protect against theft, trailers are usually attached to fixed objects using chains or wire cables. Additional protection can be ensured with wheel clamps, rim locks over the coupling, and disc locks. The area should also be well fenced in, lockable and/or monitored, and the trailer secured.

SECURITY FOR WINTER STORAGE Nautical equipment, such as plotters, radars, GPS, binoculars and life jackets should not be left on board during winter. Loose nautical items stored off the boat, for example in your house, are also covered by Pantaenius insurance policies.

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BOAT FEATURE

THE SPIT MASTER PLAN FOR BOATIES

Photos by Andy kancachian (Marina Mirage)

The Spit has been a contested space for a number of years, and a source of tension between community, residents, industry and business groups. After a process of consultation and engagement to encourage community solutions, The Spit Master Plan was created. This article summarises a few provisions of the master plan that we deem are of particular interest to the boating community. Compiled by ROSELLE TENEFRANCIA he Spit Master Plan was created to establish a shared vision for the long-term T future of The Spit and to guide development for decades. It is a product of the collaboration between the community, the State government (through the

Department of State Development, Manufacturing, Infrastructure and Planning [now the Department of State Development, Tourism and Innovation]), the City of Gold Coast, and the Gold Coast Waterways Authority.

Former minister for DSDMIP Cameron Dick had said in a statement in Oct 2018, “For many years, the Southport Spit has been subjected to a range of development proposals that have been met with varying degrees of enthusiasm or resistance from the business sector and local community. That’s why, in 2017, the Premier announced that our government would develop a community-led master plan for The Spit, in partnership with the City of Gold Coast and the Gold Coast Waterways Authority.”

The complete consultation process included information sessions, workshops, and online surveys. In August 2017, the Queensland government announced the preparation of a master plan for the Spit to get the “balance right between protecting environmental and community values and allowing appropriate commercial, tourism and residential development.”

The City of Gold Coast was very supportive of the process. According to Gold Coast mayor Tom Tate, the area needed “a master plan and has needed one for decades, so it’s great to see so many ideas come out of the consultation so far.”

Likewise, the Gold Coast Waterways Authority (GCWA) being tasked as the facilitator of implementing the master plan, acknowledged the need for the integration in the management of the Gold Coast waterways. “One of my Board’s highest priorities is to place a greater focus on sustainable, integrated waterways management,” Mara Bun, GCWA chair, had said. “The Spit master plan is

Marina Mirage will be a popular restaurant destination in the Village Centre 50

therefore about planning for the waterways as well as the land, and it’s important that we recognise the economic opportunities for all residents and visitors while sustaining environmental values well into the future.”

Beginning in early 2018 until April 2019, the consultative planning process was undertaken with the community. All the feedback became the basis of the final master plan. As declared by Queensland Premier Anastacia Palasczuk in The Spit Master Plan document, “More than 23,000 pieces of public feedback have brought about the final master plan. Almost 140 hectares of the 201 hectare area are set aside for park activities, to rival New York’s Central Park (340ha) and London’s Hyde Park (142), with open space eight times the size of Brisbane’s South Bank.

Gold Coast has something the others don’t ﹣ The Broadwater and the surf.”

SNAPSHOT OF THE PLANS RELEVANT TO BOATING The master plan area comprises seven precincts: The Top of The Spit, Wave Break and Curlew Islands, Federation Walk Coastal Reserve, Muriel Henchman Park, The Village Centre, Philip Park and The Southern Gateway. While all these precincts have significant relevance to the boating community, development plans on Wave Break and Curlew Islands, the Village Centre, and the Southern Gateway may be considered as being of particular interest for boaties.

The master plan includes identifying new marina opportunities and berthing for larger vessels to enhance its capacity as the gateway to the Gold Coast. It also supports safe access to waterways with improvements to access points to The Broadwater.

Aside from infrastructure elements, the celebration of culture is integrated into all the aspects of the master plan, highlighting the need to keep alive the Aboriginal cultural heritage, maritime history, past existence of the Moondarewa township, early coastal tourism and changing landform of The Spit.

A new marina opportunity at the Village Centre South AUG - NOV 2020

BOAT FEATURE

More superyacht berths for SYC

The government’s $60 million investment in The Spit master plan comprises seven precincts: Top of The Spit, Wave Break and Curlew Islands, Federation Walk Coastal Reserve, Muriel Henchman Park, The Village Centre, Philip Park and The Southern Gateway much of which is considered as being of particular interest for boaties.

MURIEL HENCHMAN PARK The improvements at Muriel Henchman Park are aimed at providing safe and efficient vessel launching facilities, related parking areas, a small waterside park, and a series of buildings accommodating community organisations and those who oversee the safe use of the Gold Coast’s beaches and waterways and, therefore, require direct water access.

The master plan provides for a small park to the north of the vessel-launching facility and staging area for events in the Marine Stadium, a waiting area for vessel movement and recreation activities adjacent to The Broadwater. Smaller and non-motorised vessels, such as canoes and kayaks, can be launched from a separate launching area located in the northern portion of the precinct. Spaces for storage facilities, vessel mooring and launching facilities, and administrative and meeting spaces for organisations such as Volunteer Marine Rescue and Surf Life Saving Queensland, are included.

VILLAGE CENTRE NORTH While the Village Centre Precinct is predominantly for commercial and tourism use as a fully integrated and cohesive waterfront destination, there is a provision in the master plan to provide opportunities to celebrate the rich and dynamic maritime history of the Gold Coast, including the story of the formation of the Spit, significant maritime events such as extreme weather and shipwrecks, and the legacy of fishing, boating and surfing on the Gold Coast. There will be space for maritime remembrance and memorabilia. Further, Carters Basin shall continue to accommodate the local fishing fleet.

The Spit will remain a great place for locals to raft up BOATGOLDCOAST.COM. AU

Superyacht berths at Southport Yacht Club

A new marina opportunity will include facilities for superyachts and charter boats and a potential ferry stop that has the capacity to provide alternative transport access to the Village Centre.

THE SOUTHERN GATEWAY The master plan acknowledges that The Spit provides world-class maritime facilities that are regarded as the gateway to the Gold Coast for visiting vessels.

The Broadwater will be able to welcome larger vessels such as superyachts with new berths and on-land facilities for private and charter operations. Marine facilities, including berths and moorings on The Broadwater-side of The Spit, will provide an attractive and convenient destination for these vessels.

In this context, the master plan allows for developments that: ● support the provision of additional berths for superyachts in existing marinas considering current channel width and depths ● provide opportunities for new marinas that include on-land services and facilities for superyachts ● locate an iconic tower structure that welcomes visitors to the Gold Coast as they arrive through the Seaway.

A marina will establish a strong maritime presence at the entry to the Spit and caters for ongoing high demand for vessel mooring and storage.

The Southport Yacht Club (SYC) and its related moorings establish a prevailing sense of the maritime role of the Broadwater. An area for boat storage facility >

Another marina opportunity at Village Centre North near Sea World 51

BOAT FEATURE

. . . . . THE SPIT MASTER PLAN The boating community has a significant role to play in ensuring that the implementation of the developments and plans are in line with the master plan.

Marina at Southport Yacht Club

shall be located along the edge of The Broadwater to the north of the yacht club building. A superyacht berthing facility shall be located along the edge of Jack Gordon Park to the west of the yacht club building to provide access for large servicing and refuelling vehicles along the edge of the berthing facility.

The Queensland Government has set aside $2 million to help deliver a superyacht berth at the yacht club to create more jobs in the rapidly growing superyacht industry. This funding is part of the government’s $60 million investment in The Spit master plan.

“The Southport Yacht Club estimates this $7.7 million superyacht berth project could see up to 25 jobs created during the construction phase, with many more created as a result of the project,” declared Cameron Dick in a statement in early 2020. “The new berth will allow the SYC to cater for more and larger boats, which opens up the Gold Coast to some of the world’s largest and most luxurious yachts.” He added that as long as the project met all approval requirements, superyachts could be docking at the facility by October 2020.

SYC general manager, Brett James, said the berth represented a huge opportunity for the Coast’s growing superyacht industry and would help change the face of tourism on the Gold Coast. “This berth will open the doors to visits from bigger and more expensive yachts which bring with them economic opportunities not just for the yacht club but for businesses across the region. More yachts mean more work for the people who service them up in Coomera, more orders for the people providing provisions to them, and more customers for restaurants, eateries and retail outlets across the Gold Coast. The SYC is already a designated customs and immigration clearance point, and this project will give international superyacht owners additional reasons to drop anchor in the Broadwater.”

WAVE BREAK AND CURLEW ISLANDS These two iconic islands are identified as providing a natural retreat in the heart of The Broadwater. Wave Break Island offers low impact ecotourism opportunities that fit with and capitalise on the island's attributes and enable visitors to understand and experience the natural processes that shape the nature and form of The Broadwater. Development plans include facilities such as toilets, picnic tables and refuse disposal at managed locations, and small-scale camping facilities restricted to one area to enable use to be appropriately managed. Day use areas to be provided at the northern and southern parts. A jetty is proposed on the southern side of Wave Break Island for ferry access.

systems that are resilient to the effects of natural events, while continuing to support partnerships with Sea World Research and Rescue Foundation and tertiary education institutions. As such, under the master plan, Sea World, a marine animal park including rides, animal exhibits, attractions, and marine research and rescue activities, will provide the settings for immersive experiences that expand the knowledge and appreciation of the variety of life in the ocean.

C

IMPLEMENTATION OF THE SPIT MASTER PLAN ACT In February 2020, the Implementation of the Spit Master Plan Act 2020 was passed.

Under this law, the GCWA has been tasked to facilitate the implementation of the master plan through the delivery of a program of community infrastructure of public realm works. Approval of work plans shall entail consultation with the City of Gold Coast, the Gold Coast community and other relevant agencies affected by particular projects.

As part of the implementation program, works are underway to implement the upgrade to Moondarewa Spit and the Seaway Promenade to create world-class facilities. “We’re investing more than $5 million in the Moondarewa Spit upgrade and the Seaway Promenade to create world-class facilities for Gold Coast locals and visitors to enjoy,” Cameron Dick announced in January 2020. “The design work and construction on these projects alone are expected to generate at least 16 jobs, with more to come in the future as these facilities attract more people to The Spit precinct.”

The Spit Master Plan was created to confirm the significant value of The Spit, not only for its land, but also for the unique waterways that surround it. The boating community has a significant role to play in ensuring that the implementation of the developments and plans are in line with the master plan and promote the needs of the community and the environment.

References: The Spit Master Plan 2019 Implementation of the Spit Master Plan Act 2020

An underwater attraction, located on the north-eastern shore of Wave Break Island, is proposed to provide a significant scuba diving and snorkelling facility for visitors, being mindful that the installation of the attraction must have minimal disturbance on the seagrass.

Curlew Island shall remain protected and managed to ensure the island's significant environmental values.

PROMOTING COASTAL MANAGEMENT The Gold Coast is recognised as a place that has implemented world-class coastal management practices. Marine animal rescue and research capacity will be supported with associated facilities on The Spit. The master plan includes programs to promote past achievements (such as the sand bypass system and erosion prevention programs) and enable ongoing research into nature-based 52

Recognising economic opportunities while sustaining environmental values AUG - NOV 2020

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Watson Marine Engineering team

Cruiser on hardstand in the undercover work bay

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AUG - NOV 2020

BOAT BUILDER

GOLD COAST CITY MARINA

NEW SHEDS AND BUSY YARD

n January 2020, Gold Coast City Marina and Shipyard (GCCM) entered its 20th year of operation. With the benefit of both time and experience — the Iteam estimates they have lifted over 100,000 boats in that time — the facility

has seen every conceivable type of boat and witnessed numerous boating trends, the latest of which is the renaissance in wooden boats and a return to traditional boat-building methods.

Walking around Gold Coast City Marina’s hardstand, you would be forgiven for not realising there was a global pandemic going on. The yard has been busy with boats and yachts being lifted onto the hardstand, sheds, and new undercover work bays, making the best of GCCM’s new antifoul packages.

Meanwhile, construction is ongoing as the facility continues its expansion.

UNDERCOVER WORK BAYS GCCM has long been a supporter of the game boat community, attending tournaments and sponsoring the Gold Coast Game Fishing Club. In fact, GCCM’s chairman, Pat Gay, was recently inducted in the International Game Fishing Association Hall of Fame for his involvement in the sport.

So, after many discussions with captains and owners, GCCM committed to build nine undercover work bays specifically for this group but available to all.

With a 17-metre clearance, these undercover work bays have natural ventilation and protection from the elements. Each work bay is an ideal place for any boat to undertake work in any weather. Adjacent to these bays is a fully enclosed dedicated sandblast and paint booth.

Construction began in early 2020 and finished by June. Since then, they have been full of boats of all shapes and sizes getting ready for the cruising season. When you consider it is just an extra $1 per foot per day to be in the undercover work bays than on the hardstand, it is not hard to see why they have been so popular.

Among all this activity, one GCCM tenant celebrated a pretty amazing milestone that more than deserves a mention. It was under the new covered hardstand that Watson Marine Engineering quietly celebrated.

MAJOR MILESTONE: 10,000 boats and counting Watson Marine Engineering is one of the foundation tenants of GCCM. Like GCCM, they are celebrating 20 years of operations, yet their heritage stretches back to 1964 when founder, Greg Watson, began working on the running gear of south-east Queensland boaties.

When GCCM was built, Greg took the opportunity to form Watson Marine Engineering and move into the iconic marina and shipyard. It seemed a very appropriate time to start counting the number of boats on which his team worked.

And so started the tally. Then, in June 2020, the Watson team, now including multiple generations of Watsons, completed their 10,000th boat; that is roughly 10 boats a week or 500 boats a year. An impressive milestone by anyone’s measure and certainly expertise not easily replicated.

As it happened, the 10,000th boat was a long-standing customer of GCCM and Watson Marine Engineering. This 65-foot Hatteras game boat has been returning to GCCM and Watson each year for its annual maintenance before heading north for the game fishing season. It was also the boat that just happened to be the first boat to make the most of the undercover work bays.

“It was a pretty big but standard job. The game boat is in AMSA survey, and it was time for its five-year survey yard period. We removed the shafts and propellers and took them to our workshop for servicing and inspection before reinstalling them back onto the vessel. Not many knew it was our 10,000th boat but it was still pretty special,” said patriarch, Greg.

Watson Marine Engineering specialise in running gear. Their workshop at GCCM is kitted out with every conceivable piece of equipment to inspect or repair shafts and propellers. Like GCCM, they are celebrating their 20th anniversary in the facility by investing in their equipment.

“Very shortly we will take delivery of $150,000 worth of new equipment. It should last us the next 20 years,” continued Greg.

It may seem like an out-of-reach expertise for most boat owners, but it is not, as Watson's is offering complimentary checks of running gear as part of GCCM’s new boat maintenance package.

SPECIAL ALL-INCLUSIVE PACKAGE: Hassle-free boat maintenance GCCM has always made every effort to make boat maintenance as simple and hassle-free as possible for the owner. After all, no one buys a boat to have it on a hardstand. Indeed, their mantra is ‘On Time. On Budget. On Water.” The latest incarnation of this is their all-inclusive boat maintenance package.

Developed during COVID-19, it was a quick and easy way boat owners could get their annual antifoul yard period completed in a contact-free way. The package included lifting, waterblasting, hardstanding, antifoul preparation and application, washdown, and relaunch for boats up to 55-feet, for just $69 per foot.

Unsurprisingly, it proved popular as boat owners were looking for certainty and simplicity around their boat’s maintenance at a very uncertain time. So, GCCM is extending it, and Watson is onboard now offering a free check of running gear while the boat is getting antifouled. Yet, the price has not changed; it is still $69 per foot.

“We spend a lot of time talking with our customers and we know they want a simple, professional solution to their boat’s maintenance. They do not want to run around looking for quotes, but instead need someone they trust to get the work done. As a direct response, we created the All-Inclusive Boat Maintenance package, and you should expect to see more of this from us in the future,” explained Luke McCaul, General Manager of Customer Experience and Facilities at GCCM. Now that is a concept worth keeping your eyes on. For more information on the packages available at GCCM or their new undercover work bays, contact the team on (0)7 5502 5888 or email info@gccm.com.au.

ALL INCLUSIVE

BOAT MAINTENANCE SPECIAL Lift, Waterblast, Hardstand, Antifoul, Running gear check, Washdown

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BOAT GUIDE JOURNEY BUILDER

Franklin 29

S H OWCA S E S S H I P W R IG H T S K I L L S

By Jeni Bone

ork has begun on a wooden boat project W uniting modern construction and traditional methods and aiming to showcase the enduring appeal and relevance of the Shipwright.

In build at The Wooden Boat Centre in Franklin, Tasmania, the vessel, known as the Franklin 29, was designed by Andrew Wolstenhholme from the UK. It will feature a strip-planked hull made from western red cedar, laid decks of celery top pine, Huon pine on the transom and fitout, with other Tasmanian native timber.

It will cruise at 17 knots powered by a 110 HP lowemission diesel engine and have a displacement of a little over four tonnes.

Paul D’Olier, operations manager at The Wooden Boat Centre, is the main proponent of the project.

“The aim is to introduce a world-class shipwright training program back into The Wooden Boat Centre,” said Paul. “To do this, we had to have a variety of both traditional and modern boat construction within the course, and the content also needed to be consistent year on year.

Traditional construction components were easy with our small clinker and carvel boats that are a staple for us. I proposed a larger, modern strip plank production boat (the Franklin 29) to fulfil the main part of the program.”

Students from around Australia will participate in the 12-month course, which includes building traditional clinker and carvel-planked small boats, and the modern strip planked launch.

“The Franklin 29 provides a heritage-looking boat that fits our image as a traditional boat builder, featuring a modern finish and low maintenance,” notes Paul and the team at The Wooden Boat Centre. “The unique appeal of this vessel is the blend of traditional looks, modern convenience and beautiful Tasmanian timbers. It’s an excellent platform for the major portion of the new course, as it provides training opportunities in the full gamut of skills.”

Disciplines involved will include modern construction strip-plank methods including CNC cut moulds and bulkheads; introduction to modern adhesives and fillers used in strip plank construction; vacuum bag sheathing processes; Dynel deck sheathing; composite bulkhead materials; laid deck installation; interior fit-out; and mechanical and electrical fit-out.

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ATL Composites, in conjunction with their local distributors Tasmanian Marine Distributors, have been working closely with The Wooden Boat Centre over the last couple of months, providing recommendations on materials and construction techniques for the Franklin 29 project.

WEST SYSTEM 105 epoxy and 206 Slow Hardener have been specified as the base systems and in particular the WEST SYSTEM 105 and 207 Special Clear Hardener combination will be used for all clear timber finishes on the project. The 105/207 combination has an ultraviolet inhibiting additive that will ensure an exceptionally clear, moisture-resistant timber finish, and improved UV protection.

The mix of WEST SYSTEM fillers, each possessing unique handling and performance, has been recommended to The Wooden Boat Centre to alter the consistency of the WEST SYSTEM resin and hardener. including the 413 Microfibre Blend for structural bonding and scarfing and 411 Microsphere Blend for edge-gluing the timber planks and non-structural filleting and filling, as well as 417 Low Density Filler for the fairing system under the proposed dark blue hull.

KINETIX R246TX thixotropic laminating resin will be used to extend the working time for laminating the hull and larger areas of the Franklin 29. Mac Dalton, from ATL, will be supporting The Wooden Boat Centre with technical advice during this process, and also offering expert techniques for the construction of smaller parts that are intended to be used for some basic student training on vacuum bagging.

ATL Composites has worked closely with The Wooden Boat Centre, providing products, expertise and training for all involved. “We are honoured to be collaborating with The Wooden Boat Centre on this show-case project for the Australian Wooden Boat Festival,” commented ATL CEO Nicholas Cossich. “It is hard to believe we have been manufacturing WEST SYSTEM epoxy in Australia for over 40 years, but our passion for wooden boats has never waned in that time. If anything, it is greater than ever, spurred on by projects such as this, new products like H207 clear, and the enthusiasm of our many friends in the wooden boat community.”

The wooden boat has earned universal esteem for its part in human history, explained Paul, adding that it deserves to continue to evolve and thrive. “We live on an island, and we as a country would not exist without explorers in wooden ships. But rather than just having museum displays, it is important to preserve our links to history through training craftsmen for the present and the future. There are many historic vessels worldwide that need skilled shipwrights to preserve and restore them.”

Operating for 25 years, The Wooden Boat Centre has acquired an international reputation for its quality teaching and fine vessels. The Centre welcomes more than 22,000 visitors each year, many taking the time to engage through workshop tours and short courses.

The lower workshop at the Centre, where the 29-foot vessel is under construction, is only metres away from the picturesque Huon River.

The site of the construction of Tasmania’s most famous wooden boat, The May Queen, built in Tasmanian Blue Gum in 1867, and proudly moored at Constitution Dock in Hobart.

Construction has begun on the Franklin 29. The project is on track for delivery ahead of the 2021 Wooden Boat Festival, 5 to 8 February, where it will be on display. Ideally, the Franklin 29 will be sold prior to or during the show, to fund the next project.

“If the new owner is based in Sydney, Brisbane or the Gold Coast, it could well visit a boat show in those regions,” said Paul. “It would make the perfect day boat for those climates.”

More at www.woodenboatcentre.com www.australianwoodenboatfestival.com.au AUG - NOV 2020

BOAT GOLD COAST

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BOAT STORAGE STACKS UP! Undercover and fully enclosed protection from the harsh Queensland elements Huge annual savings on maintenance and cleaning costs Unlimited launch and retrievals (1 hour convenient phone ahead service) Around the clock security and CCTV surveillance 1, 3, 6 and 12 month packages available

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• Live in, short term rental or the perfect weekender Floor plan (indicative)

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BOAT BOAT GUIDE PROTOCOL

HOW WELL DO YOU KNOW SAFETY

RULES

GOLD COAST BOATER'S

QUIZ

By Ms Claire Strodder, Maritime Lawyer

Y

ou love to go for the day on the water with your family or your mates, and really get away from it all – the sun, the sea and heaps of fun! While recreational boating and sailing can be a lot of fun, if things go wrong, it can turn bad quickly, and maybe even be fatal. It is key that you know what steps you can take to ensure your days out on the water do not end in disaster or tragedy.

a. The maximum penalty is 500 penalty units (so up to $66,725) or imprisonment for 1 year.

running. Which of the following statements are applicable in the given situation?

b. There are no penalties that can be applied for operating a boat unsafely as a master.

a. As the owner and master of the boat you must not operate the boat unless it is safe to do so. Failure to do so can result in a maximum penalty against you of 500 penalty units or imprisonment for 1 year.

In Queensland, the Transport Operations (Marine Safety) Act 1994 (Qld) (TOMSA) imposes a general obligation of safety on all vessel owners and operators to operate vessels safely at all times. Let’s check if you know the ropes on how to operate your boat safely.

The answer is ‘a’. Under section 43(1) of the TOMSA, the master, owner and the crew could each be fined for operating a boat unsafely up to 500 penalty units, which is approximately $66,725, or even face imprisonment for up to a year.

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2

You have bought your new boat. You and a couple of mates decide to go out for the day and you are testing the boat’s operating limits.

Unfortunately, there is a “marine incident” during testing at high speed. If you are found to have operated your boat in an unsafe manner, what penalties could be applied against you as the owner and master of the boat? What about the crew?

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c. For the master, the maximum penalty is 100 penalty units (so up to $13,345) with no chance of imprisonment. There is no penalty for the crew members.

You are the owner of a boat. The boat was your dream boat when you bought it a couple of years ago, but you have not done any maintenance on it since. You suspect the engine is not operating as safely as it should be. You also have not checked if the flares are in date or whether the EPIRB battery needs replacing.

Despite these concerns, you still take the boat out for an hour or two every week just to keep it

b. As the owner and master of the boat, if you operate the boat when it is unsafe to do so, and a “marine incident” occurs causing death or grievous bodily harm to a person, you could be fined a maximum of 5,000 penalty units (up to $667,250) or imprisonment for 2 years. c. Both statements ‘a’ and ‘b’.

The answer is ‘c’. Under section 41 of the TOMSA, the owner and master of a ship must not operate the ship unless the ship is safe.

A ship is safe if it is appropriately equipped and crewed for the voyage, and that includes mandatory safety equipment being in date and in good condition. If while operating the ship, a “marine incident” occurs, then the owner and master of the vessel are committing an

AUG - NOV 2020

BOAT PROTOCOL

Take the quiz. It is key that you know what steps you can take to ensure your days out on the water do not end in disaster or tragedy.

The answer is ‘c’. A “marine incident” can include all of the incidents referred to in ‘a’ and ‘b’ above. Remember, under section 125 of TOMSA, all marine incidents must be reported to a Shipping Inspector on the approved forms within 48 hours of the incident occurring. (Forms are available from Maritime Safety Queensland, Queensland Boating and Fisheries Patrol, and Queensland Water Police.) If in doubt as to whether or not a marine incident is reportable or not, report it anyway. Failure to report can result in a hefty fine. It is always a good idea to seek independent legal advice before submitting a marine incident report form to a regulator.

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You have just bought your dream boat in Australia. The boat was built in Italy in 2016. Do you need to have an Australian Builders Plate?

Photo by Cobalt Boats

indictable offence and liable to a hefty fine or imprisonment. Remember, if Maritime Safety Queensland (MSQ) determine that your boat is unseaworthy, they can issue a direction to prohibit you from operating your boat.

3

What is a “marine incident”?

a. A “marine incident” includes the loss of a person from a boat, the death of, grievous bodily harm to or injuries to a person caused by a boat’s operations, the loss or abandonments of a boat, a collision with a boat, the stranding or grounding of a boat, and material damage to a boat. b. A “marine incident” includes material damage caused by a boat’s operations, damage to a person caused by a boat’s operations, danger of serious damage to a boat, and danger of serious damage to a structure caused by a boat’s operations. c. A “marine incident” includes all of the incidents referred to in answers ‘a’ and ‘b’.

a. Yes, the boat is imported and all imported boats need to have an Australian Builders Plate. b. Yes, an Australian Builders Plate is required for new and imported recreational boats built from 1 July 2006. c. No, the boat is not new, so you don’t need to have an Australian Builders Plate. Australian Builders Plates apply to new boats only.

The most correct answer is ‘b’. An Australian Builders Plate is required for new and imported recreational boats that were built from 1 July 2006. An Australian Builders Plate is always set out in the same standard format and contains essential safety information about the vessel’s operational capacity such as the maximum persons or weight allowed on board in good conditions (i.e. fair weather and smooth waters).

Remember, as the skipper of the boat, safety rests with you, so you must adhere to the Australia Builders Plate. Don’t forget to check that you are loading your boat in accordance with the recommended loading capacity set out on your boat’s Australian Builders Plate – this will reduce your chances of overloading or even capsizing your boat.

Examples of an Australian Builders Plate

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You have just bought a second-hand boat from a mate whom you have known for years. What do you need to do to ensure that you can operate the boat safely? a. You don’t need to do anything. You trust your mate and you know there are no problems with the boat. b. All you need to ensure is that the lifejackets meet the current standards and that the flares are in date – then you are good to go. c. You should check, at the very least, (1) that the outboard fitted to the boat meets the requirements of the Australian Builders Plate, (2) that the lifejackets meet the current standards, (3) that the flares are in date, and (4) if applicable, that the safety lanyard is attached to the cut-off switch for the motor.

The answer is ‘c’. Even though you bought the boat off a mate, you should carry out some checks as the boat could have been modified and may not be up to the safety standards expected. Remember, as the new owner, you are now ultimately responsible for safety when you are out on the boat. It is also a good idea before you buy the boat to get a marine surveyor to inspect the boat and check that it meets all of the legal safety requirements.

If you are unsure about operating your boat safely or if you are involved in a “marine incident”, please contact the team at Pacific Maritime Lawyers on 1300 797 627.

OUR LAWYERS ARE EXPERIENCED MARINERS AND MARINE REGULATORS

Capt John Kavanagh AFNI MQLS

1300 797 627

BOATGOLDCOAST.COM. AU

Photo by John Groom

• Are you buying/selling/chartering a boat or maritime business?

• Do you need help with risk assessments, audits, regulatory compliance and licensing and registration advice?

• Do you need marine incident & pollution support?

• Are you facing maritime commercial or crewing disputes?

www.pacificmaritimelawyers.com.au info@pacificimaritimelawyers.com.au

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s g n i h t l Al . . . g n i t a o b

MARINA BERTHS SHIPYARD DRYSTACK STORAGE TRAILER BOAT STORAGE JETSKI STORAGE GENERAL STORAGE SHEDS 60

BOAT RAMP FUEL CHANDLERY BOAT BROKER TRAVEL LIFT/FORK LIFT EXTERNAL HARDSTAND MARINE REFIT & REPAIR

REPAIR TENANTS SERVICES COMMERCIAL REFIT SHEDS CAFE COURTESY BERTHS ANCHORAGE CAFE EVENT/WEDDING CATERING ICE/BAIT/GAS EXCHANGE AUG - NOV 2020

Marina & Shipyard 80 Cabbage Tree Point Road, Woongoolba QLD 4207

07 5546 2300 www.horizonshores.com.au 27° 45’ Latitude, 153° 21’ Longitude BOATGOLDCOAST.COM. AU

b y d ’A l b o r a 61

HORIZON SHORES

SHIPYARD

EAST COAST H TRIMMING SERVICE Bimini Tops - Boat Covers - Campers Flybridge Clears - Dodgers Jetty Fenders - Deck Blinds Upholstery - Interior Lining

Call us on 0407 114 405

orizon Shores Marina has a huge variety of services on offer, with 500 Marina Berths, 350 dry stack storage bays, 200 trailer boat storage locations, a 70t travelift, on-water fuel facility, chandlery, marine refit and repair, hardstand and refit sheds, plus an onsite cafe.

TRAILER BOAT STORAGE & BOAT RAMP Horizon Shores Marina Trailer Boat storage is the ultimate solution to freeing up your driveway and storing your boat undercover.

MARINA BERTHS Horizon Shores Marina is one of the largest wetberth marinas in Australia. Catering for vessels up to 80ft in length, including catamarans, houseboats and cruising boats, we can provide you with shortterm or long-term berthing arrangements

Unlimited launch and retrievals; work area available for you to clean or tinker away; no queuing at boat ramps or ramp rage; no driving around looking for parking for both your vehicle and trailer, and you’re on the water quicker. So, why not free up your driveway or make space in your backyard; even better if you live in an apartment; you can have it all.

OUR FULL-SERVICE MARINA INCLUDES: Dockside assistance with our friendly staff on standby to catch your lines and assist you berth; power; water; access-controlled entry gates; dockside refuelling (diesel, ULP, premium); chandlery; ice; bait; café; haul-out facilities; refit and repair services; and, even after-hours security patrols.

SHIPYARD Our large hardstand facility consisting of a 70t marine travelift and 2 x 10t forklifts. We offer a secure concreted shipyard facility at highly competitive rates.

Being a full-service marina, Horizon Shores provides haul-out and hard standing services for boats up to 70t in weight and 80ft in length. With all marinerelated services available in one location, we will be sure to have you back on the water as quickly as possible, saving you time and money.

Services available: Travelift haul-out 70t; forklifts up to 10t; external hardstand; work arm; enclosed refit/repair sheds 23 mtrs long x 12 mtrs wide x 10 mtrs high; and highpressure water blasting. Bookings are essential.

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Benefits include:

BOAT RAMP Horizon Shores Boat Ramp is open to the public.

Avoid ramp rage and congestion with our friendly staff on hand to manage ramp movements. Relax knowing that your car and trailer are at the marina, especially with our after-hours security patrols.

Enjoy the convenience of dockside fuelling, a café, and chandlery open 7 days a week. All this for a flat fee rate of $20 per launch with unlimited nights out. Better still, why not purchase an Annual Ramp Pass for $290.00 per year. Please contact the marina office for further information on (07) 5546 2300.

DRY STACK STORAGE The ultimate solution to boat storage that places your boat out of the water in a fully-enclosed storage shed. To make your boating easy, just call us one hour prior to your intended arrival, and we will launch your boat for you and have waiting for you on our courtesy berth. At the end of your day, return your boat to the courtesy berth and we will flush your motors, rinse down the externals and put it away in our fully-enclosed dry stack facility.

AUG - NOV 2020

BOAT

SERVICES & REFITS Storing your boat out of the sun and weather in our dry stack will reduce the costs of boat ownership by: extending the life of your covers and clears; eliminating the need for antifoul; reducing engine maintenance; preventing paint and fibreglass fade; removing the need for a trailer or large towing vehicle; reducing the wear-and-tear on your vehicle, not to mention fuel; reducing insurance premiums compared to parking on the street.

Conveniently located bet ween Brisbane & Gold Coast

FEATURED BUSINESSES

EAST COAST STAINLESS WELDING MORGAN VINE MARINE Provider of quality shipwright services at the marina, including fibreglassing and vessel repairs, detailing, paint, carbon, custom par ts, timber installation, systems installations & project management.

Approved applicators of PPG Protective & Marine Coatings. 12-month warranty antifouling.

Ph 0432 779 700 morganvinemarine@outlook.com

HS

HORIZON SHORES BOAT SALES Situated in the main building near the Anchorage Cafe. HSBS are a dedicated team of brokers who are willing and able to assist you through the entire process of buying or selling a boat.

Experts in the sale of yachts, power boats, catamarans, cruisers, house boats and commercial vessels. www.hsbs.com.au Ph 07 5546 2999 admin@hsbs.com.au

Bow Rails - Duckboard Rail - Awnings Davits - Traga Tops - Bait Boards Welding Services - Cleaning Products

Call us on 0407 114 405

. e g a r o h c n A e th t a Meet you b y d ’A l b o r a

Breakfast • Brunch • Lunch Events • Fully Licenced • Catering BOATGOLDCOAST.COM. AU

7 days from 8am at Horizon Shores Marina, QLD 07 5546 2661 cafe@horizonshores.com.au

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BOAT JOURNEY

Horizon Shores EXPERIENCE

Find out why Horizon Shores has everything you need for your vessel, as SARAH SCHWANER shares her worthwhile experience with all the services available.

I

n 2019, my partner and I bought our first sailboat, Wit, a Southerly 115. We purchased her from a private vendor in Scarborough and sailed it to Victoria Point, where we tended to it on the hard stand for eight months. We learned the ins-and-outs of it and it was during this time we learned there was a lot of work that needed to be done to it for it to be comfortable, safe, and reliable. Sailing up to the Great Barrier, Fiji, New Caledonia and beyond was not going to be an easy feat and we needed to make sure everything was right. We could not do all the work ourselves and knew we could use some help. After eight months of fibreglassing, replacing the seacocks, cutlass bearing and much more, we put her in the water and made our way to Horizon Shores.

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

After checking in at the office and getting to our berth, we decided to go for a walk. We stumbled upon Horizon Shores Boat Sales and popped in

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to get an estimate on the worth of Wit, and to get some recommendations for repairs we could make and what vendors to use. My partner and I were already dreaming of a bigger boat to raise a family on so we knew we needed to be looking at Wit as more than a means to get around; it was an investment for our future.

Luke, who took over Horizon Shores Boat Sales in 2016, was a really friendly guy who was genuinely excited about working with us and helping estimate our repairs. The three of us walked down to the boat. After about an hour of chatting and looking over the inside and outside, we walked back to his office and discussed his opinions and recommendations. He said the boat was in pretty good condition, but needed a few things to make it more reliable, comfortable, and profitable.

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

There were a couple of other things we wanted to get done, and by then we knew that Luke would know where to go and who to ask. First, we needed a new navigation system. While ours was ok, it was a bit dated and weathered. Luckily, right next to Luke’s business was Marine and RV Technology, which could help us find exactly what we were looking for. Lastly, we had recently bought a MAC 2.7 tender and needed a good motor for it. He told us that Onshore Marine could provide us with a good Mercury outboard.

After a two-hour sit down, my partner and I stepped out of the office with a list of recommended repairs and businesses in hand. Tired from our day and feeling pretty hungry, we decided to wait until the morning to take care of business.

Another thing was our bow rail. We were already thinking of get ting it replaced. Luke was awesome at suggesting what we could do with it. He recommended we head over to East Coast Stainless Steel to get specif ics and an estimate.

Waking up with the birds and the sun, Horizon Shores provided us a peaceful sleep and a beautiful morning. Knowing our day would be busy, my partner and I headed over to The Anchorage Cafe for some breakfast and coffee.

Once we were done, we pulled out the list Luke made us and began our journey. Located next door to the cafe was our first stop: Marine and RV Electrical.

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

In Marine and RV Electronics, you will find Eddy, who also runs Marinetronics in Hope Island and has more than 20 years of experience in the business. In the store, there were various products from companies such as Raymarine, Victron, Fusion, and Garmin. He told us how important it is to stay in touch with the ever AUG - NOV 2020

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

evolving technological world. His confidence and knowledge was reassuring and I knew he was the person to ask about navigation and sound systems. Going through what we want from our devices and how much we want to spend, Eddy helped us work out what was best for us. We left happy and knew we would be back.

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

Next door to Morgan is East Coast Stainless and Trim. Rod, who owns the shop, helped us out.

After catching up a bit, we told him our plans for new lifelines and stanchions and showed him pictures of our boat, not forgetting to mention that we want to keep the dog safe. Rod pulled out a piece of paper and made us an illustration of what he would suggest: stainless steel all around and a netting at the bottom to keep the dog in.

Perfect! He gave us an estimate and told us to give him a call when we were ready to go forward.

much more. Dave told us if we wanted to we could help them with the repairs so we could learn to do it ourselves. We thought that was awesome!

He also gave us a few tips on where to throw our crab pots.

We reached the end of Luke’s list and were really excited about our repairs. Everyone we spoke to at Horizon Shores was super helpful and made us feel welcomed. I was happy to be here. The sun was setting over Moreton Bay and it was definitely time to open a bottle of wine and sit on the boat.

We would put the plans in motion the next day, but for that afternoon, it was time to relax. www.horizonshores.com.au

Our next stop was Onshore Marine. We met with Bob, the workshop’s manager, who provided us a quote on the Yanmar engine mounts and suggested a few motors for our tender. The shop had some displays and there was a workshop in the back. He said they could come to our boat and fix the mounts whenever we are ready.

Our last stop was Marine Team, where we met Dave and Jane. They helped us figure out the plumbing and holding tank situation. They also offered fibreglass repairs, detailing, antifoul, and

We’ve got boat storage covered.

500 Marina Berths • Public Boat Ramp Dry Stack, Trailer Boat, Jet-Ski & Tinnie Storage DIY Maintenance • High Pressure Water Blasting 70t Travelift • Brokerage • Fuel Wharf • Shipwright

HS BOATGOLDCOAST.COM. AU

b y d ’A l b o r a

07 5546 2300 www.horizonshores.com.au

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BOAT JOURNEY

y a B n o t e r o M

Photos by Andy Kancachian

A unique jewel of international significance Text by Moreton Bay Foundation

M

oreton Bay and its catchments is one of Australia's most important coastal and cultural resources. The Bay is a popular recreational asset due to its diversity of wildlife, habitats and seascapes. It supports diverse industries including fisheries, aquaculture, port services and tourism.

Moreton Bay is the land of several traditional owner nations, including the Quandamooka peoples.

Amazingly, Moreton Bay has more visitors each year than the Great Barrier Reef.

Moreton Bay has diverse and significant ecology.

Ranging from shoreline mudflats and mangroves to off-shore seagrass beds and coral reefs, the area protects valuable prawn and fish nurseries, through to migratory birds.

In 1993, large areas of Moreton Bay were recognised as wetlands of international significance under the Ramsar Wetland Convention 1971. Over 40 species of shorebirds use its intertidal habitats including numerous migratory species listed by international migratory bird conservation agreements – the Moreton Bay Ramsar site supports more than 50,000 wintering and staging shorebirds during the non-breeding season. These migratory birds, some smaller than a cricket ball, travel from the northern hemisphere, including Siberia, to feed in Moreton Bay. Moreton Bay’s wetlands are classified by BirdLife International as an Important Bird Area.

The Queensland government also declared parts of Moreton Bay as Marine Park in 1993. This marine park zoning plan was renewed in 2008 and remade in 2019. Moreton and St Helena Islands are also protected as National Parks.

The Bay supports large numbers of the nationally threatened green turtle, hawksbill turtle and loggerhead turtle. It is among the top ten habitats in Queensland for the internationally vulnerable dugong.

The pressures on the bay include water quality impacts from upstream catchments and habitat loss due to development. An increasing threat to the safety of Moreton Bay turtles and other marine life is

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Photo by marineconservation.org.au

being struck by boats as propeller injury can cause death. In response to these pressures and a concern for the long-term health of the bay, The Moreton Bay Foundation was recently launched. Their vision is for Moreton Bay to be an international treasure, known for its excellent environmental health, biological diversity, and ecological sustainability, its innovative robust and resilient economy, and its Indigenous culture and heritage.

Moreton Bay is a unique jewel of biodiversity, cultural heritage, and aesthetic beauty; not only on a local scale but on a world scale. Protecting the fragile environment of Moreton Bay is important so we can enjoy this wonderful resource into the future. We should all be concerned about preserving it, and the work of The Moreton Bay Foundation will give the Bay the voice it needs.

For more information on how you can be more involved, visit moretonbayfoundation.org.

Moreton Bay Statistics ● Bay Area - 3,400km2 ● Length - 115km ● Width - 40km ● Catchment Area - 22,700km2 ● Rivers - Logan-Albert, Brisbane, Pine, Marrochy ● Tidal Range - up to 2m WHAT IS THE RAMSAR CONVENTION? The Convention on Wetlands of International Importance holds the unique distinction of being the first modern treaty between nations aimed at conserving natural resources. The signing of the Convention on Wetlands took place in 1971 at the small Iranian town of Ramsar. Since then, the Convention on Wetlands has been known as the Ramsar Convention.

In designating a wetland as a Ramsar site, countries agree to establish and oversee a management framework aimed at conserving the wetland and ensuring its wise use - broadly defined as maintaining the ecological character of a wetland. www.environment.gov.au/water/wetlands/ramsar AUG - NOV 2020

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BOAT REVIEW

SKiP BLUE WATER 480 nder or trailer boat Ideal as a te

The Blue Water range is designed with harsh conditions in mind. The integrated long-range 80L fuel tank, full non-slip deck, and a 20°-deadrise will let you take on even the roughest conditions confidently. With the impermeable qualities of the aluminium hulls, there is no need to worry about gel coat chips, or putting the boat on a coral beach or trailer. Aluminium will not delaminate over time, retaining its agile performance and weighing the same in 10 years time.

THE BLUE WATER 480: ON THE WATER

T

he SKiP brand is named after the old Norwegian word skip meaning “little ship”.

SKiP Inflatables specialise in tough lightweight aluminium hulled RIBs. The SKiP Inflatables range of aluminium tender has over 40 different models, ranging from 2.0m to 8.3m in length. In Australia, SKiP Inflatables are distributed via their Gold Coast warehouse, which has the full range of tenders on display with many different colours in stock.

Our test boat for this review is the Blue Water 480, powered by a Yamaha F70. The hull is constructed with a 4mm thick marine-grade 5052H32 aluminium, and the inflatable collar is an ORCA®828 CSM coated fabric. ORCA®828 is used in commercial boats up to 6m in length. It is the best fabric currently available to withstand abrasion, high temperatures, and UV rays. Aluminium offers many advantages over fibreglass-hulled tender, in weight, savings and durability.

BLUE WATER SERIES: DESIGN AND LAYOUT

With the beautiful Gold Coast weather, we could not resist getting the boat out on the water for some water sports. With between four and five people in the boat all day, towing a skier was no problem at all. With the fuel tank up forward, the boat bow rise is really reduced when getting up on the plane. These boats are light for their size and are very manoeuvrable, with the inflatable collar proving extremely stable at rest.

The SKiP Inflatables Blue Water series is designed as a tough, yet lightweight tender for larger cruising yachts. The open deck layout maximises space, which, in combination with the aluminium targa bar, makes for a very versatile tender – great for fishing, water sports, or just exploring extended waterways with the added safety that RIB provides. The targa bar is an ideal place for navigation light, radars, antennas and aerials due to its high vantage point.

It also offers a tow point for water sports, keeping the towrope high and clear of the prop. It is also fantastic for fishing accessories, like rod holds and cutting boards.

All control cables and wiring are cleverly concealed under the floor in looming trays, keeping decks clear and wiring high and dry above the bilge. Another great design feature is the overpressure valves installed in each air chamber that allow excess pressure to be released from the tubes, in case of a collision or the tube having been over inflated. Other key features include deluxe closed-cell foam cushions with piping, Davit lifting points, double transom tow points, forward anchor locker, and choice of centre or side console.

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SPECIFICATIONS Model: SKiP Blue Water 480 ALX Hull length: 4.8m Beam: 2.04m Deadrise: 20 degrees Inside length: 3.8m Inside width: 1050mm Tube diameter: 480mm Hull weight: 242kg incl. built-in fuel tank, console and seats Total boat weight fitted w/ F70hp Dry: 392kg Weight of trailer and boat combined (ATM): 652kg Maximum power: 80hp Engine as tested: Yamaha 70hp four-stroke Fuel: 80L Flotation standard: Level Maximum number of persons: 11 Priced from: $29,995 including a Yamaha F50 long shaft four-stroke outboard with hydraulic steering and Yamaha dual digital engine gauges; or $31,695 as shown, with the Yamaha F70.

Add $2,394 for an Oceanic single-axle galvanised steel unbraked trailer.

Underway, this boat was a lot of fun to drive. As we headed out through the Tweed River Bar, we found that the hull was predictable and very responsive. This is a soft riding dry boat and your passengers will be pleased with the ride quality, especially on longer trips.

Ideal as a tender for larger motor yachts, the BW480 is equally suitable as a trailer boat towable by smaller family vehicles and easily stored in a modest space with the tubes deflated.

The performance numbers below were taken with two adults in the boat in calm conditions.

However, in choppy conditions, the numbers would not differ greatly as this is where a welldesigned RIB really starts to perform at its best in comparison to other boat designs.

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BOAT JOURNEY

EN JOY TH E DAY AT

CARBROOK BOAT RAMP

By Andy Kancachian also

situated on the same property. Herb sold the property to Martin and Shella Wedd in 1987. It was sold again in 1992 to two brothers Bill and Peter Hiland, and eventually sold to the current Claremont Holdings in 2005.”

BERNIE, THE SHARK

The shop has quite a colourful past, with a lot of people running it over the last 50 odd years. Tony took over the shop in late January 2020, and was thrilled to be a part of its rich history and prosperous future. “I have undertaken a lot of work to the shop and boat storage yard, including painting, cleaning up and renovating. ark h Bernie The Sh Tony Bartlett wit The main aim of the shop is to supply good bait and tackle on the northern side of the river, which was lacking, and I thought was needed by locals. So now, ust a short drive from the Gold Coast is the Carbrook Boat Ramp Bait & Tackle near they have great bait and tackle, drinks, snacks Brisbane, a great stop for some local history, or and many more services planned for the future.” to watch high-adrenaline cable park waterskiing. Tony dreamt of having a fibreglass shark to put For those looking for a unique boat launching on the roof of the shop, as the Logan River is location, the area provides direct access to the renowned for bull shark fishing. “I didn’t realise heart of the Logan River or as a gateway to the how difficult or simple this was going to be, southern Moreton Bay Islands and northern finding a giant-size shark.” Tony reminiscences, Broadwater area. with just a hint of excitement. “I was just about to

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The most exciting aspect of this once off-thebeaten-track destination must be local larrikin and site manager, Tony Bartlett. His enthusiasm has revitalised this destination into a popular must-do for local boaters.

The Carbrook Boat Ramp Bait & Tackle has been around since the late 1960s. Tony explains further, “We have a manmade lake that was built by Herb Gardiner for his daughter to practise her skiing. I have been told she was a skier at Sea World. The lake was under construction in 1970. The shed, which houses the shop, was built between 1971 and 1972, with the boat ramp already there in its primitive state, when it was a dirt road with a little ramp. In 1973, Herb Gardiner also gained the approval for Aquatic Gardens Caravan Park 70

put the idea of a shark on the back burner, as I couldn’t find one anywhere. Then, one day, while going for a drive to visit a mate, not even 10km from the shop, I found Bernie, the bull shark, sitting in the front yard of Darren, the demolition man’s house. I couldn’t believe it! I quickly reversed up the road; and we just sat and stared at each other, man and shark, and right then, we both knew it was love at first sight.”

visit the shop say they have seen that shark somewhere before. After explaining where Bernie came from, they are very happy to know he is still around. Tony states, “Just recently, a couple that took a photo with him explained, they are second generation Bernie fans, as they had photos with Bernie and their parents, decades ago.”

This love and enthusiasm for Bernie makes Tony happy; seeing smiling faces is his great reward.

He says, “Our boat ramp is very popular in all weather, as the stretch of the Logan River is well sheltered and it is a quick run down the river to beautiful Moreton Bay.” Carbrook Boat Ramp Bait & Tackle is an ideal destination for the boat beginner, as they have a boat and jet ski licencing centre on site. The shop is open seven days a week to answer any questions about the local waterways. “So, if you’re in the neighbourhood, don’t be shy! Drop in, say hi, and get your photo taken with Bernie,” Tony invites all readers with a smile.

They have great security in the car park, with CCTV cameras and someone always on site. There is an entry free of $10 to use the ramp with parking included. Tony explains, “It really gives one the peace of mind to know that when you return, all your belongings are still safe and sound.”

After negotiations with Darren, who said that it wasn’t necessary for Tony to get on his knees and beg, Darren agreed Bernie would be more appreciated at the tackle shop. “We agreed on a very fair price, so Bernie is now part of the Logan River community. “ Bernie was originally at the wharf in Mooloolaba, which was built in 1988. So, a lot of people who AUG - NOV 2020

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THE MIGHTY LOGAN RIVER The 184-km-long river is one of the dominant waterways in South East Queensland that drains the southern ranges of the Scenic Rim and empties into Moreton Bay, after navigating the City of Logan, a major suburban centre located south of Brisbane.

The Yugambeh clan of the Jagera people are thought to have once roamed throughout the catchment. Traditional owners in the catchment made use of the abundant natural resources.

Various plants and animals were used as staple foods as the seasons changed and as new food sources became available.

In August 1826 Captain Patrick Logan was the first European to discover the river. Logan initially named the river the Darling River, but to avoid confusion, Governor Ralph Darling ordered the name be changed to honour its discoverer.

Boat traffic was thriving along the river by the 1860s mostly because it was the best transport route in the area. Steam ships, cutters and hand-

loaded punts were the most common vessels A popular fishing destination, the Logan River offers flathead, tailor, whiting, bream, mulloway and the king threadfin salmon, as well as small sharks, for fishers. During winter, there are pods of dolphins in the river, a sign that the mullet are running. Sea eagles, gulls and pelicans fly overhead, looking for bait schools, which are preying on mullet, herring and other species.

“And don’t forget your pots! The river is famous for big mud crabs,” declares Tony.

Go offshore fishing

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BOAT JOURNEY

CLUB WHITTLEY Queensland IT'S AN AUSTRALIAN TRADITION THAT'S MORE LIKE A FAMILY THAN A CLUB

By Lisa Greig He just happened to be the treasurer of the Club. They welcomed us aboard their boat and told us so much then and there, that the next week we owned a CR2080. This encounter gave both my husband and I the confidence we could get the boat we really wanted and have sufficient help with things like launchand-retrieve, which we all know can be the most stressful part of boating. We joined the Club that same week and went on every trip they had planned from there on. Everyone in the Club was so eager to pass on their experience that we have learnt so much about the boat. We were confident in no time! We have also met people who will be lifelong friends. It doesn’t matter how new to boating you may be; everyone is willing to lend a hand.

During our most recent trip, for instance, we encountered a mechanical problem and a hose burst. The boat was taking on water. Naturally, I was in full panic! But over the radio, the advice was to beach the boat, pump out the water, and look for the leak. We had 18 boats on this trip around Bribie, and the problem was dealt with quickly, easily and calmly. Thank goodness for my wonderful Club!

Raft-up at Horse Shoe Bay

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lub Whittley Queensland was born at the Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show in 1996. Northside Marine owner, Greg Nickerson, had a great idea of forming a social club for like-minded Whittley owners to plan trips together, forge lifelong friendships, and pass on valuable information about the Whittley boats to each other. There was only one requirement: you had to own a Whittley — old or new, it didn’t matter. Everyone was welcome.

For the last 25 years, Club Whittley Queensland has been a well-structured, professional club that plans trips once a month for members to come together and travel throughout Queensland, New South Wales and Victoria. Luckily Whittley boats are trailerable, so no matter how far we travel on the road, we can use our boats as caravans as such, during a long haul.

The committee plans twelve trips per year, and a calendar is produced shortly after the AGM, usually held in August, that will outline the next year. We always plan an overnight stay or two, depending if there is a long weekend. We do try to plan our trips that are on long weekends for longer breaks such as Hervey Bay, Fraser Island, and New South Wales. We have also planned two-week trips to places such as the Whitsundays. Oh, the beauty of owning a trailer boat!

We have had people travel from as far as Melbourne to the Whitsundays. The best thing about Club Whittley being in almost every state is that you can easily check with interstate clubs what trips are coming up and tag along as you are travelling the coast, making lifelong friends and gaining experience along the way.

Our last trip was planned for 6-7 June to Bribie Island. Although the Covid-19 pandemic threw a little spanner in the calendar, we still had a fantastic turnout of 18 boats! This trip was coordinated by Julian Cox, the outgoing Commodore, and a scuba instructor for most of his adult life. He lives up that way and knows the area extremely well. We launched from the Bribie VMR. It was great as with so many members there, everyone gave a hand at launching, but this weekend proved the retrieval wasn’t as easy as we hoped. Wind picked up, the current was strong and we had six Whittley boats trying to get in as well as all the other non-Whittley boats and jetskis. None of us left the ramp until we were all in and safely on the trailer. Even the most experienced skipper was happy for the hand as it just makes it so much easier.

National rallies are planned every two years, as Whittley Boats are owned, built and proudly Australian-made in Melbourne. We travel to each state for these rallies, which can have as many as 60-70 boats participate. These rallies are planned for years in advance and great fun!

Club Whittley Queensland has a private Facebook page for financial members.

Most weekends, weather permitting, someone would post they are going out somewhere and ask if anyone would like to join them. Membership is only $72 per year and what you learn from the Club is priceless.

The main reason my husband and I joined Club Whittley Queensland was to gain experience. We were pretty new to boating at the time, and to buy a 20ft boat as your first boat was a little daunting. But I wanted it badly! I was researching the Whittley CR2080 stern drive for quite some time and the Club information came up in Google, and then I realised they were on Facebook as well.

One day we were sitting on the verandah of the Moreton Bay Trailer Boat Club at Manly, and we watched a Whittley come in and went over to talk to the owner.

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Club Whittley members coming ashore

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BOAT JOURNEY

On the beach at Pumistone Passage

A stop at Bribie Island's Mission Point

Bribie Island for champagne and fun

Members came from the Gold Coast, Ipswich, Northside, Bayside and a few were locals, so they were able to launch either from their own canal pontoons or local ramps. Some stayed at a marina for the first night and some stayed on the water at Bongaree. The plan was to all meet at Bongaree by 11am Saturday and travel up to Mission Point campsite, where we had a bonfire on the beach for happy hour and a very peaceful sleep in glassed-out waters. We had approximately 50 people, and we were all very conscious of the social distancing rule of 20 in a gathering, so formed groups that rotated around. We built a fire on the shore. Our biggest delight was seeing the kids having so much fun! We are super excited that more and more kids are coming into our Club! We are gaining more members all the time and love seeing more kids coming each time, with just a ball and no iPads in sight!

We have all sorts of Whittley models in our Club, from CW1650 to the CR2800.

The majority of boats are somewhere in the middle, CR2080s, CR2380s, SLs, then up to the CR2600s, and a couple of CR2800s, which is the largest in the Whittley fleet.

If it wasn’t for Club Whittley Queensland, we wouldn’t get half the use out of our boat as we do, and would not travel to places we would never think of going! We quickly discovered, while using our boat so much, that we needed more storage, a bigger fuel tank, and more fresh water. So we sold the 2080 and are now proud owners of the CR2600 Sterndrive. I have become passionate about the brand “Whittley” and the wonderful lifestyle, and the friendships that feel like family.

Whittley has the perfect model for everyone. Whether it is fishing, cruising, or wine and crackers at sunset, you would be hard-matched to find a better finished boat with all the options, handling abilities, and the good looks of a Whittley.

All Whittley boats are now available as an outboard. At Whittley QLD Sales, we can put together the perfect package to suit your needs. With every new boat purchased, Whittley Qld Sales includes a free one-year membership to our Club, which can be invaluable to the new boatie, just as it was to us and still is.

Our next planned trip is September on the Gold Coast Broadwater, and conditions being great, we will cross the bar at the Spit and venture out to look for whales.

October brings the long weekend and the popular Fraser Island Trip.

These trips are very professionally planned by the person who knows the areas best, knows the currents, and knows the best places to stay the night to get out of the wind. These trips are planned 12 months in advance, but the fine tuning comes into play around two weeks out, and then is closely monitored by the trip coordinator and the Commodore of the Club, who puts together a planned route, tides, and weather, and advises on the best launch location. If it's too windy and could be deemed unsafe, the trip is cancelled or postponed.

While underway and following each other, the trip coordinator reminds us over the radio to keep a safe distance away from each other. Everyone can communicate with each other if any problems arise, which are swiftly accessed. Advice from the many highly experienced boaties is given to stricken vessels, if required.

When coming ashore, the trip coordinator will call the national park, camp sites or marina to advise us of their protocols. We have been very lucky with even private property owners more than happy to let us tender up to their land for happy hour and catch up, or even for a fire in winter.

www.whittleyboats.com.au/whittley-clubs

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BOAT HISTORY There are several theories on where the term “rum” originated. Most likely, “rum” may have been an abbreviation of “rumbullion”, an English dialectical word meaning tumult or uproar, which was used to describe the liquor due to its intoxicating effects.

THE TALE OF

Beenleigh boaties’ rum

In the early days, rum was synonymous with the Royal Navy. The sailors were rationed a daily tot of rum. It was originally given to them neat, as water was not safe to drink. However, in 1740, Admiral Edward Vernon introduced a mixture of one part rum to four parts water, which was flavoured with lemon juice and brown sugar, the lemon provided vitamin C to stave off scurvy.

The Admiral wore a cloak made of waterproof fabric called grogram, so he was known to the men as Old Grog; hence, the ration of rum-mix was eventually known as “grog”.

By Steamboat Ken (aka Ken Goodman)

T

he infamous Walrus was engaged in cane crushing, and sugar, molasses and rum production around the rivers of southeast Queensland during the years from 1865 to 1884. She was built in 1859 as a 64-tonne rigged schooner for a certain Captain Winship in Cleveland. The steam boilers and stern-wheel paddle propulsion were added to the 30-metre-by-5-metre-wide vessel later on.

A FLOATING SUGAR MILL

The Logan, Albert and Nerang districts’ river flats were ideal for growing sugar cane, and production boomed in the 1800s. By 1869, 22% of Queensland’s sugar was grown along the Logan, Albert and Nerang Rivers. By 1880, there were 19 mills in these districts. However, transport to the various mills was a problem, with no roads, so the Walrus provided a we-come-to-you service.

Three gentlemen, Scott, Dawson, and Scotsman Bosun, James Stewart, formed the Pioneer Floating Sugar Mill Company. They purchased the Walrus in 1868, and fitted her with two boilers, crushing equipment, and steam-heated evaporating pans to produce sugar.

When cane farmers knew the Walrus, the floating sugar mill, was making its way along their river, farmers would harvest their cane and take it down to their landings. The crew would pull alongside, tie up, and crush the cane to produce sugar juice – which was then boiled in steam-heated evaporation pans until sugar crystals formed.

The mill – capable of crushing two tonnes of sugar a day on deck – was manufactured by an old Brisbane foundry with the unfortunate name of Smellie & Company. Their heritage-listed building, complete with signage, is still there, just near the Port Office Hotel in the city. (Note: Ken Goodman, in fact, has a twin-cylinder steam pump from the same company – probably not from the Walrus, although it was obtained in the Beenleigh district many moons ago, so you never know.)

was aged for two to three weeks. After having caramel added to give it colour, it was ready for sale.

In 1869, they received a distiller’s licence to make the rum, becoming the only licensed floating distillery.

But apparently, the number of gallons they declared to pay the government excise differed from that actually produced. Over three years from 1869 to 1871, the official declared production of rum from the Walrus was 18,621 gallons (84,725 litres), but actual production was unofficially a lot more. In the same era, as Southern Moreton Bay Islanders may be aware, there was a rum distillery on Macleay Island, officially known as salt works.

BOSUN STEWART The steamboat Walrus under the command of Bosun Stewart initially travelled along the Brisbane River and Bulimba Creek, crushing cane at various farms. The farmers just had to get their canes to the riverbanks, and the Walrus would do the rest. Sugar and rum proliferated.

The Bosun then brought her down to the Logan, Albert and Nerang Rivers, and rum production started in earnest.

The “G men” (the government excise blokes) had trouble catching up with the Walrus in that area. There were no roads, only tracks that were impassable in wet weather. If they went looking up the Albert River, Bosun would be hard at it, distilling up the Nerang River.

Eventually, it became all too hard for the G men, and Bosun’s licence was revoked in 1872. But this did not stop Bosun. He continued to travel the rivers in the old Walrus, crushing and distilling. This activity kept going until 1884, when he ran Walrus aground on the north bank of the Albert River, just down from the present-day Pacific Highway.

It is not documented what happened to Bosun. He probably went on a holiday to give his liver a rest, and the Walrus eventually faded into history.

The pot still, however, went on a new journey. Francis Gooding and John Davy, who owned a farm named Beenleigh, after their home in Devon, built a distillery using the pot still from Walrus. They named the distillery Beenleigh Rum Distillery, and it is still in the same location to this day. Rumour has it that Bosun sold them the 500-gallon pot still; however, another theory, claimed in the history book of the distillery, is that they found the Walrus washed up on their river bank, diligently tried to find the owner of the still, and eventually just kept it to set up their own distillery.

In any case, the Walrus and its pot still do have a fascinating story to tell.

KEN, THE LARRIKIN, AND THE RUM Ken Goodman is a steamboat enthusiast, and one old steamboat that he has always been interested in is the Walrus. The captain and crew of the Walrus were larrikins, it appears, so that’s maybe why they appeal to this good-natured Queensland boatie.

In the 1970’s, Ken lived in Beenleigh, and one of the local tricks was to go down to the distillery and buy the old 60-gallon Hogs Head wooden kegs, after the seven-year-old matured rum had been drained from them. They cost $20. Some people cut them in half for flower pots but Ken took them home, poured two gallons of water in, sealed them up, and rolled them round the yard every few days. Amazingly, in about a month, the keg produced 2 gallons of pure rum, at a very cheap cost Ken adds. One keg Ken brought home still had about half a pint in it. So he was off to a good start even before he began his primitive production method.

A FLOATING DISTILLERY The Walrus crew found they were producing more steam than needed. So rather than letting good steam go to waste, a ‘moonshine’ pot still was fitted to produce rum from the molasses that was a byproduct of the sugar-making process.

It became Australia’s first floating distillery. By all accounts, the Walrus rum was a fairly potent drop. It 74

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BOAT FEATURE

Boating in COVID-19 times The 2020 Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show was postponed with event organisers announcing a scaled down show in November and the main event returning in 2021.

COVID-19 has impacted all sectors of our economy, and the boating industry is no exception.

PATRICK MOLNAR looks back at the impacts of the pandemic on the local marine industry businesses as well as on recreational boating in general.

A

ustralia has proven to be one of the most efficient countries in fighting the coronavirus.

Predictions from the Australian government that the virus will be a pandemic even came two weeks before the World Health Organisation made it official. So as the situation escalated, Australia closed its borders to all non-residents and non-citizens, then entered a nationwide lockdown. Businesses were categorised into essential and non-essential, which resulted in the suspension of several business operations around the country. New restrictions then came into effect in various states.

Queensland streets and waterways became empty as people were urged to stay home and only leave their homes to obtain food, receive medical treatment, exercise, and to perform work. Recreational boating and fishing became prohibited.

BOATING RESTRICTIONS AND IMPACT ON BUSINESSES As restrictions came into effect, ventures had to come up with innovative ideas to stay in business. While people could not personally inspect their desired boats the traditional way anymore, many businesses started offering virtual tours of their boats. To adhere to social distancing rules, several boat retailers packed their websites with ready-made interactive tours of their selection, enabling potential boat owners to inspect boats from every aspect. Additionally, one-on-one video calls also became available to answer any customer questions.

Online boat sales is not a new phenomenon. However, with the current pandemic, many businesses decided to move their boats online. In today’s world, online shopping has become a significant part of many people’s lives. Apart from virtual tours and video calls, people were also given the option to inspect and test their desired boat in person, by appointment, even with the restrictions in place, accompanied by one sales representative.

The virus had no mercy over boat shows either. 2020 had a promising line-up of prestigious boating events around Australia. As the situation escalated at the beginning of the year, news about postponed boat shows started circulating. In Europe, for example, Ancasta, one of the region’s biggest boat retailers, held its first 10-day virtual boat show on 14-23 April, where they showcased their new boat selection by offering access to boat specifications, 360-degree view, videos, and dedicated staff. The online boat show attracted more than

seven thousand visitors from all over the globe. With the success of their first virtual boat show, they held another one on 21-25 May for their used boat selection.

On the Gold Coast, Riviera immediately announced its online boat show at the beginning of April. This came immediately after the annual Riviera Festival of Boating and the Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show were postponed. At that time, Riviera owner Rodney Longhurst said that they have seen real desire for family and friends wanting to get back on the water, and that Riviera owners were telling them that they were “keen to return to their much-loved boating way of life when they can.”

While all other major boat shows in Australia have been postponed in 2020, the dates for 2021 have already been set. This should be positive news for those looking forward to participating at these events. Many local boating and marina businesses had to come up with innovative ideas to keep their businesses afloat during these difficult times.

Karla Herbert-Evans, owner of Nautical Training and Marine Services on the Gold Coast, explained that her business was immediately affected when Maritime Safety Queensland notified them to suspend all class, one-on-one, or group onboard practicals due to social distancing restrictions.

“These restrictions terminated all income for nearly two months. When the initial lockdown came into place my business was at a premium with a lot of enquiry and active Nautical Training sessions and marine services. I used the downtime to initiate back-end office work, build a new website, and work on new nautical training programmes for navigation and practicals,” shares Karla. “Once Marine Safety Queensland advised we could resume training, operational conditions were tailored accordingly to demonstrate compliance with measures in place to ensure that ‘as far as reasonably practicable’, social distancing guidelines were adhered to. Initially, I believed we needed the heavy restrictions but realising that you are a ‘non-essential worker’ was character-building, and I was very relieved personally and financially when we were permitted to resume business.”

Staying in business during the lockdown was only possible by making harsh decisions.

Charmaine Webb, marketing manager at The Boat Works, explained how they managed to keep the boatyard’s doors open during the three months. “We needed to continue to stay afloat, so we went out with a boating stimulus offer of half-priced shed, hardstand, and marina. This enabled us to maintain our staff levels, assist the 60+ tenants onsite, help the chandlery keep selling supplies to the boating public, and to keep the doors open and avoid having to shut the facility down. The chandlery, Marine Trade Supplies, did record numbers over the three months, which was staggering,” states Charmaine.

The importance of assisting the broader boating community and boating business operators on the Gold Coast was just as important during the lockdown as before. The Boat Works and its team implemented COVID-19 guidelines to cope with the situation. “Our guidelines will more than likely stay in place for general wellbeing and hygiene practices. We are a unique

During lockdown The Boat Works stayed afloat by promoting a boating stimulus offer of half-priced shed, hardstand, and marina. Now they are prospering.

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Karla Herbert-Evans, owner of Nautical Training and Marine Services, explained that her business was immediately affected. She was eventually permitted to resume training within the guidelines.

Shutting down the Southport Yacht Club was difficult. The club has since resumed operations post-lockdown and recently announced a major event Sail Paradise on 4th-7th January, 2021.

environment being outdoors over 55 acres with 50+ individual sheds and wide expansive hardstands allowing adequate spacing between the vessels,” adds Charmaine.

Similarly, yacht clubs, where hospitality is a great part of their business, faced serious consequences. Brett James, general manager at Southport Yacht Club, explained the club’s directions when the lockdown was announced. “The Board had three clear directions.

We need to keep the club finances under control, look after all staff, and look after Club members,” states Brett. “After the lockdown was declared, our immediate actions were looking at all costs, and applying for any grant available to the club. Uncertainty in the beginning and shutting down the club was difficult.” The club has since resumed operations post-lockdown and have implemented rules in place to comply with current government health and safety standards.

As a response to the inundation of information on COVID-19, the Boating Industry Association (BIA) also established a dedicated webpage for its member boating businesses, providing them with the relevant statements and facts relating to the boating industry to assist in safe operations, and to protect the health and wellbeing of the workers.

The Australian government further introduced stimulus packages to address the Australian economic challenges of the pandemic and to support business investments. The packages aimed to provide business assistance to keep employees in jobs, and other financial support.

BOATING AND WELLBEING Recreational boating was banned on 30 March, although boat owners could still use the waters for essential purposes such as fishing for food, travelling for work, or getting groceries if there were no other means.

While being out in the open water has significant positive impacts on people’s well being, boaties could not use their boats for leisure activities for over a month. The nationwide lockdown resulted in promising numbers that allowed Australia to “flatten the coronavirus curve”. In Queensland, restrictions were eased from May, which meant that boat owners could take out their boats for recreational purposes.

The fact that recreational boating was among a handful of activities that were allowed again after six weeks in Queensland, clearly reflects its importance for the community and its positive effects on one’s general wellbeing.

“Being on your boat is perhaps one of the safest places as you are effectively self-isolating in itself. The majority of our customers who are in the cruising community had exactly the same response,” says Charmaine Webb.

When Queensland and Western Australia announced the easing of restrictions beginning in May, Darren Vaux, BIA president, immediately stated that these announcements were good news for the boating public, businesses and jobs. “Recreational boating out in the fresh air and sunshine is good for mental and physical health and is a low-risk activity that a family can easily do whilst adhering to social distancing and hygiene rules.”

If we all continue practical physical distancing, maintaining good hygiene at all times, and following safe practices in our home and work environments, we have a great chance to keep Queensland in its promising state, and to ensure recreational boating continues for our personal wellbeing. To enhance its economic viability, perhaps, we have to continue to become wiser, more creative and more innovative with our way of life. We are not out of the woods yet, but we are on the right path.

Look for the BIA Member symbol Businesses throughout all segments of recreational boating can be found as members of the Boating Industry Association.

Boating Industry Association

These businesses have pledged to abide by the association’s Code of Practice.

Consider dealing with a BIA member first Look for the BIA member logo or visit our website

www.bia.org.au

BOATGOLDCOAST.COM. AU

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BOAT PROTOCOL

Etiquette and safety at the

Fuel Pump

By Nic Welch

Photos of Runaway Bay Marina

R

efuelling a vessel may seem like an intuitive task. However, there are still some simple procedures you should always follow to reduce the risk of fire or pollution: Moor the vessel securely to the refuelling wharf or pontoon, but with the ability to let go quickly if a fire occurs.

Remove all portable tanks out of the vessel for refuelling.

Remove all passengers from the vessel.

Do not use a mobile phone on the fuel wharf.

Keep a fire extinguisher nearby. Take note of fire extinguishers located at fuelling wharf.

Eliminate all naked flames such as pilot lights in gas hot water systems and gas refrigerators.

Close any LPG tanks.

Isolate the vessel’s batteries, and switch off any marine radios if powered by a separate circuit.

Shut down all engines.

No smoking.

Ensure your deck fill plate is earthed to your fuel tank, and that your fuel breathers are clear.

Block deck scuppers where possible.

Close all hatches, doors, and windows to prevent fumes building up inside the cabin.

Ground the fuel hose nozzle to the filler pipe to prevent static electricity build-up.

Constantly monitor the tank being filled and fill slowly towards the end.

Pay attention to the fuel breathers to ensure tanks are not being overfilled.

After refuelling, reopen all hatches, doors, and windows.

Run blowers to ventilate any fuel vapours prior to starting the engine.

SAFETY WARNINGS Most fuel gauges nowadays rely upon an electronic sender unit mounted inside the fuel tank to allow the dash mounted fuel gauge to display the current fuel level. It may seem logical to leave your vessel's battery connected to monitor the fuel level on the gauge when refuelling. However, in doing so, you are increasing the risk of an explosion due to possible sparks from your vessel's electric circuits. It is safer to use a sounding stick or tape to physically measure the fuel level in the tank, rather than leaving the battery connected.

Refuelling a jetski on the water should be done with great care. If the fuel cap is on the portside of the jetski, tie up to the jetty on the port side. Fill carefully.

Do not overfill to ensure there is no fuel entering the water. Use your ski’s

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battery isolation switch if it has one, and once again, don’t be tempted to turn the ignition key to check the fuel gauge.

If fuel spills into your vessel’s bilge, do not start engines or operate bilge pumps. Use a fuel absorbent mat or spill kit to remove fuel from the bilge. If fuel spills outside of the vessel into the water, immediately contact the harbour master or fuel wharf operator. Do not use oil dispersants in the water unless advised by the local authority.

As a courtesy to other boaties, don’t hold up the jetty while waiting or picking up passengers. If you need to do so, ask the attendant if it is ok to do so. Boat owners exhibit many different levels of driving competency and larger vessels take time to manoeuvre, so be mindful of boats waiting to get onto the fuel wharf. Don't push in. Be patient!

In a worst-case scenario where a fuel fire occurs, move all persons to safety and use your readily available fire extinguisher, pointing the retardant at the base of the fire. Fight the fire using a sweeping action. While a dry powder (whiteband) fire extinguisher is ok, foam (blue-band) extinguishers work best for fuel fires. Do not use water on a fuel fire (including a red-band water fire extinguisher), because fuel floats on water, and the water will simply spread the fuel and cause a wider fire. If the fire cannot be contained, consider untying your vessel and pushing your boat away from the fuel wharf and other vessels.

A NOTE ABOUT STATIC ELECTRICAL CHARGE (Source: The Australian Boating Manual, Capt Dick Gandy) Static is the electricity produced on dissimilar materials through physical contact and separation. A spark generated by it can ignite flammable vapour. A static electrical charge can build up during refuelling when the fuel moves through a pipe. The fuel may become negatively charged, and the pipe positively charged. The negatively charged fuel, in turn, causes the tank to become positively charged. The risk of ignition thus continues.

The risk also exists when sounding, sampling, or washing a fuel tank. The positively charged sounding tape or the sampling container strikes against the negatively charged fine particles of fuel in the tank. A positively charged water nozzle may react with the negatively charged oily residue during the washing operation.

To safeguard against build-up of static electric charge during refuelling, particularly in vessels with flexible filling pipes, the tank and the hose coupling should be earthed with an anti-static ground wire.

AUG - NOV 2020

FUEL STOP S

© Copyright Commonwealth of Australia 2020, Bureau of Meteorology.

F I N D T R U S T WO R T H Y L O C A L T R A D E S FA S T S E A R C H B OAT I N G A N D L I F E S T Y L E

The Bureau of Meteorology gives no warranty of any kind whether express, implied, statutory or otherwise in respect to the availability, accuracy, currency, completeness, quality or reliability of the information or that the information will be fit for any particular purpose or will not infringe any third party Intellectual Property rights. The Bureau's liability for any loss, damage, cost or expense resulting from use of, or reliance on, the information is entirely excluded.

BOAT GOLD COAST

RE-FUEL RE-FRESH RE-STOCK

ON-WATER MARINE FUEL LOCATIONS, GOLD COAST TO MORETON BAY. Open seven days a week, these locations also offer a boating lifestyle metres from your vessel. Enjoy waterside cafes, bait and tackle, nearby shopping, chandlery for all your onboard equipment, while accessing a complete range of maintenance services. Petrol, Diesel, Pump-Out Service.

MARINERS COVE MARINA - MAIN BEACH

Refueling facility for vessels up to 55m, ice, bait and basic groceries. Full amenities, including toilets, showers and laundry. Marina berths for vessels from 10m to 30m. PH: 5591 2800 marinerscovemarina.com.au 27°58.218'S 153°25.460'E MARINA FUELS AND TACKLE - RUNAWAY BAY

A family-owned business operating on the Gold Coast for over 30 years. Open 7 days.

8:00am till 5:00pm, PULP, ULP, Diesel and Oils.

Snacks, Ice, Bait and Tackle.

PH: 5577 2966 marinafuels.business.site 27°53.936'S 153°24.190'E SANCTUARY COVE MARINA - SANCTUARY COVE

· 24/7 Premium (PULP) & Diesel fuels for tinnies to superyachts · 24/7 Bait & free day-visitor berths · Dock shop open 9am–4pm daily · Marine Village with restaurants, cafes, retail and services · Full marina amenities & security PH: 5577 6069 sanctuarycove.com/marina 27°51.071'S 153°21.795'E HORIZON SHORES MARINA - WOONGOOLBA

www.boatgoldcoast.com.au/ business-directory BOATGOLDCOAST.COM. AU

· ULP, Premium & Diesel · Gas & Water · Bait, Ice & Chandlery · Licensed Café · Open: 7.30am to 5pm, 7 days PH: 5546 2300 horizonshores.com.au 27°45.133'S 153°20.856'E 79

BOAT PRODUCTS

QUALITY MARINE

CLEANING & PROTECTION FOR YOUR BOAT THIS SPRING

I

n Australia, we have some of the harshest weather conditions. Boats that are not well looked after can lose their value much faster. So, a regular clean is key to retaining the value of your high-priced asset. Many boat owners appreciate their seafaring investment, but are not equipped to show that appreciation through proper care and maintenance.

CleanAWORX is a Gold Coast-based brand, specialising in developing the absolute best quality Australian-made marine cleaning and protection products that simply work.

CleanAWORX products are perfect for use on all size boats, superyachts, commercial boats, inflatable boats, jet skis, cars, bikes, plus much more. Below, we introduce some of our quality Australian-made products that will help you take care of your most cherished boat’s cleanliness and surface protection needs.

WASH & WAX: BOATIES PREMIUM GOLD cleans and washes your boat and leaves a wax protective barrier which assists with surface protection.

The product utilises a biodegradable polymer additive, which provides improved gloss retention on all gelcoat and paintwork. Once washed and waxed, your boat will have a streak-free, clean surface. The high beading characteristics assist in water removal and spotless drying.

SUPASEAL-IT is a blend of high-gloss carnauba wax, Polymers, Teflon and, UV+ absorbers. It is a liquid long-life sealer polish, providing high-gloss shine protection that lasts against the harsh Australian environment. Easy on and easy off.

CLEARS CLEANER & PROTECT cleans and protects your expensive clears to extend their life, and ensure the best crystal-clear views through your clears. The product has a sun-protection formula that is UV-resistant that also extends the life of stitching and zips.

RUST OFF GEL is a unique gel that rapidly removes rust and rust staining from all stainless steel, 2-pack paint, gelcoat and more. It can be applied to all vertical, horizontal, upside-down surfaces, and will not run, but simply stays on the surface where applied.

STAINLESS STEEL POLISH WITH WAX PROTECTION cleans, restores, shines, brightens and protects stainless steel, aluminium, copper and bronze. It has a unique blend of super fine polishing alumina with added long-life wax protection.

MULTI-PURPOSE CLEANER is a commercial strength, biodegradable, highly concentrated product that will remove grease, oil, dirt, stains, adhesives and other residues from interiors' hard surfaces.

INTERIOR AND TRIM PROTECTION enhances and protects the appearance of high-end furnishings, 2-pack paint, vinyl, leather, rubbers, plastics and more. The product protects against the damaging effects of atmospheric pollutants and ultraviolet radiation.

Applying a multipurpose protector with a non-stick finish produces an attractive glossy new look.

TEAK DECK WASH assists with keeping your teak looking cleaner and natural for longer.

It is corrosion-inhibited and biodegradable. The product, cleans and restores to a brighter and natural teak look.

INFLATABLE BOAT CLEANER easily cleans exhaust soot, airborne and industrial pollution, and removes salt, brown mineral stains, grease and grime.

After washing, applying INFLATABLE BOAT PROTECT UV+ enhances and protects the appearance of your inflatable boat. It is suitable for Hypalon, PVC, rubber, plastic, and vinyl.

It offers high UV protection, and it also has anti-static properties that helps extend the life of your inflatable boat.

POOP-ETA and DUNNYCLEAN are bio-enzymatic cleaning liquids that create a good bacteria ecosystem inside your toilet system.

Dunny-Clean is used to clean the toilet head bowl, toilet seat, lid, fittings, etc. Poop-ETA is a liquid concentrate that is added to the toilet and black water holding tank system.

It promotes good bacteria that eat away at the organic matter inside the toilet system and holding tank, reducing organic waste, organic solids, organic blockages, crystallisation, calcium, and bad odour.

If you would like more information on CleanAWORX products, please contact Jeff on 0449 266 673. sales@cleanawerx.com.au www.cleanaworx.com.au

Teak cleaners in action BEFORE

AFTER

Rust Off Gel in Action

Advanced Cleaning Technology

Enquiries email: info@cleanawerx.com.au

RUST OFF GEL Teak Cleaning Series Clears Cleaner in

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extreme action

• Cleans and restores teak decking

Rust Off Gel: Rust Stain and Oxidation Remover • Cleans restores and brightens stainless steel • Brush on, soak and rinse off

AUG - NOV 2020

BOAT GOLD COAST

BOAT MASTERS AT HOPE ISLAND

ONE-STOP-SHOP FOR ALL THINGS BOATING

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ne of the northern Gold Coast's most comprehensive marine service centres, complete with travel lift, has experienced an increase in demand from boat owners using the Covid-19 inspired downtime to have work done on their vessels.

Boat Masters, on John Lund Drive at Hope Island, provides the complete range of boat service and maintenance services to owners of all vessels.

"We are quite literally a one-stop-shop for boaties with the complete range of professionals operating here, covering everything from service requirements through to antifouling and major refurbishment projects.

cruise from the south arm of the Coomera River and close to the Broadwater, so people don't have to travel all the way up past Sanctuary Cove to reach a service marina," he said.

" With our travel lift capable of lifting 65 tonnes and up to 80 foot vessels combined with the skilled tradespeople we have on hand, we can complete any job required."

"We have also implemented upscale sanitising procedures as per the Covid-19 recommended guidelines and even spray each boat down with surface sanitiser before the owner takes delivery after works have been done.

Graham said qualified shipwrights, marine electrical experts, engineers with both petrol and diesel motor experience, upholsterers, stainless steel manufacturers, fibreglass experts, and a list of other trades were at the disposal of Boat Masters' customers.

Boat Masters' Manager Graham Fraser said there had been a noticeable increase in the number of boat owners seeking to have works carried out.

"And of course that could be partly driven by our special offer of 50 percent off hard stand and sheds, when there is availability," he said.

"The other big thing we have over other service facilities is that we are located just a twenty-minute

"Now is a good time to get works completed on your vessel in readiness for when life returns to normal post the lockdowns." www.boatmasters.com.au

Award winning boat builders, race team technicians, and an undercover marina, now available for all makes and models 15 foot to 70 ton. Our service department offers free quotes and inspections on all factory services, including:

UPHOLSTERY RE CARPETING ELECTRONICS HYDRAULIC SWIM PLATFORMS ELECTRICAL MERCRUISER GENUINE PARTS

GPS & SOUNDER UPGRADES TENDERS DAVIT SYSTEMS ADDITIONS & ALTERATIONS ANTI FOULING ENGINE SERVICE

GENERATOR SERVICE PROP SPEED UNDERWATER LIGHTS DECK WASH SYSTEMS DETAILING POLISHING UPGRADE INTERIORS TO LATEST DESIGN

LOT 7, JOHN LUND DRIVE, HOPE ISLAND, QLD 4212 SERVICE@BOATMASTERS.COM.AU

BOATGOLDCOAST.COM. AU

+61 7 5509 3618 BOATMASTERS.COM.AU

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BOAT PRODUCTS

WELL ANCHORED AUSTRALIAN MADE BOAT ANCHORS VS. IMPORTS

A

nchor Right Australia have been designing and developing new boat anchor concepts for over twenty-five years. Our Super SARCA was a world’s first, true multi-purpose anchor design. We know this because of our patent research. SARCA – meaning Sand And Reef Combination Anchor – is by far the most popular fishing boat anchor throughout Australia, and possibly New Zealand. Many boat builders now fit them as standard.

The Super SARCA has been servicing many types of boats – pleasure boats, live-aboard yachts, and commercial vessels up to 300 tonnes. The larger models up to 225kg are seen regularly on many of our very large trawlers and ferries in Australia and New Zealand.

Twelve years back, we designed the incredible SARCA Excel. Why? Simply because the roll bar on the Super SARCA was restrictive on some boats, so we have made the Excel fit just about any vessel type.

Once again, due to Anchor Right’s experience of understanding anchor design and performance, the Excel fast became an anchor that created enormous interest and rave reviews on many forums and blogs say it is “the best anchor” they have used.

The Water Police requested that the Excels be fitted to their new large police boat in Tasmania. Their choice was based on their research of Anchor Right’s history of performance, testing, and typeapproval certification. The feedback from the general boaties was the sealer.

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What has become a real surprise, for Anchor Right is our demountable alloy Excel model. It weighs half of the steel versions. We have seen an avalanche of interest and sales in the alloy version since we launched this model. Fast setting in multiple sea beds, exceptional holding power, easy to break down for storage, this lightweight storable anchor also makes a great option when racing a yacht, used as a ketch, or a second back-up anchor. Customers are telling us that the performance between the steel model and the alloy is no different.

We know for a fact that the Alloy Excel puts out the same holding power as our galvanised steel model, which is type-approved as a Super High Holding Power anchor. We have carried out hundreds of hours of testing on the steel, stainless steel, and alloy Excel versions.

SARCA Excel Alloy anchor in stowable position

Anchor Right Australia now share in a very large part of anchoring systems in the market. We are not the cheapest, and certainly not the dearest, but are proudly Australian-made, using Australian steel.

We lead the world in designing and producing new methods of anchor testing. Our success has been built on trust, quality and designs that work better.

We now have many challengers competing in new anchor designs, and this only helps to keep us sharp by leading the way.

Our biggest achievement is to know that we have gained the trust of many thousands of customers. We at Anchor Right Australia say a big thanks to all who have chosen our anchors over the many imports. This shows real support for an Australian-made product.

SARCA Excel Alloy anchor in operational position

AUG - NOV 2020

BOAT PRODUCTS

New Releases TOHATSU OUTBOARD RANGE Japanese designed and manufactured

Tohatsu four-stroke 3.5 benefits: Large front and back carrying handles, 3-Way Storage Positions. Unique engine oil breather system , light and compact, designed with proven technology, greatly reduced induction noise for a quieter ride, sacrificial anode that can protect the engine from electrolysis.

Easy operation and handling: NEW PORTABLE FOUR-STROKE RANGE TOHATSU ALL-NEW MFS115A The basic design and product concepts of this all-new MFS115A are based on the philosophy of Tohatsu's best-seller models, the MFS40/50/60A. On top of the legacy passed on to it, what makes MFS115A unique is the second-to-none torque density due to the industry-first technology.

This industry-first unique design exhaust manifold is the first applied to outboard motors in its class, contributing to extremely high torque generation like no other 4-stroke outboard motor on the market. It makes it much easier and more exciting for the users to reach planing speed. Tohatsu Corporation's mission is to deliver a smarter and more exciting boating experience.

All-new MFS75/90/100/115A are now available with the MFS115A available in either colour.

BOATGOLDCOAST.COM. AU

Following the release of the MFS3.5C comes the MFS4/5/6D with similar design attributes such as 3-way storage positions, overcoming the worry of oils spills, practical effective ergonomic carry handles on front and rear making the unit feel lighter to transport, and modern, sleek, clean and edgy aesthetic design By adding these sort-after characteristics to these popular four-stroke portables, Tohatsu has taken their outboards to a new level of practicality. For most users, however, it's more about simplicity and ease and pleasure of boating. That's what counts in today's busy and stressful environment.

The MFS4/5/6D and popular 6hp Ultra long Sail Drive retain all the important features of the previous model which will ensure continued popularity.

For more about the Tohatsu range contact Main Stream Marine Ph: 5546 2280.

Digital CD ignition system for easier starting, quicker throttle response and smoother trolling, forward-neutral shifting with 360 steering, easy to check oil gauge, adjustable steering friction device for reduced effort, throttle grip control fast idle choke system allowing easier manual choke operation.

Fundamentals for user convenience & reliability: Thermostatically controlled cooling system, fourpoint dampening system, reduced vibration, high grade marine aluminium alloy provides protection against corrosion, zinc coating on internal water passages for corrosion resistance, built in 1ltr tank.

Protection: Safety lanyard and throttle grip control

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BOAT PRODUCTS

NEW ZEUS 3S GLASS HELM SAILING SYSTEM Next-Level Response Times with Full HD Clarity

B&G®, the world’s leading sailing navigation and instrument specialist, announced today the launch of the new Zeus 3s Glass Helm multifunction display system, offering unbeatable speed and performance for large yachts.

Available in 24-, 19- and 16-inch models, Zeus 3s Glass Helm can be purchased as a system pack or in display-only packs. System packs include a display, GPS, keypad and accessories.

Supreme sailing performance - The new Zeus 3s Glass Helm displays has twice the previous version's performance, which delivers category leading response times for incredibly smooth transitions. Giving you instant access to the sailing and system information you need, as you need it, no matter the conditions, all thanks to the new iMX 8 integrated six-core processor.

Create your own custom helm layouts to suit any activity, and switch seamlessly between layouts in an instant. Low-profile glass helm styling conceals and protects the powerful core, and complements any helm design from ultra-modern to timeless classic.

Ultimate Clarity with Intuitive Touchscreen Control - Zeus3s Glass Helm gives you the ultimate view of your sailing and system data with Full High-Definition displays designed for larger sailing yachts. The ultra-bright 24-, 19- or 16-inch displays are ideal for both indoor and outdoor installations. Wide viewing angles keep the screen visible, even if you’re wearing polarised sunglasses. The improved processor speed gives you the option to seamlessly combine up to six panels in a split-screen layout without delays.

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Navigate charts and use your sailing features such as RacePanel and SailSteer, whilst also viewing all your connected systems, such as autopilot, radar and sonar, with a single touch.

Fully connected The Zeus 3s Glass Helm System Pack contains everything you need to start building a glass-helm system, including a ZC2 Remote Controller. The Remote Controller provides keypad control of up to six displays, perfect for a multi-display helm layout. Wired Ethernet, NMEA 2000®, and J1939 networking provide almost limitless integration options, from vessel-wide display systems to radar, sonar, engine integration, and much more.

● Zeus3s Glass Helm - premium larger boat MFD solution ● The fastest and most responsive B&G System yet ● Large wide format touchscreen displays (16”/19”/24)” – all in Full HD 1920x1080

● Best-in-class visibility from all angles with and without polarised glasses

● Connects to B&G’s performance network modules for

the ultimate offshore performance: Halo Radar, Autopilot, ForwardScan™, NMEA 2000 and 0183, Integrated Pilot Control

● Full suite of sailing features: Sailsteer, PredictWind, RacePanel, LayLines and SailingTime

● Extended visibility w/ six-panel split screen option ● Built in Wi-Fi, HDMI and Video Inputs Available from local dealer www.aseamarine.com.au AUG - NOV 2020

BOAT PRODUCTS

marineenergy.com.au

IMPORTER & DISTRIBUTOR

Of Generators & Aftermarket Engine Parts M

arine Energy Systems, located at the Boat Works Boatyard, is an importer and distributor of marine generators and replacement engine parts. Operating for 15 years on the Gold Coast and Brisbane, Marine Energy Systems was first known for representing Westerbeke generators and engines.

Supplying aftermarket marine engine parts to the public and trade has since become a strong focus of the company. The mission is to bring wholesale prices to the consumer and keep the cost of boating as low as possible.

Over the years, they have built a strong line-up of brands focussed on that principle of delivering quality products while keeping prices down.

components supplied by the engine manufacturer. The boat owner is winning on price and quality at the same time.

MOTA (France), a leader in cooling systems in the demanding market of OEM marine engine manufacturers, has made their standard range of heat exchangers and oil coolers available direct to the consumer through their new brand identity ‘MOTA Industrial Cooling’. This impressive range of marine coolers is now in stock with Marine Energy Systems. A popular new product from MOTA is their replacement intercooler for SeaDoo jet skis — a robust design with copper nickel tubes to withstand the harsh marine environment.

Between Ancor (Italy) and JMP (South Korea), they have probably the largest range of replacement seawater pumps and impellers, covering all the major engine manufacturers including Yanmar, Volvo Penta, and Cummins engines.

In a departure from engine products, DeFOUL™ has been a steady favourite with the consumer. This anti-fouling paint remover is environmentally-friendly, safe on gel coats and most substrates, and makes the task of removing antifouling paint much easier for the boat owner.

HDI marine exhaust components (USA) have been a standout brand for Marine Energy Systems. All HDI exhaust components are cast 316 stainless steel, in most cases offering a much superior product than the exhaust

Marine Energy Systems’ latest venture is into aftermarket service parts for outboard engines, the most represented section of engines on the Gold Coast. At this time, impellers, pump kits, service parts/filters are stocked for Yamaha,

MARINE ENERGY SYSTEMS

Suzuki, Honda, Tohatsu, Mercury and Johnson/Evinrude.

Westerbeke’s industry leading low-CO EFI technology generators meet the stringent Product Emissions Standards Rules coming into force in Australia on 1 July 2020. These NMMA Innovation Award Winning gensets are expected to experience strong growth in the coming years.

Call into Marine Energy Systems at the Boat Works, give them a call, or visit their online shop. Boat Gold Coast readers can enter ‘BG10’ as a discount code for a 10% discount on online purchases*. *Limited offer. One (1) per customer. Expires 14 November.

Applies to parts in stock only, not for use in conjunction with any other offer* Brands represented: ANCOR, Baysan Marine gearboxes, DeFOUL™ antifouling paint remover, Fuel-Guard, HDI Marine Exhaust Components, JMP Marine Pumps, Jubilee® Hose Clamps, MOTA Industrial Cooling, Mr Cool, Maestrini, March Pumps, RECMAR aftermarket marine parts, Westerbeke engines & generators.

www.marineenergy.com.au

Aftermarket Parts for Marine Engines: Yanmar, Volvo Penta, Mercruiser, Cummins...

Service Parts, Heat Exchangers & Oil Coolers, Manifolds & Risers, Gearboxes, Engine Mounts, Fuel Pumps, Jubilee® Clamps, Starters & Alternators Seawater Pumps & Impellers, CAST 316 Stainless Steel Exhaust Elbows

Aftermarket Parts for Outboards: Yamaha, Suzuki, Honda, Mercruiser, Johnson / Evinrude...

Service Parts, Water pump kits, Impellers, Oil & Fuel Filters Available in:

Water-based and fully biodegradable

Easy to Use

Safe on gel coat

19 Litre ; 9.5 Litre ; 3 Litre Containers Cleaner & Greener

(General Guide 19L for 32ft craft)

Located At Photo by John Groom

Anti-foul Paint Remover DeFOULTM

UNIT J-2, THE BOAT WORKS BOATYARD, 1 BOATWORKS DRIVE, COOMERA. QLD 4209. TEL: 07 5502 7771 BOATGOLDCOAST.COM. AU

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BOAT PRODUCTS

SOLAS Propellers

COMPATIBLE WITH ENGINES MERCURY, HONDA, SUZUKI, YAMAHA, JOHNSON, EVINRUDE, TOHATSU, VOLVO PENTA

I

n the world of propeller design and manufacturing, Solas is regarded as one of the leading brands for all types of engines and boats. Founded in 1985

by Dr Solas Y.J. Lin in Taiwan, Solas has built its reputation over the years on the basis of rigorous testing, innovative designs and quality-controlled manufacturing processes.

Every propeller is obviously a critical part of any boat design and performance, a vital element in the process of translating motor power into forward propulsion. While researching through the long list of options from Mercury, Honda, Suzuki, Yamaha, Johnson, Evinrude, Tohatsu, and Volvo Penta, choosing the right propeller for any particular hull and engine combination is something of a “black art”, which must take account a host of variables such as the type of engine and size, the boat design, where it will be used and for what purpose, what sort of loads will be carried, and how they are distributed.

Most customers don’t realise that with the right propeller specification, they can achieve far stronger boating performance than what they are used to. There is also a bewildering array of different propellers on the market

from which to choose, spanning different materials, types and designs. While this choice helps to ensure there is a propeller for pretty much every boating situation, it can also make the selection process much harder.

Not sure if your boat is reaching its maximum potential in performance and efficiency? Are you running the most effective propeller for your purpose? What’s the benefit of running a stainless steel or aluminium propeller? Would you be better off using a 3-blade or 4-blade propeller? Just want that peace of mind?

All these questions can be answered case-by-case. Solas distributors have dedicated teams of propeller specialists with decades of experience in propulsion to assist customers get exactly what they require with high performance Solas options!

With Solas Propellers available from both All Marine Spares (www.allmar.com. au) for eastern states and Just Propellers WA (www.propellers.com.au) for Western Australia, we are one of the best-known and most highly-regarded propeller manufacturers in the global marine industry, producing a complete range of stainless steel and aluminium propellers for all outboard/inboard applications.

Engine manufacturers invest much time and effort in finding the best propeller match for their motors. But even then, there is an element of trial and error in getting it right for every single boat. That is where Solas distributors lead the way with their Propeller Performance Guarantee in Australia, which allows boat owners to find the most suitable Solas Propeller for their boats. This guarantees the results customers expect from such a high-quality propeller.

There is a list of Solas “knock-off” products that consumers should be wary of when purchasing. Our distributors have seen horrific results and damage occur when customers have been “duped” into buying what they thought was a Solas Propeller. If ever concerned, please don’t hesitate to reach out!

With locations in both eastern and western states, Solas distributors are available to provide consultations with boat owners to ensure the perfect propeller and the best performance of your boat right away.

Find Solas propellers at www.allmar.com.au for eastern states, and www.propellers.com.au for Western Australia for more details. We are at your service!

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AUG - NOV 2020

BOATGOLDCOAST.COM. AU

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BOAT PRODUCTS

Schenker

WATERMAKERS

A SUPPLY OF CLEAN WATER FOR YOUR BOAT GUARANTEED Compact Zen 30 feed pump

Zen 30 mounted flat and control panel

QUIET. ENERGY EFFICIENT. AFFORDABLE.

A

ward-winning company Schenker Watermakers draws on over twenty years of design and manufacturing expertise to create a range of compact, lightweight and energy-efficient desalination units that are quiet, affordable and ideal for small spaces.

Whether you’re heading offshore, up-river or simply want peace of mind, the new Zen range guarantees a safe supply of clean drinking water for your boat. A Schenker Watermaker means no more queuing at marinas and with an end to onboard water rationing. Everyone is happy.

The Schenker Watermaker engineers collaborated with boat owners to develop the Zen range. The result was a range of water makers designed with fewer components and composite materials to reduce weight, and redesigned seals using nanotechnology for superior reliability. Offering the flexibility of 30, 50 and 100 litre per hour units, Schenker Watermakers use an easy-to-operate remote automatic controller, allowing timed operation and the all-important flushing. The Zen 30, 50 and 100 units are available in 12 or 24VDC, and the Zen 100 is also available in a 230VAC version. Schenker Watermakers' Modular range also offers larger energy-efficient water maker up to 500 litres per hour.

The new patented device the Energy Recovery System results in very low energy consumption, low noise & vibration and high68 reliability Squadron at an affordable price.

Available from 30 to 500 lt per hour units to satisfy the small boat and yacht owner through to commercial and superyachts.

Boat owners can also opt for smaller units using the patented Energy Recovery System (ERS) allowing for even longer periods of quiet operation to meet all their water needs.

The Zen 30 uses a mere 110W of power and the Zen 100 only 400W, which is easily sustainable using just the house batteries and renewables. The Zen can be installed upright or on its side providing boat owners multiple positioning options onboard.

John, owner of ‘Marco Polo’, has been very happy with his Zen 30.

“We’d been looking for a water maker for some time but price, power consumption, size and noise put us off. The Zen 30 was both affordable and quiet. We run it during the day using just solar to keep the house batteries topped up. No more rationing of water has been fantastic for our family trips on the water!”

The new Zen range has made a huge impact on the international marine water maker market since its launch last year. So much so that the company has expanded into a larger purpose-built factory in Napoli, Italy. An increasing international network of sales and service centres makes the Schenker Watermaker a confident choice for every boat owner.

The Zen 30 (producing 30 litres per hour) starts at only $8,950. The Zen 50 costs $10,950 and finally the larger Zen 100 is $16,950.

SWS Pacific is the official distributor for Schenker Watermakers in Australia providing sales, service and support.

Slim Zen 30 fitted under a bunk 88

More at www.swspac.com or call 1 300 479 757 AUG - NOV 2020

BOAT PRODUCTS

Cruise for longer with a Schenker Watermaker

www.swspac.com 1300 479 757

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BOAT LIFTS & DOCKS

The ultimate DRY DOCKING system

he SeaPen is for boaties wanting T to keep their boat moored in the water without the cost of antifouling the hull and the hassle of trying to maintain a boat that lives in water.

Local company, DockPro, manufacture SeaPen for all types of vessels, both recreational and commercial vessels. Not only are they suited for power boats, SeaPens are also built to dock racing yachts, catamarans and monohull sailing boats up to 85ft.

The SeaPen Advanced Dry Docking Technology boasts the only water level docking multi-entry system, allowing the boat owner to reverse in, enter sideways, or at an angle, which makes it easier to moor no matter the situation. A vessel can have outboards, stern drives, jets, IPS, shaft, keel, you name it – the SeaPen can be used to dry dock at water level.

The SeaPen is an easy and safe docking system. There is no need to jump off the boat to grab mooring lines; you simply drive-in to dock. It acts as a boat catcher, allowing easy parking without the need for crew assistance. This makes boating enjoyable and safer for you and the family.

The SeaPen will keep your boat clean and dry, and it prevents barnacles and other growth on your hull. There is no longer a need to antifoul, which optimises boat performance and minimises the usual maintenance costs of cleaning the hull and props.

The SeaPen provides long-term protection of your boating investment. This docking system helps you keep your boat growth-free and ready to go, which makes it a great alternative to davits or lifts.

UNIQUE DESIGN, NEW MODEL - The 2020 SeaPen SQ has major design improvements over previous models. The company has redesigned and reengineered to improve performance and durability, and now comes standard with a remote control system.

Using 3D design technology modelling, SeaPen has had a complete redesign of the skin and rope mesh, which allows the contours to follow the hull to minimise water volume and improve depths for operation at the stern. A new square front is designed to suit the new wave of boat models and hull designs. This increases convenience by allowing 360° boat access, while being universal in nature to suit monohulls, catamarans and pontoon boats.

The patented rope mesh technology maximises the air space around the boat, allowing ventilation for your hull to breathe. The mesh also acts to protect the SeaPen skin from props and trim tabs, and allows the water to drain away quickly via the smart bilge system.

An advanced polymer skin technology prevents barnacle growth on the outside of the skin making it virtually maintenance-free, with generally no need to remove the SeaPen skin for cleaning.

REMOTE CONTROL OPERATION - The remote control operates the SeaPen within minutes with a press of a button, for fast, easy and convenient boat access to the water.

The new SeaPen Smart Monitoring System uses algorithmic technology to drain the water away from your boat and empty the SeaPen, turning on periodically to test for water and pump it dry. The system then goes back into standby mode.

For more information, contact Dockpro at sales@dockpro.com.au BOATGOLDCOAST.COM. AU

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BOAT PRODUCTS

NOW AVAILABLE

JOYSTICK PILOTING FOR 200-225HP V-6 ENGINES Up until now, Mercury’s Joystick Piloting for Outboards was only available for engines 250hp and above.

Created by Mercury and SeaStar Solutions, this new, fully-validated joystick package comes with a range of high-tech features you’d expect.

“With this offering, we are bringing joystick piloting to many more boaters,” said Justin d’Offay, Mercury Marine ANZP Product Manager for Engine Products.

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he joy of joystick piloting is now available to even more boaters across Australia and New Zealand.

Mercury Marine’s latest joystick technology is now available down to 200hp, so even more boat owners can enjoy effortless, intuitive piloting when fitting the following engines:

● V-6 3.4L 200hp and 225hp FourStroke outboards with DTS, as well as ● V-6 3.4L 200hp SeaPro outboards with DTS.

“In the past, only customers with 250hp engines and higher were able to experience the intuitive features of joystick piloting. Today, boaters who are looking to repower, or are interested in boat packages outfitted with dual 200hp and 225hp outboards will have access to joystick controls as well,” he said.

Mercury’s joystick technology enhances virtually every aspect of the boating experience, delivering effortless, intuitive boat control. With only a single hand needed to control throttle, shift and steer, you can simply and efficiently

move your boat in any direction – sideways, diagonally, forward, backward. You can even rotate in place. It means beginners to boating can dock or manoeuvre in tight spaces with confidence, despite wind and current.

In addition, the system allows the driver to hold a boat in position, hold its heading, or hold its position and heading simultaneously (which is particularly useful when fishing around a structure, or preparing the boat to dock).

Importantly, the new system is perfect for a wide range of hulls.

Mercury introduced Joystick Piloting for Outboards in 2013 - the first technology of its kind in the marine marketplace. It remains the most precise system on the market and the only system designed helm-to-stern to work with a Mercury engine.

This new joystick offering builds on that amazing legacy, while making joystick capability available to a broader set of boat lovers. mercurymarine.com

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AUG - NOV 2020

BOAT LIFTS & DOCKS

Introducing

A Unique

Boat Lift

Golden Elevator

ocal boat lifting specialists, Dockpro, now L distribute the industry's best Golden Elevator Lifts® solution to Australian boat owners.

Built with maximum features, each component is welded for durability and strength, allowing weight capacity from 300kg to 27,000kg.

Golden Elevator Lifts® is a premium solution that can be used in the most extreme docking situations such as concrete canal walls, high fixed jetties or steep embankments.

In addition to clever design, Golden Elevator Lifts® are 6061 T-6 aluminum with stainless steel hardware.

Their winders are solid aluminium with deep grooves and have a larger-than-average diameter for extended cable life. This contributes to greater lift speed. They don’t come close to exceeding the bending radius of the cable.

Guaranteed your boat will be lifted higher than ever.

No matter the distance of the water level to the ground, your boat can easily be lifted up and down.

The Golden Elevator Lifts® are ideally suited for water applications with great depths or sites where levels of water fluctuate.

The minimalist design makes it ideal for different boat styles and hull shapes. The degree of incline of the lifting system will be determined by your installation requirements.

You don’t need to worry about weather, water conditions, or water depth. Suitable for many tricky locations, the Golden Elevator Lifts® offer great lift speed in tight or restricted places such as a narrow canal or at a location where you can’t have fixed pilings in the seabed or because of necessary permits, an embankment, a rock wall or a seawall. The Golden Elevator Lifts® allows boat lifting in impossible places.

Manufactured in the USA, the Golden Elevator Lifts® are custom-built for your docking location.

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You can be assured that your boat will sleep safe and sound because the Golden Elevator Lifts® utilise heavy-duty materials, wheels, and accessories.

Featuring stainless steel cables, wheel brackets, and axles, all used for a clean, safe, and strong build.

Moreover, sacrificial metal anodes complete the boat lifts, serving as protection against electrolysis.

Also contributing to the solid strength of Golden Elevator Lifts® is the use of 12 wheels with stainless equaliser brackets (versus the average 6, or fewer), and welded box construction for drive connection to track beam. Carpeted bunk boards are also a standard feature.

There’s no higher-quality boat lift than Golden Elevator Lifts®. The lifts are covered by the following warranties: 5 years on structural parts, 10 years on Golden Sea-Drive® Gear Reducer, and 2 years on all other parts.

Built to withstand tough water conditions, like strong waves and currents, these systems can lift your boat higher in an unlimited water fluctuation environment.

This means that they are less likely to get damaged and require less maintenance and repair.

The elevator boat lifts showcase a stylish, low-profile design that enables ultra-fast docking operations and accessibility to hull and prop.

Call 1300 736 761 or visit www.dockpro.com.au to find out more.

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BOAT GUIDE

HOW TO SET

TRAILER TOWBALL MASS T

owball mass is the weight that the loaded trailer places on the tow vehicle's tow point when hooked up and ready to go. As a general guide, it should be Âą9% of the fully laden trailer's weight or ATM (Aggregate Trailer Mass - the weight of your unhitched trailer and its full load). In practise, it is calculated as ATM minus GTM (Gross Trailer Mass - the weight imposed on the same trailer's axles when hitched to its tow vehicle).

You can check what your current towball mass is by placing just the jockey wheel of your loaded trailer on the scales at a weigh bridge, or on a set of dedicated towball weight scales.

If you find your towball mass falls too far outside the general '9% of ATM' rule, it might be worth visiting a trailer expert, like Oceanic Trailers or one of our dealers, to see if we can assist you in setting your trailer up correctly.

INCORRECT TOWBALL MASS - WHAT TO LOOK FOR A common sign that your trailer's towball mass may not be set up correctly is if the trailer and/or tow vehicle are not sitting reasonably flat when hitched up. If the connect point creates either a dip or rise in the angle of a line through the tow vehicle and the trailer's drawbar, the towball mass is not set correctly.

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The danger of having too much towball mass in relation to your trailer's ATM is it un-weights the tow vehicle's front end, leaving you with a reduction of front-end grip, and diminished front braking capabilities, while over-stressing rear suspension and braking components. It also tends to over-load mechanical trailer braking systems as the load's weight is pitched more down/forward, which magnifies the force on the system's actuator. The chance of striking the towball or tow point is also increased if the extra towball mass is causing it to sit lower than is usual.

If you are unsure about the towball mass of your boat, PWC/jet ski, or box trailer, contact Oceanic Trailers or one of our dealers who offer professional trailer set-up services. For more information, visit www.oceanictrailers.com.au

If the towball mass is too low, the trailer will be more prone to weave and bounce, as the extra weight is carried over the back of the axles when in motion, and tends to make the rear of the tow vehicle feel light when going over undulations or bumps on the road surface. There's also a tendency to overheat the trailer's tyres if the towball mass is set too low, due to more weight being carried by the trailer's axles. This becomes more critical if the trailer's ATM is approaching the load limit of the tyres at their maximum inflation pressure.

AUG - NOV 2020

BOAT PRODUCTS

HES WINCHES Compact and Robust Slipway and Pontoon Winches

H

ES Winches Australia is a South East Queenslandbased business and was created exclusively to provide quality winches and superior service to their customers. The highly experienced team work closely with you to find the right winching solution, supplying quality, leading brand winches. Their commitment to excellence and service is second to none.

Formed in 2012 and a division of HES Group (est.

1982) the company manufactures and distributes hydraulic winches, electric winches, pneumatic winches, and hand winches for all types of industries and applications across the Asia-Pacific region. HES Winches Australia are the Australian distributor for several iconic global brands including Pullmaster, DP Winch, Tulsa Winch, and Lantec from the TWG group in USA and Canada plus Dinamic Oil from Italy, and Gebuwin from the Netherlands.

For waterfront property owners across Australia and New Zealand, HES Winches have fast become a familiar and trusted brand, also supplying the well-

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known OzWinch range of 240V AC electric planetary winches. “With almost 20 different OzWinch models available, and also custom options to suit special requirements, we cover all domestic and commercial marine hauling applications from pontoons and dry docks to slipways and boat ramps,” says Corrie Johnson, the National Sales Director of HES Winches.

“Uniquely, all OzWinch models have the option of being configured with a handheld pendant control as standard or a wireless remote-control system for extra user convenience and safety.” OzWinches also feature a fail-safe electromagnetic disc brake to provide safe and easy load control.

For larger vessels, the OzWinch range includes the recently updated Signature Series II slipway winch models, which have been designed and manufactured locally using quality stainless steel components for superior longevity in the marine environment. Designed in Queensland for Australian conditions, the Signature Series II range is proudly an Australian-made product.

MAINTAINING YOUR WINCH If you already own a winch that is used in a marine environment, your winch should be inspected regularly to ensure safe and trouble-free operation. In particular, ropes should be inspected for wear and must be replaced if there are signs of damage or corrosion.

To assist you with maintaining your winch, HES Winches Australia also offer an extensive end-to-end winch service program including sales and installation of new winches, periodical winch inspection servicing, mechanical and electrical repairs, breakdown services, replacement parts and rope replacement.

As we enjoy the cooler months of the year before the lead-up to peak boating season, now is a great time to call HES Winches to discuss your winch requirements if you need to replace your winch, or if your existing winch is overdue for a service.

Call HES Winches Australia 1300 946 242 www.heswinches.com.au

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BOAT LIFTS & DOCKS

WATER TRAILER BY

MARINESCAPES www.marinescapes.com

M

arinescapes is a Melbourne-based marine infrastructure company with vast experience in the design and manufacture of marine floatation platforms.

Having undergone a major restructure over the past two years, Marinescapes has been busy developing and expanding its product range.

The team have undergone a rigorous process of market research, including a customer needs questionnaire.

Marinescapes has invested heavily in new technology and machinery, and have begun their rollout of marine solutions to meet the changing requirements of customers and legislation. There was real need to create a tough and easy-to-use dry berthing solution for customers with smaller boats and budgets.

People wanted something that could handle the punishment of sitting on rocky and muddy bottoms right through to deep tidal waterways.

The Water Trailer was born, the first product Marinescapes has developed and successfully launched. There are several benefits of the Water Trailer. There is no power required. It is designed to arrive in one piece, making it easy to self-install to save on installation fees.

It is perfect for both shallow and deep water berthing. It does not have metal or moving parts to rust, cease, tear or puncture.

The Water Trailer has been designed and built to protect your boat in all conditions, provide an excellent return on your investment, is very simple to use, and has the ability to outlive the life of the boat. It comes in both six-metre and seven-metre versions, with the ability to take monohull boats up to approximately 6.2m in length and 1900kg in weight. It has a width of 2.5m with cleats on both sides to allow for easy installation of an aluminium walkway providing all round access to your boat.

The wide water stance of the Water Trailer also means that it ensures an extremely stable platform for your boat to sit safely on.

If you're in the market for a good looking, tough, easy to use and low maintenance dry berthing solution, the Water Trailer could be exactly what you’ve been waiting for.

Today, MarineScapes has grown into a respected global provider of marine lifting and custom float solutions.

Thousands of Marinescapes boat lifts have been designed and installed around the globe.

Marinescapes DryBerths have the capability to lift jetskis and both mono-hulled and multi-hulled boats from 14feet to 40feet in length. Marinescapes flotation devices and lifts are now widely used by major fleet operators, Coast Guards and Water Police and rescue services in Australia and around the world.

The dedication to continuous research and development has resulted in a range of unique, durable and environmentally-friendly marine products that are transforming the global marine industry.

By using Marinescapes DryBerths you can realise substantial cost and time savings by eliminating the need to regularly anti-foul your precious marine assets.

Marinescapes is a strong advocate of reducing environmental impacts. Our durable products are environmentally sustainable and will not puncture or wear. Marinescapes products also protect our precious waterways by providing an alternative to the regular toxic anti-fouling of marine craft.

DRY BERTH LIFT

Marinescapes Queensland graham@marinescapes.com Graham Murphy Ph: 0419 778 621

Australia’s largest inflatable boat specialist 14/75 Waterway Drive Coomera QLD 4209 Dylan Lopez

T 07 5519 9653 M 0424 487 226 E dylan@siroccomarinenorth.com brig.com.au

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AUG - NOV 2020

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BOAT GUIDE JOURNEY HISTORY

Local Legend

WALLY MORRIS

By Lani Esp-Morse

“Wally Morris was a pioneer in the sport of water-skiing. His innovation and willingness to try anything new on skis — or without — led him into untouched waters; literally. It saw him explore the boundaries of his sport and try and better what those before him had achieved.” - Gold Coast Sporting Hall of Fame

ighly regarded locally, as well as on an H international level, Wally Morris, a Gold Coast Sporting Hall of Fame inductee for water-skiing,

is one of the best water-skiers Australia has ever produced. Wally holds four national championship titles and represented Australia four times at the World Championships. Travelling with a team of elite water-skiers from Australia, Wally competed at the 1959 Milan, 1961 Long Beach California, 1963 Vichy and 1965 Surfers Paradise championships. Winning four national championships is only the beginning of Wally’s contributions to the sport and the Gold Coast as we know it.

Growing up in St Lucia, Wally spent a majority of his time down by the Brisbane River. Along with a few friends, he spent weekends Canadian-canoeing down by the river. Syd Sakzewski founded Queensland’s first water-ski club, Brisbane Ski Club, in the locality of the boys’ canoeing spot. Syd invited Wally, who was then 15 years old, and his friends to join as junior members.

“We wouldn’t have thought of joining the club, but we were at the river most of the weekends and one thing led to another. We had never heard of water-skiing.

Not a thing,” Wally recalls on the general perception of the sport at the time.

In return for fuelling and maintaining the boats at the club, the boys were able to make use of the waterski gear. Given that Wally and his friends had been playing on the water for years, it did not take them too long to pick up the skill. “We all learnt to ski fairly quickly, simply because we had been watching the senior members of the club not do it very well,” laughs Wally. Wally remembers that the majority of the senior members of the club were professional locals such as doctors, dentists or lawyers. “At the time, it was a sport for the wealthier or more successful people.”

The Australian water-ski scene was still in its early days. But from day one, Wally was competing in junior tournaments around the country. Wally remembers

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junior events often only having a handful of kids from around Australia. Wally’s first win was in 1954 at age 15 in the junior boys’ slalom event at Woodburn.

Part of Wally and his friends’ job was to maintain the boats used for ski practise, providing him with a hands-on learning experience he would carry with him the rest of his career. “We learnt boat skills on the job, although the boats in those days were not very good - primitive by today’s standards.”

Aside from servicing the boats, the boys also had to have the boats ready in the water for use by the senior members. One of these senior members was none other than Keith Williams (of SeaWorld and Surfer’s Paradise Ski Garden fame). “After meeting at the club, he saw that we must have had some talent.

He offered me and my friend a job to come work down on the Coast.”

The 50s saw the rise of theme parks in the United States and businessman Keith Williams saw a gap in the Australian market. Located originally in Carrara, the Surfers Paradise Ski Gardens opened in 1958 and ran onsite until moving to the Spit in 1971. The park offered numerous water-ski and stunt shows by pro-level athletes that proved a hit with locals and tourists alike.

“Keith was absolutely instrumental in bringing skiing to the Gold Coast. There wasn’t much else going on for daytime entertainment (on the Coast), so the shows became quite popular,” Wally comments on the success of the gardens. “We were employed to teach tourists and anybody off the street who wanted to learn how to ski. Keith decided to put on ski shows every Sunday and eventually we did Wednesdays and Sundays. And as the years went on we got to do ski shows every day of the week.”

The position of the Gardens in Carrara attracted crowds from the southern Coast as well as country areas, all looking to come and learn to ski. “They all

gravitated towards the ski gardens from the country with nothing better to do,” says Wally. “Williams offered them lessons if they came to ski in the show. If you skied in the show, you have use of the equipment.

We would have taught thousands of people how to ski over the years,” Wally recalls.

The Ski Gardens produced countless state and national level champs throughout the years, one of which being Joy Tucker. “Joy was a state champion.

She would come down and ski in the show from country Carrara.” Meeting at the Gardens during the golden era of the sport, Wally and Joy would be married a few years later.

“Keith Williams started a water-ski manufacturing business on the grounds. I eventually inherited the title of ‘production manager’ at the water-ski factory as well as skiing in the daily ski shows,” Wally reflects on his busy time at the Gardens. Not only was Wally kept busy onsite, while balancing life at the Ski Gardens, he was also competing as a national level athlete.

The year 1964 saw the Ski Gardens team put together a touring show that skied the southeast coast of Australia. The team toured from Brisbane as far south as Tasmania via various country towns, stopping at major cities such as Adelaide and Melbourne along the way. Wally reflects on the show as “a magnificent promotional tour for the Ski Gardens as well as the Gold Coast.”

The following year, all eyes would be on the Gold Coast for the 1965 World Championships at the Ski Gardens. Initially there was overwhelming hesitance for international skiers to compete in the southern hemisphere where the sport was significantly less established. Williams took on the battle of convincing the board and had a fair share of obstacles ahead of him. As Wally puts it, “Keith never worried about obstacles; he jumped them.”

AUG - NOV 2020

BOAT HISTORY

Training at Ski Ga rdens Nerang Riv er Carrara 1964

Wally considers himself lucky to have had the standard of facilities locally on the Coast. “I don’t want to sound biased, but the run at the Ski Gardens was the best out of all the ones I had been to,” Wally describes the quality of the course in comparison to previous international events he had attended. “We were fortunate enough to thank Keith for the permanent ski course and equipment we had on site - better than having to spend your weekend setting one up by yourself.”

Wally also recalls the diversity within the local and national water-ski teams during the 50-60s. “Anyone could enter the state titles, as long as they had qualifying standards. Say, if we could only send a team of six, there would always be a split between men and women.” Wally mentions some notable female athletes on the team at the time, including Beverly Baumann, Ann Murray, Betty Wheeler and Margaret Calvert who both proudly represented the Gold Coast at various state and national events.

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Sea World daily ski show

When the Ski Gardens made the move to The Spit on Main Beach, Wally stayed on to manage the initial production of Sea World. “I looked after Sea World up to its open date and remained general manager for the first 11 years of its existence.” Alongside managing the iconic theme-park, Wally was often called upon to perform in the daily ski shows when the team was short of a performer. Wally would often be seen skiing in the show while still wearing his manager badge and hat - until his last performance at age 42.

Aside from the national championship titles, other accomplishments to Wally’s name include being the first to barefoot ski in Queensland, a technique not dared by many and mastered by very few. Wally was able to work out this technique through trial and error in an age where there was no ‘guidebook’ or online tutorial.

“Back in my day, everything was literally trial and error.

We did things without thinking it out. We would get there eventually after 20 or 30 bad, ugly falls.” Driven by his own determination to do what had rarely been

left) Wally (3rd from

at the waiting to perform

Ski Gardens

done before, Wally pioneered the first backward barefoot, 360˚-helicopter jump off a ski ramp, and countless other techniques. He also won the first slalom and overall champion of Moomba Masters in 1961. With the title, he won a Haydon Hydrodyne and 80HP Mercury outboard.

Reflecting on the heydays of water-skiing, Wally wishes the sport had received more publicity, potentially cementing the popularity it had at the time. Despite not having the traction it once had, water-skiing still lives on through events, such as the Moomba Masters, that continue to this day. These days, the spirit of water sports still lives on through wakeboarding and other surf sports, the popularity of which Wally attributes to their easy access.

The ‘golden era’ of water-skiing as a sport on the Gold Coast may have passed, but it is still alive and well in our waterways city. And the legacy set by icons, such as Wally Morris, still serve as inspiration to the watersports and surf culture of the Coast today.

14/02/2019 1:49:19 PM

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BOAT SPORTS

JET SPRINT BOAT RACING

for Kids

By Grant Bourke

T

he Australian Formula Jet Sprint Association (AFJSA) is the governing body for V8 Superboats in which meetings are run throughout the year from Cabarita NSW to Keith SA. We hold approximately 7 rounds per year on our calendar. In this unique sport, we race against the clock with qualifying rounds, and then into elimination rounds to determine a winner of each class.

In previous seasons, there have been 3 classes of racing: LS class, International Group A class (400’s) and Unlimited Superboats. This year the AFJSA has introduced a new Junior Development Class. This class has been designed for 8 to 14 year old’s.

The junior development class is a stepping stone to allow juniors to experience the world of jet sprinting with the view to moving into the senior classes once they have come of age. In introducing this class, we are hoping to create future jet sprinters.

The boat we have built for the Junior Development Class is a single-seater fibreglass hull built around a 215hp Seadoo supercharged motor and jet unit.

These boats are capable of speeds of around 120km an hour and only weigh 270kg. Being able to utilise Seadoo dash and ignition allows for easier boat setup. Running on premium unleaded fuel, the costs are kept to a minimum for race meetings. With a custom trailer built by Oceanic Marine on the Gold Coast, the transportation of the boat to and from events is made possible.

With the way the boat has been designed and built, it caters for kids of different heights with a high roll cage and an adjustable accelerator pedal.

The juniors are restricted by a learner key, which limits the speed and performance for safety reasons. All juniors are required to wear full race gear when competing to maintain maximum possible safety. There is only one boat allowed on track at

any one time, and juniors race on a shorter track rotation to the ‘big boys’.

This is a great way to get involved in our sport, and to get our kids involved in jet sprint boat racing, without having to outlay a large amount of money.

At present, this boat can be shared among three junior racers at any race meeting around Australia.

ABOUT OUR TEAM Lil Psycho Race Team with the backing of Patriot Campers was established at the start of 2020 with the purchase of this custom boat from Western Australia.

Koby Bourke is the current driver, and at 12 years of age is fast becoming welladapted to the sport. He is not new to racing as his family has been involved with V8 Superboats for over 25 years. Allowing Koby to race a boat in the sport he loves allows us as a family to go racing together and we are all passionate to see him succeed.

One of our priorities is getting the name of the Lil Psycho race team out there, and allowing people to follow Koby's exciting journey. One way we're doing this is by branching out into merchandise and being active on social media.

If anyone is interested and would like more information, they are welcome to come and see us at a race meeting or Cabarita club day. You can follow us via Facebook and Instagram profiles, as well as on our website. www.facebook.com/lilpsychoraceteam instagram.com/lilpsychoraceteam www.v8superboats.com.au

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AUG - NOV 2020

BOAT REVIEW BOAT GOLD COAST

4.5L V-6 MerCruiser ideal for Stejcraft’s

SPORTS BOWRIDER SS55 SD

"It’s the only thing like it being built in Australia at the moment, and there’s definitely a market for them. This is a high-end boat that’s still value for money.”

With his new SS55 SD bow rider, Stejcraft CEO Tim Catanese has created an outstanding allrounder that not only looks stunning but is high-performance as well.

“The SS55 is a new design that we’ve deliberately given a US look with that American-style upholstery and a really high-standard finish,” he said. “It perfectly fills the hole in the market created by American boats becoming too expensive.

“The other key factor is that we decided to make this one a sterndrive. I think people have a real desire for boats that have sterndrives and inboards. They like it visually, not having the engine there. Sure, people buy a lot of outboards, but I think some of that is because they don’t have a choice.”

At just 5.5m, but capable of carrying up to seven people, the SS55 is easy to trailer and store, which makes it even more appealing.

Of course, exciting boats like the SS55 SD require lots of muscle, and when it came to selecting which engine, Tim couldn’t go past Mercury.

“The 4.5L V-6 MerCruiser 200hp is simply an amazing engine. It has a fantastic power-to-weight ratio, the acceleration is really impressive and it’s just great to drive.”

But the SS55 isn’t just about going fast, or looking brilliant. This boat is about performance as well.

“What we’ve done is alter the shape for the hull to make the boat more of an allrounder,” Tim said.

“Traditionally, in the US, this type of boat is reasonably flat-bottomed because they don’t leave the lakes. Ours is great on rivers and lakes as well, but it will also be able to go offshore if you want to go whale watching or just cruise the coast.”

Designed solely for marine use, the 4.5L V-6 MerCruiser weighs in at just 345kgs.

Thanks to its new, long-runner scroll intake manifold, which draws in more air and converts it into additional torque, the 4.5L delivers a ground-breaking power-toweight ratio so boaters will enjoy V-8 power in a V-6 package.

The 4.5L comes standard with Adaptive Speed Control, which automatically maintains engine RPM regardless of load or water conditions. The result is increased throttle response and a sporty feel.

Combining smart design, a cool look, a top-notch finish and a fantastic engine, Tim’s expecting the SS55 to deliver, not just for its owners, but for Stejcraft as well.

Tim, a second-generation boat builder, spent two years in the US learning their manufacturing techniques, the best of which he’s applying at Stejcraft.

“We make about 150 boats a year now but we’re looking to expand, and selling bow riders like this one into the US can be a big part of that.

“The boats that used to come in from the US have dried up because they’re simply too expensive with the exchange rate. So there’s a market for us here, but it also means we can realistically turn it around and start exporting to the US.” For your nearest Stejcraft dealer, go to www.wyldaboutboats.com.au and ask for a quote on the new SS55 sterndrive bowrider.

HAYDEN WYLD (07) 55 63 2223 BOATGOLDCOAST.COM. AU

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BOAT LIFESTYLE

Books for Boaties ON YOUR READING LIST a modern society dominated by rules and I nregulations, speed cameras and parking meters,

recreational boating is one of the last frontiers of personal freedom and a natural flow of life allowing you a unique perception of our beautiful city, where you are able to move forward without having to stay strictly between the lines.

While boaties always want to spend as much time out on the water as possible, on bad-weather days or when stuck in the office, it is nice to have some inspirational tomes around to get you thinking about your next trips out on the water. We rounded up some top new books to add to your reading list today.

who navigated the Virgin Atlantic Challenger, Richard Branson’s boat, on its record-breaking fastest Atlantic crossing in 1986. In his book, he looks into how the design of different vessels impacts their control and performance, and how each design aspect has an impact both individually and as part of a whole.

Readers will learn about different hull designs, engine types, propulsion systems, and driving controls, and learn how to optimise the performance of their powerboats in varying sea conditions. There are also sections about dealing with uncommon scenarios and safety. The book features contributions from many of the best modern powerboat designers from around the world.

LONELY PLANET’S AMAZING BOAT JOURNEYS If you are looking for inspiration about where to go around the world for epic boating adventures, this Lonely Planet title has the goods. Published in October 2019, Amazing Boat Journeys features 60 of the best trips on water around the world.

This list includes things like sailing the Nile by felucca, exploring Pitcairn Island by cargo ship, riding on a mailboat in the Bahamas, taking a glass-bottomed boat ride through Florida springs, or seeing what a trip on a historic sailpowered ‘windjammer’ is like.

The book provides detailed accounts of each route covered, including practical tips on how to plan this kind of journey yourself, information about life on board the different vessels, similar courses to consider, plus beautiful photography of each eclectic voyage. Trips range in length, too, so there is something to suit everyone.

POWERBOAT DESIGN AND PERFORMANCE: EXPERT INSIGHT INTO DEVELOPMENTS PAST AND FUTURE Dag Pike’s Powerboat Design and Performance, released in November 2019, is the book that powerboat owners and operators have been wishing for. It analyses and reviews the design and operation of modern powerboats as well as the history of how they have developed over the years. Pike is a well-known journalist and guru on powerboats who has won races around the world and 102

THE SYDNEY HOBART YACHT RACE: THE STORY OF A SPORTING ICON Published in November 2019, The Sydney Hobart Yacht Race by Rob Mundle is a comprehensive (400plus pages!) tome that depicts the story of the world-famous yacht race, one of the greatest sporting challenges ever created.

Racking up 75 years now, the Sydney Hobart Yacht Race is an iconic event in the summer sporting season and attracts interest and media coverage from across the globe.

Bestselling author Rob Mundle (who wrote popular title Fatal Storm), is well qualified to write about this topic, having competed in the yacht race three times himself, and reported on it for over fifty years for both TV and newspaper. In the book, he looks at the history of the race and tells the stories of many of those who have competed in the event. He examines why it is such a drawcard, even though it involves facing such extreme conditions.

The book is a suitable read for anyone who loves watching the race on TV each year or who has ever wished they had the opportunity to be involved.

By Kellie Byrnes

ENID & HER MAGIC YACHT: THE VOLCANO ERUPTS! Written by Kiran Jay Haslam Illustrated by Jaume Vilardell Most of the time (if not all), the best adventures can be found in a child’s imagination. What they experience in reality is often turned into something more exciting, as their wandering thoughts bring them to places and give them strange and unique adventures that most adults cannot (or do not) even comprehend.

In the book, Enid & Her Magic Yacht: The Volcano Erupts!, we are introduced to the world of an 8-year-old, Enid, whose experience with her magic yacht, Captain Rollo, is always an adventure.

Enid and Captain Rollo’s story explores places that we would not even get close to. A volcanic island with talking totems, emergency news from a bird, and an underwater world with jazz-loving sea life set the theme for the exploration of nature. For children, this is a very valuable element to their growing years. Being in touch with what is around us in nature is an important aspect of our existence. The story is presented in illustrations that are easy for young children to identify with, and provide comical representation of the marine life. This is one tool that encourages the use of imagination, and can help ease some of the fears that children have of the unknown and the unseen.

The book’s author, Kiran Jay Haslam, included a superyacht element, as this book was created for Princess Yachts International. The book made an appearance in a marketing video for the promotion of one of the Princess yachts. The integration of this message into the marketing of the superyacht is a smart move to engage their clientele in a discourse on marine environmental protection and education, albeit very subtly.

The book encourages children to enjoy the ocean and nature, which we have a lot of in this country, and protect them when necessary from destruction. The story is a great way to send the message without preaching. It is also a good story to encourage children to enjoy boating, and explore the world on water. Encouraging them to appreciate marine activities will assist in educating them about marine life and how humans can peacefully co-exist with them.

We can all appreciate the good life – like luxuries and elegance – but we have seen time and time again how the simple things are most important to our children.

Published by Princess Yachts International. Proceeds of the sale of these books are donated to Marine Conservation Society. By Roselle Tenefrancia AUG - NOV 2020

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BOAT GUIDE PEOPLE

SUE MASON

SUPERYACHT ENGINEER

By Tanya Rabe

Mason loves to sit back, have a glass S ueof wine, and talk about boats - but not in

the way you might expect. Sue will talk about engine rooms, bilges, hydraulics and refitting superyachts. A petite woman with the spirit of a giant, she can draw you into her world without much effort.

Back in the late 70s, Sue’s father owned an electrical business in north Queensland where she headed the generators and welders department. In her spare time, she would help male friends pull apart gearboxes and engines.

Sue laughs as she recalls how she began her life with superyachts. “I met my husband, Brian, in the engine room of his charter boat over a brand new 12.0 MDJF Onan generator.” It may not be a romantic scenario for most women, but to Sue and Brian, it was love at first engineering conversation.

Months later, Brian was looking for crew on the 60-foot game boat he captained. Sue jumped at the opportunity. It was the beginning of their partnership in superyachts and in life. On this boat, Sue got a chance to learn everything: stewardessing, cooking for guests and crew, being a deckhand, game boat preparation, and anything else she was asked to do.

In 1993, they were invited to manage and captain a 90-foot superyacht, where, for the next 13 years, they were in charge of the boat, offering dive charters, game fishing, corporate work and a once-a-year owner trip. It was their first involvement with major refits. During this job, Sue went for her captain’s licence and successfully obtained her STCW (Standards of Training, Certification for Watchkeeping for Seafarers) and GMDSS (Global Maritime Distress and Safety Systems).

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In 2001, they moved to Florida where they managed a new superyacht that travelled between Fort Lauderdale and the Mediterranean.

With her background in electricals, Sue could easily find her way around an engine room. She was always tinkering with valves and pumps, servicing hydraulics, sewage systems and water makers. It was not unusual to lose Sue around the boat, but one could always find her deep in the bilges.

Sue encourages women not to be afraid of pursuing a career in superyacht engineering. Her advice is to start out small, such as on a 100ft boat with about three to four crew, and be keen to get experience on the deck and in the engine room. Sexual harassment is a known issue in the superyacht world, but it is not on all boats. Reputations are talked about among crew, so simply ask around before choosing where you want to work. There are supportive captains who will encourage you to follow your goals.

She became qualified for her Marine Engineering tickets with MCA (Maritime Coastguard Agency) and was awarded Chief Engineer (III/3) < 3,000 kilowatt – Unlimited Area – International. The only female in the course, Sue remembers the examination adjudicator, a pompous Englishman, saying to her, “You must be mistaken. You are in the Marine Engineering exam.” Sue couldn’t resist, and replied in a diminutive voice, “Oh my, really? I thought I was sitting for flower decorating!”

Currently Sue and Brian are refitting an American 90-foot expedition yacht. When this job is over, they may have time to sail their 54ft Amel Maramu, Lola. “Leaving my family behind was probably the biggest guilt trip I had. I was lucky that I had a supportive family and the kids got to see the world but it is still something I have thought about”.

Sue quickly gained the respect of her male colleagues. They came to her for advice and solutions to sticky problems. It was the same for future jobs with superyachts. Sue and Brian were sought after for their reputation and experience, the two qualities Sue urges women to focus on if they wish to pursue a career in this area.

Sue has been living on the sea for most of her life since 1993. “I love being at sea and have absolutely no desire to go and build a house.

There’s a certain freedom about dropping the lines and taking off.”

“We have been spoiled by this lifestyle,” Sue says. “We have travelled the world in luxury, but it is no free ride. You have to be prepared to work hard.” Not only that, she states that you have to be able to handle unusual situations. On one trip, they were to cross the Red Sea in transit from Asia to Italy. The boat would be entering a volatile region, and Sue was ordered to employ armed security guards. Thankfully, it was only precautionary and no fighting of pirates needed to be added to her resume.

AUG - NOV 2020

BOAT REVIEW

EYACHTS BRINGS

PARDO YACHTS DOWNUNDER

Eyachts Managing Director Peter Hrones understands day boats and has a keen eye for what is next on the horizon. Having imported over 100 day boats to Australia and New Zealand in recent years, he has good reason to stake his claim with Pardo yachts.

E

yachts Pty Ltd, the Australian and New Zealand importer of some of the world’s best power boats, has turned their attention to the impressive new line currently being rolled out by Italian giants Cantiere del Pardo.

In just over two years, this head-turning Italian brand has quickly become the No.1 walk-around dayboat in the sector. This rapid growth cannot be put down, as it gives the modern boaters the experience, quality and style that they demand. Pardo’s unique Italian style and functionality both above and below decks have won many admirers the world over.

For over forty years, Cantiere del Pardo has been integral in the production of stylish, high-performance vessels with both quality and comfort combined.

Hrones says, “Day boats are becoming more and more popular every year. For many, it has become apparent that more than 80% of their usage is during the day only. And so now, we see many moving from bulk and accommodation to simplicity, quality and style.”

Hrones continues, “To partner with such passionate owners at Cantiere del Pardo is so refreshing and exciting. People who really love boat design love what they are producing. They involve companies like Lamborghini to construct their major moving parts like the Carbon T-Top, and carbon dash that hinges forward for easy technical accessibility. I am drawn to this kind of clever engineering and cross pollination of the world’s best technology.

“Understanding our extreme weather and waterways in Australia and NZ, not every day boat is suitable for our market. It is Pardo Yachts’ detail and construction methods that we now look for in our next generation day boats for our new and existing customers.”

Pardo also has so many new cool and interesting projects like the new E60 (Endurance range) just released at Dusseldorf Boat Show, plus the new GT range all to come in 2021, and that really excites the team at Eyachts. Every month, whether it is the “2020 European Boat of the Year” or the latest announcement that “Prada” and the team at Luna Rossa have partnered for the next America’s Cup in Auckland, the story just keeps getting stronger and stronger. The first Australian delivery will arrive during September, 2020.

Visit Eyachts website www.eyachts.com.au or contact them at boats@eyachts.com.au or (02) 9979 2443 for more information.

Photos by fTaccola©

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BOAT LIFESTYLE

BOATING FLICKS to watch

By Kellie Byrnes

having some downtime and looking for I ffilmsyoutoarewatch, consider checking out documentaries.

toll the weeks-long, round-the-world race took on Crowhurst. The sailor suffered a mental breakdown during his journey and jumped overboard.

When it comes to those about sailing and boating, you are spoilt for choice. We found five documentaries perfect for boat lovers.

MAIDEN One of the most popular newer docos related to the boating world is Maiden.

It was released in 2018 and is a feature-length picture that tells the story of Tracy Edwards.

Edwards became the skipper of the very first all-female crew that entered the Whitbread Round the World Race back in 1989, using the 58-foot yacht Maiden.

The documentary concentrates on the strengths and accomplishments of the Maiden’s crew, but it also, naturally, examines the issues of sexism and bullying the women faced along the way. The film juxtaposes 1989 footage with interviews with Edwards and the crew today. It gives an ultimately informative, moving, and inspiring depiction of not just an epic sports tale, and also demonstrates the power of resilience, strength, and teamwork.

DEEP WATER An older documentary to add to your list is Deep Water, from 2006. Narrated by well-known actress Tilda Swinton, this film recounts the story of rather novice yachtsman Donald Crowhurst’s attempt to win the inaugural Golden Globe Race in 1968. The story focuses on the deep – and ultimately fatal – psychological

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Although the content covers not the most uplifting of outcomes, the documentary is captivating.

It provides a look into human pride, fragility, passion, strength, and hopes and dreams, using original 16mm footage plus tape recordings and interviews.

MAIDENTRIP Maidentrip is a sailing documentary that came out in 2013. It tells the story of Laura Dekker, a NewZealand born Dutch-raised teen who broke the world record in January 2012 for the youngest person ever to sail around the world single-handedly. She was just 16 years of age when she made history.

Dekker completed 5,600 nautical miles in her twomasted ketch during her approximately 18-month journey. She was 13 years old when she announced her plans, but had to fight her case in a Dutch court to be allowed to pursue her dream as a minor. At 14 years old, she finally had permission to set off. The documentary shares an in-depth look into the character of this determined and passionate sailor.

RED DOT ON THE OCEAN Red Dot on the Ocean: The Matt Rutherford Story is a 2014 documentary that, as the name suggests, focuses on a sailor named Matt Rutherford and his voyage to become the first person to sail solo, nonstop around North and South America.

The film lets viewers into the world of Rutherford, who was once an at-risk, rebellious youth. Rutherford bought a sailing boat online without first inspecting it, and then taught himself to sail. He set out on his journey when he was 21 years old and faced all sorts of dangerous conditions and problems during the 300-plus days of his voyage.

ROBIN KNOX-JOHNSTON: A FORCE OF NATURE Created to mark the 50th anniversary since Sir Robin KnoxJohnston won the first Golden Globe Race (the same one depicted in Deep Water), Robin Knox-Johnston: A Force of Nature is a 2018 BBC documentary about one of the legends of British sailing.

The film features original footage and numerous interviews, giving wannabe racers insight into KnoxJohnston’s single-handed, non-stop race around the world, and the reasons behind why he chose to enter.

AUG - NOV 2020

SOUTHPORT YACHT CLUB MAIN BEACH . HOLLYWELL . OXE NF OR D . D U X

MARINA

CLUBHOUSE

SAILING

300-Berths . 35t Travel Lift 24hr Fuel . 20 Hardstands Superyacht Berths

Waterfront Restaurant . Special Events Corporate Functions . Gym Weddings . Garden Bar . Pontoon Bar

Youth & Adult Learn to Sail Club Racing . Regattas Cruising . Corporate Sailing

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1 Macarthur Parade, Main Beach, QLD 4217 | www.southportyachtclub.com.au | +61 7 5591 3500

BOAT GUIDE JOURNEY SAILING

Introducing kids to

Sailing

DON’T START TOO YOUNG

It is also a good idea to wait to introduce your children to sailing until they are confident in and around the water. John recommends children to be at least five years old before they become junior sailors. He says, “Paradise Point Sailing Club has an official age restriction of six years for kids taking part in our sailing programs, but we do allow children of five years of age to participate if they show enough confidence on the water to feel safe while learning.”

CHOOSE THE RIGHT VESSEL

W

ith so many warm, sunny days per year, it is no wonder that South East Queensland is a hub for sailors. There are dozens of sailing clubs spread across the Gold Coast, Brisbane, and surrounding regions to get involved with.

If you love nothing more than getting out on your boat each weekend, you may want to introduce your children to sailing. However, to ensure the experience is a good one for them, it is imperative to go about things strategically. Here are some tips to think about when the time comes.

MAKE IT FUN If you want your kids to have a great time sailing, make it enjoyable for them. Young ones do not care about the technicalities involved with sailing, so do not bombard them with too much information straight off the bat. Instead, let kids get familiar with the boat, and hop on and off multiple times and climb around.

Once they identify being around a boat to be fun, you are off to a great start.

As the president of the Paradise Point Sailing Club, where a variety of sailing programs and camps for juniors are run regularly, John Murphy knows all about this. He says, “We’ve found that making a child’s initial exposure to sailing both simple in information and also a fun experience, is essential. For example, we make up funny rules like, ‘No smiling allowed!’ because it looks like the participants are having fun, and we jokingly say it’s not allowed. Of course, this just makes them smile more!”

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To make the process safe and simple for children, choose the right types of craft to use when introducing kids to sailing. John explains, “We have found that small dinghies, like our Tera class boats, are perfect.

They’re an easy one to sail, have simple rigging, and are self-bailing. This means that when they capsize, they come back up dry. The juniors can jump back in and are ready to go off again right away.”

EQUIP KIDS WITH THE NECESSARY GEAR To set your youngsters up for sailing success, equip them with all the essential gear for their needs, too.

They must stay protected from the sun and other elements. John notes that whenever parents make enquiries, he and other members provide adults with a list of things their little sailors will need to stay safe.

“We ask parents to outfit children with rash shirts, board shorts, rubber booties, and sunscreen. Plus, the Club also supplies each child with a safety helmet and a lifejacket (personal floatation device).”

SAFETY MUST BE TOP OF MIND Kids need to learn that safety comes first when sailing, so do not downplay this topic. John states, “Once the boats are rigged and ready, there is always a safety briefing where we discuss both safety on the shore and on the water. We conduct a demonstration of how to attract attention by raising arms, and we explain that when a boat capsizes, children need to stay with the boat. We also teach kids how to right their boat after capsize, and promote this procedure by allowing capsize practice at the end of on-the-water sessions. Doing these things promotes safety and is also a lot of fun.”

THINGS TO AVOID

When you are introducing your children to safety, there are, naturally, not just do’s but also plenty of don’ts to consider. For example, John recommends that people never force young children to participate.

He also advises, “Don’t expect instant understanding from kids of what they are attempting to learn. Plus, if you’re present during a training program or other professionally-run sailing session, don’t override the qualified personnel in the instructions they give.”

THE BENEFITS OF SAILING CLUB INSTRUCTION While you might like the idea of teaching your children to sail, it typically pays to send them off for some professional guidance at first to find their sea legs.

Once they have some confidence, it will be easier (and much less stressful!) for you to go sailing as a family at that point.

John notes, “By booking children into a sailing program, the first thing they get is expert safety instructions both on water and on land from qualified and experienced staff. When participating in a learner’s program, such as our five-level sailing program, they have a steady pathway they can travel through at their own pace.

“As part of this program, children have access to our junior and senior instructors, who are there to answer questions and generally help kids navigate the structured five-level program. Furthermore, through a sailing school, participants can access a range of sailing boats. This variety of exposure helps them greatly in their future sailing pathway choices. It also means they receive ongoing support in the sport.”

Learning to sail is a process and will have its ups and downs for your child. But by following the tips listed above, you should find your youngsters enjoy their time out on the water and continue to be enthusiastically involved.

For more information about the Paradise Point Sailing Club’s sailing programs, visit www.ppscgc.com

By Kellie Byrnes AUG - NOV 2020

BOAT LIFESTYLE

IT'S TRADITION, AND IT'S LUCK

Name Your Boat

By Lowen Taylor

Photo by Multihull Solutions

F

or many, owning a boat means fun-filled weekends of watersports, fishing trips with the boys, or hanging out with the family. For others, it means lavish parties for the VIPs, popping bottles on the top deck, and rarely moving from the exclusive harbour berth. And then, for a select few, it is home - a floating abode that allows them the freedom to be wherever they want to be, with whomever they want to share it with. A boat means love-filled sunset picnics, a space to read and reread your favourite book, a space to write your own book, a place of reflection and hauntingly beautiful memories, and all the romantic notions you can imagine. So how then do we name this sacred vessel of joy and happiness? How do we choose what is worthy?

2) ROGER THAT!

Boat naming has proven to be one of the hardest decisions you will make throughout the process of buying a boat. Popular choices include the name of a loved one, the one that got away, a spin on one’s favourite boating destinations, or a creative play on words representing a life philosophy. There are, however, a few written and some unwritten laws, safety regulations, and heavy-weighted superstitions to bypass before you can scream your boat’s name while sailing, arms spread wide on the starboard bow.

3) VERY SUPERSTITIOUS, WRITING’S ON THE …. BOAT.

1) AIN’T SHE A BEAUTY? It is a well known fact that boats are traditionally regarded as female objects; hence the custom that boats be named after lovers, mothers, sisters and that fiery waitress that always gave you a double shot and cheeky smile, but never her phone number. Some say this is due to the fact that in Latin-based languages, ‘boat’ is considered a female object. But in sailing folklore, boats full of only men often went away for weeks, months and years at a time; the only lady in their lives being the one that gave them safe passage through the open water. This emotional connection to the vessel’s physical structure has created a strong stereotype for boats and their feminine names. But don't be deterred; if you really want to call your boat Trevor the Great, then by all means, go ahead.

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One of the most important things to take into consideration is how easy to understand and pronounce your boat’s name is, in case of an emergency. Furthermore, it needs to be a name that you will happily announce at a regatta or boat show without hesitation. Being creative is one thing, but deriving your boat’s name from an acronym or inside joke may leave you high and dry (or low and sunken) if rescue services cannot understand your panicked rambles over the radio. Be witty yet precise, and be creative yet completely clear, to avoid any misunderstandings during an emergency situation.

A page from the marine folklore handbook indicates that once a boat has been named, it enters into The Ledger of the Deep and is watched over by the mighty King Neptune (or Poseidon), god of the sea. Once there, it is considered deeply disrespectful to Neptune to simply change the name; otherwise, he will cast you inevitable misfortune while at sea.

However, by performing a renaming ceremony where you must remove all traces of the old name, and pay your respects to Neptune with a witnessed celebration and toast of champagne, you can hit the open seas with the knowledge that you will remain under his protective eye at all times.

Another superstition relates to names that imply disaster in jest. Most believe that naming your boat On the Rocks or Tide-tanic, for example, simply sets you up for failure, so you should stick to names that promote wellbeing and safety at sea.

4) TOO LATE, THAT’S MINE. It is always a good idea to check with your local registry to see if your chosen name has already been taken. While there is no law against having the same name as another boat, you do

not necessarily want four Rhonda’s crossing the Tasman together or lined up next to one another at the marina.

So have fun with your naming journey, but also be concise and respectful - respectful to yourself, to other boaties, and of course, to King Neptune himself. Enjoy your water time knowing you are safe in every aspect.

Keen to find out how to register your boat’s current name or a new one?

For details visit: boatnames.com.au/boat-registration-australia 109

BOAT REVIEW

BOAT SAILING

Purtaboi Island near Dunk Island

MALAIKA

SAILING THE EAST COAST OF QLD

By Olly Gaspar

Slipped for emergency mast repairs in Townsville

T

he Australian east coast is one of the most scenic travel destinations in the world. It is also the place where I was lucky enough to grow up. With a keen interest in everything related to the ocean, I have been fortunate enough to sail along the New South Wales and Queensland coasts.

THE VESSEL: MALAIKA During the early years, my family worked on a 10year project of building a homemade 15m steel motor-sailor yacht from scratch. This was born out of my dad’s crazy dream of truly self-sufficient sailing.

We all surrendered to the cause and dedicated a lot of time to building Malaika.

After 10 years of hard labour and dedication, my dad’s dream became a reality. In 2014, Malaika wet her keel for the first time in the channels of Gosford.

Consequently, the next few years would be spent exploring the surrounding coastline while teaching ourselves how to sail.

BASIC SAILING TIPS If you are dreaming of a lifestyle change or just an epic coastal sailing adventure, this story is a quick guide that might help new cruisers and sailors wondering about what it is like sailing up the east coast of Australia, from Brisbane to Cairns, through the eyes of a novice sailor. These words are a reflection of

my personal experiences and what I have learned sailing. Along the way, I strive to capture images that tell a story and captivate those with a connection to travel and adventure. Here are some general tips to help you out on your cruising journey.

Take Your Time - This is probably the most important rule of all. Heading out into dangerous seas just for the sake of moving to the next destination is counterproductive and dangerous. Sailing teaches you patience. If conditions are bad, you are going to regret leaving port as soon as you get out.

Remember, Weather Is King - Every sailor knows that they cannot beat the sea. Make sure to always check weather conditions and forecasts before you leave port. It is also a good idea to recheck just before you leave, as conditions could have changed since the forecast during the night before. While conditions might seem calm and relaxed in a quiet anchorage, winds might be howling and swell might be pumping just around the headland.

Buy Alan Lucas’ Cruising Books - He is known as the “lord of the sandflies”. After you read some of his guides, you will quickly understand why. He seems to love anchoring on creeks and rivers that are full of sandflies.

Still, his books are the best and most comprehensive guides you will find for anchorage information and channel crossings. The books are a little hard to find online, but you will definitely want a copy onboard.

Beautiful South Molle Island 110

Invest in Electronic Equipment - There are plenty of good cruising books and online resources that go into detail about equipment. Therefore, I will not elaborate on what kind of equipment you are going to need. However, here are some things that you will definitely want with you: A good chart plotter.

An autopilot (unless you want to spend tireless days and nights at the helm) Solar and inverter charger and deep-cycle batteries Depth and wind gauges Avoid Cyclone Season - In the Queensland region, tropical cyclones can form from lows within the monsoon trough. Sailing in Far North Queensland during the months between November and April is generally discouraged. Many full-time cruisers instead choose to head south to NSW during this time of the year. This is convenient because the south-easterly trades die off during this time, making sailing south much easier.

Avoid Sailing Against The Trades - One of the biggest tips is to plan your trip sailing up the east coast, especially in Queensland, to run with the trades. While it might not always be favourable, it is a much better idea to either put it off or go sooner in order to catch the right season. The East Coast Trades, especially

Olly Gaspar, writer, phtographer, adventurer AUG - NOV 2020

REVIEW BOAT SAILING

Island time at Brampton Island

Attila (dad), Caroline (mum), Julia (sister), Olly

Enchanting Magnetic Island

Caroline and Attila at the helm

further up the coast, are pretty reliable for running north. In Queensland, the trade winds blow in an east-to-southeast direction from April to November.

During this time, it is a breeze sailing up the coast, as you will be running most of the time.

Internet When Sailing - By far, the best reception you will get when sailing the east coast of Australia is with Telstra, but it is definitely going to be spotty. You will generally have better connections closer to land and closer to major cities. Between Fraser Island and Mackay is a huge section where you will get absolutely no service. Remember to plan ahead and prepare to use the radio during this part of the sail.

General Access to Provisions, Water and Fuel Cruisers will be able to have access to provisions, water, and fuel almost everywhere up the coast.

Water is generally free, and safe to drink from the docks. Diesel and fuel is also readily available at most marinas and, of course, you should expect to pay a premium for the convenience of refuelling at the dock.

Cost of Full-time Cruising - Full-time cruising in Australia can get pretty expensive. However, if you catch your own fish, use the wind for momentum and mostly anchor for free, then that cost is much less than living on land. The main daily costs will be diesel and food, and amounts will vary depending on your appetite and how much you run your engine. Treat yourself well as often as you can afford, by docking at marinas where you can expect to pay between $70 and $140 per night.

And, remember how the saying goes: “The sailor who claims to never have boat problems has never left the harbour.” Always consider the risk of having to pay for repairs. Every boat has problems, from the engines to sails, electronic equipment to leaks.

Souita Falls in the tropical north BOATGOLDCOAST.COM. AU

SOME AMAZING EXPERIENCES So, tips and technicalities aside, here are a few of the great things that you may experience sailing up the east coast.

Dolphin Greetings - Dolphins are an incredible animal. You will often find them “playing” with your vessel by dancing and jumping along the wake and at the bow. You will probably meet many pods along the way, but the highest concentration of dolphin populations tend to hang around the Newcastle Coast in NSW. Fishing and Trolling - When we sail and cruise, we generally always have a trolling line out. I am probably not the best person to comment on fishing.

However, we caught plenty of mackerel trolling with deep-diving lures, especially north of Brisbane. It seemed to us the further up the coast you sail, the better the fishing gets.

Humpback Whale Migration - Every year, approximately 60,000 humpback whales leave Antarctica and make their own journeys north.

It is the biggest mammal migration in the world, and it takes them three months to reach northern Australia. Here, they mate and nurture newborns in the warm tropical waters. Whales head north from July to September, and they head south from September to January. If you are sailing up the coast during the whale migration, then you will almost certainly come across more than a few. This can be a blessing and a curse. Sailing at night time can be risky, as the huge mammals sleep on the surface, completely oblivious to cruising vessels. Many people have reported “bumping” whales when sailing up the coast; not a pleasant experience for you, and certainly not for the whales.

Abandoned Resorts - Beginning as far south as the Whitsundays are the relics of Australia’s oncebooming island tourism industry. Unfortunately, many of the island resorts that you will find sailing up the coast are now abandoned. Some theories on why this is so include the high cost of travel in Australia compared to overseas travel, as well as the threat of tropical cyclones in the north. Nevertheless, you will get to experience islands that have been cut off to the land-dwelling public for centuries. If the resorts are open, be sure to stop over and show your support, as most are very welcoming of passing boats. >

Heading to Gloucester Island 111

BOAT SAILING

Caroline and Attila with dogs Rocco and Frankie

. . . . . SAILING THE EAST COAST Millaa Millaa Falls, Tablelands Region

Sunset over Hamilton Island

> Sharks and Crocs - If there is saltwater, there will be sharks. But, did you know that more people die each year in Australia from cows than sharks? So, do not fear. Generally speaking, sharks do not care for the taste of human flesh. When sailing, you will probably see the occasional fin on the surface. There are also plenty of reef sharks further up north on the reef that are epic to snorkel with. The only exception I found was at Cid Harbour, where several people have been attacked recently. This was the only place I saw where they did not recommend swimming due to the threat of sharks.

When it comes to crocs, on the other hand, I do not share the same confidence. We did not see too many when sailing up the east coast, but they can be seen as far south at Gladstone. Remember to always be croc-safe. I would not recommend swimming in any saltwater mangrove rivers in north Queensland.

● South Whitsunday Islands (Keswick, Brampton, Outer Newry, Goldsmith) ● Airlie Beach, South Molle Island (Whitsundays) ● Whitehaven Beach, Hamilton Island, and Cid Harbour (Whitsundays)

WILLY WEATHER - Willy Weather uses up-to-date weather information from the Bureau of Meteorology.

We use this app for wind, swell and tide data.

RECOMMENDED BOOKS

● The Hinchinbrook Channel

If you are thinking about sailing up the east coast of Australia, then you will have plenty of days doing absolutely nothing. I understand that this is appealing to many people, but still, you are going to want to keep yourself busy somehow.

● Magnetic Island (Townsville)

● The Complete Sailing Manual

● Orpheus Island

● The International Marine Book of Sailing: Your Guide to a Lifetime Pursuit (Kindle edition)

● The Low Isles (Port Douglas) ● Great Barrier Reef Cays

● Green Island (Cairns) ● Dunk Island, Mission Beach MUST-HAVE CRUISING AND SAILING APPS

● The Sailing Bible: The Complete Guide for All Sailors from Novice to Experienced Skipper (2nd edition)

ZULU WATERWAYS - This is a useful app that allows users to share data about waterways and anchorage locations.

● Diesel Troubleshooter For Boats (Boat Maintenance Guides, Book 3)

The most enjoyable part of sailing the east coast is the places where you stop. Below is a list of some of my favourite anchorages and mooring locations that we stopped at during our recent coast trip.

NAVIONICS - Navionics is our go-to map provider.

We use it on our chart plotter and apps on mobile and tablet. The app also allows for user input to share information about anchorages and moorings, as well as other notable information. Their maps are about as accurate as you can get. In saying that, sometimes all maps can be completely off.

If you are running out of book space in the galley, I would recommend buying a Kindle, since you can keep thousands of ebooks on one device.

Michaelmas Cay, Great Barrier Reef

Anchored in Hinchinbrook Channel

CRUISING AND ISLAND-HOPPING While rivers and creeks can provide some welldeserved calmness, island hopping is where it is at.

And the best islands can be found in Queensland.

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● How To Not Buy a Yacht (Sailing Nandji Book 1)

To read more about Olly Gaspar and his amazing world travels, visit his great online resource at www.weseektravel.com

AUG - NOV 2020

BOAT GOLD COAST

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BOAT REVIEW

2020 FAIRLINE TARGA 45 OPEN A

n icon reborn, reimagined by Alberto Mancini, we’ve designed the new Targa 45 OPEN to be equally powerful, versatile and luxurious. With a touch of Riviera glamour, elegant lines and a low-profile that provides a sportier appeal, the Targa 45 OPEN is perfect for dropping anchor along any coastline, anytime of day.

The Targa 45 OPEN invites you to stretch out on the large sun bed while friends lounge in the cockpit.

Relaxation all around, the expansive sunbeds on both the aft and foredecks ensure wherever you are on board, you are never far from reclining in comfort.

Take shelter from the midday heat under the sleek hardtop. Sunshine at your fingertips, it is responsive to your every need. The electric sliding canvas roof delivers shade when required, and access to the skies whenever wanted. Or simply enjoy the thrill of your next destination appearing rapidly on the horizon.

Switch off the Targa 45 OPEN’s powerful twin engines and settle yourself into the discretely garaged tender.

Cruise inland for lunch with friends, before exploring what lies beyond the next cove.

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"My inspiration is taken from my experience in the mega yacht field, but also from the rich history of Fairline creating timeless, classic, usable yachts for over 50 years."

Alberto Mancini From snorkelling in shallow bays to reclining on deck, abandon yourself to the luxury of time.

The Targa 45 OPEN is convenient, fast, stylish and with its own garage, to store a tender. This yacht is ideal for Broadwater and Moreton Bay cruising, or make your way to the Whitsundays this year. Very seaworthy, at an overall length of 14.2metres and a draught of only 1.20 metres, it’s ideal for the shallows of Queensland waterways.

The layout offers berths for 4-5 passengers, with a total carrying capacity of 12 people. With a top speed of 32 knots and a fuel capacity of 1,300 litres you can go places fast.

For more information on the TARGA 45 OPEN please contact Fairline Queensland dealers Leigh-Smith Yachts www.LSYachts.com.au

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BOAT JOURNEY

BUNDABERG PORT marina FIRST-CLASS MARINE FACILITIES

O

ffering first-class marine facilities on Queenslandâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Coral Coast, Bundaberg Port Marina is well placed with 180 top quality floating berths able to berth vessels up to 130ft. Each berth has power, water and Wi-Fi.

Convenient 24/7 refuelling, modern amenities, courtesy bus, gift shop, coin operated laundromat, public phones, LPG refills and ice are some of the facilities and services available to Marina guests. The complex also houses a fully-licensed restaurant, ships' chandlery, takeaway store, marine brokerage, and a booking office for the Lady Musgrave Experience Tours.

Bundaberg Port Marina is an official Port of Entry into Australia and receives more vessels into Australia than any other on the east coast. The marina offers an easy deep-water, all-weather entrance day or night and this is one the many factors that has contributed to an increasing influx of vessels each year to the Coral Coast. Our boat yard and ship lift facility has become one of the most recognised ship repair facilities on the east coast. The

BOATGOLDCOAST.COM. AU

hardstand and ship lift are considered first class, with a 75t ship lift enabling us to lift vessels with a maximum 6.6m beam, concrete hardstand area, high-pressure cleaning service, fully-enclosed paint shed and work bays for sandblasting activities. The yard provides quality cradles and stands, professional staff and one of the largest dry storage yards on the east coast. The trade complex is accessible from the working yard and has many associated tradesmen available for on-site repairs.

Owners are welcome to complete as little or as much work on their vessels as suits, it is totally up to the individual.

Recreational and commercial operators from all over Australia and the World trust us to store their vessels in our dry storage facility when the time comes to return home.

The dry storage area is fully fenced and we can complete all vessel checks whilst you are away from your vessel. As a testimonial for the care taken of your vessel, many of our clients return season after season to leave their vessel in a safe and secure yard.

The Marina Office is open 7 days per week and provides a courtesy bus for transport into Bundaberg City Monday to Friday and to the Shalom Markets every Sunday. Port Marina Gifts is our beautiful gift store, located in the Marina Office. Pop in and check out our lovely range of resort wear, handbags, beach bags, sarongs, Byron Bay Candles and diffusers, nautical and beach giftware, souvenirs, and the world-famous Maui Jim Sunglasses.

A number of world-class tourist attractions are located in Bundaberg and these include: Bundaberg Rum Distillery Tours, Mon Repos Turtle Sanctuary Tours, Bert Hinkler Aviation Museum, Botanical Gardens, and Bundaberg Brewed Drinks Factory.

All tours can be easily booked through Bundaberg Port Marina and provide an endless opportunity to enjoy our city and surrounds.

We look forward to meeting you all soon at Bundaberg Port Marina. bundabergportmarina.com.au

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BOAT GUIDE JOURNEY

Airlie Beach

Gladstone Bundaberg Scarborough Brisbane Woongoolba

CRUISING NORTH

Mooloolaba

Manly

HORIZON SHORES MARINA - WOONGOOLBA Ideally located between Brisbane and Gold Coast, Horizon Shores Marina is one of the largest wet berth marinas in Australia. The marina caters to vessels up to 80ft in length, including catamarans, houseboats and cruising boats. Visiting boats are welcome, as the marina provides short-term or long-term berthing arrangements to suit your budget. Each berth offers power and water, after-hours security patrols, accesscontrolled and key-entry gates. The marina offers a variety of services: 500 wet berths, 350 dry stack storage bays, 200 trailer boat storage locations, a 70t travelift, 24/7 dockside assistance to catch your lines and assist you into the berth, on-water fuel facility, fresh water, chandlery, marine refit and repair trades, hardstand, and refit sheds, plus licensed onsite cafe.

Lat/Long: S 27° 45' E 153° 21' www.horizonshores.com.au 80 Cabbage Tree Point Rd, Woongoolba 4207 Ph:(07) 5546 2300

EAST COAST MARINA - MANLY East Coast Marina, Manly Boat Harbour, Brisbane boasts 330 secure water berths for boats up to 18m, and a modern undercover dry storage facility for 240 power boats up to 10m. Electricity and water to all marina berths.

24 hour security, gas refill service and ice available. There is fuel within Manly Harbour and a pump-out facility.

A café, amenities to freshen up and laundry on site. A full-service working marina it includes a shipwright, marine engineers, marine electrician, marine trimmers, boat sales, and yachting school which is fully accredited with the RYA. Chandlery, sail makers and riggers are close by. Manly Village is a short walk away, offering a grocery store, post office, newsagency, chemist, coffee shops, restaurants and more. Markets are on some Saturdays and every Sunday. Public transport, airport and city all close by. No club joining or membership fees.

Lat/Long: S 27° 27.6' E 153° 11.2' www.eastcoastmarina.com.au 570 Royal Esplanade, Manly Boat Harbour 4179 Ph:(07) 3393 3811

DOCKSIDE MARINA - BRISBANE Located in the heart of Brisbane City, the marina provides easy access to many of the city's leisure precincts. A clean and modern 76 berth marina, catering to 10m - 40m boats, available for overnight or long-term rentals. The well-managed marina facilities and amenities include water and shore power to each berth, security access, toilets, showers, washrooms, coin laundry, onsite parking.

Party pontoon available for guests, and direct access to the free City Hopper ferry system. Once you have docked, take a short walk to restaurants, cafes and pubs at Kangaroo Point or stroll across the Story Bridge to China Town, or walk a little further on to the heart of the Brisbane CBD for great shopping and entertainment.

Lat/Long: S 27° 28.370' E 153° 02.238' www.docksidemarina.com.au 44 Ferry Street, Kangaroo Point 4169 Ph: 0413 616 268

SCARBOROUGH MARINA Centrally located with direct access to Moreton Bay, Scarborough Marina offers a broad range of services and facilities to suit the needs of all boating enthusiasts. The marina comprises over 230 wet berths, a full service boat yard and a valet-serviced rack storage facility for the modern, affordable and convenient alternative to trailer boating.

Whether passing through or planning to stay, the full-service marina, backed by great customer service, aims to bring back the real enjoyment to your boating. It has a modern cruiser's lounge with TV and free WIFI, electronic-gate access, 24-hour CCTV monitoring, and 24-hour fuel service. Casual, overnight and long-term berthing are available, but bookings are essential. This marina is home to a full-service boatyard and on-site services, including chandlery, rigging, mechanics, boat repairs, and more.

Lat/Long: S 27°10.75’ E 153°06.3’ www.scarbmarina.com.au 28 Thurecht Parade, Scarborough 4020 Ph:(07) 3880 0300 116

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BOAT JOURNEY

Top 8 Marina Spots To Stop Just like a road trip, cruising the coast of Queensland is a delightful adventure. Knowing where to find safe anchorages and fuel stops is important to keep the journey enjoyable. And sometimes, both you and your vessel may also need some TLC, as the wandering spirit becomes weary from the travels.

Here are several recommended marina locations as you cruise north along the Queensland coast.

Photo by www.whitsundayssailingadventures.com.au

MOOLOOLABA MARINA The Sunshine Coast’s largest and most popular marina, Mooloolaba Marina is also home to the Sunshine Coast Yacht Club (SCYC), and the award-winning Pier 33 Restaurant & Bar. The Marina is conveniently located within walking distance to the township of Mooloolaba, one of Queensland’s leading holiday destinations. This central location includes a world class surf beach across the road and easy access to local fresh caught seafood. With a friendly welcoming atmosphere, ideal for a relaxing holiday or short-term stay to unwind from the rigours of ocean cruising. The marina has 265 protected wet berths, with 24-hour access to onshore amenities, berthing assistance, onsite restaurant, gas refilling and BBQ facilities. The marina office is open seven days with access to quality local marine trades and services for maintenance, upgrades, and improvements with fuel and haul-out services located close nearby.

Lat/Long: S 26°, E 153° www.mooloolabamarina.com.au 33-45 Parkyn Parade, Mooloolaba QLD 4557 Ph: (07) 5444 5653

BUNDABERG PORT MARINA Welcome to the gateway of the Southern Great Barrier Reef. The complex can be comparable to arriving at an oasis. The beautifully landscaped lawns and modern amenities make this complex inviting to visiting cruisers from all corners of the globe. Facilities include 180 floating berths, 100 Hardstand and Dry Storage boat spaces, 75-tonne Travelift, 24-hour diesel fuel, laundry, courtesy bus, and the Marina is an official International Port of Entry for vessels travelling from overseas destinations. Several businesses operate within the complex including a fullystocked chandlery, yacht brokers, takeaway, restaurant/café, Lady Musgrave Experience Tours and Diving, gift shop and all associated trades and services to complete all maintenance on your vessel. Cruisers Cove is located in the complex and is a great place to meet other travellers. Fridays are BBQ nights.

Lat/Long: S 24° 45.626, E 152° 23.138 www.bundabergportmarina.com.au/the-marina 15-17 Marina Drive, Port Bundaberg Ph:(07) 4159 5066 info@bundabergportmarina.com.au

GLADSTONE MARINA Your doorstep to the Southern Great Barrier Reef and so much more than just a place to berth your boat. Explore the captivating coral cays nestled off our coast – stunning Heron Island, majestic Lady Musgrave, the beautiful Bunker group - or discover vibrant national parks, freshwater lakes or the spectacular Boyne Valley. Anchor down for the week and meet our friendly staff offering top tips for awesome adventures and local delights - taste the fresh seafood direct from the trawlers or stroll our impressive marina parklands. Access our first-class facilities – they’re sure to impress with wide those last minute services and running repairs. Sail the east coast or dock your craft ready for your next holiday – only an hour flight from Brisbane or a leisurely 6-hour drive. Gladstone Marina is your perfect choice to begin your next adventure.

Lat/Long: S 23° 49.884', E 151° 14.690' www.gpcl.com.au/marina 98 Bryan Jordan Dr, Gladstone Central 4680 Ph: (07) 4976 1399

SHUTE HARBOUR MARINA RESORT - AIRLIE BEACH

Queensland’s newest destination, Shute Harbour Marina Resort is set to become a world-class precinct destined to breathe new life into the region, now and long into the future. Located just 10 kilometres south of Airlie Beach, 25 kilometres north-east of Proserpine and 100 kilometres north of Mackay, Shute Harbour is the closest mainland Marina to the iconic Whitsunday Islands. The resort promises a state-of-the-art marina with private accommodation for the world’s finest yachts and cruisers, a master planned Marina Plaza - Pier 61, with a diverse array of boutique retail and commercial opportunities, as well as sought-after residential allotments and apartments for sale. Berths ranging from 10-30+ metres are pre-selling now, plus there's exclusive retail and commercial leasing opportunities at Pier 61, waterfront residences for sale and luxury accommodation available. Your Whitsundays dream awaits.

Lat/Long: S 20° 17.342', E 148° 46.757' www.shuteharbourmarina.com Shute Harbour Road, Shute Harbour 4802 Stuart Higgins Ph: 0408 832 995 BOATGOLDCOAST.COM. AU

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BOAT BUSINESS

COBLI

The art of ownership Introducing Lagoon, Axopar and Pardo Yachts High-End Equity Share Ownership

THE FOUNDATION

MORE TIME ON THE WATER

Having imported hundreds of boats into Australia and New Zealand, Peter Hrones and John Cowpe felt that the time was right for an importer to bring to the table an offering for high-end equity share ownership. In doing so, they are developing an offering for bespoke fractional ownership opportunities, high-end service, and only the very latest and best products available on the market.

Over the years, the founders have received owners' feedback suggesting that many syndication companies are offering too many shares and therefore miss out on spending time aboard during the warmer seasons and special events. Cobli therefore is offering limited shares of between 4-6 owners, maximising time on the water.

The two have been involved in the equity ownership model for many years and have supported several businesses in their efforts. In fact, one of the very first models in the marketplace was developed by Peter. “It feels good to now come full circle and launch Cobli”, he says.

EASY AND STRESS-FREE

EXCLUSIVE OPPORTUNITIES Peter and John represent some of the world’s most prestigious on-water brands including Lagoon, Axopar and Pardo Yachts, each of which are exclusively sold through Eyachts and The Multihull Group. As such, clients of Cobli can look forward to a wide range of exclusive ownership opportunities.

Cobli's product offerings are curated to make sense — from the latest catamarans based between Sydney and the Whitsunday islands to high-end day boats for entertaining and enjoyment on Sydney Harbour and beyond.

Cobli even allows clients to access the very top end of town with ownership opportunities in the incredible Lagoon Seventy8 Motor Yacht.

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Peter Hrones and John Cowpe

All vessels under Cobli will be managed and maintained to the highest of standards so owners don’t need to worry about anything. The founders have developed a state-of-the-art booking system to remove friction from the process.

SMART INVESTMENT Vessels will be brought in from new, and exited in good time to maximise a high resale value.

This means more equity is returned to owners who can then choose to continue on to the latest model or move to full ownership.

Cobli will launch with products available on a limited basis in NSW with annual exhibitions to the Whitsundays. The site is currently locked with password protection and will launch on the 26th of August. Prospective clients in all states can request a password to gain access by sending an email to info@cobli.net. www.cobli.net AUG - NOV 2020

Gladstone Marina - your doorstep to the Southern Great Barrier Reef.

Gladstone Ports Corporation is proud to provide Gladstone Marina for locals and visitors to our region. Gladstone Marina is the gateway to many popular holiday destinations including Heron Island, Lady Musgrave Island and the Capricorn Bunker Group, and is the closest marina from South East Queensland to the Southern Great Barrier Reef. Anchor down for your weekend or week, and enjoy what the Gladstone region has to offer!

Gladstone Marina 98 Bryan Jordan Drive Gladstone Central QLD 4680 07 4976 1399

gpcl.com.au BOATGOLDCOAST.COM. AU

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