BOAT GOLD COAST MAGAZINE AUGUST - OCTOBER 2016

BOATGOLDCOAST.COM.AU | AUG-OCT 2016

FREE MAGAZINE OUR RICH

SAILING LIFESTYLE

FISHING FEATURES

WHITING, MULLET, FLATHEAD SPEAR FISHING & FLY FISHING

DIY POWER BOAT MAINTENANCE

A PROTECTED ISLAND

South Stradbroke

BOAT GOLD COAST

Editor’s Note

I

t is not money that seems to be the biggest problem these days.

By the looks of it, being time-poor has become the new type of “poverty” that affects the human race. We rush with time to catch up with new technologies. Even modern jobs entail constant sprinting with the latest devices and upgrades. And more often than not, the technology we use to give us more time to focus on other things, ends up also taking up much of our time.

Add to that, everyone who is trying to sell us something is competing for our attention in the virtual world. We are bombarded with online information about the latest apps or the upgrade software for your gadgets. We spend hours and hours sitting in front of the screen searching for information, and looking at what others have posted about this boat and that gear, or how others are showing off their amazing lifestyle. And suddenly, we don’t have enough time left to enjoy ourselves. Such is our life!

In this edition, our contributors share how you can better spend your time. Cast your fishing line for that whiting or flathead.

(P18,28) Learn to flyfish or spear fish. (P26, 66) Pick up some tips for cleaning and maintaining your vessel regularly. (P32,64) Reflect on the past 70 years of the Southport Yacht Club, one of the most impressive histories of Gold Coast boating. (P44) Sit down and listen to sailing podcasts. (P48) Satisfy your palate by cooking up a plate, or dining at local restaurants with a view. (P56) Revisit South Stradbroke Island. (P61) Spend a day or two just exploring the islands on Southern Moreton Bay. (P69) We are living in challenging times. So we challenge you to go out there - use your boat, borrow a boat, rent a boat, paddle or sail a boat, or just be on one. Decide that you do have the time.

Our Crew

PUBLISHER

Competitive Brands Pty. Ltd.

andy@boatgoldcoast.com.au

DIRECTOR

Andy Kancachian

EDITOR

Roselle Tenefrancia editor@boatgoldcoast.com.au

ADVERTISE

Richard Newman

richard@boatgoldcoast.com.au

Michael Von Backstrom michael@boatgoldcoast.com.au

CONTRIBUTORS Marcel Priest, Ian Anderson, Nic Welch, Matthew Brown, Paul Burt, Michael Aird, Tom Boylan, Denis O’Connel, Mandy Brown, Luke Dernedde, Captain John Kavanagh, David Hows, Scott Whimpey, Derek Ellard, Michael Von Backstrom, Sally Jenyns, Paige Mengel, Gary Fooks, Jonathon Rodgers, Brendan Taylor, Martin Wilson, David Willmington.

COVER PHOTO Wildflower 2 owned by Glenn Burrell, competing in the 2016 Southport Yacht Club Sail Paradise Series.

Roselle

editor@boatgoldcoast.com.au

Connect with us BoatGoldCoast

Please address all communication to: Boat Gold Coast P.O. Box 7441, Gold Coast MC 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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Gold Coast is a free quarterly publication, distributing around the Gold Coast from Jacob’s Well to Tweed River region. We encourage contributions from the Gold Coast community that support the Gold Coast boating industry, and promote the fun, safe and sustainable use of the Gold Coast waterways. We are an independent publication, with no political or social alliances to any office, group or association. Opinions expressed in the articles are of the contributors, and not of the publisher or editor.

Boat Gold Coast prints 10,000 copies per issue. We encourage recycling.

Please pass this on to others, repurpose, or place in the recycling bin.

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Sail into Marina Mirage this Season Visit the iconic Marina Mirage and experience an exceptional range of luxury motor yachts from Geoff Lovett International, AMT Marine Luxury Boat Brokerage, Ray White Marine and more.

Marina Berths - Luxury Charters - Gold Coast Heli Tours Aware Winning Waterfront Restaurants - Boutique Fashion Saturday Gourmet Farmers Markets - Live Entertainment

74 Seaworld Drive, Marina Beach See marinamirage.com.au

BOAT GOLD COAST

INSIDE THIS ISSUE 8 Marina Destinations 12 Events Guide 18 Fish for Whiting 22 Waterways Life 26 Flyfishing 28 Flathead Classic 30 Mullet Memoir 32 DIY Jet Ski Service 35 SICYC Rendezvous 38 Clipper Race Sailor 42 Boat Registration

WORLD FAMOUS SAILING HISTORY p.44

48 Sailing Podcasts 50 Boaties First Aid 52 Mountain Boat Builder 56 Food Galley 6 1 Sth Stradbroke Island 62 Two-Stroke Ban 64 DIY Boat Maintenance 66 Spear Fishing 69 Local Island Hoping

FEATURED MAGAZINE OUTLETS vailable at waterfront and boating businesses throughout the Gold A Coast, from Tweed Heads to Manly. Grab your next copy of Boat Gold Coast Magazine at one of our featured participating locations: TWEED HEADS Ivory Coast Marina, Ivory Tavern, 156 Wharf St Boyds Bay Houseboat, Tweed Marina, River Terrace SOUTHPORT Southport Yacht Club, 1 MacArthur Parade, Main Beach STS Marine, 2/9 Enterprise St, Molendinar Marine Mirage Office, 49/74 Seaworld Drive, Main Beach RUNAWAY BAY Klein’s Coffee Bar & Grill, 247 Bayview Street Viking Tackle, 247 Bayview Street HOPE ISLAND BoatsRus, Marina Shopping Village, 10 Santa Barbara Rd Marina’s Edge, 1 John Lund Drive, Marina Quays SANCTUARY COVE Leigh-Smith Yachts, 42 D&E Quay Street The Harbour Master’s Jetty Office COOMERA MARINE PRECINCT Gold Coast City Marina Office, 76-84 Waterway Drive The Galley Café, The Boat Works, 200 Beattie Road JACOBS WELL Horizon Shores Marina, 1 Cabbage Tree Point Rd, Woongoolba Calypso Bay Marina, Harrigans Ln, Jacobs Well BRISBANE Northside Marine, 2294 Sandgate Rd, Boondall Royal Queensland Yacht Squadron, 578 Royal Esplanade, Manly Moreton Bay Trailer Boat CLub, 34 Fairlead Cres, Manly BOATGOLDCOAST.COM. AU

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BOAT PHOTOGRAPHY

A HENS DAY OUT

PHOTO AND TEXT BY MATTHEW BROWN

Captured on the bow of Epsilon while cruising the Broadwater, these ladies were on a Hens Day out party. I was taking photos for the owner of the charter vessel, who requested a range of images showing his clients enjoying the boat’s space.

On this day, I took plenty of shots with my two full frame Nikons with various lenses, and being on a sailing boat was looking for other interesting angles. This particular photo, I was standing directly on the bow of the vessel, using a GoPro Hero 3 Black on an extension pole, which swiveled. By using the GoPro app on the phone, I was able to make the composition from above. I like how the photo has symmetry and is a combination of posed and un-posed from the ladies. I remember framing the shot as they were chatting, then requested the ladies to just give a little look up for me.

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The most difficult aspect of taking the photo was probably the composition. Although I had the GoPro app showing the subjects on screen, I wanted to include as much of the boat as possible, while keeping the guests in main frame. I made sure the image was as symmetrical as possible, rather than try for a rule-ofthirds approach.

The main challenge when taking photos out at sea is setting the right exposure for the weather conditions.

To ensure photos are interesting, capturing depth in the images is the trick. Keeping objects in either the foreground or background of the subject matter is also difficult to accomplish, as you are limited in space when moving around a deck to finding interesting angles.

Another challenge with nautical photography is retaining the correct colour balance when editing. And obviously, keeping the salt out of the high-end gear that offers no protection, is also problematic.

One important tip is frame to capture as much in the shot as possible, and as quickly as possible, so as not to have the ‘too staged’ look on the talents’ faces.

These wide shots can be cropped in your editing software at a later date.

The post-edit of the image proved difficult, as a GoPro image file do not store anywhere near the detail and colour data as a raw DSLR file. I was conscious to keep the natural colour of the water, while emphasising the white of the boat in frame.

About the Boat: The owner takes care of his vessel, more like his personal boat rather than a charter boat.

Epsilon is a Vadbestadt 38 built in 1999 and owned by Michael Tromp of Champagne Sailing Cruises. Epsilon has a rich history, having won the Sydney to Hobart Yacht Race in 2001 (IMSC division) and has competed three other times. (champagnesailingcruises.com.au) About the photographer: Matthew Brown owns Blask Photography and VideoDriven Productions. He is self-taught on a Nikon d80 in 2007, while working as a deckhand on superyachts in Italy, Croatia, France, and Monaco, and all through the Caribbean, from Fort Lauderdale to Barbados. Matthew discovered his drive for photography making slideshows for the guests onboard, at the completion of their charters. Upon his return to Australia, Matthew studied Commercial Arts. (blaskphotography.com.au)

AUG - OCT 2016

BOAT GOLD COAST

KEVLACAT SERIES 3000

OVERCOMING BIG SEAS FOR A BIG CATCH You can take your wife and family out for the day because this boat is packed with impressive features making the journey comfortable and safe.

Hayden adds, “The cockpit can be entirely enclosed with a full-length canopy. The seating is well cushioned around the extended dinette that has a fold-down table and a forward seat with reversible backrest. The lockable forward cabin is fully lined and offers a double berth with under-stowage.”

There is a large anchor locker with anchor winch, making solo fishing adventures also possible. The fishing platform is uncluttered and everything can be hidden away.

Built with self-draining deck and a handy deck wash, the cockpit has a bait station and cutting board on the transom, six rod holders mounted on the gunwale, and another eight on the hard top. There is a handy fish/ice box, 120-litre fresh water tank, two under-floor storage wells, and a self-draining flush hatch.

W

idely regarded as the ultimate offshore boat specifically designed for the testing conditions of the east coast of Australia - the 8.0 Metre catamaran hull is derived from the award winning 7.2 Metre, and is available in an open style hardtop, cuddy cabin and lockable hardtop.

Local Kevlacat dealer principal, Hayden Wyld of Wyld About Boats, says “Synonymous with the legendary Queensland-made Kevlacat range, this boat promises a smooth ride and excellent sea handling, capable of coping with the rough seas experienced by serious local fishos.”

Wyld explains the reason behind the Kevlacat’s impressive handling. “In these types of tough

BOATGOLDCOAST.COM. AU

conditions, the high-sided dual hulls pierce through the waves, which buffers the impact and shield the crew from overspray. These hulls are bullet proof, made from Kevlar cloth and vinylester resins between layers of fibreglass.”

The Kevlacat Series 3000 is fitted with the iconic 5-piece safety glass windscreen. Moving around the boat is easy with a large access hatch in the fore deck as well as a wrap-around stainless steel bow rail.

Hayden declares, “Big seas are no problem. The Reelax deluxe helm seats with moulded foot rests allow the captain control while under power, and the passenger has a grab rail on the dash, if required.

“Off shore, safety is guaranteed with Icom VHF radio and aerial (fitted). At the helm is adequate space for all required navigational aids and gauges for monitoring your location and the boat’s performance,” Hayden reassures.

The factory-fitted hydraulic steering and the two large 450-litre fuel tanks, mean that the boat is geared for long range in rough seas. “We recommend packaging the boat with 250 HP or 300 HP 4-stroke Mercury outboard engines, delivering an economical and quiet 30 knots-plus cruise of speed, with a WOT of over 50 knots. However, we can build-to-order Mercury diesel stern drives or even a shaft drive model, so there is sure to be something suitable for all fishing activities,” declares Hayden.

“With a Kevlacat Series 3000, catching the big one in big seas is a piece of cake.” This is Hayden’s promise.

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BOAT GUIDE FEATURE

Marina Destinations Earlier this year, the Marina Industries Association of Australia (MIA) released the Club Marine 2015 Health of the Australian Marina Industry Survey (2015 Marina Industry Survey). In a statement released

by MIA, the marina industry proves to be very healthy.

“The survey findings reveal that Australian marinas are financially healthy and over half of the marinas expect revenues to grow in the 2015-2016 FY. The majority of marinas continue to undertake various measures to enhance their facilities and the quality of the service(s) offered.

The findings also strongly suggest that there continues to be ‘demand’ for marinas to add storage spaces and customer services.”

MARINA 101 A marina has been defined as a specially designed harbour with moorings for pleasure yachts and small boats, 50 metres or less. (Oxford) It has also been defined as “a group of pontoons, jetties, piers, or similar structures designed or adapted to provide berthing for craft used primarily for pleasure or recreation and may include ancillary works such as slipways, facilities for the repair and maintenance of boats and the provision of fuel, provisions and accessories”. (AS 3962-2001) Marinas may be located along the banks of rivers connecting to lakes or seas and may be inland.

They are also located on coastal harbours (natural or man made) or coastal lagoons, either as standalone facilities or within a port complex.

A marina may have refueling, washing and repair facilities, marine and boat chandleries, retail shops and restaurants. It may include ground facilities such as parking lots for vehicles and boat trailers.

It may provide in- or out-of-water boat storage.

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Fee-based services such as parking, use of picnic areas, pubs and clubhouses are usually included in long-term rental agreements. Visiting boaties usually have the option of buying each amenity from a fixed schedule of fees. Arrangements can be as wide as a single use, such as a shower, or several weeks of temporary berthing. Since marinas are often limited by available space, it may take years on a waiting list to get a permanent berth.

Marinas may be owned and operated by a private club, especially yacht clubs - but also as private enterprises or municipal facilities. Marinas may be stand-alone private businesses, components of a resort, or owned and operated by public entities.

In Australia, there are currently 346 marinas nationwide. The design, manufacturing and operation standard that the marina industry follow is the AS 3962-2001. It sets out guidelines for the design of marinas suitable for vessels up to 50m in length, and covers fixed berth and floating pontoon marina systems, single pontoons and floating wave attenuators. Guidance is also provided for onshore facilities such as dry boat storage, boatlifts, boat ramps and associated parking facilities.

Marinas not only benefit the boaties and the marine industry in general, but they also have a very significant social and economic value to the community in the locality they are in.

According to the 2015 Marina Industry Survey, Australian marinas create employment for over 23,000 people. Job creation is steadily increasing in this sector and the industry is optimistic on this aspect. Marinas that offer direct boat services comprise businesses that employ staff to deliver required skills and expertise.

The immediate community also benefits from having marinas. Marinas produce an aesthetic amenity to the locality by creating ambiance and scenery that only a boat harbour can provide.

Tourism is promoted in the area, as these marinas are destinations by themselves. Some marinas offer land-based accommodation, retail and restaurant options, and thus give the non-boaties the opportunity to enjoy the destination.

The role of marinas in environmental protection is also a growing responsibility.

ISO 14001:2015 is the International Standard that specifies the requirements for an environmental management system that an organisation can use to enhance its environmental performance,

and is the guideline used in the marina industry.

Using best practices, marinas have a huge role in enhancing the environment on which they are located through constant monitoring of water quality and educating marina visitors about the local aquatic habitat.

THE INDUSTRY IN PERSPECTIVE The MIA is the peak representative body for marinas, slipways, boatyards, berthing, mooring and other marine storage facilities, as well as sailing and cruising yacht clubs, in Australia. Its membership comprises more than 85% of the major Australian marinas, including a number of members from overseas.

Its role is “to contribute to the sustainable development of the industry and its members through the promotion of marinas and the provision of education, accreditation and research programs and policies.” It has developed the Clean Marinas and the Fish-Friendly Marinas programs that entail environmental accreditation for its members.

Although it has a big role in terms of the development and progress of the industry, the MIA is not a regulatory body. However, it aims to keep its members ahead of government regulations through continually lifting the level of professionalism in the industry.

Technology is also a big factor in the management of marinas. According to Colin Bransgrove, executive officer of the MIA, “Each marina is unique so their needs for technology and innovation can differ. However, like most businesses, the use of computer software is required by marinas to be more productive in areas such as managing boat storage and communication with customers. From an innovation perspective, marinas are adopting energy-saving technologies related to power and water savings. As regulations make boat repairs and maintenance more difficult, more marinas are innovating with new income streams through providing leisure and recreational services and facilities, such a kayak hire and kayak storage, boat hire and boat share, and by expanding food and dining options.”

While the 2015 Survey showed a strong marina industry, there are still challenges that face the marinas. Colin expounds, “Marinas have many of the same challenges as any business such as taxes, labour costs and red tape. However, the waterside location of marinas creates specific AUG - OCT 2016

BOAT FEATURE

Innovation & Lifestyle issues such as lease arrangements, and in many instances, a lack of long-term security of tenure that can be an issue for banks. Some government landlords do not fully appreciate the public amenity many marinas deliver (fuel services, dining and function facilities etc.) and they do not factor these community benefits into the equation for marina lease charges. We also have marinas that have for over a decade been wading through planning and development processes. This is a serious barrier to any upgrading of marina infrastructure.”

By their very nature, marinas often face the problems caused by salt water. “Marina maintenance due to the salt-water interface is a significant and ongoing cost for marinas. Long-term planning and budgeting is needed to keep on top of the wear and tear, particularly around the on-water pontoon infrastructure,” continues Colin.

While the value of marinas as an amenity to the community is recognised, there is still the need for continuing education about the benefits of marinas.

Colin further explains, “Reputable marina research is important to demonstrate the benefits of marinas to government and communities. And this is why MIA’s research program is very important.”

GOLD COAST MARINAS There are about 20 marinas, slipways and boatyards within the jurisdiction of the City of Gold Coast. There is only one marina owned by a yacht club (Southport Yacht Club), while the rest are privately owned businesses. Several boatyards and slipways offer comprehensive services, and some even have dining options. Many are also attached to lifestyle establishments that offer boaties and the public shopping, dining and other leisure activities.

The Gold Coast is a unique and globally competitive marine destination and industry hub.

Colin identifies three matters of priority for the city. “Ensuring the city’s competitive advantage is firstly recognised by governments and the community is an on-going priority for the industry.

Secondly, to build on this opportunity with suitable planning and investment is very important. Thirdly, the industry can continue to be a growing source of employment and economic growth for the Gold Coast if the opportunity is fully understood and a long term strategic approach is taken to encourage sustainable industry development.”

BOATGOLDCOAST.COM. AU

Managers of some Gold Coast marinas have also expressed concerns for ensuring sustainability through the promotion of tourism and keeping waterways clean and safe. “It is essential to support our government authorities on dredging initiatives for our waterways as it is essential to maintain safe and deep navigational channels, and on promoting the Gold Coast as a boating destination,” says Helen Motteram, marine operations manager of Mulpha Sanctuary Cove Marina.

Mark Riddell, waterfront manager of Southport Yacht Club, affirms the need for dredging. “We need more dredging for the channels, so we can get the bigger boats in.” Paul Sorrel, general manager of Horizon Shores Marina, further confirms, “Dredging waterways enable crafts to navigate safely.” Steve Sammes, chief operating officer of the Gold Coast City Marina, also adds, “More berthage is needed to accommodate the demands of superyachts.”

“Protecting our environment is our priority, and every effort is made to protect our ecosystems,” asserts Gary Klein, marina manager of Boat Masters Hope Harbour. “Regulations governing the marina sector are very strict, covering everything from waste water runoff to air pollution. However, we still rely on the boating public to safely dispose of their waste with due consideration for our sensitive environment.”

The diversity that the City offers to various sectors adds to the value of the Gold Coast as a unique destination, and the marinas are no exceptions.

Paul and Steve best state the uniqueness of the Gold Coast marinas. Paul says, “The Gold Coast as we all know is a unique combination of open seas, protected waterways and numerous canals.

Because of this, each marina is different and caters for different boats and price points—from the Coomera Marine Precinct, which is halfway down the bends and winds of the Coomera River, to the open waters of the Broadwater. It’s hard to find another on-water location that can match the vast choice that the Gold Coast offers to boating enthusiasts and charter operators,” while Steve sums up, “The Gold Coast marinas are unique because of their location, the services afforded and the variety of destinations right on the door step to choose from. The proximity to two major airports, tourism attractions, theme parks and our unique hinterland contribute to the uniqueness of the Gold Coast.”

By Roselle Tenefrancia

Photo by Sanctuary Cove

VISITORS CODE OF CONDUCT Marinas are important assets to a community.

Everyone who uses or visits marinas should observe proper behavior. Here are helpful tips given by the marina managers on the Gold Coast: 1. Use the on-shore facilities as much as possible (toilets, showers, etc.)

2. Keep your vessel well maintained at all times.

3. Make sure you keep to the speed limit with no wash. Look behind you, and always check your wash.

4. Do not pump out your tanks inside the marinas.

5. Keep your areas tidy to avoid hazards to others.

6. When coming in, brief your crew and/or have your lines and fenders ready.

7. Utilise re-usable bags for shopping and other needs.

8. Be nice to your neighbours.

Be considerate of your fellow boaties at all times.

9. Respect your environment.

10. Educate yourself. (Australian Boating College conducts free education nights at Horizon Shores.)

LIST OF GOLD COAST MARINAS Bayview Harbour Yacht Squadron Boat Masters Hope Harbour Calypso Bay Marina Coomera Waters Marina Couran Cove Island Resort Ephraim Island Marina Gold Coast City Marina Hope Harbour Marina Hope Island Marina Horizon Shores Marina Marina Mirage Mariner's Cove Marina Mulpha Sanctuary Cove Marina Palazzo Versace Marina Riviera Marina Runaway Bay Marina Salacia Waters Marina Southport Yacht Club Sovereign Island The Boat Works *Not all marinas offer public berthing. Contact the marina offices directly for more information on berthing and other services.

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AUG - OCT 2016

BOAT GOLD COAST

A SHIPYARD OCEANS APART

IN THE SOUTHERN HEMISPHERE

O

n e of the true innovators of the Australian marine industry, Gold Coast City Marina & Shipyard opened nearly 16 years ago after five years of planning and construction, as a purpose-built facility designed specifically to remove the pressure points of boating.

It was one of the first facilities in Australia to adopt the philosophy of ‘marine clustering’ - putting marinerelated businesses together in one convenient location - almost like a shopping centre for boaties. Now under new ownership and management, this team of passionate boaties are ready to keep on innovating so customers can enjoy ‘a lot more boating and a lot less hassle’.

In 2000, the gates at GCCM opened to what was and still is the most comprehensive facility of its kind in Australia, featuring a world-class marina, dry storage and shipyard facilities, plus over 60 specialist onsite businesses employing over 500 marine-related contractors. Since then, this boating mecca has lifted, maintained, refitted, repaired, stored and built over 50,000 vessels, from jet skis to super yachts. It has become an international benchmark that many have imitated and is a vital part of the Gold Coast Marine Precinct on the Coomera River.

Today, the team at GCCM are focused on continuing to lead the way in the marine industry and continuing to innovate in order to provide every conceivable marine solution so the customers can enjoy maximum boating pleasure. This focus is fuelled by a team of passionate mariners who go to great lengths to provide the services and facilities to get boats back on the water as quickly and efficiently as possible. “That’s the bond that glues this team together,” says Director Trenton Gay. “It’s part of the DNA of GCCM.” When he refers to ‘this team’, Mr Gay means the tenants and staff alike.

“We’re all boaties, so we understand that every boatie’s boat is his or her happy place. We understand how hard people work to get a boat and

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how hard they work to maintain a boat, so we want to see them get as much enjoyment out of their boat as possible. That definitely doesn’t mean more time than necessary on the hardstand or in a refit shed.

That’s why GCCM was created. Everyone here loves getting boats back out on the water where they belong and keeping them out there for as long as possible,” Mr Gay enthuses.

One of the most iconic examples of this team’s passion for getting boats back on the water, was the support they provided to Jessica Watson when she collided with a freighter in Moreton Bay in the leadup to her bid to become the youngest person ever to sail solo around the world. Over 40 workers and volunteers worked around the clock and donated over $50,000 worth of repair costs so Jess could get out and achieve her boating dream. It’s a story that speaks volumes about the passion this crew of boaties have for helping other boaties.

“A lot of our customers rave about the facilities and equipment at GCCM. But what we also hear time and time again is that it takes way less time to complete work here than at other marinas. That’s not simply because we have the most comprehensive offering in the industry, it’s also because our trades are the best of the best. We all like working together to achieve the best result for our customers,” shares Gay. In 2014, the Gay Group Of Companies took sole ownership of the facility. In 2015, the newly consolidated team were pleased to achieve a raft of industry accolades including Best Marina & Boatyard Facility 2015/16, Best Dry Storage Facility 2015/16 and Superyacht Australia Business of the Year.

“Pleased, but never satisfied,” says Steve Sammes, Chief Operating Officer of GCCM. “We have spent the last 24 months working hard behind the scenes on plans to take the level of convenience and customer

service on offer to the boating industry to a whole new level - a level beyond compare.”

In June this year, GCCM launched a new website that makes it easier than ever before for boaties to make enquiries and obtain estimates for all of their boating requirements. “We wanted to make light work for our customers as we know many of them are time-poor.

The new website makes everything easier. There is a great business directory for our onsite services and enquiries and estimates can be requested at the touch of a button,” explains Sammes.

“Yes, it’s about upgrading and creating new facilities. But it’s also about creating the right team, the right culture and customer experience, and the most efficient processes to get boats back on the water faster and for longer than any other facility.

That’s always been our number one goal. But we have to keep focusing on our customers and raising the bar year-in year-out,” adds Sammes.

Customer focus, collaboration and innovation are central to GCCM’s future plans. Gay states, “The Gold Coast City Marina & Shipyard that you see today was realised by people who wanted and could envisage better for all boaties, regardless of whether they were local or travelling from the other side of the ocean to get here, and regardless of whether they had a 10-foot tinnie or a 200-foot super yacht. For the past two years, we’ve been dreaming it all up again. And this year, we have begun the process of putting it all into action.”

So far, the feedback from customers have been outstanding. They are enjoying a whole new level of convenience, service and satisfaction. And the crew at GCCM just want to keep raising the bar.

Discover more about the new look GCCM at gccm.com.au.

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AUG

TWEED VALLEY JET SPRINT CLUB

AUDI HAMILTON 20-27 ISLAND RACE WEEK Australia’s largest offshore keelboat regatta offers events and classes, ranging from the Grand Prix class for top-class racers, to corporate, bareboat and non-spinnaker divisions.

The race is conducted on the waters of the Whitsunday Passage and surrounds. (hamiltonislandraceweek.com.au)

The Brisbane Boat Show has served Australia’s largest boating population well for over 50 years.

This year, organisers promise a fresh approach at a new venue, the Brisbane Convention and Exhibition Centre. Don’t miss the best offerings from Queensland marine dealers. (brisbaneboatshow.com.au)

GOLD COAST SHOW

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26-28

In 2016, the most spectacular Show in its history celebrates a special milestone: 110th anniversary year! This means more fun, more excitement and more amazing entertainment. Create history together at the Gold Coast Show for future generations. (www.goldcoastshow.com.au)

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The Marine Village Sanctuary Cove will erupt in celebration as it hosts the annual Sanctuary Cove Festival.

A full day of free entertainment and attractions featuring classic and luxury cars, world-class boats, fabulous live music and delicious food. Sunday from 10am. (sanctuarycove.com)

GOLD COAST LIQUID LIGHTENING

OCT

15-16

Two big days of electrifying racing at the Marine Stadium (The Spit).

Join the thrill and excitement of power boat circuit racing in a number of boat classes including Unlimited Outboard, Unlimited Hydroplane and Unlimited Displacement classes. (gcpbsc.com)

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‘Experience the whole world in one day.’ With international acts from up to 35 nations on three festival stages, 65 stalls of international food, art, craft and information. Children rides and activities. Experience the rich cultural diversity of the Gold Coast.

Southport Broadwater Parklands (goldcoastculturalfestival.org)

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19-21

SANCTUARY COVE FESTIVAL

2016 GOLD COAST MULTICULTURAL FESTIVAL

A purpose-built Jetboat race track is the venue for the Australian V8 Superboats, the top class of racing in jetsprinting with the boats being unrestricted and using methanol fuel.

AFJSA Round 4-Qualifying, Saturday Aug 6, and Finals, Sunday Aug 7.

AFJSA Round 5-Qualifying, Saturday Sep 3, and Finals, Sunday Sep 4. (tweedvalleyjetsprintclub.com.au)

EVENTS GUIDE AU G – O C T 20 1 6 2016 BRISBANE BOAT SHOW

AUG FEB

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GREAT NORTHERN BREWING CO. FLATHEAD CLASSIC

AUG

SHAG ISLET CRUISING 25-28 YACHT CLUB (SICYC) RENDEZVOUS The rendezvous is the annual gathering of SICYC members at Shag Islet situated on the Gloucester Passage in the Whitsunday Region in North Queensland. A not-for-profit group supporting the Prostate Cancer Foundation of Australia. This year’s theme is ‘Parrot Head’. (sicyc.org)

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An iconic event on the fishing tournament calendar and attracts sportfishers from around the country. The event offers random prize pool, giveaways, entertainment and much more. There is a 200team cut-off for the number of competitors, so don’t delay. (flatheadclassic.com.au)

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GOLD COAST MARINE 15-16 FAMILY FESTIVAL

GOLD COAST 600 V8 SUPERCARS RACING

Southport Yacht Club at Main Beach is open to all visitors, with live entertainment and family fun activities. Experience free Discover Sailing for kids and adults. Large vessels open for viewing, trailerable boats on displays and on-water trials.

10am-4pm. (southportyachtclub.com.au)

The V8 Supercars Championship, as well as world renowned Stadium Super Trucks, will ramp up the ontrack action with the international spectacle joining Porsche Carrera Cup, V8 Utes and Formula 4.

Entertainment includes Cold Chisel performing live on Saturday night. (v8supercars.com.au)

21-23

Runaway Bay

MARINE SERVICE

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*Swiftco Trailers use Certegy Ezy Pay, which requires a small deposit depending on which trailer purchased. You can choose from 24, 36 or 40 month periods. **Finance application to approved customers. Terms and conditions apply. All prices subject to change without notice. Sales price is for cash payments only. Prices lists are starting prices for each model, please see website for full details For full details please call or visit our website.

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fresh water flush system that flushes the system after every use and on a weekly basis. This feature extends the life of the membranes and reduces system maintenance requirements.

The Blue Water range offers various production capacities to fulfill the needs of both recreational and commercial boats, with a daily production capacity from 757 to 12,870 litres of fresh water, depending on the size of the Blue Water system.

The Explorer series is the most popular due to value for money that it offers. The smallest systems can be installed for approximately $12,000, while many boat manufacturers offer a factory-fitted Blue Water system from $15,000 to $32,000 depending on the size and features required by the owner.

From SEA WATER to FRESH WATER Blue Water

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ustralian Marine Wholesale, founded by Errol Cain and based at The Boat Works in Coomera, has recently been named the Blue Water Desalination International Dealer of the Year. The competition was amongst 50 Blue Water Desalination dealers worldwide, so this is a great achievement for an Australian company contending against much larger international markets.

The growing demand for desalination equipment is driven by boat owners’ needs to have a constant supply of potable water while on board for cooking, showers, washing the vessel, and general liveaboard requirements.

Mr Cain says, “Desalination water makers were once considered an extravagant option aboard a cruising yacht or power boat. However, these days they are very much standard equipment, with our popular installations incorporating two units. Many boat owners plan on taking their vessel north to the Whitsundays and there is nothing more frustrating than needing to find water every few days whilst enjoying their boating time. So a Blue Water system makes sense.”

To simplify, Mr Cain explains these ingenious and compact systems. “Using a process of reverse osmosis, we enable boat owners to convert salt water to fresh water, providing virtually limitless mineral-free water which has been proven to be better on the vessel’s fresh-water system and extends the boat’s topcoat life.”

A water maker increases a boat’s travel range, which makes a family day out or a fishing cruise more comfortable, and ensures living aboard is possible.

These new generation Blue Water desalination systems are low-noise and modular, and are neatly hidden away in the engine room. The integration of automated technology is easily controlled and monitored at the helm, in the salon or with wireless remote control via your mobile phone or tablet, anywhere in the world.

The systems can be preprogrammed with a schedule to create fresh water for the owner’s production and quality needs. In case of emergency, they can be manually controlled to stop, start and flush the units. All Blue Water systems include an automated

Mr Cain attributes some the product’s domestic and international success through partnerships with several big-named boat manufacturers. “The Blue Water Desalination systems are installed as standard equipment or as a factory option by Riviera Boats, Westport Yachts, Marlow Yachts, Cheoy Lee Shipyards, Hargrave Custom yachts, Horizon Motor Yachts, Paul Mann Custom Boats, Fleming Yachts and other boat manufacturers.”

United States-based managing director of Blue Water Desalination, Jim Santa, expresses pride for the Australian distributor. “Errol Cain and the entire Australian Marine Wholesale team do a tremendous job of representing Blue Water Desalination and our products throughout Australia. Their many years of experience allow them to provide unparalleled professional pre-sale support and after-sales service to their customers. We are proud to be associated with such an excellent organization.”

Mr Cain, who is a qualified engineer with a lifelong interest in the boating lifestyle, announces, “We recently upgraded our showroom at The Boat Works.

The new showroom is where people can see and touch each brand and compare, and our certified installation and after sales service complete the package.” The Blue Water desalination display, as well as other latest marine technology, is dedicated to servicing existing boat owners’ and boat builders’ needs for the future.

Australian Marine Wholesale is the exclusive importer and distributor for Blue Water Desalination Systems, Pacific Light Desalination, Lumitec LED lighting, and IRIS Innovations Marine Camera Systems, as well as representing the top marine brands such as Garmin, Furuno, Raymarine, Simrad and in entertainment systems Fusion, Clarion and Bose.

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CHAPARRAL H2O – ENTRY LEVEL HEROES T h e popular H2O entry-level bow riders from Chaparral have taken the world by storm, quickly becoming the highest selling 18”-21” in several key markets around the world. The Australian importers celebrated the 200th H2O sale since the 2016 Sanctuary Cove launch earlier this year and have continued their success with several more sales over the recent boat show season.

With 31 models to choose from, which Chaparral are you?......

Chaparral have been an industry force for 53 years and have a solid reputation for innovation, quality and performance. The Saltwater ethos at Chaparral is obvious when you get on board. The higher freeboard and windscreens, drainage systems, top end materials and stylish design are definitely a cut above the rest.

But according to Scott O’Hare, from Chaparral Australia, the real proof of a superior hull is when you go for a test drive. “We love taking buyers out for a spin in the H2O’s, because they don’t expect such great performance.

Our extended V-Plane hulls are quick out of the hole with minimal bow rise, dry and comfortable,” he says. “Buying a first boat can be a difficult decision and there is no doubt that price comes into play when making a final decision. But considering that a quality boat such as our Chaparral H2O may stay in the family for 10 years or more, it is best to do your research, go for a test drive, even on rough days, and choose wisely. In that way, your investment in your family’s leisure time will be maximised.”

All Chaparrals are offered with a lifetime hull warranty and a choice of Volvo or Mercruiser power engine.

For more information on Chaparral H2O range go to chaparralboats.com or call Stefan Boating World on (07) 5665-8400.

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BOAT GUIDE ANGLER

BEACH FISHING FOR

BIG WHITING

wit h Paul Bur t

ruising the beach gutters along our coastline, you will C come across a variety of fish species recognised by most Australians. The three main species encountered all

also be light of around two, three or four kilograms.

Anything heavier and the fish will shy away.

But there’s something different about the whiting that sets it far apart from the other two. This particular species has a variety of close cousins ranging from the small diver whiting found in Moreton Bay to the common summer whiting, and then to the infamous southern King George whiting that can exceed a kilo in weight. No matter where this fish is found or caught, its taste can equal and even surpass the quality of a mangrove jack, barramundi, fingermark, coral trout or salmon. The flesh is distinctively white in colour and the texture is firm with a sweet flavour.

It doesn’t have a fishy taste or smell, thus leaving a unique taste on the palate to those who desire to eat it.

There are a variety of rigs to use when targeting whiting. Depending on where you come from around the country, nearly every state uses something different. Up here in Queensland, we tend to use the simplest and by far the best rig. The running ball sinker rig with a line trace attached to the end, consists of a small ball sinker running along your main line, a small brass barrel or black crane swivel tied to the end, then a long monofilament trace of around forty centimetres in length with a chemically sharpened size-four longshank hook tied to the end. The weight of the sinker should be changed to suit the current or sweep flowing.

The bait needs to move ever so slowly in the current, therefore using a sinker too heavy would anchor it down and one too light would keep it off the bottom.

around the country are bream, flathead and whiting. And it’s these three that have the common tag bread-andbutter fish. Sure enough all three have a distinct taste of their own and all three are fun to catch.

Catching whiting is an art and is certainly a lot of fun.

But there are a few key points that first- or secondtime anglers should take note of when targeting these delicacies of the sea.

Firstly, using the correct fishing gear is important, as you’ll need to use an outfit that is light and comfortable but not too whippy. This means a rod that is long, light and flexible on the tip but still has a bit of grunt down low towards the butt.

Most anglers in our neck of the woods prefer to use a small side cast reel known as the Alvey. It has the ability to release line to the fish when required without losing contact with your finger. You need to feel the bites therefore keeping in direct contact with the fish is important especially when surf fishing. In saying this, a Shimano spinning reel in a 2500 size is also great one to use if you are into the eggbeaters.

The bites of a whiting resemble a rattle on your line.

They are quick, and without this feel, your bait will be gone before you know it. The line class used should

18

The bait used for catching whiting is the most important part, as it is when targeting every species.

Using the local bait is best. Therefore, catching it yourself not only adds for a great day’s entertainment for the family, but also a great way to save money. If you were fishing in the river you would not use a pilchard or a slimey imported squid. You would use something found locally that the fish would naturally feed on.

Bloodworms, sand wriggler worms, yabbies, shrimps or even small soldier crabs would be the preferred baits. On the beach, the same thinking must be applied when fishing for whiting. What small creatures live in the sand of a beach gutter? Sand or beach worms and pippies or eugaries. These two baits are by far the best and can be easily caught with a bit of practice.

By now, you have enough on the gear to use and the correct baits. But knowing where the fish are schooling is something that comes with experience. There are two kinds of beach gutters found along our coastline. We have a deep beach gutter where the larger predator fish

lurk, such as mulloway, tailor, sea bream and sharks. Then we have the shallower beach gutters where the water generally does not exceed a few feet at low tide. This is where the whiting tend to school. They will wait in the run as the water breaks over the back bank and flows into the shallow water before reforming to break on the beach.

Nice clean water with a bit of white wash is a good sign to look for. The fish will camouflage themselves in this and feed on the natural food that has been washed up by the flowing and churning waters. As the tide drops, keep moving along the gutter until the tide has eventually stopped. At this point in time, the fish will generally go off the bite. Fishing the run-out tide seems to be the best, although quite a few good whiting sessions have occurred during the run-in.

If a headland is encountered along the beach, try fishing along the edge where the beach meets the rocks.

Casting out just behind the break will generally produce a few tasty whiting as well. If the water is too deep, cast out just a few feet in front of the break. Sometimes the fish will school up here as the waves wash a lot of food in from the edges of the rocks. Another area to fish is at the end of a beach gutter on the run-out tide. The fish will school up here and wait to ambush anything that gets washed out with the current.

Whiting can be caught along the beach all year round even during the cooler months from April through to August.

Cleaning a whiting is quite simple, all you have to do is fillet, skin, and then bone them. The best way to cook them is to coat them in seasoned flour. Then cook in a pan with a good knob of butter. It is the kind of fish that does not need any elaborate sauces to bring out the flavour. Enjoy and good fishing!

AUG - OCT 2016

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Discover the unique and affordable

HOPE HARBOUR MARINA Unique in its pristine and peaceful environment, Hope Harbour Marina is such a convenient location for you and your boat – by land and sea – just 10 minutes from the M1 and 20 from the seaway. Enjoy this lifestyle destination at an affordable price. Experience Hope Harbour Marina today.

280 marina berths available for sail or power boats (<30 metres) Secure and protected berths, piers, and boardwalk Convenient and secure parking with dock trolleys for your gear Swimming pool, tennis court, and BBQ area Shipyard and marine repairs Fuel wharf (open 7 days) – bait, ice, coffee, drinks and ice cream Ramada Hotel Hope Harbour Marlin Bar Restaurant

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AUG - OCT 2016

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Hope Harbour Marina

GOLD COAST’S HIDDEN GEM O

n arrival at the pristine waters of Hope Harbour Marina, the tranquility is palpable.

It’s not what you would expect from a facility with 290 premium floating berths. Without the bustling noise and commercial activity of other marinas, this quiet harbour is a safe and secure haven for you and your boat - surprisingly close to everything the Gold Coast has to offer and the most affordable commercial marina in the region.

This hidden gem, tucked away on the far eastern point of Hope Island, is just two km from the open Gold Coast Broadwater, and easily accessible off the Gold Coast’s M1 by land. Just 20 minutes from the Gold Coast Seaway, you enjoy easy access and convenience, with the marina fairways and purpose-built berths specifically designed to provide plenty of space for all kinds of boats, including multihulls and super yachts.

The peaceful and pristine environment is usually the first thing a customer comments on, says

Harbour Master Juanita Erskine. “It’s a unique quality of the marina. It is a lifestyle destination.

Hope Harbour is a marina where you can totally relax on your boat.”

The unique offering continues with all the amenities you would expect from a resort location, including access to a floodlit tennis court, BBQ area, and swimming pool during your stay here on the marina, with the added option of accommodation at the Ramada Hotel Hope Harbour.

For those familiar with the Hope Harbour of the past, you will be amazed by the change. The current offering is a product of major transformation since Tasman Marinas purchased the site two and a half years ago. A significant investment in the refurbishment of the marina structure has seen the major overhaul of four piers and the complete rebuild of two others. Hope Harbour was the first marina to utilise the innovative Bellingham composite through rods for the reconstruction.

The Ramada Hotel Hope Harbour has also undergone a major refurbishment and offers great discounts at the restaurant and bar via a VIP card available to marina customers. “The bar is a fantastic venue overlooking the marina. A great place to sit back, relax and be entertained by live music,” says Juanita.

“On top of our premium berths, and given the marina is well protected in all weather conditions, it is arguably the safest location for your boat on the coast,” affirms Juanita.

Discuss your berthing requirements with the friendly team at Hope Harbour Marina, and be sure to mention this ad in Boat Gold Coast Magazine to receive your 1-Month free berth.

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BOAT GUIDE ANGLER

My life on the

waterways

MICHAEL AIRD is an Aboriginal photographer and anthropologist. He is a descendant of Andrew Hamilton Graham and Jenny McGussy, daughter of Sarah Drumley.* He shares his personal and natural connections to the Moreton Bay and Gold Coast waterways and the islands that surround them.

ABOUT OUR WATERWAYS When looking at photographs taken over 100 years ago in urbanised areas such as the Gold Coast, the viewer often considers the huge changes to the landscape. But even within highly developed areas, there are still places that have not changed. The waterways and islands of the northern Gold Coast are such places that have been highly modified in some areas while other places have been left untouched.

I have looked at the old photo albums of my relatives and I have heard stories of life on the bay islands, such as South Stradbroke, and about life on the banks of the Broadwater and the Nerang River.

From these stories I have been fortunate to gain some understanding of what the area was like before developers modified the landscape.

Stories of people earning a living and surviving in places that in the past were not considered prime real estate. It was simply where they lived, and where they earned an income, and where they raised their families.

But to my family it was also more than that. The areas of low-lying islands in southern Moreton Bay is our traditional country - our country that our ancestors have lived in for thousands of years.

When I am out in my boat, or while I am camped on one of the bay islands, I am normally focused on mundane issues, like where I shall get firewood, where I shall place my crab pots, or where I shall drop a line. But I also often reflect upon the connection I have through my ancestors to my country. I think of how comfortable I feel in these places and how much more so my ancestors would have been.

Setting up a tent on a small island not far above the high-tide mark, sitting around a campfire or walking through a mangrove mudflat or a shallow creek at low tide are things I have done many times. But each time I do it, I always think to myself how lucky I am to be in such a place, even though many others see a low-lying mangrove island as an un-inviting environment. After spending time in these places I cannot help but love the type of landscape that many others simply overlook.

ABOUT FISHING The Gold Coast enables you to spend time in such lovely natural surroundings and still be close to the city. My favourite fishing locations are the Logan and Pimpama Rivers region.

I love saltwater, mangroves and everything about being on the water. I have a few friends I fish with and it is a great way to spend quality time with them.

Michael Aird showing off his bream catch.

22

I love going on overnight fishing trips in the colder months, and at this time of year I am always hoping to catch a good flathead.

If possible, I recommend fishing all through the night, to get the best out of the winter-spring fishing season. I fish with the same few rods I have been using for years - pretty basic equipment. My boat is small and light, so that I can get into shallow water, without fear of getting stuck somewhere.

I always carry good quality wet weather gear, so I can go out and not be fearful of rain. It is great being on the water after rain. Everything is so calm and quite. I am always happy with a few mud crabs and a few different fish - it is good to have a bit of variety.

How not to be disappointed when fishing these waters? Never go out thinking you are going to catch lots of fish!

MICHAELâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S ANCESTRY *Andrew Hamilton Graham lived on Stradbroke Island and spent his life on or near the water, as boatman, boatman pilot, water policeman, fisherman and light-keeper.

He met Jenny McGussy in 1873, and the building of the Scottish, Irish and Aboriginal family began when they had their first child in 1875. They settled on a small island on the Nerang River known as Gardinerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Island and later called Graham Island (in the area now known as Brighton Parade, Southport).

In 1896, Andrew became the pilot of the Nerang River, and was responsible for seeing that boats were taken up the river safely, and kerosene lights were lit each night to assist boats at night time. The first official reporting of the break of Jumpinpin is credited to Andrew, who was then a government official of Southport in 1898. After his death in 1919, Jenny took over his role as the pilot.

It is reported that Andrew had great knowledge of the Moreton Bay from Amity to Southport. The Brisbane and Nerang Rivers, Moreton Bay, and associated waterways played a large part in the life of Andrew and Jenny, and all their descendants.

(Source: Remembering Our Ancestors, Keeaira Press)

AUG - OCT 2016

BOAT GOLD COAST

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PARKER

BOAT GOLD COAST

COMFORT AND SPEED

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h e Parker 750 Cabin Cruiser is the first in the new line of Parker Boats. It is very much a sports cruiser design with superb sea-keeping qualities offering great performance and exceptional comfort of a recreational boat.

The new revolutionary GRP-laminated hull has been designed for high speeds, while maintaining the comfort of a smooth passage, even in severe weather conditions.

At a length of 7.46 metres with a beam of 2.50 metres, and licensed to carry seven persons, this compact overnighter is ideal for the Queensland waterways that have speed restrictions for vessels over 8 metres.

The spacious and functional interior includes four sleeping berths, including two in the separate front cabin. At the helm, the captain has uninterrupted views. The cockpit is almost entirely surrounded by glass, while the passengers are seated on an accompanying bench. The dining area allows up to six persons to sit around the table.

The boat is equipped with a separate cabin that has a sea toilet and hand wash/shower facilities, a kitchen area with a cooker, sink and refrigerator. The layout of the cabin with lots of storage space simplifies the time on board for all. The aft deck is fitted with cushioned side benches allowing lots of fun for those who like to sit out in the open air when at speed.

Other standard equipment include a front locker, sunroof hatch, curtains, seawater deck shower, two front wipers, deck light and stainless anchor roller.

Designed for a long trip, the boat is fitted with an economical Mercury outboard and has an inbuilt 230-litre fuel tank. The innovative well-shaped hull with multiple spray rails capable of speeds of 35 knots with a 150HP outboard engine, and 45 knots with a 250HP engine.

The wide range of options available for the boat makes it possible to adapt it to your requirements. These include a rear bimini, bow thruster, teak flooring, trim tabs, anchor winch, shore power, navigation pack and sound system that can all be factory-fitted on request.

Polished in every detail, the Parker 750 Cabin Cruiser is a milestone in development of the fast leisure powerboats.

Local distributor Nautilus Australia provide the highest level of after-sales support for the complete range of Parker boats. www.nautilusaustralia.com.au

phone today 0414 252 254 for the latest summer specials Visit our website and showroom to see the full range 175 Parramatta Rd Haberfield NSW 2045 ✆ 0414 252 254 ☎ (02) 8084 2747  nautilusaustralia.com.au 􏳌􏳌􏳌sales@nautilusaustralia.com.au

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What’s the difference in being

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T

here is a big difference among insurance providers for your boat. Only one has the all-risk policy that was literally born from the water up and has an agreed value. Yet another is the fact that all of the staff are boaties that truly separates Pantaenius Sail and Motor Yacht Insurance from everyone else - and just like the policy itself, this is a truly unique aspect.

Service can come in many forms. It might be knowing how a boat is built, what the components are and do, or where you want to go with your vessel. The Pantaenius crew either already know, or can delve into the absolute treasure trove that is the entire Pantaenius network to get the answer. Think about that for a second. It might be a surveyor to inspect a boat you want to buy in a different location or a marina in a different country. Or if it completely goes to custard, getting a response team to you ASAP. Just imagine what it is like to have a real boatie to deal with for any of those or other eventualities. It is the cornerstone of the marine policy that Harald Baum created over 50 years ago. Today, the Baum family continue the tradition around the globe, which is why Pantaenius is certainly Europe’s largest yacht insurance provider and the preferred choice of global cruisers.

Here in Australia, the team that knows boats is headed by marine identity, James MacPhail. Three-time Sydney-Hobart Race winner, Adam Brown, is also part of the crew, as are sailors Maike Muth, Danielle Blackmore and Chris Tilly.

It is fine to say that being different is important; but in the marine world, having the very best is essential. No one could know your boat as well as you do, but Pantaenius will ensure you know it even better, with a policy designed to reflect your needs and boating lifestyle.

Vessel surveys, rig reports and mooring surveys are part of the process of due diligence.

GER14250

www.hqhh.de 06/2016

The benefit of this is that you end up with a policy that has a true agreed value for your craft. In the event of a total loss, you will receive the number on the front, not a replacement like craft or a value that reflects the current market conditions. And here’s the big one.

There will also be no further deductions to account for salvage or other expenses.

Additionally, all-risk means just that, bar a few exclusions that fit on just the one page.

While talking about it, reading your insurance policy is also made easy, for the very nature of it does not require convoluted language, or an understanding of legalese to cover the material. A Pantaenius policy has other terrific elements too, like new for old replacement, capped depreciation and true, worldwide coverage.

So don’t just dare to be different. Make a stand for you, your nautical asset and the pleasure time you work so hard for. See the difference a true marine policy can make by calling (02) 9936 1670 or visiting www.pantaenius.com.au to find out why racers, blue water cruisers, superyachts and game fishermen all choose the different insurance policy. After all, it is easy to spot, as it is the one with water in its DNA.

BOATGOLDCOAST.COM. AU

Sydney · Phone +61-(0)2-9936 1670 pantaenius.com.au

25

BOAT GUIDE ANGLER

Gold Coast Flyfishing

By Tom Boylan, South East Qld. Fly Fishing Club

People move into saltwater flyfishing (swoffing) as it is challenging, fascinating and effective. It opens new horizons and a depth of new learnings. For some reason you will find that flyfishermen are more keen to share information and assistance than their traditional cousins. When considering an entry into saltwater flyfishing, you should first establish a sound background in bait or lure fishing. Without an understanding of fish, their habits and locations, you will find success difficult to achieve.

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AUG - OCT 2016

BOAT ANGLER

Any introduction to flyfishing should start at the beginning. The earliest historical reference was by Claudius Aelianus in 200 AD. Aelianus found fishermen in Macedonia employing a strange method of taking fish. It was noticed that flies would, when laying their eggs on the river surface frequently be taken by fish. However, when fishermen used dead flies as bait they were ignored. Tying artificials on bronze hooks crafted from red wool and wings made of feathers from a local bird, they produced a close imitation. This was tied to a length of plaited horse hair attached to the end of a slender cane and cast across the water. Lifting and representing in the manner of a natural fly proved successful.

The next big step was the publishing of Izaak Walton’s classic, The Complete Angler, in 1653. It dealt largely with fishing lore, philosophy, ethics and adventures, aspects of the sport that remain largely unchanged today. The past 400 years have seen it re-edited and reprinted 167 times and it is still available.

The next breakthrough occurred when American anglers faced with huge rivers developed more robust rods and lines. In the early 20th century pioneers discovered that this new tackle was suitable for flyfishing in salt water.

Over the past century, vast changes have developed in technique and equipment. Let’s start with tackle.

Lines are the most important ingredient as it is they that deliver the fly. Lines must be of high standard and reliable. They come in a variety of styles, sizes and weights with #2 being the lightest in common use and can be great fun on sand flats, chasing mullet or whiting. #17 is at the other end of the scale and used for large tuna, marlin, sharks, etc. Lines are also available in a variety of “shapes” - level, double taper, weightforward and shooting head. They are made to taper much as a bullock driver’s whip allowing it, when cast, to roll forward. There are also types of function. Floating would be used on shallow flats, intermediate for tuna, mulloway, trevally, tailor and mackerel. The sinking line is for the bottom dwellers, flathead, bream, etc., or for deep reefs and structures.

For our purposes on the Gold Coast, a weight forward intermediate line #6 or#7 will cover most applications. Expect to pay $60 to $80. To the front of the line is attached a “leader”. This can be a manufactured tapered leader or a 2.5 m length of 10 to 15 kg. Monofilament or fluorocarbon. To this is attached a “tippet”, a 1m length of lighter 3 to 5 kg monofilament or fluorocarbon (do not mix). Finally add the fly. This system extends the taper of the line allowing turn over and a smooth delivery.

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Fly rods are the next consideration and these carry the same denomination as lines #2, #3 etc., and generally matched to the line.

However, many will use a line one size up to give an improved “feel” when casting. There is a wide variety of styles and qualities costing between $200 and as much as $1800 with a choice of slow, medium and fast actions.

For our purposes on the Gold Coast, a midcost of around $300 with a medium action will generally ser ve as a star t-up outfit. But do not buy a rod without first casting it to ensure it suits.

through the length of the rod a couple of times to ensure penetration of the hook. During the fight, do not lift the rod above 45 degrees, applying pressure through this stronger butt section. The tip has little strength and if held high a sudden lunge could leave you with a broken rod. This applies whether you are retrieving through the hands or onto the reel. Always crush the barb of the hook to allow an easy release.

The fly reels merely store line. When fishing the line is normally retrieved through the hands and dropped at your feet ready for your next cast, fish are played and landed in the same way. A reel around $80 will handle this adequately.

Larger active fish will quickly take line and it is then that the reel starts to perform its other function via the drag, demanding reliable, sophisticated manufacture. This is where the dollar value is determined. If you choose to seek fast aggressive sportfish then you will need to buy a quality reel with a price of $300 upwards.

Getting started will require advice and assistance. Firstly contact the SEQ Flyfishers and attend one of our casting or fly tying sessions to determine its appeal to you. There you will find people willing to help with the selection of tackle, flycasting and tying lessons with practical fishing advice.

The attractor is called a “fly”, simply a transfer from trout fishing nomenclature where the principal diet consists of aquatic insects which are copied in the creation of a fly. Saltwater flys imitate baitfish, squid, crabs, prawns and other marine creatures. All of the flys used, of course, have names, and there is a wide variety.

You can start with the two most popular, the surf candy or streamer, and the clouser. The streamer and candy imitate baitfish, made from natural or synthetic (mylar) materials or a combination of both. The materials are tapered and tied on the top of the hook with stick on eyes attached. A coating of epoxy glue around the head keeps everything in place. Surf candies are fully coated with clear epoxy to the end of the hook allowing the remaining length of material loose to act as the tail. Size is generally around 30mm to 60mm.

Clousers are constructed from natural and synthetic material tied under the hook with weighted dumbbell eyes tied on top. This causes the fly to swim upside down avoiding snagging in weed, etc. on the bottom. The clouser is normally 70 to 120 mm long.

The fly is cast to the selected area, allowed to sink, if required, and with the rod tip pointed down to the water’s surface stripped back through the hands with both long and short strips at varying speeds to imitate a fleeing or injured quarry. When a fish grabs your fly, you should leave the rod pointed at the water and strike

The tying of flys is another aspect of our sport and an attraction in its own right. An interesting, creative hobby that will fill those times when winter’s bitter wind bites or storms flog our coast.

The Gold Coast boasts a massive waterways network from Jumpinpin to Nerang and all of the canals and lakes in between. They carry a large fish population of many species. Here both northern and southern species overlap and offer a wide variety of targets to the flyfisherman.

There are a number of land-based opportunities.

Sand flats appear in various locations from Labrador to the Sundale Bridge, and offer opportunities for wading while seeking flathead, bream, whiting, mullet and garfish. When wading, a stripping basket to hold the retrieved line off the water is a great advantage.

Our manmade lakes carry some exciting opportunities for the land-based angler, best fished near the lake’s entrance and when there is a strong flooding tide. This new water carries oxygen, nutrients and bait species. You will find that fish gather at such times near these entrances and can provide excellent sport.

Species such as trevally, giant herring and tarpon are among those that can be regularly taken on fly.

Boat fishermen have, of course, a much greater variety of options, from the offshore reefs and structures to all the sea walls, islands and flats.

The Seaway and Broadwater enjoy the frequent visits of schools of tuna, kingfish, giant trevally and tailor, sometimes in visual large numbers.

These matters are always the subject of discussion at our club meetings through guest speakers or our member’s recent experiences.

Visitors are always welcome. Regular monthly fishing outings are also arranged. seqflyfishers.asn.au 27

BOAT ANGLER

GET YOUR MATES TOGETHER to enter GREAT NORTHERN BREWING CO. GOLD COAST FLATHEAD CLASSIC

A

feature on many local fishing calendars is the Gold Coast Flathead Classic, which welcomes all levels of anglers. The Great Northern Brewing Co. Gold Coast Flathead Classic, now an iconic event on the fishing tournament calendar, had its humble beginnings in 1994.

The event is organised by the Gold Coast Sportfishing Club and is a catch-and-release tournament using lure and fly only. A team event with two or three anglers per boat, the anglers measure and photograph each fish, and then release. The team records the measurements on a catch sheet. The amount of points is determined by the size of each catch.

The Gold Coast offers some of the best flathead habitats in Australia, from the Nerang River to up north at Jumpinpin. The competing anglers can find flathead in canals, rivers, creeks and the Broadwater, making this tournament highly competitive, with everyone aiming for a prized victory. The competition is a very social event with three days of fishing, enhanced by evening activities and dinners. Sponsors provide category trophies for teams with the biggest over-all catch, as well as “lucky draw” prizes, attracting sportfishers from around the country.

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Historically, the results have provided valuable flathead catch and growth-rate data used for long-term management of the species in Queensland. More than 5,700 flathead were caught and released last year during the event.

Each year, the competition goes from strength to strength with numbers in 2015 having the most anglers ever in the history of the competition - a total of 551 fisher people.

ENTRY FEES

All up, this tournament is much more than a fishing competition. It is now a feature event with an excellent random prize pool, giveaways, entertainment and much more.

JUNIORS: $140.00 until August 16; $155.00 Late entry places permitting and no guarantee of shirt.

2016 DATES: 28th September – 1st October Sign-On, Briefing & Dinner: Wednesday 28th September 2016 from 4.00pm Fishing & Dinner: Thursday 29th September 2016 and Friday 30th September 2016 Fishing, Dinner & Presentations: Saturday 1st October 2016 TOURNAMENT VENUE Fishing Clubhouse, Mitchell Park, Broadwater Parklands Northern Precinct, corner of Marine Parade and North St, Southport.

SENIORS: $275.00 until August 16; $300.00 Late entry places permitting and no guarantee of shirt.

There is a 200-team* cut-off for the number of competitors this year. So don’t delay in sending your entries ASAP. (*Total number excludes event-sponsored teams.) Teams must have the same member composition during the whole duration of the competition, i.e. no substitutions, except for Juniors.

Entry Fee Includes: • Meals as scheduled above (extra meals available, please enquire) • Commemorative 23rd Anniversary Event Shirt for every competitor • Team Bag containing lures and other goodies courtesy of sponsors • Tournament Handbook for every competitor • Opportunity to share in $250,000+ worth of prizes Register online at www.goldcoastsportfishingclub.com.au.

AUG - OCT 2016

BOAT GOLD COAST

ANCHORLINE BROKERAGE SELECTION

Caribbean 40

Kong & Halvorsen 44

$275, 000

Exceptional condition & priced to sell. Twin 3126 Caterpillars, Onan Genset, Raymarine electronics. Double & two single berths. Electric galley. Leather upholstery. Flybridge clears in excellent condition.

Southern Cross 53

3 Cabin Europa style motor cruiser. Twin Caterpillars. Big volume with a one level saloon, galley and aft deck, a double master stateroom with en-suite, four berth and a two berth guests cabins and an enormous flybridge (with access to the fore-deck).

Fred Fleming 50

$399, 000

Big volume motor cruiser in excellent condition. Extensively upgraded including rebuilt engines, new generator, exterior two pack painting, new electronics, bow and stern thrusters. Three cabin layout Inspection highly recommended. Price reduced. Great Value.

$250, 000

$495, 000

Extensively refurbished and upgraded including the installation of a new John Deere main engine, Kohler generator, Naiad stabilizers, paravane stabilizers, electric davits, rigging and masts. Raymarine electronics, new aft cabin en-suite, saloon refurbishment and re-wiring.

Offshore 54

$720, 000

Maintained in exceptional condition from new. Very well equipped, beautifully furnished and has been continually upgraded by her fastidious owner. Perfect for a cruising couple or spending time with family and friends out on the bay. Must be inspected to be appreciated.

Island Gypsy 72

$895, 000

Built by Kong & Halvorsen Marine. Meticulously maintained and extensively refitted. Presents in remarkable condition and has an excellent layout which provides plenty of space for entertaining, cruising with family and friends or the option of traveling with crew.

www.anchorline.com.au | P 07 5580 3377 | E info@anchorline.com.au C19, Gold Coast City Marina, 76 - 84 Waterway Drive, Coomera, Queensland, 4209

COMMUNITY: About Queensland Recreational Boating Council T

he Queensland Recreational Boating Council Inc. (QRBC) was formed in 1969. Since then the Council has delivered over forty five years of uninterrupted service for boaties. It is the peak recreational boating organisation for Queensland with representatives from clubs, government and associated agencies meeting monthly.

The Council held its inaugural meeting in 1969. The meeting took place at The Royal Queensland Yacht Squadron Headquarters and the agenda items included the dredging of the One Mile, netting in Horseshoe Bay, buoys and beacons in Moreton Bay, moorings at the One Mile, ammunition dumping, Wynnum Creek dredging, pollution of waterways, Cleveland jetty and congestion on Waterloo Bay. The foundation clubs were: Queensland Yachting Association (QYA), Royal Queensland Yacht Squadron (RQYS), Little Ship Club (LSC), Queensland Cruising Yacht Club (QCYC), South Queensland Power Boat Club (SQPBC) and Queensland Professional Fishermen’s League (QPFL).

It was resolved that an invitation be extended to northern clubs to join as representatives and a short time after there was acceptance from Hervey Bay Boat Club and a Townsville club.

In 1975, the Council submitted to the Marine Board of Queensland an extensive proposal on licensing requirements for motor boat/motor vessel operators.

The proposal included: test on competency, an oral

BOATGOLDCOAST.COM. AU

test to demonstrate a sound knowledge of collision regulations, elementary fire-fighting knowledge, reading compass and charts, and basic knowledge of navigation. It was requested that tests be conducted

by Boating Patrol officers, shipping inspectors or a person appropriately trained and nominated by an approved Club or Organisation.

Over the years the Council has continued to have input into the various legislative, infrastructure, navigation and safety requirements of the recreational boating community. Membership has grown substantially and representation of the recreational boating public has remained current with the inclusion of Jet Skis and other recreational vessels.

All of the relevant government departments have high level delegates in attendance at the meetings. This allows for what can sometimes be lively debate and consultation to move forward on significant issues. Information can be quickly communicated to the Club delegates and members, and in turn feedback is quickly communicated back to the authorities.

Membership of QRBC is restricted by invitation from the Council, to boating clubs and government departments. Membership is not open to individuals.

Each member organisation appoints a high level representative who attends the monthly meetings to be consulted on current issues as well as tabling new issues from their own club members.

The meetings usually take place at Manly with some variation to accommodate new facility excursions. With modern day technology, the Council has also begun implementing the facility for regional representatives to join the meetings live.

If any club or organisation is interested in becoming involved, please feel welcome to contact the Vice Chairman, Mandy Brown at 0449 077 747 or mandy@qrbc.org.au.

QRBC Charter: • To act as representative spokesman of member organisations in communications and other dealings with Government and Government departments, industry and the public generally on all aspects of recreational boating activities.

• To encourage and promote safety, the practice of good seamanship and courtesy at sea amongst recreational boating owners and those with whom they share the use of the waterways.

• To ensure that the rights and privileges of recreational boating owners and operators are preserved within the context of social and regulatory pressures upon the marine environment and marine facilities.

• To provide a source of informed opinion on matters pertaining to recreational boating and to act as an expert advisory body on such matters as may be required from time to time.

29

BOAT GUIDE ANGLER

The Mystery

of the Surf Boat

By Andy Kancachian

Ph oto s co urt esy of De nis O’C on ne ll. De nis an d his so n Gr eg

“Sometime between the late 1960’s and early 1970’s, an old wooden boat washed up on the ocean beach shores of South Stradbroke Island. The boat was found by one of the members of the Hage family, a pioneering Southport fishing family.” So the story goes, according to Denis O’Connell who recalls the mysterious urban legend.

Denis further says that Brian Hage passed the boat on to fisherman Jeff Medland who eventually gave the boat to Denis and his son, Greg, another of the Gold Coast pioneering fishing families.

Denis, a former mayor of the Gold Coast, is the steward of Gold Coast’s most intriguing pieces of local nautical history. The “mystery” boat is one of them. He describes the coincidental arrival of the boat to the small fishing community as being “handy”.

The mystery boat, dubbed as “surf boat” was believed to have been built during 1930-40’s by a craftsman from the NSW Northern Rivers region.

The boat builder must have had an advanced understanding of surf boat building, as the boat did not easily broach in the surf when catching a wave.

The boat was only 12 feet long.

While reminiscing, Denis says, “The unique hull design was ideally suited for surf conditions, as well as calm waters such as the Broadwater. So the boat was put to good use as a net boat. It was fitted with two sets of oars: one person standing to row with nine-foot oars while facing the bow, and another person rowing with eight-foot oars sat facing the stern.”

The surf boat was mainly used for mullet fishing.

Back in those days, the local fishing families, such as the Dux, Wild, Hallindale, Kings, Isgro, McNalie and Tuesley families, to name a few, were known as the “Southport crew”. Traditionally, they fished for sea mullet in the winter months. From April to August, the mullet leave the rivers and canals of the Gold Coast and make their way out to the ocean beaches to spawn, joining the sea mullet travelling from the south up the east coast.

Denis describes how the surf boat was maneuvered to catch the mullet. “Guided by the standing oarsman and loaded with approximately 180 metres of fishing nets, the boat would head out through the surf, travelling in an arc around the school and back to shore. Laying the net around the school of fish, referred to as ‘shooting the net’, was done by both 30

oarsmen rowing in unison. As the boat caught each set of waves, the seated front oarsman would take command to safely return to shore.”

Denis says that if executed successfully, the two brave occupants will prevent the boat from swamping or capsizing, and the mighty hauls would be “landed up” on the beach.

An in-depth understanding of the movements and habits of the spawning mullet meant that the fisherman could predict when the mullet would leave the rivers and run towards the ocean beaches, by observing the weather conditions. The crews would launch at the command of a man on the beach, “the spotter”, who would confirm when the fish were on the way. “In those days, you needed a lot of skill with the oars,” relates Denis.

) m ar ke t (197 0s h fo r th e fis h e m ul le t ca tc th g in ar ep Pr

Over the years, this small surf boat that mysteriously washed up on the shores of South Stradbroke was used to catch mega-tonnes of fish and became an important part of local fishing history. Proving details of the fishing procedures in the Gold Coast at this time, Denis recalls, “These large hauls of fish were transported back to the mainland and delivered to the Fish Board in Southport and were sold at auction, along with the prawns caught by local trawlers.”

When not used to capture the sea mullet along the ocean beaches due to poor weather conditions, the boat was used in a similar way inside the Broadwater, as schools of mullet would sometimes travel inshore, along the western shores of South Stradbroke.

Denis and Greg owned a similar slightly larger 16-foot net boat which was used for fishing in the Broadwater. With both boats working, they were capable of hauling tonnes of fish for the Southport fishing crew from 1973 to the 2000’s.

The original “surf boat” was eventually donated by the O’Connell’s to the Gold Coast and Hinterland Historical Museum at 8 Elliott St, Surfers Paradise and is open to the public Sundays, 10am-3pm.

Denis O’Connell was mayor of the Gold Coast City Council from 1982 to 1985, and was a councilor for nine years.

Along with his many life achievements and contributions to the local community, he is also acknowledged as a life member of the Queensland Seafood Industry Association (QSIA), and has previously sat on the Gold Coast Harbour Board, the Gold Coast Waterways Authority and the Great Barrier Tourist Committee.

To wi ng th e su rf bo at s ou t int o th e se a (19 70 s)

s) on the be ac h (19 70 To nn es of mu llet

AUG - OCT 2016

BOAT GOLD COAST

THE ULTIMATE PLYWOOD ALTERNATIVE T

h ermo-Lite Australia has teamed up with Pacific Paint and Fibreglass on the Gold Coast to stock this amazing alternative.

“Thermo-Lite Board® is the smart alternative to plywood and will revolutionise the boat-building industry and other industries where plywood would normally be their first choice. This alternative has the characteristics that everyone has been waiting for - strong, light-weight and rot-free, offering lifetime performance,” says James Keay of Pacific Paint and Fibreglass.

“Thermo-Lite Board® is a unique product, and a great option for so many applications. Whether you’re a manufacturer or a DIY enthusiast looking for the ultimate solution to repair, refurbish, or upgrade the boat, caravan, motor home, horse float, esky, or any other out-thebox projects you might be working on, Thermo-Lite Board® offers many great advantages.”

Check out the product range and data sheet pages for technical information on the Thermo-Lite website at www.thermo-lite.com.au, or feel free to call or email your local dealer with any questions or discuss what advantages Thermo-Lite Board® can offer your application.

Be sure to check out and follow Thermo-Lite Board on Facebook to keep up to date with new products, applications and plenty of photos and info to assist with your next project.

Pacific Paint and Fibreglass is the distributor of Therma-Lite Boards® on Queensland’s Gold Coast, and offers a full range of fibreglass and paint products with great service and plenty of knowledge to assist with all your enquiries.

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First

LPG GAS

Powered Outboards

Why?

LEHR: DEDICATED TO A CLEANER PLANET

LEHR Australia is proud to introduce to Australia the LPG outboard and is building a network of servicing dealers throughout Australia and Oceania.

What is Propane?

 Powerful

Propane is the gas you use for your BBQ or camping. It is available in steel bottles of many sizes, and now also in composite bottles. You can also use the disposable bottles for camping in the smaller outboards (2.5HP and 5HP).

4-stroke engines - 110 Octane Fuel

 Eco Friendly

Propane’s environmental credentials

Propane is not a marine pollutant

 Easy start

No Choke - No Priming

 Economical

More cost-effective to use & Maintain Available Outboard Engines 2.5HP | 5HP | 9.9HP | 15HP

Propane contains only 3 carbon molecules while petrol contains 8 carbon molecules. As a result, propane produces very low carbon emissions. LEHR propane engines typically reduce carbon emissions by 65-70%. Propane is the cleaner and greener alternative fuel. It is the most reliable fuel, and it does not degrade over time like petrol. It stores indefinitely and has no ethanol problems. LPG has an octane rating of 110, so it is a very powerful fuel. It also has no evaporative emissions.

LEHR have 2.5HP, 5HP, 9.9HP and 15HP models available in both long and short shafts, and some with electric start and forward controls.

So why LEHR Outboards?

1) Powerful 4-stroke engines

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2) Easy start - no choke (LPG does not degrade overtime like petrol; no ethanol issues) 3) Economical - 30-40% cheaper to run 4) 3-year limited warranty 5) Award-winning technology

31

BOAT GUIDE

DIY SERVICING FOR JET SKIS id you know maritime law states a vessel D must be maintained as seaworthy at all times? To keep your vessel seaworthy all the

time, you have to keep it well serviced. Doing this is one of the best ways to prolong the life of your jet ski. Regular oil changes (to minimise engine wear), regular greasing around bearings (to prevent expensive repairs), and checking the many bolts, clamps, sensors and ECU are all safety “must do’s”.

You will need around four to five hours for a complete service, plus another hour for the trailer.

Do keep records of the service and compression results, etc., and consider taking photos of certain parts for future reference.

Ideally, begin the service after a good ride as the ski will be warmed up. This will allow for the extraction of a maximum amount of contaminants from the motor, as they remain suspended in the hot oil for a couple of hours before they settle to the bottom. The more you can remove the better.

WASHING

It is great to have a really clean ski as this will prevent any salt, sand or other foreign material getting access where it should not.

Secure the trailer wheels from rolling and place it up on a crate or something similar to give a good angle for water to run out of the bung holes. Wash the hull out from front to back taking care not to induce water into the air intake and electrical components. While washing the hull, check the siphon bilge under the coupler (if your ski has it) and ensure it is free from debris, such as sand or seaweed. You may also remove electric bilges for cleaning. The bilge pump may be the difference between getting back to shore or sinking, should water ingress. Check down the back of the hull for any stray bolts, clamps, washers, etc. This will indicate that something requires attention and removal will prevent damage from them ending up in the wrong place.

FLUSHING

Level the ski again to flush and to rewarm/mix the old oil. Always flush ski in a level position. Cooling is compromised when flushing on a hose and if water does not make its way around the head, etc., the heat can be damaging. Limit your time flushing to avoid damaging carbone seals. (Carbone seals help prevent water entry.)

Place your ski on a service trolley to begin the work.

If you don’t have a service trolley, a trailer should be fine. Just place some buckets over the trailer lights and front to avoid injury to your shins!

CHANGING OIL

Immediately begin siphoning the old oil out of the engine using an oil siphon pump. (The same pump 32

doubles as a water remover from the hull too.) Using a trolley jack, place the ski on an angle to ensure you have extracted the maximum amount of oil possible.

When the old oil has been completely extracted, replace the oil filter using either an OEM filter or a jet ski specific brand of after-market filter. Take note of the amount of oil extracted and add around 200ml for the loss from the old oil filter, to reach the correct oil level.

QUICK TIP: Always use a high quality marine grade oil that meets or exceeds the standards required by the manufacturer. You can also add an oil water proofer to your oil, which will minimise wear on your engine should water ever gain access, preventing the need for a rebuild. This also helps in the maintenance of supercharged and turbo skis, as it prevents “dry starting” too.

SPARK PLUGS

The next step is to remove the spark plugs. Place them on a sheet of paper and record the compression test results under each one. Do two tests for accuracy and always remove power from the injectors to prevent a false read. If the compression is not within specification, the ski will require further diagnosis.

Do not continue to operate it as it could worsen and become a much more serious problem.

If the compression test yields good results, replace the plugs according to the ski manufacturer’s recommendations, taking care to check the gap and always use a good anti-seize. Torque should be applied according to the manual.

QUICK TIP: Ensure the plugs are neither too loose nor too tight. If the plugs are too loose, the ski will run badly and there is a safety risk to the rider. If they are too tight, you risk stripping the thread.

Place some grease around the neck of the coils to prevent water intrusion.

Trailer check

Make sure you give your trailer an onceover too. Check the bearings for torque and water ingress. Put some oil on the jockey wheel and winch.

Ensure the following: • The strap is in good order.

• The tie-downs are strong.

• All rollers spin freely and that the skids are not damaging the hull.

• The underside is free from major rust.

• The springs are intact.

• The brakes are in good order with plenty of wear.

By Mandy Brown, Jet Ski Club

OTHER CHECKS

Starting at the front, go through the firewall to inspect all of the wiring, mechanical parts and fuel tank retention. Ensure the fuel breather is operating correctly. Check the inside of the hull for integrity and corrosion. Make your way through the rest of the hull toward the back. Grease the steering and any other bearings such as the intermediate.

• Make sure that all hoses are in great condition and secure, the clamps are serviceable, and the wiring in good order.

• Thoroughly inspect the reverse or braking systems.

Ensure they are greased and tested.

• Adjust the throttle cables and steering to guarantee correct idle speed and true steering.

• Make sure the engine mounts are all intact and in good order.

• Replace the air filter, if required.

• Remove the intercoolers for cleaning. Clean the injectors on skis that have done more than 200 hours or are more than five years old. Inspect the fuel filter for blockage and clean out the tank, if required. For supercharged skis, refer to the workshop manual for maintenance, as they have varying requirements.

• Check the battery for voltage and make sure its electrolytes are topped up. Secure it well. If you have a coolant tank, remove the coolant and replace if it is due or simply ensure the correct level.

• Remove and inspect the pump and impeller of the ski. This is a good opportunity to also inspect the ride plate and intake grate for safety. Once the pump is out, spin it around to check if the bearings are running smoothly. Note if the bearings are not in good condition, replace them immediately to avoid serious engine damage. Remove the cone to inspect for water ingress. If water is present, replace the grease and seals.

• Go over the entire outside of the hull making sure there are no exposed areas, fractures or holes.

• Ensure your seat is clipping down securely and the bonnet secures well.

• Finally, run the ski up on the hose and allow it to settle for a few minutes to ensure the oil level is within specification.

• Some skis require the service schedule to be cleared using the engine management software. This will also alert you to any problems being encountered.

IMPORTANT NOTE: The above tips do not replace professional servicing and only serve as a guide. Jet skis are all different in many ways and need specialised attention to certain matters.

Always refer to the owner’s manual for specific instructions that pertain to your ski make and model. Be aware that you may void your warranty if conditions are not met.

AUG - OCT 2016

BOAT SERVICE DIRECTORY

East Coast

Batteries We come to you - roadside service

EXCELLENT TRAINING

BY MASTER CLASS 4 & 5 QUALIFIED INSTRUCTORS Car - Motorbike - Marine

Ph: 07 5597 2795 BOOK ONLINE AT GOLDCOASTMARINETRAINING.COM.AU OFFICE LEVEL 2, SUITE 15 - UPSTAIRS RUNAWAY BAY MARINA

www.eastcoastbatteries.com.au

• Extensions • 2 Pac Spraying & Brushing • Construction • Restorations • Antifouling Coatings • Modifications • Maintenance • Varnish Work • Fit-outs • Bow/Stern Thrusters

BOATGOLDCOAST.COM. AU

33

BOAT GOLD COAST

AUSTRALIA’S Leading

Boat Lift Manufacturer opens new Burleigh office T

h e team at Custom Floats have been making boat lifts since 2002 and have installed over 3,000 float systems Australia-wide. Due to a demand in location sales and enquiries, they have now opened a sales office in Burleigh to service the Gold Coast and Southeast Queensland.

How easy is it to operate Custom Floats?

It’s very easy. There are no complex ropes or pulley systems to complicate lifting and lowering your float. It requires a simple one-handed operation. Once valves are opened and exhausts lowered, the float will submerge at the stern. If you remove ropes from your rear cleats, your boat will simply glide from the float onto the water.

On your return, it’s just a matter of aligning the nose of your boat with the float. The buoyancy arms will act as guides allowing the boat to self-centre, and glide effortlessly onto the float. Once your boat is in position, with ropes attached to the rear cleats of your boat, simply close the valve on the pump box and connect the power, and your float will lift and your boat will sit comfortably high and dry.

That sounds simple? It is! In five minutes, your boat is either free of the float or lifted onto the float.

34

How durable are your floats?

Custom Floats boat lifts are manufactured from Australian manufactured high-density polyethylene. The design of the floats is such that there are no moving parts that could be susceptible to corrosion. In fact, our original-design floats that are now 14 years old are still working perfectly, from a resale value point of view, this obviously helps customers selling their floats when they no longer have a use for them.

What makes your designs unique?

Apart from its strength and ease of operation, a standout feature of Custom Floats is the ability to install aluminium walkways to either side of the float, as well as the back, which enables the owner access around the entire boat for maintenance and servicing. So popular is the design, they are the preferred boat lift s for several government and non-government agencies, including Water Police and DPI divisions, and Volunteer Coast Authorities.

Custom Floats are not just limited to high-end boat users.

By reducing the need for antifouling and avoiding the costs of engine maintenance of wet-berthed boats, the Custom Floats system is cost saving and affordable to

most boat owners wanting permanent water moorings for their craft. A Custom Floats lift is ideal for a wide range of boats, from small tenders to 40 feet vessels, with a special model available to lift jet ski’s, small boats and tenders.

Custom Floats technology is primarily used to raise boat hulls, but the unique floating devices are also installed as helipads, fish farms, mining industry solutions, on-water offices, floating restaurants and holiday home platforms.

The product is unique in that there is no other company in Australia designing and manufacturing this type of marine lifting system. By manufacturing in Australia, Custom Floats maintain the highest quality control. All floats are covered by a five-year product warranty, with a one-year warranty on accessories such as pumps and hoses.

The retail price for a base model with 2300kg-capacity start at $12,000 + GST (ex-factory). The large capacity systems are able to lift boats up to 9,000 kg (wet weight) and 13 metres in length. However, the company will undertake projects to build lifts for heavier and longer vessels, if their engineers deem it possible.

Watch this space as Custom Floats team are currently developing a solution that they say will have the potential to revolutionise the luxury-end of vessel hull protection.

AUG - OCT 2016

BOAT SOCIAL

SHAGGERS AT PLAY

‘SEASON OF SAIL’ BEGINS IN 2016

T

he cooling months of the year is when the grey and not so grey nomads of the water sail into the beautiful Whitsundays for the annual Shag Islet Cruising Yacht Club (SICYC) Rendezvous at the diminutive Shag Islet in the Gloucester Passage. But this year there is a twist! SICYC has turned the event into a ‘Season of Sail’ to provide further fun for yachties (aka the SICYC “Vice Commodores” or “Shaggers”) cruising up the Queensland coast to the Rendezvous in August. So what’s in this “Season of Sail” for the Shaggers?

members. Bundaberg Port Marina and tenants offered various discounts and berth packages, while Mackay Marina offered a berth discount. Abell Point Marina, host of the annual Rendezvous, and selected tenants offered discounts including berth discounts of 15 percent off the weekly rate, with courtesy cars made available.

By keeping their VHF on a dual watch 16/72, members can transmit on Ch.72 asking if there are any Shaggers in the anchorage and arrange to meet with them - a great way to meet up on the way up the coast.

The premier social event of the season, the Prostate Cancer Gala Ball was held on 16 July. It was an evening of elegance with a twist, all for a great cause—to support the Prostate Cancer Foundation of Australia (PCFA). Special guests for the evening were distinguished professor, Judith Clements AC, the mayor of the Whitsundays, Cr Andrew Wilcox (the Vice Commodore of Horseshoe Bay Bowen), and Matt Hayden, an ardent supporter of the PCFA. Paul Darouzett, owner of the Abell Point Marina, and Cr Wilcox, personally welcomed all the guests. The Lure, a new events facility at Abell Point Marina, was the venue of the “Sea Princess” and “Black Tie and Board Shorts” Gala Ball for the members, SICYC sponsors and friends, and early bird cruisers.

This year, several marinas welcomed the members during the Season of Sail on the way north from Brisbane.

Hervey Bay Boat Club offered a short term berth discount and a “Meet and Greet” every Friday evening for the

The SICYC Season of Sail continued with the SICYC “Family and Friends BBQ” on 29 July at the North Village of Abell Point Marina. Paul Darouzett, again welcomed all Shaggers.

It is about enjoying the company of fellow cruisers while travelling to the annual Rendezvous, as early as April.

Members enjoy the benefits of a fantastic fraternity on the water while being hosted by various marinas and be invited to a feast of events on the way as part of the Season of Sail.

“Welcome to Airlie Beach” is an annual event at which the Whitsunday Sailing Club (WSC) formally welcomes all Vice Commodores. The welcome event hosted by the Commodore of WSC will be held on Friday 5 August 2016. Special entertainment will be provided and meals will be available at reasonable rates. Honorary temporary membership of the WSC will be granted to all Vice Commodores present.

The “Great Whitsunday Fun Race” (GWFR), jointly sponsored for the first time by SICYC and WSC will be held on 20 August 2016. Fifty percent of race proceeds will go to PCFA. The big event, the “SICYC Rendezvous 2016” will be held in the vicinity of Shag Islet from 25 to 28 August.

Early bird activities will commence on 23 August at both Cape Gloucester and Montes Reef Resort. This year’s Rendezvous theme is Parrot Head. With over 240 yachts and some 1,000 people expected to attend the Rendezvous this year, there will be fun and good times for everyone.

For more event details and membership information, visit www.sicyc.com.au.

Experience the blue carpet treatment.

Set sail for something special at Abell Point.

Whether you’ve spent the day sailing around the Whitsundays or weeks on the open sea, once you’ve berthed at Abell Point Marina, you’ll be looked after like a VIB (Very Important Boatie). It begins with our dockhand concierge guiding you into your berth.

Then discover our new marina village filled with state-of-the-art facilities. Borrow our private car or book a helicopter service.

Discover Airlie Beach’s hidden gems including spas, bars and tennis courts with our Marina Lifestyle Card. Feeling hungry?

You’ll find a restaurant to suit your taste whether it’s an organic smoothie at sunrise or a local seafood platter for two at sunset.

It’s all there waiting for you.

Experience the ‘blue carpet’ treatment.

FIND OUT MORE AT ABELLPOINTMARINA .COM. AU BOATGOLDCOAST.COM. AU

35

BOAT GOLD COAST

BUILD THE BOAT OF YOUR DREAMS CRUISECAT

T

he Cruisecat 35 is a classy boat with high hulls and high tunnel clearance, fitted with twin 200hp Suzuki engines, has generated a lot of interest in the multihull powercat market, according to James Keay, owner and designer of the Cruisecat.

At the recent Gold Coast International Marine Expo, Pacific Blue Cruisecat displayed the Cruisecat 35ft and a 40ft Weekender. “The Cruisecat 35 was the highlight and turned some heads,” exclaims James. “Pacific Blue Cruisecat has displayed the Cruisecat at a few boat shows on the east coast of Australia over the years but we believe that the Marine Expo was the best boat show we have attended, with positive feedback from both customers and exhibitors.”

The Cruisecat would have to be one of the most comfortable and spacious multihulls on the market. Cruisecat’s are built to survey standards with quality Australian fibreglass and paint products. With its high tunnel clearance and incredible stability, you are guaranteed a soft dry ride in some of the worst conditions. Large fuel and water capacity make long range cruising or having a group of friends stay on board a breeze. This is the boat that caters for both his and her requirements where it provides the design features, performance and space that allows you to always enjoy being out on the water.

The Cruisecat can be built from 30ft to 48ft, with the 55ft just around the corner. This powercat has been built to allow for diversity where you can design your Cruisecat with higher hulls and modify design layout to suit the buyer’s requirements. “The Cruisecat is a stylish boat sure to impress the most discerning multihull buyer. These vessels are Australian-made and hand-built right here on the Gold Coast at The Boat Works, Coomera,” says James.

James understands that flexibility is the key, “The Cruisecat design provides the platform for you to custom build the boat of your dreams. We cater for the private sector, commercial surveys for bareboat charters, work boats and passenger ferries. The versatility of the Cruisecat is what makes it really stand out in its class.”

Pacific Blue Cruisecat also caters for clients looking for the perfect houseboat with offshore capabilities, built to any stage, hulls only, kit-form or to lock-up.

If you are looking for a strong Australian-built multihull then look no further.

Give James or Joshua a call to discuss your requirements and create the boat of your dreams. Ph: James - 0432 192 014 or Joshua - 0401 344 625 E: info@cruisecat.net W: www.cruisecat.net

12-MONTH ANTIFOUL WARRANTY: A BIG WIN FOR BOAT OWNERS

P

acific Paint & Fibreglass have joined with PPG Protective & Marine Coatings (PPG), the world’s leading coatings supplier, and Complete Antifoul Systems (CAS), a Gold Coast coatings application company, to bring a world’s first to the pleasure boat industry - a 12-month antifouling warranty.

James Keay, owner of Pacific Paint & Fibreglass says, “As a business, we were looking for a point of difference in the market place, and as we are a distributor for PPG, we suggested the 12-month antifouling warranty. PPG agreed, but they required a reputable, professional applicator to ensure the integrity of the offer to the boat owners. CAS was the obvious choice.”

This is a new approach from the industry. It takes the job of applying antifouling to a new level and gives owners much better value for money.

“This is something boat owners have to do nearly every 12 months.

The performance and enjoyment they get from their vessel very much depends on the quality of this work,” says David Harvey, marine manager of PPG. “This alliance allows us to give the very best of service and support to boat owners and showcase our products in their best light.”

“CAS has always provided an excellent service to the boat owners,” says Joel Weymouth of CAS. “But with this new initiative, including strict quality assurance, record keeping, attention to detail and working closely with the coatings manufacturer, it means the outcome for the boat owner is even better.”

All par ties in this alliance are ver y excited about being able to bring a new way of doing business to the industr y that means a big win for boat owners.

Ph: 0406 111 360 info@completeantifoul.com www.completeantifoul.com

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AUG - OCT 2016

BOAT GOLD COAST

BOATGOLDCOAST.COM. AU

37

BOAT SAILING

Diary of a Clipper Race Sailor

By Luke Dernedde (Visit Seattle)

rior to Clipper Round the World Yacht Race, I had very limited sailing experience. I grew up P near the Broadwater and my parents had a small boat when I was young. I used to love tripping around in it with my friends on the weekends.

I had also done two trips sailing around the Whitsundays with friends, which we chartered ourselves. But these trips didn’t exactly prepare me for the rigours of ocean racing.

Growing up in Australia, I watched and admired the Sydney to Hobart Yacht Race. I always aspired to somehow be a part of this event, but I just didn’t know how I was going to do it. I decided to participate in the Clipper Round the World Yacht Race at a point in my life when I was working and commuting a lot. One night, I was coming home late and saw an advertisement for the Clipper Race on the train. It was a challenge that I couldn’t resist, so I sent off my application then and there.

The Prep To participate, the Clipper Race requires you to complete four weeks of intensive training. If you’ve never been a part of ocean racing before, nothing can really prepare you for the extremes. It’s a steep learning curve as you learn to sail, as well as deal with the mental and physical toll it takes on you.

The first week of training and our first overnight sail during that week was a bit of a shock to the system. But I loved the challenge and it made me want to learn more.

Aside from the technical elements of knowing what to do on the boat, I prepared myself by training with a personal trainer and trying to eat a varied diet before I left, as food on the boat can become limited in the longer legs. I also had to purchase the necessary personal equipment - consisting mainly of warm clothing and wet weather gear. And of course, I drew confidence from the love and support my loved ones provided in the lead-up to the race.

This might sound silly, but I wasn’t prepared for the extreme weather conditions we would face.

So from that point of view, being a Gold Coaster was somewhat of a hindrance. We are too spoiled by year round beautiful weather! However, I’m quite fortunate that one of the Clipper Race’s main training facilities is in Sydney. Some people had to fly from all over the world just to complete their training. So living just a short flight away was certainly a benefit there.

In total, I was away for almost four months, including port stops between races. My portion of the race 38

Photos by Clipper Round the World

included two legs which was made up of five separate races: • Albany to Sydney • Sydney to Hobart • Hobart to Airlie Beach • Airlie Beach to Da Nang (Vietnam) • Da Nang to Qingdao (China) The base cost of getting a berth on the Clipper Race is broken down into price per leg, and you also need to cover the cost of the four weeks of compulsory training. The cost per leg, of which I did two legs (4 and 5), is roughly 5,000 GBP per leg, and the four weeks of training is about the same price. Therefore, for my two legs and the training, it cost me around 15,000 GBP. You can cover the cost in instalments as part of a payment plan over time. Included in the cost is all your food during the race and the standard Henri Lloyd foul weather gear, as well as your crew uniforms. On top of that, you have insurance, flights, accommodation during stopovers, etc.

You are assigned to a boat while you’re completing the training, the aim being to even out the abilities, ages and sexes as possible.

It’s quite a big deal. And considering your own personal goals, you hope that you’re assigned to a boat with a skipper and crew who align with your reasons for doing the race.

You complete the fourth training week after crew allocation which allows you to train with some of your crew and skipper.

On board Visit Seattle Visit Seattle operated on a two-watch system, which was made up of four- to six-hour watches.

While on watch, you are responsible for all ondeck and down-below duties. Your time off watch is spent catching up on as much sleep as you can to recover. However, that doesn’t mean you won’t be woken in the middle of your off-watch sleep to go up to the bow to change a sail and then throw yourself back into your bunk, dripping wet, for another 30-minute sleep before you’re required to do it all over again!

We shared the on-deck roles as much as possible.

However, my main role on the boat was as a bowman, which involved assisting in changing the head sails no matter what the conditions. This meant I got thrown around a fair bit and spent most of my time saturated from head to toe. In the later part of my race, I was lucky enough to be asked to be an assistant watch leader, responsible for the

Luke Dernedde

crew on deck and maintaining the race strategy while the skipper was down below. It was also up to me and the other watch leaders to keep an eye on the wellbeing of the crew and make sure everyone was in good mental and physical health.

Aside from that role, all crew members were expected to help in the maintenance and cleaning of the boat. This included cleaning the heads, emptying the bilges, and disinfecting the surfaces down below every four hours. We also took turns doing ‘mother watch’, which meant feeding up to 20 hungry crew members for the day, and making endless cups of tea - accompanied, of course, with a soggy salty biscuit, or everyone’s favourite: chocolate!

Life changing?

I don’t believe in one event being a life-changing experience. Everything we go through in life changes us in some way. However, my highlight would be the Sydney to Hobart leg. It certainly lived up to expectations! For our crew, we were able to treat the Sydney to Hobart as a bit of a sprint race as we are generally at sea for weeks. So we really wanted to give this one everything we had.

Being the only Australian on-board Visit Seattle, I was able to prepare my other crew members for the excitement of Boxing Day, and the hectic race start with all the other yachts on the harbour. The race start was such a thrill and the conclusion at the other end was a really tight finish between all of the Clipper 70 fleet. It was very exciting! The final morning of the Sydney to Hobart race was spent sailing downwind in spectacular weather conditions zig-zagging between each other and jostling for position.

I have certainty learned a lot about leadership, which I know will transition well into my profession.

I also learned a lot about priorities in life and the value of great friends and family, and how lucky I am to have a supportive partner.

AUG - OCT 2016

BOAT SAILING

Back home It’s been an ongoing adjustment to transition back into a more structured, and at times, mundane lifestyle. I spent the first week or so waking up in four-hour intervals and wondering why someone wasn’t reminding me I was needed up on deck.

Much to my girlfriend’s disgust, normal isn’t quite as appealing as it used to be. I’m on the lookout for my next adventure!

The Clipper Race was a great experience and taught me everything I know about sailing. But I’d like to pursue other avenues for future ocean racing. I’m also hoping to complete my coastal skipper course so I can use my new-found skill for some more laid back holiday style sailing too.

Top three tips for those who want to sail in general • If you suffer from sea sickness think twice before joining the race. I watched many of our crew suffering for the whole time we were at sea.

• Where possible, stay warm and dry. Take special care to look after your hands and keep your feet dry.

• Have an esky full of chocolate!

Advice for those who want to join the Clipper Round the World Yacht Race • Plan ahead where possible. It requires a large financial commitment, and significant amount of time out of your day-to-day life.

• Be prepared that you may find the sailing element not to be the hardest part. You will need to be open-minded and tolerant of living with a range of people. You will be living in close proximity, and learning how to navigate and get the best out of everyone’s strengths and weaknesses.

Questions about the Clipper Race and ocean racing? Need an extra hand on your yacht?

Contact Luke at lukedernedde@gmail.com.

Gold Coast Boating Community Mourns Passing of Paul O’Hanlon

Paul was an avid boating enthusiast and regular member of several local boat clubs.

He established a family boat shop Capri Boat Sales in the mid-nineties at Isle of Capri that also operated boat fuel sales and several rental boats.

As the business grew the business expanded to Runaway Bay Marina

and became what is now known as Gold Coast Boat Sales.

While Paul will be dearly missed among fellow boat club members and by the team at Gold Coast Boat Sales, he certainly left his mark on the local boating industry.

The rest of the O’Hanlon family will continue with the business that they have all grown to love ... ... their passion of being on water, and sharing great times with their family and friends.

ABOUT THE CLIPPER ROUND THE WORLD YACHT RACE The first Clipper Round the World Yacht Race crew left Plymouth in October 1996 on board eight 60-foot yachts. (Today, they sail 70-foot yachts.) The Clipper Round the World is one of the biggest challenges of the natural world and an endurance test like no other. With no previous sailing experience necessary, it’s a record breaking 40,000 nautical mile race around the world on a 70-foot ocean racing yacht. All that is asked of participants is a good level of fitness, an age over 18, and a thirst for adventure into the unknown. It is the only race in the world where the organisers supply a fleet of twelve identical racing yachts, each with a fully qualified skipper to safely guide the crew

MARINA MAID FOR PEACE OF MIND AND A LITTLE BIT OF LUXURY

M

arina Maid provide boat owners with internal detailing, linen service and provisioning. This unique concierge service allows the boat owner to hop off the boat after a day of fun and hand over the on-shore responsibilities to Marina Maid.

Marina Maid is for boat owners wanting to make the most of their day, without the humdrum of a tidy-up after a great experience on the water. This unique service gives the owners more time to do what they would rather be doing, and sets them up for a great feeling when they step back on board as the interior has been cleaned and polished to perfection, ready to be enjoyed.

Upon arrival, your maid will clean and polish the interior of the boat, organise fresh linen, prepare beds and restock fridges for your next adventure on the water. The service is reliable and completely confidential, while offering a skilled internal detail.

For boat brokers, the Marina Maid also provide pre-sales display boat detailing and pre-delivery detailing.

Based at Marina Mirage, the Marina Maid can travel to boats moored at private homes and at all other Gold Coast marinas. The service is available to boats ranging from 42ft to 100ft+.

Services include vacuuming, linen change, metal polishing (sinks, shower fixtures, shower frames), dish washing, laundry service, refrigerator clean out, dusting, interior glass cleaning, wood cleaning and bathroom cleaning.

Contact Marina Maid on 0419 774 753

BOATGOLDCOAST.COM. AU

39

BOAT GOLD COAST

CHAPARRAL SUNCOAST OUTBOARD DECK BOATS WITH STYLE

C

h aparral introduces its first outboard series in 25 years - the Suncoast deck boat range. Available in four new models from 21 to 25 feet, Suncoast offers a huge volume platform for passengers and storage, with toilets on all models, massive wrap around swim platforms that maximise the outboard concept, and in the case of the 210 an optional ski/fish package, with convertible seating, live bait tank, trolling motor, rod storage and other neat fishing features.

With 31 models to choose from, which Chaparral are you?......

With the trend towards outboard-powered boats growing worldwide and the success of Chaparral’s massive R & D program, we are told that these new Suncoast models are only the tip of the Chaparral iceberg. Scott O’Hare, from Chaparral Australia, says, “We believe that more of the existing inboard range will be offered with outboards, including our entry level bow riders, and expect we will see some announcements before the end of the year.”

“The Suncoast range offers all of the same saltwater-tough DNA as the rest of the Chaparral fleet, with high freeboard, self draining decks, 316-grade stainless steel hull, and deck fittings and loom-wrapped tinned wiring just to mention a few, along with the highest quality gel coats, resins and upholstery materials.

The construction is one thing, but the design is another, with hulls designed to offer a soft, dry ride, even in rougher conditions. We reckon the Suncoast will be a great option for Gold Coast boaties looking for a fuel-efficient low-maintenance boat to live on the water,” says O’Hare.

For more information on Chaparral Suncoast boats, go to www.chaparralboats.com or call Stefan Boating World on (07) 5665-8400.

Suncoast Sport & SkiFish outboard deck boats 21-25ft

The home of Chaparral Queensland

5665 8400

27 Waterway Drive Coomera

www.chaparralboats.com

Measures from the outside, Nothing on the Inside

Fresh water, Grey water, Black water/sewage, Fuel and oil.

Gobius Tank Monitor Systems have the unique ability to measure levels from the outside of the tank without penetrating the tank in any way. This Patented technology is suited for any liquid and most tanks. The problem with existing level indicators is they need to be inside the tank. This can lead to constant cleaning, contamination and false readings particularly with blackwater tanks. This has been a constant burden in the past for other level indicators, but things have changed. The knock and listen technology behind this product will never need cleaning and will always read true. No longer would you need to guess if your level indicator is reading correctly, clogged or has failed completely.

Can be installed on Polypropylene, Polyethylene, Fibreglass, Aluminium, Steel and Stainless Steel.

DIY - Installed and ready to use in 30 minutes No drilling into the tank, perfect for aftermarket Ideal for black water, grey water and fuel tanks that you can install yourself Industrial Gobius is available, turning pumps on and off when full or empty is reached All Gobius products work on 12 or 24 Volts. (AC On request)

info@ ca tagroup.com.au 40

www. c a t a g r o u p . c o m . a u

PH: 0 7 5 5 7 1 6 7 6 4 AUG - OCT 2016

BOAT GOLD COAST

attention to Detail is KeY E

s tablished in 1976, Goodline Trimming, Australia’s luxury marine designers, trimmers and upholsterers, have an impeccable 40-year history of producing first class, timeless marine interiors, products and services. Goodline Trimming are specialist manufacturers of exterior cleats, clears, awnings, screens and covers. They are experts in refits, refurbishments and new vessel fit-outs. They are constantly crafting new and exciting products for the everchanging and increasing market, providing flawless design, value for money and outstanding service without compromise to quality. Offering a complete interior/exterior service they cater to private clientele and boat builders, such as Norman R Wright & Son, with whom they have been working for over 24 years. Attention to detail sets the company apart - whether the vessel is a trailer boat or superyacht - the same innovative, dedicated and professional service is assured.

48 BOATGOLDCOAST.COM. AU

Goodline Trimming’s extensive range of products and services include design consultation, interior and exterior seating and carpets, clears, screens and covers, deck heads and wall linings, as well as furnishings, mattresses and fender hooks.

With confidence to fulfill each client’s expectations, the company offer an obligation-free quote.

Super Fender. In 1986, Goodline Fender designed the original and superior quality Super Fender. Permanently fixed to pontoons and jetties, the Super Fender means no more fenders required when berthing or mooring. The ingenious product reduces boat maintenance, as scuffing and scratching while at dock are a thing of the past.

Available with an optional extra chaffing cover made of marine-grade soft carpet that won’t scratch your boat and reduce accidental damage, wear and tear caused

f a c e b o ok .c o m /g o o d l i n e t r i m

by UV, and generally prolong the life of the fender. Super Fender reduces stress on the boat and pontoon with the load spread over a greater area. Constructed of UV-treated super tough vinyl, the fender material is a cylinder of the finest high-density energy absorbing material. Uniquely designed, all structural seams are high-frequency welded for durability and appearance.

Each Super Fender is custom-made to fit each installation. It is fixed well clear of the water, and therefore remains attractive and ensures long-life expectancy.

Super Fenders are designed and manufactured in Queensland and over 5000 have been installed in the marketplace.

The product is covered by a full 12-month warranty and are available in a choice of colours to suit your pontoon jetty.

MAY - jul 2016 41

BOAT GUIDE

Laws of Commercial Boat Registration

By Captain John Kavanagh, AFNI MQLS

I

n Queensland, there are two systems for the registration of boats that may be of interest to Gold Coast boaties. Recreational registration is a relatively cheap and simple process designed for private boat owners and is administered through the Queensland Department of Transport and Main Roads (TMR). Boats intended to be used commercially must be registered as a Domestic Commercial Vessel (DCV) under a more expensive and complex regime administered by the Australian Maritime Safety Authority (AMSA).

The key question often asked by boat owners is: When do I have to register my boat for commercial use? Unfortunately, but not surprisingly, with respect to maritime legal matters, the answer is not a straightforward one.

Let us take a brief look at the regulatory landscape to consider the issue.

Prior to the commencement of the National Law in 2013, commercial vessels in Queensland were required to be registered under Queensland legislation, the Transport Operations (Marine Safety) Act 2004 (TOMSA). The relationship between the definitions of a recreational vessel and a commercial vessel under the TOMSA meant that unless a vessel was being used ‘exclusively for private recreation’, then it had to be registered as a commercial vessel. This was a clear boundary that generally caused few difficulties. If a vessel was used for something other than private recreation, then it had to be commercially registered.

Since the introduction of the National Law, there is now considerable doubt over the boundary between ‘commercial use’ of a vessel (that triggers the requirement to be registered as a DCV) and simple ‘recreational use’ of a vessel.

TO BE A DCV OR NOT A DCV A DCV is defined in section 7 of the National Law as ‘a vessel that is for use in connection with a commercial, governmental or research activity.’ This is a very broad definition, made broader by the use of the phrase ‘in connection with’. This means that the commercial use of the vessel does not have to be the dominant or the

Photo by Chaparral Boats

primary use of the vessel. It merely needs to be ‘in connection with’ the activity of the specified nature, to fall under the application of the National Law. However, the meaning of the word ‘commercial’ is not defined in the National Law. So we turn to the Macquarie Dictionary, which states, in respect of a commercial vehicle, that ‘commercial’ means something ‘used primarily for carrying goods for trade or paying passengers’.

There is also a general legal definition of ‘in trade or commerce’ under the Australian Consumer Law. The leading case on the interpretation of that phrase is Concrete Constructions (N.S.W.) Pty Ltd V. Nelson, which as part of a very long winded statement, tells us that ‘in trade or commerce’ means ‘the conduct of a corporation … [that] bear[s] a trading or commercial character.’ So the key issue is the characterisation of the ‘conduct’ with a third party is that it must have a ‘commercial’ character. ((1990) 169 CLR 594, per Mason CJ, Deane, Dawson and Gaudron JJ at para 8.)

Naturally, this statement was made in the context of consumer protection legislation. And here we are discussing boat registration, so the considerations are slightly different. Nevertheless, a court may adopt a similar interpretation on the meaning of ‘commercial’.

Of course, the mere ‘driving’ of a boat by a corporation is not, by itself, a commercial use of that boat, unless there is some commercial relationship with another party also involved. In the absence of a ‘commercial relationship’ with another party at the time that you are using the boat, the use of the boat is not considered commercial. So, for example, if you are not carrying goods for trade nor carrying paying passengers, it is unlikely that a particular use of a boat will be considered commercial.

Therefore, absent any advice from the AMSA or any court decisions, a vessel probably does not need to be registered as a DCV, unless it is used in direct connection with a commercial activity involving a third party.

The National Law also expressly states that some uses of a boat do not, of themselves, make it a DCV. Examples include boats that are sponsored, used for promotional activities or a film set, if a person is paid to be a crew member, or if they are owned and used by a school. AMSA has also made some exemptions, including dragon boats. So, it is safe to say that there are significant commercial uses of recreational boats that do not make them DCVs, and that are completely lawful.

However, there remains significant uncertainty as to whether any particular intended use of a boat could appear to be connected with a commercial activity and might trigger the application of the National Law. Consequently, if it appears to an observer that your recreationally registered boat is engaged in a commercial activity, it is recommended that you should have a formal statement prepared to be carried on board the vessel describing your actual use of the vessel so that it can be shown to on- water inspectors, such as officers of the Queensland Boating and Fisheries Patrol or Maritime Safety Queensland. Such a statement is sort of a maritime version of the ‘tank water in use on gardens’ sign.

As further reassurance, you may write to the AMSA describing your specific use and request a determination on whether the boat requires registration as a DCV or not. We suggest obtaining legal assistance with preparing such a submission.

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BOAT FEATURE

YACHT CLUB 70 YEAR HISTORY “Southport Yacht Club (SYC) membership is the most cosmopolitan in Australia. From every part of the nation people flock to Queensland’s Gold Coast to take up permanent residence. Many of the newcomers are keen boaties or yachties: the Gold Coast marine lifestyle is a major reason they decide to settle here. Before moving to the Gold Coast, most such people belong to a yacht club and often played an active role in its operation. Since its founding, the SYC has received a regular infusion of experienced new members whose input has benefited the Club.”

In 2016, the Club celebrates the 70th anniversary, and today, as in McRobbie’s time, the success and driving force of SYC is only possible through the dedication of the members. It is unlikely that any of the early members foresaw their Club and its facilities develop into a multimillion dollar business enterprise and the jewel of Queensland boating.

- Alexander McRobbie, historian and acclaimed local journalist, in his book, The History of Southport Yacht Club (1996)

In 1897, a Southport Easter Regatta was held.

From then on, regattas became a feature of the Southport social life with spectacular sail pasts. In the early 20th century, The Southport

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The Club remains an interesting place to socialise with frequently arriving vessels from around the world. The crew, whether they be race crews or married couples on a journey, have navigated many a treacherous sea, regularly dock at the Club, and spend their nights at the bar sharing stories of sailing adventures across the oceans.

History The Broadwater was first described by a passing 1822 naval ship captain as a “large lagoon”. The first recorded Broadwater sailing club was in 1880, when four prominent Southport residents staged races among themselves and were sometimes joined by visiting yachtsmen. These organised events and other spontaneous regattas brought great intrigue to the locals, giving birth to the idea of a local yacht club. However, a tragedy during one of these races that claimed the lives of three crew, set back any successful plans for a club for many years.

School (TSS) regatta was also a popular annual sailing event. And by the 1940’s, the Broadwater had become busy with both recreational and commercial vessels. The Brisbane yachting fraternity would cruise the passages south to discover the beauty of the Broadwater areas.

The voyage was best described as “a one bottle of rum trip” by the skipper of Maid of Sker to explain how long it would take to travel from Brisbane to Southport.

During World War II, a group of local boat owners offered sailing trips, with a picnic at Jumpinpin, to injured returned servicemen as part of their rehabilitation. These boat owners would eventually become the foundation members of the newly formed Southport Yacht Club.

On April 5, 1946, the mayor of Southport, John Proud proudly chaired a meeting of approximately 70 people at the Southport Council Chambers in Nerang Street. After a considerable discussion, it was agreed that further meetings would take place to organise the details for the formation of the yacht club. Eventually, the Southport Yacht Club was formed, with Lindsay Firth as the very first Commodore.

The Club’s early objectives were to acquire land for a club house, define and beacon all channels, improve picnic spots in the bay and rivers, and lobby to have the main channel deepened.

Almost weekly, there was a new boating disaster at the Southport bar possibly claiming more wrecked vessels than any other bar in the world.

AUG - OCT 2016

Imagination & hard work since 1946 The members of the yacht club were often asked to assist visiting vessels wanting to cross the treacherous bar.

available. In 1959, with a membership of 203, the Club successfully acquired a liquor license, and also installed a telephone.

Many of the early members would go on to feature prominently in the management and urban development of the city of Gold Coast.

Fortunately, around this time, expert town planner, Dr Karl Langer, a well-known Brisbane architect, during the planning the Main Beach precinct, included a site for the Club with ample surround car parking space on arguably the best site along the whole Broadwater.

The early members were community-minded and helped shape the development of the Broadwater.

Their pioneering dedication to marine conservation in the area remains until this day.

After the Club’s second year, the members approached the Southport Trainee Squadron, which had been formed way back in 1926, to join the Club at their Hollywell base. Technically then, the SYC junior club is in fact older than the senior club.

It would be nearly 10 years before the first club house would be built. As Main Beach was zoned as an upmarket “Brick Area”, the construction would need to be permanent and the ground level raised before building. By 1952, the Club had 70 members. After much lobbying for financial backing and fundraising by the ladies’ committee, construction of the club house began in 1953.

The modest club house was officially opened in 1956. There was no fancy bar servicing alcohol, nor was there a restaurant serving food. However, the members were thrilled that basics such as bread, milk, butter, ice and the newspaper were

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By the late 1950’s, boating on the Broadwater was booming. All this, well before the advent of riverfront homes and canal estates. Many boat owners simply moored their boats close to their homes, causing what was coined as “nautical congestion”. By 1966, members were informed by the then Commodore Lee Kilner, that impressive numbers of overseas and interstate guests were visitors to the Club which made the Club unique, and that these guests were helping to keep the Club up-to-date in its thinking.

By 1967, Queensland was heading towards becoming one of the largest recreational boating destinations in the country. The state government began implementing a mooring fee of $5 per feet per year, even if the boat owners were up in arms.

In 1969, the first lady skippers race was held.

The Club has always kept up with the times, so up until that year, the Club insisted that boating was predominantly for men. It was in 1974 that the Club’s constitution was amended to permit the formation of what was initially called a “Ladies Auxiliary”, formally titled the Associates Committee, where ladies were granted an

associates membership. However, it was not until the half year meeting on April 1986, when the Club finally decided to admit women as full members, should they so desire.

In 1972, due to demand in the area, the Club opened a slipway that had a waiting list for those wanting to slip their boats. A few years later, approval was granted by the Department of Harbours and Marine to build a floating marina. However, it would take several years and a unique financing arrangement by some members to have the first stages of the marina ready for occupancy. Between 1977 and 1981 the marina was continually expanded due to growing demand. The floating marina and hard stand were officially opened in 1986.

In 1982, another major Club facility was built on South Stradbroke Island, on a sandy beach front block, suitable for offshore anchorage that was offered to the Club by the council. Many committed members organised themselves as working bees and set sail with members’ boats carrying building equipment and supplies. After a few years of hard work, the area came to be known as the DUX and was equipped with amenities and a caretaker’s residence. At the 1985 peak of the season, there were 85 boats anchored for the weekend at the Dux Basin.

Finally in 1991, after an expansion of the area and various improvements on facilities, a crowd of 400 people gathered on the picturesque island location to see what had been achieved by volunteers after 10 years of dedicated service. >

45

BOAT FEATURE

< In 1992, through a generous sporting grant from Jupiters Casino, an amount of $500,000 was received by the Club, which was used to build new facilities and amenities at Hollywell. The development of the junior facilities established the Club and the Gold Coast as a yacht racing force on both national and international levels.

Continuing the excitement at the Club, in May 1995 a $17 million full-scale jarrah replica of Captain James Cook’s Endeavour berthed at the Club, with a total of 18,000 visitors coming to see the vessel over nine days, 7,000 of which actually visited the Club. By this time, the Club had over 800 social members.

After several years of resistance from members, the Club finally installed poker machines in 1993 to generate much needed operating funds. The introduction of the poker machines led to the creation of a social member status at the Club.

The social members had no voting rights and most had no interest in boating.

Millennium Milestones Today’s Club is as much a remarkable story of the survival of a community initiative, as it is about the Club’s teams surviving out at sea. Having overcome many hurdles in their formative years, such as financial constraints with long periods of waiting and hoping, and extended periods of fund raising, the members have always held on with a passion.

This persistence has seen the Club eventually prosper to become financially sustainable.

That same year, the Club began its involvement in the most ambitious project in its history. The SYC was successful in its $2.6 million dollar bid to make the Gold Coast as the Australian training base from March to September in 1994 for the oneAustralia and Sydney 95 America’s Cup teams. The wind and wave patterns of the shores of the Gold Coast were similar to those expected in the San Diego-held competition in 1995. To prepare for the training, the Queensland Department of Transport very quickly dredged a channel to the Seaway.

The Club grounds were transformed into a hightech training facility complete with a huge work shed and a massive crane used to lift the yachts in and out of the water. Even though the oneAustralia yacht was defeated by the Kiwis, this initiative delivered between $300,000 and $400,000 to the Club including a large L-shaped floating marina and a significant increase in membership.

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After 70 years of continuous investment, SYC facilities have expanded to become a multipurpose boating mecca that caters to the service requirements of boat owners and social life of Club members and casual visitors. The floating marina has been expanded to 300 berths with 10 super yacht berths. Every year, they receive between 500 and 800 visiting vessels. The most significant investments in facilities and amenities include the renovations to the marina in 2007 (which was awarded the as Best Marina in Australia in the same year) and the major renovations to the Main Beach Clubhouse in 2008. In 2011, a major renovation was undertaken at the Hollywell Clubhouse.

In 2015, an arrival/departure pontoon was installed at the Dux. These vast investments did not go unnoticed, having been given a Gold Anchor accreditation of 4-1/2 Anchors by the Marina Industries Association in 2014 and awarded the Rowland Best Innovation Award to the Club in 2016 for the Waterscape pontoon bar by the Keno and Clubs Queensland.

Gone also are the days of an exclusive male membership. The Club is very up to date with signs of the times, and advocates for equal opportunities and progressive thinking. In 2013, a long-time member, Kerry Noyes, was appointed Vice Commodore for Sail. And recently, at the 70th Annual General Meeting of Southport Yacht Club held on 25 July 2016, Kerry was appointed Commodore. She is the first female Commodore of the Club. This is a very significant achievement for Queensland sailing and the SYC community.

The very strict dress code has also relaxed to keep up with the times. Back in the 1960’s, the Executive Board preferred white open-necked shirt with short sleeves, white shorts, and long white golf socks and preferably white shoes.

These days, the Club requires you to “dress respectfully in your own style”.

The most challenging aspect of managing the Club is overcoming the perception of exclusivity.

The waterfront restaurant and bar is open to the public and the membership packages are very affordable. Although some members are

AUG - OCT 2016

Competitive on the water & in-house amenities “mega rich”, most members are regular people with a love of boating. The Club is definitely “not exclusive nor snobby”.

In 2013, SYC was awarded Best Casual Dining

by Clubs Queensland and the prestigious Marina Restaurant of the Year by the Marina Industries Association.

This year, the Club reports over 3,000 members and more than 100,000 annual visitors to the venue. There are over 80 staff employed by the Club. Add to that the many thousands of hours of labour voluntarily contributed by members.

This large team of people, working for a common cause, are able to stage over 500 boat races each year, as well as many of the Club’s traditional occasions and a myriad of social functions. All these interactive opportunities provide the community with a hub to meet and partake in on-water activities with likeminded sporting enthusiasts.

Other aspects of the Club that help keep the quality of service to the members and the community involve the Club’s marketing strategies and its sailing programs that encourage young people to participate.

The Club’s free learn-to-sail programs are a significant contribution to the local community.

In addition, the Club’s marketing manager, Bronwen Hemmings, was awarded Club Super Young Manager Encouragement of the Year 2016 by the Keno and Clubs Queensland.

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What is a Club without competition?

The Club has always strived for boating excellence.

As far back as 1946, when just a handful of boats jostled for a win, the Club aspired to be the best—to win, no matter the effort required. This belief and the Club’s relentless investment in the future have paid off. The Club’s go-get-it attitude on the water is optimised in one of its homegrown heroes, Mathew Belcher OAM, knighted for his sailing excellence.

Mathew, who learned to sail at Hollywell and went on to win a staggering seven world sailing championships that included a Gold Medal at the 2012 London Olympics in Sailing 470 class.

The Club’s recent sailing participation includes wins in the following races: Clipper Round the World Yacht Race (2010), Sabot National Titles (2011), First Sail Paradise Regatta (2012), Nacra Infusion World Championships (2013) and Etchells National Titles (2014).

Today, the Main Beach Clubhouse stands against a dramatic backdrop of international hotels and world-renowned beaches. The boating lifestyle has remained a major draw card to new families looking to reside in the city. Boating has become a significant contributor to the city’s economic success. While the environment, and the accessibility to beautiful sheltered waters and easy access to the ocean are the reasons why boating has become so popular, the founding members of the Southport Yacht Club and all the members throughout its rich seventy year history, who have donated their time and energy

over the years, must be acknowledged for their vision and foresight to believe in a way of life closely connected to the waterways. Boating on the Gold Coast is what captures the attention of many of us. The city and the Club will continue to prosper as the rest of the world discover our boating life and the historic and cosmopolitan Southport Yacht Club.

This year’s 70th anniversary celebrations at SYC officially began on April 19 with the Birthday Bash.

Festivities included past and present members of the navigation division joining the 2016 SYC Open Power Boat Navigation Event. On July 9, the SYC 70th Anniversary Gala Ball was held with live entertainment and dinner dance.

The 70th Anniversary Sail Past and Blessing of the Fleet will be staged at the Main Beach Clubhouse on September 3. It will be a fun family day with vessels being dressed and decorated. An SYC Members-only anniversary celebratory event on October 1 will feature a performance from legendary Australian musician Daryl Braithwaite.

Written by Andy Kancachian. This information was made possible by the extensive documentation from historian and award winning journalist Alexander McRobbie, and contributions by SYC General Manager Brett James, Waterfront Manager Mark Riddell, Marketing Manager Bronwen Hemmings and Membership Coordinator Rosemary Austin. Photos

by Southport Yacht Club, Bob Avery, G.A Black and Margaret McDonald.

47

BOAT GUIDE SAILING

OCEAN SAILING

PODCASTS

Why they are so addictive HOW POPULAR ARE THESE PODCASTS?

How can we keep sailors’ stories alive? DAVID HOWS tells us about his podcasts, where the story-telling happens conveniently using personal computers or mobile devices at any given time.

S

tory-telling is a tradition and an art form. And sailors have some of the best stories to telltall tales or not. Perhaps it is because they spend so much time on their boats and experiencing the wild oceans, the salty air, the ever-changing skies, and everything else in between. They see, they feel, they hear, they smell, they experience. So how can we keep these stories alive?

For those who claim they are not writers or journalists, or those who simply do not have the time to write, a podcast is a medium that can be very powerful. Everyone loves stories, and being able to talk about and listen to topics that one is passionate about is such a basic human trait. Like radio talk shows, podcasts offer an opportunity to “eavesdrop” into a conversation between people who are sharing their stories and their passions.

And this is David’s story.

WHY PODCASTS? I have recently finished reading ‘Peter Montgomery: The Voice of Yachting’ by Bill Francis (2015), and ‘Australian Ocean Racing’, published in 1967 by Murray Davis. They are great chronicles of the birth of ocean racing in New Zealand and Australia, going back as far as 1907 with the first Melbourne to Tasmania Race. I have also been listening avidly to 130+ episodes of Andy Schell’s 59 North Sailing Podcast over the past 12 months.

These have inspired me to launch my own sailing podcast series called Ocean Sailing Podcast. I wanted to capture and share these ocean racing and sailing stories on a regular basis with armchair sailors, cruisers and racers across Australasia before some of them are lost forever.

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After six weeks, we are ranked in the Top 3 Sailing Podcasts on iTunes globally and are now seeing 1,700+ hours of content downloaded each week.

That’s three million minutes a year, which is quite amazing in such a short time.

The quality of the content is the key, I think. There are three parts to this: First, I focus on finding people who are involved in sailing in a diverse range of ways with great stories to tell.

Second, I spend two to three hours researching each of their backgrounds and preparing a list of 10 to 15 questions that will really help me drill down into areas they may not have been asked about before.

Third, I love sailing, whether cruising or racing. So, for me it’s just like having a conversation with a fellow sailor, which I think makes it easy to listen to.

WHAT IS ENJOYABLE ABOUT CREATING PODCASTS? I get to have conversations with people about a subject that I love immensely, and get to record them, which would otherwise not be possible.

WHICH ONE HAS BEEN MOST ENTERTAINING TO LISTEN TO AND WHY? I have loved all of them and they have all been different.

If you just look at the download data, Andy Lamont’s two-hour interview is ranked first and he is leaving in October to sail solo, non-stop around the world at age 57. It was a lot of fun to record as we sat inside his S&S 34 yacht. He had the excitement of a school boy setting out on a great adventure, as he described his plans, fears and expectations.

WHAT FEATURE STORIES DO YOU PLAN TO RECORD? I have a long ideas list that includes stories around cruising, ocean racing, the America’s Cup, extreme explorers and regular club sailors. Constant diversity is important, so it does not get monotonous for listeners.

WHAT IS THE MOST DIFFICULT ASPECT? Setting up integrated technology, so that you can automate/outsource various parts that take up some work. If you set up your own website, it’s a steep learning curve. But then you’ll have the skills to update it without paying someone else.

Getting the audio transcribed into article content for the show notes is a big job, even if someone else types it up for you. It’s great for SEO, but still requires you to edit the content. Otherwise, poor grammar and spelling issues will slip through.

ANY ADVICE ON CREATING PODCASTS? It takes a lot of work to set up, and probably up to 10 hours per episode to produce. It costs a few hundred dollars a month to set up properly. Don’t do it unless you are really passionate about the subject matter, as you won’t last.

WHAT TECHNOLOGY DO YOU USE? I use a MacBook Pro, Hindenburg recording/editing software, Libsyn for hosting and publishing, Mailchimp, a Facebook page, and Squarespace for my website.

WHAT IS THE BEST WAY TO LISTEN TO YOUR PODCASTS? Go to www.oceansailingpodcast.com/podcast. There are multiple ways to listen, by desktop or mobile device. And they’re all free.

YOUR OWN SAILING ADVENTURES It’s hard in a few words. They have included dingy sailing, competing at State, National and World title events, long summer holidays cruising with my family, sailing across the Tasman Sea. These days, I join 8090 club and ocean races a year on my Beneteau 44.5 out of the Southport Yacht Club. That will include the Sydney to Southport, Hamilton Island Race week, and Sydney to Hobart Races.

THE FUTURE OF GOLD COAST SAILING Extremely promising. It’s a great year round venue for sailing. We have seen our offshore keel boat fleet double in the last 12 months. The growth in the local economy has direct flow on benefits to sailing.

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49

BOAT GUIDE

FIRST AID for Boaties: 5 Basic Tips

By Scott Whimpey

E

ven though the weather has cooled down across most of the country, the Gold Coast is still experiencing temperatures in the 20’s with lots of sunshine. This means more time out on the water. Gold Coast marinas are still busy and the waterways are bustling with boats. This is why boaties need to stay vigilant with both awareness and water safety—including first aid.

1. Have a good first aid kit You are required by law to have a WHScompliant first aid kit on any vessel. The larger the boat, the more supplies are required. However, we have jotted down a few things to help get the ball rolling on some of the most used first aid items.

• Water proof container to protect your first aid kit • Tweezers for removing splinters or hooks • Crepe bandages (x2) for supporting injuries • Wound dressings/pads to attend to gashes, cuts and scratches • Antiseptic cream to treat wounds or bites • Instant cold pack – snap pack for relief on wounds or injuries • Latex gloves to use when dressing a wound to prevent infection • Premium plastic strips for small wounds • Safety pins to secure bandages • It is also suggested, if you spend a lot of time out on the water for long trips, to have an emergency thermal blanket and lots of bottles of water for both hydration and cleaning wounds if needed.

2. Know your passengers. Be aware of any existing sicknesses and what to do for them if they have a turn.

3. Know where to place a sick or injured passenger in your boat when transporting.

Usually, the back of the boat is the most stable, so get them in a position of comfort and go easy on the speed.

4. Know where you are for marine rescue.

Download the app Emergency+ on your smart phone. It will tell you where you are with GPS coordinates. (This is a national app developed by Australia’s emergency services and their Government and industry partners.)

5. Complete a first aid course. This will teach you how to do everything required to look after your patients on board. There’s no point having a first aid if you’re not sure how to use it or what to use it for.

Scott Whimpey is the director of First Aid Accident & Emergency, offering a variety of first aid courses on the Gold Coast. He is a first aid expert and a boating enthusiast. (www.firstaidae.com.au)

ONE OF TWEED HEADS MOST

POPULAR COURSES IS SEA SCHOOL’S

COXSWAIN NEAR COASTAL On e of the most popular courses conducted in the Tweed area is Sea School‘s Coxswain Course.

A licensed coxswain can operate a ferry, water taxi, jet boat, yacht, catamaran, fishing and dive boats, tourism and charter boats and a variety of commercial work boats. Officially known as MAR20313 Certificate II in Maritime Operations (Coxswain Grade 1 Near Coastal), this qualification is suitable for people who want to work, or are already working in the maritime industry. Coxswains may operate vessels up to 12 metres in length in sheltered waters.

Course and duration: This course is delivered in a flexible block mode, allowing students to complete the course in two sessions of one-week blocks each over a period of time.

There is also a sea service component and graduates must sit an oral examination with the regulator, Australian Maritime Safety Authority (AMSA) before being issued their certificate of competency.

How many students are usually in this class?: The maximum class size is 12 people. Students get personalised one-on-one time with experienced trainers.

Coming course dates: Courses are held bi-monthly at the Tweed Seasports. Next courses commence on Monday 19 September and Monday 21 November 2016.

Fees : A $2,900 course fee includes Marine Radio Operator’s Certificate of Proficiency (MROCP) and Elements of Shipboard Safety. Payment plans available.

Contact Sea School Marine Training: Sea School offers General Purpose Hand, Coxswains Grade 1, 2 & 3, Marine Engine Driver 3, Master under 24, and MROCP courses. Tweed Seasports offers First Aid courses. For more information go to www.seaschool.com.au or call 1300 666 416

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AUG - OCT 2016

BOAT GOLD COAST

BRISBANE BOAT SHOW

IF YOU LOVE BOATS, FISHING & WATER SPORTS YOU DON’T WANT TO MISS THE BRISBANE BOAT SHOW

• The latest and greatest displays of products and services • Entertainment, education, advice and plenty to see for all the family • Fresh new releases from Queensland’s major boating manufacturers • Visit the displays in comfort in the huge exhibition halls OPEN: Friday and Saturday 10am to 8pm Sunday 10am to 6pm

T

he Brisbane Boat Show has served Australia’s largest boating population well for over 50 years. But organisers promise a fresh approach with new dates and complementary new venue.

Looking to make a boating purchase in 2016? Don’t miss the Brisbane Boat Show and the best offerings from Queensland marine dealers.

• New releases from major suppliers • Huge clearance of fishing tackle • Show only deals • Expert advice Brisbane’s premier and exclusive boating-only show returns to the Brisbane Exhibition Centre at Southbank. This Boat Show brings all the glory and fun around the fabulous lifestyle of boating and will provide a fantastic forum for novice and experienced boaties.

DATES: 19-21 August, 2016 (Friday – Sunday) HOURS: Fri & Sat 10am to 8pm, Sun 10am to 6pm TICKET PRICES: Adults $15, Children $5 (under 5’s go Free), Family Ticket $35, Seniors and Pensioners $12, and all tickets are $5 after 5pm.

By Bus: South Bank is serviced by two bus stations: The Cultural Centre Station on Melbourne Street and the South Bank Bus-way Station corner of Colchester and Tribune Streets, South Bank.

By Catamaran: A popular and speedy way to travel the river. CityCats operate everyday and stop at the South Bank River Terminal on the Clem Jones Promenade. The inner-city ferry travels between the CBD, North Quay and Kangaroo Point, stopping at South Bank Terminal 1 and 2 on the Clem Jones Promenade.

LOCATION: Brisbane Convention & Exhibition Centre Getting to the show Brisbane Convention & Exhibition Centre is an easy 10 minute walk from the CBD and has direct access to an efficient transport network. For information about public transport visit translink.com.au or call 13 12 30

By Car: There is an undercover car park which accommodates 1500 vehicles with 3 additional car parks.

Car parks 2 & 3 are best for Exhibition Hall access.

By Train: South Brisbane Railway Station adjacent to the Convention Centre on Grey Street. The city to airport Air Train operates from the South Brisbane train station, adjacent to the Convention Centre.

By Taxi: Taxi ranks are located outside the main entrance to the Convention Centre on Merivale Street, at Mantra South Bank on Grey Street. There is a taxi drop off located at the Convention Centre Grey Street entrance.

The door to getting Australians onto the water

19 to 21 August BRISBANE CONVENTION & EXHIBITION CENTRE SOUTHBANK

BRISBANE

Brisbane’s premier boating only show returns to its former home.

The event that brings all the glory and fun around the lifestyle of boating will provide a fantastic forum for boaties.

Open: 10am to 8pm (closes 6pm Sunday)

BrisbaneBoatShow.com.au Follow us

BOATGOLDCOAST.COM. AU

Member of

Presented by

Tickets available at the door or online

51

BOAT GUIDE SAILING

Boat Builders

OF TAMBORINE MOUNTAIN

Mount Tamborine resonates of rainforest scenes and smells, the arts and the crafts. But did you know there are boats being built up there? Andy Kancachian interviews Scruffie Marine owner Derek Ellard about the mountain-top boat-building facility.

D

erek Ellard claims that the most provoking aspect of working on Mount Tamborine is “the seemingly endless Noah jokes.” But for this Tamborine boat-builder of more than 30 years, building boats on a mountain is not a joke. Derek admits, “There are occasional supply problems.

However, all our boats are trailerable - even the bus-sized 33 so they are efficiently transported off the mountain.”

For Derek and business partner Annette Hollist, there are numerous advantages to be on the mountain. “We live and work on a beautiful rainforest plateau - our house is ten minutes from the workshop and wonderfully peaceful.

It’s lovely living in a small community where you know lots of people and you can rely on friends and neighbours.”

The Scruffie Marine boats are painstakingly hand-built, rather than being assembly-line massproduction boats. Derek points out, “A Scruffiebuilt boat is a fine seaworthy little ship and would still be so even if it were mass produced. A handbuilt boat will always have a special quality. It will always be customised for the owner, and like a work of art, will carry the builder’s signature.”

HISTORY In the early 1990s, the recession hit Derek’s three high-end businesses very hard. Never one to dwell on misfortune, he knew he had to change direction, so Derek began to list his passions, skills and prospects. “I loved boats, I was a pretty good woodworker with a background in visual arts and I was ambitious. I then researched the boating industry and saw a niche that I could fill and the kit systems were developed accordingly.

The first prototype was built on a shoestring and launched on a borrowed trailer. It sailed very well and while it has evolved in key areas, it is still recognizably the same today.”

The company gained early publicity with Brisbane’s Courier Mail. The journalist asked Derek what kind of boat it was. He replied, “It was a back-to-basics knockabout family sailboat.” The journalist’s response was, “A bit scruffy then?”

52

“Scruffy” Derek thought it was a great name. So he decided to use it, but changed the spelling with an “ie” at the end. And it stuck.

Citing reasons for his boat-building abilities, “I had trained in the Fine Arts, but my first love was always in woodworking. So by the time I was in my twenties, I was a full-time shop-fitter and cabinetmaker. Meanwhile, I sailed and worked on the family boat and clients’ boats. The combination of Art School training plus hands-on boatbuilding was valuable in setting up the business.”

Scruffie Marine business partner Annette is described by Derek as “literally irreplaceable”.

Defining her role, he says, “Her skills in office management plus client and supplier liaison are an essential part of the business. But her training in art and design has meant that in-house brochures, publicity materials are readily available and more recently the computer rendering of new models is now in her capable hands and she is currently re-designing our website.” Annette has also had hands-on kit building experience in the yard, so she knows the product and understands the processes.

THE BOATS IN DETAIL Great knowledge and skills have developed over the years to keep Scruffie up with the times. “We build with epoxy resins, fibreglass plug and mouldmaking, thermo-formed and extruded plastics. I have developed a new kit-build system, a hollow wooden mast building process, laminated components and much more. We utilize a comprehensive inhouse design process from conception through to production. Exploring innovative combinations of traditional aesthetics with modern hull forms and efficient production techniques.”

Derek continues, “To date, we have sold 329 Scruffie boats. Of these, 75 percent were sold in kit form, while the remainder were finished products. The boats range from the Shimmy 12 to the Secret 33.”

They are all unashamedly “retro” in appearance, drawing on a variety of late 19th and early 20th Century English working boats commonly in use

Secret 33

where Derek grew up and learned to sail in the UK. “While they have fishing-boat DNA, the boats are small and traditionally rigged trailerable sailing boats, mostly for cruising - although one, the Secret 20, is wonderfully fast. Incidentally, this boat was chosen by England’s bestselling boating magazine, Practical Boat Owner, as a project boat to feature in the magazine and at the London Boat Show.”

Derek explains that Scruffie boats were initially niche-market driven. But in recent years, the “Spirit of Tradition” movement has gained momentum especially in Europe, so the boats are finding increased opportunities. In Australia, the Shimmy 12 and Stornaway 18 share top billing, and in the UK, the Secret 20.

Scruffie boats are unique in many ways. “We pioneered the slot system kits which make it much easier and quicker to build. All models are quick and easy to rig, the Shimmy 12 can be rigged and launched in ten minutes. Our boats are little ships rather than dinghies. They are safe, stable, seaworthy vessels with a proven track record as navy cadet and sail training boats. Their modern version of gaff or lugsail rigs perform very well. And we are always complimented on their looks.” These boats have simple, efficient three-quarter length ballasted keels - no dagger boards to jamb or trip you up in the shallows. It is the company’s refusal to compromise on quality that has definitely helped to ensure they are still very much in business.

What can we expect from Scruffie boats? Derek is confident that Scruffie owners can rely on the boats to get them home safely, and assures his buyers that they are real sailing boats, “not skittish nerve AUG - OCT 2016

Left photo: A Secret 33 electric launch nearing completion; Above photo: A Secret 20

Shimmy 12

wracking show ponies”. “The gaffers and luggers are inherently more stable than Bermudan-rigged craft, which is why they persisted in workboats over the centuries. They can take rough weather and smooth sailing equally. They are powerful but safe and steady in a seaway. While a fin-keeled racer will beat our boats to windward, we don’t give too much away. Off wind, our long keels and low aspect rigs come into their own.”

SCRUFFIE GOES SOLAR ELECTRIC “Our first solar electric boat, the Sienna 19, performed really well and still does,” explains Derek. “But the boat really needed to be bigger to take full advantage of more solar input.”

Enter the Secret 33, a yacht-design hull with a higher freeboard for survey requirements and big passenger capacity of up to 16 persons.

BOATGOLDCOAST.COM. AU

“The first of the new boats is in service in Perth as a 12-passenger boat and performs really well with at least three quarters of the daily power consumption coming directly from the sun, leaving a minimum of shore charging necessary to top up.”

Derek explains other advantages. The running costs are dramatically lower then diesel. There is no noise, no fumes, no vibration, and most importantly, no pollution. Clearly this is excellent news for the owner or operator.

Derek is excited about the future of Scruffie solar electrics. “We have enquiries from Florida, Turkey, Brisbane and the Gold Coast. We have a unique river-cruise mountain-tour package based on the electric launch which we hope to get up and running soon.”

The other exciting development for Scruffie Marine is that the CEO of Oceanvolt, a Finnish electric sail drive manufacturer, recently visited the Mount Tamborine premises and was very impressed with the new Secret 33 electric passenger launch. They have featured the boat on their Facebook page with an excellent response, and on their website. Thus, the new boat will spearhead the company’s new sales push with GRP electric and sailelectric boats.

Derek points out, “Solar electric propulsion is perfect for displacement speed boats. Simply put, it is the future. Our Secret 33 has 1.6 kilowatts of power on the canopy, enough to power it to four knots as long as the sun shines. If you are fed up with fuel costs and worried about your grandchildren’s future in a rapidly deteriorating environment, it’s the only solution.”

Derek feels that as a business owner it is his responsibility to do the best he can for customers and for his home- planet earth.

WHAT THE FUTURE HOLDS Scruffie Marine has future plans for several unique designs. Without giving too much away, Derek has a long list. “A new four-person solar-electric resort boat, a third-world sail-electric cargo or passenger boat, and a new 12-passenger sailing day-tripper boat.”

The boat building business is very rewarding for Derek. He states, “The unalloyed satisfaction from designing and building a new boat from scratch and finding that she sails beautifully is a great incentive. We’ll leave the world in a better place.”

If you are planning to build one of the Scruffie boats or any other wooden boat, Derek leaves you with this advice: “You will need patience, the continuity of ancient skills, the recognition of fact that man has always built his own things from bark huts and dugout canoes to sheds, houses and boats - it is in our genes. We need this more today than ever and so do our kids. “ 53

W E N E H ED T T A R E P HAND O RD OUTBOA

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AVAILABLE SOON AT MOST GOOD BOAT SHOPS, MARINE CENTRES & FISHING TACKLE OUTLETS PLUS ALL ROAD TECH MARINE – RTM STORES.

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Another Quality Product from Dynamic Products Corporation.

TEL: 02 - 4577 9990 • Email: dynamic@ronmarks.com AUG - OCT 2016 www.freewheeling.com.au

BOAT GOLD COAST

Impressive Engineering Improvements The XL SeaPen L o cal Gold Coast company DOCKPRO are specialists in dry-docking systems for recreational and commercial vessels. SeaPen - Advanced Dry Docking Technology is the first and only docking system of its kind in the world that works exclusively at water level with drive-in, reverse-in, side-berth and multi-entries, it makes it easier to dock your boat. Since 2004, the locally made SeaPen has been helping clients keep their boats clean and barnacle free.

In 2016, DOCKPRO released the SeaPen XL that has had some major improvements. Listening to customers, DOCKPRO re-engineered the SeaPen to make a product that was already market leading, even better. Production has doubled since releasing the XL model.

ABOUT THE SEAPEN The SeaPen incorporates a special polymer outer skin that is barnacle-proof and isolates the hull of your boat from the water, and never needs removing or cleaning.

Inside the skin is a unique rope mesh that assists in drainage and creates ventilation around the hull. Just drive your boat in, turn on the bilge pump and within a few minutes your boat will be out of the water and dry docked. The SeaPen system makes it easier to clean the hull and motor with our specifically designed walkways that fit your SeaPen perfectly.

The first prototypes of the SeaPen were installed in 1997 after a great deal of research and development, and went into full time production in 2004. Since then, the SeaPen has been consistently improved upon, thanks in many instances to feedback from our clients. In 2007, DOCKPRO was established as the exclusive sales and marketing agent for SeaPen, and are based at the Gold Coast Marine Precinct in Coomera, Queensland.

FLOATBRICKS DOCKPRO also sell and own FloatBricks - The Original.

These are great for all personal watercrafts and vessels under 6m, along with walkways and platforms.

Just jump on and go, be out on the water enjoying your jet ski or small boat in seconds. With great combinations, the FloatBricks systems make it easy to walk around your PWC or boat to clean it, and keeps your jet ski vital parts well clear of water and protected from the elements.

Floatbricks combinations are limitless - any shape, any size, anywhere. Why not turn that dead space into useable space by creating walkways between your docks, or platforms on lakes. FloatBricks modular design is practical and affordable.

TESTIMONIAL In 2007, I purchased the first side entry SeaPen to match a new Maritimo 48. After a few â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;teethingâ&#x20AC;? issues (as can be expected with a new model), the SeaPen has performed well. It was not until recently that we knew how well it worked.

I recently sold the Maritimo 48 and we slipped her for the first time in nine years for the survey inspection. We were very impressed with what we saw.

The hull and antifouling were like new - just the single original factory applied coat. So there was no antifouling build-up, of course. There was no sign of any growth and all water inlets were like new. Not a barnacle or sea worm in sight. The props could do with a polish to make them look like new again, and the metal shaft supports simply required a clean and a coat of new antifouling.

The SeaPen provided excellent fuel economy over the past nine years and the excellent hull performance of a new boat every time we used the boat. The buyer of the boat was so impressed. He also bought the SeaPen. A win-win for everyone!

I definitely had no hesitation in ordering a new SeaPen to match our slightly larger new Maritimo 50 arriving soon. The peace of mind the SeaPen provides ensures more enjoyable boating and no guilty feelings if you leave the boat for extended periods when you travel.

- Neil, Cleveland (Queensland)

Ph 5580 4465 or Local contact - Greg Jenkin 0411 393 813 Or by email to info@dockpro.com.au www.dockpro.com.au BOATGOLDCOAST.COM. AU

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BOAT GALLEY

v i e Bar + Restaurant

P

alazzo Versace Gold Coast is everything you would expect in a hotel from the world of Versace: an exclusive waterfront setting, spectacular architecture, Italian craftsmanship, extraordinary service and an ambience of pure opulence.

It is home to three award-winning restaurants of which Vie Bar + Restaurant stands out the most for us due to its breathtaking views of the yachts, the marina, and the Broadwater.

The entrees were fantastic. But there were two that stood out. The Seared Yellowfin Tuna is covered with an olive crust, avocado, mimosa eggs and pickled tomatillo. The Braised Lamb Belly is served with a tomato chutney cigar, witlof, shisho leaves, and smoked taro chips. The accompaniments looked spectacular with both dishes, and every element on both plates was perfectly paired - flavour and colour-wise.

From the second we stepped through the door, Vie Bar + Restaurant superseded all of our expectations. Vie offers a minimalistic, elegant and modern dining area - light and glamorous. It features a five-star menu, with Executive Chef David Pommier and his team constantly redefining it according to the season.

As for the main meals, two well-rounded dishes are worth special mention. The Venison Loin comes with spring onion, potato croquette, asparagus, caramelized fig and cabernet jus. The Market Fish dish is a kingfish served with bean radicchio and bouillabaisse reduction. Both were succulent meals and perfectly cooked.

The Vie menu is contemporary, with some classic French and Italian influences that offer a touch of modern pizazz. Vie has been given ‘One Hat’ by the Australian Gourmet Traveller, and has also been awarded with ‘One Wine Glass’ at the Australia’s Wine List of the Year Awards. The absolutely flawless service is clearly from highly trained staff, announcing each culinary creation to the finest detail as they arrive at the table. The wine pairing for each individual dish was also spot on and indeed commendable.

For dessert, we had the Mascarpone Espuma with beetroot and pink grapefruit sorbet, goat’s cheese marshmallow with Campari granite. It was a colourful dessert with the fresh and tangy flavours of citrus and beetroot. The sticky date sponge with caramel roasted pear, sherry vinegar ice cream, took us to a happy place.

The sherry vinegar ice cream borders on sour and rounds the sweet caramel flavours off so well, balancing the dish perfectly. Both desserts looked so beautiful that we stared at them in awe for just long enough to realise that we better dig in because they were literally melting away before our eyes.

Shortly after our drinks arrived, we were presented with an amuse-bouche share plate of Tempura Baitfish beautifully presented on a large square platter, decorated with brush strokes of squid ink, slithers of radish, celery leaves, baby capers, aioli and samphire. Samphire are the leaves of a succulent flowering plant found on dunes and beaches, also known as ‘beach bananas’, which are pickled and simply divine.

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With a spectacular view, impeccable service and a dynamic menu, Vie is an experience of pure pleasure. (Michael Von Backstrom)

AUG - OCT 2016

Get hooked at

BOAT BOAT GUIDE GALLEY

The Fish Emporium

T

he impressive make-over of The Fish Emporium at Capri on Via Roma has seafood lovers eager to work their way through the new menu.

The tasteful surroundings remain true to the outdoor balcony dining experience, while viewing the Surfers Paradise skyline - perfect for seafood lunch or dinner, or any time in between.

The Fish Emporium has something for everyone, enjoyable for family gatherings and perfect for after-work drinks or weekend catch-ups with friends and colleagues.

While the outdoor waterfront dining area offers a laid back dining experience, the new indoor trendy bar, manned by an in-house mixologist, provides a casual ambiance for having cocktails while nibbling on fresh oysters or sashimi.

If you are planning a party of fun, the private dining area is available for bookings.

The semi-secluded space allows your party to enjoy privacy while having easy access to the bar. The area has leather seating dramatically positioned under an exquisite handmade chandelier. You do need to be booked well in advance!

For gustatory delights from the sea, The Fish Emporium has an exciting menu.

Of course, there is the traditional Fish’n’Chips which comes on a wooden tray wrapped in newsprint. The long list of mouth-watering share plates offers fried, grilled and BBQ goodies. While the kids enjoy a fish burger, mum and dad can feast upon main dishes of choice fish and crustaceans. Beyond seafood, there are pastas, salad dishes and steak options, among others.

A popular dish is the New England Style Fish Chowder, served with warm bread - a creamy rich soup with generous serving of chunky pieces of seafood. One of the must-try’s and most satisfying meals is the Daily Catch, from a selection of fresh market fish cooked exactly the way you want it, and served with house tartare or lemon butter, and a choice of a side dish. A perfectly grilled barramundi or snapper with tartare sauce and a generous side of steamed broccoli or salad is highly recommended - definitely a satisfying and healthy no-frills fish dish!

The Fish Emporium is not only about master chef dishes and fish mongers. The restaurant attracts regular clients with a menu of everyday traditional classics. With honest food and real service, the dining experience is personal and friendly. The service staff are always ready to recommend and even help you pair your wine.

Offering a wide selection of the best of the seas, the new fit-out includes a retail fresh fish shop and a takeaway counter.

Highly recommended for casual dining, or a fancy romantic dinner with the city skyline as the backdrop, The Fish Emporium will get you hooked!

COME BY BOAT - 8 BERTHS PUBLIC PONTOON

BOATGOLDCOAST.COM. AU

The Fish Emporium and Edgewater Dining are located at the waterfront of Capri on Via Rome, Isle of Capri. The centre is an ideal boating destination, providing eight public berths for boaties. On land, take advantage of the ample onsite outdoor and undercover car parks.

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THAI I

BOAT GALLEY

SMOKED FISH SALAD & FISH SKIN CRACKLING

don’t recall fish ever being served with skin on when I was growing up. Back then, filleting meant skinning fish too. How times have changed! When cooked correctly, fish skin gets a delicious crackle adding great texture to soft flaky fillets. Its flavour is gentle yet intense.

Here, the fish ‘crackle’ is a tasty textural contrast to a spicy Thai-style salad.

Ingredients (Serves 2 people)

CRISPY SKIN: FRESH FISH SKIN GHEE (CLARIFIED BUTTER) SALAD: 200 GR HOT SMOKED FISH, FLAKED 3 GOLDEN SHALLOTS, PEELED AND SLICED 3 CHILLIES, RED, YELLOW AND GREEN, SLICED 4 KAFFIR LIME LEAVES, FINELY SLICED FINELY GRATED RIND FROM ½ LIME 2 TBSP CHOPPED CORIANDER STEMS 1 PINK GRAPEFRUIT, PEELED AND SEGMENTED 2 TSP FISH SAUCE PINCH WHITE PEPPER

Method

Gently combine the first 6 salad ingredients. Set aside.

Segment grapefruit and set aside. While segmenting, catch juices from grapefruit in a small Bowl and swirl in fish sauce and pepper. Set aside.

Cut skin into strips or triangle shapes. Heat ghee in a non-stick pan and add skin pieces. Cook for 2 mins each side and remove. Drain skin crackling on paper towels. Gently mix grapefruit into salad. Drizzle with grapefruit juice dressing.

Arrange fish skin crackling on top of salad, and serve immediately.

Sally Jenyns is a resident seafood cook and presenter on Channel 7’s Creek to Coast. She is the author of The Coastwatch Cookbook available at coastwatch.com.au.

*Note: Ghee can be substituted with coconut oil.

L

o cated on Ephraim Island, Artichoke Restaurant is one of the region’s most standout dining venues. In these fast-moving times, it is very gratifying to come across chefs who challenge themselves, their produce and traditions by stepping it up a few notches, making them inventors, trend-setters and leading the way ahead of the following pack - this is the Artichoke standard.

Artichoke owner, operator and executive chef, Grant Madgwick, takes food and the dining experience to the next level, reinventing the foundations of beautiful cuisine and presentations. The menu incorporates fusion of mainly French, Italian, Indian and Asian cuisines in almost a molecular gastronomy or modernist cuisine cooking style. It is good to see that Grant and his team have not taken their experiments to the extreme (no Bunsen burners here!).

He incorporates very modern experimental cooking styles and explores new flavour combinations, enhancement and presentation, revolutionizing traditional methods into a new sensory experience with a modern edge.

All dishes on Artichoke’s three-page menu - roughly twenty dishes without the daily specials - are roughly 250g in weight making them slightly larger than the average entrée. This encourages a multi-dish dining experience second to none. Most patrons enjoy up to six, or even seven, of these unique dishes during one sitting, taking them on a mind-blowing gastronomical adventure.

I started off my journey with the Prawn Korma, king prawns served with lychee risotto, vodka cauliflower smear, and homemade gnocci in a korma sauce.

Next was the Squid Ink Risotto Vindaloo Prawns, also a king prawns dish in a rich vindaloo sauce with lychee, coconut, cream and risotto with a splash of squid ink. Both dishes were so beautifully presented that I first ate with our eyes for a few minutes - as one does here.

I then moved on to the next selections. The 17 Hour Slow-Cooked Beef rested on homemade tortellini with duck, beef, squab, quail, port, mostarda fruit glaze and Persian feta. The Duck al Orange came with vodka cauliflower smear and sweet potato croquette served with grand mariner, contreau, mostarda fruit glaze, baby red grapes and green grapes.

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As if that was not enough, I asked the waiter to surprise me with final two savoury dishes before moving to the sweets. One was the Egyptian Breaded Prawns resting on chickpea puree and served with spinach and lime aioli.

The other was the Foie Gras served with baby pea risotto, Japanese scallops (gratinated at the table) and julienne Asian seaweed, splashed with port chocolate and beetroot jus.

For dessert, we were in for a treat with Sticky Fig Pudding with walnut, hazelnut and macadamia nut crumble topped with cognac butterscotch sauce and homemade vanilla bean ice cream.

Each and every dish was absolutely gastronomical and uniquely different. The colours, textures and flavour combinations took me on an amazing culinary roller-coaster ride. And if only I could, I would have worked my way right through the whole menu. They will definitely see me again soon - before the menu changes - to take care of some unfinished business. I strongly urge everyone to do the same. (Michael Von Backstrom)

AUG - OCT 2016

BOAT GALLEY

Glass Dining & Lounge Bar I

f the perfect backdrop with award-winning dining and impeccable service is what you’re after, look no further. Glass Dining & Lounge Bar at the Marina Mirage is the answer. The fully stocked cocktail bar, extensive wine list and stunning sunset views are the ideal complement for dining inside the restaurant or al fresco on the deck overlooking the marina.

And then, there’s the food. Ben Armstrong, executive chef, creates magic in the Glass kitchen with his team of passionate chefs. Ben adapts the menu with each change of season and presents an inspiring range of fresh seasonal produce, finest meats and fresh local seafood.

We were welcomed wholeheartedly and escorted to our table where we spent our first few minutes digesting the spectacular view over this majestic marina.

We decided on - and were very impressed by - both the Wild Mushroom & Truffle Croquettes and the Tempura Zucchini Flowers. The croquettes had a thin, dark and crispy exterior, with an absolute surprising burst of rich wild mushroom and truffle fluffiness from within - perfectly accompanied by the aioli and balsamic glaze. Cutting into the zucchini flowers, stuffed with Meredith fresh goat curd and ricotta, and drizzled with a light orange caramel, the knife fell away through the soft curd filling after breaking through the golden tempura.

This very delicate and light dish has flavours so fine that only the best produce could pull off. Both entrees were absolute masterpieces. We loved the contrast between the “beauty and the beast”.

Torn between so many mouthwatering choices for our mains, we finally decided on a fish dish and a meat dish. The New Zealand Sole Vongole came with a light sauce of olive oil and garlic, including fried capers and lemon butter sauce. The combination of the fragile sole with the lemon butter is fantastically delicate. And although adding the garlic directly to the fish would not be bad, Ben masterfully introduces the more robust flavour of garlic through the addition of the clams, leaving the sole light and wispy. The 250g SA Grassland’s Angus Eye Fillet was simply perfect. It was sealed almost crispy while still a very juicy medium temperature inside - so tender that I could have cut it with a spoon.

The planning and attention to detail at Glass make the difference between a good dish and one you will reflect on for time to come. (Michael Von Backstrom)

The range of different luxe spaces at Glass Dining & Lounge Bar makes an ideal venue for events of any nature - big or small - from private intimate dinner parties, wedding or birthday celebrations to large corporate functions for up to 220 guests.

Platters

serves up to 4 people

BOAT CATERING MENU Canapes

SERVES 30 pieces // $100

cold seafood platter .............. $120

hot seafood platter ................. $150

oyster platter by dozen ......... $42

prawn platter ............................. $70 1kg local whole cooked school prawns, cocktail sauce, aioli, lemon salt & pepper Byron Bay jersey cow haloumi, garlic, chilli sweet soy, crispy shallots

antipasti platter ....................... $49 capsicum & feta, mediterranean marinated olives, san danielle prosciutto, pickled vegetables

goats curd & ricotta, orange caramel spoon of japanese style deconstractued tuna sushi, roasted wakame, pickled ginger, white anchovies, furikake

Paninis

served individualLY // $21 tomato relish, melted brie smoked salmon, lettuce, tomato, capers, caesar dressing san danielle prosciutto, mozzarella, rocket, tomato, aioli Moet Experience Add a bottle of Moet Ice Imperial with strawberries, lychees & mint for a special price of $130!

cheese platter ......................... $49 triple brie, aged cheddar, blue vein served with grapes, dried fruits, crackers, nuts, honey

Salads served individuaLLY // $21 mixed leaves salad, house dressing broccoli, avocado, feta, quinoa, sesame, pumkin seeds beetroot, feta, green peas, mint, hazelnut dukkah

caesar salad w crispy speck, turkish croutons, poached egg, shaved parmesan & anchovy caper dressing w your choice of: Chicken OR Smoked Salmon Orders must be placed by 5pm for next day delivery • Minimum food orders of $150 Call 07 55271009 or Email info@glassrestaurant.com.au • Packaging & Insulation Fee of $5

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BOAT GALLEY

Tipplers Licensed Café I

fell in love with an old favourite all over again. Thanks to Rebecca, Scott and their team who have been serving up soul-warming meals to the boating community, local families and visitors to the Gold Coast since its reopening in 2012. Like many Gold Coasters, I’ve had a longstanding love affair with Tipplers Café. It may not be as flamboyant as other restaurants on the Gold Coast, but in my view, it definitely has the most idyllic and picturesque address: South Stradbroke - what a perfect boatie eatery! A family-friendly destination with live entertainment, great Vittoria coffee and delicious food while totally engulfed by nature.

With every cruise to South Straddie, I am forever drawn to Tipplers due to all it has to offer, whether you’re dropping anchor, pulling up on the sand or mooring. Children can play on the sand and in the water, and run around on the island, while mom and dad sit back, enjoy the entertainment and soak up the nature while eating great food. It is indeed a very relaxed atmosphere where time almost stands still.

The Café is open seven days a week and offer an impressive range of menu options for breakfast, brunch, lunch and dinner. They have some great seafood options like fresh local snapper prepared in a number of ways, calamari, and let us not forget the Fisherman’s Basket. Chicken salad, schnitzels, parma’s, buffalo wings, beef steak sandwiches, eye fillet steaks, pastas, nachos - if something doesn’t grab you here, you’re not hungry, because they have definitely covered all the bases.

The Traditional Beef Hamburger & Chips is a serious plate of food and worth every cent right down to the last bite - that is, if you can muster it. A large toasted sesame bun topped with fresh salad greens, sliced tomato, a sizable crispy-yet-juicy beef patty, beetroot, onion and a pickle all served with a generous portion of fat chips.

Rebecca and her team have it down to a fine art because that’s what I call a sincere, unpretentious burger with a capital “B”.

Overall, the laidback experience - pulling up on the sand with the sun on your back and soaking up the utopian tropical island beach atmosphere with the entertainment in the background, some ice cold refreshments, and then having a burger - make you want to dig your toes in the sand and simply bask under the shade of a huge palm tree. The whole shebang is something I highly recommend to everyone. This should be one of your bucket list activities, and remains one that I’m not ticking off just yet. (Michael Von Backstrom)

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AUG - OCT 2016

BOAT JOURNEY

South Stradbroke

H E R I TA G E A N D R E C R E AT I O N

By Paige Mengel and Roselle Tenefrancia

mall islands always have that certain charm S that is unique. The natural proximity to open waters and the isolation somehow bring us peace of mind and a sense of being in the wilderness.

The Gold Coast is home to islands that boaties are privileged enough to visit at the drop of a hat. South Stradbroke Island is one of them. From a bird’s eye view, South Stradbroke Island appears to hug the golden coastline that protects the glorious Gold Coast and its inhabitants. With the southernmost tip beginning opposite Biggera Waters and slowly creeping north to Crousoe Island over a stretch of 22 kilometers, South Stradbroke Island is an extension of the Gold Coast most enjoyed by boaties. From the amazing lifestyle aspects and dynamics of living on the small island to environmental concerns, the island has an amazing history.

HISTORY Stradbroke Island was one island before 1896. The islands were divided with the breakthrough of the ocean at Jumpinpin in the mid-1880s, when in the morning of September 3, 1894, the barque, Cambus Wallace, ran aground in heavy seas. During the salvage operation, cargo was detonated. Combine this with wild storms and tidal seas, erosion of the sand dunes along the spit of land caused the island to divide into two. After this time period, there became two islands known as North and South Stradbroke Islands, currently under Redland Shire and City of Gold Coast councils, respectively.

Aboriginal people have occupied Stradbroke Island and some of the Bay Islands for the last 6,000 years, at least. The original inhabitants know the island as Minjerribah, meaning island in the sun, in the Quandamooka language. In July 1827, the island was named The Isle of Stradbroke, in honour of Captain Rous, the second son of the Earl of Stradbroke, captain of the ship Rainbow that came to survey the area in the early 1900s.

ENVIRONMENT South Stradbroke Island is one of only 15 sand islands in the world. It is home to a conservation park encompassing 1,800 hectares of land. Unlike North Stradbroke, which has high species and ecosystem diversity, South Stradbroke has lower diversity. It is just a few metres above sea level and only 2.5 kilometres wide.

However, despite its low diversity assessment, the island still requires protection. The South Stradbroke Island Regional Park Management Statement (2015) states, “Marine protected areas of the South Stradbroke Island Regional Park are located within a habitat protection zone and a marine national park zone. A habitat protection zone provides for conservation while still allowing reasonable use of the area to occur. A marine national park zone is a ‘no-take’ area and extractive activities like fishing or collecting are not allowed without a permit. Any person wishing to conduct activities in this zone must comply with the Marine Parks Act 2004.”

The document also lists 12 flora and fauna species that are of conservation significance, one of them, the eastern curlew being identified as critically endangered.

HERITAGE The Aboriginal people, particularly those with connections to the original Stradbroke Island and the Moreton Bay region (the Kombumerri and Quandamooka peoples) have identified significant relations to South Stradbroke Island. The original residents conducted fishing and other cultural activities in the area. In fact, an Aboriginal shell midden (a pile of discarded shells) sits on the sand dunes at an area known to the boaties as The Bedrooms, according to a local anthropologist and photographer, Michael Aird. He has been documenting the stories of his Aboriginal ancestors

through his research, and provides support to the Aboriginal artists through the South Stradbroke Artist Camp held by the Gold Coast City Council annually since 2014.

RECREATION South Stradbroke Island, also known as “South Straddie”, is a tourist destination and a home to local residents.

The island and its safe surrounding waters and its surfing opportunities are popular among the locals.

Its proximity to the mainland and its accessibility on the Broadwater provide a relaxing destination for boaties, while surfers are privileged to enjoy the rolling waves on the ocean side close to the Seaway.

But while the island is more popular as a place to visit for a day-trip or camping, it is worth noting that there are actually more than 100 residents living there (2011 Census). The residents are living “off the grid”, as their water and power supplies are not connected to the mainland. This poses both the challenge and the appeal of living on the island.

There are campgrounds run by the Gold Coast City Council with basic amenities, and a resort with hotel and villa accommodations available for visitors. In the Local Area Plan for the island, the Council has recognised that “[T]here is evidence to suggest that the increasing visitor, vehicle and boat numbers are close to, and possibly already exceeding, the sustainability of the Island’s land and water environment.” Although there is no official statement regarding this problem, it is simply a reminder that users (both residents and visitors) need to be mindful of the island’s environment and cultural values.

The recreational and tourism value of South Straddie cannot be denied. It is an island that still offers an authentic eco-tourism experience. But more importantly, its ecological and cultural values are significant aspects that need equal recognition and protection.

Photos by Nic Welch and Roselle Tenefrancia

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BOAT OPINION

Round Two: On the Two-Stroke Engine Ban In the November-January 2016 edition of Boat Gold Coast, we featured a story on the upcoming legislation regarding two-stroke engines in Australia (Is It The End of Two-Stroke Outboards?). A reader sent us his thoughts about the impending two-stroke engine ban. We asked a representative from the group that is lobbying for low-emission engines, Blue Sky Alliance, to respond. Here are both their comments.

Dear Editor, A blanket ban on two-stroke engines would prejudice small engine owners. I sail a 600kg sail boat for racing and cruising, consuming one litre of fuel per month for the 4hp! The problem with four-stroke is that they are too heavy for race boats, usually 50% heavier for same HP and are not suitable for a rollicking vessel. We only use an inbuilt fuel tank, again to keep weight down. The pollution and fuel consumption are negligible. Why not exclude under 10hp from this draconian idea?

Cheers Dr R. John Kearney OAM Elliott 7 “Aqueous Humour”

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Dear Dr John, I hear your angst and would like to invite you to sit back, pick up a cold drink and have a look at some of the equally cold hard facts. And then, I have a solution that should work for you.

But first: It’s not a blanket ban on two-strokes. It’s a ban of any high-emission engine. Ok, yes, the average carby two-stroke has 1100% more harmful emissions than a fourstroke. As an economist I can say that the independent Cost Benefit Analysis shows a savings to the Health budget of $240m p.a. from regulating all small engines. Goodness knows how much human suffering that represents!

“Usually 50% heavier for same HP”- From the outboard database, the average 4hp two-stroke is 20.0kg, and the mean four-stroke weighs 25.58kg. So that’s 5.6kg more or about how much I am overweight. In any case, it’s 28% more on average (not 50%) and less if you shop for a light four-stroke. Across the range, clean engines are around 20% heavier.

In addition, a four-stroke uses 30% less fuel so you can get the same range from 7 litres of fuel as you would now from 10 litres. That alone will save you 2kg and some could save more weight by having a smaller fuel tank.

I understand that weight is an issue in racing, so have you considered an electric outboard? An engine 3hp equivalent including battery can weigh only 13.4kg.

“Pollution and fuel consumption are negligible” - Again, let’s look at the hard facts from the manufacturers themselves (and audited by the USA EPA). The average emissions (HC+NOx) from a 4hp two-stroke is 0.76kg/hr and the four-stroke 0.068. That’s typical - the two-stroke has 11 times the pollutants per hour.

As you say, with a 4hp run for 10 minutes a month, the difference is small. Your pollution production is very low.

But go to a shop and stand staring at two 4hp outboards.

Let’s say both will have a life span of 500 hours. The twostroke will contribute 345kg more pollutants over its life if that’s the one you choose today.

Yes, your usage is low, but can you suggest how to draft a law that gives you an exemption but not the fisherman doing 120 hours a year? It’s just not practical. It’s even less practical when you consider that the set of laws will cover all non-road petrol engines from mowers to chain saws and generators to outboards.

“Why not exempt under 10hp?” - Because the engines under 10hp are the worst polluters. Compare a famous brand of outboards: an 8hp two-stroke and a 150hp fourstroke. Which do you think has more emissions per hour?

Yep, the 8hp has more - in fact 59% more emissions than the 150hp four-stroke. The difference is astounding!

(Source: USA EPA Audited certification database).

When? The laws were due to be before Parliament in June 2016. But the election has thrown around the timing. After a recent visit (mid election) to Canberra, I still consider the two-step 2017/2019 implementation is likely and that the legislation has such a momentum and wide support that even a change of Minister won’t stop the legislation.

“Draconian” - Australia is 19 years behind the USA in regulating small engines. We are behind EU, Canada, Switzerland, Japan, Turkey, India and China. Sailors have a better reputation for being environmentally responsible than fishers like me. So don’t you think it’s embarrassing that we will be five years behind China?

Some Solutions? Keep your two-stroke and maintain it well. Or buy a spare two-stroke now and mothball it. Or choose to do the right thing and buy an electric outboard. Or buy a lighter four-stroke and carry less fuel.

Gary Fooks (www.blueskyalliance.com.au)

AUG - OCT 2016

BOAT GOLD COAST

WHITTLEY BOATS MAKE SENSE W

Whittley CR 2180

Whittley SL 22

Whittley Cruisers (CR) just make sense. They are compact enough to tow and are powered by an array of efficient powerplants. They are your home away from home that provide waterfront views that stretch on forever. All the creature comforts are at your disposal and cleverly disappear when not in use. Cruisers are available in a range of sizes to suit every budget and lifestyle. From the compact CR 2080, to their floating apartment, the CR 2800, each model has a versatile layout and huge breadth of ability. Every member of your crew is catered for and no one is left out.

The CR 2180 is a true overnighter - a weekend live-aboard cruiser easily towed by a larger family car. Conceived by Whittley’s in-house design studio in response to customer demand, every effort has been made to optimise space, strength, size and weight. A unique hull arrangement of chines and strakes provides improved lift, reduced drag and superior handling, not to mention stability at rest.

Whittley CR 2380

At 6.5m, the SL 22 is perfect for stalking big bays for snapper or spending long days out wide chasing tuna or marlin. Or perhaps a long haul to a distant reef floats your boat. Whatever your prey, this is your weapon.

Confident and sure-footed, the SL 22 is easily towed behind a big family of six and capable of handling itself in a fistfight with Mother Nature. Standard-fit trim tabs allow fingertip control of the boat’s dynamics, but it handles just fine without them.

hittley has been an iconic boating brand of the Australian marine industry for over 60 years.

Since 1953 it has become a benchmark for quality cruising, fishing, ski and pleasure boats that people admire and wish to own.

Whittley Sea Legends (SL) are the dream crossover, balancing the needs of a proper fishing boat without compromising on the creature comforts of home.

They put the adventure in boating where you can take a couple of mates out for a day (or two) of hard core fishing, yet versatile to spend a weekend away with the family cruising the Broadwater.

Check out a brief overview of some of the most popular boats in the Whittley range ideally suited to the South East Queensland boating lifestyle.

Whittley CR 2080 Inspired by generations of Whittley Cruisers, the CR 2080 embodies all the qualities of its larger running mates in a boat that delivers comfortable live-aboard accommodation in a remarkably compact package. On the water, the 2080 delivers a classic Whittley blend of sure-footed handling, exceptional stability and ride comfort, yet is easily towed by a six-cylinder family sedan.

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Retaining classic Whittley hallmarks, like the solid curved sliding cabin door that opens into a large V-berth cabin, the CR 2380 is built on a seagoing platform that is rugged and resilient. The variable deadrise hull provides a smooth, dry ride and affords ample storage options.

A further large storage compartment runs down the starboard side of the cockpit and forms an L-shaped lounge, which converts into a double bed and uses the dinette table as an infill. The optional moulded targa bar acts as mounting point for antennae, navigation lamps and full covers and clears.

Whittley CR 2600 The CR 2600 is a mid-size cruiser with maximum potential.

If you’ve dreamed of owning a family-sized weekender, but mooring, antifouling and constant maintenance are not on your agenda, this could be your passport to a lifetime of memories. With all the style and flair of its larger sibling, the CR 2600 represents a milestone in family boating, offering an edgy yet versatile boating experience. 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 2.5m beam, the CR 2600 is both spacious and innovative.

Whittley SL 26 A finalist in TrailerBoat magazine’s Australia’s Greatest Boats contest in 2012, the big SL 26 is a thoroughbred born to tackle Mother Nature head on and return with its dignity - and passengers - intact. Powered by a choice of Yamaha Four Stroke outboards, or petrol or diesel sterndrive, the SL 26 pampers its crew of up to seven and will comfortably fits four big blokes in the main cockpit without any intimacy issues. With the creature comforts Whittley is renowned for, including toilet, galley and two showers, the SL 26 features a fully-lined and upholstered cabin, with an oval table that drops down to complete an enormous V-berth.

Even with its luxuries, the boat’s plumbed live bait tank, stainless steel rod holders, self-draining cockpit, targa bar and rod storage define it as a sportfisher.

Northside Marine has been the Queensland dealer of Whittley boats for over 35 years.

For further information on the Whittley range, visit Northside Marine at 2294 Sandgate Rd, Boondall, Qld (only 15 mins north of the Brisbane Airport). www.nsmarine.com.au

(07) 3265 8000 63

BOAT GUIDE

DIYBOAT

MAINTENANCE 4 BASIC TIPS

By Jonathon Rodgers, Etiquette Marine

I

t does not take much to keep your vessel in the best possible condition. By keeping your pride and joy in great working order, you will reduce your chances of a breakdown, while slowing the depreciation of your boat. If you apply some basic do-it-yourself rules, your vessel can remain in the same cosmetic appearance as it was when you first set your eyes on it.

There are many simple maintenance aspects that power boat and yacht owners overlook.

The consequence of not looking after your boat can affect how often you spend time on the water and, in some cases, increase your overall maintenance costs.

The general rule of thumb is that you will spend 10 percent of the value of your boat on maintenance costs, including mechanical needs and upkeeping the appearance of the boat, which both directly affect the resale value. No matter the boat size— five feet or 150 feet—proactive owners should consider these preventive maintenance tips.

Wash downs The marine environment is one of the harshest surroundings. If your boat is wet berthed, it will increase the corrosive nature of salt water and the elements. Therefore, it is essential that you rinse your vessel after every use and wash down with a ph-neutral biodegradable boat wash. Salt on metal fittings start the corrosion process and once dry, salt becomes abrasive on your boat’s gelcoat or paint. Also, consider using a dock water filter or softener to make sure the water you are using is of the highest quality, as this will ensure a spot-free rinse.

Tip: After arriving home from a long trip, your boat will be covered in salt. Add a splash of vinegar to your wash bucket and this will help cut through the salt.

Vinegar is also a great alternative mould remover.

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Engine room and bilge Your engine room and bilges are the heart of your vessel. If you keep them dry and clean, it will be easy to spot any service requirement issues, such as oil, fuel and belt dust. Observing an issue early will reduce your chances of an on-water emergency and often save you money in the future. Any water that collects within your hull, either fresh or salty, is not good for your boat. If you are able, have a taste of the water in your bilges. This will give you an indication of where the water is coming from and help you to isolate the source of the problem.

Tip: Before filling water tanks on your boat, run your hose for a minute or two to clean out the line. Hoses sitting in the hot sun are often prone to growing bacteria.

at a high rate and often grow on running gear and intakes. Marine growth can have effects on engine performance and fuel efficiency, while increasing downtime on your machinery. The more you use your boat, the less growth will occur. Your antifoul paint, while repelling underwater aquatic life, is designed to expel marine growth while underway.

Tip: If you are not using your boat, schedule a diver to regularly clean your hull approximately every six to 12 weeks.

Keeping regular checks and maintenance on your boat will keep it in good working order and will provide you with trouble-free boating when you are out on the water. Happy Boating!

DIY Regular Checks Before heading out on the water, take a few minutes to have a look over your engine room to become familiar with your ideal coolant and oil levels. Check your belt tension. Observe any signs of leaking. It is advisable to lay down oil absorbing pads, as this helps to identify where and when an issue may have occurred. Additionally, check your sea strainer regularly for debris, as fragments can be sucked into the cooling system and restrict performance.

Tip: If you are not using your boat for extended periods of time, you should at least start the engines every week or fortnight. This keeps the water flowing around the engine and minimises the corrosion. At the minimum, consider taking the boat for a run once a month to ensure the engine(s) heat up to running temperature.

Marine Growth The underside of your hull is not regularly seen, so it is often overlooked and forgotten. If you are not using your boat, marine organisms will start growing

BEFORE

AFTER

BEFORE

AFTER

Although the above tips are based on actual experience, they do not replace professional advice from your authorized service agent. Always check the owner’s manual for specific instructions that pertain to your specific boat brand and model.

AUG - OCT 2016

BOAT GOLD COAST

CANAL WALLS MAINTENANCE ADVICE Walls are failing all over Southeast Queensland due to lack of maintenance, tide, erosion, flood damage and time. Your wall protects your property.

But who is looking after your wall?

IF YOU HAVE A WATERFRONT REVETMENT WALL - PLEASE ASK YOURSELF THESE QUESTIONS: • How long has it been since the wall has been checked for movement?

• Have you noticed any changes in cracks? (number, length, width) • Are there areas of subsidence behind the wall?

• Are your weep holes still functioning and allowing water to flow easily?

• Is the wall vertical, or beginning to lean or slump?

Chances are, your answer to all or most of these is ‘No’ or ‘I don’t know’.

Your wall requires regular maintenance to ensure it remains functional for as long as possible.

REGULAR MAINTENANCE AND MONITORING Just like you need to visit a dentist regularly to keep your teeth healthy, so too you need to get your wall checked to keep it as healthy and functional as possible for as long as possible. Every wall should be inspected annually. Measurement of cracks or panel subsidence should be taken, and photos and data stored about the issues presented. Weep holes should be cleaned out, decalcified and new filters installed. Joints should be checked for sealant.

Annual inspection of your wall ensures you know if your wall has moved, or is allowing material through (subsidence evident) and cracking. It will also help you check if the water behind the wall is escaping properly, thus minimising pressure behind the wall.

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UNCOVERED TOE The design of all walls requires the foot or toe to be covered. This will mean either beach re-profiling that is, using your sand - or a rock top-up. By pulling sand back up we are able to return your beach to the designed profile. The beach re-profiling or rock armouring is a preventative measure against erosion of your waterfront property by maintaining the support against your revetment wall.

SUBSIDING OR ROTATING PANELS Where panels of the wall have subsided or slumped, it may be necessary to dig the soil from behind the wall and reinstating gravel and geo filters. During this process, realigning and securing the panel will occur under an engineer’s guidance.

SUBSIDENCE Subsidence typically occurs when the material from behind the wall finds a way to come forward. When weep hole filters fail, or joints lose their sealant, or footing widens or cracks, or construction boltholes are not sealed, small amounts of sand or gravel are deposited every time the tide goes out. Over time, this leads to subsidence behind the wall. This can be catastrophic if left unmanaged not to mention the safety issue of having voids and suck-ins suddenly appearing.

WHEN WALLS FAIL Unfortunately, all walls have a lifespan. Floods and tide will eventually win. When a wall is no longer viable, the owner must begin the process of installing a new wall.

We can guide you seamlessly through this project.

From Council and DEHP documentation, to engineer visits and reports to installation of a new wall.

If your wall has subsidence issues behind it, it is recommended that this be attended to immediately.

We now offer a sand pumping service where sand slurry is pushed into the void until it is not only filled but also until it is compacted down.

It should be noted that homeowners with concrete pathways behind the wall, often don’t realize their material loss is even occurring. We now offer installation of inspection points to allow quick access to the under side of the slab and to allow quick and relatively inexpensive access and correction to any loss of material.

Sovereign Island revetment wall fail

In these cases, we will contact an engineer who will design a wall to suit your requirements and use your current canal design. We will submit all necessary paperwork and permits into place to satisfy EPA, Council and engineering stipulations. Only then do we remove the old wall and install the new one according to engineer’s plans.

A clogged weep hole no longer functioning.

The same weep hole after cleaning and decalcifying.

Water now flowing freely

Gold Coast Barges are experts at repairing and maintaining waterway revetment walls. By accessing the job from the water, your house and property will feel minimal impact and your privacy will not disturbed.

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BOAT GUIDE FEATURE

Spear me the details

Spearfishing on the Gold Coast

Interview with Brendan Taylor and Martin Wilson

A

freediver prepares his descent into deeper waters. His eyes constantly looking out for the fish. He hides behind the rocks. He holds his breath. He waits. A fish swims by. He aims. He fires the speargun. He is right on target. He has caught the fish he was looking for.

Imagine the drama as it unfolds when the hunter finds the hunted - under water! This is called spearfishing.

WHAT IS SPEARFISHING? Spearfishing is an ancient method of fishing. Some cultures still primarily use it to catch fish in rivers and streams using sharpened sticks. Although modern day spearfishing as a sport does not see spears used, the same thrill and the same tactics are necessary to ensure the catch.

“The real difference between fishing and spearfishing is the motivation of the outcome,” says Brendan Taylor, a local spearfisherman who had his first spearing experience when he was 15. “When I go fishing I go simply for pleasure, always on a catch and release basis. However, when spearfishing I will go to selectively choose what I will be eating. I also choose to spearfish or freedive for the thrill. There’s nothing like diving with dolphins, turtles, sharks, rays and on the odd and very special occasion, whales.”

As a sport, it differs from conventional fishing.

“Spearfishing is a physically demanding sport and you catch more fish,” states Martin Wilson, another spearfishing aficionado who has been doing it for 15 years. He further describes the thrill he gets from the sport, when diving deep for that big fish.

“With water pressure doubling every 10 metres, a diver gets a sense of euphoria when diving deep because of the high oxygen concentration created by the compression of the air in the diver’s lungs at depth. Cruising around at 10 metres and deeper, and looking for big fish is a real thrill!”

In Queensland, no fishing license is required to spearfish. However, only freediving is allowed. Spearfishing using scuba gear is illegal.

DANGERS AND CHALLENGES “In the 15 years of spear fishing, I have: almost blacked out from shallow water blackout several times; been in a shark feeding frenzy at dusk pinned to rocks unable to move; been tangled in fishing line underwater and had to cut myself free while running out of air; and, caught in a rip and dragged out to sea several times,” Martin shares.

As an extreme sport, dangers are present in spearfishing. In freediving alone, there are already dangers to the body, such as a shallow water blackout. Martin explains, “As the diver approaches the surface, the expanding air in the divers lungs can actually draw oxygen out of the bloodstream into the lungs bringing a risk of passing out due to low oxygen concentration in the blood.”

Other dangers to life are close encounters with wildlife. Brendan remembers their encounter with the “men in grey suits” (sharks), two to four metres long, which started moving erratically around them as soon as they jumped in the water. “We decided to abort

and head back to the shallower reefs. That got the heart going that’s for sure!”

To lower the risks of these dangers, both Brendan and Martin recommend diving with a dive buddy.

“Dive with a dive buddy that you trust and has similar diving capabilities,” advises Brendan.

GEAR AND EQUIPMENT Spearfishing gear and equipment depend on the species being targeted and the quality of the water where you fish.

Speargun. Brendan suggests to use a short gun (maybe one metre) in dirty waters (5m - 15m visibility) and longer one (1.2m - 1.4m) in clear water (more than 20m visibility) I have a 1.4 railgun and a 1.2 roller gun. The longer a gun is, the harder it is to track through the water.

Martin recommends a European-designed spear gun with a long barrel for Southeast Queensland. “You need range, which means a long gun and plenty of rubber power. Smaller guns are OK if you’re sneaking around rocks or need to swing a gun around in dirty water, but inevitably range brings a lot more fish to the dinner table, especially in offshore reefs.”

Flasher. A flasher is used to attract pelagic species.

Wetsuit and Gloves/Booties. Using wetsuits, gloves and booties help the diver stay warm and to protect against cuts and abrasions from underwater obstacles, such as cave walls, floors, etc. A wetsuit that is pleasantly warm will ensure the best dive times are achieved.

Fins. Long fins give more propulsion with very minimal energy exerted.

A diver wants to get to the negatively buoyant depth as quickly as possible to allow gravity to pull him deeper rather than having to use fins.

Mask and Snorkel. Use the most comfortable mask you can find. This may or may not be the most expensive. It just has to feel comfortable on the face without leaking.

Weight Belt. A weight belt is required while free diving to allow a diver to move deeper in the water column more easily. It is very important that you use the correct amount of weight.

To set your weight properly you should float from 0 to 10m deep.

After 10m you should start to sink. The aim is to be neutrally buoyant at the depth that you are hunting. This is to conserve energy - that is, not continuously finning towards the bottom while stalking fish.

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AUG - OCT 2016

BOAT FEATURE

Knives. Always take at least two knives. For killing fish, a dagger (double edged knife) is best. For going through large fish sculls, a Phillips head screw driver is a good alternative. Entanglement underwater is best resolved by quickly cutting everything that you are tangled in with a very sharp knife.

Floats and Float Lines. Floats show boats on water that there are divers in the water. They also allow the fish you might catch to be kept high in the water column, away from wobbegongs and other scavengers, as well as sharks. Once you shoot a fish, you may simply let go of the gun, return to your float, and fight the fish from the surface.

“NO SHARKS, NO FISH.” A saying that both Brendan and Martin believe in.

“Sharks are there whether I like them or not,” says Brendan. “They have stolen fish, they have harassed me, but that’s all part of the fun I suppose.”

“Sharks are after what a spearfisherman is after a nice feed of fish. Most small and medium sized sharks will not hassle spearfishermen too much.

However they can become a problem if there are struggling fish in the water,” relates Martin.

When it comes to sharks, Brendan strongly advises, “Never ever shoot one. For me I think it’s a bad karma thing. I have prodded them away before but would never pull the trigger on one.” When faced with a shark that seems threatening, Martin has this advice. “If you are concerned about the behaviour of a shark (erratic swimming behaviour, including swooping in close, etc.), you should point your spear gun at the shark. Almost all fish and sharks do not like having a spear gun pointed at them and will respond be moving out of the line of the gun.

Always look at a shark, never let it see that you are not looking at it. It is best not to ascend to take a breath if a shark is in the process of swooping in to check you out. It may respond as if you are trying to escape from its presence, and trigger it to attack.”

WHAT ARE THE DANGERS OF A DIVE BUDDY WHEN SPEAR FISHING? Brendan: I always have a dive buddy that I trust, so this means he takes all precautions to not shoot me I suppose. Don’t dive at the same time. Don’t ever load a gun or point a gun at a person.

Martin: He might shoot you accidentally, scare the fish away, or shoot a shark which then bites you in anger (yes this does happen).

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“Spears are for Zulus; spear guns are for spear fishermen.” – Martin TIPS AND TECHNIQUES Brendan: For pelagic fish, use a flasher, and dive bomb unsuspecting fish, or dive and stand up tall on the bottom. For others, I generally just lay on the bottom for as long as I can for a fish to come in for a look.

The more you dive/spearfish the better you become. Knowing what to look for (structure) and habits of fish while hunting is key.

Martin: Hide around rocky areas underwater, holding your breath, and waiting for something big to swim past—good in dirty to clear water.

Actively move along the known haunts of desirable fish (hunt) with the spear gun pointing in the direction you are swimming, with the aim of taking a fish by surprise.

Use burley to attract fish. This is particularly effective near an underwater structure. The fish are drawn into the vicinity (and range) of the spear fisherman.

Train to hold your breath. Get to know your gear really well. Don’t shoot at a fish unless you are sure of hitting it; otherwise you may miss, and then have lost the next opportunity. Reloading a spear gun takes time and can spook nearby fish.

MYTHS DEBUNKED Common misconceptions, “that we shoot everything we see,” according to Brendan, are perceptions influenced by history. Martin says, “In the 1960s, there were reports of spear fisherman taking large unnecessary catches of fish, or spearing big old fish that are not useful as a food source. This has happened in the past, but has also happened with line fisherman. This is generally not the case today, for both spear fisherman and line fisherman.”

Spearfishing is very conservational because as “you can select exactly what individual fish you wish to target,” clarifies Martin. “Other forms of fishing such as line fishing are essentially active trapping, where you cannot control what individual fish you catch, and therefore have less control over the effect you have on the environment.”

Brendan also shares, “Some of the ‘linos’ (rod and reel fisherman) dislike the idea of spearfishing.

I’m not really sure why. I do both. I spearfish to specifically choose what I eat. I use rod and reel for fun. I release everything I catch by rod and reel.”

It has been noted that in countries such as Australia and South Africa where the activity is regulated by state fisheries, spearfishing has been found to be the most environmentally friendly form of fishing. It is highly selective, has no by-catch, does not cause habitat damage, and does not create pollution or harm to protected endangered species.

Martin explains how spearfishing clubs run competitions. “Spearfishing clubs reward members with point systems that are heavily weighted towards the number of species caught over the weight of the catch. This system rewards the skill of hunting a variety of fish with different behaviour and different habitats.”

The best experiences of spearfishing are the new friendships made and the stories that come from exploring new ground, the countless unscripted events that take place in and out of the water, the new species you shoot, and the many new creatures that you get to see.

“Join a club or go with someone who is very experienced. Do not try and learn by yourself.” - Martin SPEARFISHING ON THE GOLD COAST No fishing license required to spearfish.

Common fish: Bream, luderick, flathead, trevally and jack, reef fish, kingfish, cobia and mackerel, Jewfish, snapper, sweetlips, parrot fish, kingfish, bream, whiting Hardest to target: Snapper LOCATIONS: On the outside walls of the Gold Coast Seaway (not the inside walls, that’s illegal).

• Narrowneck artificial reef • Burleigh headland • Palm Beach Reef • Kirra Reef IMPORTANT: Consult the Queensland Department of Agriculture and Fisheries if you are unsure of locations and to obtain the latest updates on spearfishing regulations in Queensland.

Check out the Southern Queensland Spearfishing Facebook page to join a community of spearfishermen in the region.

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Time 0107 0657 MO 1240 1930

1

AUGUST m

0.21 1.18 0.09 1.74

Time

SEPTEMBER

Time

m 0.27 1.12 0.16 1.60

0208 0811 TH 1356 2027

0.18 1.18 1301 0.08 WE 1948 1.67

2 0242 0847

0051 0633 TU 1219 1909

16

1

Time

m

0.09 1.26 0.07 1.59

0134 073 0738 FR 1328 2001

16

m

Time

-0.00 1.35 -0.02 1.66

0205 0822 SA 1417 2029

2 0234 0855

1

Time

m

0.07 1.36 0.12 1.39

0140 0802 080 SU 1403 2018

16

m -0.13 1.58 -0.05 1.52

0.15 1.21 1327 0.06 TU 2013 1.75

17 0129 0716

0.09 1.28 1434 0.09 FR 2101 1.53

0213 -0.07 17 082 0822 1.43

0.07 1.38 1454 0.14 SU 2101 1.34

-0.14 17 0221 0848 1.65

0235 0829 WE 1410 2053

0.12 1.23 0.07 1.72

18 0206 0759

0314 0923 SA 1512 2133

0.10 1.29 0.13 1.46

-0.09 18 0253 0907 1.50

0301 0928 MO 1531 2133

0.09 1.39 0.18 1.27

-0.11 18 0304 0936 1.68

0314 0911 TH 1452 2131

0.12 1.23 0.10 1.67

19 0244 0841

0344 0958 SU 1549 2205

0.12 1.29 0.19 1.38

-0.08 19 0335 0954 1.53 MO 1554 0.01 2210 1.47

0329 1002 TU 1609 2206

0.13 1.38 0.23 1.19

-0.03 19 0348 1026 1.66

0.14 1.23 1532 0.15 FR 2206 1.58

20 0324 0926

5 0413 1034

0.16 1.27 1628 0.26 MO 2237 1.28

-0.03 20 0418 1044 1.52

5 0359 1038

0.18 1.36 1650 0.29 WE 2242 1.10

20 0436 1120

0428 1030 SA 1612 2241

0.17 1.21 0.23 1.48

21 0406 1013

0444 1112 TU 1710 2313

0.20 1.25 0.34 1.18

21 0504 1138

0432 1118 TH 1736 2323

0.24 1.32 0.35 1.02

21 0529 1220

7 0501 1110

0.21 1.19 SU 1653 0.32 2315 1.37

22 0449 1102

0518 1155 WE 1759 2354

0.25 1.23 0.42 1.08

22 0555 1240

0509 0.30 1204 1.28 FR 1831 0.41

22 0057 0631

8 0536 1154

23 0536 1157

0557 0.31 1247 1.20 TH 1900 0.48

8

23 0102 0655

0014 0555 SA 1302 1941

0.94 0.37 1.24 0.43

23 0217 0745

9 0612 1243

0.29 1.15 1831 0.49 TU

24 0007 0626

9 0046 0645

24 0225 0808

9 0125 0657

0.89 0.42 SU 1410 1.23 2059 0.41

24 0336 0904

0036 0654 WE 1343 1939

1.16 0.33 1.16 0.55

25 0109 0722

10 0157 0748

25 0348 0925

10 0246 0815

25 0439 1014

0130 0747 TH 1451 2102

1.07 0.36 1.18 0.57

26 0225 0827

11 0317 0902

26 0457 1034

11 0358 0933

26 0532 1113

0237 0847 FR 1558 2221

1.00 0.37 1.25 0.53

27 0347 0938

12 0426 1011

27 0551 1132

12 0456 1038

27 0614 1203

0350 0950 SA 1656 2322

0.98 0.35 1.33 0.45

28 0500 1044

13 0523 1108

28 0028 0636

13 0546 1133

28 0028 0652

0454 1.01 1047 0.30 SU 1745 1.43

29 0007 0600

14 0018 0611

29 0104 0714

14 0020 0633

29 0058 0726

0010 0547 MO 1135 1828

30 0052 0650

15 0056 0655

30 0135 0749

-0.07 0127 15 0100 0717 1.47 30 0758

2 0153 0745 3 4

5 0352 0951 6

0.25 1.17 MO 1738 0.41 2353 1.27

0.36 1.06 0.23 1.52

0.10 1.25 TH 1343 0.03 2027 1.71 0.04 1.31 FR 1427 0.00 2107 1.71

0.00 1.35 1513 0.01 SA 2148 1.67

0.00 1.37 SU 1602 0.07 2230 1.58

0.03 1.38 MO 1656 0.15 2316 1.45 0.08 1.37 TU 1755 0.26

1.31 0.15 1300 1.36 WE 1904 0.35 1.16 0.21 TH 1411 1.36 2029 0.41 1.06 0.25 FR 1525 1.40 2159 0.39

1.02 0.25 1635 1.46 SA 2311 0.32

1.05 0.22 SU 1736 1.54

0.24 1.10 MO 1142 0.16 1828 1.59 0.17 1.16 TU 1231 0.11 1912 1.62

3 4

6 7

0.99 0.36 FR 1351 1.19 2020 0.51 0.92 0.40 1503 1.21 SA 2143 0.48

0.91 0.39 SU 1609 1.28 2247 0.40

0.96 0.34 MO 1706 1.37 2336 0.30 1.04 0.25 1754 1.47 TU

0.19 1.14 WE 1156 0.15 1838 1.56 0.09 1.25 TH 1242 0.05 1920 1.62

SA 1414 -0.05 2042 1.64

3

SU 1503 -0.04 2125 1.58

4

TU 1650 0.10 2258 1.32

0.06 1.49 WE 1751 0.21 2353 1.17

6

0.16 1.44 TH 1904 0.30

7

1.03 0.25 FR 1350 1.40 2030 0.34

8

0.96 0.31 SA 1505 1.39 2152 0.32

0.97 0.32 1615 1.41 SU 2256 0.26

1.04 0.28 MO 1715 1.44 2346 0.20 1.12 0.22 TU 1805 1.47

0.14 1.20 1219 0.17 WE 1847 1.48 0.10 1.27 TH 1302 0.13 1924 1.47 0.07 1.32 FR 1341 0.11 1957 1.44

0.90 0.42 1519 1.27 MO 2204 0.34 0.97 0.38 TU 1621 1.33 2255 0.23

1.08 0.28 WE 1715 1.42 2339 0.12 1.21 0.18 1803 1.49 TH 0.02 1.35 FR 1224 0.07 1849 1.54

First Quarter

TU 1548 -0.00 2152 1.33

WE 1646 0.07 2244 1.20

0.07 1.61 1748 0.16 TH 2344 1.07 0.19 1.53 FR 1859 0.24

0.98 0.29 SA 1325 1.44 2015 0.27

0.95 0.36 SU 1434 1.38 2126 0.27

0.98 0.38 MO 1543 1.35 2225 0.23 1.07 0.35 1642 1.34 TU 2314 0.19

1.16 0.31 WE 1732 1.33 2353 0.14 1.25 0.26 TH 1814 1.33 0.11 1.33 1246 0.22 FR 1852 1.31

0.08 1.39 SA 1325 0.19 1926 1.29

0.07 1.44 SU 1403 0.17 1959 1.27

0.07 1.47 MO 1439 0.17 2032 1.23

0.12 1.22 WE 1316 0.08 1951 1.62

New Moon

SA 1313 -0.01 1933 1.56

MO 1455 -0.05 2104 1.45

31 0155 0830

31 0132 0732

Full Moon

© Copyright Commonweatth of Australia 2014, Bureau of Meteorology.

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OCTOBER

Last Quarter

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

AUG - OCT 2016

BOAT GUIDE JOURNEY

Island Hopping on Moreton Bay

By David Willmington, Skipper and owner of Papillon

R

ecently, I was told that local boating gets boring. So when I asked where they go, I was amazed to hear how Tipplers and the Pin are the only places they knew. Why rush to the same spots to spend the weekend and rush back, I thought. Maybe safety in numbers and crowded anchorages must be the best ones?

Some locals are amazed when you explain how to go through Whalleys Gutter, and turn east into Tiger Mullet Channel to fish around Green Bank along the huts on Crusoe Island, or turn west and anchor along Kangaroo Island. These are both great allweather deep anchorages. Many boaties do not know to go west at the Brisbane turn and venture up to Calypso Bay and into Harrigan’s Pub for a meal, or just walk up to the shops at Jacobs Well, or into Horizon Shores for a meal and supplies.

Using a chart, I show others how Perry’s Hole is a great all-weather fishing overnight spot or the eastern tip of Short Island (formerly Rat Island) where the north cardinal is, to catch a feed of tailor off the yellow buoy on the east tip off Crusoe island. If the breeze was up, I have spent many winter nights in Mosquito Creek, now called Cobby Passage, fishing and crabbing the rocks on the bends of Cobby Cobby Island. And more familiar is the Slipping Sands and the huts that used to be called the Stock Yards, which is another great anchorage close to the sand hills.

Southern Moreton Bay Islands If you’re heading north, go with the rising tide along Cobby Cobby Island as the channel shifts once you pass Koureyabba on North Stradbroke Island and Oak Island. There are some great anchorages along Russell Island up to Canaipa

Passage, which is a favourite in summer as shade from the island hills gives you a sleep-in and you can go ashore at low tide, dig a fresh water pool in the streams coming out of the island and have lots of fun. As a family, we have spent many nights in Krummel Passage with a walk up high street for exercise. Karragarra Island has lots of all-weather anchorages with three islands to explore even to just get an ice cream. But while the ferries can get a bit annoying, they can be useful for visitors to join your trip.

Peel Island Peel Island on Horseshoe Bay is always a favourite—but not in a southerly. It can be crowded on a weekend. But mid-week, you can take the dingy over southwest rocks. There are corals, clear water, good fishing, and also along the spit from the old jetty out to the reef half way to Cleveland Point. If the breeze is from the west, fish from The Bluff to Douglas Light.

North Stradbroke Island On North Stradbroke Island, my wife likes to go ashore at One Mile Beach in Dunwich and walk up through the cemetery. It is always moving and educational to see what our forefathers went through and a chance to remember them. Then we walk up to visit the bakery and take back some fresh supplies. We also get a decent cup of coffee there and grab some of the local produce from the organic fruit shop. My wife and I like to support local businesses everywhere we go and this applies to when we are out on the water. If you have time, catch the bus over to Point Lookout.

You’ll find good surf, glorious views, great modern pub and lots of walking trails.

In a southerly, I usually go to Deanbilla Bay or my favourite Myora Reef where the water is clean and fishing the Rainbow Channel always gets results. I only go north to Amity in winter to cross to Kooringal on Moreton Island because of the tide rip. In summer, a storm across the Pelican Banks and getting through the Rous Channel will give you grief, but easy on a clear winter’s day.

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Raby Bay If the breeze is anything west, head over to Raby Bay public jetty near the train station. They have all the shops you need and lots of restaurants. If you’re staying west, anchor around Green Island, St Helena Island or Mud Island. We even go into Manly for more shops and restaurants before heading west up the Brisbane River where there are lots to see that way. Otherwise, head north from Peel Island, fish the Hope Banks or the Chain Banks and the Harry Atkinson artificial reef on your way to the sand hills.

Moreton Island While I have never taken my yacht into the Blue Hole, I have seen other boats in there. I do take the dingy through Frazer’s Gutter to Mays for a cold beer and oysters at Kooringal. If you still have time and no westerly due, spend a few days at the big Sand Hills or go north to Shark Spit. (Note: I swim there so don’t believe the name!)

On to Lucinda Bay, south of Tangalooma roads, you do not get the wash from the ships that can roll into Tangalooma. I do not often spend the night behind the popular wrecks as it is often crowded.

But anywhere along Tangalooma Resort is great for a day stop. For us, it is a minimum two hours back across the Bay if the weather turns.

All these options and still only forty miles from the Gold Coast. You can go to any of these places in a runabout from the coast in a day trip. But I could spend a month getting north to the Bay. There are so many rivers and islands to explore.

Take your time and try a new spot test yourself.

Grab the chart out. Work out which way the tide and wind will be heading and find a new sunset to watch. Use your boat for its purpose and truly enjoy our own backyard: Moreton Bay Marine Park. We love it!

Editor’s note: While every due care was taken to ensure the accuracy of the names of places and the activities mentioned in this article, the reader is advised to refer to Marine Safety Queensland’s (MSQ) Beacon to Beacon and the Department of National Parks, Sport and Racing’s (NPSR) Moreton Bay Marine Park Zoning Map when planning the trip to Moreton Bay.

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