BOAT GOLD COAST MAGAZINE FEB - APRIL 2017

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15/09/2015 13:44

BOAT GOLD COAST

INSIDE THIS ISSUE

10 Joel Wings Wakeboard p.60 12 Chris Conroy’s Wild Ride GALLEON 20 Events Guide of Stradbroke Island 22 Paul Burt Fishing 30 Autumn Fishing Tips 62 Lost Island Book Review 42 Manly Boating Guide 64 Drones For Boats 66 Kid Safety On Tinnies 47 Driving On Sand 48 Nth Stradbroke Evolves 69 Best Apps For Boating 70 Recipe: Fish Soup 52 Banana Prawn Run 54 Boats As Classrooms 71 Shop And Dine By Boat 55 Commodore Kerry Noyes 72 Noosa Houseboating 73 Boating For Romance 56 Gold Coast Sailing 58 Why Use A Compass 74 Drink Driving Marine Laws 76 Tips For Life Aboard

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 Marina Mirage Office, 49/74 Seaworld Drive, Main Beach RUNAWAY BAY Klein’s Coffee Bar & Grill, 247 Bayview Street Runaway Bay Marina, 247 Bayview Street HOPE ISLAND BoatsRus, Marina Shopping Village, 10 Santa Barbara Rd Marina’s Edge, 1 John Lund Drive, Marina Quays Hope Harbour Marina, 9 John Lund Dr, Hope Island 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 GOLD COAST

Editor’s Note

T

he Gold Coast welcomed the New Year with fireworks, thunder, lightning, and welcome rains. Great summer fun for local boaties with their families and spectacular adventures for the visitors were the prevailing themes of the hot holiday season.

Now that the temperature should be cooling down, and everyone is over the holiday hangover, we turn to a little quiet time and some reflection.

The Gold Coast Waterways Authority should be acknowledged for its commendable efforts to engage with the Gold Coast boating industry and the community in 2016. Meet The Board meetings were well attended, and many people and groups took advantage of the opportunity to speak and be heard. We all know that these consultation sessions do not necessarily translate to favourable policy decisions, but the open discussions do have their merits. I hope that those who have attended also see the value of the face-to-face public discourse, instead of relying on local news and gossip for information (or non-information for that matter). In any case, as taxpayers, we are investing in the government through our tax payments, so providing feedback to our government representatives on how best to spend our community’s wealth is our obligation.

Several international industry events are scheduled this year on the Gold Coast. The Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show is still going strong on its 29th year in May, while the ASMEX Conference will be held on the days before the SCIBS dates. The ICOMIA/IFBSO Congress is also slated in May. It will be an honour to have the City host international marine business experts and policy-makers for their annual congress – the perfect opportunity to showcase the Gold Coast lifestyle.

Another boating industry development to keep an eye out for is the Gold Coast International Boat Show & Marine Expo’s move to an earlier date in March. The change of dates has been supported by the Boating Industry Association and aims to take “‘the boat show with so much more’ to a whole new level” with its new pre-winter dates.

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

CONTRIBUTORS Marcel Priest, Ian Anderson, Paul Burt, Narayan Pattison, Joel Wings, Thomas Gustafson, Monica Conroy, Luke Rafton, Ricky Gleeson, Peter Rhodes, Caroline Strainig, Kelsey Love, Kerry Noyes, Daniela Grimberg, Ray McMahon, Nic Welch, Phil Short, Patrick Molnar, Captain Michael Paddison, James Gordon, Woody Zen, Juliet Cameron, Paige Mengel, Anthony Stanton, Sue Parry-Jones,

This year 2017 is gearing up to be a year of great change and innovations.

We are fast approaching the much-awaited Commonwealth Games, and activities in the city seem to be directed towards this event. The boating community have all the opportunity to place our waterways and the Gold Coast boating lifestyle in the limelight. We wait to report on how the industry will take advantage of this major event.

COVER PHOTO The AB inf latables Oceanus VST 17 f ibreglass spor t console RIB delivers unsurpassed per formance, comfor t, versatilit y and capacit y. Available exclusively on the Gold Coast at RIB Force Inf latables. w w w.ribforce.com.au

As we prepare for the City’s huge international sporting affair and welcome international boating delegates this year, our pages bring out what is quintessentially the Gold Coast boating and waterways lifestyle.

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.

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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eyachts | NSW: 02 9979 6612 | VIC: 1300 734 144 | QLD: 07 3004 7604 Mail:8 boats@eyachts.com.au | Web: www.eyachtssealine.com

FEB - APRIL 2017 www.sealine.com

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SEALINE 530 - 53 Feet of Endless Luxury T

h e new Sealine C530 is the culmination of years of motor yacht design, achieving the perfect mix of sporty luxury and versatility for Australia’s broad boating opportunities. The curved glass windows on either side stretch from floor to ceiling, conveying the unique feeling of floating on the water, a feature Sealine is well known for. And with a total length of 16 meters and a height of less than 4 meters, the proportions give the impression of a stately yet sleek motor yacht.

Step aboard and you will be greeted by clever design decisions at every turn that provide a range of customizable spaces, offering the advantages of a much larger boat within this sporty body. The 53-foot-long boat was designed with a multifunctional roof structure to give the saloon a feeling of freedom and lightness. The front part is built with an openable panoramic roof, which transforms the large living space in the saloon into an outdoor loft. This allows the C530 to seamlessly merge with the sky, letting you enjoy the sun and the breeze streaming through.

The cabin’s huge floor-to-ceiling windows ensure that everyone can enjoy priceless panoramic 360-degree views from any seat. These 5.8m-long windows are beyond compare in the class.

The undivided windshield also continues the uncompromised viewing experience. Let your friends and family see every bit of beauty beyond.

Sliding doors on either side also intensify the airiness and views, as well as providing fast access to the bow via the spacious sidewalks.

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The large U-Shape lounge area offers space for several people and can be reconfigured into a double-facing sofa to provide uncompromising yachting experiences at both hot and cold temperatures. Other clever interior features include the swivelling 40-inch HDTV, the stylish, temperature-controlled wine bar, and the pop-up LED lighting with dimming options.

The aft cockpit is protected by a wide sunroof, which can be opened up to more than two meters.

The bench also cleverly retracts into the floor, and thus the entire dining area is transformed into a large sun terrace. Together with the convertible bow area, this provides two dining areas, two sun terraces or alternatively, a mix of both. No matter what the occasion and weather conditions, the C530 can transform to suit your needs.

And speaking of transforming, the pool deck provides a staggering array of luxurious options.

When you are in the mood for swimming, the entire deck hydraulically lowers into the water, making it effortless to swim out from and return to. Then when it is lunch time, raise the deck out of the water and fire up the BBQ, which includes a wet bar with hot and cold water. And because of the separation of the cockpit and the barbeque area, your guests remain undisturbed while the fresh grilled delights are being prepared. Then lastly, the pool deck can also be used to carry a dinghy up to 3.2m long.

Stepping below deck, the Sealine C530 has three large cabins that can comfortably accommodate

up to six people. The master cabin is at the heart of the boat and impresses with high quality materials and large hull windows at sea level, which bring in ample natural light. Its generous king-sized bed truly reflects the grandeur of this motor yacht, leaving no comfort unfulfilled.

Being located at midship, the master cabin is ideally placed to maximise its dimensions and minimise wave noise. The second VIP cabin also comes with its own king-size bed, and boasts an outstanding amount of light from the windows and skylight. Both of these cabins have their own ensuite bathrooms as well. The third cabin can be arranged with two single beds or with one queensize bed, easily accommodating either additional guests or crew.

When it comes to performance, the C530 continues to impress with its design and customisability. Depending on your boating needs, you can take your pick of three Volvo engines, ranging up to the largest IPS 800, which boasts a top speed of 34 knots. Each engine has been meticulously crafted to provide industryleading performance in fuel economy, noise levels and CO2 emissions. Forward-facing propellers minimise hub diameter and provide better grip in the water. Intuitive joystick controls also ensure all that power is enjoyable and easy to manoeuvre.

Discover the luxurious delights and ingenious craftsmanship of the Sealine C530, as well as an extensive range of other motor yachts, by contacting the EYACHTS team 02 9979 6612 or visiting www.eyachts.com.au.

9

BOAT PHOTOGRAPHY

TRICK SKI GOLD COAST STYLE

PHOTO BY THOMAS GUSTAFSON. WORDS BY JOEL WING

.

This photo means a lot to me, shot in the awesome Gold Coast, my hometown. It captures me trick skiing, something that I am passionate about doing in the one place I really love to do it!

This inverted trick shot was taken by Thomas Gustafson of Sweden, regarded as one of the best waterski and wakeboard photographers in the world. Shooting in the early afternoon on the Nerang River, near Cronin Island, we spent quite a long time working to get this shot just right. The boat we were using was a Malibu Response TXi and I was riding a 43”KD Trick ski on a short rope of around 14m.

Thomas was positioned in the water so as to capture the skyline as the background. To ensure he was not washed away by the tide, we relied on some unique ingenuity by anchoring him by rope in the middle of the channel while he was wearing two life jackets for buoyancy.

This is a fairly straightforward trick for me, one that I have been performing for a long time. I was focused on getting the timing right and making sure I had good height on the trick to get up out of the spray for a clear shot. We repeated our run past Thomas approximately 20 times, adjusting the angle of the boat’s direction while ensuring that I nailed the trick at just the right time.

I was able to nail this heelside backroll trick by building up my speed with a progressive edge of the board. At the top of the wake, the board needs to go out behind and use the boat’s momentum to pull me around in the right direction, and then concentrate on spotting the landing.

This photo demonstrates the great variety of boating experiences the City of Gold Coast has to offer. I don’t think there is anywhere else in the world where you can have a morning wakeboard on the river, then park the boat at Wave Break Island and have a snorkel, before heading to Currigee or Tipplers, and do some wallaby and goanna spotting, then an afternoon wakesurf on the Broadwater, and finishing the day sipping some champagne at Marina Mirage or Capri on Via Roma!

Where else can you do that?

Ab out Joel Joel Wing is one of the most recognised names in Australian watersports. He has dominated Australian waterskiing for more than a decade. He is 11-time Australian champion, multiple Australian record holder and world top 10, and has been a member of the Australian Waterski team since 1999. He operates a waterski and wakeboard school on the Gold Coast (skiwake.com), using his vast experience to coach beginners through to elite competitors. He is a staunch advocate for waterski education, and is hopeful that “the government will continue to invest in waterskiing facilities, providing boat access areas on flat water with sandy beaches away from big boat traffic.”

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Some of Joel’s many titles Include: *Australian Trick record holder for 9 years *Australian Overall record holder for 6 years *2012 Elite World Ranking 9th *11 times Australian Champion *Moomba Masters Overall Champion 2012 *Australian Overall Champion 2008 & 2011 *Australian Open Slalom Champion 2011 *3rd Place, Tricks, World Championships 2003 *3rd Place, Tricks, US Open 2008 *3rd Place, Slalom, Moomba Masters 2008 *3rd Place, Tricks, Moomba Masters 2008.

FEB - APRIL 2017

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Boating is a community affair. The all-new 185 OB is the perfect 18-foot platform for a boatload of fun and people. From the cockpit wrap around U-shaped seating, ample bow seating with storage underneath to the optinal 150 horse outboard engine, the 185 is ready for any activity you and your passengers want to throw at it. With dependable Mercury power and an easy-tow trailer package, this boat is designed for cruising, entertaining and watersports - to make family memories unforgettable.

Maximum outboard 150hp Length 5.64 m, Beam 2.39 m Wrap around U-shape seating Bow Storage Compartments Floor Storage Rotary Tilt Steering Aft Sundeck Under Bench Seat Ski Storage Boarding Ladder Deck Reinforcement for Wakeboard Tower Ski Tow Pylon Extended Swim Platform Walk thru Windshield

Build your own dream Larson at wyldaboutboats.com.au (07) 5563 2223

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11

BOAT HISTORY

e d i S d l i W e h T A Ride On ND E G E L G IN T A O B L A C O L Y O C H R IS C O N R

By Andy Kancachian

e said goodbye to many famous people in 2016, and one of them is our own W local boating celebrity. Chris Conroy was a pioneer boat media personality who produced and starred in his own TV show, Chris Conroy’s Wonderful World of Boats. The show, based on the Gold Coast and produced in Brisbane studios, ran for over 23 years, creating an impressive 700 episodes.

With a dedicated viewing audience of millions, the show was aired weekly by more than 20 commercial TV stations around Australia and many community stations. The show placed the spotlight directly on Australian boat manufacturers, and many of those based in South East Queensland.

Boating, TV and love life - Chris was involved in boating from an early age, as his father Ted owned all kinds of boats over a 50-year period. Chris built an uncanny knowledge of boats, their engines, and the sea. In his early teens, he worked in the firbreglass industry. Over the course of 20 years, he learned about designing and building boats. He then went on to be a school teacher, lecturer, entertainer, and company technical representative before beginning a career in television.

He was remarkable in the limelight and behind the scenes – from pre-production all the way to post-production. Chris independently produced the show, which first aired in 1979. He dreamed up the weekly show’s structure. He researched and scripted each episode, and also starred as the host-interviewer, as well as doing much of the filming himself. In post-production, he undertook the editing, and provided the voice-overs, live and unscripted in the television studios.

The television show generated thousands of boat sales. People who would otherwise never have considered buying a boat were inspired to make the purchase. In his own words, Chris attributed his success to the way he presented the boats in the show. “I was able to describe the technology, explain how it worked, and support the manufacturer’s brand identification and marketing.” He presented boating as the ultimate family recreation. And by the mid-eighties, the show had gained national acclaim. It was also then that he met his second wife, Monica.

Back then, as it is now, producing TV shows was a very expensive business, entailing costs for cameramen, editors, helicopters, films and transfers, as well as studio time. Monica points out, “It was only possible using cost-saving ingenuity and the support of the advertisers. We had 24 minutes of content, broken down to three eight-minute segments. Chris would introduce the product, and then go to the overlay footage with a voice over, which Chris would improvise while watching the silent footage. In those early days, we filmed on 16mm film. Each reel came in 10-minute durations uncut. There was no room for mistakes or re-takes, as a 10-minute film would cost $200!” The process was highly efficient for the times.

Monica further explains the process they had to undergo for each episode. “Chris would introduce the relevant sections. We would then film a series of takes, boat and features, boat-to-boat, onboard shots, cutaways, and interviews. The film was sent to Brisbane for developing, and the footage would arrive back very shortly.

On Fridays of each week, we would drive to Channel 9 in Brisbane to transfer the programme. Chris would sit in the sound box and do the voice-over, while the film was being transferred and the music and credits added. We walked away with the master tapes which were dispatched to the relevant TV stations around the country that were airing the show, usually the very next day, on Saturday mornings.”

Production became less costly when the show was filmed in digital format. Monica recalls, “It was not until the late 80’s that we introduced digital format with the show shot on BVU master tapes, saving a huge amount of money and time. We had 20 minutes of tape, and could review the content immediately.” As there was no need to send the film to Brisbane, Chris built his own sound box in his studio for voiceover and music. The TV show production became totally independent from any external company and/or TV station.

The production team were privileged to test and discover a myriad of boat brands.

The show profiled many popular fast boats of the time, including Signature boats, Stebercraft and Oceantrek.

The courtship between Chris and Monica led to the couple living in a waterfront property at Paradise Point, while running the TV show from an office at Runaway Bay Marina, which was very much the heart of the boating scene on the Gold Coast.

Later on, they moved to their purpose-built studio on a rural property in Willow Vale.

The excitement would build up when they were faced with dangerous incidents.

Monica goes on to explain that the most dangerous role was that of the cameraman who would have a distorted sense of distance through the viewfinder, which made balancing and sensing the proximity to danger all that more difficult. She declares that filming on the Broadwater always posed a challenge for boat testing and for filming. “The Broadwater was always very dangerous for filming because the sand was forever moving, creating lots of shallow areas, and the risk of hitting a sandbar.

At that time, crossing the bar was also dangerous in a newly acquainted boat with waves appearing from out of nowhere.”

Producing the show - Monica was immediately drawn to the life on the water, and initially became the in-house model for the show, pointing out and demonstrating the boats’ features. Eventually, she increased her involvement and began to co-produce the shows, as well as manage the telemarketing of products related to boating and leisure. “It was very challenging, finding products to demonstrate each week. We were independent TV producers. We did not receive any funding from the networks, so the product manufacturers and distributors were our source of income.”

The team experienced very interesting events too. There are a couple incidents worth of note for Monica. She recalls one at the Whitsundays. “In the early days of Hamilton Island, we were fortunate enough to film a yacht owned by Whitsunday Rent-a-yacht and we had arranged to stay onboard and live in the harbour for a week. Just our luck, it was also the week that nearly half the resort was destroyed by a raging fire!” She adds another, “One of the most heart-thumping episodes was when we simultaneously filmed eight different inboard models of Flightcraft

In 1985, Chris attended the NBW Telethon, with other personalities, to raise money for children in Africa. Monica caught his attention when, as part of her modelling assignment, she jumped out of the cake in the opening scenes with TV icon Bernard King.

Photos by Monica Conroy

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FEB - APRIL 2017

boats. I was very nervous, as I had to skipper one of the boats. We took precautions to avoid disasters, but nevertheless it was very dangerous work.”

The challenges did not deter Chris and his team from featuring more boats. In fact, their skills improved, and Chris wanted to share his knowledge to everyone. Monica says, “With so much exposure to boats and unknown waters on and off screen, Chris’s boat handling skills and knowledge were remarkable. He eventually wrote a skills and safety handbook titled, Chris Conroy’s Boating The First Step, which sold thousands of copies and is still relevant today.”

As boating and recreation were inseparable, the TV show eventually expanded to tourism, aviation and leisure. The show was consequently renamed, Chris Conroy’s Leisureworld. “It was a very exciting life, as the show evolved we were not restricted to just boats. There was travel to exotic places and exposure to many lifestyle and leisure ideas of the times,” says Monica.

New horizons - In spite of its popularity, changes in the TV networks’ policies caused the show’s eventual demise. The show aired for the last time in 2002. “Eventually, the networks amalgamated, and began to demand a fee for the airtime used, which was out of touch with production costs, and what could be generated from advertisers and sponsors. So, a lifetime of work that had attracted an almost cult-like following, just stopped,” sighs Monica.

After the show, Chris became more focused on his hobbies. He was always passionate about aviation. He designed and built his own ultralite, which he dubbed, “The Sparrow”. Monica remembers one incident fondly. “Once Chris wanted to test a new plane propeller that he received, so he tied the plane to a tree in the yard and started

BOATGOLDCOAST.COM. AU

the engine. Of course, the rope snapped and the plane began to take off with Chris in tow, then the fun abruptly ended with the plane smashing into a tree and breaking the new propeller.” Such was life around Chris, Monica relates, “up in the air with various home-made aircraft, and near-death experiences - but Chris was lucky and quickthinking in emergency situations.”

Chris was a risk-taker and one who never let danger stop him from pursuing his passion. One of his mates wrote of his passing: “Somehow, Conroy used to make the stories of near fatal accidents sound almost like an adventure, like climbing Mount Everest dodging falling rocks and avalanches on the way.” When learning more about Chris Conroy, one might believe that society today does not produce many men like him. (Or possibly, these days with so many modern regulations, men are not allowed to act so fearlessly.)

“Chris was one of a kind, a visionary of modern lifestyle television. He was also a passionate jazz singer, a father of four, an author, an educator at local schools, and a great handyman around the house,” says Monica.

Chris Conroy was arguably one of the longest-lasting independent TV producers in Australia. His dedication and service to the boating community has been unsurpassed.

Through his exposure of the boating lifestyle and individual boat brands, Chris ensured that boating is cemented as a great Australian pastime. Over the years, his book and videos have been used by schools, prisons, amateur boat builders, and handymen throughout Australia making him an Australian boating legend.

Copies of Chris Conroy’s Boating The First Step are available for sale. ($29 plus postage and handling). Contact Monica Conroy on monicashccs@gmail.com.

13

BOAT GOLD COAST

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yacht sees hull #94 debut with a some minor

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A superbamidships child friendly layout which is also con guration, island Queen and a ideal for a boys trip with of ve accommodate v-berth queen fwd. antooverhead single to all inAindividual full size beds. layout LS Yachts have port. superb child friendly which is also perfected this timeless cruiser, so come and ideal for a boys trip of ve to accommodate secure yours and make 2017 the year of getting all in individual full size beds. LS Yachts have out there & enjoying it. You deserve it, contact perfected this timeless cruiser, so come and the professional team today secure yours and make 2017 the year of getting out there & enjoying it. over You deserve it, contact Over service, deliver: the professional team today

Simple in theory !

LS Yachtsservice, elevate the service team to accommodate Over over deliver: the increasing Motor yacht size.

Simple inwords theory ! just in the boat In Leigh-Smith’s (we are not

LS Yachts elevate the service team to accommodate the increasing Motor yacht size.

In Leigh-Smith’s words (we are not just in the boat

business, we are in the people business). business, we are in the people business).

Identifying the market LS Yachts are specialising in Identifying the market LS Yachts are specialising in is really Motor yachts 45ft to 150ft, an experienced is really Motor yachts 45ft toto150ft, an experienced service manager was required maintain and servicethe manager was required to maintain and increase rapid growth of LS Yachts as an increase the rapid growth of LS Yachts as an Australian leader in the Motor yacht Industry. Dean Australian leader theexperience Motor yacht and Ryan leaned on in their andIndustry. contactsDean and Ryan leaned onthe their experience and City contacts from the many years at Helm of Gold Coast from and the many years at the Helm of Gold Coast City Marina Shipyard.

Enter Jason (Norto) Norton, Project manager, Engineer,Enter Yacht Captain andNorton, all Marina and Shipyard.

Jason (Norto) round offshore professional with a fun, upbeat and Project manager, Engineer, Yacht Captain and all friendly Jason was inwith search of aupbeat land and roundapproach. offshore professional a fun, based opportunity where he could use his skillof setato friendly approach.

Jason was in search land its based fullest potential.

Jason’s drive was to work with opportunity where he could use his skill set to multiple owners and offer a service to become a base its fullest potential. Jason’s drive was to work with for luxury yachts & their owners all within Sanctuary multiple owners and offer a service to become a base Cove, which is the natural habitat of the yacht owner. for luxury yachts & their owners all within Sanctuary Norto will be a perfect addition to the LSY team Cove, which is the habitat the vessel yacht owner. and will moonlight as anatural yacht broker forof large Norto will be a perfect addition to the LSY team owners, with assistance of Dean and Ryan. However, will moonlight as a yacht for large vessel hisand real focus is the guarantee that broker every motor yacht

owners, with assistance of Dean and Ryan. However, his real focus is the guarantee that every motor yacht

owner, that purchases from the LSY brand does so while learning and being assisted to a level not seen in the current industry platforms. We welcome Norto owner, purchases the LSY brand does so aboard & that wish him well withfrom the hand over & delivery of while a 70ft learning Hamptonand Endurance which is to inbound being assisted a leveltonot seen Tasmania for the industry new owners. in the current platforms. We welcome Norto

aboard & wish him well with the hand over & delivery of a 70ft Hampton Endurance which is inbound to Tasmania for the new owners.

FEB - APRIL 2017

BOAT GOLD COAST

Real teamwork!

Know your insurance, so you know exactly what you are covered for, when and how!

Know your

e c n a r insu

It might seem like a very simple thing to say, but honestly, how well do you know it?

Some may well not even know who has underwritten the policy, and the only contact they have is their broker.

There are many reasons you should know all you can about your cover. Chief amongst them is the value over it. Most are market price, or a like replacement vessel. Only one has an agreed fixed value and no deductions from that number in the event of total loss.

You get the number written on the front. No question. Think you have that already? Well unless your policy is already held with Pantaenius Sail and Motor Yacht Insurance, the chances are very slim. Take a moment right now to investigate and when you come back, we’ll also look at some other very important elements.

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Even if it is not a total loss, you will benefit from items like capped depreciation.

Should lighting fry your electronics, you will get a minimum 70% back for the gear, and 100% of the labour needed to install the replacements. No one else offers that.

Say you end up on the bricks in a foreign land. You have the might of a global leader, and their set of contacts already has many local cruisers insisting they will never go anywhere without cover from Pantaenius.

All the crew at Pantaenius are on deck to make your boating safe and enjoyable.

AUS16230

Now it is always the skipper’s responsibility and duty of care to have a safe vessel.

Pantaenius will ensure you know your vessel and swing mooring, should it be on one, better than ever before. That means they will need things like rig reports, surveys and mooring inspections. But the upside is that you will have a complete picture of your situation and a real, tangible and identifiable number that it all represents.

11/2016

OK, back with us again, and if you are ready, you probably just found out that you might be paying a premium on a value you will never receive. Think about that for a minute, because that involves a lot of dollars that could have gone elsewhere.

So yes, take another look at the image and ask yourself if you want to be that person. Do I want to worry about all the other boats it hit on its way to self-destruction? Do I need to be involved in months or even years of wrangling with my insurer? Can I make a little time to read the plain English policy document that they will explain to me? Do I like the idea of an all-risk policy with the exclusions taking up less than one page?

Can I honestly afford not to investigate this thoroughly? No you cannot! So please get to know your boat even better, your insurer by name, and your insurance policy back to front with the crew that know boats. Go to www.pantaenius.com.au or call +61 2 9936 1670 today and see why everything from superyachts to global cruisers choose the marine originated, all-risk policy that only Pantaenius can provide you with.

BOATGOLDCOAST.COM. AU

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

15

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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FEB - APRIL 2017

BOAT GOLD COAST

LOVE YOUR BOAT, LOVE ITS LOCATION

T

h e word is out, and passionate boaties have responded to the call of the Gold Coast’s hidden gem. As beautiful cruisers, yachts, Seawind Cats, and Maritimos line the berths of Hope Harbour Marina for the holiday break, it continues to exude an atmosphere unique to every other marina on the Gold Coast.

Hope Harbour Marina is in a class of its own. This peaceful and affordable lifestyle marina is located on the far eastern point of Hope Island just 2km from the beautiful Gold Coast Broadwater, 15 minutes from the Gold Coast Seaway, and adjacent to the unspoiled Southern Moreton Bay Islands National Park.

Its pristine waters are teeming with vibrant life.

There are no commercial grinders blaring, no blowoff from the hardstand, no busy banter of tradesmen or vehicles zooming around - just the calm hum of boaties happy to be on board their boats. And who can blame them?

“The access by land and sea is ideal for people who want to spend as much time as possible on their boat. It’s just five minutes off the M1 for people escaping Brisbane for the weekend, or those flying in to airports,” says Russell Dickins, the marina’s dock master. “More importantly, it’s just two kilometres from the open Broadwater for those coming by sea, or hoping to get out there.”

Convenience abounds on arrival with marina fairways and berths specially designed to provide

easy and unrestricted access for multihulls and super yachts.

hotel’s luxurious day spa packages, or to enjoy the dining on offer at the restaurant.

One of the first marinas to implement the leading Bellingham composite rods, Hope Harbour Marina offers berthing for long and short term stays with 280 premium marina berths for sail or power boats (including multihulls between six and 40 metres).

To maintain that holiday feeling, bring along your golf clubs, as there are prestigious courses within seven minutes away.

A convenient fuel jetty is located near the harbour entrance, with unleaded and diesel fuel available seven days a week, as well as bait, tackle and ice.

Once you’ve settled in and discovered the tennis court and resort-style swimming pool access, convenient facilities, and cafes and restaurants close by, you’ll be forgiven for thinking this is a resort rather than a marina.

“It certainly is a lifestyle location, a place you can relax on your boat without any inconveniences, while further afield the Gold Coast waits to be discovered,” says Russell. “It’s close to all the popular anchorages and the Broadwater. We love seeing people setting out for the day on the water, or even just popping down to Paradise Point or around to Sanctuary Cove for lunch and a shop.”

If you do fancy a hotel room over staying on your boat, the Ramada Hotel Hope Harbour has recently been refurbished and offers luxury accommodation overlooking the marina. However, you don’t need to be a guest to indulge in the

At the end of a day on the water or on the green, sit back and watch the sunset over the marina with a glass of vino at the elegant Marlin bar.

It’s one thing to enjoy the time you spend on your boat, and it’s another to be completely confident in the safety of it while you are away. Hope Harbour Marina is arguably the safest harbour on the coast. The marina basin is sheltered and secure, safely branching off the Coomera River and not affected by strong river or tidal flows.

You can store your vessel clear of the dangers of winds, weather and floods that can be a problem for other marinas to the north.

Experience the pristine environment, tranquility and quality of this unique and affordable lifestyle marina.

To discuss your berthing requirements and the most competitive rates on the Gold Coast, contact the friendly and helpful team at Hope Harbour Marina .

Contact (07) 5530 1333 or contact info@hopeharbourmarina.com.au.

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MARCH 17-19 2017 GOLD COAST MARINE PRECINCT Waterway Drive, Coomera (behind Dreamworld)

18

230+ Exhibitors on display 600+ Boats on display, on the hardstand and marina Giant 3km display circuit with guided boat factory tours Action packed program of live boating educational events Free on-site parking

TICKETS ON SALE NOW

www.gcboatshow.com.au FEB - APRIL 2017

BOAT GOLD COAST

See all the new 2017 releases first at the Gold Coast International Boat Show & Marine Expo in March A massive marine showcase featuring hundreds of brand-new boats, jet skis, marine electronics, engines and every nautical accessory you can possibly imagine kicks off the Australian boat show season on Queensland’s sunny Gold Coast this March.

The Gold Coast International Boat Show & Marine Expo from 17-19 March 2017 is a major boon for the boat-loving public and has experienced unprecedented support from the marine industry.

“If you love to spend your leisure time on the water, the Gold Coast is certainly the place to be in March,” said Event & Marketing Manager, Emma Brown.

The Gold Coast International Boat Show & Marine Expo – now with its new March dates – builds on six years of growth and success. The event has, in the past two years, injected over $100 million into the Gold Coast and Queensland economies.

“Our industry boat show is unique in so many respects – nowhere else in the world is a massive marine showcase held right in the heart of the largest boatbuilders and recreational shipyards in the host country,” said Mrs Brown.

“On the water, we will present a showcase of luxurious yachts and boats of all designs and sizes, including a massive 208ft super yacht that’s certain to create an incredible marina experience.

“Our very popular sea trials will also return in 2017 – last year over 1000 sea trials were conducted, with many families being able to experience boating for the first time with The Mercury Edge program.”

Mrs Brown said many new features would also be introduced on land to further enhance the enjoyment of visitors.

“Our giant display circuit and two marinas will feature more Australian and World Premieres than ever before, with many of the world’s leading business and brands reserving more space and berths to exclusively premiere their new-year releases,” she said.

“Visitors will be able to experience and enjoy everything their families need to have fun on the water, and at a time when their boating considerations are top of mind.”

BOATGOLDCOAST.COM. AU

will have an enormous range of brand-new boats here at that time – in fact the largest range of boats under one roof in Australia.”

Mrs Brown said the Gold Coast International Boat Show & Marine Expo will feature everything from super yachts to luxury motor and sailing yachts, kayaks to jet skis and fishing equipment…and everything else in between.

“We also have factory tours of the giant Riviera and Quintrex boat-building facilities, and working demonstrations at the Gold Coast City Marina & Shipyard, as well as many new interactive demonstrations and live entertainment every 15 minutes across our giant display circuit and two marinas.

“The Gold Coast International Boat Show & Marine Expo is a boat show for real boaters. Being lifetime boaters ourselves, we know that families who go boating together, stay together…so we have ensured the show will have something for every member of the family.”

“With so many exhibitors releasing new models and products this year, we have created a new section on our website GCBoatShow.com called “See It First”, where we will detail all the firsts you will be able to experience in March,” she said.

Stefan Ackerie from Stefan Boating World said moving the boat show date to March was ‘genius’.

“There will be more exhibitors, more people and more choices than ever before,” he said. “Stefan Boating World 19

SOUTH PASSAGE PUBLIC DAY SAIL

FEB

11

Explore Moreton Bay on board the deck of Queensland’s own tall ship – South Passage, a 100foot gaff-rigged Schooner owned and operated by the not-for-profit association, The Sail Training Association of Qld Inc. For the enthusiast, learn the ropes as part of the crew; otherwise sit back, relax and take in the sea air. Tickets from $65. (southpassage.org.au)

EVENTS GUIDE F E B – M AY 2 0 1 7 MAR GOLD COAST 17-19 INTERNATIONAL BOAT SHOW & MARINE EXPO The Expo features boats, marine equipment and boat building and service facilities. Staged within the facilities of Australia’s largest manufacturing plants and shipyards at the Gold Coast Marine Precinct, Coomera, the Expo includes an interactive demonstration and experience arena. (gcmarineexpo.com.au)

RIVIERA FESTIVAL OF BOATING

MAR

An educational and social event where Riviera and Belize owners and boating enthusiasts from around the globe unite. The festival covers all aspects of boating and conducts over 70 educational seminars and practical workshops. Gold Coast Marine Precinct, Coomera. (riviera.com.au/events)

MAY AUSTRALIAN 22-24 SUPERYACHT & MARINE EXPORT CONFERENCE (ASMEX) An Australian International Marine Export Group and Superyacht Australia Industry conference, the ASMEX, provides an opportunity for the industry to gain up-to-date information and potential opportunities to drive business. Intercontinental Hotel at Sanctuary Cove. (aimex.asn.au)

MAY

ICOMIA/ IFBSO CONGRESS

24-27

The International Council of Marine Industry Associations (ICOMIA) and the International Federation of Boat Show Organisers (IFBSO) will hold a Congress on the Gold Coast, attracting delegates from around the globe. Hosted by ICOMIA’s Australian member, Boating Industry Association, it will be held at the Sheraton Mirage Gold Coast. (www.bia.org.au)

A Bay Race for Division Yachts down into the Southern Bay and finishing near North Stradbroke. Organised by Royal Queensland Yacht Squadron (RQYS), the regatta is open to all monohull and multihull boats on the register of a yacht or sailing club affiliated with a state yachting authority. (rqys.com.au)

The action-packed outdoors haven for fishermen, boat enthusiasts and outback tourers is scheduled for March 31-April 2 at the Brisbane Showgrounds. The must-attend event will bring tens-ofthousands of fishing, boating, camping, outdoors and 4x4 products from over 200 leading exhibitors and retailers, plus industry experts, together in one central location. Purchase discounted tickets online at (www.4x4show.com.au/BRI) with the code ‘BOATIE’.

APR

APR

Held annually and starting on Good Friday, this premier blue water classic begins from Shorncliffe in Moreton Bay and finishes in Gladstone Harbour. Yachts compete for the Courier Mail Cup, one of the oldest perpetual trophies in Australia that has been competed for on a continual basis. (www.brisbanetogladstone.com.au)

4

MAR NATIONAL 4X4 31-2 OUTDOORS SHOW, FISHING & BOATING EXPO

17-19

14-17 BRISBANE TO GLADSTONE YACHT RACE

MAR

MYORA CUP YACHT RACE

14-17

SAIL ABOARD SOUTH PASSAGE IN BRISBANE TO GLADSTONE YACHT RACE The South Passage is a 100foot gaff-rigged Schooner, built specifically for adventure sailing, and will take part in the excitement of Australia’s premier Easter sporting event. Package price includes a day’s training on Moreton Bay, a race cap and a shirt, all on-board meals.

Tickets $875. (southpassage.org.au)

SANCTUARY COVE INTERNATIONAL SHOW (SCIBS)

APR

AUSTRALIAN 22-24 SCHOOLS MATCH RACING CHAMPIONSHIP The Australian Schools Match Racing Championship attract emerging talent teams from clubs along the Australian east coast. Held at RQYS in the Squadrons Fleet of Elliot, 6-m keelboats run with the assistance and friendship of the Mooloolaba Yacht Club. An invitational championship based on the recommendations from the National Body for Match Racing. (rqys.com.au)

MAY

25-28 BOAT

Hundreds of boats, four days of fun, one awesome location. The worldfamous festival, where fortunes are launched and dreams set sail.

Get set to experience Oceans of Awesome celebrating everything marine, showcased against the spectacular backdrop of the Marine Village at Sanctuary Cove. (sanctuarycoveboatshow.com.au)

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BOAT ANGLER

FISHING THE GOLD COAST

ALL YEAR ROUND Bu rt with Pau l

T

he Gold Coast is the tourism mecca of Australia seeing hundreds of thousands of people a year visiting from all over the world. A vast majority of these visitors not only come for the weather, but also for our world-renowned fishing all year round. The waterways of the Gold Coast gives anglers and boating enthusiasts such an assortment of options, from the southern end of Moreton Bay to the New South Wales border.

The cooler months (April - September) During the cooler months of the year, the seas are often calm enough to head out to the reefs for a catch of snapper and monster cobia. The shallow reefs just off Surfers Paradise offer some of the best cobia fishing ever experienced. Massive fish regularly exceeding the forty-kilogram mark are targeted by anglers using large live tailor, slimy mackerel and other baits found schooling up around the pinnacles beneath. Quality eating fish, such as snapper and pearl perch, are also a favourite catch targeted by anglers during this season. A few local charter boats are all geared up for this style fishing and offer anglers and tourists the opportunity to experience the thrill of catching that fish of a lifetime.

With the cool water temperature in the estuaries, mulloway or jewfish, big tarpon, tailor, massive bream, and huge flathead are just a few fish that tame many anglers’ light tackle outfits. The shallow waters behind the Gold Coast sees an abundance of flathead moving down towards the deeper waters around the entrances to the rivers and bars where they lie with the smaller males waiting to spawn.

Tournaments have also been formed to coincide with the flathead spawning run.

The annual Flathead Classic is held every September and hundreds of flathead enthusiasts from all over the country make their way to the Gold Coast. This lureonly catch-and-release fishing competition is high on the priority list for those wanting to experience the thrill of chasing that meter-long specimen.

Mullet are also on the move this time of the year. As the cool southerly winds swing around to the west, professional fishermen take hold with their long nets and capture the schools as they move along the coastline. Most entrances to rivers and estuaries house a deep hole generally within the first kilometre of moving upstream. These deep holes are a perfect spot for large mulloway waiting for the unsuspecting mullet to swim out in long formations. Targeting and catching these fish take patience. Sometimes, many cool nights can be spent on the water waiting for that bite. Patience will generally pay off and anglers can put another notch on their most wanted fish to catch list.

The warmer months (December - March)

nd his boys a n Paul Burt a yellow fin tu with a heft y

shelf, which is situated about twenty miles offshore, holds blue marlin in excess of 300kg, and yellowfin tuna the size of a mini cooper ‘S’, and arguably the best heavy tackle sportfishing in the world. Two game fishing clubs have been formed to accommodate anglers with tournaments regularly run during this period, attracting game fishing anglers from around the country and world.

The action not only heats up on the offshore grounds, but also in the estuaries where other tropical and subtropical fish go on the hunt. As the transitional stage of cool to warm water takes place, mangrove jacks, javelin fish or grunter bream, estuary cod, trevally, tarpon, and giant herring quietly meander back through the waterways to their underwater structural homes, generally in the mid to upper reaches of creeks and rivers.

Where there are no boats

During the warmer months of the year, our coastline houses some of the best light tackle marlin fishery in the world. Anglers come from all over and can hire professional charter fishing boats or take their own boat out to tackle this once regarded as a “millionaire’s past time”. Small black marlin often school up in large numbers within a few kilometres of the coastline as the warmer currents swirl from Kirra Bay to Jumpinpin. Massive schools of baitfish, such as east coast pilchards and slimy mackerel, tighten up into balls sometimes a kilometre thick. As the terns and albatross move in for the action, so do the anglers.

Boats are not always required to fish for these tackle-busting species of the estuaries. Man-made lakes situated in the backwaters of the Gold Coast often hold quality fish and are highly regarded as the place to hit when the warmer months are upon us. The lake behind the Carrara football stadium (generally referred to as the helicopter pad), 19th Ave Lake in Palm Beach, Bond Uni Lake, Lake Capabella, Intrepid, Herron and even the closed waterways behind the Benowa Tavern are just a few haunts often targeted during this period. Live baiting is often preferred but with the ever-changing advancements in new technology, anglers are able to lure with surface poppers and soft plastics using extremely light tackle outfits.

Sportfishing for marlin and other super fast surface species, such as wahoo, dolphin fish, mackerel and sailfish, is a favourite pastime enjoyed by literally thousands of resident anglers on the coast. And for those who are hard-core, the

Tidal changes and the barometric pressure have a huge influence on whether the fish will bite or not. Once these two important combinations line up, anglers will be out there taking advantage regardless of the time of the day or night.

22

FEB - APRIL 2017

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BOAT GOLD COAST

SANCTUARY COVE INTERNATIONAL BOAT SHOW The boatyard is back for another buoyant year

B

o ating enthusiasts will be spoiled for choice at the 2017 Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show (SCIBS) with The Boatyard precinct returning for a second year, boasting bigger space and a broader range of leading brands.

A highlight of SCIBS 2016, The Boatyard – a dedicated sport, trailer boat and watercraft precinct – was home to ski boats, cabin day cruisers, leisure boats, fishing boats, and the popular RIBs, all ideal for the Queensland lifestyle.

Held every year, the Southern Hemisphere’s premier boating festival attracts more than 40,000 marine enthusiasts from around the world to revel in the renowned event’s thriving festival atmosphere. In 2017, SCIBS will be held on May 25-28.

SCIBS sales and exhibition manager Dominic O’Brien said demand for exhibitor space in The Boatyard and comparable hardstand displays throughout The Marine Village has exceeded expectations, prompting organisers to expand the precinct in 2017. “We have allocated a larger space to The Boatyard and other hardstand displays this year due to strong advanced enquiry and bookings. This is testament to a more buoyant industry currently experiencing good sales, and the need to fuel that demand by showing new products across dedicated spaces. In all, we are very heartened by the early sign-up response, which is up 50 per cent on last year.”

Originating at The Docks and expanding to the marina, The Boatyard will cover approximately 4,500m² with provision for some on-water trials, while other comparable hardstand exhibitors will be located along Masthead Way and other areas throughout the Show.

“SCIBS 2017 is shaping up to be an incredible Show, with a vast array of boats of all sizes to suit all budgets, complemented by a program of family-friendly entertainment each day, hands-on activities, quality hospitality and a plethora of luxury lifestyle brands that add to the atmosphere,” Mr O’Brien said. “Exhibitors will benefit from our upgraded amenities and revamped layout, while visitors will be thrilled at the variety and added extras that make it a brilliant day out.”

Taking a massive 570m² space at the 2017 Show is RIB Force Inflatables, a long-time SCIBS exhibitor and proud Gold Coast business with over 25 years in the market. Director Mike Orsmond said they are looking forward to the Show, planning to display up to 45 rigid inflatable boats (RIBS) along Masthead Way, representing AB and Aurora brands.

24

“We will have a host of new models on show including several Australian firsts, RIBS with lots of innovations and custom-extras, plus top-secret surprises that are still under wraps,” Mr Orsmond said.

Ranging from compact tenders to larger, centre console, sports boats, the AB brand is number one in the U.S. and Caribbean. “Of special note is our 28-foot AB with joystick and twin 250hp Furados, which is the first RIB in the country with a set up like that.”

Mr Orsmond said RIBS are enjoying massive popularity, prized for their versatility and durability.

“The beauty of RIBS is their safety and stability. They offer a smoother, dry, comfortable ride for more people than a conventional tinny. They are trailerable in the case of the smaller models. They are flexible enough to enjoy as stand-alone boats for day trips.

They are seaworthy and can go where ordinary boats can’t, thanks to their shallow draft, deep V hull and rugged tubes.”

RIB Force has been exhibiting at SCIBS for nearly two decades, attractive to what Mr Orsmond referred to as “a sophisticated market of seasoned boaties who do their research”.

“Sanctuary Cove is known for its big white boats, which is the ideal setting for our premium brands.

SCIBS has a great atmosphere. It’s very social. And May is a great time of year.”

Game and Leisure Boats will be among the key exhibitors on show in The Boatyard. Dealer Principal Graham McCloy is ecstatic to be presenting what will be among the showstoppers in 2017 – the milliondollar Grady White 375 Freedom built in North Carolina to the finest quality. “We will host the Australian debut of this beautiful 37-foot, dual console boat, positioned as the ultimate transformer,” Mr McCloy said. “It’s a giant bowrider with excellent sea-keeping ability, ideal for all kinds of boating, whether fishing, day boat or diving. Made completely of fibreglass, it features a bathroom and twin-bed cabin, AC, TV, barbeque and sink, known as a summer kitchen, and is powered by twin Yamaha 350 engines.”

Also on show from Game and Leisure Boats will be the Grady White 336 centre console, Regal 32 Express, and four smaller boats on trailers in the Grady White, Caribbean and Regal brands. An exhibitor for the past 13 years, Game and Leisure Boats return each year because SCIBS is known as “the high-quality show that attracts genuine buyers who suit our style of boat”.

Sirocco Marine North is another major exhibitor, occupying its traditional position along Masthead Way. Dealer principal Dylan Lopez said the area would be ideal for their RIB brands, which include BRIG, Williams Jet Tender and the incredible Sealegs amphibious vessel. “We are taking additional space in 2017 to display around 17 boats, some of them Australian launches, all of them unique,” Mr Lopez said.

Sirocco Marine North will host the launch of the BRIG Eagle 990 and the Williams Mini Jet, plus possibly the new Terminator Sealegs, depending on availability.

“The BRIG 420 HT Sport will also be new to Aussie showgoers. The BRIG Navigator 485 will launch in Queensland at SCIBS 2017. For us, SCIBS is among the significant shows we exhibit at, along with Sydney, Miami, Fort Lauderdale, Annapolis, Mandurah and Melbourne. BRIG is one of the leading brands in the world in RIBS and we are proud to bring the newest models each year. 2016 felt like a turning point after a few years of recovery post-GFC. We plan to make 2017 a huge display. We are feeling very confident.

The Gold Coast is enjoying an extremely buoyant period, with the Commonwealth Games approaching, rising property prices, more boats on the water, and manufacturing coming to the fore, boosting retailers.”

For Sirocco Marine, SCIBS underpins the company’s sales momentum for the rest of the year. “SCIBS is getting bigger and better each year. The Marine Village has enhanced its retail precinct. And there are heaps of boats on the Marina,” Mr Lopez said.

Adding to the mix are QMC, one of the world’s top Sea Ray, Rayglass and Boston Whaler dealers, and a diverse range of boats from Fishing & Leisure Boats, JSW Powersports, Tige and Nautique Central, with several other dealers.

Tickets to the 2017 Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show are available to purchase from www.sanctuarycoveboatshow.com.au.

For more information, or to register as an exhibitor, phone the Boat Show office at +617 5577 6011.

Running from May 25 to 28, 2017, the Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show attracts more than 40,000 visitors and 300 exhibitors to a spectacular showcase featuring hundreds of boats and thousands of marine products across four days. SCIBS offers FREE Park ‘n’ Ride services from Warner Bros. Movie World, along with limited on-site parking, available pre-paid.

FEB - APRIL 2017

BOAT GOLD COAST

MARITIMO MAKES AUST-NZ CROSSING LOOK EASY were able to pick up that current, our boat speed went up to 13.5 knots while we maintained the same 1000 rpm,” he said. “The M64 is a beautiful passage maker and the vessel handled all the sea conditions thrown up in an exemplary manner. Not once did she look like broaching, even with water on the forward deck.”

f ter 138 hours at sea and a fuel burn of 7488 litres of diesel, Maritimo skipper Russell A Fleming said his recent crossing from Hope

Russell and his crew set off from the Gold Coast with 8000 litres of fuel on board and they averaged 8.9 knots for the 1100 nautical mile trip.

absolutely flat conditions with only five knots of northerly wind and about a one-metre sea swell,” he said. “However, as we approached the Three Kings Islands off Cape Regina, a significant storm blew in with winds reaching 55 to 60 knots, and this produced short violent seas. The area is renowned for its shipwrecks, one being the Elingamite which was a schooner of about 2500 tons, so it is a place to be avoided if possible.”

Having done in excess of 35 such journeys across ‘The Ditch’, he is no stranger to the conditions and the possible perils that await boaties making the Trans Tasman trip. “When we left the Gold Coast we cruised into four days of

Russell said he charted that course because they had been headed by current for most of the journey, and he wanted to seek out a west/ east current to pick up the average speed. “I was mindful of our fuel reserves, and when we

Island on Queensland’s Gold Coast to Opua in New Zealand in an M64 cruising motoryacht was a good test of the vessel’s capabilities.

BOATGOLDCOAST.COM. AU

Having been a delivery skipper for Maritimo for more than 10 years, Russell has had his share of adventures while at sea. He said the recent journey saw the Maritimo team cruising past an enormous pod of whales about 200 nautical miles off the Australian coastline. “We saw lots of flying fish each day although we didn’t sight another vessel until we arrived at the Three Kings. There were no mobile phones, no Facebook and no internet for days, and I have to say life was looking pretty good. Then beep beep, connectivity and all hell broke loose with every man to his device, and so ended all meaningful discussions.”

Russell said they arrived in New Zealand with about 500 litres of fuel in reserve. The new M64 cruising motoryacht is one of the latest in the Maritimo range and exemplifies the sea worthiness and fuel efficiency that are part of the Maritimo vessels’ DNA. Maritimo’s International Sales and Marketing Manager Greg Haines said the company’s cruisers were designed for long-haul passage making and the recent trip by Russell and his crew demonstrate what they are capable of achieving.

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BOAT GOLD COAST

Maureen and I are no longer in our 20s, it’s just the perfect boat for us. Never having to worry about the weather is a huge comfort. And timber boats have a different feel about them. The way they creak and groan adds real personality,” Wayne enthused.

The Yanu had suffered significant wood rot over the last several years. The journey to get it seaworthy would be far from smooth sailing. The sheer amount of work required to restore this 40-year-old boat would intimidate most people.

But Wayne’s respect for the Yanu’s history ran deep and was a big part of the motivation. “The boat was crafted by a Queensland shipwright, Frank Woodnutt, who’s still building boats today in his 80s. It was originally launched as the Yanu 3 up in Cairns in 1977. And that very year the biggest black marlin of the season was caught on the boat. The Yanu’s amazing history is a big part of what kept me going through this restoration,” said Wayne.

A little over a year ago, when Wayne decided to begin the Yanu’s ambitious restoration, he sat down with his long-time friend, Adrian Parker from Power and Marine. Adrian’s business has been focused primarily on the 50-foot market, and has done countless engine installations. He had also been working on the Yanu’s engine on and off for 20 years, so he knew the boat extremely well. Not only could Adrian handle the restoration of the Yanu’s engines, but because of his extensive marine contacts, he also stepped up as a project manager to help Wayne. Before long, Adrian had organized a crack team of marine tradies, including carpentry, electrical and painting.

W

hen the Yanu heads out for its frequent fishing trips from its berth at the Gold Coast’s Versace Marina, it carries 40 years of history with it. While it was not an easy journey to get this classic fishing boat seaworthy again, its owner, Wayne Haylock, could not be prouder with the results. After its extensive and expensive restoration, the Yanu provides all the mod cons of a new boat that has rolled out of the factory, within the friendly and enduring style of its original Woodnutt build.

After living on the Gold Coast for the last 30 years, Wayne Haylock and his business, Burleigh Pools, are well known and respected fixtures in the local community. But it is his lifelong passion for boating that he is best known for.

Wayne’s love affair with boats began in the late ‘60s when he was regularly water skiing behind them in Victoria. His early boats were notoriously unreliable though. “I think my boats spent nearly as much time being towed back in to shore as they did towing water skis,” Wayne chuckled.

Fishing soon overtook skiing as Wayne’s primary passion. He routinely tackled game fish in his 25-foot Bertram before upgrading to his 34-foot Black Watch, which he kept at Bribie Island. It was there that game fishing sunk its real hooks into him.

Wayne and his son, Chris, had just joined the Bribie Island Game Fishing Club. On their first day, they were following a bunch of far more experienced fishermen out for the day. “Before I knew it, my 10-year-old son had hooked a black marlin! It was incredible! Somehow, he got the huge fish in without a gimbal. It was jumping and thrashing around the boat. Moments like that just burn into your memory. There’s nothing else like it. That was an amazing moment. And it’s cost me a lot of money and time since then to keep doing it.

But I wouldn’t trade it for anything,” Wayne recalled.

Naturally it was his intense love of fishing that drew Wayne to the 40-foot Yanu.

When Wayne first saw the boat in 2004 sitting at the Versace Marina for sale, he just had to have it. “It was just such a classic-looking, comfortable old boat.

Having a tower was a real bonus, too. Sure, it was never going to be the fastest in the water, but there weren’t any seas it couldn’t handle. Considering my wife

26

When we discussed the Yanu project with the team, the common themes were that they did not initially realise just how big the project would become, or how long it would take, but that Wayne’s commitment to doing the project properly, and refusing to cut corners, kept the challenging project moving.

The project’s boatbuilder, Troy Dibben, remembers being genuinely excited when he first heard about the Yanu job. “It’s not often you get to work on a 40-year-old boat. But wow, was it in need of some work! When I first got up on the boat to have a look around with Wayne, we just about fell through the timber.

The entire front deck was rotten, and the more I poked around, the worse it got.

It’s a bit like when you have termites in a house – the more you scratch back the more damage you discover. I’d say 60% of the entire boat was rotten and needed to be rebuilt. The job became so much bigger than I expected. But the boat just had too much history to stop, and Wayne was fanatical about wanting everything done right, which I really respected.”

Coordinating all of the mechanical work and carpentry on such a large project was a serious challenge for Adrian. “To give the shipwrights room to work, we moved both the engines out of the way. The main port side engine was lifted right out of the boat and fully reconditioned. For the starboard engine, we were able to get away with just lifting it out of the way for the shipwrights and painters. It was a massive job though. We had three tradesmen working on it full time for 12 months.”

Among all this major timber and engine restoration, Errol Cain from Australian Marine Wholesale got involved to modernize all of the Yanu’s electrical systems. Like the rest of the Yanu project, the electrical work was more complicated than usual, considering the equipment was decades out of date, such as the original paper-based sounder.

Like many of the others involved in the Yanu’s restoration, Errol expected it to be a much smaller job. But he ended up working on the boat many times over the 12 months as he removed all the old analogue gauges, and updated everything to the latest digital devices.

Errol explained the task of updating such an old helm. “The original helm had multiple engine gauges for information, like the tachometer, oil pressure and

FEB - APRIL 2017

BOAT GOLD COAST

Restoring a Piece of Marine History engine temperature. With today’s advancement in technology, it’s possible to bring these older engine’s data into a modern multi-function display with an interface box from Maretron, Raymarine or Actisense. With this technology in place, you can easily flick between information sources, like Chart Plotter, Fishfinder, Radar, AIS, cameras and more, as well as all of the engine data.”

While the helm update is the most noticeable aspect of the new electronics, Errol explained that it was actually the 4G wireless network setup that was the most difficult. “To install the Glomex 4G Webmote, we had to climb all the way up to the top of the tower. Working in harnesses and full restraints 30 feet up on the tower sure was memorable.”

Looking back on his 12-year journey with the Yanu, Wayne has no regrets, but has loads of excitement for his upcoming fishing trips. “I always wanted a real workhorse from the Yanu – not something that would just sit at the marina. And being at the Versace Marina, you just turn right and you’re on the Seaway, which means it’s so easy to get a lot of use out of it. I like to get out twice a week if I can. And it just handles the weather so well. It doesn’t

matter if we’re fishing with just myself and the wife, or if we’re whale watching with 12 passengers. The Yanu has always performed perfectly.”

“It can be tempting to cut corners on a project like this, especially when the costs are adding up. I naively thought I might be able to restore it for $50,000 to $70,000. I reckon it must be up around $200,000 by now, although I haven’t added it up. But there was just no way I could leave it in such a sorry state. And I couldn’t sell it – although so many people tried to buy it off me. I can be a fussy bugger though, so once I’d started, I wanted it done right – something I could be proud of,” explained Wayne.

Clearly, with all the history behind the Yanu, it was a boat worth all of the hard work Wayne and his team put into it. “It was worth all the money to get a boat with such heritage back to its best. I’m just so happy with the result.

I’m really looking forward to the day when my son can take it over. I know he’ll appreciate a boat with history like this. It’s a one-off boat. There’s not another built like it,” said Wayne proudly.

Written by Narayan Pattison

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2017’s ULTIMATE BOATING EVENT 17-19 MARCH

For luxury motor yacht owners and aspiring owners, this is the ultimate boating event for 2017.

Three inspiring days, two outstanding boat shows and an incredible wealth of experience that will inspire and educate your family to achieve the ‘ultimate boating experience’.

Held at the home of Riviera and within the giant Gold Coast International Boat Show & Marine Expo, the Festival is a relaxed, fun-filled and very social three days for motor yacht enthusiasts.

TO DISCOVER MORE AND REGISTER VISIT FESTIVALOFBOATING.COM THE 2017 FESTIVAL OF BOATING PROGRAM EDUCATIONAL WORKSHOPS:

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The under 25’s Skippers Club · Navigating at night · Knots, lines and hitches · Living the Riviera dream - the joys and rewards of extended cruising · Understanding radar · Fishing clinic · Safety at sea Ask an expert about your classic Riviera · Weather fundamentals · Advanced weather forecasting · Fire training and emergency planning · Emergency protocols and procedures · First aid essentials Safe towing, anchoring and rafting · Radio communications – distress, marine assist, Safetrix and AWQ · Australian waters qualification · Local direction, IALA buoyage system and collision regulations Traditional navigation 1 – passage planning · Traditional navigation 2 – positioning · Mastering the simplicity of CZone · Onboard power systems · Mastering the glass cockpit system · Preventative maintenance and discovering the professional tricks of the trade · Ladies skipper program – tender handling · Ladies skipper program - start-up, helm station and berthing · Skippers on water - start-up, helm station and berthing · Offshore seamanship · Experience pod drive propulsion with integrated joystick and glass cockpit navigation · Experience the Twin Disc express joystick system · Experience a Seakeeper gyro stabiliser at work · Riv kids skipper program · Understanding desalination · Know your generator · Troubleshooting and preventative maintenance for sanitation and air-conditioning systems Guided factory tours – aboard the Riviera express · Getting the most out of your marine insurance cover · Understanding the science of anti-fouling · Interior décor and styling and much, much more 28 FEB - APRIL 2017

BOAT GOLD COAST

Riviera Festival of Boating enhances the skills of luxury motor yacht enthusiasts

The Riviera Festival of Boating will take the exhilaration and enjoyment of boating to inspiring new levels this March as luxury motor yacht enthusiasts from around the globe converge on the marque’s world-class facility on Queensland’s Gold Coast.

Open to all luxury motor yacht owners, and aspiring owners, Riviera’s awardwinning festival of fun and learning features an action-packed educational program including many new workshops and a series of fully refreshed workshops to further enhance the knowledge and enjoyment of luxury motor yacht owners.

through to a new fishing clinic, and we have also added a special new Skippers Program for those aged 18-25 years.

prototype of the new 68 Sports Motor Yacht ahead of her World Premiere in mid-2017.

“Also new is the seminar Living the Riviera Dream – the joys and rewards of extended cruising, detailing an amazing odyssey of over 5000 nautical miles around the Pacific onboard the luxurious Riviera 61 Enclosed Flybridge, Communique.

“Our fully narrated Riviera factory tour will return in 2017, where you can experience via the Riviera Express train ride or air-conditioned bus the opportunity learn more about our worldclass production processes at the largest luxury motor yacht facility in the Southern Hemisphere,” said Mr Milne.

“Of course our most popular workshops return with new content and fresh handson workshops, including the Ladies Skipper Program, safe towing and anchoring, understanding the weather, offshore seamanship, understanding navigation and radar operation, as well as the preventative maintenance and professional Tricks of the Trade, emergency procedures and radio communications.”

“Our new workshops for 2017 span the full spectrum of marine education – from night navigation and safety at sea BOATGOLDCOAST.COM. AU

The Festival gala event, Let’s Dance, starts with a red-carpet marina party at the world-class Riviera facility on Saturday evening, 18 March, and will be followed by a spectacular celebration of dance and rhythm that is sure to have everyone eager to get up and shimmy, samba and rock all night long.

“Luxury motor yacht owners, and aspiring owners, wishing to register for educational and social events can do at FestivalofBoating.com. As these workshops and events can book out, please register early,” said Mr Milne.

The new Festival dates – 17-19 March 2017 – coincide with the first major event on the Australian boat show calendar: the new Gold Coast International Boat Show & Marine Expo.

“The timing of the Festival reflects Riviera’s genuine desire to provide the global Riviera Family with a truly unique and fulfilling boat show experience,” said Riviera Brand & Communications Director, Stephen Milne.

The Riviera Festival of Boating Ladies Day event will be held on Friday 17 March at Palazzo Versace.

“If you love the boating life, our 500-strong team would love to welcome you to the Riviera Festival of fun and learning in March 2017.”

Massive nine-model Riviera showcase

Riviera will also display its latest luxurious designs on the water with a red-carpet Festival showcase that includes guided tours through the interior 29

BOAT ANGLER

Autumn fishing tips T

ay 20kg 137cm mullow cm live tailor 40 a caught on ie North Stradd offshore from

he Summer is just about to end, but fishing on the Gold Coast still offers many options on rivers, canals, estuaries, creeks, and sand banks, to offshore in the vast ocean.

Here is a list of inshore and offshore species at the end of Summer and during the not-so-hot months of Autumn, and tips on when, where and how to catch them.

Take this list with you as you prepare your gear and plan your fishing trip before you go out for a day or two. Whether solo fishing or in the company of friends, fishing is always a respite from the daily grind of life.

By Luke Rafton of Cabbage Tree Point Bait and Tackle

OFFSHORE

6kg caught on 70cm pearl perchards offshore lch pi float lining in Bar from the Jumpinp

30

INSHORE

80cm snapper 6.

5kg caught on flo at lin in g pi lch ar ds of fsh or e on th e 36 Fa th om fro nt of Ju m pi np Re ef s in in Ba r

ay 7. 2k g 9 0 cm m ul loawso ft pl as ti c on ht ca ug ep le dg e jig gi ng atmde np in B ar in si de Ju pi

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The best always rise to the top while offering extra protection from a passing boat’s high wash. The FloatLift™ can be combined with the SwiftShield™ - Semi-Automatic Boat Cover System for ultimate docking convenience.

isualise using your boat like your car with the unmatched speed, security, versatility, and V ease of use of the Sunstream FloatLift™. Powerful

hydraulics pull the foam-filled polyethylene floats under the boat in as little as 30 seconds, with the simple press of a remote control. In the raised position, the virtually unsinkable floats are automatically secured with patented GravityLock™.

The floats also make it easy to access your hull and prop for cleaning and maintenance.

Simply tie the FloatLift™ to most places you can tie your boat: slips, side-ties, or even a mooring buoy.

The DC system can be charged using either the solar or AC powered options. The standard rear guides and remote control make docking incredibly easy.

The FloatLift™ is designed for fresh or salt water, with an aluminium frame, stainless steel hardware, marine-grade hydraulic cylinders with stainless shafts, and marine-grade hoses. The rubber-capped SuperBunks™ are not only durable, but provide the ultimate in cushioned support for your hull.

The Sunstream FloatLift™ is very versatile, and is an ideal option for boats requiring a lift in shallow water

Sunstream are the largest portable boatlift and hoist manufacturer, with an expansive product range that caters for vessels up to 10,800kg.

DockPro Australia is the exclusive east coast distributor for Sunstream, and has an experienced team of installers with over 35 years of combined experience in dry-docking. For an obligation-free quote, phone (07) 5580 4465 or visit www.dockpro.com.au.

MAXIMUM FEATURES, MINIMAL DESIGN Level launch/lift in seconds Durable, foam-filled polyethylene pontoons Free-floating, portable design ties with dock lines Versatile docking locations: slips, side-tie, mooring buoys Waterproof remote control box Stylish, low profile design access to hull and prop Remote-controlled operation Solar or AC power options

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BOAT GOLD COAST

NOW THAT’S A WRAP Benefits of vinyl wrapping your boat V

inyl wraps have become increasingly popular as an alternative to repainting and polishing your vessel for many reasons. Firstly, there is significantly less upfront cost, with wraps often being much less than half of the cost of painting.

For example, the Nordhavn 62ft boat (pictured) was quoted by local painters between $50,000 and $80,000 to respray, while the wrap came in at just $15,000. Another big advantage is that vinyl is much faster than painting, which ensures the cost of hard stands is far less, significantly reducing the time out of the water. Choosing vinyl also means it is maintenance free. Gel coat and painted boats need to be polished on a regular basis, whereas the wrap just needs to be maintained like a car – with a good wash and wax.

Vinyl also comes with a guarantee up to 7 years depending on the colour chosen. And finally, vinyl is quick and easy to repair impact damage. In most cases, the repairs can be done in the water, with repaired areas being almost undetectable.

Print Image Signs is a local Gold Coast business, located conveniently in the thriving Boat Works shipyard in Coomera. Husband and wife, Rob and Leanne Bampton, run the signage business that specialises in marine wraps for all shapes and sizes of boats. Rob and Leanne have been working in signage for 25 years. And now, they have spent the last two years turning their extensive vinyl expertise towards a dizzying array of boats.

Having recently worked on a broad range of boats from jet skis and tinnies to large catamarans, the business just finished its largest ever mono-hull boat, the 62ft Atlas Nordhavn for local marlin

fisherman Garry Holt. The size and curves of the Atlas made it a complex project, but it was still able to be completed with an eye-catching glossy sheen and be back in the water in just a week, a mere fraction of the time it would have taken to paint.

Another recent boat wrap that received glowing feedback was one designed specifically to promote the Down Under Rally on its flagship catamaran, Songlines. Rally Director, John Hembrow said, “Songlines is now more like a floating billboard with dozens of boats stopping by Songlines to ask about the rally and the wrap. Songlines returned in December having done over 4,000 ocean miles and the wrap still looks as good as the day it was put on.” John, who, ironically, is a qualified spray painter, says that he is 100% satisfied and that it has exceeded his expectations both cosmetically and practically, as well as saving him $1,500 in yearly polishing costs.

The vinyl wrap comes in many forms – solid colours, metallic, metal flake, metal look, carbon fibre look, satin and matt finishes, a wide range of timber-look finishes for interiors and custom-printed wraps. The business also employs an in-house designer who can work with you to create some absolutely jawdropping imagery, printed with the latest HP latex large format printer, which is eco-friendly.

Print Image Signs proudly explain that no job is too small or too large for them. It doesn’t matter whether you need something as simple as a boating rego number applied, or whether you’re after a world-class look for your charter boat at a fraction of the cost and time of painting. Call on Rob and Leanne Bampton at Print Image Signs on 5502 9255, and you’ll be wrapped with the results!

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Rob Bampton cites preparation as the key to delivering such consistently stunning results. While smaller boats can be wrapped in a day, the team spend several days on larger boats, meticulously applying the wrap to ensure it looks perfect.

Another important ingredient is the quality of the vinyl, so Rob and the team use the highest grade 3M vinyl that is guaranteed for between 5 and 9 years. A lot of people are concerned the wrap will peel. This is not the case. They use 3M primers and edge sealers and they guarantee the wrap will not peel. Depending on the colour and storage conditions of your boat, it is possible to get over 10 years from your wrap.

This wrap on the Down Under Rally’s flagship catamaran Songlines not only looks great but generated a lot of additional interest in the rally.

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PARKER

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COMFORT AND SPEED

WITH INNOVATIVE HULL DESIGN

T

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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BOAT GOLD COAST

CHOOSING A POWER

To enjoy the on-water lifestyle in South East Queensland

BOAT

G

etting out on the water and going boating can be one of the most enjoyable experiences you and your family can ever experience. The hardest part is often choosing a boat to suit your needs and wants.

fibreglass bowriders, which can be fitted with wake towers to provide the ultimate family water sports boat, capable of towing the kids around or going for a cruise with mates.

Here are some key points when choosing a power boat, and a list some of the more popular models on the market to suit your lifestyle.

In aluminium, the Stacer Easy Rider bowrider range have been a very popular boat for families, as they present great value for money, yet are loaded with all the features one would expect.

The key is to establish what the target enjoyment you want out of the boating lifestyle: • Is it for water sports?

• Is it for cruising/overnighting around our majestic waterways?

• Is it fishing with a few friends?

• Is it a general-purpose boat for a family fun day out in the bay, estuaries, or dams?

By simply defining the target enjoyment, you can determine the style of boat you will consider purchasing. This decision will ensure you do not over capitalise on the boat.

If a smaller boat is all you need to do your target enjoyment, then that should be the boat you look at purchasing. Do not feel pressured to buy a big boat. If you overestimate your usage, you will over-capitalise on a boat. And nine times out of 10, it will just sit in the yard/pontoon as it is either: (a) too much trouble to prepare for an outing and then clean after an outing; or, (b) costs too much to take out, e.g. fuel etc. On the rare occasion you want to venture further afield, then you can either hire a larger boat, or go out on dedicated fishing charter or to a wake/ski park with a few mates. This sensible approach to boating ensures you have a user-friendly and economical boat that suits your main purpose.

Northside Marine caters for each of the four core boating lifestyles – water sports, cruising/overnighting, fishing, and versatile family day boats. Below are some of the popular models within the Northside Marine range suitable for these boating lifestyles.

WATER SPORTS The Malibu and Axis brands are renowned as the industry’s leading ski, wake and surf boat. This Summer 2017’s most popular water sports model has been the Malibu Wakesetter 22 VLX, a fantastic boat, designed to provide perfect wakes for wakeboarding and wakesurfing, and is super-roomy to fit everybody and everything in. Northside Marine is the hub of Malibu/Axis in Queensland. more information on If aFor fully-fledged water sports boat is a little too much Chaparral Sunesta, go to for the past few years for your lifestyle, very popular haswww.chaparralboats.com been the resurgence in sporty bowriders both or call Stefan Boating World fibreglass and aluminium.

Popular this season being (07) 5665-8400. theon Glastron GT185 and GTS185 (5.5m bowriders) which are easily towed behind larger family vehicles, with packages starting from as little as $53,990.

Northside Marine offers the Glastron range of

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CRUISING/OVERNIGHTING Whittley Cruisers (trailerable) and Jeanneau NC Series (non-trailerable) are the pinnacle of the cruising lifestyle in South East Queensland. Both these have become a benchmark for quality cruising boats that people admire and wish to own. Whittley Cruisers just make sense. They are compact enough to tow and are powered by an array of efficient power plants. They are your home away from home, providing 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 the floating apartment, the CR 2800. Each model has a versatile layout and huge breadth of ability.

After something a little bigger? The Jeanneau NC Series may be for you. These boats sport a modern saloon-style contemporary design, and range in size from 9m to 14m. These feature large entertaining areas, as well as much larger sleeping quarters and galley, compared to a trailerable model.

FISHING Ranging from a small Stacer tinnie for taking the kids whiting fishing at the Broadwater or out to the dam, through to hard-core bluewater fishing machines, such as the Stabicraft, Stacer Plate Series, Surtees and Whittley Sea Legends to chase that fish of a lifetime – Northside Marine has a trailer boat model to suit every budget and fishing needs.

Popular for inshore fishing in protected waters are the Stacer Proline, Stacer SeaSprite and Stacer Rampage range of open tinnies. These range in size from 3m through to 4.3m, with packages starting from as low as $4,990.

If you are after something a little bigger to venture further afield, the Surtees 610 Game Fisher and Stabicraft 1850 Supercab have been very popular this boating season. These are large fishing boats with plenty of cockpit space, and nifty inclusions to make your day on the water comfortable, yet are still easily towed behind most large family vehicles. If chasing marlin off the shelf is your groove, the larger models of each of these brands are definitely fishing machines, and are equally as good as each other. Some have a few more creature comforts, while others are tailored more to fishing. The hardest part with these will be choosing the one that you like the best.

FAMILY DAY BOATS Often, a family day boat is something that acts as a bit of a crossover - versatile to take the family out for a leisurely cruise, yet capable of throwing a few fishing rods in and taking a couple of mates out for a day’s fishing, or even attaching the ski tube out the back and having a blast.

The key thing with a ‘family day boat’ is to incorporate shade so the occupants do not get burnt from the harsh sun, and make the day out on the water as enjoyable as possible. This season, the Stacer Seaway, Bay Master and CrossFire series of boats have been motoring out the door. They have a nice bimini cover and handy storage solutions to keep the deck as clutter-free as possible.

They are relatively cheap to run on a day-to-day basis, and are quite easy to maintain.

Northside Marine is home to an array of well-known brands – Axis, Glastron, Jeanneau, Malibu, Stabicraft, Stacer, Surtees and Whittley. There are over 100 individual models to choose from that suit a wide variety of boating lifestyles. Check out the extensive range at Northside Marine’s 10,000m2 purpose-built boating megastore at 2294 Sandgate Rd, Boondall (only 15mins north of the Brisbane Airport), or view the range online at www.nsmarine.com.au, or call (07) 3265 8000.

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BOAT GOLD COAST

SHHHHH Secret Men’s Business Written by Peter Rhodes i ke many marine journalists, I often receive L invitations to test boats. However, I recently received an invitation that was a little out of the ordinary

– to attend a “Secret Men’s Business”. The invitation was somewhat “secretive” and exciting, and as I delved into the history of “Secret Men’s Business” (SMB), I found that this is the third in a series, and it’s not, as the name suggests “a blokes only get together”, but a very smart way of getting journalists of all genders together to launch a new marine product.

The location was down in Victoria, at the beautiful Phillip Island on Westernport Bay, an interesting choice as generally most boating and indeed testing in Victoria tends to be carried out on the larger Port Phillip Bay, Lake Eildon or expansive Gippsland Lakes.

The purpose of this year’s SMB was to have a two-day exposure to the new Suncoast 2017 range of boats from Chaparral. The Chaparral brand is now well known on our shores, and comes with a reputation as being very well designed and constructed. Of course, I was aware of the American company, Chaparral, and its Australian partners. However, I was surprised to learn of the size of the company in the USA, and indeed the number of boats they sell annually, but more of that later.

Firstly, the new Suncoast boats are bow riders with outboard engines, rather than inboard stern drives.

This configuration is not only on trend, but happens to be my favourite style of boat, so I was interested right from the start.

There are three (3) models in the range, and a couple of different configurations within those models, being Sport and Ski/Fish. The Ski/Fish version includes live bait tank, trolling motor, rod storage and holders, interchangeable seating and fold out casting decks. It is possible to order most of these fishing components individually or in package form on all models.

Suncoast are the first of the Chaparral stable to use outboard engines in over 25 years. The choice of engines for our test session was predominantly Honda, with one Mercury in the mix. Engine choice, however, can be left to the purchaser and best discussed with your local Chaparral dealer.

The first thing you notice is the striking design modern, but still with traditional boat lines that appeal to us romantics at heart and then the massive swim platform, which was brilliant and unusual for an outboard boat. The seating arrangement throughout the range was great. Chaparral Australia made sure that each boat had a minimum of four to five adults (sometimes more) on board at all times, to ensure the testing was real. But we were all very comfortable, with plenty of room to move about, particularly when working the boat while fishing or setting up for waterskiing.

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The bow was open and inviting, with the ability to seat four adults comfortably without affecting the balance of the boat. It was clear that these are very versatile, safe and family-orientated boats, and moving from the main cockpit area to the bow while underway was safe and easy, reassuring for Mum when fidgety little people have a habit of running amok without notice.

It is interesting to note that the 210 model ran both 150 HP to 200 HP. So, depending on your performance requirements, the ability to run less horsepower also means lower up front purchase cost, lower fuel usage, cheaper insurance, less trailer weight and lower servicing costs. This just adds to the versatility of the range and opens the door for people whose budgets do not stretch so far.

On the 230 Suncoast, which was running the Honda 250 HP, we tested the performance with some skiers behind the boat. The Honda pulled the skiers up with ease, and true to Chaparral doctrine, had the added advantage of being just as home in salt, as in fresh, water.

In all four boats, we experienced as many different water conditions as possible, making Westernport Bay an excellent choice, with the popular holiday playground turning on some beautiful warm weather for the first day of summer. To start with, we had flat conditions for skiing, and as the wind came up in the afternoon it became a little choppier. This was good, as I started to understand the research behind the hull designs.

We went out to the heads of Westernport Bay off San Remo, where we had a 1.5 to 2-metre swell. From here, we did some power running in the choppier conditions just to see how well the boat and hull performed, given that it will be driven by many different skippers with different levels of expertise, the boats came up trumps - stable, comfortable and fully controllable - so much so that even a novice skipper, with care, could handle the conditions.

All boats in the Suncoast range are trailable, hitting the scales at around 3200 kg for the big 250, and have surprising amount of interior space. For instance, in the 210, we had seven adults aboard at one stage, and with the Honda 200 HP outboard, it had no problems powering us through the water. The 150 HP struggled to get going when fully loaded but still performed well once up, and would be ideal for the Ski/Fish version of the boat with three or four on board. I know the dealer was still playing with propeller choices, so I have no doubt the 150 HP would still suit most buyers.

I wish we had the space here to delve more into the technology side of this range. In recent years, technology has dramatically improved all aspects of boat design and function. The Extended V-Plane Running Surface of the hull really works. But I hear you say, “A nice fancy name, but what does it do?”

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BOAT GOLD COAST

“I was seriously impressed by the hull, the construction, and seating plans. But what impressed me most were the thought and a noncompromising approach that go into each boat.”

...Chaparral reveals what really happens ‘Extended V-Plane’ means you are getting full use of your boat’s length. This has probably less to do with faster top speeds, but more to do with the ability to get onto plane quicker and stay on plane at slower speeds, a point which I think is very important. How many times, as you power up your boat, or you are driving at slow speeds, do you find it difficult to see over the bow and you are running blind? This fixes the problem to a large degree and has the added bonus of saving fuel. The patented hull design meant that the boat was on the plane at 12 knots with minimal bow rise. So in my book, it works!

I know this may sound trite, but Chaparral designers really do listen to the feedback from their customers, and it shows. Everywhere you look, small but important features demonstrate the care and attention that goes into the design. Stainless steel gas struts to hold up hatch lids – not mild steel, friction hinges, self lubricating pop up cleats, nitrogen filled dash gauges, diamond tread non-skid surfaces, cup holders everywhere and even the interior cushions are designed to spring back to shape immediately after sitting or standing, preventing stretch and providing a longer life. All these are small things individually, but are all designed to make general use, particularly in salt water, easier and collectively provide longevity to what is a major investment in your family’s hard won leisure time. Smart Mr Chaparral - I like it!

An innovative feature in the bow was a standard telescopic boarding ladder, making it easy to hop off the boat when run up on the beach. At the stern, a truly inspiring feature was the integrated walk around swim platform offering the best access in the OB engine area of any design I have seen. It is an industry leading design and something I have longed for. But there is more. All models offer transom seating for those lazy days at anchor, dangling feet in the water – so smart and practicable for getting on and off the boat at the dock or preparing to ski, fish or just for relaxing. This to me is what boating is all about.

The other major feature, which was for me the piece de’ resistance, was that all three models feature an enclosed toilet area, or head compartment, providing total privacy. I was truly impressed with this, as it has been a bone of contention in my family for many years.

Needless to say, my wife, who was one of the ‘Secret Women’ at the SMB, was impressed as well.

After the first day of on-water activity, we had a presentation night from the folks at Chaparral Australia.

Now, if I had mentioned Chaparral boats ten years ago, you probably would have looked at me with confusion. A few privateers were bringing boats into Australia, but they were mainly the bigger boats.

However, if you fast track to 2016, the name rings with the sound of innovation, quality and performance, and a company that is growing in leaps and bounds. When you look at the boating industry in Australia now, we see, under the Chaparral brand name, a plethora of

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boats for all aspects of boating, cruising and fishing, all with different configurations, with model names like, Vortex, H20, and Suncoast under the Chaparral banner and the dedicated fishing range, Robalo.

Here is something that did surprise me. Chaparral is not the biggest marine company in the world, BUT it does sell more boats in the world than, er... the other well-known company you may be thinking of, and they have been building boats since 1964!

The “secret” in the SMB was actually the fabulous accommodation and headquarters, which was a huge 60-square convention home between Cowes & Rhyll, on Phillip Island. Extremely conducive for a bit of fun, and of course work, and gave organisers, Scott and Dani O’Hare from Chaparral Australia, the opportunity to talk to journalists on a oneon-one basis. Also present, were suppliers that Chaparral have partnered with, all quality brands, such as Easytow Trailers, Honda outboard engines and Garmin electronics. Each gave a 15-minute presentation of their products, and how they gel with the Suncoast range - again giving journalists an insight to the boat and equipment on board.

These days, boats are becoming more like cars. We really do like our comfort and gadgets, and are tending to buy more quality product rather than cheaper entry level. I believe the boating industry is following that trend. In saying that, when I was looking at the dashboard and ancillary equipment in this range are more akin to an upmarket car than a boat.

I understand that no boat is perfect, and to this end, when I test a boat, I go in with a certain number of points, and I deduct points when I see things that could be improved or I felt there were bad design features or quality issues. Although this story is not a test of individual boats, I did walk away from each boat struggling to see how many points I might actually deduct. Maybe a bit more knick-knack storage around the helm area for phones and sunscreen, but that was about all I could pick after two days of boating!

I love the romance of boating. I like fishing, cruising, entertaining and overnighting in a tent on the beach.

When I looked closely at each of the models in the Suncoast range, I could see myself owning one as they all fitted my needs beautifully. I was seriously impressed by the hull, the construction, and seating plans. But what impressed me most were the thought and a non-compromising approach that go into each boat.

Made in the USA, but very, very much at home here in Australia, the Suncoast range deserves your attention and is well worth a look.

For more information, visit the Chaparral website www.chaparralboats.com, call the Queensland Dealer Australian Marine Centre on (07) 3808 7333 or Chaparral Australia on (03) 9397-6977.

Written by Peter Rhode 41

BOAT GUIDE JOURNEY

MANLY For the boaties, Manly is the place to find a number of boating businesses that can address various needs.

Boaties are well catered for by long-time institution Muir Marine, which carries 10,000 product lines, and anything from a boat hook to a new anchor.

Yacht brokers Mike Davidson and Geoff Marsh, from Oceana Yacht Brokers and The Yacht Brokerage, respectively, are always happy to have a chat about all-things boating. Their window displays are truly the stuff of dreams.

Popular Horseshoe Bay on Peel Island

any years ago, I wandered into the small M harbour-side village of Manly near Brisbane and fell in love. It has just about everything a boatie could desire: numerous boating clubs and marinas, a bustling but laid-back café and shopping precinct, and protected sailing with plenty of places to explore on Moreton Bay. Today, I call the area home and my early impressions of Manly have been cemented. In fact, one year on from settling here, I realise I have only just scratched the surface.

Manly is only 19km from Brisbane, so it is only a short train or bus ride into the city, if you want to go exploring.

THE VILLAGE Manly Village is the hub of the action, with a plethora of cafes, restaurants, a hotel, bakery, chemist, and IGA supermarket. There is even a heated public swimming pool.

The farmer’s markets every second Saturday, and weekly craft markets every Sunday on the esplanade are a major drawcard. But there is a busy list of other kinds of attractions, including outdoor movies.

The Aboriginal Mipirimm people were the original inhabitants of Manly. The European settlement started in the 1860s. The area became a popular seaside location by the early 1900s.

The friendly staff at the Wynnum Manly tourist information centre on the William Gun Jetty near the pool can also answer questions and supply you with an armful of brochures.

WHERE TO STAY Adjacent to the Village fronting the Royal Esplanade, you will find more than 1,500 marina berths in four marinas.

Most visitors opt to berth in a marina. There is no close-at-hand all-weather anchorage the locals recommend, apart from Waterloo Bay off Wellington Point just outside the harbour, which is only comfortable in winds under 25 knots.

The Moreton Bay Trailer Boat Club (MBTBC) is right across from Manly Village, and next to the Wynnum Manly Yacht Club (WMYC), the East Coast Marina, and the Royal Queensland Yacht Squadron (RQYS).

Just around the corner to the north up the Brisbane River is the Rivergate Marina and Shipyard.

The Royal Queensland Yacht Squadron (RQYS) welcomes all varieties of boat owners. It is a mecca for competitive sailing, with the social Wednesday Afternoon Go Sailing (WAGS) race on Wednesdays, and the more serious point-score-type racing on Saturdays and Sundays. The Squadron has a very active sail-training program, which has proven successful at the international level. Five of the eleven sailors who represented Australia at the 2016 Rio Olympics hailed from this club.

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The Moreton Bay Trailer Boat Club (MBTBC) and Wynnum Manly Yacht Club (WMYC) also welcome boaties of every variety, and both have restaurants and bars (although the yacht club’s clubhouse is only open part-time, so check before visiting).

Despite their multi-million-dollar water views, the food and drink prices at the clubs are competitive, with some enticing specials. My favourites include the two-for-one meal option at the Squadron Harbour View Restaurant at RQYS on Thursday nights, and the $12.90 steak lunch at MBTBC, Mondays to Saturdays.

The East Coast Marina is a commercial marina and does not have a clubhouse. It has a café and excellent liveaboard facilities, plus a multimillion-dollar dry-stack development.

The clubs have their own boat ramps, but use of these is normally restricted to members. However, there is an excellent multi-lane public boat ramp on the north side of the MBTBC. If you want to leave your trailerable on the hardstand overnight, you can leave it in the car park here. But if you prefer a secure hardstand, the RQYS has limited hardstand trailerable spaces available for short-term visitors, as does the East Coast Marina.

All marinas have travel-lifts and hardstand areas where you can slip your boat to have work done, with mechanics and shipwrights and other essential trades on tap. The clubs also have visitor’s wharves where you can stop for a quick meal or drink – but make sure to call first. If you need a marina berth, you have to book well in advance because demand for casual berths is high.

EXPLORING ON WATER Deciding where to go will be difficult because you are truly spoiled for choice.

On the eastern side of Moreton Bay protecting the bay from the open ocean, you have Moreton

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A VISITING BOATIE’S GUIDE

By Caroline Strainig Photos by Caroline Strainig, Queensland Tourism & Events, MBTBC, RQYS

Island to the north and North Stradbroke Island to the south. Moreton Island has the famous Tangalooma wrecks, while North Stradbroke has the popular anchorage of Deanbilla Bay, and the Dunwich Little Ship Club.

Offshore from Manly, you will find the islands that locals love for a quick getaway - Green, St Helena and Peel Islands.

Green Island is the closest, so it is the most popular. It has a sandy beach and reasonable anchorage on the western side, so it is protected from easterlies and north-easterlies. It is a great spot to escape the madding crowds, and enjoy a sundowner looking back on the city lights.

St Helena, to the north of Green Island, boasts the ruins of a historic convict settlement. A commercial company conducts guided tours on Wednesdays and Sundays, and you can join for just $30 if you are visiting in your own boat. By the end of the tour, you will feel like you have met the convicts who were incarcerated here because all the guides dress in character and play their parts with glee. The main anchorage at St Helena Island is next to the jetty at the southwestern corner of the island, so it is protected from easterlies. The toilet block is only open when tours are on.

Peel Island is a short motor to the south of Green Island, towards Dunwich on North Stradbroke Island.

Peel was a leper colony and some ruins remain today (although long-time locals tell me there is no public access because they contain asbestos). The main anchorage is Horseshoe Bay on the southern side, so it is protected from north-westerlies. Peel Island boasts a lovely sandy beach and has a national parks pit toilet. If the wind turns, Lazarette Gutter on the north side of the island is comfortable in southeasterly through southwesterly winds. Take care navigating around the island because of numerous coral outcrops, and a wreck off the south side.

While you are at Peel Island, nip across to the Little Ship Club, located on the waterfront of the One Mile anchorage in Dunwich on North Stradbroke.

You can pull up to the sandy beach or the back of their jetty. This Club really pumps on the weekend, but with a laid-back kind of island vibe you will find hard to tear yourself away from.

The RQYS has moorings at a couple of the islands which can be booked via their reception.

And last, but by no means least, the Brisbane River just north of Manly makes a great day trip when it is windy out in the bay. You can find limited anchoring room upriver, or leave your boat at the Rivergate Marina and Shipyard not far from the river’s mouth, and catch a ferry to get around. Mud Island just outside (north of St Helena Island) has a reasonable anchorage on the northwest side, protected from south-easterlies.

Safety-wise, there are a few things to be aware of.

While Moreton Bay is protected, it is quite shallow.

A sharp chop up to two metres can develop when the wind picks up, so it is wise to avoid strong winds against the tide. Also note that the Port of Brisbane to the north of Manly is a major port, with very busy shipping traffic. It is advised to stay out of the shipping channels as much as you can and keep a keen eye out. Needless to say, you should always remember to log on with the Coast Guard before heading out.

Exploring Manly is a great adventure for any boatie (and non-boatie too!). A visit here will leave you with many exciting stories and experiences – from the cityscape views to the laid-back island adventures.

Manly Boat Harbour: 27°27’12.7”S, 153°11’29.9”E (approx.)

Distance from the Gold Coast Seaway: 40nm (approx.)

(Editor’s Note: For tips on how to navigate to Brisbane from the Gold Coast, visit http:// boatgoldcoast.com.au/gold-coast-to-brisbane/)

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CONTACTS AT A GLANCE Marinas Royal Queensland Yacht Squadron: www.rqys. com.au, ph 3396 8666, marina ph 07 3393 3554.

Facilities: water, ice (at club), travel-lift, slipping and trailerable hardstand, two in-house restaurants East Coast Marina: www.eastcoastmarina.com.au, ph 07 3393 3811. Facilities: café, water, ice, pumpout, travel-lift, slipping, trailerable hardstand Moreton Bay Trailer Boat Club: www.mbtbc.com, club ph 07 3396 8161, marina ph 07 3893 0810.

Facilities: water, fuel, ice (at club), dump point,travel-lift, slipping hardstand (trailerable full), in-house bar, restaurant Wynnum Manly Yacht Club: www.wmyc.com.au, club ph 07 3393 5708, marina ph 07 3396 4639.

Facilities: water, ice (at club), pump-out/dump point, travel-lift, slipping hardstand (trailerable full), inhouse bar and restaurant (open part-time), café Rivergate Marina and Shipyard, www.rivergate.com. au, ph 07 3907 1600. Facilities: café, water, pump-out, hardstand for slipping, travel-lift (up to 300 tonnes) Marine Rescue Weekends: Coast Guard Brisbane (6-10pm Friday, 6am-6pm Sat and Sunday); Log on with Coast Guard Brisbane (base next to the public boat ramp), ph 07 3396 5911, call sign VMR402 Weekdays: Marine Radio Manly (6am to 6pm weekdays), call sign VKQ447, ph 07 3396 2778 Tourism Information Wynnum Manly Tourism Centre, William Gunn Jetty 1, Wyvernleigh Cl, Manly, 07 3348 3524 Manly Harbour Village: www.manlyharbourvillage.com St Helena tours: www.sthelenaisland.rezdy.com, ph 1300438787 Yacht Brokers Geoff @ The Yacht Brokerage, ph 0438 455 301 Mike @ Oceana Yacht Brokers, ph 0418 741 581

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WAN T TO COME SA ILI NG...

B U T DON’ T H AVE A BOAT YE T ?

IT’S AFFORDABLE. IT’S ACCESSIBLE. IT’S ONLY AT RQYS.

COME SAIL ON OUR BOATS AT THE ROYAL QUEENSLAND YACHT SQUADRON

The Royal Queensland Yacht Squadron is now offering future and existing members the opportunity to learn, train and sail on Squadron vessels as part of their latest membership initiative.

RQYS recently attained the prestigious Australian Sailing Club of the Year award for its significant contribution to the sport of sailing, and is also home to five out of 11 members of the Australian sailing team – the most successful sailing team at the recent 2016 Olympic Games. This national and international recognition reaffirms the Squadron’s status as one of Australia’s great yacht clubs, and recognises RQYS as a leading architect of on-water opportunities for people of all ages and abilities.

Royal Queensland Yacht Squadron General Manager Shawn Ket said that this new membership category meets an increasing demand to cater for potential sailing members who are yet to purchase a vessel. “RQYS has put in place a membership option for new and existing members who want to go sailing regularly but don’t yet have a boat,” Mr Ket said.

This commitment to facilitating enjoyment of and success in on-water activity is what underpins this new initiative, which not only supports potential sailors but also to a growing class of boat. RQYS Sponsor Multihull Central have supplied two new multihull Corsair Pulse 600’s which add to the Squadron’s existing fleet of six Elliott 6’s in order to make this program possible.

The combination of these two boats adds appeal and diversity of sailing options to those interested in the sport of sailing as well as increases RQYS’s capacity to facilitate on-water participation in the sport. As part of the membership and sailing “package”, RQYS will also arrange crewing opportunities for weekday and weekend sailing on members’ division racing boats.

This package has been developed in response to member demand and with an eye on Ronstan CEO Alistair Murray’s Global Sailing Trends, presented to the Australian Yacht Club Managers’ Group in April 2016.

THIS PACKAGE INCLUDES:

Mr Murray notes the need to cater for changing trends toward recreational sailing activity and family inclusiveness as well as a growing enthusiasm for multihull sailing.

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“The market is calling for less serious racing, more leisurely activities, an emphasis on recreation and a focus on time with family and friends,” Mr Murray wrote. “Sailing is exciting, great for kids, healthy, safe, social, family oriented and in tune with the environment. So sailing must be packaged accordingly with more time efficient and time friendly offerings.”

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Mr Ket said the Royal Queensland Yacht Squadron is actively harnessing and implementing the lessons learnt from Mr Murray’s research through this initiative.

“This membership package will also work to bridge the transition between youth sailing, and the aging average adult yacht purchasing age,” Mr Ket said. “It will also mean that members and their families can enjoy their weekends together on the water, ultimately creating more pathways for participation and engagement in sailing at all levels – racing or recreation.”

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RQYS Crew Membership Complete for new members, or as an upgrade for existing members Family Membership Options Enjoy a 10% discount when signing up as a family (membership from one adult category plus one junior or young adult membership) 20 half day sails per year Training and supervision provided under the RQYS Sailing Academy

Royal Queensland Yacht Squadron 578 Royal Esplanade, Manly. QLD. 4178 FEB NOV - APRIL - JAN 2017 07 3396 8666 ~ www.rqys.com.au

BOAT JOURNEY

ADVENTURE UNDER THE SAILS OF SOUTH PASSAGE

S

outh Passage is a 100-foot (30.5m), gaff-rigged schooner. Based on the designs of the 19th century pilot schooners that operated off the east coast of America, South Passage was launched in 1993. South Passage is classified as a Class C tall ship, the only sail training ship in Queensland and one of the few sailing in Australia.

She is sailed in the traditional way. Everything is done manually – there are no winches or mechanical aids. Sails are raised and lowered by hand and just about every activity requires a number of people working together as a team. Apart from the engine, the only mechanical equipment on board is an electric anchor winch, but usually students wind a manual capstan to raise the anchor. South Passage was designed specifically for 14-17 year olds to experience Adventure under Sail. She has taken over 40,000 students sailing over the last 20 years. Her rig is relatively simple and everything can be managed from the deck.

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South Passage is owned and operated by the nonprofit organisation The Sail Training Association of Qld Inc. Members of the association are all volunteers, many with a background in sailing, and all with a desire to make a difference in the lives of young people. Their mission is to provide safe and challenging experiences for young men and women using the ship as a medium to develop leadership, initiative, independence and self-discipline.

South Passage voyages north to Cairns in autumn/ winter and returns to Manly in Queensland on the shores of Moreton Bay in the spring. In the early summer, she voyages south to Sydney returning in late January for her annual spell out of the water for maintenance.

Voyages can be as short as a day sail or up to a week (or even longer). The 5-day voyages prove most satisfying because it is long enough for the students

to become accustomed to life aboard and to develop their skills and confidence.

Learn more about the programs, the crew and the voyages of South Passage by visiting www.southpassage.org.au or ph: 07 3893 3777.

A voyage on South Passage can be designed to achieve a range of goals such as: • Developing leadership skills and personal confidence • Encouraging teamwork, cooperation and consideration • Bonding a group together in a shared and challenging experience • Building seamanship and ship handling skills • Creating an awareness of the wonders and fragility nature • Providing a platform for access to and study of the marine environment.

45

BOAT GOLD COAST

QTS - YOUR TOTAL TRAILER SOLUTIONS Q

ueensland Trailer Spares (QTS) are a family-owned business focused on providing a one-stop-trailer shop for sales, services and repairs to most makes and models.

Our comprehensive range of trailer parts and service are backed by the highest levels of customer satisfaction at the most competitive rate. We pride ourselves on these values!

SPARE PARTS - At QTS, you can purchase parts required to build or rebuild your trailer to on-road safety standards. QTS hold a wide range of high quality parts for immediate purchase.

Available parts are hydraulic brakes, brake drums, electric and mechanical brakes, disc brakes, and Hydrastar and Electrastar brake controllers. Other parts include couplings, springs, bolts, axles, brushes, wheels, hubs and mudguards, as well as other special components for marine, camping and towing, whether on-road or off-road.

AL-KO DEALER - QTS are an authorized international dealer for AL-KO trailer parts, the leading manufacturer and supplier of high quality components for caravans, box and boat trailers. Majority of caravan manufacturers in Australia choose to use AL-KO parts as original equipment, and a similar number in the RV segments. So, when an owner of a caravan, camper trailer, boat trailer, box trailer or horse float requires replacement parts, it is highly likely that the equipment they are replacing is AL-KO. REPAIRS & MODIFICATIONS - We perform on-site, all-type trailer repairs and modifications, including rust removal and cross-member cut-outs. Our equipment are able to weld stainless steel and aluminium. Our staff are highly experienced and can offer design ideas and practical advice.

INSPECTIONS - We can arrange fast and competitive insurance assessments, Heavy Vehicle Registration Assessment Scheme (HVRAS), and Roadworthy Certificates.

Advance bookings required.

TRAILER TYPES •St andard Boxes •Boat •BBQ •Tradetop •Van Body

•Canoe •Motorcycle •Camping •Horse Floats

46

FEB - APRIL 2017

BOAT GUIDE

OFF-ROAD DRIVING and

on s

4WD around Moreton Bay

By Andy Kancachian

With information from Queensland Government, Depart. of National Parks, Sport and Racing

D

riving on the sand is a very exciting experience for the entire family when discovering remote parts of the country. Cruising up the beach with the windows down, the sound system blaring, and the wind blowing in your hair, make for a memorable family vacation.

In South East Queensland, newcomers to 4x4 driving will usually have their first off-road experience on sand.

However, if you get it wrong, you may be hours away from help while placing those you love in serious danger.

Without the right knowledge, a debut on sand can lead to disasters such as getting stuck in quicksand, rolling your car down a dune, or even floating away with the tide.

Driving on sand requires special care. The driver must be prepared for the ever-changing sand environment.

By following the tips set out below, you will help protect these areas, and have a safe enjoyable visit.

Research your location - In Australia, most beach driving locations are well documented by your car hire company. The local council and tourist information websites, and other online resources outline in detail which beaches permit the use of vehicles. At more popular locations, there will be clearly marked access routes and signage explaining where you can and cannot go. To avoid unnecessary damage to the already fragile ecosystems, it is advisable to use established access routes, which are typically better options for your vehicle. Pay attention to signs, avoid night driving, and remember that not all beaches are safe to drive on.

Prepare your Vehicle - The lighter your 4WD, the less likely it will be stuck in soft sand. Reduce your load by removing any objects, fixtures or fittings that will not be required for the trip. Load your vehicle evenly, with heavy items stored low. Uneven or heavy loads on roof racks can cause a vehicle to roll over. By packing smart, it will be easier to have your passengers alight and to offload your gear from the vehicle before driving out of a sticky situation.

You need adequate distance under your vehicle. Do not bottom out on the crests, which will cause you to slow and become bogged. The clearance between the ground and underside of the car should be greater than 18cm.

You can lower your tyre pressure to increase the surface area making contact with the sand. This will provide better traction on slippery surfaces. For most 4WD vehicles that have a recommended road driving pressure of 32-38psi, you can lower pressure to 25psi, but not lower than 18psi. Note that some sand driving areas around Australia require an even lower tyre pressure, so it is best to research advice about each location. Be mindful that low tyre pressure means the vehicle will respond differently, such as delay in steering and braking response times. Remember to always re-inflate your tyres to the recommended pressure when you drive back on sealed surfaces.

Before you drive onto the sand, engage locking hubs and 4WD. While driving, select low gears for soft, dry sand, and avoid sharp turns and sudden braking.

Be Prepared for whatever - Driving on the sand will require you to be constantly alert for potential hazards.

Check the times for low tide using a tides chart. You should travel on the sand at low tide, or within two hours either before or after low tide. This is the best time, as the sand will be firm and you will have time to reach your destination. You should choose a driving line on the harder sand between the waterline and the high tide mark. Avoid the salt water.

Take care in crossing creeks and streams where you may become stuck. Before crossing, it is best to check the depth of the water by walking across the creek.

While driving with your 4WD, never stop mid-stream to avoid getting stuck.

Sand does not provide much traction. To avoid becoming bogged, you must maintain a momentum or be slightly increasing your speed. If you do become stuck, which

is inevitable, accept this fact as part of your off-road experience. You should have all the essential recovery equipment to help get you out, such as a shovel, a towrope, a snatch strap, shackles, traction tracks, a winch, a lift jack, and a compressor.

Obey the rules - Even if the surface you are driving on may be different, the normal road rules apply on the beach and on inland tracks. Never drive tired or under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Use your indicators when overtaking or turning. Keep to the left of oncoming traffic. All persons in the vehicle must wear seatbelts at all times. The speed limits apply on beaches, so know what they are, while you obey the road signs.

You are driving on the sand for fun and recreation, so make it an enjoyable and positive experience by being overly courteous to others. Keep a safe distance behind other vehicles. Always give way to traffic coming downhill. Heavy vehicles and those with trailers have right-of-way in most situations. Always use the passing bays provided, and slow down and drive carefully where there are pedestrians.

Be mindful of the environment you are in. Respect flora and fauna in the area. It is illegal to drive across sand dunes or over coastal vegetation. Drive slowly around, not through, flocks of birds. Beaches and dunes are important breeding and roosting sites for birds. Be aware, from November to March the sand dunes along the southeast coastline are nesting and hatching sites for green and loggerhead turtles. If you are approached by dingoes, stay in your vehicle.

Driving on the beach is a wildly exciting way to enjoy the coastlines. Your primary responsibility is to ensure that you and your passengers are safe. Take your time and operate your vehicle mindfully to avoid injury, while enjoying the wonders of the natural surroundings.

In an emergency Dial 000. If no mobile reception, try 112.

Carry a well-stocked first-aid kit and know how to use it.

WEâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;VE GOT YOU COVERED ON & OFF THE ROAD

PH: BOATGOLDCOAST.COM. AU

47

BOAT JOURNEY

North Straddie

MOVING ON

E

xploring the plentiful natural beauty of Queensland is not the most arduous of tasks, especially when you are lucky enough to call the Gold Coast home.

With enough beaches, scenic lookouts, waterfalls, rainforest hikes, and sunrise views to make even the most unexcitable traveler stop and praise the sweet skills of Mother Nature, we would be doing your eyes a major disservice not to mention the neighbouring natural wonders of North Stradbroke Island.

Photos of Quandamooka people

Known as Minjerribah to the native title-holders of the island - the Quandamooka people, whose cultural heritage stretches back some 20,000 years - the island is currently home to approximately 2,000 residents, about 400 of which are Indigenous. While it is also home to 180 local businesses, 70 percent of which are tourism-based, only six major industries support the majority of North Stradbroke’s economy, namely accommodation and food services, mining, health care and social assistance, retail trade, construction, and education and training. The island receives an average expenditure of $111 million from its 800,000 annual visitors.

Being the second largest sand island in the world, after Australia’s Fraser Island, North Stradbroke accommodates sand mining that naturally emerged as a major industry in the late 1940s. The Sibelcorun sand mining leases continue to prevent access to approximately 40 percent of the island, including an area of national park. Recent controversy has surfaced concerning the negative effects of sand mining on more than 700 hectares of high dune habitat, wetlands, endangered animal species, and an underlying aquifer, not to mention the island’s overall water quality. In 2010, the Labor Government made a promise to the Quandamooka people to end mining activities by 2019, a promise they followed through on with the North Stradbroke Island Protection & Sustainability Act 2011 (NSIPSA).

Looking to Fraser Island and Moreton Island as examples, both of which successfully moved away from the timber and whale processing industries to focus more on tourism, North Stradbroke is set to follow in their footsteps with a $29-million Economic Transition Strategy to implement sustainable, ecotourism-based businesses, expand education and training opportunities, and stimulate local 48

business development and growth. With the obvious success of Fraser Island’s Kingfisher Bay Resort, which employs 600 staff members who live and work on the island and whose island-wide visitor numbers doubled in the 15 years after logging was ended, it seems that North Straddie accepts that imitation truly is the sincerest form of flattery.

Though a 2013 amendment to the North Stradbroke Island Protection & Sustainability Act threatened to renew the mining leases until 2035 without the consent of the Quandamooka people, the amendment received considerable pushback from the Federal Government under breach of the Queensland Legislative Standards Act of 1992.

However, that is not where the controversy ends. In response to the government-mandated sand mining phase-out, Sibelco claimed 650 workers would be adversely affected by the closure, when in fact, as confirmed by the members of the local community, the real number is only around six percent of that, or approximately 41 resident sand miners. As a benefit to these displaced employees, a Toondah Harbour Revitalisation Proposal was later set forth by the Queensland Government in partnership with Redland City Council and private developer, the Walker Group, calling for the use of 50 hectares of Moreton Bay’s Ramsar wetlands and the further construction of 3,600 apartments and a 400-berth marina. While the Federal Government’s decision to accept or reject this proposal has currently been suspended for a record six times until July 2017, conservationists like Friends of Stradbroke Island (FOSI) and the Australian Conservation Foundation (ACF) have made their opposition known, arguing that a modest upgrade to the Toondah Harbour Ferry Terminal is all that is necessary for the relatively small number of affected mining employees.

Photos of Toondah Harbour plan

Looking forward, it is clear that North Stradbroke still faces a fair amount of uncertainty and mixed emotions, both from residents and business owners alike.

While Quandamooka Yoolooburrabee Aboriginal Corporation (QYAC) CEO Cameron Costello’s vision is to create “a global eco cultural tourism destination that showcases the island’s natural beauty and 20,000 year old Quandamooka cultural heritage,” a reported survey released in February of 2016 states that 52 percent of businesses wanted mining to continue until

By Kelsey Love

2025 or 2035, and 32 percent did not want it to end at all. Still, with Sibelco’s mandatory participation in a “rebirthing” program to rehabilitate the affected mined land of North Straddie, focusing on tactics like weed management and control of the local fox populations, along with opportunities for Indigenous business development programs, nature and adventurebased tourism activities, expansion of the market for educational tourism events, and further development of existing tourism concepts, the sky’s the limit.

To reinforce their support for the transition, the Queensland Government in December 2016 has allocated up to $5 million for the Workers Assistance Scheme, available for five years up to 2021. The scheme aims to assist affected workers transition to alternative employment, including job search support, training and skills support, housing assistance, commuting subsidy, income supplementation, and dislocation assistance.

Noting that the mines currently limit visitors’ and locals’ access to valuable Aboriginal heritage sites, Environment Minister Steven Miles also draws attention to possibilities in the further development of local Quandamooka resident businesses, such as seafood harvesting, fish processing, nature-based tours, timber products, and traditional medicine.

No matter your opinion on the future of the island, an upcoming visit to learn more about its fascinating history, culture and landscape is certainly in order.

PLAN YOUR TRIP By boat: You can plan a trip from the Gold Coast by boat and take advantage of the many opportunities for island hopping on Southern Moreton Bay. Check for available anchorages and moorings in Dunwich. For island hopping tips, visit http://boatgoldcoast.com. au/island-hopping-on-moreton-bay/. While on the island, you can take the public buses from Dunwich to Amity and Point Lookout, and back. Be sure to check the bus schedules beforehand for convenience. (And in case you miss the bus, there is a good chance that a local will be happy to give you a ride.)

Dunwich coordinates: 27.5000° S, 153.4000° E (approx.)

Gold Coast Seaway to Dunwich: 35nm (approx.)

By land: There are several ferries that take passengers and vehicles to Dunwich from Cleveland. Hire a 4WD vehicle and reserve a spot on a vehicle ferry from Cleveland. From Dunwich, take a drive along the gorgeous Flinders and Main Beaches (permit required for 4WD) and the sand tracks weaving through the Old Pine Forest and bushland, taking time to stop and enjoy the sand, surf and sun at popular hangouts like Cylinder Beach, the North Gorge Walk and Brown Lake.

FEB - APRIL 2017

BOAT GOLD COAST Many boating critics now argue that when a comparison is made with regard to what the inflatable boat can offer in terms of performance, payload and comfort, inflatable boats now offer a lot more in terms of value for money.

There are many myths that exist about the vulnerability of the multiple air chambers in an inflatable boat. One of the strongest arguments in favour of inflatables is that, if the armed forces are happy to use inflatables where there is a good risk of being shot at, then the ordinary family should also feel safe.

Inflatable boats are easy to maintain. Punctures are not a common occurrence and are also relatively easily fixed.

6 REASONS WHY YOU ARE BETTER OFF WITH AN

Inflatable Boat

o u may have noticed an increasing amount of inflatable boats or RIBs on the Gold Coast Y waterways over the last few years. This is not surprising

when you consider the fact that the military, police and rescue organisations use inflatables boats/RIBs as their primary vessel. The increased popularity is also a result of their superior safety features, and ability to go where very few conventional craft can go. There are many that also claim that inflatables have a superior payload, offer a dry comfortable ride, and have a great ability to handle adverse sea conditions.

Most of us want these characteristics and the ability to have fun at the same time. RIB Force Inflatables are satisfying the growing demand for inflatables with the increasing supply of premium AB Inflatables and Aurora Inflatables, which offers a range of over 140 models.

Inflatable boats or RIBs are born in Europe and the dominant boat in Europe due to their superior features.

They are also the boat of choice in many areas of the world, including the USA, Canada, New Zealand and South Africa. As more and more discover the incredible performance and comfort of inflatable boats,

they are realising the misinformation that was spread about inflatables in the past. As one critic stated, “One ride in an inflatable RIB turned my tinny into a poor comparison.” When you compare the payload of a 3.1m inflatable compared to a 3.1m tinny, research has shown that the inflatable can carry more than double the amount of passengers than the tinny. Moreover, the areas where inflatables are allowed under the CE certification include areas where a tinny is not permitted.

Inflatable boats offer a high degree of sophistication with stylish lines, incredible stability, peak performance, and excellent handling. The choice in terms of application stretches from a small 2-metre roll-up for fishing to a high-tech warship. At the bottom end of the scale, an acceptable inflatable boat will cost as little as $1,000, while at the top end of the market, there are inflatable boats that sell for in excess of $2.5 million.

In times gone by, tinnies and conventional boats were cheaper than inflatable boats. However, due to increasing safety demands by authorities, the cost of tinnies and conventional craft has increased dramatically. There is now very little difference in price.

There are now a number of extremely tough fabrics that are used in the construction of the tubes, such as chorosulfonated polyethylene (CSM) (also known to some by the brand name Hypalon), polyurethane (PU), and polyvinyl chloride (PVC). These materials are abrasive-resistant.

Have you ever watched videos of commandos in a military inflatable speeding into and up onto a beach, or seen how the Thundercat racers hit the sand?

These examples are clear evidence of the strength and durability of inflatables.

RIB Force Inflatables repair and service division has worked on some inflatables boats that are more than 30 years old, and are still in very good condition.

RIB Force Inflatables is one of the largest Mercury engine dealers in Australia, and can also provide professional advice and information about your power needs.

To learn more about an inflatable boat, or inspect the range of inflatable boats from AB Inflatables, Aurora Inflatables, or Mercury Inflatables, talk to Mike and Diana Orsmond and the team of friendly and helpful professionals at RIB Force Inflatable Boats. RIB Force is located in the Marine Precinct at Shop 7, Gold Coast City Marina 58-74 Waterway Drive, Coomera, City of Gold Coast, Queensland.

Ph: 1800 742 367 or visit www.RibForceInflatables.com.au.

UTI LI S I N G TH E R M O - LITE B O A R D

P

acific Blue Cruisecat managing director, James Keay, is now utilising ThermoLite in all of his new builds to replace conventional marine plywood. ThermoLite is a unique product, and a smart alternative to plywood. Thermo-Lite has the characteristics that everyone has been waiting for - strong, lightweight and rot-free, offering lifetime performance. It is a great option for so many applications. There is a unique saving in weight and eliminating any potential timber degradation and rot, reducing the need for future works.

The utilisation of Thermo-Lite reduces overall displacement weight dramatically, and provides us with greater payload capacity reflecting in further economy throughout the Cruisecat range for both diesel and outboard engines. This unique product will not cup, warp, twist or accept water. Cruisecat utilises the Thermo-Lite board in the transoms, bulkheads, ring frames, stringers, decks, and other components such as hardtop compositions and deck stiffeners.

The new commercial 40ft sedan cruiser (pictured) can be fitted with outboards or conventional shaft drive turbo diesel engines. This new model will cater for the commercial sector in marine rescue, government, and defence departments. There is also interest in commercial fishing vessels together with and including ferries.

If you are anticipating repairs to your vessel then look no further than Thermo-Lite board. Installing Thermo-Lite board in your vessel is a tremendous asset all customers when selling your vessel, as this provides for the reduction of future rot problems.

The Cruisecat vessels will be displayed at the 2017 Gold Coast International Boat Show & Marine Expo held in Coomera, on 17 - 19 March 2017. Pacific Blue Cruisecat will display the two new 40ft Sedan Cruiser and Flybridge, as well as the 35ft Cruisecat.

Don’t forget to come down to the waterfront to view these vessels and discuss any requirements with James. Phone: 0432 192 014 or visit www.cruisecat.net.

BOATGOLDCOAST.COM. AU

49

MARINA | DRYSTACK | SHIPYARD

THE GOLD COAST’S BEST LOCATION TO STORE YOUR BOAT We provide first class facilities and services. From marina berths, dry stack boat storage and boat maintenance to cafes, restaurants and a bar, Runaway Bay Marina is the perfect place to relax and enjoy.

Easy access, secure, all weather marina berths Only minutes from the seaway & the GC’s best boating destinations Dry storage for hassel free easy boat access 24/7 Experienced friendly marina staff Highly skilled operators caring for your vessels Gold Coast’s best range of new & used boats for sale in one location All your marine vessel services on site Cafe, bar, fuel wharf, amenities & pump out

L A N D WA S C R E AT E D TO P ROV I D E A P L AC E F O R B OAT S TO V I S I T

PHONE: (07) 5577 1400 | www.runawaybaymarina.com.au 50

247 Bayview Street, Runaway Bay Marina, Queensland 4216

FEB - APRIL 2017

BOAT GOLD COAST

CUTTING THROUGH

THE SPIN

Solas propellers are designed to work in perfect harmony with your engine to maximise performance and minimise fuel wastage.

Expert advice on propeller choice and exciting technological changes achieve its designed rev and torque levels. And if you find yourself at the other end of the spectrum with an overpowered boat, selecting a better-suited propeller is an easy way of modifying that power surplus so that you will achieve better fuel economy and savings from your outboard.

T

h e humble propeller is an often-overlooked boating component when you are customizing your dream boat. But it can have a critical impact on the handling and performance of your craft. To help you cut through all the confusion, we chatted with Solas Australia’s “propeller guru”, Steve Evans, to provide some expert advice and give us a preview of where the technology is going.

According to Steve, the first place to start when looking at your propeller is assessing which main power category your boat falls into. Your boat will either be underpowered, overpowered, or adequately powered.

While it will be quite easy to notice if your boat is significantly under or overpowered, smaller power mismatches are harder to pick. As well as incorrect engine choice or propeller blade size, the transom height setup can also be a problem. These issues can cause a range of problems including harmonic vibrations, excessive noise, and fuel wastage.

If you find your boat has a power mismatch, there are, thankfully, some easy steps you can take to fix it.

For underpowered boats, changing propellers often to one that has the right pitch will allow the engine to

BOATGOLDCOAST.COM. AU

Another challenge buyers are faced with when selecting propellers is that it can be hard to pick the quality blades from the poor ones. Cheaper blades are often using very outdated blade shapes and geometries that are not up to the task of matching the fantastic new engines.

Today’s engines feature responsive torque and need that power to be converted to thrust effectively via a range of correct blade ratios. Modern propellers will be more expensive, but they also come with very important service and performance guarantees.

Solas propellers take advantage of the latest metallurgy advances and blade pitch refinements.

Exciting new propeller technology is rolling out that can have a real impact on handling and performance, without saddling you with excessive weight or fuel bills.

Steve explained how new production improvements in compression casting aluminium and new advances in metallurgy in duplex “compound” stainless steel mixes is combining to deliver the biggest shakeup in propeller technology we have seen in years. A number of additional refinements, such as a larger range of blade geometries, blade camber, rake and pitch increments of just one inch, enable the propellers to seamlessly match the torque curves of current model outboards.

With the older propeller technology, this sort of subtlety of blade technology was not required. But in recent years, as we have progressed to variable timing and multivalve technology, it is essential that your propeller can maximise all those advancements. The old fixed-pitch propellers just can’t cut it with today’s engines, especially now with the new computer-controlled blasts and lean burn features. With all of today’s dizzying features you can see why it pays to have an expert help you match the right propeller geometry to your boat setup.

Another huge game changer in the higher horsepower engines has been the introduction of electronic throttle and gearshift control. Suzuki gearboxes lead the field in this area with their proven chain and offset gear designs providing industry-leading longevity.

So if your boat is packing serious horsepower, you will want to keep an eye on the new advances in gear train dampening to the propeller, which synch with your engine’s capabilities. This is still a very bleeding edge area of engine and propeller technology. But the best propeller factories, such as Solas, are developing shaft engagement delays and dampening, all happening inside the propeller hub.

As you can see, matching engines and propellers have become a very complicated science in recent years. The latest engine and propeller technologies are providing boaties with unprecedented power and control, but only if you have the right equipment working in harmony.

For more information about finding the right propeller for your boat, email Steve at the Propeller Warehouse at sales@solas.com.au. Just some simple information, like your propeller name, diameter and pitch, and your maximum boat speed, are enough for Steve and his technicians to crunch the data and give you some expert propeller advice.

51

BOAT GUIDE ANGLER

The Banana Prawn RUN

By Luke Rafton

T

he term ‘banana prawn’ refers to two species: the white- and the red-legged banana prawns.

Both species live in our local waters and are shortlived and fast growing. When banana prawns run in South East Queensland, it is a common sight to see many boats grouped together, casting nets, and hauling in an abundance of prawns.

Prawning can be attempted in a few different ways.

However, for our local waters, it is suggested to use a cast net from a boat. The technique is easy to learn and is a fairly inexpensive fun for the whole family.

Here are the things you need to know.

NET The best type of net to catch banana prawns is a monofiliment top pocket cast net, with 12ft drop and chain bottom. The prices for these nets start from $250, and can range up to $550.

WHEN The best time of the year to catch prawns is between January and May. Prawn catching during the day is safer, with less chances of nasty by-catch, such as stonefish or bullrout.

Some areas prove better for prawn catching on the high tide and others during the lower tides. The best time is usually an hour before or after the changing tides, as otherwise the current can be too strong to catch anything.

The depth varies from place to place. It can be as shallow as 6 feet, but it will be hard to make the nets effective. And it can go far down to 60 feet deep.

Prawns move into deeper holes on low tide, as there is no water over the banks and over shallow areas at the bottom of each tide.

Water temperature is not a major factor during the prawn season.

WHERE The best locations to catch banana prawns are from the Jacobs Well boat moorings to the Rudy Maas moorings, then north from the power lines at Rocky Point to the mouth of the Logan River. The areas of Redland Bay Channel, Karragarra Island, Lamb and Russell Island are also great locations for prawns.

Hunting for prawns is very popular in these waters.

The prawning pack can be as little as one boat, if you are lucky enough to find them on your own, or up to 100 boats all throwing nets.

If you are a learner, the best way to catch prawns is by watching from a distance. Then, observe how the

52

seasoned prawners work the area. Most prawners are easy to get along with, as they are all trying to catch a feed. Most times, you are working in close quarters with each other. Be aware of other’s boats and motors, as mistakes can be expensive.

LIMITS Possession limit is 1 x 10-litre bucket of prawns per person at any time. This includes what you have in your boat, car, fridge and freezer at home at any given point in time. Certain areas of Moreton Bay have a green zone marine park status, so it is wise to acquaint yourself online of these important zones before heading off.

HOW By using a fish finder, you will greatly improve your success rate. Any type of sounder will mark to locate prawns. It takes practice to know what they look like on your individual personal units. The prawns will show up anywhere from the surface right down to the bottom. Once located, be ready to cast your net using your preferred method (off the shoulder, wrist-grab, or other methods). Mastering your net cast prior to your fishing trip is essential to maximise the opportunity for a productive cast. (Ask your tackle shop to demonstrate, or go to youtube.com for details.)

Once you catch the prawns, place them in an ice-slurry mixture (ice and salt water) in a cooler to keep them fresh. They can also be kept alive in a live bait well/tank with lots of water flow. However, ensure the lid is closed at all times, as prawns are able to jump and escape.

COOKING In a pot, place salt water that comes from the area where the prawns were caught. Allow the water to boil before adding the raw prawns. Once they are red and begin to float, remove them from the pot and immediately place in an ice-water slurry to stop any further cooking. Overcooked prawns can be quite tough and chewy.

AS BAIT Prawns make excellent bait, if you are not intending on eating them. Almost all fish will eat/attack live prawn bait. It simply depends on the size of the prawn. Smaller prawns are best for whiting and bream, while larger prawns produce better results for flathead, trevally, mangrove jack, mulloway (jewfish), and threadfin salmon.

To rig a live prawn for fishing, place the hook in the second to last segment before the tail. This will allow the prawn to swim in a more natural manner, while also increasing the length of time with which it stays alive.

FEB - APRIL NOV - JAN 2017

BOAT GOLD COAST

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

BOATGOLDCOAST.COM. AU

53

BOAT GUIDE EDUCATION

W H EN BO AT S B E COM E C L AS S RO OMS

nderstanding the environment is an everyday U practice, especially here on the Gold Coast.

Our rich and blessed landscapes give us a lot to

think about (and to be thankful for!). They are also a great advantage for our natural sciences teachers.

After all, what could be a better way to teach about our waterways than sitting students on boats and pointing to the real objects of study? Here is another reason to love boating: relating our prior knowledge to the nature around us.

For many people, the beautiful waterways of Gold Coast can be considered real live labs.

DANIELA GRIMBERG went onboard with student groups of two training organizations, one down at Tallebudgera Creek and the other up at Jacobs Well, to watch some great outdoor classes.

In fact, that was a windy morning and kids had to struggle a little bit paddling together to get to the park. But it was a fun activity anyway, and definitely worth it. When we arrived at Fleay’s sanctuary, we saw ourselves surrounded by the wide variety of trees, birds, snakes, koalas, crocodiles and many other species nested in the park.

“Today we are doing a sample trawl. As we have guidelines on how to handle the creatures, we record the information and release everything we catch alive. So, for students who have never been on a boat or done any fishing, this is a completely unique experience,” explains JWEEC’s Marine Programs officer, Peter Veijalainen.

“It’s all about interacting with the environment and being a part of it. The byproduct of today’s activity is that students discover a new skillset in relation to canoeing. And certainly today, with the environmental focus and the significance of looking after areas such as the Tallebudgera Creek, we educate the kids in the importance of these environments. It’s wonderful to take them out to see the real life, being a part of it,” explains Dale Mills, principal of TBS.

For Steven Rowell, principal of JWEEC, practical classes are a great opportunity to make students feel themselves as agents of change: “All of our programs are experiential and students learn by doing. We hope each student leaves the program with a healthy knowledge and respect for the natural and cultural environment.”

Mills also states that outdoor activities may require a higher level of responsibility as well. “The logistic to remove students from the classroom involves certain inherent dangers, so we need to ensure the staff is fully qualified for driving boats. That’s not a skillset that every teacher would have.”

THE HERO’S JOURNEY The important role of Australian naturalist David Fleay is the starting point of a program called, “The Hero’s Journey”, offered by Tallebudgera Beach School (TBS).

In the early 50’s, Fleay set aside a preservation area by the Tallebudgera estuary for its floodfree forested slopes and gullies, as well as its rich local biodiversity and many Aboriginal relics.

After a few years (and a huge effort of Mr Fleay), the David Fleay Wildlife Park was founded in West Burleigh, the final destination for the students of Narangba State School from Brisbane, that were visiting TBS that week.

“The Hero’s Journey” involves not only the environmental awareness about waterways and the mangroves. It also helps students to find personal characteristics that can contribute to the group’s challenge, according to different passions and interests. “The canoes are part of students going on that journey to discover a little bit about themselves and trusting others whilst learning about the environment and waterways,” says Amy Park, a teacher of TBS. Armed with their paddles, students have to cruise the channel to Fleay’s sanctuary, which also means, for many of them, leaving their comfort zone. “Digital technologies tend to keep students spending a lot more time in front of screens. It’s definitely starting to show that basic outdoor living rates are going down, and it may affect their physical abilities, their coordination,” Amy explains.

54

A FLOATING CLASSROOM In northern Gold Coast, we boarded the Educat, a powerboat owned by the Jacobs Well Environmental Education Centre (JWEEC). The 12-meter catamaran was designed to take students to normally inaccessible study sites, uniting the convenience of a classroom with the fieldwork dynamism. The vessel is berthed at the Horizon Shores Marina and operates between Jacobs Well, Stradbroke Island, and Moreton Bay. We cruised along with 11 students to learn about the mangroves of the area. The mission was to learn about the local flora and fauna, and the processes that affect the environment and its food chains. Onboard Educat, students have the opportunity to collect data on the water properties, such as temperature, salinity and depth, as well as observing the plants and animals captured by the trawl net attached to the boat.

For more information: www.thebeachschool.eq.edu.au www.jacobseec.eq.edu.au TBS Canoes The Tallebudgera Beach School canoes are made of fibreglass and were specifically designed with seats in the middle. These features not only provide extra strength and durability for daily use, but also the ability to seat two extra passengers, so it’s possible to have up to four students per canoe. The school also uses kayaks made of polypropylene, which is a lighter and a more durable material.

The Educat Educat is a purpose-built boat 14 years ago and has the ability to drive up onto the beach and put people onto an island from a boarding ramp at the front, which makes it unique in a sense that not many other boats can do that.

The boat is powered by twin diesel engines and its layout was designed as a large classroom, which can sit around 40 students.

The vessel can perform animal and plankton sample trawls and sediment grabs. Groups can also do snorkeling activities over the side.

The maintenance of the catamaran receives good support from the local marina and is also used by university students in order to collect data for academic researches.

Besides Educat, JWEEC has two timber dories and canoes. The dories were built by students 25 years ago, based on an English fishing boat.

They are able to get into very shallow waters and are safe watercrafts, so young students can get the opportunity to have a drive under staff supervision. The seven three-seat canoes are used on the Pimpama River and other confined waterways nearby. It allows students to sneak up on sea birds, kangaroos, snakes, ospreys, turtles and other species.

FEB - APRIL 2017

BOAT SAILING

Kerry Noyes is the current Commodore of the Southport Yacht Club, and is the first female commodore in the Club’s history. She moved to the Gold Coast from Sydney in 1978, and joined the Club 22 years ago after deciding to transition from ski racing. Prior to SYC, she was an active member of the Queensland Water Ski Racing Association, and spent a number of years as hostess/deckhand for local cruise companies. She has been the Secretary of the Nacra Catamaran Association of Australian Inc. and the Queensland Nacra Association for the last six years.

Here is a snapshot of her thoughts on the Club and boating in general.

FROM SKI TO SAIL: What are the major challenges you face as Commodore of SYC? My role is to keep SYC moving forward and building on the great work achieved by Past Commodore Phil Short in bringing all divisions of the club together as one.

The challenge is to continue to lobby governments, local and state, to ensure the Broadwater and surrounds are managed to ensure all watersport participants have quality areas to utilise.

How does the Southport Yacht Club participate in the community?

Southport Yacht Club runs a number of community events throughout the year, including hosting the Gold Coast Waterways Authority’s public forum at our Hollywell and Main Beach Clubhouses.

We regularly run a number of courses in conjunction with Yachting Queensland throughout the year, and provide pathways for youth and adults interested in sailing to join the sport.

The SYC continually offer members and the public quality programs, facilitated by leaders in the industry, such as Yachting Queensland, Australian Sailing, and community groups, such as Air Sea Rescue.

Your aspirations for the Club and boating community?

• We will continue to build on our youth and young adult membership base, and ensure the Club remains relevant to our younger members.

• We must ensure that the general public have access to pristine waterways as the Gold Coast population continues to grow.

• There should be consultations between power, sail and commercial users, and continued mutual respect in the use of the waterways

Kerry Noyes

• Boat owners should continue to support and buy from local business within the marine industry.

Without support, we will lose some of our industry.

Your thoughts on the future of boating on the Gold Coast?

I believe the Broadwater is an asset that is not being currently used to its full potential. There is potential for significant public value in dredging the southern part of the Broadwater fully, creating a stadium directly east of the Southport Parklands area to be used not only for events but also as a large open space for all to use. It is imperative, with this as with any other project, to ensure that the biodiversity areas on and around Wave Break Island and the Seaway are maintained. I also believe the “Deep Hole” area of the Broadwater requires some serious maintenance to return it to what it was - a deep hole.

You are an advocate for?

I am actively involved in training programs, from fun sailing right up to elite youth level. Through our company, we sponsor boats for children to lease on a yearly basis once they are out of the junior level. We are currently starting a youth program with a view to developing local talent towards the youth Olympics/ ISAF World Championships in the Nacra 15 class.

Your favourite boating activity?

I enjoy all forms of boating, but my passion is catamaran racing. I love catamaran racing on the Broadwater - very challenging and exhilarating! I own a Nacra 5.8 and compete in SYC events and Nacra events Australiawide. I try to sail at least weekly. I also own a Nacra 4.5, and sponsor two Nacra 15’s for the ISAF Youth Worlds.

My partner and I enjoy relaxing weekends at the SYC Dux Retreat when we can spare the time.

Interview with Roselle Tenefrancia

YOUR SAILING CRE W HOW IT ALL WORKS Nautinet is basically a great little piece of online software where every member of a sailing team has an individual log-in to access boat and crew data as well as use all the features and functionality.

Once logged in, either you or an account administrator (such as a captain, owner or manager) can add your personal details such as uniform sizes, food allergies, mobile number, etc.

Hereafter, your personal details can be easily shared with any boat that you accept an invitation from and access almost all of the data, dependent privileges set by an account administrator or the captain.

autinet is a new website providing a comprehensive central platform to make crew organisation and communication efficient and easy. It provides a well-organised and user-friendly place to keep all of the data involved in organising racing events as well as a wealth of really smart features and functionality.

Each time an event is added to a boat’s calendar, one can opt to invite any amount of crew from a list of all the current crew. All selected crew will then automatically receive an email notification announcing that they have been invited to an event and enquiring if they would like to attend or not.

Should a crew member select “Yes” to attending, then his/her name will automatically appear on all of the smart lists and effect other features and functionality throughout the site.

Just a year since the website’s live launch, there are now some of the most competitive racing boats in the world using the software including J-Class ‘Velsheda’, RP100 ‘Wild Oats XI’, MiniMaxis ‘Caol Ila R’ and ‘Robertissima’, and TP52s ‘Spookie’ and ‘Alegre’. There have also been a number of smaller boats signing up.

An example of a smart list is the ‘Next of Kin List’.

This is a list that pulls all of the next-of-kin data from all of your crew’s accounts and places it on one neat table. You can choose to show all of your crew or only crew attending certain events. As with any page on Nautinet, this table is available to download, print or share via email at the click of a button.

N

55 BOATGOLDCOAST.COM. AU

One example of a function is the ‘Smart-Grouped SMS Messaging’ which allows you to write one message on-screen and then click “Send to All Crew” or “Send to All Crew Attending Maxi Worlds”. Perfect for informing all the crew of last minute changes at an event when the crew are geographically scattered about the place!

One example of a feature is the ‘Attendance Overview’ page. This shows a list of all of the crew and all of the events and shows whether or not the individual crew members are ‘Attending’, ‘Not Attending’, ‘Awaiting Response’ or ‘Not Invited’.

It will also summarise below how many crew are attending, not attending, awaiting response or not invited and, of those attending, how many crew are race crew, shore/permanent crew, owner/ guest or non-crew.

“Nautinet has proved a great tool for both the TP52 and the Etchells teams. We found it easy to learn, easy to use, and a great bespoke solution to the modern demands of professional sailing,” says Steve Benjamin, 2015 Rolex Yachtsman of the Year and owner of TP52 ‘Spookie’, Carkeek40 and Etchells.

All crew profiles are free but each boat pays an annual subscription of which there are four different types to choose from depending on which profile applies best to the boat and crew. Different deals can also be easily negotiated.

For more information, please visit www.nautinet.com; or email at mail@nautinet.com 55

BOAT SAILING

THE

GOLD COAST REALLY ‘TURNS IT ON’

By Ray McMahon

The ever-consistent Painkiller OP, owned and skippered by Rod West, shredded more sails than Rod cared to talk about. The damage to the sails took away any chance they had of a win.

As the final boats arrived, the Southport Yacht Club (SYC) did an amazing job in hosting the visiting sailors. The legendary hospitality at the SYC is well known throughout the yachting world and the teams always look forward to coming here.

Then the final event on the calendar was the Bartercard Sail Paradise regatta off the beaches of the Gold Coast from January 8 to 12.

J

anuary on the Gold Coast really is like a festival of sailing.

Starting in Sydney on Boxing Day with the SydneyHobart race, the Gold Coast entry She kept us enthralled for four days. Often leading its division over the marathon race, the light winds on the final day took away all chances it had of a win. She, an Olsen 40, owned and skippered by local Gold Coaster Phil Bell, was the most ‘raced’ boat in the fleet completing its 19th Sydney-Hobart race. The race has been on Phil’s bucket list for some time so he purchased She two years ago to complete his personal dream.

On January 2, the inaugural Club Marine Pittwater to Southport race gave competitors conditions they could not believe. Just like the record-setting Sydney-Hobart race a week earlier, the Pittwater to Southport race also rewrote the record books.

The yachts started in a blustery southerly that literally ‘threw’ the boats to the Gold Coast - but at a price. Nearly every boat suffered some sort of damage as the wild winds wreaked havoc on the fleet. Most yachts ‘shredded’ spinnakers and some sustained boom damage.

In a race that would normally take the leading boats 48 hours to complete, they reached the finish line off Main Beach in less than 36 hours.

The two Gold Coast boats competing did themselves proud. Although finishing in the middle of the fleet, just to finish was an achievement. The tiny Adams 12m Turbulence, doing its first long ocean race under new owner Steve ‘Chappy’ Czapp had a great run on day one, but then succumbed to fatigue in the tough conditions on day two and slipped back down the pack.

56

The Gold Coast turned on near perfect conditions for the five-day regatta, with a fun-filled lae day in the middle. With entries from Sydney, Yamba, Brisbane, Noosa, and of course from the Gold Coast, the scene was set for some big showdowns.

And the fleet did not disappoint. After four days of racing, all of the divisions could have been won by several boats. With five divisions in the regatta, every boat had a chance to show their dominance on the final day.

Local boats Pole Dancer and KD Girl fought out the Cruising Division right to the end with only one point separating the two at the end of the regatta. Carlos Selby, owner of Pole Dancer, was ecstatic when he held the winner’s trophy high after the regatta.

In the trailerable division, local boat Conquistador just could not quite match it with the visiting yachts but finished a credible fourth.

The hotly contested division was the Performance Racing Division, so the fleet was divided into two sections, which really created some exciting match-ups. In Performance 2, first place went to Yamba visitors Ramble Tamble with second going to SYC boat Are We There Yet and third going to SYC boat Bellamy. It was a great division with only six points separating the top three boats.

The Gold Coast turned on near perfect conditions for the Bartercard Sail Paradise regatta , with a fun-filled lae day in the middle. With entries from Sydney, Yamba, Brisbane, Noosa, and of course from the Gold Coast, the scene was set for some big showdowns. the Gold Coast. Fred has only just purchased this boat, so I am expecting to see him figure in the major placings around the country in the very near future. Aurics Quest actually dead-heated with Brisbane boat Electra but won on a count back.

The hard working SYC race organiser David Hows sailed his boat Ocean Gem into a commendable third in what was a very tough competition.

After the last day of competition, Aurics Quest was named the overall regatta winner and Painkiller OP named the highest placed boat over both the Bartercard Sail Paradise regatta and the Club Marine Pittwater to Southport race.

It was great to see our local Southport Yacht Club boats not only match it with the visitors, but also actually take out most divisions.

For now, it is back to club racing to hone our skills until the next chance we get to take on the visitors.

In Performance 1, the top three placings all went to SYC boats! Cyclone, Wildflower 11 and Painkiller OP respectively all showed the remainder of their fleet a clean pair of heels. It took the final race on the final day to decide who would take home the division win.

The IRC Division, raced by the quickest boats in the fleet, was successfully won by SYC boat Aurics Quest. Owned and skippered by Fred Bestall, this boat was a real weapon around the waters of FEB - APRIL 2017

BOAT GOLD COAST

Be skin smart..on land and at sea DID YOU KNOW?

• Australia, especially Queensland has the highest rate of skin cancer in the world.

• Approximately 2 in 3 Australians will be diagnosed with some form of skin cancer before the age of 70.

WHAT IS SKIN CANCER?

Skin cancer occurs when skin cells are damaged, usually by overexposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun. There are three main types of skin cancer: Basal cell carcinoma (BCC), Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) and Melanoma. Both basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma are known as non-melanoma skin cancers.

WHAT CAUSES SKIN CANCER?

Sunburn - It causes 95% of melanomas, the deadliest form of skin cancer. Many people get sunburnt when they are taking part in water sports and activities at the beach or pool, as well boating, gardening, or having a barbeque, most at risk are outside workers.

Tanning - A tan is not a sign of good health or wellbeing, despite many Australians referring to a ‘healthy tan’, some Australian adults still hold the misguided belief that a tan looks healthy. Truth is, a tan signifies that you have been exposed to enough UV radiation (from the sun or solarium) to damage your skin. This will eventually cause loss of elasticity (wrinkles), sagging, yellowish discolouration and even brown patches to appear on your skin, worst of all, it increases your risk of skin cancer.

BOATGOLDCOAST.COM. AU

WHAT ARE THE SYMPTOMS OF CANCER?

The sooner a skin cancer is identified and treated, the better your chance of avoiding complex surgery or, in the case of a serious melanoma or other skin cancer, potential disfigurement or even death.

Become familiar with the look of your skin, to identify changes that might suggest a skin cancer.

Look for: • Any crusty, non-healing sores or lesions • Small lumps that appear red, pale or pearly in colour • New spots, freckles or any moles changing in colour, thickness or shape over a period of weeks to months (especially those dark brown to black, red or blue-black in colour).

CAN I GET SUNBURNT EVEN IN WINTER TIME?

Sunburn is also common on cooler or overcast days, as many people mistakenly believe UV radiation is not as strong. This is untrue – you can still be sunburnt when the temperature is cool. Sun exposure that doesn’t result in burning can still cause damage to skin cells and increase your risk of developing skin cancer. Evidence suggests that regular exposure to UV radiation year after year can also lead to skin cancer.

WHEN IS A GOOD TIME FOR A SKIN CHECK?

Skin cancers develop at any time, so sun protection measures and skin checks should not be neglected. Skin lesions from sun damage won’t show up overnight, it may take months or even years for the damage to develop into a skin cancer. During summer we are far more likely to notice moles or unusual spots as more of our skin is exposed, however, in spring, and cooler seasons we are more heavily clothed and as a result often less likely to notice suspicious moles, or changes.

Additionally, the colder months may prove to be an ideal time for a full skin check. As most people are covered up during the winter, this minimizes sun exposure to skin lesions and moles. This can allow for better Dermoscopy viewing (a distinct magnifying light, which allows the doctor to closely examine spots on the skin).

Always remember to protect your skin by applying 50+ sunscreen to exposed areas of skin such as the face and hands and don’t forget your lips and ears, always wear protective sunglasses or protective eyewear for work, sports and anytime outside. Australian medical standards recommend a regular 6 monthly skin check.

If you notice a spot on the skin that looks different from the others or is changing, bleeding or itchy, it should be examined, give us a call we will always find an appointment time for you to see Dr Atef Mousa.

Be skin smart book now - 5539 3958

One of the most important things you can do for your health is to get your skin checked. While many people take on-board the usual sun-smart messages of sunscreen, eyewear, hats and cover-up during summer, spring, autumn and winter can prove to be as damaging for your skin.

57

Don’t panic girls! The forecast is a 25-knot southeasterly, and it’s certainly 25 knots! All we need to do is keep the chop from the southeasterly dead square onto our port side, and we’ll be heading southwest. We’ll be at Green Island in no time!

BOAT GUIDE PROTOCOL

THE STORY OF A

LEAKING COMPASS The importance of a liquid damped compass cannot be overstated, as NIC WELCH narrates his experience with a faulty one. years ago, I learned a very valuable Twenty lesson in Moreton Bay.

My friend, Paul, and I had just purchased a secondhand 6m shark cat, which we were very proud of. It had everything we needed - 150L underfloor fuel tank, all safety gear, rocket launcher, live bait tank, sleeping bunks, and ample fishing room. It even came with a Lowrance fish-finder/GPS-chartplotter combo with the latest CMAP charts. The only thing wrong with the vessel was that its liquid damped compass had a small leak, and half of the oil the compass card floats in had vanished. But it still pointed north when the compass was level, and who cares, we had the GPS chartplotter anyway.

We were keen to show off our new toy to the girls, so we invited them along on a fishing trip to chase some snapper at Harry Atkinson Artificial Reef in the middle of Moreton Bay. The weather forecast was light southwesterlies in the morning, followed by 20-25 knot southeasterlies in the afternoon. We had 80L of fuel on board, which was more than ample for the seven-nautical-mile trip to Harry’s from Manly Boat Harbour.

So we set off and fished the reef for most of the morning, before heading to Mud Island to try our luck there. By early afternoon the southeasterlies had just started to kick in, so we decided we should head back to the reef and fish there for an hour or so before heading back home.

Well, that extra bit of wind seemed to put the snapper on the chew at Harry’s and we started landing some nice sized fish. A storm front was approaching from the south, but it didn’t look very severe, so we decided to keep fishing – the 6m shark cat could handle the chop easily, and we still had ample fuel to get us home safely.

After half an hour more fishing, some heavy rain was approaching quickly so we decided to pull anchor and start the trip home, just as a yacht sailed past us heading towards Tangalooma. Within two minutes of driving, our GPS chartplotter gave up the ghost and lost power, caused by a bad earth in the chartplotter wiring loom (which we were unable to troubleshoot at the time without a multimeter, as we didn’t carry a multimeter on board). No problem, we’ll just head towards Green Island as Manly Boat Harbour is southwest from the island.

Then the rain hit. It absolutely teemed down! Visibility was reduced to about 100 metres or less. Oh great, where has Green Island gone? No worries, we’ll use the compass. We work out from our paper chart that a bearing to the southern end of Green Island is approximately 230 degrees magnetic. This would have been fine to use our compass in completely flat water, but our compass only had half its liquid, so the compass card got stuck every time we hit a wave - rendering the compass completely useless.

Ok, no problem. Instead of heading towards the southern end of Green Island, let’s just head west until we hit the mainland, then follow the shoreline down to Manly. It’s 3pm, so we can follow the sun to the west. Or we can do the boy scout trick and find north by pointing 12 o’clock on my watch clock face at the sun halving the distance between the hour hand and 12 o’clock. Good idea, except it’s bucketing down rain still, completely overcast, and impossible to determine where the sun actually is.

So off we set. After half an hour we still hadn’t seen Green Island, and determined that we must have overshot the island. No worries, we’ll keep heading southwest and eventually hit the mainland, probably around Wellington Point. After another half an hour and still no mainland in sight, we suddenly came across the same yacht, which sailed past us at the reef, the one that was heading towards Tangalooma at the time! It suddenly dawned upon me that as the storm front passed over, the wind must have swung slowly around from the southeast, through the west, and was now a north easterly - a complete 180 degree wind shift, causing us to drive a very wide semi-circle keeping the chop on our port side. So instead of being on Southern Moreton Bay, we were now on Northern Moreton Bay! At this point, we had about 30L of fuel left, and quite possibly had a fuel emergency if we were indeed on Northern Moreton Bay. It’s still pouring rain, there’s an hour or so of light left, and are now officially lost.

Needless to say, the girls were not impressed. We had no alternative but to drop anchor and ride out the weather until the rain passed, so we could see land and get our bearings. When the rain did eventually clear, we found ourselves halfway between Mud Island and the Little Sand Hills on Moreton Island.

We made it back to Manly Boat Harbour just before dark, with about a litre of fuel spare. I slept on the couch that night.

To this date, I always ensure I have a well-maintained liquid damped compass in my boat. The simple fact is a liquid damped compass and a paper chart are virtually fail-safe navigation tools, which you should never leave shore without. It only takes a small electrical fault - such as a bad earth in our case, or a blown fuse, or a corroded connector - to render your GPS chartplotter useless. If you use a mobile phone with navigation software, it only takes a splash of water or a flat battery to make that useless too. If you subsequently find yourself in trouble and without a known GPS position, how are you going to alert marine rescue organisations to your vessel’s position if you don’t have a compass on board? Informing marine rescue with the compass bearings of two or more landmarks enables your vessel position to be plotted on a chart with a high degree of accuracy.

NOTE: A liquid damped compass is only a “recommended” safety gear under Queensland laws, but it is still important to always have a functional one on board. Even though the “recommended” safety gear is completely optional, you can still be fined for not carrying the recommended gear if you are in a situation where you actually need that particular piece of safety equipment. For example, an anchor is only recommended, not required. If your engine breaks down and you start floating out Jumpinpin Bar and need rescuing, you will likely be fined for not having an anchor on board.

PH 0432 710 892 58

FEB - APRIL 2017

BOAT GOLD COAST

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To order call STS (07) 5564 6908 STS Marine is a stockist of quality boating and industrial products, at competitive prices. With a new electronics display and an increased range of chandlery. STS Marine is your boating supplies warehouse.

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59

BOAT HISTORY

The Legend

of the Stradbroke Island Galleon The Mystery of the Ship in the Swamp. However, there has been no serious research to determine whether pre-Cook landings were indeed fact or fiction.

“Is it a lost Portuguese or Spanish exploration ship, a caravel or carrack? Or is it the wreck a Mexican treasure galleon, a Manila Galleon, carrying millions of pesos in silver and gold coins, shipwrecked on Australia’s Queensland coast?”

There have been several unsuccessful attempts to find the wreck in the last century. The last well-documented sightings of the wreck were in the 1890s and in 1934.

In the 1890s, before the Jumpinpin breakthrough, Matthew Heeb, a shipwright and a timber-getter, saw the shipwreck and described it as a “vessel with a high poop and forecastle”. In 1934, Jim Walker, a sailor and son of a boat builder, and two friends found the shipwreck, after a fire had burnt through the 18 Mile Swamp during a drought.

(www.unexplainedaustralia.com)

Many artefacts found are said to be directly linked to the Spanish/Portuguese Galleon - a bronze walking stick handle, a sailor’s dirk, ceramic bowl, a ship’s brass bell, and doubloons used by Aboriginal people to trade for European goods in the 1920s-30s. There are also historic records of people being shown the wreck, and anecdotal evidence of people who claimed to have seen and taken items of historical significance, including brass and copper fittings.

T

here exists a body of Aboriginal oral history and several artefacts found in the sand dunes, including a Spanish silver coin from 1597 and the blade of a 17thcentury Spanish rapier. Some say it is merely folklore, while others swear a trail of historic artefacts, written reports, and anecdotal evidence are clear evidence of a 15th or 16th Century shipwreck. But there is yet no conclusive evidence.

In the 19th century, a few whites and certain Stradbroke Aborigines knew of the shipwreck’s exact location. But over the years, this important historic knowledge has been lost. Stradbroke oral history says that the shipwreck was a Spanish expedition ship exploring the edges of their Pacific domain. Marooned as the result of an “ancient storm”, the survivors of the shipwreck were helped by the Stradbroke Island Aborigines and, unable to return to Spain or Manila (Philippines), the shipwrecked Spanish sailors were absorbed by Stradbroke’s Aboriginal population. There are also suggestions that some North Stradbroke Island families are direct descendants of the shipwrecked sailors.

Since the British settlement of Australia, a number stories about mysterious pre-Captain Cook shipwrecks in Queensland have circulated, and a number of prominent Australian historians have questioned the claim that Captain Cook was the first European to discover Queensland. There is historic evidence that Captain Cook used Portuguese or Spanish maps such as recalled in the Dauphin, Dieppe, Vallard and Desceliers maps to aid his navigation of the Pacific and Australia’s east coast.

The final answers to these important historic questions are likely to be found in the shipwreck still preserved in the peat moss of the 18 Mile Swamp.

The legend of the Stradbroke Island Galleon has polarised the archaeological fraternity for years.

But a new search may soon begin for the long-lost shipwreck, which some say will rewrite Australia’s history books. The main bone of contention is not so much the existence of a wreck, but claims it could pre-date the east coast discoveries of Captain James Cook - that he was not in fact the first person to chart the Queensland coastline.

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Lost Treasure?

No matter which side of the fence you sit, the story of “the ship in the swamp” on North Stradbroke certainly does get tongues wagging - and sparks questions about a long-lost treasure.

If it is a Manila galleon or a V.O.C. ship (which stands for Vereenigde Oost-Indische Compagnie [United East India Company], the largest commercial enterprise in the world, with a fleet of more than a hundred ships, thousands of employees, dozens of offices in Asia, and six establishments in the Netherlands in the 17th and 18th centuries), there may be truth to the Stradbroke Island oral history of a vast treasure buried somewhere on the island, its location known by certain Stradbroke Aboriginal elders.

Redland City Council have warned weekend treasure hunters to stay away from the island. “We don’t need amateur archaeologists traipsing through the swamp leave it to the professionals.”

The fact so many people are likely to have visited the site - timber-getters, would-be explorers, treasure-hunters, politicians and, of course, the North Stradbroke Island Quandamooka people themselves - the existence of a long-lost treasure is unlikely.

Fact and fiction One university professor, Greg Jefferys, had dedicated “a lot of time and effort” refuting and even ridiculing his own exhaustive research that began in 1989, best detailed in his book, The Stradbroke Island Galleon -

One lady, insisting on anonymity, is one of many North Stradbroke Indigenous residents. She said that she had heard of a wooden box “containing coins, books, a belt buckle, a couple of rings and other items”, and had been handed down through generations but was lost in a house fire at Dunwich in the 1980s. She recounted her family heritage so it would not be lost with the passing of her generation, but was unwilling to go on the record.

But to prove Jefferys’ theory and again rattle the archaeological “establishment” would be worth just as much as a chest full of gold coins for Jefferys’ dedicated team, including Capalaba GP Dr Cliff Rosendahl PhD and maritime engineer Brad Horton.

Visit www.stradbrokeislandgalleon.com for a wealth of information on the mysterious shipwreck.

(Editor’s Note: Here’s an interesting point that has been written about Jefferys’ book: “The book is the result of extensive research into early Australian and Queensland maritime history and archaeology and uses many local and international historic resources including extensive investigation of Spanish maritime histories and historians including noted Spanish historian Professor Francisco Mellen, an expert on the history of the Pacific. Most of these non-Anglo Saxon history resource are either deliberately ignored or casually overlooked by ‘establishment’ archaeologists and historians, defending the British biased status quo of Australian history that Cook, not the Spanish or Portuguese, were the first Europeans to discover Australia despite a mounting body of historic and archaeological evidence to the contrary.” stradbrokeislandgalleon.com) Information provided by Southport Yacht Club’s Maritime Heritage Ship Wreck committee.

FEB - APRIL 2017

BOAT GOLD COAST

LEGENDARY JET SKI EVENTS BUILD RIDER CONFIDENCE

he Jetskishop.com owner, James Tod, has been synonymous with jet ski trekking for more than 20 T years. His long-running initiative, The Breakfast Club, is

a social group for jet ski owners who have a passion for discovering new destinations with personal watercrafts.

James recently purchased a jet-power boat as a support vessel for the club and his viewpoint of jet skiers has dramatically changed. “Once I took to the water in a boat, I began to understand why so many boat owners complain about reckless jet skiers driving erratically on the Broadwater.” With this new-found understanding, James is determined to expand his advocacy of arranging social rides for jet ski owners.

“From behind the wheel of my boat, it’s clear that the jet skiers who are creating all the havoc don’t really have a purpose when they are out on the water. And many of them are too afraid to venture outside their comfort zones into areas where they are not familiar.”

By organising treks to interesting destinations, James believes that riders can build their confidence to take others with them to exciting spots where they can discover new activities and great places for lunch. “By encouraging jet ski

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riders to trek out further, there will be less PWC congestion on the main channels of the Broadwater, which makes a safer boating environment for all.”

To support a safer jet ski community by building rider confidence, the Jetskishop.com has created a Re-discover South East QLD Adventure Tour. James says, “The seven-part series is open to riders of all ages and regardless of the brands of jet skis they ride.

Our first ride to Slipping Sands at sunset is scheduled for the night of the full moon on 11th February 2016.”

The following ride dates will be confirmed prior to each scheduled ride, culminating with our annual seven-day tour during September in Whitsunday Islands. By offering an advance schedule to social club members, he believes those riders who have been too busy to use their skis in the last few years, will now find the time and a purpose to join in the fun.

Always plotting the route for his next big organised ride, James says, “The Re-discover tours are a great way to capture special moments, while establishing friendships through the awesome camaraderie of like-minded riders. The team at the Jetskishop.com will be leading each ride, and offering technical support and mechanical advice, if required.”

2 017 R E - D I SCOV E R SO U T H E AS T Q L D A DV E N T U R E TO U R

1. Southport to Slipping Sands for sunset cruise and dinner at Tipplers, with night ride back.

2. Southport to North Stradbroke Island tour (Day trip) 3. Southport to Tangalooma Island Resort and shipwrecks (Day trip) 4. Southport to Caloundra overnight stay (2-day ride) 5. Southport to Noosa overnight stay (2-day ride) 6. Southport to Hervey Bay overnight stay (3-day ride) 7. 7-day Whitsunday Islands tour (5 nights) on Hamilton island Interes ted rider s c an email James for more det ails at james@jet skishop.c om.

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BOAT BOOKS

“Reflections on a LostbyIsland” L indy Salter BOOK REVIEW By Patrick Molnar

B

ack in the early days, the area covering Jacobs Well, Calypso Bay, Cabbage Tree Point, Norwell, Woongoolba, and Steiglitz was once considered an island. It was called the ‘Pimpama Island’, bordered by the Pimpama River to the south, Moreton Bay to the east, the Logan and Albert Rivers to the north, and many creeks and swamps to the west.

Many explorers crossed the area, but they left it behind because of its difficult access, until a Scottish Presbyterian travelled to Germany and Britain to look for possible settlers into the area.

As a result, many German families migrated to Australia and started their new life down under, settling on the Pimpama Island.

Lindy Salter, a local historian, wrote the book Reflections on a Lost Island that provides the reader a peek into the time of first settlement in the area in the mid 1800’s. The book contains 28 chapters, featuring individual family stories mainly from the settlers’ great-grandchildren, who are mostly in their 80’s today. This extremely well researched piece puts you in a time machine and takes you among the first European families in the area who built their new life from scratch on the Pimpama Island.

Most of these families were from Germany. However, some chapters include stories of English families and also people who moved to the area more recently.

Through the chapters, you can read about the hardness of processing raw material by hand at the beginning, and also the mechanisation of farming.

With each story, the reader can get an insight into the private life of these big families - having 10 children was common at that time - discovering their daily routine at work, their leisure activities, and how they formed a very strong community with their neighbours, helping each other in any way they could.

Lindy Salter’s unique writing style and original photographs from that time enables you to place yourself to the era when people had no access to electricity, when there were no roads, and when children had to walk hours to get to school, just to name a few.

Each story is different. Most of these families were starting their own businesses in agriculture, growing sugar cane, corn, sweet potatoes, and arrowroot. While coping with the new environment, some also started fishing, crabbing, and livestock farming. One example of a thriving business is the Rocky Point Mill in Woongoolba, which has been operating for more than 130 years, and is one of the oldest sugar mills in Australia, established by the Heck family in the late 1800’s.

According to most of the reminiscences, the interviewees remember back then as the happiest time of their lives, growing up on the Pimpama Island, despite any hardships they encountered.

Thanks to the very detailed description of scenes, I am convinced that after reading this book, you will hop into your car and start discovering the streets where it all started, considering that many of the fields and houses are still there.

Reflections on a Lost Island is a must-read to get a hint on how the life was at the beginning of the settlement and how the area formed and evolved as the time passed by.

‘Reflections on a Lost Island’ is available for $25.00 from many local shops in Jacobs Well and Cabbage Tree Point; from Karen Lewis on 5546 1520 or 0405 177 713; or from Lindy Salter on 0407 695 340.

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FEB - APRIL 2017

BOAT GOLD COAST

CRUISECAT

BUILD THE BOAT OF YOUR DREAMS

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he Cruisecat would have to be one of the most comfortable and spacious multihulls on the market today.

With its high tunnel clearance and incredible stability, you are guaranteed a soft, dry ride in choppy conditions. Large fuel and water capacity make long-range cruising, or having a group of friends stay on board a breeze.

The Cruisecat can be built from 30ft to 48ft, with the 55ft just around the corner. This power cat has been built to allow for diversity where you can design your Cruisecat with higher hulls and modify design layout to suit your requirements. The versatility of the Cruisecat is what makes it really stand out in its class.

The Cruisecat is a stylish boat that is 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 in Coomera.

James Keay, designer and owner of the Cruisecat, understands that we are in a world where flexibility is the key, and the Cruisecat design provides the platform for you to build the boat of your dreams. Cruisecat cater for the private sector and commercial surveys for bare boat charters, work boats, houseboats (built to any stage), and passenger ferries.

Create the boat of your dreams. Call James Keay on 0432 192 014 or email info@cruisecat.net.

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BOAT GUIDE

DRONES

TAKING BOATING TO NEW HEIGHTS

By Narayan Pattison

In recent years, drones have evolved from novelty toys into an essential device for bringing aerial photography into the hands of the general public. Instead of being stuck with awkward selfies from your phone, drones let boaties capture the sort of amazing aerial shots that were previously only possible with a helicopter. However, photography was only the beginning, as we’re now seeing drones revolutionise fishing, both above and below the water line, and there’s even talk of drones helping save people who have fallen overboard. Let us show you some of the most useful drones for boating.

Lily Price: $1,200 If photography and filming are your priorities, then consider the Lily drone, which has some amazing features for a very reasonable price. Like the other drones featured here, Lily is fully waterproof. But that is just the start of its tricks. Unlike the other drones that require remote controllers, you simply toss Lily into the air and it automatically flies and shoots video for you. By wearing a watch-sized tracking device on your wrist, your location is known to the Lily and you are kept in the field of the view of what the Lily is filming. You can also give it a series of commands such as circling you, leading you or following you. The only downside is its maximum top speed is 40kmph, so don’t expect it to film faster water sports like jet skiing.

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Splash Drone

Aguadrone

Price: $1,660

Price: $1,790

It is possible to get cheap camera drones for under a hundred dollars, but you will need to buy them by the dozen considering they sink without a trace when they hit the water. The Splash Drone was the first waterproof drone to hit the market – an essential feature for any serious boating use. It is also one of the most versatile drones on the market, with the ability to attach a wide range of devices. The most obvious attachment is a GoPro camera for filming. However, the drone can carry up to 1kg, making it possible to carry life vests to people overboard much further than you could throw, or to carry flares higher up to increase their visibility. Another very handy feature is that if the drone loses its connection to your controller, it will automatically return to its take-off coordinates.

It is also possible to modify the Splash Drone to carry fishing equipment. Such a broad range of customization and features make the Splash Drone a great all-rounder. However, it will quickly get very expensive if you want all the attachments, so it’s worth looking at other choices if you just have a specific use in mind.

Drone fishing has rushed from concept to reality in just a couple of years, and it is easy to see why when you realise the possibilities with the technology.

You may have seen the popular YouTube videos earlier in the year of two local fishermen catching a huge 20kg tuna off Fingal Head by using a drone to carry a baited hook 350m out into the ocean then reeling the tuna back in with a rod.

The Aguadrone is specifically made for fishing and will let you do everything they did and more. The drone is fully waterproof and it comes with a range of accessories you can twist on and off without tools. As well as a camera capable of filming above and below the waterline, it comes with two main fishing accessories: the fish finder and the main fishing pod. The fish finder uses sonar to check the water’s depth, temperature and find fish down to 40m, and all of this information is sent to your smartphone in real-time. The main fishing pod can carry your bait, hook and sinker (up to a weight of 2kg) out to the fish. You can watch a camera view of below the drone and then detach the bait as soon as you spot the fish.

Trident Price: $1,200 For those who want to explore the ocean depths without getting wet, the Trident packs in a lot cutting-edge features. It is capable of travelling to a depth of 100m, while shooting HD footage that it sends back to your laptop or smartphone.

The Trident is also built very strongly to withstand water pressure and collisions. And to get around the difficulty of sending data wirelessly through the water, it is tethered to a floating WiFi transmitter. Unless you are a professional treasure hunter, the Trident may be a very niche device. But it’s undeniably fascinating.

FEB - APRIL 2017

BOAT SERVICE DIRECTORY

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

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BOAT GUIDE

SAFETY FIRST

By Captain Michael Paddison

T

here are concerns within the community regarding young people and the way they operate their small tinnies on the Gold Coast waterways, particularly in the canal systems.

Reports from the community have raised some serious issues concerning the ‘safe’ operation of small vessels, like a tinnie.

Water Police have a strong presence on the Gold Coast, and are very active in responding to complaints. But of course, they cannot be everywhere at all times. This leads to some boaties, in particular young people, pushing their luck and breaking the law on safe water practices.

There have been recorded incidents of failures in safety while operating a vessel in recent times. An example was in the news story that showed a boy operating a boat colliding into a residential jetty at significant speed. This example highlights exactly what behaviour young people are conducting on the waterways that need addressing. The young lad was lucky to have just come away with a broken arm. His impact with the jetty could have easily been a lot worse.

The young ‘skipper’ had broken several rules, including the most obvious - travelling over six knots. Other possible breaches of the boating rules include: Rule 5 - Proper Lookout: You must use all available means to lookout (including sight and sound) Rule 6 - Safe Speed: At all times, you must proceed at a safe speed so as to avoid a collision and be able to stop in an appropriate distance.

And most important is Rule 2, which states that, it is the responsibility of the skipper to know the rules.

At 16 years of age, a person can legally obtain a Recreational Marine Drivers Licence (RMDL) and a Personal Water Craft License (PCWL). Although

66

a boat license is not required for the operation of vessels with an engine of 6hp or less, the unlicensed driver is still obliged to know and adhere to rules.

Parents need to take a positive role and a genuine interest in their kids’ boating experience. Parents should also educate themselves on boating rules and regulations, by taking up a boating education course and by researching online information from Marine Safety Queensland.

Parents should regularly talk with their kids about their boating experiences on the water so they are made aware of what is “going on” and guide their kids’ behaviour should there be any concerns.

Talking will keep parents informed of potential safety risks, including current information on busy congested areas, new speed zones, changes of navigation, and temporary commercial operations.

Another good idea is for parents to check the boat regularly with their child. Make up a checklist. Ensure equipment is carried, and the vessel is seaworthy and regularly serviced.

It is also suggested that parents monitor who their kids are associating with. They can then assess whether there is any potential risk of unsafe boating practices, and be able to protect the kids from ‘risky’ behaviours by not allowing them to associate with those who do not practice safe boating.

Talk with other parents of kids who go boating, and inform each other of current behaviour, and encourage them to be safe.

If a person is under 16, he or she must only operate vessels with an engine 6hp or under. In case the engine on the vessel is over 6hp, it can be ‘governed’. Simply take your engine to a qualified engine mechanic for a ‘governor’ to be installed.

This will limit the power of the engine. As a parent, you can have peace of mind.

Parents and young skippers, licensed or unlicensed, should remember that, the Transport Operations (Marine Safety) Act 1994 imposes a general safety obligation on all vessel owners and operators, masters and crew to operate vessels safely at all times. This responsibility includes making sure the ship is safe, equipped and maintained, and operated in a safe manner.

Safe boating!

SAFETY EQUIPMENT Both young skippers and their parents need to know the safety equipment required to be carried on board their vessels.

The following are required: • One lifejacket per person aboard the boat; in good condition, easily assessable and the correct type for the area the vessel is operating in; a sticker/label at the lifejacket location is very helpful • Persons under 12 years of age in a vessel under 4.8 metres must wear a lifejacket at all times.

• All persons are required to wear a lifejacket/ PFD 1 while crossing a coastal bar in a vessel under 4.8 metres (i.e. The Seaway, Jumpinpin Bar, Tweed Bar) • Fire equipment - capable of extinguishing a fire for boats over 5 metres It is ‘recommended’ to carry: • Anchor • Charts (or Beacon to Beacon guide), and a compass • Bucket or bailing equipment • Paddles • Drinking water

FEB - APRIL 2017

BOAT GOLD COAST

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BOAT GOLD COAST

Extend the life of your

Boat Covers

he replacement of your boat’s clears and covers T can be costly. So we asked Dianne Katra of Classic Marine Trimming for some basic advice about maintaining boat covers, which can extend their life and ultimately save you some money.

By ordering a custom-made mesh screen or cover to go over your clears, you can extend their life and at the same time protect the interior of your boat. Note, though, that the mesh or canvas screen should not actually touch the clear or else it will scratch or sweat.

CLEARS

BIMINI/STORM COVERS

How should you clean your boat clears?

We recommend cleaning your clears regularly with a mild detergent or Imar Protective Cleaner, making sure that all traces are washed off fully. The less salt and dirt that stays on the clears, the longer you will get out of them. Once a month, you should use a polish, such as Imar Protective Polish or Vuplex. Using a microfibre cloth makes polishing your clears much easier, but you should make sure the cloth is completely free of any other contaminants or dust. There is also a range of polishes you can use to remove small scratches.

How do you clean the bimini?

Biminis that are made from boat hooding, such as Mariner, can be cleaned with a mild detergent or an Imar cleaner for this purpose, making sure they are rinsed thoroughly. A soft-bristled brush (like a dustpan brush) can be used to remove stubborn dirt. Using Imar Protective Spray every 2 to 3 months after cleaning will help to inhibit UV degradation and maintain the suppleness of the vinyl. If your bimini is made with canvas, a mild detergent is best for cleaning with a soft brush. You can use watered down Domestos on any mouldy spots. Note that, generally, mouldy spots are an indication that the canvas could be losing its waterproofing and should not be used regularly.

Can you remove the “cloudiness” from the clears, or is that permanent?

Generally speaking, cloudiness or browning is an indication of the clears deteriorating. Sometimes polishing them up with a Novus #3 heavy scratch remover polish can make a difference. But it really depends on how old the clears are and how they have been maintained. (Note: Never try using Mr Sheen. It was not made for this purpose.)

What is the lifespan of the clears?

These days, the lifespan of clears is about five (5) years. The only way to extend that life is through regular cleaning and polishing. There are three grades of clears – calendared clear, extruded clear, and pressed polished sheet clear. The difference in the three grades is the clarity, but they all last about the same. There is also a range of polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) threads, which have a 10-year warranty, so you never have to have your clears or covers restitched.

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How can you avoid mould and dampness when using a storm cover over your bimini?

Any of the damp-rid type products from the supermarket will do. However, you do need to regularly air out the boat. I recommend a few hours every week if it is constantly out in the weather.

Is there something to lubricate and protect the zippers?

You should use a food grade silicone spray.

Unfortunately, it does wash off so this should be applied regularly.

Should you spray the studs to protect them?

A better option for the studs is Vaseline. Use a cotton bud to apply and get right in under the lip of the durables on the cover side.

What is the lifespan of bimini/storm covers?

The two most popular fabrics to use for biminis and storm covers are canvas and boat hooding. We recommend Mariner boat hooding and Sunbrella Plus canvas for these items as we have been using them for over 16 years, and have found them to perform extremely well in our harsh weather environment.

With regular cleaning and maintenance, these fabrics can give you up to 10 years, although Sunbrella will probably need re-waterproofing earlier than that.

They have a product called 303 Fabric Guard for this purpose, which will re-waterproof any canvas product.

Is there any maintenance required for the bimini frames?

As you can imagine, the salt air and salt water on the frames are the biggest issue. Keeping the frames clean and wiping some food-grade silicone spray over them is the best way to maintain them.

What are the advantages of updating your bimini and clears?

It is important that you think carefully about the options when replacing clears and storm covers, and take into account how you use the boat. A new set of clears will obviously improve visibility while underway. If you are thinking about replacing your clears, you should also think about replacing your bimini top. It is far easier and more economical to create a new set of clears and bimini than it is to try and match old clears to a new bimini. A good set of clears and covers will not only add value to your boat, but will make it easier to sell when the time comes.

FEB - APRIL 2017

Notes from the skippers

BOAT OPINION

The apt Apps We have asked some readers to share information about the applications they actually use in their boating activities. We have chosen the input of one reader, JAMES GORDON, who was happy enough to share his favourite apps and the reasons why.

iSailor (Apple and Android) I have been using iSailor for many years as I find the graphics and the vector charts to be of the highest quality. Until last year, it was an Apple only device but in 2015 they launched the app for Android users as well. Both apps are available on iTunes and Google Play. Charts are purchased within the app, and are a reasonable cost for the quality and accuracy.

In addition, there are subscription options available to purchase such as AIS internet (requires WiFi or 3/4G), weather service, sailing guides and tides and currents for nominal cost. When navigating around commercial traffic/shipping lanes, the AIS feature is invaluable to monitor commercial traffic with information on the vessel’s course, speed, CPA (closest point of approach), etc.

Another very useful feature of iSailor is the input of your own boat parameters (length, beam, draft, transducer depth). You can then decide on the minimum charted depth (underkeel clearance) where you wish to navigate, and the app will draw the limits of the channel (in red) based on your route showing the ‘go, no go’ areas based on these inputs (no allowance for tide). It is the closest you will get to road markings on the water!

Routes are easy to input and change as required, with the ability to export and import routes and or fishing spots from fellow users!

Navionics (Apple and Android) I have only started using Navionics recently as there is now more up-to-date depth information displayed as a result of its ‘community edit’ function where anyone can submit details of soundings taken in any area to Navionics (downloaded from their boat’s compatible sounder), which are then used to update the relevant charts. Navionics has almost daily updates on their charts so there is no excuse for using out-of-date data.

The more detailed soundings of up to 0.5-metre contour allow more places to be explored/fished, and more confidence in underkeel clearance particularly

when cruising around the relatively shallow Gold Coast/ Moreton Bay channels. Navionics also has a useful ‘sync button’ which allows you to sync data across all your devices which comes in handy for route planning at home on the Navionics WebApp, and then uploading to whichever device your are using.

Willy Weather All the weather data you will ever need in one app! Wind (current and forecast including trend), tides, weather forecast (including warnings), rainfall (per hour forecast percentage), rain radar, sunrise, sunset etc. The best thing is, it’s FREE! As well as the above apps, I also use a Bad Elf GPS/ GLONASS connector (https://bad-elf.com), which inserts into the lightning connector on Apple devices (no Android yet), and gives an accuracy down to 2.5m that is good enough for most navigation.

Cruising around the GC, I tend to use the Navionics app the most. Where I am happy with the charted depths, then the iSailor takes preference. Most of my time on the water is split between the Gold Coast and the Sunshine Coast (jet skiing, cruising and fishing).

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BOAT GUIDE GALLEY

Spicy Sour Fish Soup

TOM YUM NAHM SAI PHLA Photos by Juliet Cameron

Southeast Asian seafood delights is a 3 -par t recipe series by Chef WOODY ZEN who shares exciting seafood recipes for you to experience authentic homemade Thai dishes.

I’m sure you’ve all tried a tom yum soup at your local Thai restaurant. But nothing is better than making your own at home. Tom yum means ‘spicy sour soup’. There are many versions of tom yum, but this recipe has a clear base and is a less complex version, which is easy and really adaptable for any seafood or even chicken. For this one, I have used local flathead. Don’t be scared of the word ‘spicy’ either. You can make it as hot or mild as you like!

Ingredients: 4 cups of water (or you can use fish or chicken stock if you have it, but water is fine.)

1 lemongrass stalk cut into 2 inch pieces 2 coriander plants (separate the roots for the stock and set the leaves aside for garnishing) I’m a chef from Thailand who now calls the Gold Coast home. Creating food has always been central to my life. Growing up, my family and I would cook and sell food at markets or on the streets of Bangkok.

Later in my 20’s, I set off to the island of Koh Samet, where I opened a restaurant to cater for international guests. Now an accredited professional chef working on the Gold Coast, I know the most important thing I have brought to my cooking here in Australia is the Thai ideal of balancing flavours. Using the five fundamental flavour senses, we always taste the dish in progress and assess if it has the right amount of saltiness, sourness, spiciness, sweetness or bitterness. This can be applied to all types of food and adjusted according to your taste.

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3 Kaffir lime leaves (see note) 2-inch chunk of galangal, sliced (see note) 500 grams flathead fish fillets, cut into 2-inch cubes (or any fish, seafood or meat) 10 cherry tomatoes 80 grams button mushroom, cut into quarters

Place water in the pot on a high heat stove top. Add the lemongrass pieces to release the aroma. Add the coriander roots, kaffir lime leaves and galangal. Wait for the stock to boil and then add fish, tomatoes, mushrooms and red onions. Lower the heat to simmer. Add the fish sauce and salt, and wait for the fish to cook. It shouldn’t take long, and try not to overcook it. Before serving, add freshly squeezed lime juice.

Try adding a bit and tasting it, then adding more to balance for your taste needs. This is an introduction to balancing the salty with sour! Add chopped red chili and coriander leaves. Enjoy with steamed jasmine rice.

2 red onions, cut into quarters 7 tablespoons of fish sauce 1 tablespoon of salt (less if you use stock) 3 tablespoons of lime juice 3 red chili, thinly sliced (use more depending on your spice threshold; the larger chilies have less heat, but it’s a good idea to test first!)

Note: Kaffir lime leaves can be found in some supermarkets and most good Asian stores. Galangal is a root spice similar to ginger, but do not substitute with ginger.

You can find it fresh, pickled or even frozen in most Asian stores. If you can’t find these two ingredients, you can still make a really nice simple soup, just not as fragrant.

FEB - APRIL 2017

BOAT BOAT GUIDE GALLEY

Shop and Dine N

by boat

avigate towards the jetty. Hop off. Secure the ropes. Take your shopping bag. And off you go for retail therapy. Isn’t that an idealistic picture of a life in a city of waterways?

That dreamy picture is a reality on the Gold Coast with many centres offering boaties easy access for shopping and dining.

Aside from the marinas with adjacent shopping centres, such as Marina Mirage, Hope Island Shopping Centre, The Marine Village in Sanctuary Cove, there are also shopping centres on the Gold Coast that are lesser known to be directly accessible by water. Whether one is out to conduct a comprehensive shopping activity, or simply to have a relaxed and spontaneous stop while cruising, these independent centres offer the boaties free public berthing for more accessible shopping.

Pacific Fair The newly refurbished Pacific Fair in Broadbeach can be accessed from the Nerang River via the canals of Broadbeach Waters. Being a full-scale mall, with cinemas, supermarkets, banks, department stores and an extensive line-up of specialty stores and services, it is a comprehensive shopping complex on the Gold Coast that offers easy access via the water. *Pacific Fair is along the Broadbeach Waters canal between the Hooker Blvd and the Pacific Fair Dr bridges.

Runaway Bay Centre In the northern area of the Gold Coast, the Runaway Bay Shopping Village is accessible from The Broadwater through the canal entry towards Biggera Waters. The centre has two floating pontoons on the Boardwalk Canal, outside the food court. The berths can accommodate 11 vessels for free, for a maximum of three hours.

With supermarkets, food court, discount department stores, specialty shops and services, it offers a convenient and local shopping experience. *Runaway Bay Centre is accessible from the Broadwater through the canal entry between the Shearwater Esplanade and Anglers Esplanade, past the Bayview St. bridge, in Runaway Bay.

Capri on Via Roma

COME BY BOAT - 8 BERTHS PUBLIC PONTOON

The upmarket Capri on Via Roma, in the Isle of Capri, is a waterfront shopping and dining destination in Surfers Paradise.

The trendy restaurants, cafes, specialty shops and services make up the market hall that is directly accessible from its jetties. The size of the centre allows for a very relaxed and easy-going ambience. The waterfront al fresco dining area also offers an unrestricted view of the water. *Capri on Via Roma is accessible from the Nerang River in Surfers Paradise, via the canal north of the Via Roma bridge, on the west-southwest of the river.

Centres with berthing options have their added value to the Gold Coast shopping and dining experience. The Gold Coast is well known for its canals and boating lifestyle. What better way to do your shopping than by boat. No traffic snarls and no trying to find a car park.

Gold Coasters and visitors should be able to enjoy the waterways in many ways.

“It is all about leisure and lifestyle. Being able to arrive by boat for retail therapy or dining is quintessentially Gold Coast.”

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71

BOAT GUIDE JOURNEY

HOUSEBOATING on Noosa River

Ha pp y Jac k

By Roselle Tenefrancia “So where is our next destination?” I asked my husband and son. After a full week or so of driving up to the Capricorn Coast and back down to the Sunshine Coast, stopping where our noses told us to spend the night, we thought that our next destination should not really be a destination.

Rather, we decided to book ourselves on a three-night trip where we can take the kitchen and the bed with us - not exactly a destination for sure, but a journey.

Our road trip took its toll on us on the way back from Capricorn Coast heading back down to the Sunshine Coast. We were exhausted from being strapped up in our seats for hours. So for our last stop before heading back home to the Gold Coast, a houseboat adventure awaited on Noosa River.

Without prior bookings, we headed down to the Noosa River in Tewantin, and consulted with Luxury Afloat Noosa down at the Memorial Park Jetty. My husband made an executive decision to take Happy Jack, a six-berth 33-foot houseboat with three decks. It was to be our first houseboat holiday as a family.

The boat had all the amenities necessary to live in it. Clean linen, complete sets of kitchenware and dinnerware, cleaning items, fishing tackle, full emergency gear, and an outdoor dining set on the top deck - all made it feel like home on the water.

Our itinerary set, we were driven upstream to our first anchorage across Make Peace Island.

We did not feel so isolated yet at this point, as the resort was a stone’s throw away. The night was quiet and peaceful on the river, and my son and I looked out onto the horizon for a beautiful sunset as we waited for the eagle to visit its chicks on the nest on top of one of the trees by the riverbank on the side of Noosa North Shore.

For some reason, while we were there, catfish were abundant in this part of the river, so dinner was a barbecued one. I do not think that many

72

people would think of eating catfish, but it is a common fish dish for Asians. We also caught a cod and similarly placed it on the barbie to grill.

Moving upstream, we ventured into a more serene anchorage, past Lake Cooroibah, close to the infamous John’s Landing camping grounds. Our second night was more relaxed as we already felt settled. Our five-year-old son was also more familiar with the boat, so he was behaving more confidently inside and outside.

In the morning, we climbed into the dingy and headed to the campsite. We were told there was a small shop there for some groceries so we thought of visiting. The campsite is—let’s just say, it is what it is. We walked through the campers and up the road to the shop, which sold very basic items, but enough to get you by if you do end up using up your supplies.

Our third anchorage was downstream, right across Gympie Terrace—the heart of Noosaville.

With sandbars and more tourist spots to visit on land, we enjoyed our dingy trips to the mainland to have satisfying meals, special sweet treats, and freshly brewed hot coffees—a more touristy experience for sure.

Our son was happy building his “ginormous” sand castle on a sandbar, and spent a whole afternoon on the sand. He loved the quick trips on the dingy and exploring the shallow banks where the pelicans were.

But as in all journeys, this one also had to end.

Our last afternoon was spent on the sandbar and jumping in the water from our boat. We had dinner in one of the restaurants on the tourist strip, and enjoyed a nightcap in the boat under the star-filled sky.

Our first houseboat holiday is one that is more an experience than just another tourist activity.

Life on board is not easy, but it is simple and enjoyable. Without the hard ground beneath you, floating in your own little “hotel” accommodation is what you may call a “rocking” adventure.

FEB - APRIL 2017

BOAT JOURNEY

Boating

duffygoldcoast.com.au

for

Romance

By Paige Mengel

T

he notion of romance brings about different feelings and emotions for each individual. For some, relaxing with their loved one at home having cheese board and wine is quintessential; for other couples, a day on their tinny, fishing and having a laugh are what light their fire. There are many romantic Gold Coast destinations and hideaways accessible by boat, jet ski or other watercraft to create lasting memories. With romance in mind, here are some ideas to create a unique romantic celebration with your partner.

1300 256 836 or +61 408 186 554

The Gold Coast offers a multitude of luscious green public parkland.

In addition, the Gold Coast offers more canals than Venice. Combine these two attributes and you will find that many of these parklands adjoin our abundance of canals reachable by boat and jet ski. From the relaxing and serene Cascade Gardens in Broadbeach Waters all the way to the Southport Broadwater Parklands, and little shaded beach crystalblueyachtcharters.com.au spots north of Southport, with a view of the Broadwater. You and your soul mate can pack your salads, cheeses, wines and candles, and venture through the river systems or the Broadwater, and access these community parks with greenery and calm. Lay down a cosy rug on your own private al fresco spot, pop a bottle of champagne, and BAM! you have an idealistic escape accessible via your vessel. Of course, Wave Break Island is always a handy option too!

If you have the budget and want to venture out on South Stradbroke, Tipplers or Couran Cove are delightfully dreamy nature spots for you to enjoy. From either a delicious breakfast or lunch at Tipplers Café, or a cosy and sparkling evening dinner at one of the many Couran Cove restaurants, the stress-free and easy accessibility of these two locations for your vessel provide extra bonus points when planning your day away. Booking a romantic dinner at any of the waterfront restaurants and cafes along the city’s waterways, where public berths are available, offer options closer to the city.

Specialists in: •Corporate charter •Weddings •Airport Transfers• Heli banner towing •Scenic flights •Aerial Photography •Aerial Inspection •Sky Crane •Boat show transfers Gold Coast Helitours, Mirage Heliport Sea World Drive, Main Beach, QLD 4217.

Phone: 07 5591 8457 Fax: 07 5526 3730 Email: info@goldcoasthelitours.com.au Website: www.goldcoasthelitours.com.au

Two stunning romantic hotspots accessible by boat or jet ski for southern Gold Coasters are the glorious Tallebudgera and Currumbin Creeks. On days where the surrounding water is crystal clear, the sand is white and the sun is beaming, these places make you feel like you are sitting on any tropical destination the world over. And the good thing is, they are right in our very own Gold Coast backyard. If you and your partner enjoy being active, then activities you can attempt your hand at include stand up paddle boarding or canoeing. Along these creeks are cosy spots to lay down your picnic blanket and soak in the relaxing energy of the flowing waters.

Have no boat or jet ski? Then hire one! You can go on a jet ski adventure, take one of the many romantic canal cruises, or organise sunset and dinner on a gondola. There is nothing stopping you from accessing amazing romantic Gold Coast locations via our creeks, rivers, and the Broadwater. If you have the desire, there will be a way to make you and your partner’s romantic visions come true and create lasting memories.

A boat and water add romance to any day out. The pair joined together create positive vibes, and take us all to a place where the water gives the rider an opportunity to feel free in the open air.

BOATGOLDCOAST.COM. AU

73

BOAT GUIDE

DRINK DRIVING AND MARINE LICENSING IN QUEENSLAND

By Anthony Stanton, MER - Director of Business Solutions

A

ny mariner worth their salt knows that alcohol and boats are not a good mix. Many marine incidents are attributable to the consumption of alcohol by one or more of the masters involved. Such incidents are even more regrettable because they would likely not have occurred if alcohol was not involved.

Like their land counterparts, marine authorities continue to be frustrated by the occurrence of incidents, damage to property, injuries and fatalities that have alcohol as a root cause. This frustration has resulted in the strict regulation of the use of alcohol by persons in charge of a vessel, which can result in heavy fines and loss of marine licences.

The loss of a marine licence is an embarrassment and an inconvenience to recreational boaties, but is a catastrophic loss of livelihood to the maritime professional. In this article, we briefly examine the legal processes behind a marine drink driving offence, and the potential consequences for boaties and marine professionals.

What is Marine Drink Driving?

In Queensland, the law for operating boats while intoxicated is the same for driving cars. Section 79 (1) of the Transport Operations (Road Use Management) Act 1995 (the Act), makes it an offence for a person who is under the influence of liquor or a drug to drive a motor vehicle, tram, train or vessel. Vessel is defined under the act to include ships, boats, or any kind of vessel designed for use in navigation whatever the means of its propulsion. This definition has been interpreted very broadly by the courts, almost to the extent that if a person is in control of anything on the water, that person must not be under the influence of liquor.

The allowable blood alcohol content is generally the same for cars - .05 Blood Alcohol Concentration or BAC. However, if you are in control of a commercial passenger vessel, the allowable BAC is zero.

What are the consequences?

You must go to court after being caught for any drink driving offence, including marine offences. If found guilty by the

crystalblueyachtcharters.com.au

magistrate, a person charged with marine drink driving will likely be fined and be disqualified from driving a vessel for a period of time. The severity of the fine and length of disqualification will depend on the circumstances, such as previous convictions and traffic history, and the maximum penalty is dependent on the BAC. For example, a typical BAC reading of .075 could result in a maximum fine of $1706, or 3 monthsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; imprisonment, where a high-level BAC of over .15 could result in a fine of $3,413, or 9 months in jail.

Can my recreational marine licence be cancelled or suspended?

Your marine licence cannot be cancelled or suspended by the court as a result of a motor vehicle infringement. However, the court may disqualify you from holding a Queensland-issued marine licence if you are convicted of marine drink driving under section 79 (drink driving), or section 80 (refusing to provide breath sample) of the Transport Operations (Road Use Management) Act. If your Queensland marine licence is cancelled or suspended, all of your Queensland issued marine licences are affected.

If disqualified, you will be provided with an order which you must present to a Transport and Main Roads Department office in order to remove the RMDL or PWCL indicator on your licence.

If you disagree with the disqualification, the order can be appealed or you may apply for a restricted marine licence.

What about a commercial marine licence?

Most commercial marine licences in Queensland are issued by the Australian Maritime Safety Authority (AMSA) pursuant to the Marine Safety (Domestic Commercial Vessel) National Law Act 2012 (the National Law). National Law licences are commercial Certificates of Competency such as Near Coastal Coxswain, Master and Marine Engine Driver.

The courts do not yet have jurisdiction to make orders about drink driving on Commonwealth Marine Licences, so there is no power for a

magistrate to give orders to cancel or suspend a National Law marine licence.

Readers should note, however, that a marine drink driving offence is likely to be notified to Maritime Safety Queensland (MSQ). MSQ may write to AMSA to seek the suspension or cancellation of a National Law Certificate of Competency on the basis that a convicted person is no longer a fit and proper person to hold a commercial marine licence. If AMSA chooses to take any action in response to a request by MSQ, there will be an opportunity for the licence holder to present their case pursuant to a fair process laid down in that National Law and Marine Order 505.

Soâ&#x20AC;Ś..what are the key messages?

If you return a positive breath test while in control of a boat in Queensland, you will most likely be charged and will be summonsed to attend court. It is likely that you will be fined, and your marine licence may be in jeopardy. If you hold a Queensland recreational boat licence, the court may disqualify you from holding that licence for a period of time, or MSQ may ask you to show cause why your licence should not be cancelled or suspended.

An expert legal representative can often engage with the magistrate to reduce the fine and period of disqualification, or make representations to MSQ concerning any show cause notice for suspension or cancellation.

If you hold a commercial licence, the magistrate in Queensland has no power to suspend or disqualify.

However, MSQ will be notified and may ask AMSA to act against your licence. For any action to be taken, the regulator must demonstrate that the circumstances of the drink driving conviction indicate that you are no longer a fit and proper person to hold a commercial marine licence.

In this instance, the early appointment of a maritime lawyer can dramatically enhance the prospects of convincing AMSA that the commercial licence should not be suspended.

PRACTICAL LEGAL SERVICES FOR THE BOATING COMMUNITY Tired of expensive advice from lawyers who have never been out of sight of land?

We specialise in cost-effective legal services to the boating community. MER Solutions can help with all aspects of maritime law, including marine insurance claims, purchasing of boats, chartering, incident management, licensing advice, marine pollution, regulatory compliance and registration. Our lawyers have more than 50 years of experience as mariners, marine regulators and maritime lawyers.

Capt John Kavanagh AFNI MQLS

0481 170 373

74

www.mer-solutions.com (Incorporating Kavanagh Law)

FEB - APRIL 2017

FEBRUARY

Time

0435 1110 WE 1734 2341

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0.19 1.55 0.14 1.27

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2 0000 0625

0.27 1.45 1819 0.17 TH

17 0021 0614

0.16 1.52 1703 0.12 TH 2321 1.46

17 0501 1103

1.60 0.34 1221 1.17 SU 1813 0.33

17 0617 1159

0038 0628 FR 1243 1910

1.27 0.37 1.33 0.21

18 0115 0714

0522 0.25 1134 1.39 FR 1748 0.19

18 0546 1140

0105 0742 MO 1339 1919

1.54 0.41 1.07 0.41

18 0036 0718

0146 0740 SA 1346 2009

1.29 0.44 1.22 0.25

19 0222 0834

0016 0624 SA 1226 1838

1.44 0.36 1.25 0.26

19 0021 0640

0218 0907 TU 1505 2039

1.50 0.42 1.05 0.46

19 0138 0830

5 0300 0907

1.34 0.47 SU 1502 1.13 2115 0.26

20 0336 1001

5 0122 0738

1.42 0.44 SU 1335 1.13 1939 0.33

0120 20 0752

5 0333 1020

1.49 0.38 WE 1624 1.10 2159 0.44

20 0247 0938

6 0413 1035

1.43 0.43 1623 1.10 MO 2223 0.23

21 0441 1110

6 0238 0909

1.42 0.46 1501 1.06 MO 2054 0.37

21 0231 0916

6 0442 1118

1.51 0.32 1727 1.19 TH 2306 0.38

21 0353 1032

0519 1147 TU 1735 2325

1.55 0.34 1.12 0.17

22 0534 1202

0355 1034 TU 1626 2211

1.47 0.42 1.06 0.35

22 0344 1027

0539 1.54 1205 0.26 FR 1818 1.29

22 0450 1118

0617 1.65 1245 0.24 WE 1836 1.17

8

23 0619 1244

0504 1139 WE 1736 2317

1.54 0.33 1.13 0.28

23 0447 1121

0001 0627 SA 1245 1901

0.32 1.55 0.22 1.38

23 0540 1200

9 0020 0709

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1.61 0.25 TH 1832 1.22

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0.27 1.54 SU 1321 0.19 1939 1.45

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25 0053 0737

10 0013 0652

25 0622 1242

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0.11 1.74 TH 1333 0.16 1928 1.23 0.06 1.78 1417 0.11 FR 2014 1.27

0156 0838 SA 1458 2056

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0.04 1.77 0.09 1.30

1.21 0.48 1217 1.19 FR 1828 0.35

1.19 0.56 SA 1304 1.09 1915 0.40

1.19 0.60 SU 1409 1.01 2015 0.44

1.23 0.58 MO 1528 0.97 2129 0.45 1.30 0.52 1642 0.99 TU 2236 0.41

1.39 0.43 WE 1741 1.05 2329 0.34 1.48 0.35 TH 1828 1.12 0.27 1.56 FR 1320 0.26 1909 1.20

0.19 1.63 1354 0.19 SA 1948 1.27

0132 0813 SU 1429 2027

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0.12 1.68 0.12 1.34

2 0428 1049 3 4

7 8

0.21 1.66 1314 0.19 FR 1918 1.30

0101 0735 SA 1352 1958

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0.16 1.68 0.15 1.36

0.38 1.26 1700 0.31 FR 2336 1.36

0.46 1.16 SA 1734 0.38

3

1.32 0.53 SU 1226 1.07 1817 0.45

4

1.28 0.57 MO 1330 0.99 1912 0.51 1.27 0.57 1451 0.97 TU 2029 0.54

1.30 0.52 WE 1609 1.00 2152 0.51

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1.37 0.43 TH 1712 1.08 2255 0.44

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1.46 0.34 FR 1801 1.18 2346 0.34

1.54 0.24 1844 1.29 SA

0030 0704 SU 1318 1925

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0.24 1.61 0.15 1.40

0.24 1.52 1352 0.17 MO 2014 1.50 0210 0819 TU 1422 2047

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0.23 1.47 0.18 1.53

1.39 0.52 TU 1259 1.00 1826 0.54

1.35 0.52 WE 1417 0.99 1937 0.58 1.34 0.48 TH 1533 1.04 2101 0.57 1.38 0.41 1636 1.13 FR 2214 0.50

1.44 0.31 SA 1729 1.25 2313 0.40

1.51 0.21 SU 1815 1.39

0.30 1.56 MO 1238 0.12 1859 1.53 0.21 1.59 1318 0.06 TU 1942 1.65

0142 0755 WE 1358 2027

26

27 0213 0851

12 0144 0814

27 0113 0743

12 0248 0852

27 0232 0841

13 0321 0954

28 0255 0928

13 0225 0850

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13 0325 0924

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29 0243 0904

14 0403 0958

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15 0442 1104

15 0342 0957

30 0332 0947

15 0443 1033

30 0520 1115

0.10 1.65 MO 1613 0.14 2216 1.30 0.18 1.55 1647 0.18 TU 2255 1.27

0.28 1.43 WE 1719 0.24 2336 1.24

0.08 1.70 MO 1505 0.08 2107 1.40 0.07 1.68 TU 1543 0.06 2149 1.45

0.13 1.66 SU 1428 0.13 2036 1.40

0.13 1.61 MO 1501 0.14 2112 1.42 0.16 1.54 1533 0.17 TU 2147 1.43

0.22 1.45 WE 1602 0.21 2222 1.41

0.16 1.65 MO 1354 0.08 2006 1.50 0.10 1.66 TU 1432 0.04 2047 1.59

0.08 1.63 1510 0.03 WE 2130 1.64 0.10 1.55 TH 1551 0.06 2216 1.66

0.25 1.42 WE 1451 0.20 2120 1.54

0.49 1.06 1734 0.47 MO

12 0239 0918

0.05 1.73 SU 1536 0.10 2137 1.31

0.28 1.35 TH 1518 0.23 2152 1.54 0.32 1.28 1547 0.28 FR 2227 1.52

0.38 1.21 SA 1618 0.34 2303 1.49

m 0.43 1.13 0.40 1.44

0.14 1.58 0.02 1.75

0.11 1.53 TH 1439 0.02 2112 1.81 0.12 1.45 FR 1523 0.07 2201 1.82

0.17 1.34 1609 0.15 SA 2251 1.79

0.23 1.23 SU 1658 0.25 2348 1.72

31 0423 1032

0.16 1.44 FR 1634 0.13 2305 1.65

New Moon

First Quarter

Full Moon

© Copyright Commonweatth of Australia 2014, Bureau of Meteorology.

BOATGOLDCOAST.COM. AU

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

R

educe damage to yourself, your boat and the reef with the innovative and award winning Catch’n’Release anchor release system.

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“Innovator Peter Powell says he has never met an Anchor he couldn’t dislodge with the use of the Catch’n’Release Anchor Retrieval System.”

Catch’n’Release does what other devices don’t do – it changes the retrieval point of the anchor. It’s release coupling disengages the direction of pull from the top of the anchor and engages the bottom of the anchor. This ensures that the anchor dislodges by coming out the way it went in.

For more details visit www.catchnrelease.com.au

75

BOAT JOURNEY

ALL ABOARD TIPS FOR A LIVEABOARD

LIFE

With many waterways on the Gold Coast (and beyond!), living aboard a new (or not-so-new) boat is all very appealing. Has the romantic idea of living on board a boat become a very tempting option for you? SUE PARRY-JONES provides a short list of things to consider.

PLAY BY THE RULES The first thing you must decide is where you will actually live when you are not travelling - at a marina, on a mooring, or at anchor.

While several marinas allow for liveaboards and provide facilities for their use, there is unfortunately very limited space available across the Gold Coast. Further, it is no longer possible to obtain one of the very few moorings that remain, though this situation may change if moorings that were removed and due to be relocated are returned to the water. Living at anchor then becomes the most viable option for those considering a liveaboard life.

There is no national or state legislative restriction on people living aboard a boat. It must be noted, however, that local councils have jurisdiction to apply locally appropriate rules. On the Gold Coast, the Gold Coast Waterways Authority currently has the task of monitoring all boating activity and has the mandate for enforcing all relevant rules and restrictions relating to the waterways use. It is imperative that liveaboards be well informed about their local rules and comply with them.

On the Broadwater, there are several anchoring zones and a requirement that vessels anchor for certain periods, and then move. Some anchorages have a limit of no more than 24 consecutive hours in any 30-day period, and others no more than 7 consecutive days in any 60-day period. Moving between anchorages is permitted to allow access to anchorages for all.

So long as you are moving around as required, you will not incur any wrath.

Complying with other rules like the proper wastewater disposal is also mandatory. Pumpout facilities are available at Southport Yacht Club, Mariner’s Cove, Runaway Bay, and several of the Hope Island marinas. Composting toilets are becoming very popular with liveaboards making it easier to avoid pollution.

76

BE SELF-RELIANT You have to be pretty resourceful to manage a life on board a boat. Things break and must be repaired or replaced. But, unlike in a house where nothing is going to happen while you wait for the plumber, you may find yourself needing to figure out a quick temporary fix so your home does not sink while you wait!

On a more day-to-day level, if you are halfway through cooking a meal, for example, and realise you do not have enough flour, you cannot just pop out to the car and run down to the shop. It is a much bigger ordeal, and often too big an ordeal!

However, the boating community very closely resembles the old-fashioned village that many of our parents grew up knowing: you can drop by a neighbouring boat to see if you can borrow a cup of flour to complete the recipe! Still it’s true that, on the whole, liveaboard boating is going to require a little more resilience and creativity than living in a regular bricks-and-mortar property.

BE SELF-MANAGING Liveaboards need to be more independent and managing of their own lives. One of the things people often do not realise about liveaboards who live at anchor is how much they must do for themselves.

There is no water supply, electricity supply, garbage collection or postal delivery. All these things must be arranged by and for themselves.

They often have to go to elaborate lengths to set up things like wireless Internet connections and have greatly limited access even then for Internet use and of course higher rates for the access they do have. “Home” delivery service can be quite a problem as many shops struggle with the idea of delivering to anything other than a house with a clearly visible number.

Those who choose this lifestyle must also be unfazed by the occasional difficulties that this life might throw at them, such as arriving at a jetty in the evening and finding that your dinghy’s outboard has been stolen.

To make this life work, it is important to maintain a high degree of self-sufficiency and a sense of humour!

BE NOT SCARED OF BAD WEATHER When you live in a house, bad weather impacts very little. For the liveaboard, this is not the case.

Sometimes when the weather is bad, it is not possible to get off the boat for days at a time. Other times it is necessary to remain on board to manage the vessel during these conditions, and sometimes to protect your boat from neighbouring unattended vessels. All these things must be considered if the weather is less than blissful!

Many liveaboards also work on the land and must face difficult weather to get to work. Taking a change of clothes in a dry bag is often the solution, but it’s not a lot of fun arriving at work soaked through even if a dry set of clothes is at hand!

BE OPEN TO SOLITUDE AND ISOLATION Here is an interesting contrast. On the one hand, living on board a boat is more physically isolating than living in a house with actual neighbours, where you have a sense of proximity with others.

Yet, on the other hand, the reality is that you will likely have a stronger sense of community than in a suburban setting. The boating community is a lot like an old fashioned village. It’s not at all uncommon for others to drop by and say hi on their way home, or for friends to call past on their way out. There is (almost) always the camaraderie of the boating community. It is the other liveaboards who are most likely to hop on board their own dinghy to help other boaties in need. During bad weather, the liveaboards usually prevent unattended boats from causing damage to themselves or others, or fish floating debris from the waterways, or rescue stranded jetskiers who have come to grief.

If you are thinking of making a boat your home, then it would be true to say that, while it is not all a bed of roses - especially when the weather is difficult the liveaboard lifestyle appeals to many and is still reasonably manageable on the Gold Coast.

Sue Parry-Jones has lived on board and sailed her boat for close to six years. She has made the Gold Coast her home while her son completes his training as a marine electrician.

GOLD COAST MARINAS THAT ALLOW LIVEABOARDS (LAS): • Southport Yacht Club (Operates a liveaboard quota and can only accept new LAs if and when other LAs leave) • Mariners Cove (Primarily operates for commercial vessels; has some LAs but needs to limit numbers) • Marina Mirage • Runaway Bay Marina • Hope Harbour Marina (This is managed by a percentage of LAs to other users and ratio is strictly monitored; welcomes LAs as being excellent for marina security) • Hope Island Marina • Horizon Shores (Jacobs Well)

FEB - APRIL 2017

BOAT GOLD COAST

BOATGOLDCOAST.COM. AU

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Wonderful First Year for The Multihull Group T

he Multihull Group (TMG), founded by John Cowpe, Tim Vine and Peter Hrones has had a magnificent first year. The team have exceeded all expectations and in doing so, have been appointed Best Lagoon Overseas distributor for 2016 and acquired the exciting McConaghy brand.

best for the buyer’s unique needs. After the sale, the commissioning process is handled seamlessly whether launching locally or at the factory in Europe. Ongoing servicing and support is handled

by Australia’s leading yacht service company the Windcraft Group Service Centre.

They’ve also enjoyed connecting with Australia’s existing Lagoon owners and participated in a very successful Escapade in the Whitsundays with over 17 Lagoons in attendance.

TMG’s acquisition of the McConaghy brand has further enhanced the success of TMG’s first year

According to John Cowpe, “With Lagoon, we’re working with the number one. Lagoon’s professionalism, design and build strength is unmatched in the industry. Their range of models is unprecedented. For example, the Lagoon 38, which is approaching 1000 boats sold, is now the most popular sailing boat ever made. In the mid range, 170 of the fast new 42s have sold in the first 6 months. And at the top end the recently launched Lagoon Seventy Seven is sold out to the end of 2019.”

The second driving force behind TMG’s successful first year is the level of customer service they provide.

When buyers are choosing their boat they work with a team who have sold more sailing boats in Australia than any other. TMG know what’s right for our unique sailing conditions and what configuration will work

John Cowpe explains, “We’re also very excited to bring McConaghy to the market and offer our buyers a top-end, fast catamaran with stand-out design and options for customisation. Jason Ker’s input in the design has been fabulous and the appointment of ‘design unlimited’ for the interior spaces signals the intent to produce some very nice boats.”

TMG’s second Lagoon 630MY has just been loaded onto the ship and is on her way to Australia.

The team will be conducting private viewings at Sanctuary Cove and Sydney International Boat Shows in 2017. They have also managed to secure a Lagoon 42 for February delivery Downunder. They’ve kept this one light and have fitted a code 0 in black, which will look stunning flying from the single line furler off the factory-fitted prodder. Contact the LAGOON team for more details 1300 175 325 or visiting www.tmglagoon.com

DEDICATED SERVICE CENTRE The Windcraft Group opened their Yacht Service Centre in 2008 to meet needs of an ever-growing family of boat owners and with the goal to lead the industry in terms of owner support. The team have commissioned and subsequently maintained over 400 yachts and power boats.

The Windcraft Group have a full time shipwright and marine electrician on site and enjoy longterm partnerships with multiple specialist subcontractors. The depth of knowledge is superb.

From the moment you sit down to specify your new build Lagoon, you will be guided by a team of professionals focused on delivering the right boat for you and your family, and caring for you for the long term so you can enjoy every precious moment on the water.

CAREFUL COMMISSIONING The team are meticulous with every detail during construction and commissioning. TMG have developed extensive systems checks for every vessel prior to handover. All new boats come with a manufacturer’s warranty backed by the TMG/Windcraft Group. The team have established a systemised warranty procedure and deal directly with Lagoon for you.

The service centre team help you understand what is covered under warranty and help liaise with the manufacturers on your behalf should an issue arise. They love to help owners fulfill their dreams.

Some owners need help to learn to sail or deal with marina berthing. Others want to find spare parts while they are away cruising.

And others want to make the trip of a lifetime across oceans and need the service team to prepare their Lagoon.

Whatever your dreams and aspirations, the team at TMG help you live them.

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FEB - APRIL 2017

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VIEWING PRIVATE E& RY COV A U T C SAN S T SHOW A O B Y SYDNE ESERVE R O T L L CA

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www.lagoon-motoryachts.com www.lagoon-motoryachts.com

a mY…tested Drawing on the lagoon tried and qualities the tried and tested of proven Lagoon hull qualities designs, of proven Lagoon designs, Lagoon makes motorhull catamarans Lagoon motor which, inmakes addition to catamarans their seawhich, in addition their seagoing qualities, their luxury, elegancetoand comfort going qualities, luxury,moored, elegance andincredible comfort whether at sea their or when have whether at sea up or when have incredible range, opening whole moored, new horizons for the range, opening up whole new horizons the owner (one Lagoon 630 MY even crossed the for Atlantic owner Lagoon 630 MY even crossed the Atlantic before (one taking a cruise from Singapore to Japan!). before cruise from Singapore to cruising.

Japan!).

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the multihull grouP the multihull grouP Phone: 1300 175 325 - www.themultihullgroup.com info@themultihullgroup.com Phone: 1300 175 325 - www.themultihullgroup.com info@themultihullgroup.com Sydney Harbour - Phone: 02 8294 4144 Pittwater - Phone: 02 8294 Sydney Harbour - Phone: 024144 8294 4144 Queensland - Phone: 3010 4171 Pittwater - Phone: 0207 8294 4144 Victoria - Phone 03 8488 79634171 Queensland - Phone: 07 3010 Victoria - Phone 03 8488 7963

15/09/2015 09:29