BOAT GOLD COAST MAGAZINE MAY - AUGUST 2017

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INSIDE THIS ISSUE 9 Mayor’s Message 10 Full Moon Photo 12 Superyachts 26 Do Not Fear Sharks 28 Drone Fishing 34 Tackle’n Big Fish 38 No Fear Saltwater 40 Chaparral Surf Gate 46 Pumicestone Passage 50 Monos vs Multis 52 Our Boating Lifestyle 53 Performance Sailing 54 Harryproa Multihulls

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CHARTER Lifestyle For Hire 64 Larger Boat Legal Issues 68 Crew Member Quiz 70 Don’t Buy A Lemon 71 Emission Standards 74 Community Stories 76 Recipe: Fish Salad 78 Boaties’ Red Wine 80 Events Guide 84 Whitsunday Rendezvous

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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Editor’s Note

T

hree years ago, Boat Gold Coast quietly entered the free publication market in the city. Faced with much scepticism and doubt from many, our small team relentlessly moved forward aiming for a bigger and better boating and waterways magazine, edition after edition.

This is our tenth magazine issue, and we are honoured to be able to continue to be strong media that connects the Gold Coast waterways with the boating communities, from the Tweed River to further up the Moreton Bay regions. We open up to the boating communities in Moreton Bay, as we encourage the exchange of information within our shared environments.

We remain steadfast in strongly supporting the industry and the community that sustain us. We also strive harder to provide better information and knowledge in an entertaining and pleasurable manner.

The value of our waterways and their contributions to the dynamic lifestyle and diverse economies of the Gold Coast, as well as the rest of South East Queensland, cannot be overstated. Looking back, we remember how the great visionaries in the city paved the way for the Gold Coast that we have today. Moving forward, we have to nurture the visionaries and each member of the community so we can ensure that our children and their children will still be able to enjoy the waterways we have built and kept for them. And that is what we want to achieve in every piece of writing that we publish – by offering information that everyone can learn from and can use in order to appreciate what our city and the region have to offer.

In this edition, we present a diverse set of new stories that will make you want to sail off to a new challenging destination, to try out the fishing advice of the local experts, and to invest in that luxury superyacht charter your family have been planning for years, or simply to keep turning the pages and soak up exciting information about new technology, new boats, new skills and new events.

A significant event in March this year is worth noting, as it brought out the best in many people, and in particular, the boating industry and community.

When the tropical cyclone Debbie hit the east coast of Queensland and northern New South Wales, she brought massive destruction, causing damage and floods that lasted for weeks. The Whitsundays region was hit hard, with boats and marinas taking the brunt of the cyclone’s winds. But this natural event has also shown that resilience and cooperation are always the strong values that will help people recover quicker – and that was reflected in the quick response of the boating communities.

There are a number of developments that are unravelling with less than a year to go before the Commonwealth Games next year. The city is fasttracking infrastructure projects, and supporting many private initiatives to build on promoting the Gold Coast as the host, as well as an investment and tourism destination. And so we are looking forward to more engagement and activities that foster greater use of and appreciation for the waterways.

Our Crew PUBLISHER

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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, Nic Welch, Jaran Pantic, Brendan Archie, Kevin Ballantine, Joel Wing, Narayan Pattison, Blair McDonald, Caroline Strainig, Geoff Cruse, David Harvey, John Kavanagh, Nicholas J Lockyer, Gary Fooks, Pam Pederson, Woody Zen, Juliet Cameron, Chris Morgan.

COVER PHOTO Cruising north in the Broadwater, a Cruisecat 35, custom built on the Gold Coast by award winning boat designer James Keay. www.cruisecat.net (Photo by Jaran Pantic)

Gold Coast magazine is FREE to readers. The magazine is printed in large format glossy 275W x 345H. We print a minimum of 10,000 copies, and hand deliver to 400 participating locations for distribution on the Gold Coast and surrounding suburbs, cities and towns, from Tweed Heads, throughout the Gold Coast to Manly (and around Moreton Bay).

We distribute to most waterfront business premises and have a high pass-along rate. We also distribute to marine equipment sales and service businesses that receive a quantity of these magazines for distribution, as well as brokers, boating clubs, sports clubs, fishing clubs, sailing clubs, marinas, tackle stores, and real estate agents. Additionally, we conduct boat-to-boat distribution along South Stradbroke Island, door-to-door at select waterfront homes, and shop-to-shop in exclusive shopping strip locations. There are permanent magazine stands at the Gold Coast City Marina, Sanctuary Cove Marina, Hope Island Marina, Hope Harbour Marina, Southport Yacht Club, Marina Mirage Marina, Runaway Bay Marina, and most marinas along the Redlands Highway, and throughout Manly.

We publish the magazine online at the world's largest online magazine publishing site issuu.com. We also conduct social media campaigns on Facebook and Instagram.

How can the South East Queensland region promote the waterways and enhance the boating lifestyle in the lead-up to the Commonwealth Games?

Email me your ideas at editor@boatgoldcoast.com.au.

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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BOAT GOLD COAST

Mayor’s Message With 70km of pristine coastline, 270km of navigable waterways and a climate that boasts 300+ days a year of sunshine, Gold Coast provides a heaven on earth for boat lovers.

This is part of the reason that Boat Gold Coast has become a must-read for the local recreational boaties. It tells the stories that matter through the work of 70 contributing writers and photographers and provides a guide to the growth of this vitally important economic sector of our local economy.

The Gold Coast marine industry has over 600 actively trading businesses, supports close to 2,000 full-time equivalent jobs and generates an estimated $545 million in expenditure. This is aside from another $312 million in exports. Source: SGS Economics and Planning The fact that this magazine is distributed across South East Queensland and attracts online readers from around the world helps boost not only visitation to Gold Coast, but also generates orders for both finished craft and ancillary equipment.

The Gold Coast Marine Precinct at Coomera – Australia’s boating industry capital – is now a thriving employment hub generating hundreds of jobs onsite and thousands more along the supply chain. Such is the craftsmanship and jaw-dropping beauty of the marine craft being produced here, the precinct has become a tourist destination in itself.

The City is now home to more than 40,000 registered watercraft, serviced by hundreds of marine-related businesses and around 20 private and commercial marinas.

If you want to keep pace with recreational boating and the thriving economic sector on the Gold Coast, I encourage you to read Boat Gold Coast to stay informed, educated and entertained. You’ll get independent and accurate insights. It’s a great read!

I am also taking this opportunity to welcome the members and delegates of the International Council of Marine Industry Associations (ICOMIA) and the International Federation of Boat Show Organisers (IFBSO), the leaders of marine industry associations and owners and managers of the leading boat shows from around world, who will converge in our city for International Boating Week on 22-28 May 2017. I also welcome the speakers and participants at the ASMEX Conference in the same week, as well as the visitors at the Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show. These events offer a great opportunity to showcase the city’s magnificent waterways and the Gold Coast boating lifestyle to domestic and international visitors.

MAYOR TOM TATE CITY OF GOLD COAST

Department of Agriculture and Water Resources

Join our recreational boat survey and help keep Australia’s waters healthy All boats can unintentionally carry aquatic plants and animals on the hull, propellers, anchors, lines and fishing gear (called ‘biofouling’).

These aquatic plants and animals can then spread to new locations along Australia’s coastline.

Increased fouling can reduce your boat’s fuel efficiency and speed and increase maintenance costs. It can also threaten our healthy fish habitats and have widespread effects on our economy and health.

To let us know how you keep your boat hull clean, scan the QR code with your mobile device or visit agriculture.gov.au.au/recboatsurvey Survey takes approximately 20 minutes.

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BOAT PHOTOGRAPHY

FULL MOON IN HER HANDS PHOTO AND WORDS BY NIC WELCH

. his photo was taken in the anchorage area on the northern side of Wave T Break Island, looking east. I love this photo as it gives perspective on what you come out in your boat for to enjoy. This moment was captured during winter, a great season to be on the Broadwater as there are generally fewer boats around; hence, less wash to contend with – especially important when boiling water for a cuppa while at anchor, or when relaxing enjoying a few nibblies without your plate sliding off the table. Weather patterns are also a lot more stable during winter, generally with light south-westerlies in the morning and south-easterlies from late morning. Summer, on the other hand, tends to have north-easterlies (which are not good for fishing) and late afternoon thunderstorms are common.

We were at anchor at the time with an incoming tide, and were lucky that our boat was pointing directly at the correct angle for the moonrise. Our volunteer model, Jude, was willing to stay in this position until we took enough photos.

The most challenging part of the process was guiding Jude’s thumbs to make them appear they were touching the centre of the bottom of the moon, without her falling in! This photo took me about 15 shots to get right. If you want a similar shot check the next date and time for the full moon moonrise and be prepared early, as the moon will appear much larger and can glow a brilliant orange colour when rising just above the horizon.

This photo was taken using the in-built camera of an Android tablet. There are ways of ensuring a high-quality photo using phone or tablet cameras. My personal advice is to make sure you have the horizon at level (horizontal). If you are shooting a moving object (such as a dolphin or another boat), predict where the object will be in 1 second and take the photo early, as the “shutter” won’t open immediately.

Ab out Nic Nic was born and raised on the Gold Coast. “My first boating memory was at the age of four (1979) onboard my uncle’s RL24 yacht, and remember needing to lower the mast to fit under the Sundale Bridge. By age five my father and uncle had built an RL28 from scratch in our backyard, and recall the labyrinth of sand banks we needed to navigate through past the Old Southport Bar on the way to South Stradbroke Island. Since then, there have been too many tinnies, jetskis, sailing dinghies, and powerboats to mention!”

Nic owns Gold Coast Boat Hire. He pursued a career in the boating industry because, he says, “I grew sick of my desk job, and yearned for wetter pastures.

Nowadays, I am out on the water for business most days, and I use boats for crabbing in the Broadwater, offshore fishing, and the occasional 16ft skiff sailing race.”

Picturesque waterways The Gold Coast has such an amazing range of waterways perfectly suited to capturing a magical shot – the Broadwater, rivers, mangrove-lined creeks and islands, offshore waters, lakes, surf beaches, and the beautiful South Stradbroke Island. Man-made structures such as the Gold Coast Seaway, the sand pumping jetty, Wave Break Island, and high-rise buildings also make great photo subjects from the water. Further upstream, where salt turns to fresh, the river landscape changes dramatically. There are freshwater creeks and streams, and the amazing Hinze Dam cannot be missed.

During the full moon It is a lot easier to navigate at night during a full moon due to the increased visibility. Hazards, such as crab pot floats, waves, and unlit navigation markers, are easier to see. As the tide height is higher than normal during the full (and new) moon, it is a great time to set some crab pots as muddies and sandies tend to be more active during these higher tides. On the flip side, as the tidal range is greater, you experience stronger currents at mid-tide, more debris is flushed out due to the higher tides, and you need to be more cautious navigating during the lower than normal low tide.

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BOAT GUIDE FEATURE

WHY SUPERYACHTS ARE SUPER A luxury investment is always intriguing for the rest of us who can only dream about them.

The ever-growing ‘hyperbolic’ superyachts are becoming so popular. In this article, ROSELLE TENEFRANCIA provides us with a snapshot of the mega-world of superyachts beyond the superficial. uring Adele’s recent visit for her Australian concert series this year, media had us reading D about her relaxing time spent in Sydney with her son on Ghost II, a 38m yacht built specifically for the Australian charter market. Another celebrity who was spotted in a superyacht in Melbourne early this year was Justin Bieber. It was rumoured that he was on the charter boat Pearl hosting a private party.

The world’s super rich have been investing in their own superyachts for over a century now.

Their motivations and objectives for building these yachts are probably as diverse as their businesses and passions in life. Many superyachts are used for charter, and the rich traveller will always find a superyacht to relax in for their offthe-chart holidays anywhere in the world. There are superyachts that are privately owned and are used for other meaningful purposes, aside from leisure and pleasure.

FIRST THINGS FIRST It has been suggested that the first known superyacht was built in 1865 for the ruler of Egypt, Khedive Ismail Pasha. The SS Mahroussa (meaning “guarded by God's blessings”) was a 478-ft (145.7m) iron-hulled yacht built in England by the Samuda Brothers. She was the Egyptian royal yacht until the monarchy was overthrown in 1952.

In the early 1900s, luxury yachts had become popular as symbols of wealth and pleasure. It was also during this period that the term “superyacht” began to be used. The Jemima F., III was the “largest yacht in the world driven by motor power” at the time, launched in July 1908. This 111-ft yacht was owned by Charles Henry Fletcher, and named after his wife Jemima. More superyachts were built in that era, mainly by American billionaires.

Some examples are: SS Delphine (1921), an 80m yacht built by Horace Dodge of the Dodge cars; Jezebel (1927), an 80m one built by Russell Alger; and Nahlin (1930s), a 91m yacht built by Lady Yule, a textile heiress.

Billionaires from other countries took to building yachts after WW2, with the most famous one built

by Aristotle Onassis, called Christina O, named after his daughter. It was a 90m long warship that he converted into a private yacht in 1954. Decades on, yacht builders have built many more impressive 12

and beautiful superyachts. Between 1997 and 2008, there was a massive growth in the number, size, and popularity of large private or super-sized luxury yachts in the 24- to 70-metre size range.

A SUPERYACHT DEFINED It may be safe to presume that the term “superyacht” was coined to describe the enormity of the early large yachts that were built for personal and private use, and perhaps to also distinguish them from commercial and military ships of similar size.

Today, the superyacht is loosely defined as a very expensive, privately-owned, professionally crewed sailing or motor yacht. However, technically, and for purposes of applying quality standards and safety regulations, a “superyacht” is a large pleasure vessel that is at least 24 metres in length. In the international regulatory framework of yachts, this definition is the only one that is universally accepted. The terms “megayacht” and “gigayacht” are hyperbolic names coined by media, and thus, are not distinct from the term “superyacht”. The rules that apply to a superyacht in any jurisdiction equally apply to a megayacht or a gigayacht.

REGULATIONS FOR COMMERCIAL USE In Australia, the Department of Immigration and Border Protection defines a superyacht as any high value luxury sailing ship or motor vessel which is all of the following: 24 metres or longer in length; not carrying cargo; and used for sport or pleasure. This definition is obviously for purposes of determining the coverage of the regulations on importation or transit. Further, this definition also determines the applicability of biosecurity standards. The Department of Agriculture considers superyachts as high-risk vessels due to the exotic locations visited and the biosecurity volume of timber used in the construction. Biosecurity inspections for superyachts are conducted at the first port of arrival in Australia. These border agencies are instrumental in conducting inspections in points of entry.

In 2016, the Australian Marine Safety Authority (AMSA) issued Marine Order 52, which became effective in March 2016. This marine order adopts LY3 Code (The UK’s Large Yacht Code of 2012) as modified for Australia, for regulated Australian vessels that are large yachts as defined in the Code.

The AMSA determines whether a yacht is used for commercial purposes.

During the 2012 Monaco Yacht Show, the UK Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA) launched the new “Large Yacht Code”, or LY3. The LY3 has been developed to keep up with developments in the industry and amendments which have subsequently taken place with the international conventions for which the codes provide an alternative means of achieving compliance, more suited to these particular types of vessels. The LY3 is generally used as the quality standard and safety regulation globally. The LY1 of 1998 was superseded

by LY2 in 2004; but the LY2 remains effective. The MCA Codes are used as the basis for flying the Red Ensign flags on yachts, which shows that the highest safety and quality standards have been fully met.

Many superyachts in the world fly the Red Ensign to signify strict compliance with the MCA Codes.

These regulations are only some of the sets of codes and rules that apply to large yachts or superyachts.

Different countries and different international bodies have specific rules that apply within their jurisdictions.

HOW SUPER IS THE PRICE Reports show that “eight out of the ten most expensive luxury acquisitions of all time fall in the superyacht category”. It seems that superyachts are at the top of the mega-rich shopping list. The price tag is obviously not an issue with the world’s billionaires. But how much do these large pleasure yachts really cost?

Experts claim that the smallest yacht built to spec would be around $10M. Any additional customisation is “only limited by physics”, if one has access to the required funds. The most expensive superyacht to date is the 180m Azzam, owned by Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the United Arab Emirates. Azzam purportedly cost at least $800M to build, with its own missile defense system and personal submarine.

The industry has pegged 10% of the build price as the cost of maintaining a superyacht every year. At $800M build cost, Azzam must spend at least $80M just to keep it running every year. Maintenance services, fuel expenses, crew, and berthing are just among the major expenses.

The unique features of superyachts add to the “power” that large luxury yachts provide its owners – and obviously add to the price. But then again, the MAY - AUG 2017

The 77 metre SILVERFAST is the most advanced ecofuel-efficient vessel in the Silver Yacht Series.

Built in Perth, Western Australia and launched in April 2015. The Superyacht is the world’s largest and fastest aluminium motor yacht, travelling from Australia to Europe in 21 days with one fuel stop.

price does not matter. The more special features there are, and the more unique (or more eccentric), the more appealing it is to those with unlimited funds.

A recording studio, a submarine, helipads, infinity pools, on-board waterfalls, a missile defense system – you are only limited by your imagination.

Published reports provide many claims on the growing number of superyachts being built and sold, and on the price ranges. Some, if not all, present exaggerated numbers that are based on what they refer to as the global order book, and not the actual global fleet of superyachts. It has been claimed that there were 370 superyachts sold in 2016, with a total of €3.37B in asking prices. The largest one sold was purported to be the Project Grande 98, a Lurssen motor yacht.

There are currently 760 new projects in the pipeline all over the world, according to some reports. The longest one under construction is being built by Lurssen Yachts in Germany, a 146m motor yacht, due for completion in 2018. In Australia, there are currently three projects underway. Echo Yachts is building two motor yachts, a 46m shadow vessel and an 84m luxury trimaran, to be completed in 2017 and 2018, respectively. Silver Yachts is building Silverloft, an 83m motor yacht, due to be completed this year.

NOT JUST FOR PLEASURE Despite the notoriety of the world’s superyacht owners as being “tax evaders” or holding the rowdiest of parties offshore, some superyachts serve more meaningful purposes.

Paul Allen’s Octopus, a 126m yacht Octopus, with a staff of 60, 41 suites, two submarines, and a weekly cost of $384,000, has been used for a variety of rescue and research operations. It is equipped with a submarine and a remotely operated underwater vehicle (ROV). It has assisted in a hunt for an American pilot and two officers whose plane disappeared off Palau. It has been loaned to scientists to study the BOATGOLDCOAST.COM. AU

coelacanth, a "living fossil", that was once believed to be extinct. In March 2015, the Allen-led research team aboard the yacht successfully found the remains of the largest battleship ever constructed - a Japanese WW2 vessel, which was sunk off the coast of the Philippines. Allen, after leaving the frontline of Microsoft, became an outspoken environmental campaigner and philanthropist.

Billionaire superyacht couple, Christopher and Regina Catrambone, bought a 1973 40m steel-hulled boat and repaired it for a total of US$5.2M, specifically for search and rescue of migrants, operated by Migrant Offshore Aid Station (MOAS). In August 2014, the Phoenix sailed for its first mission, heading for waters close to Libya. The MOAS was running on monthly operating costs of up to €600,000. The couple had to purchase two rigid-hulled inflatable speedboats with twin 70-horsepower engines used to ferry migrants to the Phoenix. They also hired an experienced search and rescue crew as well as leasing two helicopter drones and their operators.

In 2015, when a cyclone hit Vanuatu, the 73m Dragonfly, which was anchored off Pohnpei (an island in Micronesia) at that time, became a rapid response emergency relief vessel. Skipper Mike Gregory contacted Vanuatu’s National Disaster Management Office and explained what they could do for the hardest-hit area. In one report, Gregory said, “We saw and treated over 250 casualties. We arranged and facilitated three medical evacuations by helicopter, cleared numerous helicopter-landing zones and access roads, and delivered and built shelter in several villages." The owner of Dragonfly covered all the expenses.

Other superyachts have become humanitarian vessels way back in 2006 through Yacht Aid Global (YAG), a US charity set up by Mark Drewelow to mobilise superyachts that are already in the disaster areas. The YAG motto is “to change the world without changing course”, with one of their objectives being

SUPERYACHT HUB REQUIREMENTS Considering the requirements of a superyacht, berthing facilities that have addressed these effectively produce attractive transiting or homeport destinations. In the recent conference, Future of Superyachts, speaker Gino Cutajar from Malta, highlighted attributes of a superyacht hub. He listed the following: • Having the right legislation is a prerequisite (tax incentives; competitive charter tax legislation) • Good telecommunications and international air connectivity • Minor repair and complete refit facilities • Well-stocked chandleries, with access to fast supply and delivery of specialised spare parts • Good training facilities • Other academic facilities offering educational courses that could also be beneficial to the crew • State-of-the-art hospitals and private clinics • Lifestyle (warm hospitality; an engaging local culture and heritage; a relaxed and safe environment; chic boutiques, theatre, smart bars, clubs and casinos; hip and classy restaurants; international and boutique hotels, spas) • Diverse sports facilities • Private jet park with a repair and maintenance facility • Attractive cruising grounds for two-day and week-long journeys For further reference: Gold Coast as ‘point of entry’, HoR Question 874, Parliamentary Debates (15.9.9).

Bringing superyachts into Australia, www.border.gov.au.

Superyacht Australia, www.superyacht-australia.com.

UK Maritime and Coast Guard Agency (MCA), www.dft.gov.uk/mca.

UK Passenger Yacht Code (2014), for yachts carrying 13-36 passengers.

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BOAT GUIDE FEATURE

The Delta 88 Carbon Sport Yacht is built completely of carbon fiber, making it lightweight and fuel efficient. Three Volvo IPS 1200s power the 80ft hull to a spritely 39-knot top speed.

to streamline the process of aid without disrupting the yacht’s schedule. Superyachts, such as the 45m ketch Timoneer, Richard Branson’s 32m catamaran Necker Belle, and other expedition yachts have been mobilised through YAG. ECONOMIC BENEFIT TO A LOCAL DESTINATION With a growing mega-rich market, it is clear that the superyacht industry will continue to see some significant positive advancement.

After all, the increasing number of digits for superyacht prices, as well as their sizes, seems to be enough motivation for the ultra rich to continue investing in them. In the 2016 article The Superyacht Industry Is Poised For Growth, Forbes contributor Doug Goulan wrote, “There are over 200,000 Ultra High Net Worth (UHNW) households, meaning there is a large opportunity for the industry to see strong growth in the coming years if it can tempt more of the super rich to give the yachting lifestyle a try.”

While we have been enthralled by the blitz and bling of the superyacht world, an aspect of the industry that does not get as much media coverage is how a superyacht contributes to the economy of a destination, and how it translates into jobs. As we begin to see dizzying numbers of how much it costs to build and maintain a superyacht, we can perhaps divert our attention to how these translate into economic benefits.

To illustrate, in a recent economic impact study on the superyacht industry in Australia, released in April 2017, it reported the economic benefits of superyachts to the Australian economy.

These include: • Local jobs - 14,500 full time equivalent (FTE) jobs, paying $1.2 billion in wages and salaries (2016) • Tourism - near $190 million annually for the local tourism market • Luxury goods and services – foreign guests and crew spend an estimate of $15,000 to $25,000 per day on land in Australia (in the days before and after their cruise), including an average $7,500 for luxury goods and services (jewellery, clothes, food, drinks) • Local maintenance and construction of superyachts - $400 million in gross product (2016) 14

In Australia, superyacht crew training is also an emerging industry, providing crew around the world in growing numbers. (This important subindustry requires a separate discussion.)

Australia, and the Gold Coast in particular, tick most of the requirements for being a superyacht destination, but there is still much room to improve on significant aspects to fully enjoy the benefits of superyacht visitations. In an interview with Nick Nichols in the article Rising Tide for Gold Coast Marine Industry (2015), MaryAnne Edwards, the CEO of Australian International Marine Export Group (AIMEX) & Superyacht Australia, said, “Australia has an excellent reputation in superyacht refits with our expertise, facilities, infrastructure and the quality of our workmanship.

We are renowned for getting the job done to specs, on time and to budget, which is something our Asian counterparts struggle with. xxx There is one key barrier to this growth, and that is the fact that foreign-flagged vessels are not able to easily charter in Australia.” AIMEX is the peak body representing the Australian marine export and superyacht industries.

There remain unanswered questions and unresolved issues when it comes to Australia’s superyacht industry. Discussions have been many and have been published. There have been significant efforts to encourage the growth of the industry, and these have been supported by the government. For instance, the Queensland government helped fund a study, ‘Economic Impact of the Superyacht Sector on the Australian Economy’, which was completed by the Superyacht Australia in April this year. The study reports that the sector directly supports more than 1,100 jobs and directly contributes $103.7 million to the Cairns and Whitsundays Gross Regional Product, according to a Queensland media statement.

Beyond superfluity of the seemingly infinite money being invested in superyachts, megayachts and gigayachts around the world today, we also see significant value in these rich people’s “luxury toys”. Aside from the growing economic future for the industry and for local economies, there is also an increasing importance of superyachts in providing aid in offshore humanitarian events, in delivering basic goods and services to the more remote islands of the world, and in assisting research for the betterment of humanity.

AUSTRALIA AND THE GOLD COAST • There are around 65 superyachts cruising in Australia currently reported, accounting for around 1.5% of the number of superyachts globally. From this number, more than half of them visit the Gold Coast on the way through their east coast travels. Southport Yacht Club reports that it accommodated 10 superyachts in the last year, seven Australian-registered, and two foreign-flagged vessels (Cayman and Marshall Islands, respectively).

• The average stay of superyachts on the Gold Coast is around a month. But superyachts have stayed from a period of one week and some have stayed for up to 12 months.

• There is a wide range of services involved for superyachts. Some of these are: marina berthing, fuel bunkering, refit and repair services, provisions for guests and crew, food and beverage supplies, homewares and new furnishing, transportation (including helicopters and private planes), among many others.

• “A superyacht can spend up to $20,000 per day on charter supplies, and guest and crew experiences. Tourism is a major benefactor of a superyacht visit,” according to Cameron Bray, managing director Northrop & Johnson Australia.

• On average, a 50m yacht will employ 12-15 staff. In general, depending on size, it can range from three to 20 crew. “There will be at least one captain, one engineer, one or two hostesses, a chef (although a hostess can also be the chef),” according to Keryn Spriggs of the Boutique Boat Company.

• The Gold Coast is currently able to host at least 30 superyachts. The Gold Coast City Marina publishes that they can accommodate 24 superyachts, while the Southport Yacht Club reports they can accommodate seven, at any one time.

• As part of the continuing efforts to showcase the superyacht businesses in Australia, members of the Australian International Marine Export Group (AIMEX) will be exhibiting at the Superyacht and Marine Export Alley at the Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show 2017. The exhibit will be held after the Australian Superyacht and Marine Export (ASMEX) Conference, which will feature high profile national and international guest speakers who will address this year’s conference theme ‘Staying relevant in today’s global business environment’.

MAY - AUG 2017

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MAY - AUG 2017

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BOAT GOLD COAST

GCMarine: A fresh and new approach G

CMarine offers a fresh and new approach to the marine industry, run by a highly motivated team of marine industry professionals.

Director Matthew Browning has years of marine and construction experience, as well as a passion for project management and innovative design. “Our business is a diverse company, focusing on customer relationships, communication, and high-quality finishes,” declares Matthew.

GCMarine has the capability and experience to construct floating marine structures and deliver high-quality aluminium products for marine berthing applications. The company has carried out projects all over Australia in both commercial and residential sectors.

GCMarine offers a variety of services to the marine industry including, but not limited to, concept and planning, design, engineering and project management. The company’s experienced tradesmen are qualified in all aspects of aluminium fabrication.

BOATGOLDCOAST.COM. AU

GCMarine Residential and Commercial Pontoons GCMarine offer a range of pontoon solutions for domestic and commercial projects, with a variety of options and accessories available to suit different locations. They can recommend the right choice for your property.

GCMarine pontoons are a heavy-duty pontoons constructed using 50MPA concrete deck with internal steel reinforcement rods for maximum strength. For the flotation component, a foam void is used, with a maximum of 7% absorption rate with a high strength HDPE liner to eliminate any marine life entering the void.

The pontoon is then topped off with first-grade marine carpet. Conduits are also provided to the full perimeter of GCMarine pontoons for power and water connection.

Pontoon Features • 50MPA Concrete • 125mm Concrete deck • Aluminum whaler 3mm thick • Low absorption foam void 7% or less • High strength HDPE liner • 316 stainless steel • Perimeter beams for additional strength • First-grade marine carpet, UV-stabilized • Full perimeter conduit • Mooring cleats • Accessories available • Council approvals • Engineered drawings • CAD designed drawings for customer approval • Exceeds Australian standards • 3 years manufacturer’s warranty

GCMarine offer Pontoon Anchor Points Piles and Pontoon Accessories - Spun Concrete Piles, Steel Piles with Black Sleeves, In-situ Piles, Struts, Cable, Dry Berth, Underwater lighting for your pontoon, Customised seats, Sinks Cabinets and bait boxes.

GCMarine Floating Office Suite GCMarine developed the Floating Office Suite to maximize space in a marine environment. The Floating Office Suite provides the ideal space to run a business downstairs and enjoy the marine view from the upstairs space. As the Floating Office Suites are 100% customizable with colour and branding, external finishes, choice of structure, floor size to suit any requirement, they appeal to a large range of clientele, from large multi-national companies, to marine research facilities, even residential pontoon owners looking to extend their entertainment space in their backyard. The Floating Office Suite is manufactured on the Gold Coast at the Gold Coast City Marina.

For more information about GCMarine www.gcmarine.com.au or call (07) 5597 5967.

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BOAT GOLD COAST

ATTRACTS SUPERYACHT

REFURBISHMENTS

o odline Trim specialises in work from G commercial-grade vessels to the most luxurious private yachts. Managing Director Clint Weber says,

“We have a diverse team always willing to adapt and implement new styles and designs, as well as traditional style works where required. We offer a complete interior and exterior service, which is virtually unlimited in its scope. Our services are a one-stopshop – upholstery, covers, canopies, shade sails, carpet, flooring roof and wall coverings, mattresses – and our specialty is custom-made clears.”

Servicing superyachts all over Australia, Goodline Trim has been operating for over 40 years, producing first-class timeless marine interiors, products and services. In the last two years, Goodline Trim has

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completed works on 15 superyachts. The team of highly trained tradesmen are always developing and growing new techniques, and providing flawless design, value for money and outstanding service without compromise to quality. “In some cases, we are sending our staff to vessels in different parts of the country, rather than having the yacht come to us, which is a very convenient and economical service to the vessels owners,” explains Clint.

The team at Goodline Trim were recently involved in a large-scale re-fit to SY Southern Cloud, a 131.23ft/40m sail yacht, which was originally built in 1990 by Fanoe Yacht Vaerft. “The yacht is used as a charter, and its owners wanted to give the vessel a fresh new look by replacing and upgrading many aspects of the original design,” relates Clint.

“Our work on SY Southern Cloud entailed design and delivery of industry leading workmanship and products, manufactured from only the highest of quality materials.”

The list of works on the vessel undertaken by Goodline Trim includes: cockpit canopy and clears, custom made upholstery, carpet protection runners, custom leather writing desk pads, vinyl plank flooring, custom storage bags, heavy duty fender hooks, tender upholstery and canopies, helm seating, tender chaps, screen covers, and custom tender covers.

“We are most proud of our canopies and clears, which we installed, and the upholstery upgrades, which all took a great deal of design thought to overcome many perceived technical challenges,” Clint states. “There is good demand for quality work in the marine industry. We have ongoing projects including new builds and refit work for clients, such as Norman R Wrights and Sons, Assegai Marine, Rivergate Marina, and a multitude of private clients always looking for the best for their vessels.”

To see a complete list of services available at Goodline Trim, visit www.goodlinetrim.com.au or call the office to speak with a product expert on 07 3245 2755.

MAY - AUG 2017

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MAY - AUG 2017

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ARTISTS IMPRESSION – INDICATIVE ONLY.

NORTH-FACING WATERFRONT APARTMENTS, NOW SELLING

E N Q U I R E T O D AY S U N L A N D G R O U P. C O M . A U / B O AT 1300 400 905

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MAY - AUG 2017

N E W R E TA I L E R S O P E N A S T H E T R A N S F O R M AT I O N O F R O YA L P I N E S M A R I N A A D V A N C E S A bustling Gold Coast landmark of the 1980s and 1990s, the Royal Pines Marina has commenced a major transformation to become a vibrant new waterfront residential, retail and leisure destination.

The twin residential buildings of Marina Concourse comprise a mix of two-bedroom, two-bedroom plus study, three-bedroom and three-bedroom plus media residences, and penthouse apartments on level six.

Developer Sunland Group has commenced construction of Marina Concourse, which will feature twin low-rise apartment buildings overlooking the marina, new retail and dining amenity, expansive landscaped gardens, a swim school, design school, and Sunland Group’s Gold Coast offices.

Open plan design, high ceilings and full-height windows allow access to stunning views from every angle. Ground floor apartments feature large terraces with the same timber detailing incorporated into the fences and arbours, a signature Sunland design feature, which is interwoven throughout the development.

The precinct will also provide a new boat ramp to the Nerang River and Sunland is currently investigating the potential for a future marina development.

A pool and adjacent pavilion, privately nestled between Marina Concourse and the Nerang River, are reserved for the pleasure of residents. Prices start from $525,000.

Only a short walk to Metricon Stadium and several major Commonwealth Games precincts, the $82 million development is anticipated to be completed in early 2018 before the Games commence.

Marina Concourse is the final development within Sunland’s 19-hectare master plan at The Concourse, where the group has delivered six unique residential enclaves over the past eight years.

Sunland Group Managing Director, Sahba Abedian, said construction is well underway on the low-rise apartment buildings, which will feature 110 luxurious apartments and penthouses, the majority with north facing views over the waterfront. “Our vision for Marina Concourse is to create a vibrant, connected waterfront community, which offers unique lifestyle amenities to residents of Royal Pines and those in Benowa, Ashmore, and surrounding areas,” he said.

Every aspect of The Concourse is enhanced by exquisite greenery, from the soaring colonnade of trees along the entry to the estate, to the meticulous perfection of the diamond-shaped garden beds surrounding the marina.

“The majority of apartments are north-east facing overlooking water and feature a mix of two-bedroom, two-bedroom plus study, three-bedroom and three-bedroom plus media residences, including the penthouse residences.”

Mr Abedian revealed, “At the marina level, a collection of dining, retail and recreation spaces will be created for the enjoyment of residents and the community, with direct access to the waterfront. Late last year we were delighted to welcome Espresso Puro café, Superfish Swim School, and Century 21 Central Gold Coast to Marina Concourse, which are all now open for business. Sunland has also opened our newly-expanded Gold Coast offices within the precinct. Future tenants will include a selection of food and boutique retail at the ground level of the residential buildings.”

Following the success of the luxury Abian tower in the Brisbane CBD and the recent sell-out of both Magnoli Residences and The Lakes Residences on the Gold Coast, Mr Abedian said the Group’s portfolio is designed specifically for the owner-occupier market. “In the past few years we have seen the resurgence of the owner-occupier market come to the fore and our portfolio is focused primarily on the high quality craftmanship and locations sought by this segment,” he said.

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As the second residential tower development within the prestigious Royal Pines community, Marina Concourse draws its inspiration from the multi award-winning Marina Residences, located across the waterfront.

“Marina Residences was completed in 2014 and has won seven industry awards, including the National Apartment Complex of the Year Award at the 2016 HIACSR Australian Housing Awards,” he said. “We are seeking to continue this design excellence with Marina Concourse.”

The Royal Pines Marina is superbly positioned only 15 minutes from the Gold Coast’s spectacular surf beaches and leisure precincts. The championship golf course at the neighbouring Royal Pines Resort is renowned as the region’s only 27-hole composite course, permanent home of the ANZ Ladies Masters and other notable tournaments.

Sunland’s other developments in south-east Queensland include The Heights Residences, located within The Heights master-planned parkland community in Pimpama; Shea Residences in St Lucia, Brisbane; and The Terraces, located 10 minutes south of Noosa in Peregian Springs.

The Marina Concourse sales suite is located onsite at Ross Street, Benowa, and is open daily from 10am to 4pm. For more information, phone 1300 400 905 or visit www.sunlandgroup.com.au.

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LIVING AT 33 FEET NEVER FELT

LARGER

VISIT OU

R NE W SHOWRO OM AT THE BOA T WORKS COOMER A

enjoy the

feel the

combine functionality with

LIGHT

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DESIGN

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eyachts | NSW: 02 9979 6612 | VIC: 1300 734 144 | QLD: 07 3004 7604 Mail: 24 boats@eyachts.com.au | Web: www.eyachtssealine.com

www.sealine.com MAY - AUG 2017

BOAT GOLD COAST

The world’s first and only true hybrid yacht New generation Greenline is coming to Australian waters T

he team at eyachts are excited to announce that they will be the exclusive distributors for Greenline Hybrid yachts for Australia. The new Greenline 36 and Greenline 48 will be featured at the eyachts exhibition at the Sydney International Boat Show in August this year.

Japec Jakopin, whose designs (over 80 of them) have gained Boat of the Year, Design, and Environmental awards from around the world. SVP Yachts develop and manufacture all new models, and continue to lead the path for the future of modern boating.

furnishing, give a luxurious and modern feel. These are highly specced boats featuring twin electric hatches, bow thruster, full fridge/freezer, induction stove, air con, solar pack, microwave, and more, as part of the standard specs.

Greenline, ‘The Hybrid’ yacht, is environmentally friendly boating at its finest, with a focus on comfort, luxury and efficiency, while reducing its impact on the environment by using up to four times less fossil fuel than a planing powerboat in similar conditions. Not only does this innovative boat reduce fuel consumption, it also allows efficient electric propulsion using power supplied by the battery and solar power.

The contemporary yet classic exterior The Greenline range has a distinctive head-turning appearance with a unique, modern concept yet classic retro design. The combination of contemporary design and materials and classic, beautiful woods gives it a great look. Safety features include electric fold-down transom for safe and easy access when boarding at marinas and after swimming, opening driver’s side door, and the safe easy walk around access up to the bow.

The hybrid electric engines and driving performance The Greenline is now onto the third generation hybrid electric engine, with Volvo and Yanmar engines as the new standard. New top speed for Greenline is 26 knots on the new GL36 with a single shaft drive Yanmar engine. It covers the speed range from zero to over double displacement speed – up to15 knots in case of a 10-metre waterline, and up to 20 knots in case of a 12-metre waterline.

Peter Hrones, managing director of eyachts, says, “I didn’t expect to enjoy the Greenline 36 as much as I did. The new hull design is so efficient that we powered effortlessly through rough waters. The interior was spacious, light and highly specced. The contemporary trawler-style exterior with a classic edge turned heads wherever we went.”

The team at eyachts believe that hybrid yachts are the way of the future, and that Greenline is leading the way.

The hybrid motorcar market has taken hold across the world with Toyota chairman, Takeshi Uchiyamada, predicting that one in five motor vehicles sold around the world will be powered by a hybrid powertrain in 2020.

With mainstream motorcar consumers wanting luxury, performance and comfort but also now considering their environmental impact in their choice, it was only a matter of time before this philosophy transferred into boating.

Famous design and world-class build Greenline is European designed and built by people who know more about volume boat manufacturing than any body else in the world. It is designed by famous J&J Design studio created in 1983 by Jernej and BOATGOLDCOAST.COM. AU

The innovative hull design The revolutionary super displacement hull (protected) with twin stabilisers is the secret behind Greenline Hybrid’s ability to use less fuel, generate lower CO2 emissions, and produce less wake. It has unmatched anti-roll and tracking stability, and offers a comfortable and safe ride in all weather conditions, or when mooring in any wind.

The stylish interior The interior is spacious, versatile and comfortable with easy flow through cockpit, galley and dining area with 360-degree panoramic views. The single level interior is open and light bringing the outside in while also offering plenty of shade for the hot Australian climate, as well as eyebrow covering of the windows and windscreen and a fully covered cockpit.

The new interior finish in modern light oakwood or classic teak, plus new leather door handles and

The fuel consumption per nautical mile is less than that of a comparable displacement hull, and as little as one quarter of a semi-displacement, twin-engine planing boat.

Value for Money Smaller Greenlines are classified as Category Ocean B, while Ocean Class Greenlines are classified as Category A. Greenline Hybrid is more cost-effective to buy and use than any comparable boat, thereby offering fuel efficiency savings, incredible value for money, and resale value. They are competitively priced when you consider the high level of standard equipment fitted, so a true drive away price will be offered on all Greenlines from 36 feet and above.

Find further information at www.greenlinehybrid.si/ About eyachts At eyachts, we are passionate about innovative and exciting boat design. Our mission is to bring the latest in cutting-edge boating design to Australian waters. www.eyachts.com.au 25

BOAT ANGLER

DO NOT FEAR

Paul handling a bull shark caught in a local river.

THE SHARKS

with Pau l Bu rt

W

hat is the attraction about sharks? Why do they constantly create media frenzy more ferocious than the feeding frenzy itself? Let me give you an insight into the intriguing world of the shark, a common predator lurking in the depths of nearly every tidal canal, river, creek, estuary, and lake in the area.

South East Queensland and Northern New South Wales are perfect temperate zones that not only attract a wide variety of fish, but also thousands of whaler and bull sharks.

The Gold Coast alone has over five hundred kilometres of canal systems that branch off the rivers and creeks, most consisting of dark murky coloured water. The water that flows throughout the creeks and canals makes it a perfect environment for the fish to live in. In other words, the more canals there are, the more sharks we have.

Large tiger shark caught offshore.

Bull and whaler sharks should not be confused with white pointers and tiger sharks.

The latter two are known man-eaters, whereas the smaller bull and whaler sharks are more opportunistic feeders. These two estuarine-type sharks have poor eyesight and rely heavily on their receptors to pick up the impulses and vibrations in the water. They have this tendency to find fast moving fish, such as trevally, quite quickly, while a slow moving lethargic fish like a mullet has a better chance of swimming by undetected. If we look at this and change it over to a person swimming in a canal splashing about, the sharks instantly think it is a school of fast moving fish thrashing about. Of course being an opportunistic feeder, it is not one to miss out on a quick feed. After the bite, the shark then realises that it is not a fish it has bitten, but something much larger. So, it releases its “prey�, unfortunately leaving a nasty wound.

To decrease the chances of being bitten, there are several keynotes to remember. Do not swim at night, at dawn or at dusk. Do not swim after a heavy rain when the water is discoloured. Do not swim among baitfish or where a lot of fish activity is prevalent. Do not swim in the main river systems on the run-out tide again when the water is dirty, particularly after a flood. Do not swim around people who are fishing and catching fish. The main reason for the above is to eliminate the dark-water fact. Swimming in the middle of the day when the sun is up high on the water is best though if the tide has turned and is running out. You will find the water will discolour quite quickly again, giving the shark the advantage especially during the summer months.

MAP OF WHERE BULL SHARKS ARE IN GOLD COAST WATERS

Sharks are in our canal systems and surrounding waters all year round, but become extremely active during the warmer months of the year mainly during the monsoonal season. They are found from central New South Wales to the top end of Australia and equal latitude along the west coast. The runoff from floodwaters is a perfect time to spot sharks twisting and jumping out of the water, and feeding on fish being washed out around river and bar entrances. At certain times, you can see three or four sharks every few seconds chomping away on the smaller fish being washed out. If you ask any whiting fisherman who regularly dangles a line around the Council Chambers, they will be sure to tell you how much a menace the sharks can be as they nudge the side of your boat, and steal your fish off your line during the night.

By understanding the times when to swim and when not to swim, you can enjoy the beautiful waterways hassle-free. We can all learn to live with the sharks as they have always been here in great numbers and always will be.

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MAY - AUG 2017

BOAT GOLD COAST

BOATGOLDCOAST.COM. AU

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BOAT ANGLER

Drone FISHING

There is a new way to fish that is taking flight on the Gold Coast, and it is nothing like fly fishing. However, you do need to fly your drone to the fish before dropping your hook line and sinker.

ANDY KANCACHIAN chats with local drone enthusiast-turned-drone businessman, BRENDAN ARCHIE, who is at the forefront of this exciting new fishing technique.

Drone fishing utilises a drone with onboard camera, fitted with a remote-controlled release mechanism designed to hold onto the fishing line, until you want to drop it in a specific location. It is ‘your eye in the sky’, as Brendan calls it.

“Drone fishing enables one to target large fish in the previously unattainable ‘far surf zone’ or back gutters,” explains Brendan. “When drone fishing from a boat, you can target your bait/lure out to the pelagic fish without starting the boat or making any noise which might scare the fish away, outsmarting the clever game fish.”

Brendan recalls how he first got into drone fishing. “It all started with me purchasing a basic drone, then discovering that laws prohibited me flying it in my local area. As an unlicensed recreational drone-user living in suburbia, I found it necessary to find legal places to fly it. So flying the drone over remote river systems and surf beaches, or from my boat over the ocean was a logical solution.”

Brendan combined his surf fishing and offshore scuba diving knowledge to dream up the idea of casting way out over the surf. “While regularly scuba diving offshore, I noted that many large fish can be found way beyond casting length when beach fishing. I dreamt of being able to cast just that little further to where the deeper gutters and structures were.”

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The fisher’s eye in the sky

DRONE FISHING So Brendan put on his thinking cap, and went about finding a release mechanism for his drone to fly out his bait and tackle to where the fish were. “I went to my local hobby shops to buy the mechanism, but was unable to find anything suitable. Eventually, I managed to bend some fish hooks, then rig up a remote control servomotor on a separate radio inside a small box, and attach it to my drone. I tried it out and it worked brilliantly.”

Since then, Brendan has established Drone Fishing Pty. Ltd., a company committed to supplying the best-suited equipment that has been designed, tried and tested for drone fishing and the marine industry, including submarine, camera and filming products.

Brendan is a catch-and-release advocate. Although he would rather not say exactly where and how he uses his drone to catch his great hauls, he confirms that he once caught four longtail tuna and three hammerhead sharks, in a day.

In these winter months, May to July, Brendan expects to catch a myriad of species when drone fishing, including mackerel, tuna, jew fish, sharks, flathead, whiting and bream.

“I have found that I rarely use the camera anymore, as you cannot just hang in the air waiting to see a fish. There are other drones that suit spotting the fish better, yet they are not waterproof,” says Brendan.

NO FLY ZONES - In relation to flying in the Gold Coast Control Zone, the main requirement is not to be flying in Controlled Airspace (Gold Coast CTR – SFC-1500FT AMSL) within 3NM of the boundary of the aerodrome.

No permission = No fly. www.casa.gov.au/modelaircraft

Recommended equipment: • Use the Swellpro RTF Splashdrone with a fishing release. The specifications state that a drone can carry 1kg for up to 1 km but with wind drag and slack in the line. Our maximum distance we fly would be 500m. (Also look at the Agua Drone, available in Australia in July.)

• Invest in a decent reel. The best set-up I have found is a Shimano Tekota 800 with 550m of 100lb braid, and be sure to keep it well maintained. Then you can practice how to run the reels out without jamming.

Drone fishing is actually not as easy as it sounds.

Brendan explains, “Drone fishing is far more challenging than regular fishing. Not only are you attempting to hook a fish, you also have to manage your drone’s flight and its batteries.”

Simple tips: • As a safety precaution, when drone fishing from a boat it is best to use a waterproof drone, and take off from the water and land back on the water.

• Turn off all electronics on the boat including GPS, phones, wifi, etc. as these may cause interference.

• Before you consider going fishing, learn to fly your drone by clocking up your flight time to gain experience. Steer clear of bad weather, high winds, storm clouds, high voltage wires and interference from offshore microwave tower.

• Most importantly, do up your propellers firmly as they are not self locking.

• It is best to attempt drone fishing with two people, so that one can handle the rods.

MAY - AUG 2017

BOATGOLDCOAST.COM. AU

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BOAT GOLD COAST

Cast away your worries

Proving that fishing is a totally embracing sport for all members of the family

There is always something to learn

Did you know that the broadbill swordfish has a gland near its eye that secretes special oil that is thought to make them even more slippery through the water? Until about a year ago, no one did! Also, did you know that the oceanic whitetip shark has special sensory structures in its head that act like a natural GPS utilising the earth’s geomagnetic field to locate itself in our vast oceans as it travels around the globe? Bet you didn’t.

So, you can imagine how excited scientist Arnault Gaulthier was when he learned that one of 130 boat fleet participating in the 2017 NSW Game Fishing Association’s (NSWGFA) Interclub tournament was bringing in a sample of that very specific species for him to analyse. Given their expansive migratory patterns, having one specimen to study is almost unheard of. And being taken only a couple of hours before it was brought to the weigh station just made it all that much better.

His own story is almost as interesting as that of the fish he studies. He was born on the French island of Reunion in the Indian Ocean, in between Mauritius and Madagascar, close to the shores of Africa. Arnault is a PhD student from the University of Queensland working on the electro-sensory system of sharks and rays.

GER14250

www.hqhh.de

06/2016

“I have had the chance to work on quite a few exciting sharks over the course of the weekend. The oceanic whitetip shark is one of my favourites, and no one has really ever studied them before,” he states. “Looking at its sensory system is very exciting and to assesses its overall function. It can detect both prey and predators, and communicate with other animals to some extent. Most interestingly, it is also a kind of internal GPS, as some people put it, that the sharks use to navigate through the earth’s geomagnetic field.”

Dr Julian Pepperell, an independent marine biologist and author, is an expert on large pelagic fish, having dedicated 40 years of work in the area. He has been independent for 25 years, and conducts joint research with universities all over the world, supervises PhD students all around the country, and has international projects as well. He also works with the CSIRO, specifically on billfish, tuna, and sharks.

“At the same time as finding out exactly what that gland in swordfish does, we are now also going to see if it also exists in marlin. Overall, however, we now have over 1,000 tissue samples. In addition to being available for specific project work, they have been essential to around 50 studies that have been undertaken all over the globe.

“Conversely, some of the sharks are very slow to grow, which we know from all of the samples, and so they need looking after. All of this material is what is used to determine the sustainability of fishing, both recreationally and commercially,” said Pepperell.

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

30

“There are also records of 65,000 tags, and we now know that black and blue marlin live for up to 20 years. Even at one year old, they are 30kg heavy and 2m long, so they grow very quickly, having hatched from an egg the size of a pinhead. This includes striped marlin. So at four to five years they will be around 130kg. The only reason we have this sort of data is from all the research over the years, greatly assisted by game fishing tournaments.”

Yet, it is not all about the fishing, or the science, either. Dave Bye has been attending the NSWGFA for 46 years now, and remembers when Dr Pepperell first appeared. He’s from the Tahlee Ministries, which is right up the other end of the bay we all know as Port Stephens. He was the one who recognised that there was fish on offer in the early MAY - AUG 2017

BOAT GOLD COAST This proud angler had tagged her first marlin and could not wait to get ashore to have her paperwork processed.

At over 20kg, this mahi-mahi was a delight to see, as too were the smiles from the anglers.

70s, and he saw a way to feed people. At the beginning, both the Ministry and nursing homes benefitted from their collections. But in these litigious times, it is now only their community that reaps the gifts of the sea each year.

In all, five sharks of various species were tagged and released, with three coming ashore. Two of those were ultimately donated to the Ministry, which means it was virtually a 100% usage rate across the board.

All in all the fishing went well, even if the overall numbers were less than in most other years. You certainly would not have known it by talking with the participants, either, for their smiles were as infectious as their love of life in general. They went out, mostly to the continental shelf, in everything from blinding sunshine and millpond like seas, to significant lumps and pouring rain – such was their enthusiasm.

Winners were as diverse as the 130-boat fleet. There were male, female, junior and small fry categories of anglers, and they all seem to appreciate the new four-day format that encompassed one weekend, not two, as per previously. Ultimately, you cannot help thinking that we, the greater community could well have been the biggest winners, given the large crowds that attended the weigh station and all the material that the scientists were able to gather over the event.

So despite the challenges afforded by the weather, 54 marlin (all species) were tagged and released, and just four brought ashore for samples, eating, and also donation to the Ministry. The largest was a 151.9kg blue marlin. There were 22 impressive and fantastically sporting mahi-mahi that were tagged and released, with four of those also coming ashore. A massive 26.1kg male was a delight to see, and for those lucky enough to be at the table later, a complete treat too!

There were 10 shortbill spearfish tagged and released, and no captures. There were also 11 of the fast swimming striped tuna that were tagged, and also a handful brought ashore for the scientists, as per their request. Two of the ultra-quick wahoo were tagged and released, again with none captured. That leaves the sharks. One of course was the long-ranging oceanic white tip that helped out both the scientists and the Ministry in the end. The largest fish weighed for the tournament was the 256.1kg tiger shark.

BOATGOLDCOAST.COM. AU

Pantaenius Sail and Motor Yacht Insurance is proud to be back for its second year as a major sponsor of this terrific event. Not only do all the crews have a wonderful time out at sea, the fact that so much is learned, the vast majority of fish are tagged and returned to the sea. That the Tahlee Ministries processes much of the catch for either food or fertiliser just shows how sustainable and important all the activities are. Of course, any event needs volunteers and the Interclub relies on so many. Well done to them for making it all happen so smoothly.

If you have a game boat from trailable to large sportsfisher, aluminium plate or fibreglass, then you might want to investigate the only true, marine-originated, agreed value insurance policy from 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, game boats to racing yachts select the all-risk policy that only Pantaenius can provide you with.

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BOAT GOLD COAST needed to allow for the changes in engine design. While the engines were out, the batteries were repositioned and new hot water service was fitted, which is easy to access while the engines are out. After all, by the time the new engine drives and joystick steering were fitted, things were going to be tight.

THE M360 PROJECT:

MORE ENGINE POWER AND BERTHING MADE EASIER

Working closely with the factory technicians from the Mercury head office, the My Marine team needed to allow for a sensible cost effective way to accommodate the drastically increased air intake consumption required to successfully run the new diesel packages. Stainlesssteel louvered Dorade boxes were added to the stern corners of the vessel. The myriad of factory wiring looms, nine separate electronic control modules, and NSS12 Simrad Mercury-compatible interfaces were included for a complete instrumentation package. The joystick and skyhook controls were added before the final engine genset and drive installation occurred.

Once the M360 was relaunched, there was several full days of joystick programming as each individual boat has its own personality and this needs to be factored into the programming of the joystick.

etrol to diesel – when is it a viable option? Are you overcapitalising your investment? How do you judge what is good value and what is a wasted effort? When should I consider such an enormous transformation?

P

craft for when the new girl was up north or down in Sydney Harbour. So the question of how long the boat’s upgrades would be enjoyed for, were satisfied very early in the discussions.

Andrew Weekes of My Marine Service Centre at Gold Coast City Marina (GCCM) asked Christopher Dan, a well-known Southport Yacht Club personality, when the latter was pondering his boating future. While excited about the idea of upgrading Christopher’s beautifully presented Riviera M360, both men needed to come to a thorough understanding of the expectations of the end result. After all, it entailed a sizable investment.

Increasing the vessel’s range was a primary consideration. The desired 4.2 turbo diesel Mercruiser (Cummins) packages would, in theory, provide more power (torque) at a far better fuel burn while delivering a greater cruise speed and the benefits of better hole shot.

Firstly, Christopher and his wife, Robyn, were still some two years from receiving their newly ordered boat, and were in the enviable position of wanting to keep their existing boat so as to always have a home-based

32

Using the extensive facilities at GCCM, My Marine Service Centre was commissioned to proceed with the project in late 2016. Engine drives and transom assemblies were removed along with the petrol generator. Fuel tanks were drained and cleaned by Sweep Marine Services. The engine room was stripped of all batteries, wiring and plumbing. Detailed with flow coat, the new engine room

The result?

Wow! Not only a vessel with total berthing control at the touch of the joystick combined with convenience of holding itself in a single position indefinitely (an absolute godsend for planning the tying of fenders and ropes for stress-free docking), but also an amazingly quiet 24knot cruise and a top speed of 34 knots – up from 18-20 and 24, respectively.

While the fuel burn resulted in similar per hour figures, the drastic increase in speed achieved has increased the range to comfortably allow the family to realise its goal and now can easily plan the extended trips up to Moreton Bay and beyond, which is what that they desired.

All in all, it was a very worthwhile and successful project, enabling the family to achieve boating happiness and extending the serviceable life of a very worthwhile vessel for many years to come.

MAY - AUG 2017

BOAT GOLD COAST

A GUIDE TO BOAT G E LCOAT PROTE CTI O N the damage as soon as you can, especially if the damage exposes the fibreglass matting underneath.

A gelcoat that is chalky, old, worn out or scratched can allow moisture to infiltrate the underlying fibreglass, which can result in serious damage. Extensive spider cracking common on older boats is due to aging of the gelcoat. This can often be heard cracking underfoot. In such cases, grinding off the gelcoat for wholesale refinishing is the best approach.

Proper boat gelcoat maintenance measures will increase the durability of this all-important layer, which can last up to two decades. Therefore, one of the foremost aspects of boat maintenance is the protection and proper care for its gelcoat.

WHY PROCTECT THE GELCOAT?

o matter how big, small, old or new the vessel N is, most boat owners desire to maintain the fresh-from-the-showroom look. Detailing a boat on

a regular basis is a sure way to ensure your vessel is not compromised by the elements, and continues to look in pristine condition.

Harbourforce Marine Detailing has been established for over 12 years, and can ensure your vessel is always looking in A1 condition with regular detailing services for both the interior and exterior of your boat.

Detailing your vessel can be a tricky and timeconsuming task, and is sometimes better to leave

HULL

it to a qualified boat maintenance worker who is educated in the correct applications and products.

The gelcoat on your boat is the outer ‘skin’ of the fibreglass hull, and is the very first layer that is sprayed onto the mould before the fibreglass hull is laid. During the construction, the boat builder meticulously prepares the surface of the gelcoat ensuring there is no dust, imperfections or scratches. The gelcoat protects against weakening of the fibreglass laminate from water intrusion. If you do notice any chips, scrapes or gouges in the gelcoat exterior of your boat, it is important to fix

- Gives the boat a shiny wet look - Acts as a protective barrier between the boat’s hull and external forces - Protects against unexpected jetty bumps - Protects against the harsh UV light of the Australian sun - Protects the vessel from wind and dirt TIPS - Use ONLY fibreglass cleaners.

- Compound the gelcoat first before waxing.

- Apply a good gelcoat wax or polymer sealant.

- Ensure you have regular wash-downs.

- Wax protection regime every 4-6 months

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BOATGOLDCOAST.COM. AU

33

BOAT ANGLER

TACKLE’N

BIG FISH

T

he Gold Coast has a climate few other locations can match. With close proximity to freshwater, estuary, and offshore fishing options, the region provides - at times - exceptional fishing. So, it is no surprise that tackle shops are quite popular in the city, and are very reliable sources of technical and local knowledge.

Kevin of Gold Coast Fishing Tackle is one of the city’s well-regarded tackle shop owners. In the store, Kevin offers his clients practical advice based on his own fishing experiences. He is an extremely knowledgeable local fisherman and shares with us tips for buying the right equipment, what to expect in the coming months of May to July, and why he enjoys chasing his favourite target, the marlin.

Why do you fish?

One of my motivations to go out fishing is to put into practice what I preach, and of course have a good time.

The most satisfying feeling is when customers who are new to fishing take my advice and experience success.

Their enthusiasm is definitely contagious to all.

What is the most important consideration in buying fishing gear?

The biggest mistake fishers make when they buy fishing equipment is to simply buy on price without the right advice. Avoid buying anything online unless you are sure the product is capable of doing the job required. Successful fishers utilize proven techniques, so always buy fishing tackle from genuine fishing tackle stores with staff that fish in the area. These people will actually help you catch more fish and help you avoid buying the wrong equipment, which ultimately saves you time and money.

What fish do you expect to catch during the months of May to July?

Blue marlin, yellowfin tuna and snapper. The snapper numbers rapidly increase on the close inshore reef systems from Tweed Heads to the top of Moreton Island. As the water temperature drops and the current slows, the larger fish move in close to feast on squid and baitfish. The wider offshore grounds start around the 140-metre mark and some of the coast’s largest billfish have been caught here. At other times the fish can be anywhere out to a 1,000 metres plus. Tuna schools are commonly seen leaping and crashing through bait schools around the deeper seamount areas.

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Interview with Kevin Ballantine

Equipment to use to catch these fish For big yellowfin tuna and marlin, an 80lb line will cover most encounters. Some larger vessels fish only 130lb tackle in the hope of having a chance to land that once-in-a-lifetime monster. Shimano Tiagra game reels rule this environment and their strength and quality are unmatched. T-curve rods and the new Venom rods are my favourites. For the snapper, 8000size Baitrunners matched to a 7’ venom is a light but powerful combination.

Best strategy and technique for these species Without a doubt, floating lightly weighted bait down a berley trail is a deadly method for catching snapper of all sizes. For marlin and tuna, trolling skirted lures is by far the most productive method where covering ground is paramount to locating areas that might hold fish.

Favourite target It is marlin, for the pure adrenaline rush. Nothing really compares with these fish. They will take a bait barely metres from the transom. They will crash tackle lures from any part of your spread. They are certainly not intimidated by the size of your boat however invincible you think you are. With their availability throughout most of the year, you can realistically chase them and expect results due to the different species (black, blue, and striped) overlapping from spring through to the start of winter.

Most productive areas for marlin Juvenile black marlin are essentially an inshore species, hugging the coast as they migrate south.

Areas that consistently hold bait all year provide the action and these areas are well within the range for small trailer craft.

Striped marlin are the least prolific of our trio, but can turn up in depths anywhere from fifty to a thousand metres and beyond. This species is the only commercially targeted billfish off the coast that pits recreational against pro anglers, but there is minimal conflict.

Blue marlin, like all apex predators go where the food is. If food is in the shallow, that is where blue marlin will be. But this species is normally associated with over the continental shelf deep canyon studded cobalt water. Rough conditions tend to switch these guys on more. With specimens over 800 lbs having been

Striped marlin, caught 60metres off Nth Stradbroke Is.

landed and plenty of larger ones that got away, there is plenty of incentive to keep trying.

Tip on purchasing equipment for marlin Absolutely buy the best you can afford. These fish grow big and gear failure problems can really escalate the situation to a dangerous level. Broken rods and seized reels are common issues with gear not designed for the job.

Best strategy and technique for marlin First and foremost is to go where these fish normally frequent. Then, run a spread of appropriate sized lures in a variety colours that have proven successful in the past try. Be in an area that looks fishy around tide changes. This could mean a bait school, a water temperature variation, or just a nice current line.

Advice on choosing a fishing boat When buying a boat, work out what sort of fishing you want to do. If the boat is required to be an all-rounder, then it should be just that - great for estuary, bay, the Broadwater and offshore in good conditions. Your available budget obviously will determine how many extra accessories you can install. Keep safety foremost by knowing the limits and capabilities of your boat in various conditions.

MAY - AUG 2017

BOAT GOLD COAST now joining one another for a fishing adventure and finding great enjoyment and success doing so. Here in South East Queensland, an increasing numbers of PWC’s are being used for fishing on the Broadwater, Moreton Bay, out at sea, and on the rivers and canals. You can find groups online or by asking your local PWC and fishing tackle agents.

Recommended PWC for Fishing - A suitable 3-seater machine fitted with a tried and tested N/A 4 stroke motor will give you the best overall ride quality, storage space, reliability and running costs, Fortunately, Yamaha have all aspects covered with their VX and FX range of PWC and have proven to be the fishing craft of choice worldwide. The PWC can then be fitted with rod holders, esky and a GPS/Fish finder of personal preference .

Ideally, the PWC should be coupled with a trailer that can be launched and retrieved in tidal areas on sand that is fitted with an appropriate-size winch and pivoting rollers.

ON PERSONAL WATER CRAFT

F

o r a novice fisher, there are many reason why gearing your PWC to go fishing is a good idea. The practical reasons are that a PWC requires no crew, launching is much easier than a boat, and the clean-up time is shorter. Once you have equipped your PWC and gained experience, PWC fishing becomes very efficient, so much so that if you have an hour free in your day, you can always go fishing. Further, the blistering speed at which the PWC can travel dramatically reduces travel time to fishing locations with more time to fish.

For the experienced fisher, the PWC offers access to waterways where many boats cannot easily go. Out on the PWC, you are very close to the waterline and open to nature. When you do hook a fish, your bent rod tip will most likely be beneath the water’s surface making for some exciting action. While lending itself to some great photo opportunities, being so close to water can create some intimidating situations when you land a serious-size fish.

BOATGOLDCOAST.COM. AU

Shoreline Tubby Fishing Pods - With more and more anglers using a personal watercraft as a versatile alternative to the traditional fishing boat, the Shoreline Tubby should be a serious consideration. Constructed with reinforced fibreglass, the Shoreline Tubbys are bolt-on pods that sit on either side of the watercraft, giving the PWC a new lease in stability and extra storage space. These Tubbys transform a PWC into a more fishing-focused watercraft and have proved popular among fishermen in Australia.

There are many factors that make a PWC a successful fishing craft. The turbulence and noise in the water while trawling is minimal because the propeller, which is in a housing (impeller), and the exhaust are only a foot below the water’s surface. With an outboard motor, the propeller and exhaust are at least a metre below the water’s surface.

Additionally, a PWC is very easy to manoeuvre in and out of the surf which makes fishing offshore a pleasure. Technically, once a large fish has been hooked, retrieval is made easy. Being light in the water, the PWC is pulled around by the fish while reeling in, and eventually the fish and craft meet half way. Once the fish is close, there is no need to worry about your line getting caught on props or outboard motor “legs”.

Most riders are looking to join like-minded people for PWC social events. Beyond PWC trekking together, riders are

35

BOAT GOLD COAST

Get “on board” and help shape the future of our waterways ith five rivers, 260km of navigable waterways and W more than 750 hectares of lakes and dams to manage, the Gold Coast Waterways Authority plays a vital

Issues raised by community members have covered a range of topics including: • concerns about speed and behaviour • access to channels throughout the Gold Coast • increase in buoy mooring areas • upgrades to boating facilities • management of trust land including Doug Jennings Park.

role in planning, managing and protecting the Gold Coast’s iconic waterways.

And with boating registrations in the region growing at more than twice the State-wide growth rate, the responsibility for ensuring the Gold Coast’s waterways remain something that residents can use, understand, protect, respect, enhance and enjoy is crucial.

The Gold Coast Waterways Authority (GCWA) was established by the Queensland Government in 2012 to take responsibility for planning, managing and protecting this precious asset for present and future generations of Queenslanders.

According to the GCWA Chairman, Mara Bún, the role of the community in planning for the waterways now and into the future is vital.

The seven-member Board of the GCWA has backed this commitment by meeting with more than 1000 residents over the past 12 months to seek their views.

Meet The Board sessions have been held at the Southport Yacht Club, The Boardwalk Tavern, Currumbin RSL, Hollywell Yacht Club, Burleigh Golf Club and Burleigh SLSC Mowbray Park.

“One of the hallmarks of GCWA is that we set priorities locally. Members of the Board are all Gold Coast residents with strong breadth and depth of knowledge on waterways issues,” Ms Bún said. “We’ve talked with everyone from boaties to divers, waterskiers to jetskiers, residents and visitors to shape our priorities.”

Ms Bún encouraged all Gold Coast community members to “get on board” and attend one of the upcoming Meet The Board sessions.

“We move these sessions around the Gold Coast so we can meet with a wide cross-section of people and interests,” she said. “At the same time, we actively engage through social media and our website so there are plenty of ways for Gold Coasters to have their say.”

Information on upcoming community consultations can be found by subscribing to GCWA’s e-newsletter, visiting www.gcwa.qld.gov.au, or emailing mail@gcwa.qld.gov.au.

774 hectares of lakes and dams

Sustain. Enhance. Promote. 

CONNECT WITH US:

 |

www.gcwa.qld.gov.au

260km of navigable waterways

5 rivers

113,000 hectares of internationallysignificant, listed wetland area

Australia’s most biologically diverse city, home to 1300 animal and  1700 plant species more than 28,000 recreational 40%  in jetski registrations boats with registrations over the past 4 years forecast to reach 33,000 by 2020 700 commercially registered vessels 2012

Australia’s largest marine precinct generating economic outputs worth $407 million with a flow-on to the Qld economy of $4446 million & 5178 jobs for Queenslanders 600,000+ residents, forecast to double to 1 million by 2050

12 million visitors each year

Every way. Every day. Our Gold Coast waterways.

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MAY - AUG 2017

The Marine Auctions Difference

More Online Auctions for Marine Auctions Adrian Seiffert, Director of Marine Auctions, is proud to announce that Marine Auctions will be holding more Online Auctions rather than the Traditional Auctions in the future.

Adrian said Marine Auctions have been doing Online Auctions over the last few years with success rates increasing dramatically. Results being obtained are well in excess of our and our clients’ expectations.

From our past Online Auctions we have received far more bidders per vessel than the traditional auction method. At a recent Online Auction we sold a vessel that had 10 bidders, and it sold at a price well in excess of expectations. Adrian said this was also partly due to our innovative marketing campaigns and our email database of close to 600,000 email addresses.

“Results being obtained are well in excess of our and our clients’ expectations” The Online Auction method of sale increases the exposure of our vendor’s vessel to more interested parties, allowing many more potential buyers to bid in their own time without any pressure, from any location in the world via the internet.

We recently had a bidder that was bidding on a yacht using his iphone while sitting at the bar at his local hotel.

At our recent Online Auction, Marine Auctions offered 13 vessels and had a 60% clearance on Auction Day with buyers coming from various States in Australia and 2 Overseas buyers.

Adrian also said a couple of the vessels that didn’t sell on Auction Day were sold within a few days after the Online Auction.

Adrian said it is becoming clear that Online Boat Auctions are truly the way forward for both seller and buyer, for any type of vessel.

The Online Auction market has experienced a rapid growth in the last decade and many industry analysts believe the Online method of sale will continue to boom. A survey was recently undertaken by Forrester Research, indicating that 93% of B2C consumers prefer buying Online instead of the traditional method.

Marine Auctions has found through experience, that most potential buyers for any type of vessel are keen to consider purchasing a vessel when they believe it’s genuinely for sale. They must invest considerable time and money assessing the suitability of the vessel and from our research we know that most potential buyers are more inclined to do so if the vessel is offered for sale by Public Auction, and especially an Online Auction.

The bidding for the Online Auctions usually runs for 7 days with around a 30 day marketing campaign.

Finally, it is through the Marine Auction’s Online Auction process that buyers’ caution can be overcome. Each bidder not only competes against each other but supports the other’s valuation and thus their best efforts are extracted.

Contact Marine Auctions for more information on their exciting Online Auction system and also to buy and sell vessels.

Marine Auctions opens in South East Asia “William’s vision is to revolutionise the way in which luxury yachts are sold in Asia, through the Marine Online Auction system.”

Singapore

Marine Auctions announces a new representative for South East Asia.

William Schick, based in Singapore, brings with him more than 30 years of Marine Industry experience. William, originally from New Zealand, moved to Singapore more than a decade ago as the Sales Director of a major Yacht Broker. William, with many a grey hair, began to feel tired, due to the hard graft and the long work weeks, but as William said, it went deeper. Something about the traditional way in selling all types of Boats irked him.

William resigned from his high-level post, and decided to join Marine Auctions as their South East Asian representative, promoting the Online Auction method of sale.

William has witnessed a gradual decline in the effectiveness of the traditional Brokerage model and he believes that Marine Online Auctions is truly the way forward. His vision, along with Marine Auction’s established network is set to revolutionise the way in which luxury yachts are sold in Asia.

BOATGOLDCOAST.COM. AU

“The Marine Online Auction system has the ability to reach thousands of potential bidders and shrink the sales process to a fraction of the time it normally takes to find a buyer.”

The Marine Online Auction portal has created a buzz in the industry, and this type of momentum and excitement for sales, is exactly what has been missing in Asia.

Adrian said that due to the success they are having selling all types of vessels through our Online Auction system, there are many in the industry throughout Australia and overseas that are interested in coming on board with Marine Auctions.

Marine Auctions are an Official Supporting Partner of the 2017 Singapore Yacht Show and will officially launch their Online Auction method of sale, for the Asian region.

If your boat is just sitting there ... ... it’s costing you $$$$!

Why not get us to move it!

When considering selling your boat you should ask your broker: • Do they deposit all proceeds in an audit trust account as required by the Office of Fair Trading? We Do! • Do they have a P.I. insurance? We Do! • Are they Certified Valuers? We Are! • Do they have a database of around 600,000 email addresses? We Do!

The Fixed Price Problem 50% of potential buyers may never see your boat because it is perceived to be out of their price range.

ONE OF THE BIGGEST DETERRENTS IN SELLING ANY TYPE OF VESSEL IS PUTTING A PRICE ON IT.

ASKING PRICE $120,000 (+ 20%)

TRUE MARKET VALUE $100,000

We could save you ... time and money!

PERCEIVED PRICE $80,000 (- 20%)

THE ALTERNATIVE WAY OF SELLING ANY TYPE OF VESSEL

WITH PROVEN AND SUCCESSFUL RESULTS

WHY AUCTION?

It gives you more options It has been proven, time and time again, that the auction process is one of the most effective methods of marketing any type of asset, including all types of vessels.

At Marine Auctions we do not wait for buyers to come to us, we aggressively go to them. That’s why we have sold so many boats, with some well in excess of our clients’ expectations.

Our excellent track record, professional marketing campaigns and more importantly the results we achieve, continue to impress. Our extensive database and the distribution of our coloured brochures, are the envy of many in the industry. If you are not auctioning your boat with Marine Auctions you could be missing out on the highest bid.

Too busy to make it to any of our auctions?

Why not try live internet bidding.

Marine Auctions is proud to announce the introduction of live internet, online bidding.

Having this new technology increases exposure of our vendors’ vessels to more interested parties allowing any potential buyer to bid in real-time from any location in the world via the internet.

Contact us for more information.

MARINE AUCTIONS & VALUATIONS Phone: (07) 3268 3614 Email: adrian@marineauctions.com.au

www.marineauctions.com.au Active Results World Wide.

37

BOAT GUIDE

R A E F O N OF SALTWATER

8 Maintenance tips for wake and ski boats

By Joel Wing

T

he Gold Coast and other South East Queensland regions have so many amazing coastal waterways, which are fast becoming a breeding ground for world-class waterskiers and wakeboarders. I have been very lucky to ski along these sheltered saltwater bays, just off the ocean with calm rivers and creeks. The Broadwater and Moreton Bay waterways are similar saltwater environments I have skied on during my younger years.

If your boat is on a trailer, you can tow the boat around the block or to the service station, so that the mixture slushes around inside. If you are out on the water, you can do this before you launch, as well as during and after your day out on the water. The use of products that remove all traces of salt will minimise corrosive effects of salt on your boat by keeping your bilge and engine saltwater-free. Some of my recommended brands are Mac’s, Salt-x and Salt-away.

I grew up in Port Hacking in Sydney’s south and Myuna Bay in Newcastle, which have produced many of Australia’s best tournament skiers, with names like Karins Nowlan, Tim Bradstreet, our first World Trick Champion Bruce Cockburn, among others.

3 - Use a salt-preventer as a flushing additive.

With convenient access to our own mecca of protected waters here on the Gold Coast, it saddens me to hear so many boat owners who insist on driving to freshwater dams and rivers hours away, as they are too afraid of what might happen to their boats if they launch them into saltwater.

Below are some tips to care for your water ski and wake boat so you can enjoy all the saltwater estuaries around South East Queensland, which are ideal for watersport lovers. Although, this information is centred towards inboard ski boats, as these are the owners who are usually most concerned with saltwater usage, much of these ideas can be applied to other inboard boats and outboard engine usage.

Prior to launching The following are maintenance steps for either a new boat, or recently purchased second-hand boat, which are easy to carry out on your vessel before launching in saltwater.

1 - Grease the engine mounts.

Although engine mounts are heavy duty and strong, these are susceptible to corrosion as they are at the lowest part of the engine, and highly likely to be in contact with saltwater or moisture. However, although the corrosion is unlikely to cause any real operational problems, the rust that forms is unsightly. Most of the mounts are made of cast iron, which easily corrodes. It is a good idea to spread marine grease over and around all the engine mounts. The best way is to apply using your hands. While you are at it, grease the steering and shaft equipment, and any other part of the engine you believe will benefit from a coat of grease.

2 - Wash the bilge area with a salt-impeding product.

During normal use of your boat in saltwater, there may be water that will enter the bilge and make contact with the lower engine. An easy way to wash this area is to pour a preventive salt-impeding product into the bilge area with the bungs in, and then adding freshwater.

38

You can rig up an attachment to run the salt-preventer solutions through your engine to prevent salt buildup and corrosion. You may choose to flush the engine with one of these products prior to putting the boat in saltwater for the first time. I recommend you use the product during flushing every 50 hours or so. However, if you are an infrequent boat user or you are really concerned about salt building up that cause corrosion, then flush with the product every time you use your boat in saltwater. Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for these products.

4 - Prevent engine corrosion with a lanolin-based product.

The entire engine can be sprayed with a lanolin-based product for corrosion prevention. It can be very effective to do so, while paying particular attention to the alternator that draws in salty air. The lanolin product can be used all over the boat parts susceptible to corrosion. Always test the lanolin products on rubber before applying, as some have been known to cause deterioration.

With frequently used saltwater boats, the trailer can also be painted with a thicker layer of lanolin product. Note that this may cause the trailer to pick up dirt and grime while being towed, but it certainly prevents corrosion. Once you arrive home, an easy rinse with a degreaser will return your trailer to a good clean appearance.

On-going boat maintenance 5 - Freshwater engine flushing If you are using your boat in saltwater, it is vital to flush your engine with freshwater after every use, even if you do have a heat exchanger/internal cooling system. As mentioned earlier, I suggest running the salt-preventer through the engine during flushing at least every 50 hours. Make sure you give your engine additional revolutions beyond idle, around 2,000 is recommended. Your home’s water supply may not give the water pressure required by the engine for flushing, so keep your eye on the gauge. Here is a good tip: When you are finished flushing, it is advised to turn the water off first, and then turn the engine off.

6 - Importance of cleaning and washing down Do not think that spraying your boat with freshwater is enough to remove all salt. The best way to remove the salt is to wash your boat as you would a car: fill up a bucket of car or boat wash, and wipe using a big sponge before rinsing off. From time-to-time (or after every use, if you prefer), you can use the salt-preventer product when undertaking the final rinse. This is very effective at preventing salt build-up.

7 - Washing the engine bay thoroughly The “marinised” engine in your boat is usually spray-proof at a minimum, so do not fear washing down your engine bay area. However, try to avoid drenching the electric components. Be sure you spray right up under the sump – the underside of your engine. During your internal wash down, include the shaft and steering equipment, and all the way to the rear, where saltwater may have been splashed around during use.

8 - Have an occasional freshwater ski The best and most exciting way to clean your boat after frequent use in saltwater, is to simply take it to a freshwater location, and use the boat for skiing under full load. This will give you an opportunity to wash the trailer thoroughly by submerging it during the launch, and to clean the engine and the hull with freshwater while you play. It is also a fun change to explore some new inland skiing locations!

It will ultimately be up to you, the owner of the boat, to design your preventive and after-use cleaning routine.

Every boat is different, so take some time to look and think about what areas might be susceptible to corrosion and treat these accordingly. Seek advice from your boat dealer and other experienced boat owners. But most importantly, do not let the fear of using your boat in saltwater prevent you from enjoying the variety of waterways that South East Queensland has to offer!

MAY - AUG 2017

PARKER

BOAT GOLD COAST

Pilothouse designed for fishing and cruises

T

he boundary between sports fishing boat and weekend cruiser is a very blurred one in the Polish built Parker 800 Weekend. The boat has been designed with cruising credentials to a point where you can easily forget the fishing capabilities, and view them almost as an out and out cruiser.

The 800 Weekend is very economical to run and maintain as it’s powered by a Mercury 300hp four stroke outboard.

As a weekend cruiser the accommodation is, perhaps, the most important aspect and the 800 packs a lot into its 26 foot length. There is a separate bow cabin offering a unique privacy for this length of boat. The cabin has ample sitting headroom and beneath the bed there is lots of open bilge storage.

Moving aft, on the starboard side, is the toilet compartment and a compact crawl-in double berth which is ideal for the kids.

The helm comprises a single sliding helm seat with lifting bolster. The helm is well thought out with all switches easy to reach, and all instruments easy to read. Alongside the helm there is an opening sliding window, and above an opening sunshine roof.

Opposite the helm is the forward dinette seat with a flippable backrest to enable it to provide a second forward facing seat. When not underway this seat forms part of the dinette, which is set around a lovely teak table. Here you can comfortably seat three or four people for dinner and, at night, this area can be converted into a third sleeping area.

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Behind the helm, on the starboard side, you will find the galley. This compact unit delivers the basics for a weekend afloat including a small sink, a double burner hob, a fridge and a useful amount of cupboard space and storage.

The 800 can reach speeds of over 30 knots, capable of getting you to where you are going quickly. The boat turns sharply and precisely, the steering is well balanced and overall the drive is smooth and with the patio doors closed, quiet. When the going gets rough and you are in a boat of this length, details like this matter.

Parker boats are making waves in Australia as they offer great value for money while deliver a mix of cruising and fishing capabilities. They are practical and easy to own and offer little design features and levels of equipment that you don’t always find on their rivals. You can have one of these 8 metre, four plus berth family cruising boats on the water for a tad under $140,000. See the range of Parker Boats at Sanctuary Cove Boat Show (SCIBS) and take advantage of the exclusive boat show special offers. (By Digital Marine Media Ltd) www.nautilusaustralia.com.au

39

BOAT GUIDE JOURNEY SPORT

Wake-up Call

By Narayan Pattison

have not heard of wakesurfing before, do I fnotyouworry – neither have I.

It is a bit like wakeboarding in that you start off being pulled behind the boat. The key difference is you drop the rope after a few seconds and start surfing the wave that is created by some impressive new boating technology. Needless to say, when I was invited to try wakesurfing at the recent Noosa Festival of Surfing, I jumped at the chance.

By far, one of the highlights of the Noosa Festival was when world champion skim boarder Austin Keen sprinted down the beach with his board, jumped on it and skimmed across the water to catch the wave of a passing boat’s wake and seamlessly started surfing on it. Talk about an incredible stunt!

To avoid embarrassing myself I did not try and copy him, and opted to take a more traditional route to my wakesurfing, letting Chaparral’s new 2017 257 SSX bowrider take me out.

As we powered through the waves north of Noosa Beach, it became easy to appreciate why bowriders are becoming so popular. The 7.8m 257 SSX effortlessly accommodated the seven of us in comfort without feeling crowded. This is not surprising since it is rated to carry 16 people.

Whether you are popping open a portion of the windscreen to sit on the bow lounges, or relaxing on the stern seats (which can switch between lounge and sunbed modes at the touch of a button), there is plenty of space to enjoy.

Tricks while wake surfing requiring great strength

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Chaparral Surf Gate system that splits the wake

Having a boat that can create its own surf waves requires some pretty amazing technology under the surface. I asked Chaparral’s Managing Director Scott O’Hare to find out how this is achieved.

Now that I understood the technology and saw Austin carve up the waves, I figured I was ready to give it a crack. After face-planting spectacularly half a dozen times, I was grateful for two things. Firstly, that stacking it when you are wakesurfing does not hurt because your feet are not awkwardly strapped to the board like wakeboarding. Secondly, the Chaparral guys were patient enough to keep backing the boat up so I could give it another go. While I struggled to stay on the board long enough, I still had a lot of fun – considering that I am a complete novice at surfing and wakeboarding! The more experienced surfers I saw having a try were able to get a handle on surfing the boat’s wave very easily.

“Malibu created this Surf Gate system that splits the wake, so that one wake doesn’t cancel out the other. It actually pushes one wake past the other so that it allows the uni-wake to create a wave,” explains Scott. “We loved the Surf Gate technology, so Chaparral decided to partner with Malibu and put our money into designing the hulls and doing the rest of the research to enhance what Malibu had already done. To maximise the wave, we have modified our hull and put Volvo forwardfacing drives which are very efficient. It is safer for the surfer with the propellers facing forward than facing back. From a fumes perspective, the exhaust exits 50 feet behind the skier, so you don’t get any in your face.”

While I only saw the Surf Gate technology used on the ocean, from what I have seen and heard of its performance on calmer freshwater, it is capable of producing noticeably larger waves that are even easier to surf and pull tricks on. It is definitely a very handy feature of the new Chaparral boats equally suited to both salt and freshwater. Being able to enjoy the cleaner wake in freshwater is great. But considering many of us live right next to saltwater on the Gold Coast, being able to wakesurf out on the ocean or on the Broadwater means you can get a quick fix without spending an hour getting to the right river or lake. More time on the water and less time driving is always a win in my book.

Champion surfer Austin Keen grabbed his board and jumped into the water to show us how wakesurfing is done. Austin and the boat were bobbing up and down in the swell about 100m out from Noosa Beach. As he got his board ready, the guys tossed him a rope and he gave the thumbs up. The boat powered off and Austin skimmed across the wake and began surfing the one-metre wave. He quickly dropped the rope and started pulling off tricks, like the 180s with jaw-dropping style.

Narayan eventually able to surf behind the Chaparral

MAY - AUG 2017

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41

BOAT GOLD COAST

JET SKI SOCIAL CLUB Overnighter to Caloundra in May h e Breakfast Club is a social group for jet ski T owners who have a passion for discovering new destinations with personal watercrafts. As part of the

2017 Re-discover South East Queensland Adventure Tour, the club has arranged a social ride to Caloundra on 13 May, with the opportunity to spend the night and return the following day.

“This ride is an excellent way to prepare mentally and physically for the year’s biggest ride to Hervey Bay in July,” says Jetskishop.com owner James Tod, the club’s event organizer. “We will leave from Southport with riders in the water around 6:30. There won't be a need to bring extra fuel, as we will stop at Raby Bay for breakfast and fuel. The group will stop again at the marina at Bribie Island, and we finish the day with smooth ride conditions up through the Pumicestone Passage.” He confirms that

42

the exact route will depend on the weather and tides on the day. If all goes to plan, the group plan to be back in Southport the following day by 1:30pm.

The group are thoughtful of members’ financial situation and have arranged a variety of overnight hotel accommodation options, as well as encouraging shared rooms or caravan park stays in Caloundra. “While everyone might not be staying at the same places, we will still all dine together for dinner and breakfast at a place so that none of the social group vibe is lost.” Additionally, there will be a small fee to cover the cost of hiring a guard to watch the skis that will be tied up to the boardwalk near the Caloundra lifesaving club.

“The Re-discover tours are a great way to capture special moments, while establishing friendships through the

awesome camaraderie of like-minded riders,” James continues. “The team at the Jetskishop.com will be leading each ride, and offering technical support and mechanical advice, if required.”

James believes that by organising treks to interesting destinations, 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 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.”

That social ride to Caloundra offers a whole lot of action and adventure, jam-packed into an overnight stay.

Interested riders can email James for more details at james@jetskishop.com.

MAY - AUG 2017

BOAT GOLD COAST

Why Inflatable Boats are a better option ustralians now understand the benefits of A purchasing inflatables boats. “The inflatable boats offer so much more in terms of use and comfort, as well as a modern elegant look,” declares Mike Orsmond, founding director of RIB Force Inflatable Boats.

Here are more of the reasons: Safety. Mike explains, “The safety features of an inflatable boat will provide the confidence needed to enjoy boating in a responsible manner without losing the thrill. Inflatables are very easy to handle and provide great tracking, as the RIB design allows a sharp V without the threat of capsizing.

This also drastically reduces the shock effect of hitting a wave as the tubes act as a giant shock absorber.”

Payload. For general use, the inflatable boat has many advantages over conventional craft. The huge inherent buoyancy allows payloads up to three times, when compared to tinnies. A 4-metre inflatable boat can accommodate 10 people. In comparison, a 4-metre tinny can only accommodate four or five people.

Access to shallow water. “The design of an inflatable boat allows for a very shallow draft allowing an inflatable

BOATGOLDCOAST.COM. AU

boat to go where others cannot in shallow water.

When off shore, the safety features of an inflatable boat enables it to go where other craft are prevented due to adverse wave conditions—the reason why the navy, police, and rescue use and prefer inflatable boats,” says Mike.

Design Range. Inflatables allow a wide range of choice of boat designs, from open inflatables to sophisticated centre consoles. The range includes racing boats, fishing boats, elegant and stylish tenders, general conveyance, and a host of other applications.

Getting on board. It is extremely easy to climb into an inflatable, compared to climbing into a tinny. This is one of the many reasons an inflatable RIB is the vessel of choice for divers and spear fishermen.

Collapsible Option. Another option is a completely collapsible inflatable, which will allow the intrepid 4x4 enthusiast, to go to places off the map and explore.

When deflated, inflatables are small bundles, which are easy to store, and when required, inflates into a serious boat capable of getting you where you want

to go. There are collapsible RIBs with rigid hulls, allowing for serious exploring.

“We get to speak to a lot of people who are considering the switch to an inflatable boat,” states Mike. “Buyers have been swayed by cheap pricing of a budget inflatable boat, only to discover that the standard of the boat and finish is simply not designed to last.”

RIB Force Inflatables has been in the business for over 25 years with an ever increasing and loyal client base.

Mike declares, “We stand by the quality of our inflatable boat brands from the world’s leading manufacturers.”

These include America’s number one AB Inflatables, as well as Aurora Inflatables and Mercury Inflatables.

The company also offers convenient boat-motortrailer (BMT) packages, being an authorised Mercury outboard engine dealer and operates a knowledgeable in-house service and repair division.

“If you want to tow a skier – no problem. Or you just want to have a family day boat – there is an inflatable boat guaranteed to offer you every kind of experience.” www.ribforceinflatables.com.au Ph: 1800 742 367

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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 44

247 Bayview Street, Runaway Bay Marina, Queensland 4216

MAY - AUG 2017

BOAT GOLD COAST

RUNAWAY BAY MARINA – MORE DESIRABLE THAN EVER A combined with competitive pricing, has increased occupancy and

n injection of investment, improvements and energy on the ground,

activity at Runaway Bay Marina, making it more desirable for passionate boaties and seafarers than ever before.

Established in 1979 in its idyllic location at the southern end of the Gold Coast Broadwater, this iconic marine haven has been rejuvenated with over half a million dollars in management expenditure over the last 12 months, and more expected to come.

“It’s an investment that’s paying off,” says Operations Manager Michael Grundy, who has witnessed over 17 years of the extensive history of the marina. “We’ve completed a lot of improvements on the ground. Locals and customers are noticing the changes. It’s bustling. We’ve seen an increase in the occupancy in marina berths and dry storage. Activity in general around the yard has increased significantly.

“We’re receiving very positive and genuine feedback. Our customers are coming in and saying how impressed they are, and how the activity and service reminds them of this place in its much earlier ‘hey-day’.”

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The investment shows a commitment to the ongoing legacy of the local business, with the extensive rejuvenation process rolling out in stages. “To date, we have resurfaced the carpark and concreted much of the dry storage area. We have refreshed signage, purchased a forklift and sweeper. There’s been lots of fresh coats of paint, general repairs and maintenance taking place,” says Michael. “And there’s a lot more in the pipeline.”

Apart from the physical change, there is a palpable new energy also in play.

“With the change, we’re enjoying a new energy amongst our team. They are motivated by the customers’ feedback, and driven to be the best at what we do,” says Michael. “This is complemented by new team members, including a dedicated customer service presence in the front office. Natalina has a vibrant and outgoing personality, and looks forward to greeting you over the phone or onsite. She’s one of the many passionate members of our team that goes above and beyond to care for our customers.”

Experience the new energy and increased activity of Runaway Bay Marina for yourself. Phone Natalina on (07) 5577 1400 or email her at info@runawaybaymarina.com.au; or chat with one of our other friendly and helpful team members onsite today for a competitive quote for your boat storage or shipyard services.

45

BOAT GUIDE JOURNEY

CONQUERING The beginning of the journey

Dennis and Jill’s Justus, and Blair and Dianne’s Mystique Princess began their trip from the Gold Coast, stopping for one night at RQ Canaipa Point on Russell Island. With a forecast of 25-knot wind the next day, the boats encountered white caps and rising sea after Coochiemudlo Island.

Lloyd and Barb, and their boat Wine Down were waiting at their home in Aquatic Paradise in Wellington Point to host the two other boats for the night. With strong winds and rain, the three boats took a couple of days before deciding to head out to Moreton Bay.

By Blair McDonald rom time to time, boaties come up with some F interesting ideas to challenge themselves. This time, the plan was to take on the Pumicestone Passage, the channel between Bribie Island and the Queensland coast from the northern end of Moreton Bay to Caloundra on the Sunshine Coast.

The Pumicestone Passage is notorious for being particularly winding, narrow, and shallow, to the point where it actually dries right out in places at low tide.

It is already a challenge to navigate in a small open boat; so to attempt the passage in larger boats would certainly be an adventure.

Some ‘serious’ planning ensued by Dennis Fountain, Blair McDonald, and Lloyd Abbot to enable their boats – Justus, a Riviera 35 Flybridge Cruiser, Mystique Princess, a Fairway 36 Flybridge Cruiser, and Wine Down, a Larson 36 Sport Cruiser – to have any chance of negotiating what lay ahead. Each boat had a draft of approximately one metre, so tide calculations were critical.

The three boats ventured north to the marker beacon off Deception Bay in sloppy seas before turning east for Bribie Island. The 2.7nm easterly heading had the whole of the Moreton Bay swell smack on the beam.

Some motor boat “tacking” was required to prevent the possibility of a capsize until heading back north again to the entrance of the Pumicestone Passage.

The short trip up under the Bribie Bridge in brilliant sunshine to the Banksia Beach anchorage was so wonderfully calm after several hours of battling the Moreton Bay chop.

The fleet had an early start the next morning to Mission Point. Mystique Princess, with the protected prop and rudder, was tasked to lead through the shallows. Unfortunately, during a ‘back off’ manoeuvre in a shallow area about halfway to Mission Point, the ‘floating’ rope to the towed dingy was sucked under Mystique Princess and jammed around the prop and shaft. The propeller chopped the rope, which sent the dingy (with a brand new motor attached) floating away in the strong tide, and the Mystique Princess was dead in the water.

Anchors were deployed and Dennis arranged dingy transport to retrieve the errant dingy.

Donning the snorkeling mask and togs, Blair dove into the water to untangle the rope that was tightly wrapped as steel wire around the shaft. After 10 dives in a strong tidal flow without being swept away, Bla ir and Dia nn

Sunset dr in

46

ks at B anks

ia B each

e in a dingy at Ca

Blair cut and prised away the rope. A skin fitting for the lazarette bilge pump was smashed in the dingy incident, so more repairs were made.

After a hot shower to wash away the anti-fouling paint off Blair’s battered blue body, a few drinks were in order at Mission Point, as the red sun set behind the magnificent Glass House Mountains. An easy cruise? Maybe not that day.

The notorious three The three notorious sections of the Pumicestone Passage are The Skids, The Narrows, and The W’s. The whole stretch is only one and a half nautical miles from beginning to end, yet the high tide varies by one hour and 20 minutes across this short section, being later at the beginning of The Skids. The tidal flow is influenced by Moreton Bay at the southern end and the Bribie Bar at the northern end.

The three boats upped anchor just after dawn planning to arrive at The Skids about one hour before high tide hoping to be able to negotiate all three sections in succession. The day was clear and calm. The small fleet approached the beginning of The Skids with some trepidation, with Mystique Princess leading the way.

Constant radio contact kept the boats informed of the depth below. Pulses rose as Blair radioed that the depth had dropped to just 0.17m (6 inches) below the keel. Justus strove to find a slightly deeper channel one side of the trail stirred up ahead, and Wine Down attempted to raise the stern legs only to find that one leg would not budge. This did cause some concern as the propeller on that engine had begun to ‘feel’ the bottom.

Boats in the past have grounded in this area and have taken days to kedge themselves free before returning unsuccessfully back south. With this in mind the fleet pushed onward, slowly ahead. The sigh of relief was brief after having exited The

loundra

Enjoying a gl

as s of wine

at RQYS Ca

na ip a

MAY - AUG 2017

THE PUMICESTONE PASSAGE Skids. The green markers ahead looked to be right among the trees on the shore. It looked impossible to pass between the markers and the shore. Blair and Dianne double-checked the chart. They were entering the aptly named The Narrows. Branches virtually brushed the starboard side of the flybridge for some 500 metres as the boats edged their way forward into the wider channel beyond.

Near the exit of The Narrows, Mystique Princess touched bottom. Justus managed to slide across.

With one fully deployed stern leg, Wine Down came to a halt. Lloyd was not happy. Words could not describe Barb’s disposition. However, with some power juggling, Wine Down was freed and the voyage continued north into The W’s. Each boat had to concentrate fully on the port and starboard markers through this section, as at times the leading boat would completely disappear

around several corners before becoming visible once again in a wider channel.

With the tide already beginning to ebb, the exit of The W’s had begun to shoal considerably. With depth sounders showing zero and ground trails stirred up, the fleet entered beautiful clear deep calm water at Roy’s and dropped anchor for a well-deserved coffee aboard.

The intrepid fleet pushed north. One hour later, the boats were anchored up at Blue Hole on the very northwestern end of Bribie Island in Caloundra. A well-earned “holiday” ensued for two days at anchor.

The fleet left Caloundra with a sense of confidence on a bright sunny morning for the voyage back south. With the same 2.17m planned tide as the trip north, and the earlier high tide at

The W’s, it meant a rising tide as they negotiated the shoals ahead. This confidence was soon dashed as Mystique Princess came to a halt right at the entrance to The W’s. More power was required to slide across the shallow bank and Blair advised those following to ‘power up’ prior to the entrance. Both Justus and Wine Down were able to power over the shoal without damage. Another two ‘power-overs’ were encountered through The Skids, with a lucky break for Wine Down as it came off a “sticky” situation.

The voyage continued down the passage relatively incident-free. It became quite clear that navigating the markers required some “channel interpretation”. Another two-day celebratory holiday was enjoyed alongside the beautiful Banksia Beach shore before crossing Moreton Bay and heading back to home ports. The fleet had ‘conquered’ the Pumicestone Passage.

ANCHORLINE BROKERAGE SELECTION

Riviera 33

Fairway 36

$135,000

Maintained in excellent condition by her current owner this Riviera 33 is powered by twin 210hp Cummins and cruises at 18-20 knots, with a consumption of approximately 45 litres per hour. Continually upgraded, including the addition of new clears, bimini and aft deck awning. Lowrance GPS/Plotter and Depth Sounder. Hull recently sandblasted and re-antifouled. Excellent value for money and an inspection will certainly impress.

$185,000

Following an extensive refurbishment, this Fairway 36 is by far the best example that we have seen in a Fairway of similar age. New Fuel and Water Tanks, generator, new inverter, desalinator, air conditioning, new wiring and switch panels. New interior furnishings including; upholstery, head linings, fixtures and fittings, Corian counter top, cooktop and grill, new teak and holly flooring, and all of the interior timber work has been re-varnished.

Back Cove 37

$529,000

Undoubtedly one of the finest looking sedan cruisers built, the Back Cove 37 is a single engine ‘Downeast’ style motor boat that is built in Maine, USA. Delivered new to her current owners in 2009 and has since been professionally maintained and kept in excellent condition.

This two stateroom cruiser has been equipped for cruising the East Coast and provides a spacious layout, air conditioned comfort & a complete range of electronics.

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

BOATGOLDCOAST.COM. AU

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The 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.

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MAY - AUG 2017

BOAT GOLD COAST

Zodiac Inflatable Boats

120 YEARS OF HISTORY, PRESTIGE & HERITAGE

Z

odiac’s biggest Gold Coast dealer is back! The Cove Pool & Spa at Sanctuary Cove is the hub for Zodiac boats on the Gold Coast. The Cove Pool & Spa is powered by Captain Nemo’s. Their strong belief in customer satisfaction and quality, with their high level of professionalism and knowledge of the industry are reasons why people keep coming back.

Captain Nemo’s has three stores situated in Brisbane, Helensvale, and the Cove Pool & Spa at Sanctuary Cove. Roger Braun, director and owner has a contagious passion for Zodiac Marine and has been selling Zodiac inflatable boats since 2008, with his first Zodiac Marine & Pool store in Mackay, Qld. In 2009, Roger opened the doors to his Gold Coast Zodiac Marine & Pool Concept Centre.

Zodiac inflatable boats have 120 years of history, prestige and heritage. These boats have stayed firmly in French hands with new French owners Zodiac - Nautica.

The Zodiac is famous for its exceptional loading capacity, reassuring stability, and space-saving portability, while maintaining incomparable quality finishes.

What makes Zodiac so superior is the high performance fabric. The Zodiac inflatable boat uses a unique material called Strongan. It can be described as a type of PVC, but its properties are completely different to other PVCs that it might as well be a different material. Strongan is a third generation plastomer, which bonds waterproof inner and outer layers to a heavy-duty dense polyester support cloth. It is resistant to cuts and abrasions, and is easily repairable in the unlikely event of a puncture.

Zodiac is still the standard to which all other inflatable boats are compared. Zodiac uses a unique method of manufacturing – “Thermo-bonding” – developed by Zodiac many years ago, to achieve unparalleled durability, without compromising the integrity of their marine craft. Patented by Zodiac Marine, this method has almost eliminated the use of old-fashioned glued methods. As a consequence, the seams are virtually indestructible. This system provides rapid inflation and deflation, allows easy adjustment of the pressure, and is even more airtight and well protected against sand and debris.

Zodiac Marine is the only manufacturer to have achieved the fitting of rubbing strake by a welding technique, which means protecting the boat from bumps, knocks and the passengers from spray. As cost is a factor, we justify ours as it is no surprise most manufacturers of inflatable boats use low-grade structural ply for this purpose.

Zodiac only uses the finest marine ply to avoid rot and maintain structural integrity in the long run. These inflatables have oversized, stainless steel towing rings capable of handling pulling forces of up to half a tonne, and are correctly located for efficient towing using a “V” system.

There has been no expense spared when creating a Zodiac Marine inflatable, and this reflects Zodiac’s unbeatable time in the industry, as you can maintain peace of mind that your latest Zodiac Marine purchase is built to last and will surpass expectations.

Gold Coast’s biggest Zodiac Inflatable Boat Dealer’s once-a-year sale starts 22 May till 4 June. See them at the Sanctuary Cove Boat Show. Do yourself a favour. Check out the world-famous Zodiac Inflatable Boats. You will not be disappointed!

We are located at The Marine Village, Shop 42C Quay St Sanctuary Cove, 4212 Australia Tel: 07 55341288 www.captainnemos.com.au

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49

BOAT GUIDE JOURNEY

That heeling feeling that only a monohull can provide, SYC monohull race boat Ocean Gem

HEAD

TO

HEAD

Long-time monohull owner CAROLINE STRAINIG takes a walk on the dark side to see how monos and multis stack up when it comes to sailing and boating in South East Queensland.

Will she swap allegiances?

Read on to find out.

Plenty of family-friendly deck space is only one plus of owning a multihull (Lagoon)

TEAM

Monohull Caroline Strainig, ex-sailing magazine editor, monohull owner and club racer

TEAM

Multihull

Geoff Cruse, multihull racer, marine surveyor and retired multihull boat builder

MONOS AT A GLANCE PROS • Exhilaration of that heeling feeling sailors love • Cheaper per foot length overall • Lower berthing charges • Self-righting after capsize, normally . . . AND CONS • Deeper draught; although some shoal-draft/ drop keel available • Most cannot be beached • Less space than the same length catamaran • Slower, so less able to outrun bad weather • Heeling at acute angles that can be uncomfortable 50

omeone asked me recently what type of S boat is best for South East Queensland – a monohull or a multihull. As a monohull sailor, I only had one answer. But then, I thought, why not investigate the multihull, learn more about it from a devout ‘multihuller’, and compare with the mono? Off I trundled to do just that.

THE CASE FOR MULTIHULLS Geoff Cruse, the Manly-based sailor who agreed to speak on behalf of multihulls, was a boat builder for 40 plus years producing Windspeed multihulls before becoming a marine surveyor.

He has lost track of the number of multihulls he has sailed on. Today, he still races regularly on a Nacra 36 speed machine, and a Schionning 16 high-performance cruiser, among others.

His grin was a mile wide when I asked him what he loves about sailing multihulls. “I can sum it up in one word – fun,” he says. “It’s a speed thing. It’s so exhilarating passing other boats, and we sail right on the edge, lifting a hull and with the bows going under.”

Here are some of the other reasons Geoff thinks multihulls should be your first choice for our local waters.

Geoff explains that a typical 10-metre multihull draws from around 1.2 metres to as little as 0.45 metres if it has dagger boards and a kick-up rudder. “This means you can get in close and beach the boat. And at places like the Sandhills, this is fantastic experience,” he says.

He has wonderful memories of family holidays beaching their multihull, and letting the children run wild on the beach nearby while the adults relaxed on the boat.

The shallow draught also means multis can anchor closer in, where it is more sheltered.

Geoff acknowledges some drop-keel monos can do the same, but says it is unusual to find a drop keel in a larger mono.

Geoff believes a multi is without parallel when it comes to space and comfort. “If you want the on-water equivalent of an apartment, you cannot go past them,” he says. “Yes, per foot overall length, they are more expensive, but that’s because you have much more room aboard.” He estimates a 10-metre catamaran would have as much living space as a 12-metre monohull.

He says multis sail flatter than a mono, and tells the tale of how a rose bowl left out on a table by mistake survived an offshore delivery.

However, he admits they can still have a choppy action, particularly to windward offshore. So it is not always “sailing at its level best”, as multi lovers claim.

Safety-wise, Geoff stresses the cruising catamaran of today is a different creature from the high-speed racing machines we see capsizing in races like the America’s Cup. “Nowadays it would be very rare for a cruising cat to overturn,” he says. “Cruising monos should be compared with cruising multis, and the same for racers.”

He points out that, multis have multiple hulls instead of one, so there are two or three independent watertight floatation areas. “Multis are unlikely to sink when flooded or capsized because of this,” he says.

MAY - AUG 2017

A Lagoon 450 dream machine – hard to go past for space and glamour afloat

MONOS VERSUS MULTIS WHY IS A MULTIHULL THE BEST BOAT FOR MORETON BAY? “Multihulls are ideal for our local waters mainly due to their shallow draught of around one metre and massive interior and exterior volume, which makes them perfect for family and friends to get away on for the day, weekend, or week. South East Queensland is multihull mecca on the Broadwater or out in the ocean.”

- Rowan McMahon, Queensland state manager, The Multihull Group (national Lagoon distributors)

Monohull owners sailing a Dehler 34

THE CASE FOR MONOHULLS Just as Geoff finds sailing on multis fun, I find sailing on a monohull thrilling. It is that heeling feeling, as you go to windward, and the boat heels and settles into the groove. It just feels so – well – right.

When it comes to speed, a well-designed monohull can give you a more than acceptable turn of speed. Although the rule is that multihulls are faster, which makes for shorter passages and gives more chance of outrunning bad weather, there are monohulls that can do the same.

A monohull has less windage than a multi, making it easier to berth. In tricky situations, the multi is harder to berth. Moreover, because of its shallower draught and the extra windage, the multi swings differently at anchor to a deep-keel mono, so you need to be careful to allow enough swinging room when anchoring near monos.

The signs a monohull is overpowered are unmistakable, even to a novice. A mono will round up, heel excessively, and basically tell you where to go. A multi has very high initial stability in comparison, so it heels much less. Yes, there are some signs for a multi – they will heel slightly, start to bury a bow, and the steering will become heavier – but these signs are less obvious to inexperienced sailors.

Even a small monohull always has sufficient accommodation space for a comfortable overnighter.

A $10,000 RL24 trailer-sailer has a vee-berth, and at least one-quarter berth. On the other hand, a small catamaran has minimal, if any, accommodation over the bridgedeck, so you need to buy a sizable multi before you can overnight in comfort.

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Admittedly, multis do rule the roost when it comes to shallow draught most of the time. But an increasing number of monohull manufacturers offer shallow-draught versions, such as the beachable Sun Odyssey 33i from Jeanneau. Trailer-sailers are also outstanding in this respect.

A mono may not sail as flat as a multi, but a multi can still develop a jerky, sideways seasickinducing motion, which some people find worse than a monohull’s. The sound of waves slapping on the underside of the multi’s bridgedeck when going to windward can also be annoying, which obviously does not exist on a mono.

In case of a capsize, the trusty mono will normally self-right. On the other hand, the multi will stay upside down, albeit with a stable platform while awaiting rescue.

Another tick on the plus side for monos is that they take up less space in a marina berth, so berthing fees are usually cheaper. It is possible, though, to pay lesser fees for a multi if you can snag an outside berth at a marina that does not charge extra for wider vessels.

THE VERDICT Weighing up the pros and cons of both when it comes to the Gold Coast and Moreton Bay, I would have to say multihulls have a lot going for them when it comes to sailing and boating in this area. Yes, I admit it! However, until I win Lotto, I will keep sailing on my friend’s drop-keel trailersailer, which can do many of the same things a multihull can – albeit on a more modest scale.

“The shallow draught typical of catamarans and trimarans allows access to the most remote anchorages on the Broadwater and surrounds. And their spacious living and entertaining areas all on the one level ensures you make the most out of your time on the water with loved ones.”

- Mark Elkington, managing director, Multihull Solutions “[There are] One hundred beautiful islands in an underrated location with a huge variety of environments. Much of the bay is simply inaccessible to deep-draught boats and untenable to boats, which roll at anchor. Sail a multi and get there quicker. Enjoy the sail, anchor flatter, relax on the tramps, and have fun.”

- Andrew Crawford, SE sales rep., Multihull Central “A sail or power catamaran makes so much sense for many reasons. They are ‘on the water’ rather than in it, which means that it takes very little power to propel the boat. [They are] brighter and better ventilated inside, provide a large and stable platform, offer privacy when guests are aboard, and their draught means you can anchor in shallow and less crowded areas.”

- Ian Mackenzie, director, Catamaran Company

MULTIS AT A GLANCE PROS • Shallow draught • Ability to beach • Space, glorious space • Exhilarating speed • Flatter sailing . . . AND CONS • Cost per foot length overall • Higher berthing charges • More windage • Difficult to right after capsizing • Less noticeable feedback from the helm, at least for novices 51

BOAT GUIDE JOURNEY

OUR BOATING

Lifestyle

JAMESBY, THE DREAM BOAT Another beautiful sunset at Tipplers

Ja m es b y

an ch o re d

at Ti p p le rs

From just a dream, the sailing life of JOEY and GARY ANGOVE became a reality after selling their business in South Africa, and taking their boating adventure to Australia. washing machine, and all the required equipment aboard for long-term cruising. They are also fast; they can achieve more than 20 knots in ideal conditions, which is exhilarating.

ike so many people, we fell in love with all things L boating even before we had set foot on a sailboat.

We were having lunch overlooking a marina and

taking in the ambience, then we started talking about how lovely it would be to own a boat. We were living in South Africa at the time. After selling Gary’s roadsurfacing business, we decided to make that dream a reality and sail the world.

Following extensive research, we opted for a sailing catamaran and commissioned Rayvin Yachts to build a 30-foot catamaran for us, which we took delivery of in 2007. After sailing the Rayvin to Australia, we lived in Adelaide for two years, before relocating to the Gold Coast, where we decided to upgrade to a larger catamaran, which had more room for living aboard.

Present boat We found our new dreamboat, a Fusion 40 built in 2008, at Multihull Solutions, after scouring the internet for a long time. We renamed her Jamesby after the island where we became engaged on the voyage over from South Africa.

Our new home on the water was built to survey and had hardly been used with only 350 hours on the motors and 100 hours on the generator. The Fusions are very stable and have lots of space on board, boasting a 7.2-metre beam. This model also has a galley down, which allows an extra-large saloon area. Other features include a large enclosed stand-up shower, two air airconditioning units, a 5kva generator, a fully automatic 52

We live aboard Jamesby at the Hope Harbour Marina on the Gold Coast.

But we go out most weekends anchoring at the local anchorages and sometimes further north in Moreton Bay when time allows.

Favourite destinations Our favourite local destination is Tangalooma, a place we love to visit at least once a year. But due to work constraints we mainly anchor at Tipplers.

We love boating on the Gold Coast. We also visit other anchorages like Paradise Point and Wave Break, depending on the weather. The protected Broadwater allows us to go out most weekends because there are so many places to anchor in the lee. There are also so many restaurants and shops to stop off along the way, which help make the Gold Coast an even more enjoyable boating destination.

However, safety-wise, there is a need to keep a sharp lookout because there are so many boats and jet-skis out every weekend.

We are in the process of adding more solar panels and will buy a water-maker and upgrade the navigational equipment before we leave. In terms of gadgets we love right now, top of the list is our Poly Cool ice-making machine, which makes ice in only 12 minutes, and the seasick-preventing Relief Band, which Joey discovered after trying many other seasickness remedies without success.

Special moments The stand-out scary moment for us in our sailing to date was undoubtedly on the way to Cape Town when we hit a low just north of Port Elizabeth, and had waves coming at us taller than our mast. But it did not last long, and experiences like that make the good times seem even more special by comparison.

When we are anchored, and sitting back looking at a beautiful sunset, there is nowhere we would rather be. Probably our only regret about the boating lifestyle is that it took us so long to discover it.

Interview by Caroline Strainig

We rate the facilities here on the Gold Coast as good, although a few extra mooring buoys at Tipplers would not go amiss. Additional Water Police would also be great to make sure everyone does the right thing.

Most of the time we go out by ourselves, but occasionally we invite friends and their overseas visitors.

Cruising plans Long-term, we plan to cruise New Caledonia, Vanuatu and Fiji, and then head west into Southeast Asia, and onto the Mediterranean and back to the Caribbean.

Gary has a Diploma in Civil Engineering and a Diploma in Business Management and works for the council as an asset officer. Joey has a Diploma in Childcare and works at Cubby Care as an educator.

MAY - AUG 2017

BOAT SAILING The Sailing Team has 18 participants, from 8- to 14-yearolds. In this team, participants are those who have completed their junior basics course and are looking to take the next step with their sailing. This team focuses on boat handling and building confidence, and training the sailors to compete in junior club racing.

The Performance Sailing Team has 17 participants, from 8- to 16-year-olds. This team is composed of sailors who are now confident in sailing their boat, completing more advanced drills and training techniques. The training gives them everything they need to compete more effectively in club racing and develop skills to start competing in regattas, including State and National titles.

SYC’S SAILING PERFORMANCE Program

T

here is a new cutting edge sailing program for those who aspire to be more competent club racers, compete at State, National or World Championships, be selected to the Queensland or Australian Sailing Team, or even to become Olympic champions.

Southport Yacht Club (SYC) has started its Sailing Performance Program early this year, with Olympic Gold Medalist Mathew Belcher OAM, as the lead mentor. The Program is athlete-focused, and is using the experience that Mathew has gained from being on the Australian Sailing Team for the past 12 years.

This is the first time SYC has put together a wholistic program that encourages even the youngest sailors at the beginning of their sailing journey, to strive to achieve

their own potential through the stepped program. SYC has had High Performance Teams in the past that only focused on the top performers. This year’s Performance Program not only looks after Sailing Team member Harry at 8 years old, who has only been sailing for four months, but also High Performance team member Tom at 15 years old, who has been sailing for six years and competing in World Sailing events.

There are currently 38 participants in the Program, in three teams: Sailing Team, Performance Sailing Team, and High Performance Sailing Team. The participants are mentored by a team of dedicated, highly skilled on-water coaches, using the session plans designed by Mathew Belcher.

The High Performance Sailing Team has three participants, all in their teens. By invitation only, this intensive program provides every opportunity for sailors with racing experience to reach their own goals. Each of the participants in this team is personally mentored by Mathew Belcher.

Sailing team members have the option to lease a boat from the Club or bring their own. The Club has ten Optimists and five O’Pen BICs available for lease for a term. However, members transitioning from Sailing team to Performance team are encouraged to purchase their own boats before moving onward.

Performance and High Performance team members all have their own boats.

The Program acknowledges that each team member has different needs. Thus, the Program design focuses on the individual. The Sailing Performance Program is a long-term commitment for SYC and Mathew Belcher, with a view to producing exceptional sailors.

The Program runs for four terms, from 23 January to 8 December 2017. (R.Tenefrancia) For more information on the Program, visit www.southportyachtclub.com.au.

COMPLETE ELECTRIC & HYBRID

SAIL BOAT MOTOR SYSTEMS

offers complete electric and hybrid motor O ceanvolt systems with clear benefits compared to diesel

motors. The system creates energy while sailing, is silent, lightweight and maintenance free. You can install it to any sailboat between 20 and 60 ft., whether new or old.

Oceanvolt SEA® system The SEA in Oceanvolt SEA® stands for Silent Electric Autonomy. Oceanvolt SEA® is a complete electric motor system for monohulls and multihulls. It is a complete system with everything you need to become energy autonomous. Oceanvolt SEA® creates energy while sailing (average 2 kW @ 8-17 knots) so you can enjoy the picture-perfect silent sailing experience by day and a good night sleep by night.

the current generated power, RPM and time until the batteries are fully charged. With a folding propeller, the motor kicks the blades out, and centrifugal force combined with the motor controller keep the blades open. The motor controllers tune the system actively at 10 Hz, which prevents the blades from closing (too much braking would close the propellers). This is continuous monitoring; the system will adjust the propeller RPM depending on the boat speed. The system shuts itself down if the battery is fully charged or the boat speed is too low for efficient hydro generation.

The below graph shows the regeneration power of one of the motors on the SIG45 catamaran.

You can create up to 4000W. The regeneration function of the motors will recharge your batteries. Complemented with solar power and shore power, there is almost no need to use a generator while sailing.

How does the system create energy while sailing?

The hydro-generation, or “creating energy while sailing” function, is an automatic feature in all Oceanvolt motors.

This feature is activated by pushing the button on the Oceanvolt displays for 5 seconds. The display will automatically switch to regeneration mode showing BOATGOLDCOAST.COM. AU

Compatible propellers The Oceanvolt systems are optimized for either 2 or 3 blade Flexofold folding propellers and Gori Propellers.

Other folding propellers can also be used, but they provide 30-50% less propulsion and regeneration power.

The highest regeneration power is gained with fixed blade

and adjustable pitch propellers, and also with dedicated systems for hydro generator use, because they allow using a higher pitch/dimension propeller.

At 5-7 knots, the regeneration power with a folding propeller is about half compared to fixed and adjustable pitch propellers. Folding propellers provide low drag due to partially opened blades. A 15-inch 3-blade folding propeller will slow the boat (Maestro 40, 6 tons) about 0.1 knots at 7 knots of speed in regeneration mode. The regenerating feature is extremely suitable for catamarans, because twin motors mean double the energy. Catamarans are also faster, which means that the regeneration power is higher. If the Oceanvolt motor is used only for hydro-generation and not for propulsion, the power boost gained from using a higher pitch propeller dedicated for regenerations is about 20-30%.

If you want to harness the power of the sea, call for more details about Oceanvolt systems.

Ph: 07 5580 1511 www.amwholesale.com.au 53

BOAT GUIDE SAILING

Rare Bird is a strip planked 15m Visionary Cruiser, built by Mark Stephens in Australia.

Two Bows are Better than One The advantages of the reversible Harryproa multihulls explained

Blind Date is a 15m Visionary Sport built in Holland by Rudolph van de Brugh for Jan Schippers and the Zeilen met Visie Foundation which introduces blind people to sailing.

By Narayan Pattison ob Denney has been building and playing with R boats for decades, but he still vividly remembers the day he was sitting on an offshore cat, hanging over the

windward rail and thinking, “Is this the best way to do it?

Surely there’s a better way.” That was the kernel of the idea that grew into the reversible Harryproa multihulls that sail using shunting, rather than tacking and gybing.

What exactly is the shunting sailing method? Shunting is an alternative type of sailing used by proa boats. A proa has two hulls – one long, one short. The short one is always windward, with all the weight in it. In a shunt, both the rig and the rudder rotate 180 degrees while the boat sails off in the other direction. The bow then becomes the stern. It is a similar technique to the one used by kite surfers.

Rob explained some of the benefits of shunting. “On a proa, it’s a little slower than tacking and gybing. But it’s much, much safer, especially in strong breezes.

You don’t go out of control and have to bang the main across in a gybe. Normally when you’re tacking in big waves, you need enough sail area to carry the boat around, which means you need a lot of sail up.

Whereas on a proa, you can have just enough sail up to keep you moving, and so shunting is easy.

Sailing in strong winds and big waves is much easier and less stressful.”

Rob told us that, although he has been building his Harryproas for over a decade, it may never have happened if it was not for his wife, Sue. “Fifteen years ago I was enjoying a couple of wines with my wife on a nice sunny day, and she said, ‘You should build a boat.’ And I said, ‘You’re right. I must do.’

She went on to list a few requirements it needed: it was not allowed to cost much money; it had to be one that wouldn’t make her seasick; and, it had to

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be something that was easy to sail. She loves being on the water, but doesn’t like the hard work, so it needed minimum of strings. That was basically the first Harryproa I built, which did all that. It looked rough as guts, but it worked and didn’t make Sue sick. All the weight was concentrated in the middle so it didn’t pitch much. The motion was nice, and it just had one string to pull for the sail. Shunting is effortless compared to tacking, so she was happy.”

While Rob just built the first Harryproa for himself and his wife to enjoy, fellow sailors soon saw the benefits and wanted one. So his business grew from there.

Over the last decade, he has been refining the building process, which is contained in the plans he sells. “We’ve been developing a new build method called Intelligent Infusion that is very easy, very clean and very cheap.

You build a cheap mould out of MDF, throw a couple of coats of paint on it to make it airtight, then you put all the laminate in it dry, and it’s all flat panels. All the tricky bits, like window rebates and strong points are included in the infusion. It all gets put in a bag, the air is sucked out and the resin goes in. After 40 minutes, you have half a hull built. It takes a couple of days to put it all in, but that’s clean and easy work. The infused laminate is half the weight of a handmade one, and there’s no stickiness, and no dust. It’s at the stage where it’s the smartest way to build a boat.”

Understandably, Rob has been swamped by orders for his Harryproa plans because of the number of advantages they offer over traditional cats. Not only are they easier to build, but they also come in at a tiny fraction of the cost. The plans cost $3,000 to $4,000.

The material costs are about half that of cats and tris of the same length. And the build cost is around $50,000 for a 12m-race version.

The ease of shunting means the Harryproas can be crewed effortlessly with two people. And it can even be done solo, if you prefer. For these reasons, new Harryproa owners are popping up around the world, with many 50- and 60-footers being built in Australia.

Rob explained how friendly the proa community is.

“Everyone we’ve sold plans to has become a friend because there’s so much email going back and forth.

I get on really well with all of my clients, and we’re always ready to take each other out for a sail.”

For more information, contact Rob at harryproa@gmail.com or visit www.harryproa.com.

This is the latest design for a new 40ft Harryproa which weighs just 500kg and is designed for race chartering. Four of them fit in a container, which can be shipped anywhere in the world.

MAY - AUG 2017

BOAT GOLD COAST

EXTERNAL MOUNT TANK INDICATOR KITS obius level indicator kits are different. This innovative patented product is the only G one like it in the market. No drilling, no screws – in fact, no penetration into the tank in anyway. The Gobius sensors have a special adhesive tape that holds the sensors on the side of any tank. This avoids complicated installation procedures. Gobius can be used for fuel, freshwater or waste water (sewage). Any tank, any size and any liquid.

Gobius is very easy to install, and is most often done in just a few minutes. Because Gobius is installed on the side of the tank, this means the tank can be any shape and size, and it will still produce a true reading. Because Gobius measures from the outside, this means you will never need to clean your level kit again. This is great news for blackwater tanks, but will work for all tanks and liquids.

Gobius sensor technology is best described as “knock and listen”. The Gobius sensor consists of a shaker that creates a vibration on the inside of the tank wall. This then sends the signal to an accelerometer, which measures the vibration. The data is then passed to the control module, which calculates the level and shows a reading from empty, 1/4, 1/2, 3/4 to full. This makes it possible to measure the level of any tank, size, liquid or shape. With only one moving part, this makes Gobius a very reliable product.

Gobius is easily installed and will work through Polyethylene 2mm-10mm, Stainless Steel 1mm-3mm, Aluminium 2mm-5mm, Standard Steel 1mm-3mm, and Fibreglass 4mm-8mm, no matter the condition inside the tank. This makes Gobius perfect for sewage tanks, but built for any liquid and tank.

Gobius fuel, water and waste level kits have an additional analogue output so they will connect to your current gauge: VDO, Wema, Teleflex, Faria, Phillippi etc. Any gauge with the ohm range of 10-180ohm, 240-33ohm, and 4-20ohm. Gobius will also interface with NMEA2000, Mercury Vessel View, and other digital computerised displays.

A Gobius Plus version is also available. This is the same as the standard Gobius unit but with the added feature of being able to turn pumps on or off when a level of empty or full is reached (relay required). Gobius is supplied ready for 12v or 24v. 240V on request. Audible and visual alarms can also be fitted and supplied for Gobius and Gobius Plus.

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Pumps built tough for the Marine Industries OVA Pumps are magnetic-drive technologies that keep the motor K completely separated from the liquid end of the pump. No shaft means less moving parts, which increase reliability. KOVA Pumps are made with a leak free glass fibre reinforced polypropylene (GFRPP) water head. This is a tough product with a long life span. Pumping seawater mixed with sand can destroy bronze head pumps in a short amount of time, KOVA pump heads are made of Glass Fiber Reinforced Polypropylene (GFRPP) that will not wear.

KOVA Pumps are used for marine airconditioning and refrigeration cooling, deck wash, chilled water circulation lines, and boost pumps for water makers – in fact, anywhere you need to move volume of water reliably. We are currently working on fully submersible centrifugal magnetic pumps with flow rates at 500Gph and 1000Gph in AC/DC voltage.

KOVA Pumps can also be ordered with a mount deck. This will make a quiet pump quieter. The mount deck will take 100% of the vibration from the operation and make installation easier. Mounting decks can be ordered for the pump only, or with pump and strainer.

We are also suppliers of Arctic Steel full cast stainless steel strainers, the perfect strainer for KOVA Pumps, as they can be attached directly to the pump or it can be mounted separately. The flexibility is yours. Water manifolds can be supplied as well. Give us your requirements and we can supply a complete pump kit for you. KOVA Pumps come in many sizes, flow rates and voltage and are made specifically for the marine industry. When it comes to replacing any other brand or model, call us to ensure compatibility before ordering.

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MAY - AUG 2017

BOAT GOLD COAST

LATEST GENERATION NON-BIOCIDE

FOUL RELEASE COATING T

he 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.

Energy savings are achieved by maintaining smooth underwater hull and propeller surfaces. Presence of fouling on propellers is detrimental to performance. Even low levels of fouling on propeller surfaces are shown to cause efficiency losses of 20%. High levels of fouling cause up to 70% decrease in efficiency.

The marine environment is a tough test for paint, varnish and anti-foul coatings, and shows no mercy to poor quality products. Only the best products will keep topsides bright and the underneath clean from fouling.

Propeller Coat, made in Japan since 1917 from one of the world’s largest and most-respected paint companies, is a non-biocidal foul release coating. With its extra slippery silicon topcoat, it prevents sea life adhering to the propeller.

Propeller Coat is designed to provide ultimate protection against the harmful effect of weed, barnacles and fouling attaching itself to boat propellers, engines and stern gear. It is a transparent silicon-based product, resulting in an ultra slippery, non-stick surface, which weed and fouling find difficult to adhere to. It is referred to as a “foul-release” coating, which means that after initial application, fouling may loosely attach, but is easily and quickly removed by the result of water movement across the treated surface, or by the action of the prop as it turns within the water.

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Propeller Coat is a “foul-release” coating, which means that after initial application, fouling may loosely attach, but is easily and quickly removed by the result of water movement across the treated surface, or by the action of the prop as it turns within the water.

Propeller Coat is suitable for application to all underwater metallic running gear – on stainless, alloy (complete stern legs) and bronze including; propellers, trim tabs, propeller shafts, rudders, prop struts, bow and stern thrusters, underwater lights, transducers, etc.

Propeller Coat after 15 months, washed and put back in the water for another season

Propeller Coat is composed of a yellow primer and a clear silicon topcoat. The product is sold as a DIY box, complete with brushes, gloves, and instructions.

It is easy to apply, once the surfaces to be painted have been prepared. It is available in three sizes – 300ml, 500ml and 1.5 Litre. (300ml is great for yachts, with a single shaft and propeller that covers an area of 0.5 m2; and 500ml is great for larger boats, and covers an area of 0.9 m2) Oz Marine is the dealer of Propeller Coat and provides Australia-wide phone support, and covering thousands of boats in New Zealand, Australia, and Japan.

For COMMERICAL or TRADE operators, Oz Marine can supply with 3-Liter Propeller Coat kits.

For information and pricing: www.ozmarine.com.au Ph: 07 5437 9400

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BOAT GOLD COAST

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

P

ANTIFOULING MAINTENANCE E

ven though you slip your boat every 12 months, just like your engine, you need to check your antifouling every now and then to make sure everything is operating properly.

Hints and tips • Check the hull occasionally for slime. It is normal for this to occur and is easily wiped off.

• It is a good thing to give the hull a wipe occasionally but not with a stiff broom or brush. Use a soft sponge or cloth. Don’t press too hard as you may remove the antifouling and shorten its life.

• If you do need to slip the boat early for any reason, like repairs to the prop or hull, ensure the boat yard gives the underwater hull a light freshwater wash to remove any slime or salt. If slime and salt are left, this will dry hard on the surface and inhibit the antifouling performance when the boat is relaunched.

• The PPG antifouling is a good choice for your antifouling, Ecofleet 290, ABC3 or Ecofleet Alloy. It is chosen for its antifouling performance and for the support provided by the manufacturer and distributors. It is considered the best option for boat owners, so it is advisable to continue using this antifouling at all subsequent slippings.

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.

Phone: 0432 192 014 or visit www.cruisecat.net.

• Check for any growth that looks like a flat, red, round disk. It will settle on antifouling and is easily removed but will cause problems if left alone. You may never see this, but it can turn up unexpectedly in any waterways around Australia; it is called watersipora.

What is “Watersipora”? Watersipora is a fouling organism that is bright orange to red with variable amounts of black, and may be flat or foliose. Watersipora is tolerant to copper-based antifouling biocides, so it facilitates the spread of other invasives by providing a non-toxic surface. It is important to follow the above hints and tips as preventative measures. Should you spot watersipora on your vessel, simply wipe it off. (Here are some photos to help you identify watersipora.)

The PPG antifouling is a good choice for your antifouling, Ecofleet 290, ABC3 or Ecofleet Alloy. It is chosen for its antifouling performance and for the support provided by the manufacturer and distributors. It is considered the best option for boat owners, so it is advisable to continue using this antifouling at all subsequent slippings.

David Harvey is the Australian & New Zealand Maine Manager of PPG Protective & Marine Coatings and has provided an insight into antifouling.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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BOAT JOURNEY

Lifestyle for Hire

LOCAL CRUISE OPERATORS THRIVE

Curlew Escape is a 47ft Bavaria sailing yacht providing an ideal way to relax in paradise.

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he Gold Coast and Moreton Bay areas are spoiled for choice when it comes to breathtaking islands, bays and waterways. So it should not be surprising that they are also home to one of Australia’s busiest charter boat hubs. Interested in learning to sail on the sparkling Broadwater? Looking for a luxurious cruise out to the Tangalooma Wrecks? Or perhaps, just wanting to relax with some great food and music while the multi-million dollar mansions of Gold Coast’s waterways roll by? There are dozens of local charter operators carving out successful markets for themselves.

In contrast to the smaller boat hire operators where you are unlikely to get anything more than the keys and a map, the luxury charter boats are always equipped with expert crews, dedicated to ensuring the service is just as spectacular as the water views. And as you would expect with any luxury market, the sky is the limit when it comes to how much you can spend. It is possible to enjoy an evening on a breathtaking $90 million-dollar motor yacht, but you may need to take out another mortgage on your house to raise the money for the $80,000 bill.

Naturally, there are many more affordable, yet still extravagant, options. Charters for parties, such as hen’s nights and engagements, as well as corporate events, are some of the more common choices. Depending on the number of guests, most party charter prices range from $600 to $1,000 per hour. Learning to sail, or enjoying a cruise on one of the smaller yachts is probably one of the cheapest ways to enjoy chartering with prices ranging from $150 to $300 per hour.

Gold Coast operators declare they were all experiencing healthy growth in their charter businesses, no doubt in part because of the large volume of visiting tourists. “I’d say the business is in really good shape,” enthuses Peter Woodrick, owner of The Lady, a majestic 190-person charter boat. “And if not, it’s only because they don’t know how to market their businesses properly.

There are so many people who live up here and just love the water. Some want to go past the Sundale Bridge and see the rich-and-famous homes. Others want to head up to Tipplers to enjoy the island atmosphere. And some tourists just want to sit back and relax as the gorgeous scenery rolls by.” Peter was a former pub owner who sold his business, then decided to just add water and try his hand at a floating pub.

While the luxury motor yacht charters that cater to large volumes of visitors are lucrative options, carving out a smaller niche can be an equally successful strategy. Terry Naug, owner of Sail Gold Coast, says, “From the sailing point of view, there aren’t a lot who do it – probably just four of us on the Coast. We’ve got a 28-foot mono sailing yacht, and our focus is purely sailing. We do a lot of learning-to-sail sessions, and we teach people how to prepare for charters in the Whitsundays. But we also do recreational sunset cruises and engagement parties. The three-hour learn-to-sail would be our most popular though.”

In Brisbane and Moreton Bay, the charter industry is steady and growing.

However, it also comes with its challenges, mainly due to the area not being as popular a tourist destination as the Gold Coast.

The Lady specialises in weddings & musical-themed cruises for up to 190 people.

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By Narayan Pattison Darren Voigtlander, manager of Brisbane Yacht Charters, explains, “There’s certainly been a constant stream of business during the eight years I’ve been operating. But it’s still a struggle for Brisbane to be seen as a worthwhile destination for international tourists. We come up against that challenge, time and time again. Australia has so much to see that Brisbane is largely forgotten about.”

Industry veteran Ben Stark, manager of Sail Away, echoes similar challenges operating in Moreton Bay, “I started off with one leased boat back in 1994, and built it up to the six boats we have now – three charters and three bares. Moreton Bay is pretty tough to work in though. We focus on the learning-to-sail market. But there are so many other activities competing for tourists’ attention. I find most of our business comes from older people getting into it – who are financially stable, in their 50s, and have always dreamt of learning to sail.”

The rapidly growing Chinese tourism market has provided many opportunities for those charter businesses that are correctly positioned to cater for them. Brisbane River & Moreton Bay Cruises sales manager, Darby Nash, explains, “Wealthy Chinese clients like the prestige of luxury yachts, and we have arranged several charters for them in Brisbane and the Gold Coast. However, there is a language and cultural understanding for which you need to be equipped.”

Many charter operators conducting business with Chinese tourists generally prefer shorter one- to two-hour cruises. They also prefer to have Chinesespeaking guides, which remain a challenge for many of them, especially for the more technical learning-to-sail market.

While one would expect foreign tourists to be the main clients of the charter businesses, operators disclose that the majority are actually ‘locals’. “The bulk of our business comes from locals living within 200 km of the Gold Coast,” explains Steve Buckley, who operates Sailing in Paradise. “The locals are generally looking to do something different. They charter a boat on the Gold Coast to see the pristine beaches, or a luxury catamaran sailing over the crystal clear waters. However, we do also get a lot of people coming up from Sydney and Melbourne for hen’s nights, especially. Our boat can take up to 30 people, and our boat’s quite open, so everyone can see each other which gives it a really social and relaxed atmosphere.”

It is not surprising that even locals are consistently surprised at the natural beauty on offer in the region’s abundant marine parks. “We often get feedback from interstate people, either visiting or who have recently moved here, on how beautiful the bay is. The Brisbane River has a wonderful backdrop and is undeniably the highlight of the city, and the waterways of the Gold Coast are postcard pretty,” relates Darby Nash.

It is estimated that up to 70% of local Gold Coasters have not been out on Moreton Bay. This offers plenty of room left for growth.

The charter boat businesses are looking forward to a growing future for the industry in the Moreton Bay and Gold Coast regions. Huge international events,

Sail Gold Coast focuses on learning to sail and can carry up to 7 people on its 28ft yacht.

MAY - AUG 2017

Sailing in Paradise provides a luxury catamaran for up to 30 people to enjoy the Gold Coast’s gorgeous waterways.

like the 2018 Commonwealth Games, and infrastructure development are always considered boons for their business. Each operator has opinions and suggestions on how the charter boat industry can improve even more.

Peter Woodrick opines that the proposed international shipping terminal will bring more business to the Gold Coast. “I think the shipping terminal would be great, and it would bring more people and business to the Gold Coast,” he says. “People are denying it, but it will come. I think it’s the best thing for the Gold Coast. Our country is the most underpopulated island in the world. The new terminal would be good for everyone. Visitors would spend their money when they get off the boats and they’d get to see the best spot in Australia.”

While infrastructure development is identified by some operators as a key to improving tourism on the Gold Coast, increased government focus and spending on marketing is seen as important for the growth of Brisbane tourism. “Brisbane just isn’t an internationally recognised tourist destination yet,” says Terry Naug. “Overseas people know about the Gold Coast, Byron Bay and Noosa, but Brisbane and Moreton Bay are still very underdeveloped and not sold well. Local councils are trying their best. But they are too many and they are too fractured to be able to work effectively together to promote it as a tourist destination.”

Darby Nash pinpoints the need to improve government regulation to allow Brisbane to better serve the demands of the market, and to fill the gaps. “The Brisbane CBD area needs greater access for commercial vessels to pull into pontoons to allow the market to continue to grow. On the Gold Coast, there is a gap between budget boats and high-end luxury vessels. We often have clients travel up to Moreton Bay to take a charter because the right vessel for them is not on the Gold Coast.”

Although the charter market is well established locally, there are still lessons we can take from other markets, such as Sydney. “Brisbane should look to Sydney to see the potential number of vessels that can operate commercially,” explains Darby Nash. The huge numbers of international tourists and iconic beauty of Sydney Harbour make it a very busy charter market, yet it runs very smoothly.

And as surprising as it sounds, adopting NSW’s daylight savings may have knock-on benefits for the local charter market. Ben Stark points out the advatage of later sunset timing in NSW. “You can’t beat a twilight sailing charter in Sydney because someone can get off from work and be at the marina at 5pm, and still get three hours of sailing before dark, which is just not something we’re about to do up here.”

But if there is one thing all the charter operators agreed the Gold Coast has over any other market, it is the weather. You cannot beat 300 days of sunshine!

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

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BOAT GUIDE LEGAL

LEGA L ISSUES FOR L A RGER R ECR E ATIONA L V ESSELS

By John Kavanagh, MER - Director of Legal Solutions

luxury powerboat, and yet no additional training or licensing is required.

An awareness of safe speed, keeping a proper lookout, and ship handling in confined waters, are all matters that take on greater significance as a vessel becomes larger, and could result in incidents and accidents that would not have occurred in a smaller vessel.

Keeping a proper lookout

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ongratulations! You’ve made it! One of your life’s ambitions has been achieved and you are now the proud owner of a well-appointed powerboat. It is 60 feet of sleek, sea-going might and power. You couldn’t be more chuffed!

But before you get carried away and take that boat for a spin, there are a few issues in stepping up from a smaller boat to a larger boat that you might like to consider before fully opening the throttle.

Licensing There was a policy proposal some years ago to require recreational boat owners of greater than 15 metres in length to undertake additional training and obtain a more advanced licence than the Recreational Marine Drivers Licence (RMDL).

The policy proposal never made it into law, but the rationale for the policy remains sound; that is, there are additional risks associated with larger recreational vessels. It almost goes without saying that the skills required for operating a 4m tinny are significantly different to operating a 15m

The collision regulations require a proper lookout by sight and sound, as well as all available means appropriate to the prevailing circumstances and conditions. Any well-equipped vessel will have a few gadgets and electronic devices to assist the discerning mariner with their lookout obligation.

A RADAR, chart plotter, maybe even an AIS transceiver, will likely be fitted.

The temptation for many new boat owners is to operate their vessel as if it is akin to a motor vehicle, and focus on looking out the front of the vessel, particularly when operating on the plane. But the obligation is to keep an all-round 360-degree lookout at all times. That is because a risk of collision may exist even from unexpected quarters, such as from the side or astern. We have acted for a number of unfortunate clients who have been involved in collisions who never saw the other vessel until collision was imminent, and avoiding action was unsuccessful.

The new owner must be aware of the blind spots (such as window frames) and move around the vessel regularly to ensure full situational awareness. If you are tied to the conning station

and cannot move around, have one of your crew or companions assist you with keeping an allround lookout by looking astern and around any obstructions to your vision.

RADAR (Radio Detection and Ranging) is a useful tool, but be aware of its limitations. RADAR will also have blind spots or areas of reduced performance, and you should be familiar with those areas for your vessel. RADAR also has limitations on performance in poor weather, and is not good at detecting objects with a poor RADAR signature, such as small vessels made from wood or fibreglass. Small tenders, yachts, windsurfers, surf skis and the like are not likely to be picked up by your RADAR at all.

And perhaps most importantly, your RADAR will not assist you with keeping a proper lookout if it is not turned on, properly tuned, and set to the correct range scale.

Failure to keep a proper lookout might result in charges being laid under the Queensland marine safety act for failing to operate a vessel safely.

Obligations at anchor Obligations at anchor are often misunderstood.

Anchoring your vessel does not relieve you of many of your obligations under the collision regulations. It is not like parking your car and turning off the engine. Your vessel is still in a seaway, and at risk of collision. Your vessel is also subject to the action of wind, wave, and tide, and is at risk of dragging anchor.

Consequently, your obligations to keep a proper lookout, and to take action to avoid collision,

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

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

MAY - AUG 2017

Anchoring your vessel does not relieve you of many of your obligations under the collision regulations…Your vessel is still in a seaway, and at risk of collision.

Photos by Fairline Yachts

continue to apply when you are at anchor. The law is to the effect that the master’s obligation is to start the engines, lift the anchor, get underway, and then get out of the way of a vessel that is going to collide with you. Failure to do so is potentially a breach of your general safety obligation to operate your vessel safely.

to be over that alcohol limit. While that may be unlikely for recreational vessels, we are aware of commercial masters that have been breathtested and charged with alcohol-related offences while their vessels were lying safely at anchor.

One consequence of these ongoing obligations while at anchor relates to the responsible use of alcohol. At least one person on board should remain under the 0.05 alcohol limit, so as to be able to take effective action to avoid collision or to respond to any other kind of emergency, such as a fire. Opinions vary on the issue, but it is possible that the master of the vessel at anchor might be breath-tested and charged if found

You will of course have insured your new pride and joy with a reputable insurer. But being a prudent person, you have probably also taken asset protection and taxation advice from your professional advisors. They may have recommended that your vessel be owned by a corporate trustee in some kind of trust structure.

Insurance

Be aware that the fact of corporate ownership will mean that the contract of insurance will

be issued under the Marine Insurance Act 1909, rather than the more familiar Insurance Contracts Act 1984. The difference in the legal regimes is significant and can result in an insurance claim being declined unless you are familiar with the requirements.

Conclusion We certainly do not want to dampen your enthusiasm for your new vessel. But be aware that a step up in size and sophistication of your vessel will change your risk profile, and that may have some legal consequences. Get familiar with your vessel, improve your skills, be aware of your obligations, and as always, be safe on the water.

New mooring fees bringing boaties back to

Couran Cove Couran Cove marina, where they can tie up their vessels for a few hours or an entire day, or even stay a little longer. "Couran Cove Island Resort has a very special place in the hearts of so many people," he declares. "We want to send a message to everyone enjoying time on the Broadwater that they are very welcome here, and that we value their patronage. Now, every cent of your marina fee – which is halved for mid-week visits – can be redeemed in full at any of our resort outlets.”

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fresh new wave of boaties are cruising in to Couran Cove Island Resort to enjoy the funfilled family atmosphere and regular activities on offer at one of the Gold Coast’s most iconic destinations.

The influx has been sparked by a novel new marina pricing structure that rewards boating families with ‘fully redeemable vouchers’ for use throughout the South Stradbroke Island resort’s unique dining destinations, coffee shop and sports bar.

Resort CEO Matt Parsons says the vouchers effectively deliver free mooring for boaties at BOATGOLDCOAST.COM. AU

Couran Cove Island Resort - also ideal for functions and conferences - features award-winning dining destinations where you can enjoy cosmopolitan cuisine by the two resort swimming pools, or on the boardwalk and deck overlooking luxury motor yachts berthed in the protected marina.

Visitors can do as much or as little as they like – escape from the hustle and bustle and explore South Stradbroke Island's pristine 22km beach and beautiful bushland, get up close and personal with the very friendly wallabies and dolphins, or just relax and be inspired by

the serenity of nature from the balcony of your waterfront apartment or villa.

"We have a vast array of free activities and entertainment on offer, including a fantastic sports playground with everything from tennis to basketball, and even a running track, as well as kayaking and stand-up paddle-boarding in our lagoon,” says Matt.

"And if you are inspired by technology, you'll just love being able to experience a whole new world of fun at Virtual World where we have the world's best golf simulators, state-of-the-art sports simulators offering everything from baseball and basketball to hockey and football, awe-inspiring Virtual Reality experiences, and Australia's fastest baseball pitching machine.”

Couran Cove also partners with adventure operators for water sports including jet ski and tube rides, bicycle hire, scenic flights, 4WD tours, sand-boarding, and even dune buggy tours.

Play for a day or stay for a whole week - every second of every day at Couran Cove Island Resort is time well spent. www.courancove.com.au

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BOAT GOLD COAST

Drop anchor soon at Abell Point Marina

S

ince becoming the first marina in the world to attain the 5 Gold Anchor global marina accreditation in 2016, Abell Point’s commitment to providing a first-class marina experience for all boaties is reaffirmed. With exciting new marina developments scheduled for 2017, this really is the year to drop anchor at Abell Point Marina, and stay, play, explore.

The Parkway The Abell Point Parkway is a 2.5-hectares private parkland being developed to create a leisure hub within the marina precinct for both marina guests and the wider Whitsunday community to enjoy. The parkway, when complete, will boast an area of lush parkland with stunning views of the marina precinct, including a 35m round splash park with water fountain play area, an intimate outdoor space for weddings, an open area for hosting concerts and events, seating and relaxation areas, a mobile café, and a beach area designed for soaking up the marina atmosphere.

The Ocean Club Launched in April 2017 is the two-story floating pontoon office (Ocean Club) designed to be reminiscent of a superyacht. Ocean Club boasts twelve first class private en-suite bathrooms and a fully equipped laundry area on the first floor, while the second floor provides a fully serviced customer service lounge with check-in facilities and an exclusive waterfront sundeck area offering unrivalled marina views. Ocean Club is located on Q arm, allowing for better service and facilities access for guests berthed in our south marina. The unique sundeck hosts an exclusive customer lounge offering a range

of complimentary services such as hot and cold beverages, Wifi, and daily newspapers in a unique marina setting. Customers can relax with views over the marina while socialising with friends and having a cool drink at sunset. Ocean Club provides a superb addition to the marina’s already first-class facilities.

Dining at Hemingway’s Abell Point Marina purchased the restaurant in the south village, and after a period of refurbishment, it was launched in April as Hemingway’s. Focusing on a coastal chic, Hamptons-style décor, and serving up the best in modern Australian cuisine, Hemingway’s add that touch of class to the marina’s dining

options. Overlooking the south marina village and the dedicated superyacht arm, Hemingway’s provide guests with the perfect place for lunch, dinner and cocktails at sunset. With the restaurant menu endorsed by celebrity chef Matt Golinski, this new development offer guests and visitors another reason to visit and extend their stay at Abell Point Marina.

Building on the ever-popular Blue Carpet Treatment and adding to the range of concierge services is a key focus on Abell Point Marina. If you are cruising up the coast or looking to relocate to the Whitsundays for a few months, drop anchor at Abell Point and let them take the hassle out of boating.

QUICK TIPS

SALES

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h e most important things you have on a powerboat – aside from your engine(s) – are your batteries. The most crucial aspect of understanding your power is to know how much you use in a given timeframe, and how long it will take to restore your battery power to full capacity. There are a couple of easy ways to maintain your power.

First thing is to know how to monitor the power you have available. For example, if you have 100 amps of battery, fifty percent is useable and fifty is to maintain voltage. It is always wise to have a system that has a cut-off voltage built in. A cut-off of 12.2 volts is great.

Next is to know how long it will take to restore full power. It is also a very handy way to be sure you do not get in trouble while enjoying your recreational time. It is recommend that you put your system under the most extreme situations at home or at the marina to understand just how much time you can run your equipment before you have no power available. Recharging to full capacity will allow you full understanding of turnaround time in extreme conditions.

For more in-depth information regarding battery maintenance, feel free to contact the Battery Central sales team at 1300 008 299.

Happy boating!

Product - SeaMaster GOLD Description - Maintenance-free marine battery with superior starting power and reserve capacity Application - For heavy-duty marine use.

Features - Full 24 Months Warranty. Premium, extra heavy duty. Fully sealed cover design that minimizes water/electrolyte evaporation or leakage. Calcium expanded plates for superior grid strength against corrosion and overcharging. EXG Technology.

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BOAT GOLD COAST

Luxur y Sui t ed t o Aus tralian Boaties

JEANNEAU INBOARD POWER BOATS

J

eanneau is forging ahead in the Australian powerboat market. With their history dating back to 1957, they have become a benchmark for quality cruising and pleasure boats that people admire and wish to own throughout the world. They use state of the art technologies to build their boats, and pay careful attention to functionality, security, and respect for nature.

For Australians who take to the waters often, Jeanneau powerboats are safe and seaworthy without compromise – strong and sturdy in all types of weather, comfortable while cruising, stable when the conditions test them, and always pleasant at port. Jeanneau boats also have lovely beautiful fluid lines.

Jeanneau have three distinct series across their inboard powerboats range, including NC, LEADER and VELASCO. Jeanneau NC Series The most popular NC Series are ideally suited to the South East Queensland cruising lifestyle. Entirely open to the exterior, the NC concept incorporates the very latest innovations to improve quality of life on board and distribution of space. With an elegant silhouette and a contemporary design, the NC line offers a new vision of the inboard family powerboat, from 9 to 14 metres, that is both secure and stylish.

JEANNEAU NC 9 Incorporating all the qualities that have made the NC11 a success, the new NC9 (LOA: 9.4m) perfectly demonstrates the spirit of the line in a more compact model. Experience life at sea in a contemporary atmosphere, enjoy absolute comfort on board and play with space in a modular design. All these pleasures combined in the NC9! A perfect synthesis of the NC concept, the new NC9 is a revelation. The Jeanneau NC 9 is suited perfectly to the South East Queensland cruising lifestyle with the feel of an apartment on the water, with unparalleled sea views. They are a delight to manoeuvre, and handle the rough conditions of Moreton Bay and beyond comfortably. They are sensational as a day boat for exploring the islands, with the boat easily positioned into shallow water to allow ease of getting on and off. Further, they are versatile to have on weekends away, being a self-contained unit on the water. Northside Marine has a Jeanneau NC 9 in stock ready for inspection. So why not check out the ‘floating apartment’ for yourself. You will be pleasantly surprised you did.

JEANNEAU NC 11 Designed by Garroni and Premorel Concept, the NC11 (LOA: 11.15m) is a totally new take on space and life aboard. Contemporary elegance is complemented by total transparency and seamless space. The modular

BOATGOLDCOAST.COM. AU

internal features are restrained and comfortable: cabins, huge bathroom, saloon, storage and more. Sterndrive transmission and carefullychosen engine power are responsible design features. A sophisticated product that will appeal to true connoisseurs. A panoramic view and a fully equipped helm station make coastal cruising easy and enjoyable. Z-drive twin engines make it even better. Bright natural lighting and excellent ventilation bring you closer to the elements.

JEANNEAU NC 14 The success of the new NC line has made an impact in the world of Jeanneau. The original driving spirit behind the concept, ‘an apartment on the water, with a terrace and a sea view’, has been perfectly distilled into the NC 9 and NC 11, resulting in real enthusiasm for these ‘new’ boats. On the heels of this success, Jeanneau brought the concept to the new NC 14 (LOA: 13.93m) aboard where luxurious elegance and comfort are matched by innovation.

With a remarkable design by Camillo and Vittorio Garroni, the NC 14 is assertive, with pure lines, sober volumes, and an unforgettable contemporary style. Daytime living spaces, including a dining area and a very attractive galley, are arranged around a very spacious deck saloon and feature a floor plan designed on a single level. Accessible by a comfortable corridor, the evening living spaces offer surprising volume in the cabins, the head and shower compartments, and a true walk-in closet.

Jeanneau LEADER series Synonymous with elegance, luxury and high performance, LEADER powerboats are natural standouts. Their sporty, distinguished silhouettes are evocative of the LEADER experience, a world of refined comfort built upon the time-honoured values of savoir-faire, of the drive to excel and to succeed.

Unforgettable adventures await you aboard a LEADER! Their contemporary style invites relaxation.

Whether it’s a comfortable day boat you are after, or a luxury cruiser to cruise the East Coast of Australia, LEADER have 8 models in the range, from 30- to 46-foot. There is sure to be a LEADER model to appease one’s boating desire.

Jeanneau VELASCO series The VELASCO line is a flybridge inboard powerboat with a flattering design distinguished by an innovative layout and use of space on the interior and on the exterior, featuring an unprecedented level of comfort for family cruising. Designed by the naval architecture firm of T. Castro Design, elegant hull lines contribute to fuel efficiency and optimise seakeeping at speeds of 15 to 28 knots. Innovations in terms of comfort

and use of space combine for a totally new approach to life aboard a flybridge motor yacht. With two models VELASCO 37F (37 foot - 11.4m) and Velasco 43F (43 foot - 13.4m), Jeanneau redefines the modern flybridge power cruiser – dedicated to family fun on the water.

Northside Marine is the Queensland Dealer of Jeanneau inboard powerboats. With over 50 years of experience in the boating game, they are certainly able to assist you.

For further information on the Jeanneau Inboard Power Boat range, contact David Choveaux at Northside Marine on (07) 32658046, visit the showroom at 2294 Sandgate Rd, Boondall, Qld, 4034 (only 15mins North of the Brisbane Airport), or check the range out online at www.nsmarine.com.au.

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BOAT PROTOCOL

SO, YOU'RE IN CHARGE Caroline Strainig at the helm of a Catalina 32 sailing yacht

Would you be able to take over as skipper in an emergency?

CAROLINE STRAINIG finds more than a few crew would fall far short of the mark. Take our spot quiz and see how you and/or your crew would fare.

“Splash!” The sound of my husband going overboard was hard to miss.

“Don’t worry. He jumps in often to test my skills when he thinks conditions are safe,” I reassured the other couple on board calmly. “He wants to be sure I can rescue him if he does go overboard by accident. Can someone keep pointing to him while I turn the boat around and brief you on what to do?”

Thankfully, I never needed to rescue my husband in an emergency, although he did fall overboard once by accident when we were gunkholing up a creek. Sometimes, in the wee hours when I dwell on our divorce, I wish I had not rescued him on that occasion. (But that is another story over a few drinks with my girlfriends!)

That was many years ago, but his approach to safety has stayed with me. My then-husband was an experienced single-handed offshore sailor and navigator. It would have been all too easy to leave anything remotely hard to him and just be crew.

However, there were times when I was on deck by myself and had to be competent to manage. Apart from the man overboard drills, he used to give me pop quizzes, asking me things like: “Do you know where you are now?” which often involved looking on a chart because we had no GPS back then.

Does this ring any bells with you? Do you do that with your crew? Or, if you are crew, does your skipper do that with you? If so, you may be in the minority or at the very least an underwhelming majority. Talking to couples candidly about their knowledge while researching this article, I discovered a surprising lack of knowledge, especially when the crew was the female partner of the skipper.

One woman in her 60s, whose partner had owned boats ever since she could remember, said she would not even know which side of a channel marker to go on, let alone make a radio call for help. They had boated together for years and her husband had already had one heart attack, thankfully ashore.

So, what are the essentials you need to know, and how can you learn them?

Obviously, you can train your crew yourself, as my husband did with me. You should also give anyone 68

new on your boat an in-depth safety briefing, and as an added safety precaution mount an emergency checklist in a prominent location. However, if it is your partner, a boat licence course is a good idea to ensure marital bliss is not compromised – because it can be hard teaching someone close to you. Brisbane Coast Guard takes it a step further, recommending anyone remotely likely to be left in charge to sign up to a boat licence course.

Remember the boat safety campaign, “You’re the skipper - you’re responsible”? By law, the bottom line is that the skipper is responsible. Just like the regular skipper, the fall-back skipper should be licensed, know how to drive the vessel, know the rules of the sea-road, and be responsible for passenger safety.

It does not have to be an emergency situation before a crew member has to take over sometimes. On one occasion, I was handed the helm at short notice when the skipper had been drinking and the Water Police were approaching. Another was on an offshore passage when the skipper decided to retire below with a bottle of whisky, and only surfaced days later.

Back to the ideal scenario – getting some training and ideally your boat licence or an equivalent sail-training qualification. What is Plan B if you have not done that?

Brisbane Coast Guard media officer Harvey Shore says crew should only take over as skipper if they are competent to do so. If they are not, they should immediately take these five actions, and skippers should brief their novice crew-cum-passengers accordingly: 1. Stop the vessel by either dropping the sail or putting throttles to neutral, and stopping the motor.

2. Drop the anchor.

3. Get everyone to put on lifejackets.

4. Establish the vessel’s exact location by using local knowledge, or the GPS chart plotter, or by identifying landmarks.

5. Call for help, either by radioing Coast Guard on VHS Channel 16, or by dialling 000 on a mobile phone and asking for Water Police.

The Coast Guard also recommends every boat should be equipped with a VHF radio because phone reception can be unreliable. Crew should obviously be taught how to use the radio as back-up. Radios should be tuned to Channel 16, the emergency frequency, and 73, the general communications channel. The Coast Guard also monitors channels 21, 67 and 81.

For added peace of mind, Mr Shore says boat owners can join the Coast Guard’s marine-assist program, which is like an on-water RACQ. Coast Guard volunteers are trained in first-aid, so they are well equipped to deal with medical emergencies.

“Ah, well, chances are nothing will happen to us,” I can hear you say as you read this. Sadly, safety is not something that only “other” people need to worry about. Over the past five years, the Brisbane Coast Guard has been called out thousands – yes, thousands – of times to rescue stranded skippers and their passengers in our local waters. In six of these, the skipper was also disabled because of a medical emergency. While we all hope every outing will be idyllic, the reality is that accidents can happen, so it pays to be prepared. Safety may not be sexy, but it is something we all need to be aware of.

SPOT QUIZ FOR CREW MEMBERS Can you start and drive the boat by yourself?

Can you anchor the boat by yourself?

Can you take down the sails by yourself, if there are any?

Do you know the basic sea-road rules, i.e. which side to pass a channel marker on and which side to pass an oncoming boat?

Can you use the radio and do you know what channel to make an emergency call on?

Do you know where the lifejackets, flares and first-aid kit are?

Could you accurately find out where you are if something went wrong?

Could you perform a MOB rescue reliably if your skipper went overboard?* Could you ensure the safety of other crew members?

Do you have first aid and CPR training in case something happens to the skipper?

If you scored less than nine out of ten, it might be worth investing a little time in training before heading out on the water again with your partner. Or, as one bright spark commented after taking the quiz, checking on your partner’s life insurance!

TIP: Please do not put your crew to the test by just jumping overboard; it is not safe. Practice the drill first with a fender. And if you do use a person, do it in a safe anchorage where the MOB can easily swim to shore, preferably under expert instruction.

MAY - AUG 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

DON’T BUY A LEMON Benefits of a marine survey

A marine survey is the detailed inspection, survey or examination of a marine vessel conducted by a certified marine surveyor in order to assess, monitor and report on the condition of the vessel and the products on them. A survey typically includes the structure, machinery and equipment (navigational, safety, radio, etc.), and general condition of a vessel. The survey is also used to determine if the vessel is safe in conditions for which it was designed, and what maintenance and repairs are required, or are likely to be required in the future.

In this interview with accredited yacht and small ship surveyor NICHOLAS J LOCKYER, he explains the basics and benefits of a professional marine survey for either the owner or the prospective buyer.

When should one hire a marine surveyor?

As soon as you decide to make an offer or go to contract, a marine surveyor should be engaged and any offer should be made ‘subject to a satisfactory survey’. You should only engage surveyors who are members of the Marine Surveyors Association or the International Institute of Marine Surveying (IIMS), as members are vetted for knowledge, experience and competency. There are courses conducted by the IIMS and some specialist surveying courses in Launceston, but these are generally for larger ships and cargo.

It is advised that before engaging a surveyor, ask the seller when the engines was last serviced and collect paperwork verifying maintenance records and servicing for machinery, rigging, sails and electronics.

Who must commission the surveyor?

In most cases, the survey is commissioned by the intending purchaser if it is a pre-purchase report, or by the owner if it is for insurance renewal. On some occasions, the owner of a boat may commission a report prior to going to the market so he is aware of any issues that might affect the sale.

What are the benefits of a professional marine survey?

Just as an RACQ inspection of a second-hand vehicle provides you with an independent report, a professional marine survey is essential. Unlike motor vehicles, every boat is very different. A third-party unbiased inspection will provide the facts to allow a considered opinion.

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How should the client prepare for the survey?

Clean the boat thoroughly and remove all personal and extraneous items so the surveyor can make a thorough inspection.

What is included in the inspection?

A professional surveyor will inspect all aspects of the boat that he can access without destructive testing or the removal of fixed parts. Some surveyors may specialise in doing just mechanical or electrical inspections, and some will do the ‘whole of ship’.

The time needed to conduct a marine survey depends on many factors. Even smaller boats can sometimes take as long as a vessel twice its size, as it may have more complex systems or can be more difficult to access. Generally, it will take a full day to inspect and report on a typical 40’ yacht or powerboat.

Most surveyors prefer to undertake their work unhindered. They meet with their client towards the end so a synopsis of their findings can be given, rather than providing a running commentary, which can complicate and extend the surveyor's work.

The professional surveyor will ask many questions in order to determine past use and operation, which will have a profound effect on the current condition.

Is there a survey report?

Most professional surveyors will email a secure report in PDF which is preferred by most banks, and insurance companies. Reports are prepared for the party that commissions them, but remains the property of the surveyor. Survey reports for some inspections done for pre-auction or pre-sales use can be prepared and issued to multiple parties, but only with the consent of the surveyor who holds the copyright. A professional surveyor should only discuss his findings with the contracting party, unless instructed otherwise.

Will the surveyor inspect any repairs undertaken because of the survey?

It is not uncommon for the surveyor to inspect any repairs identified in his inspection so that the report can be re-issued without a list of defects that are no longer evident.

Should a buyer fear the list of problems with a used boat?

Not necessarily. Every boat, even a new one can have issues that need to be considered. Not having all the facts is what is most to be feared. Always seek professional advice before you make a decision. If you are unsure, ask questions.

Does the marine survey usually give the buyer advice to buy or not to buy?

A professional surveyor should only ever provide information to the client so he or she can make a decision based on all relevant facts.

Do surveyors determine the value of the boat?

Surveyors should only include a valuation statement if they are competent to do so, and only if requested, and for an additional fee. Most surveyors will avoid doing valuations, as this is a specialist’s field.

How are fees charged?

Surveyor's fees vary but most are based on a per-linear-foot basis or a formula based on length x width. If the job is complex and involves travel, the fees may be charged on a per day basis.

Professional fees are similar to those charged by accountants and lawyers.

What are common problems of boats?

• Most of the problems found in used boats occur as a result of lack of use and maintenance rather than over-use.

• Osmotic blistering can be found just after the vessel is lifted and washed and is more prevalent in boats built prior to 1990. However, just because the boat has some blistering does not mean it has structural issues and should not be the only reason for not buying a boat.

• Because most fibreglass boats use a polyester resin matrix (which is brittle), cracking is the most common issue.

• Galvanic corrosion describes the wasting of a metal that gives up its electrons to protect a more ‘noble’ metal. Gold sits at the top of the Scale of Nobility while zinc is almost at the bottom, so zinc is used as a sacrificial anode to protect bronze, stainless steel and other alloys that sit above it on the scale. (Electrolysis, on the other hand, refers to impressed current breaking down compounds, such as water turning to hydrogen and oxygen.)

• Paint adhesion issues are common and caused by poultice and galvanic corrosion because of poor preparation prior to painting or design/ construction shortcomings by using dissimilar metals in close proximity.

Nicholas J. Lockyer is an accredited class 1A yacht and small ship surveyor (up to 40 metres) with the Marine Surveyors Association (Australia) and an associate member of the International Institute of Marine Surveying.

MAY - AUG 2017

BOAT OPINION

in 2016, either EU or USA certification will get an engine past Customs Clearance.

Clean engines may even open more freshwater boating, like Lake Lenthalls and Wivenhoe, which were opened up to clean engines only in recent years.

Some in the marine industry fear the changes and are asking for more time. Given it has been on the cards since 2005 and AS1799 boat-building standard was updated in 2009 for heavier clean outboards, it is hard to justify further delays.

All of the seven main outboard companies all have a full range of clean compliant engines. No one gets a competitive advantage from these laws. That is not to say we will not see market change. Boaties who enjoy the advantage of low-weight two strokes may take a green leap forward, bypass four-strokes and go directly to the convenience and weight advantages of electric outboards, like Torqeedo.

An update on AUSTRALIAN EMISSIONS S TA N DA R D S

There is also the occasional rumour that existing carby two-strokes will be banned. Banning what are already on boats was never on the agenda. Used two-strokes will still be freely sold for years to come, although I fear they will lose a lot in resale value. No one can tell me how long parts will be available.

By Gary Fooks

T

he news about outboard emissions laws have all gone a bit quiet from Canberra since January 2017. But, it turns out that this duck is paddling furiously. The Department of Environment and Energy is still confident that the Bill (that seeks to “provide the overall powers for the Minister responsible for the Environment to set emission standards for non-road spark ignition engines and equipment [NRSIEE]”) will be introduced in May and passed in August, with the detailed regulations to follow.

But do not panic. The law will not be effective until 1 July 2018. After that, only four-stroke and direct-

injection marine engines will have certified low emissions and can be imported. Dealers will have a year to clear old stock.

The additional paperwork requirements will make personal imports harder to arrange, so expect to see fewer grey market imports, including boats with an engine or any standalone petrol engine.

The original plan was to follow the world’s toughest standard, the USA EPA. But with the EU standards harmonizing with the US standards

If you have not been following this story closely, the work started in 2005 to reduce the very high emissions on non-road engines, from lawn mowers to outboards. A carby two-stroke has about eleven times the emissions of the equivalent four-stroke or DI two-stroke. A two-stroke mower has forty times the emissions of a car. I do not even want to see the numbers for a 60hp two-stroke outboard. Clearly, setting the standards was inevitable.

It has been a long time coming.

View Update Paper: http://bit.ly/2olKwqJ

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BOAT COMMUNITY

ART

and OCEAN

e is an Australian-born artist whose name literally H speaks a lot about his work and life. Radha Pederson’s first name is of Vaishnava Hindu tradition, a

tradition that acknowledges the self as spirit, not mater; eternal, not temporary. His surname is Dutch, but his actual bloodline is Norwegian. Both Netherlands and Norway are steeped in seafaring heritage.

Combined, you have Radha Pedersen, the artist, the sailor and the Vaishnava Hindu who describes his current work as “using the narrative setting of life on the ocean to discuss our inherent, spiritual need for freedom, and where that fits in our relationship with the world”.

Growing up on acreage in the Tweed Hinterland, Radha’s parents instilled within him an appreciation of nature and respect for all living creatures. Living so close to the beaches of the Gold Coast and the

By Pam Pederson

wonderful water playground of Moreton Bay, the ocean also became an intrinsic part of his life. “Surfing with my brothers and sailing with my grandparents were two things in my childhood that really put the salt in my veins, as you could say.”

As he began to create art, this relationship with nature shone through. But it did not stop with his art. In 2008, he and his wife-to-be, Pam, bought a Hartley 16 for their honeymoon, which they sailed around Moreton Bay for six years. They upgraded to an S&S Defiance 30, to live and cruise on. “In 2015, we took off for eight months and sailed up to the Whitsundays and back, taking our time and soaking it all in, which was really something special to do.”

It was on this cruise that Radha began to concentrate on the ocean as his creative setting. “I love being

By Gary Fooks on the ocean surrounded by nature and simplicity, away from the craziness of modern life. It helps me to step back, remember who I am, who others are, and reflect on life. I think this stepping back is something most, if not all boaties have in common.”

This is the freedom and relationship that Radha’s work explores.

Having received a Regional Arts Development Fund grant, Radha will be creating a new body of work – a collection of limited edition silver sculptures inspired by the Japanese art form of Netsuke. This new collection, titled A Drop in The Ocean, will be premiering at the Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show, where Radha will also be demonstrating his wood carving skills. www.radhapedersen.com.au.

A STEP TO TACKLE THE MARINE DEBRIS PROBLEM debris – all sorts of rubbish that people simply throw away. In 2016, the image of a turtle entangled in more than 20 fishing lines posted on social media prompted a community action to clean up the Gold Coast Seaway. Sea World reported that in January this year, three turtles needed to be rescued due to fishing line entanglement, one of them found in the Seaway.

“Marine debris is a huge economic and environmental problem globally and is largely present on the Gold Coast, with the Gold Coast Seaway having the highest incidence of fishing debris in an urban area in Australia,” states the Gold Coast Marine Debris Network on its online page.

diver jumps into the Seaway. His dive buddy A follows suit. A few metres into the descent, a nature show begins. The spectacular marine life

excites the divers, with their eyes out for familiar locals and maybe some special visitors. It is almost perfect…until divers begin to see strange strands and blobs mingling with sea life. On the ocean bed, the divers find more objects – not rocks or grass, nor any type of marine life for that matter.

While the Seaway teems with amazing marine animals, it also hosts significant amount of marine 74

In March this year, a group of committed locals have come together to tackle the scourge of littered fishing line on the Gold Coast, launching the Tackle Bin Project. This is the first project for the newly formed Gold Coast Marine Debris Network, and the first in Queensland to be using this unique bin design. It has been made possible by funding from the Sea World Research and Recue Foundation, Healthy Land and Water, and the Gold Coast Waterways Authority.

The project involves locals to adopt one of thirteen specially designed bins, which are made in Australia of 100% recycled materials. The bins are designed to keep unwanted fishing tackle secure and allow it to be disposed of safely. They also serve to educate anglers and the wider community about the importance of correctly disposing fishing waste.

“We have tried to be careful to ensure that the message isn’t sent to blame fishermen, but instead, to educate them about the effects that poorly discarded line may have on wildlife – something they may not have thought about or realised,” clarifies Kellie Lindsay, coordinator of the Gold Coast Marine Debris Network. “The bins are serviced by volunteers who clean and audit the bins. At first this will be done weekly and will be adjusted as necessary. We will take pictures of what we have found in the bins and use data we have collected.”

The project’s key message is that although fishing line debris can cause harm to wildlife, this problem can be easily prevented by ensuring that unwanted fishing line, hooks and used bait bags go into a bin.

The project also seeks the help of the community to help spread the message, take photos of the bins being used, and spread it around on social media.

The Tackle Bin Project is testament to the commitment of the Gold Coast community to address the formidable challenge of cleaning up the waterways – one step at a time. (R. Tenefrancia) For updates: Facebook.com/tackle bin project (Gold Coast) What do you think of this project? Let us know your thoughts. Email editor@boatgoldcoast.com.au.

MAY - AUG 2017

BOAT GOLD COAST

SKIPPER YOUR OWN

BOAT IN FRANCE

Mediterranean coast, famous for its wildlife, its white horses, black bulls, and pink flamingos. The Canal du Midi is also close to the Etang de Thau and its fantastic oyster beds.

Whichever trip you choose, you will cruise through exceptional cities. The area around Carcassonne, with its towers and battlements, impart the real flavour of the South of France, complete with fortified towns of white stone and historic villages like Trèbes and Puicheric. Medieval villages, Roman churches (Baraigne and Cazalrenoux), abbeys (St Papoul), and isolated monasteries – all can be visited from your selfdrive canal boat.

Other suggestions include Narbonne, the former Roman town of Gaulle, Béziers and its cathedral, Saintes Maries de la Mer, and the magnificent Saint Gilles Abbey.

Regional France represents incredible value for Australian travellers. You can hire a Locaboat from €642 (per person) for seven days, specific dates apply.

That price is based on a Penichette P935W in France, minimum two people, or comfortably fitting three.

Bringing your friends along? Larger Penichettes are available, with multiple departure dates and bases.

magine cruising in southern France, exploring the wonderful Canal du Midi, a famous UNESCO World IHeritage Site, as captain of your own Penichette.

Pause along the way to enjoy local food, savour the region’s wines, visit medieval villages, and take in glorious scenery.

If that sounds pretty close to heaven, Cruise Traveller has the perfect holiday. The key is Locaboat, a longestablished French company that owns a fleet of 380 top-quality Penichettes and canal boats. No licence is necessary to steer these fully equipped and certified craft around, through canals and waterways.

All equipment, crockery, cutlery, bed linen, and towels are supplied, along with gas bottle and a captain’s handbook. You’ll receive boat handling instructions and orientation on departure day to make sure you understand essential cruising rules (which are pretty simple). You are assured of technical assistance available seven days a week.

Then, off you sail!

The itinerary is up to you. You’re the skipper. The Canal du Midi is a prime prospect. It is near the heart of the Camargue, an amazing region on France’s

Locaboat, established in 1977, also offers 200 different cruises to enjoy in 24 regions, not only in France, but also across Europe. Locaboat has established 26 bases in six European countries: France, Germany, Ireland, Italy, the Netherlands, and Poland.

Whichever region you choose, your boating holiday will be punctuated by beautiful landscapes and charming towns, castles, wine cellars, and historical sights.

For more information, contact: Cruise Traveller, Boutique Voyage & Cruise Specialists Free call 1800 507 777 or (07) 5575 8094. sales@cruisetraveller.com.au www.cruisetraveller.com.au

hull and running gear with no barnacles or other marine growth not only saved the owners money on maintenance costs, but it also ensures Finito will always perform at her best.”

Sandra has overseen the custom building of hundreds of SeaPen units that are installed throughout Australia and internationally, so she knows firsthand the benefits of the product. “Boats are moored in harsh marine environments. Most owners spend a lot of money looking after the top sides of the boat, but they can now have the boat’s hull just as clean when using a SeaPen. Finito is an outstanding example of a shrewd boating decision.”

NEW HOME FOR WHITEHAVEN YACHT

T

appointed 20m luxury cruising vessel based at the family’s waterfront home in Cullen Bay, Darwin.

Experienced boat owners Ray and Denise, have recently launched their new motor yacht Finito, a stunning Whitehaven 750. Finito is a beautifully

Sandra Barber at SeaPen says, “An experienced boat owner can appreciate the benefits of mooring a vessel of this magnitude in a SeaPen. It’s like investing in a new garage to house your pride a joy.

Ray and Denise have previously owned another large vessel that was also moored in a SeaPen. So ordering a new SeaPen for the Whitehaven 750 was a forgone conclusion. Having a clean

he Gold Coast is home base to a remarkable local company that manufactures a unique drydocking system for recreational and commercial vessels. The SeaPen is for boaties wanting to keep their boat moored in the water without the cost of antifouling the hull and the hassle of trying to maintain a boat that lives in water.

BOATGOLDCOAST.COM. AU

Historically, using antifouling has been the paradigm for reducing marine growth when mooring in the water. Antifouling, a chemical-based paint, has proven costly and time-consuming to apply and requires regular, sometimes twice yearly, removal and re-application. For years, antifouling has been seen as a necessary evil, but not any more, thanks to SeaPen. Always run off her feet at the company’s manufacturing plant at the Coomera Marine Precinct, Sandra welcomes astute buyers looking to protect their boats and save on maintenance costs. There are various models of SeaPen available for boats from 6m to 30m. SeaPen is sold exclusively by DOCKPRO Pty. Ltd. and will be displayed on the marina in F14 at the upcoming Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show.

For further information go to www.dockpro.com.au or call (07) 5580 4465.

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BOAT GALLEY

PLA LARB FISH SALAD Photos by Juliet Cameron

Southeast Asian seafood delights by Chef WOODY ZEN who shares exciting seafood recipes for you to experience authentic homemade Thai dishes.

Pla in Thai means fish. Larb is the Thai Isan word for salad. This is my version for a unique and refreshing Thai style fish salad.

Ingredients: 1kg – 1.5kg Whole snapper or similar fish (Use fillets if you like too.)

Vegetable, peanut or rice bran oil for shallow fry Corn flour for dusting ½ Red onion, thinly sliced 4 Cherry tomatoes, cut in half 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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½ Red long chilli, thinly sliced 1 Teaspoon roasted ground dried chilli ¼ Cup of coriander leaves 2 Spring onions, thinly sliced 6 Mint leaves, sliced ½ Red apple, grated or thinly sliced ½ Kaffir lime leaf, very thinly sliced (optional) 2cm Lemon grass, the inside white part, thinly sliced (optional) 4 Tablespoons of fish sauce Juice of one lime ½ Lebanese cucumber sliced into wedges and a lime wedge for garnish

Wash the fish and pat dry. Fillet each side of the fish, cutting as close as you can to the bone, then cut each fillet into one-inch size cubes. Reserve the fish frame if you wish to fry it and use in the final serving. Coat fish cubes in corn flour. Coat the fish frame in corn flour if you are using it.

Pour ¼ to ½ inch of oil into a large heavy skillet or wok and place it over medium to high heat on the stove. Allow the oil to warm up for one to two minutes. Place ½ of the fish cubes in the skillet.

Turning several times throughout the cooking process, cook for around 5 minutes or until golden brown. Remove the fish and place it on a plate with paper towels, which will help drain the excess oil. Repeat the process with the remaining fish cubes. If using the frame, place that in the skillet and cook in the same way, then transfer to drain upon paper towel.

In a large bowl, add the sliced red onion, cherry tomatoes, coriander leaves, spring onions, grated apple, mint, fresh chilli and ground chilli. If you have lemongrass and kaffir lime leaf, add them too. Gently mix all together. Add the fried fish cubes to this salad. Combine fish sauce and lime juice and mix into the fish salad.

If using the fish frame, position it how you like it on a large plate or wooden board and neatly place the fish salad within the frame. Alternatively, place the fish salad on your special plate. Finally, add the cucumber and lime wedge to the side, and serve immediately with steamed jasmine rice.

MAY - AUG 2017

BOAT GALLEY

Top 10 Reds for Boaties' Winter 1. RockBare McLaren Vale Shiraz 20 $19.99 Superb sweet perfumed black fruit bouquet – delicate and fresh. Palate is jam-packed with soft ripe flavours and has a lovely mouth-filling texture. A very classy number.

Chris here.

Check it out, I’m back baby! Selling the fermented grapes from bottle to brain for Corker Cellars again.

I’m your genuine shiraz spaz - a rare breed never considered for mass production. Be safe in the knowledge that I will be chasing down that runaway train full of your favourite cabernet and fighting that bear that stole your pinot from the picnic basket. I will also run the violent rapids of chardonnay in my cork kayak to find that fermented friend for life. For realz.

Cat Man

W

inter (if you can really call it that) is almost upon us. And it is time to start looking at digging out a few reds from the cellar, or popping down to Corker Cellars to grab a bargain or three.

We are well and truly spoiled for choice in Australia, with high quality winemaking across all our regions.

Competition is high, and that means the consumer (you), have never had it so good. Listed below, you will find some lovely soft textured and easy drinking wines, some medium-bodied offerings, and also fuller bodied beauties, perfect for the winter months ahead. Most of these wines have been blind-tasted in respected wine shows around the country, and are guaranteed to deliver on quality and value.

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2.John’s Blend Individual Selection 2013 Langhorne Creek Cabernet Sauvignon $34.99 John Glaetzer was Wolf Blass’ right-hand man for many years. This is his personal venture.

35 months maturation in French hogheads, the wine is full of cassis fruit and big tannins.

Will cellar for decades, but who can wait?

Hard to find on the Goldie... but available at Corker Cellars.

3. West Cape Howe Margaret River Cabernet Merlot 2014 94 pts J/H $16.99 Excellent colour and stacks of red currant flavours, and nicely wrapped in French oak. How do they do it for the price? This producer had 5 wines listed in James Halliday’s TOP 100 wines recently. All available now at Corker Cellars.

4. Wirra Wirra Catapult McLaren Vale Shiraz 2015 95 pts J/H $25 Another Halliday TOP 100 wine. This Shiraz is from the big boy’s school, armed to the teeth with black fruits, bitter chocolate and tannins, all lined up in military precision. 10 years in the cellar would only see it improve.

5. Yangarra McLaren Vale Shiraz 2014 95 pts J/H $24.99 The 2013 was one of my picks from last year, and the 2014 is even better! Unmistakably McLaren Vale with its black fruits and dark chocolate notes. Gorgeous texture, with perfect natural acidity, has me coming back for more. Biodynamic producer adds to the charm.

6. JJ Hahn ‘Reginald’ Barossa Valley 2013 Shiraz Cabernet $19.99 The blend that defines Australia, this is the epitome of the Great Australia Red. Soft and fleshy, but firm, with an explosion of fruit and flavour by blending the two varieties. My goto BBQ red.

7. Jack Estate Coonawarra Cabernet Sauvignon 2014 $19.99 Generous and full-bodied wine, rich in dark berry fruits. The smooth, velvety tannins are complemented by balanced French oak, which leads to a long and harmonious finish.

Classic Coonawarra.

8. Catalina Sounds Pinot Noir 2015 $22.99 Silken and elegant, with lovely raspberry and cherry flavours, with dried herbs in the background. Medium-bodied, the palate is finely structured and velvety in texture before soft lingering tannins carry the flavours to a sustained finish with supportive fresh acidity.

9. Villa Maria Hawkes Bay Organic Merlot 2014 $16.99 BioGro certified. Bright berry fruit, plum and spicy cedar notes dominate the nose, and lead into a smooth and generous palate, featuring supple tannins and harmonious oak integration.

10. Kaesler Barossa Valley ‘The Bogan’ Shiraz 2013 $49.99 The Kaesler family were pioneers who settled in the Barossa Valley in the 1840’s.

They planted their first vines in 1893. Today, from these ancient, dry grown vines, they produce this iconic wine. Dark garnet in colour, with full ripe plums, black cherries and savoury spice on the nose. This wine will have a long future.

MAY - AUG 2017

Time

MAY

m

Time

m

Time

Time

Time

JULY

m

Time

0142 0819 SA 1454 2030

1.37 0.32 1.19 0.55

16

17 0117 0759

1.43 0.34 SA 1415 1.14 1941 0.52

0237 0908 SU 1557 2145

1.26 0.33 1.25 0.57

17 0138 0810

1.37 0.32 1.27 0.53

18 0217 0853

0336 0957 MO 1653 2254

1.19 0.33 1.33 0.55

18 0245 0908

19 0159 0846

1.32 0.30 1727 1.37 SU 2320 0.50

19 0319 0947

4 0432 1043

1.15 0.31 1741 1.42 TU 2352 0.49

19 0355 1006

1.46 0.32 1.25 0.46

20 0302 0942

0514 1.28 1127 0.28 MO 1811 1.45

5

20 0421 1038

0525 1.14 1126 0.28 WE 1822 1.49

5

20 0503 1103

6 0506 1130

1.44 0.28 SA 1756 1.35 2343 0.42

21 0402 1031

6 0012 0559

21 0521 1127

6 0039 0612

21 0017 0605

7 0553 1209

1.42 0.25 1838 1.44 SU

22 0458 1117

7 0057 0640

0.41 1.25 1237 0.24 WE 1925 1.58

22 0023 0618

7 0121 0655

0.37 1.15 1243 0.23 FR 1936 1.61

22 0113 0703

0031 0634 MO 1243 1915

0.37 1.40 0.22 1.51

23 0551 1200

0138 0718 TH 1309 1958

0.37 1.23 0.23 1.63

23 0121 0713

0158 0735 SA 1318 2011

0.32 1.16 0.21 1.64

23 0206 0757

9 0114 0711

0.34 1.37 TU 1313 0.21 1949 1.56

24 0035 0641

9 0216 0756

0.34 1.22 FR 1342 0.23 2032 1.65

0215 24 0807

9 0234 0813

0.29 1.17 SU 1354 0.20 2046 1.66

24 0254 0848

10 0154 0747

25 0129 0730

10 0253 0833

25 0309 0901

10 0309 0850

25 0341 0938

0050 0737 TU 1337 1903 0156 0848 WE 1455 2021

0024 0706 FR 1308 1831

m 1.48 0.36 1.09 0.49

0625 0.30 1221 1.13 MO 1755 0.36

0555 0.43 1136 1.07 TU 1704 0.46

JUNE

m

16

0128 0813 TH 1427 1954

1.55 0.32 1.13 0.51

16

1.63 0.35 1.08 0.45

17 0005 0648

0227 0910 FR 1536 2108

1.45 0.33 1.19 0.54

1.55 0.36 1.09 0.50

18 0058 0747

0327 1002 SA 1636 2218

1.49 0.35 1607 1.16 TH 2138 0.50

4 0423 1047

0409 1045 FR 1707 2247

1 2 3

4 0305 0951 5

8

0.32 1.34 1343 0.21 WE 2022 1.60 0232 0822 TH 1412 2055

11

0.31 1.31 0.22 1.62

1.47 0.46 WE 1233 1.03 1755 0.52 1.43 0.45 TH 1342 1.03 1859 0.56

1.40 0.42 1453 1.09 FR 2015 0.56

1.40 0.35 SA 1558 1.19 2132 0.52

1.42 0.27 SU 1655 1.32 2239 0.44

1.45 0.18 1746 1.47 MO 2339 0.35 1.48 0.11 TU 1833 1.62

0.26 1.48 WE 1244 0.05 1921 1.76 0.18 1.46 1328 0.02 TH 2008 1.86

0223 0821 FR 1413 2057

26

0.14 1.41 0.03 1.91

1 2 3

0.46 1.26 TU 1203 0.26 1849 1.53

8

0.32 1.20 1414 0.24 SA 2106 1.66

0331 0910 SU 1448 2141

11

0.32 1.18 0.26 1.65

2 3

1.37 0.24 1623 1.37 MO 2213 0.46 1.36 0.17 TU 1719 1.52 2321 0.38

1.35 0.11 WE 1812 1.67

0.43 1.14 TH 1206 0.26 1900 1.56

0.28 1.35 1216 0.06 TH 1903 1.80 0.20 1.34 FR 1304 0.03 1953 1.89

8

0.14 1.31 SA 1353 0.02 2043 1.93

0.11 1.29 1443 0.05 SU 2133 1.93

0402 0955 MO 1533 2223

26

0.12 1.25 0.11 1.87

0.27 1.17 1429 0.20 MO 2121 1.66 0345 0928 TU 1506 2157

11

0.25 1.17 0.21 1.64

1.22 0.18 1658 1.53 WE 2313 0.37 1.21 0.13 TH 1755 1.66 0.27 1.22 FR 1158 0.07 1850 1.78

0.18 1.24 1250 0.03 SA 1941 1.86

0.11 1.26 SU 1340 0.00 2030 1.89

0.07 1.27 MO 1429 0.01 2117 1.87 0.07 1.27 1518 0.05 TU 2202 1.80

0427 1027 WE 1606 2246

26

12 0409 0949

27 0454 1050

12 0423 1009

27 0511 1115

13 0347 0932

28 0414 1008

13 0449 1030

28 0546 1146

13 0502 1052

28 0554 1206

14 0426 1009

29 0513 1106

14 0531 1115

29 0002 0638

14 0543 1140

29 0009 0636

15 0509 1050

30 0612 1210

15 0617 1207

30 0051 0728

15 0628 1236

30 0053 0720

0.34 1.22 SA 1513 0.29 2202 1.61

0.36 1.17 SU 1546 0.34 2238 1.58

0.40 1.12 MO 1623 0.40 2319 1.53

0.15 1.27 SU 1549 0.15 2239 1.86

0.20 1.20 MO 1641 0.24 2334 1.78 0.25 1.14 TU 1739 0.35

0.34 1.13 TU 1602 0.34 2256 1.58

0.36 1.10 WE 1643 0.39 2339 1.53 0.37 1.08 TH 1732 0.45

0.15 1.21 TU 1625 0.19 2313 1.77

0.20 1.18 WE 1719 0.29 1.64 0.25 TH 1245 1.16 1816 0.40 1.50 0.29 FR 1348 1.16 1920 0.49

0.25 1.16 WE 1545 0.24 2233 1.60

1.26 0.22 TU 1555 1.39 2157 0.45

27 0318 0913

0.13 1.35 SA 1500 0.07 2147 1.91

0.25 1.16 TH 1627 0.29 2312 1.55 0.26 1.16 FR 1714 0.35 2354 1.48

31 0029 0713

1.67 0.29 WE 1317 1.12 1843 0.44

New Moon

First Quarter

0.10 1.25 0.13 1.68

0.15 1.22 TH 1655 0.24 2327 1.54 0.21 1.20 FR 1746 0.35

1.40 0.26 SA 1301 1.18 1842 0.46

1.26 0.31 SU 1403 1.18 1949 0.54

31 0144 0808

1.14 0.34 MO 1509 1.21 2107 0.58

Full Moon

© Copyright Commonweatth of Australia 2014, Bureau of Meteorology.

BOATGOLDCOAST.COM. AU

0.26 1.17 SA 1810 0.41

m 1.41 0.26 1.21 0.47

1.33 0.25 MO 1448 1.28 2035 0.49

12 0309 0856

0.32 1.27 FR 1441 0.25 2128 1.63

0.33 1.15 MO 1524 0.30 2218 1.62

1.39 0.30 SU 1521 1.24 2058 0.51

1

0041 0717 SU 1339 1917

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.

Using the patented steel coupling, Catch’n’Release works by changing the point of retrieval of the anchor without the need for exhaustive maneouvering of the vessel saving time, fuel, wear and tear and of course money..

“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

79

AUSTRALIAN SUPERYACHT RENDEZVOUS

MAY

19-20

More than $100 million worth of superyachts from across Australia and other parts of the world will descend and party on the Gold Coast for the first ever Australian Superyacht Rendezvous. Hosted by Gold Coast City Marina, the event aims to showcase the economic and tourism potential of the Australian superyacht industry. (australiansuperyachtrendezvous.com)

EVENTS GUIDE M AY – A U G 2 0 1 7

SANCTUARY COVE INTERNATIONAL BOAT SHOW (SCIBS)

MAY

25-28

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)

AUSTRALIAN FISHING TRADE ASSOCIATION TRADE SHOW

JULY

30-1

A trade show dedicated to the fishing, marine and outdoors industries, will be held at the Gold Coast Convention and Exhibition Centre. (aftatradeshow.com.au)

AUDI HAMILTON ISLAND RACE WEEK

AUG

15-22

Australia's largest offshore keelboat regatta offers events and classes, ranging from the Grand Prix class for top-class racers, to corporate, bareboat and non-spinnaker divisions. The race is conducted on the waters of the Whitsunday Passage and surrounds. (hamiltonislandraceweek.com.au)

AUG SHAG ISLET 22-27 CRUISING YACHT CLUB RENDEZVOUS The Rendezvous is the annual gathering of members at Shag Islet, Gloucester Passage in the Whitsunday Region in North Queensland. SICYC is a social club for yachties boasting 5,400 members in 16 countries, and is a not-for-profit group supporting the Prostate Cancer Foundation of Australia. (sicyc.org)

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)

THE HOBIE KAYAK BREAM SERIES

MAY

ICOMIA/IFBSO CONGRESS

24-27

The International Council of Marine Industry Associations (ICOMIA) is the international trade association representing the global marine industry. The ICOMIA Congress will be staged on the Gold Coast and attracts delegates from around the globe. Hosted by ICOMIA’s Australian member, Boating Industry Association.

The annual event is a joint congress with the International Federation of Boat Show Organisers (IFBSO).

JULY

22-23

The Hobie Kayak Bream Series is designed to offer kayak anglers a competitive bream-fishing tournament.

These events are open to all makes of kayaks. The series will have its own qualifying rounds, rankings, payouts and prize schedule. From 6am at Foreshore, Mitchell Park, Broadwater, Gold Coast, Queensland. (hobiefishing.com.au/bream)

AUG

JULY LAND ROVER SYDNEY GOLD COAST 29 YACHT RACE

SYDNEY INTERNATIONAL BOAT SHOW

This year will mark the 32nd edition of the 384-nautical mile race, starting at the Sydney Harbour and finishing off Main Beach in Southport. Southport Yacht Club is the Gold Coast host.

The boats should arrive at Southport by 1 August. (goldcoast.cyca.com.au)

The show returns to Darling Harbour and will occupy the entire 32,600m2 of exhibition space and the use of an elevated 5,000m2 open-air event deck at the newly built Sydney International Convention Centre. Incorporating the Australia International Dive Expo and an expansion of the marina displays at Cockle Bay. (www.sydneyboatshow.com.au)

2017 BRISBANE BOAT SHOW

3-7

AUG

25-27

The Brisbane Boat Show will be at the Brisbane Convention and Exhibition Centre, Southbank. The Show is owned and organised by the Boating Industry Association (BIA), the voice of Australia’s boating industry. Fishing, water ski and wake boats, personal watercraft, family cruisers, canoes and kayaks, and more, will be plentiful. (brisbaneboatshow.com.au)

VICE IN-HOUSE GRAPHIC DESIGN SER

WRAP FILM

80

SUPREME WRAP

NEW SHOWROOM NOW OPEN:

TEXT US A PICTURE OF YOUR BOAT FOR A QUICK QUOTE

Shop L1 - 1 Boatworks Drive, Coomera

Rob Bampton: 0419 944 660 | printimagesigns.com.au MAY - AUG 2017

BOAT GOLD COAST

WELCOME TO THE 2017 BRISBANE BOAT SHOW T

h e Brisbane Boat Show has a 56year history serving Australia’s largest boating population. With boating part of the Queensland DNA, the Brisbane Boat Show warrants being the Premier Boating Event for the region.

With a triumphant return in 2016 to the Brisbane Convention and Exhibition Centre, Southbank, the show promises an epic effort in 2017. A commitment is being made to add another hall to the show at the venue.

More space means more opportunities to display all of the new products, and boating concepts and ideas released to the market by the Show’s manufacturing neighbours.

experienced boater can come to the show to be educated and entertained by the opportunities the boating lifestyle has to offer – or even bring the whole family for a great day out.

While fishing plays a big part of the event, other boating tastes are also catered for. Water ski and wake boats, personal watercraft, family cruisers, canoes and kayaks, and more, will be plentiful.

The boats remain the show’s heroes, but expect to get all your gear for your boating and fishing needs too.

Show Dates: 25 to 27 August Show Hours: 10 am to 8 pm (closes 6 pm Sunday).

Visit www.BrisbaneBoatShow.com.au for more show, transport and parking information closer to show time.

The Show is owned and organised by the Boating Industry Association (BIA), the voice of Australia’s boating industry. The BIA has other shows in their portfolio like the Adelaide Boat Show (30 June - 2 July) and Sydney International Boat Show (3 - 7 August), which means that Brisbane Boat Show is among other industry leading events.

Queensland is the state where recreational boating is a major part of the lifestyle and the BIA understands the importance of the Brisbane Boat Show for so many people. The new and

BRISBANE

25 to 27 August BRISBANE CONVENTION & EXHIBITION CENTRE Southbank

The original Queensland Boat Show returns and it’s bigger and better than ever

• Fresh new releases from Queensland’s major boating manufacturers • Entertainment, education, advice and plenty to see for all the family

BrisbaneBoatShow.com.au BOATGOLDCOAST.COM. AU

81

BOAT GOLD COAST

NEW HOME FOR HIGH-TECH GEAR

Errol and Raechel Cain, Cr William Owen-Jones, Cr Cameron Caldwell, Tony Longhurst, Shane Subichin, Russell Ingall and Stefan Ackerie ustralian Marine Wholesale (AM Wholesale) director, Errol Cain has officially opened his A bigger and better Superstore, still at The Boat

Works in Coomera Marine Precinct, but five times the size!

“We have outgrown our previous location, driven by customer demand, the addition of new products, and an increase in traffic here at The Boat Works,” said Mr Cain, who has owned and operated AM Wholesale for six years.

“The new premises are situated at a hugely visible location on the corner of Beattie Rd and Waterway Drive. We have a massive new showroom and

The dynamic and innovative gear on display in the new purpose built showroom

several new and innovative products to introduce to the boating public. This is a great opportunity to propel our business to next level!”

AM Wholesale represents the world’s leading brands in desalination systems, marine navigation packages, on-board entertainment, cameras, communications, and marine LED lighting.

The new AM Wholesale Superstore is the next phase in the expansion of The Boat Works over the past three years – a $20 million investment by The Boat Works owner and CEO, Tony Longhurst.

The AM Wholesale Superstore was officially opened last month in an elaborate gathering of VIPS, clients,

media, and industry to inspect AM Wholesale’s cutting-edge products in marine electronics and equipment. Special guests Cr William Owen-Jones and Cr Cameron Caldwell were in attendance to oversee the ribbon-cutting ceremony by Mr Cain’s wife and business partner Raechel.

“We are very excited about this new phase. It’s exhilarating and nerve wracking at the same time.

All signs indicate a positive, buoyant market at present, and we are confident our product lines will surpass the boating public’s expectations. We are pleased and proud to be part of the vibrant offering at The Boat Works.” www.amwholesale.com.au

LOVE SURVEY

Help with important research by taking our online survey about LOVE MAKING ON BOARD Answer the survey by visiting this link: www.boatgoldcoast.com.au/lovesurvey Come on, ‘fess up and share your sexy secrets!

How small is too small? Can you still get romantic on a small boat with no cabin? Do you have to wait for after dark or anchor out for privacy?

Boat Gold Coast is going “under cover” with this survey to find out what really happens when couples are on the water. Two great prizes go to whoever pens the most amusing and creative answer!

T ING I C X E LOVE , OME C

EW A ND N D , W E ’ RE R A BO A ING YOU T E X PEC

IMAGE COURTESY DESTINATION NSW

Note: This is a humorous quiz in a light-hearted spirit. Don’t worry about your privacy. The survey is anonymous, unless you complete the email section. We appreciate your candid, truthful, “clean” and non-offensive answers.

Overly rude or crude answers will be immediately deleted, after our office crew read them first.

30 JULY – 1 AUGUST 2017 | INTERNATIONAL CONVENTION CENTRE SYDNEY

• •

• • • • •

The No. 1 marine business and safety conference, attracting over 500 attendees from across Australia and the Asia Pacific region In conjunction with the 50th Anniversary Sydney International Boat Show the largest recreational marine event in the southern hemisphere Hosted at the newly developed International Convention Centre Sydney 3 days of information sharing, education and inspiration 4 key streams: Boating Business, Marinas, Boating Safety and Light Commercial Vessels 60 in-depth conference sessions and more than 80 local & international speakers Over 70 B2B exhibitors specialising in products and services for the Australian Marine Industry

CONFERENCE HOSTS:

82

Make sure Marine17 is in your calendar. For information about attending or exhibiting please visit www.marine17.com or phone +61 2 9368 1200

www.marine17.com

MAY - AUG 2017

BOAT BUSINESS

SEEKING TO BREAK DOWN ALL BARRIERS TO TRADE T

he International Council of Marine Industry Associations (ICOMIA) brings together national boating federations in one global organisation, and represents them at an international level, presenting a strong and united voice when dealing with issues challenging the industry.

No less than 34 national federations across the world are full members of ICOMIA today. Its members include the vast majority of the industrialised countries from North America across to Japan and China, and from Finland to New Zealand.

ICOMIA also has two members in Australia: the Boating Industry Association (BIA), the national body for recreational and light commercial boating industry in Australia; and, the Australian International Marine Export Group (AIMEX), representing the Australian marine export and superyacht industries.

“Our membership is what makes and defines ICOMIA,” says Udo Kleinitz, ICOMIA’s Secretary General. “I like to think of our organisation as one big community. We face any difficulties we might encounter together and we always try to help each other out. It is the way it has always been. This is why ICOMIA is absolutely crucial for the future of our industry.”

ICOMIA was formed by members of the International Federation of Boat Show Organisers (IFBSO), representing the USA, UK, France, Netherlands and Sweden, in early November 1966, at Avenida Palace Hotel in Barcelona, At the following year’s IFBSO/ICOMIA Joint Congress, held in Stockholm, 32 delegates representing 16 countries (from Europe and the US) approved ICOMIA’s organisational plan

and mission statement: “To promote boating as a leading international recreational activity by establishing the medium for the exchange of information on all matters related to the common interest, such as safety, quality, and marinas, so as to stimulate the sale and usage of boats and their equipment.”

To this day, these focus-points remain the foundation upon which a successful boat-friendly environment is built: Safety, Infrastructure and Awareness.

During the next 50 years, ICOMIA honoured its mission, spearheading numerous beneficial improvements within the marine industry, not least the work on the EU’s Recreational Craft Directive (RCD).

The RCD, developed in the 1990s, is a European Union Directive setting out minimum technical, safety and environmental standards for the manufacture, import, distribution and trade of boats (between 2.5m and 24m), personal watercraft, marine engines and components on the EU single market as well as Iceland, Norway, Lichtenstein and Switzerland (as part of the European Economic Area/European Free Trade Association), and Turkey (candidate EU member).

Since 18 January 2017, obligations and responsibilities of all economic operators and distributors have been further defined in a new Directive. It requires boat, personal watercraft and engine manufacturers to keep a technical file on all relevant data, and to officially declare the compliance of their product using a declaration of conformity template (DoC), to affix the CE marking to it, and to inform users about safe use and maintenance. Importers and distributors have an obligation to ensure these processes are completed before placing on the EU market. Importers will need

to add their name, trademark and contact details to the craft or product.

Linked to the RCD is the development of over 60 ISO (International Organization for Standards) Standards for small craft, spearheaded by the ISO Technical Committee for Small Craft Standards (TC 188), the committee dedicated to small craft under 24 meters. TC 188 was established over 25 years ago and develops standards for all aspects of small craft design and construction, including safety-equipment, systems and handling. ICOMIA funds the processing of developed and revised Standards within the TC 188 secretariat.

With ICOMIA monitoring emerging technical and environmental regulations, guiding the developments and revisions of standards and the RCD as well publishing statistics, it remains a leader in global developments across all sectors and is uniquely positioned to act as the voice of the recreational marine industry.

For half a century, ICOMIA has sought to break down barriers to trade, and support its members and industry in every way possible by giving recommendations and providing the necessary instruments needed to navigate bureaucratic choppy seas.

The ICOMIA and its parent organisation, IFBSO, continue to hold their joint AGM Congresses in cities around the globe – the next one being hosted by BIA on the Gold Coast, Australia in May www.icomia.com.

For more information on the Australian member associations, •Boating Industry Association (BIA) – bia.org.au •Aust. International Marine Export Group (AIMEX) - aimex.asn.au

3 to 7 August International Convention Centre – Sydney and Cockle Bay Marina, Darling Harbour

This year’s show will be a special time in the history of recreational boating. Make sure you bring the family along to celebrate the 50th edition. The show is the best place to see and buy boats and all the gear for them. Packed with fabulous education and entertainment; its return fully to Darling Harbour marks another milestone filling the entire exhibition space, not only making it the only consumer show to do so, but also making it the biggest boat show in the southern hemisphere.

SydneyBoatShow.com.au BOATGOLDCOAST.COM. AU

Incorporating the

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Partner in Safety

83

SICYC supports

BOAT EVENT

SHAG ISLET CRUISING YACHT CLUB

RENDEZVOUS 2017

Islet, more dancing, walk-around oyster shuckers, loud drinks with new friends, best-dressed Pirate King and Queen, boaties’ buy-swap-sell (used boatie gear only), annual dinghy round-up to form PCFA logo holding “Hands Across the Blue” for prostate cancer, dancing, raffles and auctions, helicopter rides, fireworks, really loud drinks with old and new friends, reef fishing charters, more dancing, and on it goes.

I

t is that time again. The Annual Shag Islet Cruising Yacht Club (SICYC) Rendezvous will be held at Gloucester Passage over the weekend of 24-27 August 2017.

The Rendezvous will include: Meet-and-Greet, A Prostate Cancer Foundation of Australia (PCFA) Breakfast, Tai Chi on the beach, kite flying on Shag Islet, Bands and dancing at Montes Reef resort and Cape Gloucester resort, pirate party, with prizes for best outfits, more dancing, prizes for best-dressed boat by day and by night, quiet drinks with new friends, music and information updates on Shag Island Coconut Radio, annual cake-cutting and BBQ and Seafood on Shag

84

There are 20 moorings for hire off Cape Gloucester Resort. The anchorage is big with good holding particularly on the western side of Shag Islet and there is also good anchorage for shoal draft vessels on the eastern side, off Montes Reef Resort. The gently shelving beaches require you to use a long painter on your dinghy.

The annual Rendezvous raffle will feature major prizes: a $5,000 catamaran charter on the beautiful Reflections and a holiday package at Shingley Beach Resort Airlie Beach, and over 20 other fantastic prizes. There will be an auction of donated items, ranging from bungalows at Montes and Cape Gloucester Resorts for Rendezvous 2017, marina berthing packages, SICYC-themed toilet seats, and SICYC Queensland personalised number plates.

If you are a person who does NOT enjoy socialising, swapping stories, being prone to mild exaggeration, helping out when required, laughing at jokes and dancing, then you need not attend. To everyone else out there – it is time!

Time to dust off the pirate outfit, stock up on new jokes, bad outfits and loud shirts, iron the Vice Commodore shirt, check the party lights, sort out the flag collection, service the boat, check the sails and rigging, dust off the kite and replace the string, polish up your best dancing thongs, and practise those really catchy moves that only you can do. Time to haunt the second-hand shops to get your outfit together for the annual fancy dress day – which this year is themed “What were YOU wearing when the ship went down?”

SICYC is a not-for-profit incorporated association, which has raised over $400,000 for prostate cancer awareness and research over the past six years. SICYC now have over 5,400 members from 16 nations. Every member of SICYC is a “Vice Commodore”. The membership fee is $65 for life, and includes many other perks. Non-members may sign up at www.sicyc.com.au.

MAY - AUG 2017

THE FIRST GLOBAL 5 GOLD ANCHOR ACCREDITED MARINA IN THE WORLD.

We’re making quite a splash. Drop anchor soon.

At Abell Point Marina we’ve set a course for excellence and in October we became the first global 5 Gold Anchor accredited Marina in the world. Wow, that really floated our boat. But it’s just the beginning. We’re constantly innovating and upgrading our vibrant, world-class Marina. Drop anchor soon, you can expect the famous Blue Carpet Treatment we roll out for all our extended boatie family.

| 507 wet berths | Up to 90 metre berths for yachts | Tailored, 5-star customer service | Welcome Vessel | Dockside Concierge | | Helicopter transfers | The Great Barrier Reef and Whitsundays on our doorstep | R Marine Crawley yacht management services | | Hidden gems of Airlie Beach a short walk away | Concierge Cars | A vibrant Marina village with restaurants, cafes and bars | eConcierge App | | Dozens of charter and adventure options | Marina Lifestyle Card | ABELLPOINTMARINA.COM.AU

BOATGOLDCOAST.COM. AU

85

BOAT GOLD COAST

SANCTUARY COVE INTERNATIONAL BOAT SHOW Influx of luxury yachts cruising into SCIBS 2017

Leigh-Smith Yachts will present a 72 foot Hampton Endurance

B

uyers looking for the ultimate ocean lifestyle where they can live aboard, travel long-range distances at a relaxed pace and enjoy spacious entertainment areas need look no further than the 29th Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show (SCIBS).

Trawler boats are charting their course for SCIBS 2017, held from from May 25 to 28, with organisers confirming the largest display in recent years.

Brands to secure on-water space include Grand Banks Yachts, Fleming Yachts, Clipper Motor Yachts, Alaska Motor Yachts, Integrity Motor Yachts, Nordhavn and newcomers DeFever Yachts.

SCIBS general manager Johan Hasser said the market demand for trawler boats is increasing yearon-year with a rising trend of buyers looking for the ultimate ocean lifestyle.

“The growth of the trawler segment at SCIBS is very exciting, with our long-standing exhibitors returning and new major brands coming on board,” Mr Hasser said.

“The volume and quality of brands signing on reflects improved confidence within the industry and the growing interest in trawlers amongst experienced boaties.”

Grand Banks Yachts will stage the world launch of its highly anticipated GB60 at the Show, complemented by two nearby vessels from Palm Beach Motor Yachts.

“The GB60 is taking Grand Banks in a whole new direction in terms of appearance, performance and construction techniques,” said CEO Mark Richards, who came to Grand Banks with its acquisition of PBMY. “We are particularly excited because this is the first collaboration effort between the design teams of both brands. The result is a better performing yacht with a fresh appearance.”

Yacht Domain director Peter Devers said the company will be debuting the Nordhavn 60 to the Australian market, while also showcasing the N52 model.

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“Nordhavn aficionados will be coming from all over to see the N60,” Mr Devers said.

Leigh-Smith Yachts is bulking up its presence at SCIBS 2017 with $14 million in boats to be displayed on-water.

Director Ryan Leigh-Smith said they are looking forward to showcasing long-range brands like Alaska, Hampton and Endurance, meeting a variety of buyers’ requirements.

“Clients are savvier and more educated about the trawler market these days and they’re looking further afield and wanting more options to consider,” Mr Leigh-Smith said.

Leigh-Smith Yachts, which has displayed at SCIBS since its inception, will showcase a 47-foot Alaska valued at $1.1 million, as well as 68-foot and 72-foot Hampton vessels.

Exhibiting for the first time at SCIBS 2017 is Q7 Marine which, as the Australian and New Zealand dealer for DeFever Yachts, is bringing the renowned trawler yacht brand back to the Show.

Q7 Marine director Paul Miletta said the DeFever 55 long-range trawler will be launched in Queensland at SCIBS, following the vessel’s market debut last July.

The three-cabin vessel is powered by a single engine keel-cooled with a hydraulic system that includes hydraulic bow and stern thrusters, and hydraulic stabilisers. It also has a spacious interior with a full-beam master cabin.

“You have the toughness and long-range ability of a trawler along with the comforts of home,” Mr Miletta said.

Expanding its presence at this year’s Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show is Integrity Motor Yachts, which will feature the world launch of the largest ever Integrity vessel, the 530 Grand Sedan, in an upsized on-water display.

Integrity managing director Brett Flanagan said visitors to SCIBS would be impressed by the 530 Grand Sedan’s features such as expansive living and entertaining areas, full beam master, and the biggest cockpit in the class.

The brand will also showcase its 490 Grand Sedan, 440 Sedan and the 320 Express entry-level model at the Show.

SCIBS regular Fleming Yachts Australia returns to the Show to display the Fleming 65 for the first time since 2011.

Fleming Yachts Australia general manager Sam Nicholas said the Fleming 65 was just one of two currently in Australian waters and was being made available to exhibit at SCIBS by its Brisbanebased owner.

“Fewer people have seen the Fleming 65, and with one currently located in Brisbane belonging to an owner kind enough to allow us, we thought this year was a great time to bring it to SCIBS,” Mr Nicholas said.

Employing the same design philosophy and layout as her smaller stable mate, the Fleming 65 offers more interior and deck space, a wider beam, a walk-in engine room and greater fuel capacity.

For more information or to register as an exhibitor, visit www.sanctuarycoveboatshow.com.au or phone the Boat Show office on +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.

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