Groundswell December 2013

D EC e m be r

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2013

A r e g u l a r n e w S l e t t e r f r o m t h e C r u i s i n g Y ac h t C l u b o f S o u t h A u s t r a l i a

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> Racing News > Marine Academy > Girl’s Night In > Ice Fishing

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197 3 – 2013

> that’s a gas, man > opening day > the fastnet > spencer gulf cruise

Andrew Saies President

Board of Management President Treasurer

Andrew Saies Chris Wood Wayne Coonan Peter Hall Graham Meyers David Murray Sam Tolley

Flag Officers Commodore Vice Commodore Rear Commodore

Geoff Boettcher Rowland Richardson David Knights

Staff Chief Executive Officer Craig Evans Administration and Operations Manager Jenny Krogdahl Finance Manager Marina Segodina Communications and Membership Services Laura Cowley Leasing Coordinator Mellissa Vahoumis Receptionist Angela Christofis Marine Academy Coord Matthew Young Racing Manager Jess Hargreaves Food & Bev Manager Mario Cataldi Head Chef Dorian Molga Facility Supervisor Robert Gray Port Vincent Marina Rob Marner Association Chairpersons Cruising Richard Lea Fishing Glenn Spear Racing Traci Ayris Social Activities Pam Humeniuk Life Members Arthur F Carolan Richard H Fidock AO Graeme L Footer John Gerard James A Henry (Dec’d) Malcolm A Kinnaird AC Peter J Page Editors of Groundswell Gay Footer, Laura Cowley, Owen Mace Contributions to reception@cycsa.com.au Advertising in Groundswell Laura Cowley: Telephone 08 8248 4222 Groundswell is the official journal of the Cruising Yacht Club of South Australia Inc. Lady Gowrie Drive, North Haven PO Box 1020 North Haven SA 5018 Telephone: 08 8248 4222 Facsimile: 08 8248 5888 Email: reception@cycsa.com.au Web: www.cycsa.com.au Phone Port Vincent: 0414 611 110 Registered by Australia Post Publication No PP565001/00184 ISSN 1039-4230 Graphic design by Trevor Paynter Printed by Reflex Printing

From the President T

he new Board was elected at the Annual General Meeting in August and those results have been previously reported to members.

In recent weeks the results of a survey of members, conducted by Board member David Murray, has given a reasonable indication of the interest and expertise of members and their preparedness to assist the Club. The Board will use this information where agreed by the member as a basis for identifying people who might fill committee and Association positions in the future. Thank you David for the idea and the follow through.

The Board have recently also agreed to a slight change in Board meeting structure and will schedule times on at least three occasions throughout the year per committee where Board subcommittees will formally meet and progress the action plans within their areas.

The Board now has formally constituted three new committees being: Facilities Committee, Finance Audit and Risk Committee and Member Services Committee. The latter includes a sponsorship and marketing brief. As these committees further define their respective roles they will be looking to increase committee membership with the appropriate expertise to assist their deliberations.

The Board remains focused on forecasting cash flows and financial performance of the entities out to ten years and met in November with our new auditors to brief them on the Club, its activities, members and future capital requirements. In this way we will develop a road map with triggers for possible capital expenditure or restraint as the case may be.

The Board intends to advise all members very soon about the status, funding and repayment structure for the Western Marina breakwater project. The financial commitment can now be exactly determined given that the Minister has vetoed SABFAC’s approval for our grant application and a meeting with him personally in his office failed to persuade him that ten years of guaranteed access to the boat ramp for public use was a good deal for the Government and trailer boaties. The Minister was seeking fifty-seven years of guaranteed access for the same level of funding that SABFAC had approved for ten years of access. The Board unanimously agreed that such an agreement given the freehold value of the asset (ramp and surrounding land) would severely compromise the long term financial security of the Club and advised the Minister accordingly.

The Board continues to explore options with Government but only on a sound and fair commercial basis which reserves our right to use our assets as we see fit.

On Opening Day I was very pleased to announce and formally hand over Commodore duties to Geoff Boettcher. Through his various boats and campaigns Geoff has been a great advocate for sailing and the CYCSA in South Australia, nationally and most recently overseas.

We look forward to Geoff’s contribution to further aspect of Club life.

Geoff Cat signs off as Commodore and I take this opportunity to again thank him on behalf of all the Board for the significant contribution that he has made to the Club over many years as a Board member, Treasurer, President and over the last four years as our Commodore.

Geoff immersed himself in the role and took on jobs and functions above and beyond what might be expected of a Commodore. He spent hours in and around the Club assisting members and management with the very genuine aim of enhancing the value of membership for all. In this he was very successful.

Some of his initiatives included the annual Sydney to Hobart Dinner, the links with the Naval, Military and Air Force Club, the regular planning meetings with Associations and of course the huge contribution he made to the Club’s 40th Anniversary celebrations over the course of the last summer season.

I know Geoff will now be able to walk down to his boat on D Row knowing that he will be there in two minutes unencumbered by the conversations that he willingly had with any member who would stop him for a chat. Geoff, well done and thank you.

Andrew Saies, President Cover Photo: The Tall Ships visited Port Adelaide in August with many CYCSA boats joining the flotilla.

Photograph by Richard Lea

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Craig Evans Chief Executive Officer

At the Helm

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e were blessed with great weather to welcome in the season making Opening Day 2013 a great success. The sail past went off without a hitch and much fun was had by all. Opening Day is a great day to enjoy your boat and showcase your Club to family, friends, sponsors and other important guests. I hope that you were able to attend and made the most of it, if not please make sure that you reserve the last Saturday in October in future years.

It would be good not to have to get political in this report however with the unfair and unreasonable council rates on berths, the high cost of the recreational boating levy charged to the owners of large vessels, the Minister’s refusal to accept the recommendation of his own committee to provide boating facility funding to assist extend the North Haven breakwater and the mystery of Marine Parks… it’s hard not to be disappointed. I appreciate that most boat and berth owners do not want to get too involved in the politics and would prefer just to enjoy their boats and leisure time however it’s got to a point where enough is enough. Included with this edition of Groundswell there are some brochures that I would ask that you take the time to read. We are only a few months away from a State election and the boating community of South Australia has an opportunity to voice their concerns and show our politicians the importance of our recreation and boating industry.

Please register to participate in a survey to help promote and protect your boating lifestyle on www.australiaboatingsurvey.com

I would like to take this opportunity to thank my staff. The team, involving Administration, Grounds and Hospitality staff, work tirelessly in planning and event management to ensure that the day is a success. The students and parents of the Ocean View College sailing team again assisted on the day and we thank them for their efforts assisting our members. Thanks must also go to the many volunteers who assisted with the Unforgettable Houseboat Challenge and on the planning committee. Last but not least I would like to acknowledge and thank the huge contribution made by our retiring Commodore Geoff Catt. Geoff’s involvement in assisting with Opening Day planning has for many years started the day after the previous Opening Day. His dedication and attention to detail was first class and he will be a very hard act to follow.

The Cruising Yacht Club of South Australia was recently a finalist in five award categories at the Clubs SA Awards of Excellence and was one of 88 Clubs entered in the various categories. Categories that we were a finalist in included Best Sporting/Community Club Award, Best Dining Award, Best Bar Award, Best Club Operations Award and Club of the Year Metro (Large). The CYCSA was successful in receiving the award for Best Sporting/Community Club in South Australia.

The retirement of Geoff Catt from the role of Commodore ended a position of office at the CYCSA that commenced as a Board member in 2001. Geoff later went on to be the Club Treasurer, President and finally our Commodore. I have had the pleasure of working with Geoff since 2002 when initially joining him on the Board. Geoff’s contribution has been significant and the CYCSA is in a much better shape due to his commitment and passion for the Club and its members. Many thanks Geoff and Mavis.

Following a restructure of several positions at the Club we welcome Shanan Gilchrist and Andy Tanner to our property/maintenance team.

Shanan and Andy have been employed primarily to maintain the marina infrastructure and have already made significant improvements to our Marina East facility.

A review of sponsorship at the Club has recently been carried out. The review provides clearer definitions and guidelines to both the Club and the sponsor and delivers a more equitable platform for existing and future sponsors of Club Associations and ‘All of Club’ sponsors.

Sponsorship is an important aspect to all clubs and the CYCSA is no exception. If you would like to know more about becoming a sponsor at the Club please do not hesitate to give me a call.

This time last year I reported on some progress to relieve the growing burden of Council Rates on berths. The Honorable John Darley MLC had delivered a Bill to Parliament to change the Local Government Act so that berths would not be subject to the minimum rate and rates would only be based on the value of the actual berth itself. Twelve months later and we are still trying to have this amendment to the Act passed. On your behalf a great deal of work has been carried out by a number of organisations and individuals. I would like to acknowledge the efforts of the Hon John Darley MLC, Susan Close MP and the Boating Industry Association of South Australia who have all been working hard to have this unfair and unreasonable impost addressed for all berth owners throughout South Australia. Parliament is currently sitting and we hope that the amendment will be supported in the coming weeks.

New BBQs have been installed at our Port Vincent Marina just in time for summer. The installation of the BBQs is the second stage of this project and we hope to be able to build a shelter over this area in the future.

I would like to take this opportunity to wish you a Merry Christmas and great New Year. All the best for 2014. Safe boating.

Craig Evans, Chief Executive Officer

NEW MEMBERS Over the last three months the following people have joined the Club.

Please make them welcome.

Past Commodore Graeme Footer passes on pearls of wisdom to the new Commodore Geoff Boettcher, such as.... “The goal is not to sail the boat, but rather help the boat sail itself” (John

Michael Ashforth Tom Bailey Jonathan Bannister John Benc Shevaun Bruland Steven Butler Richard Clarnette Harry Cooper Anthony Cosgrove Colin Daken Marc De Maaijer

Rousmaniere) 4

Mike Denner Neil Gale Amber Grantham Amy Grantham Harvey Grantham Toby Grantham Darren Hughes Patty Hughes David Johnson John Kenny Andrew Kerr

Helen Klingsporn Hugh Longbottom Ben Lunn Ross MacDonald Cindy Nguyen Peta Oliver Con Parashakis Felix Paterson Caitlin Penery Graham Phillips Tim Proudman

Kathryn Reeves Graham Rowland Gary Singleton Jessica Stephens Peter Stevens Flynn Stewart Rob Stillwell Mark Thulborne Bill Waterhouse Robert Young

Geoff Boettcher Commodore

Commodore’s Report

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hen I was approached to take on the position of Commodore I realised after a 40 year association with the CYCSA and being a Foundation Member it was time to give something back to a Club that had given me so much enjoyment over those years. The trust the Board and Geoff Catt showed in my appointment was an honour and I was ‘chuffed’ to say the least.

appreciated the Sail Past from ‘the other side of the fence’ and the spectacular parade of the 65 power and sail boats. Geoff Catt again managed to organise some great weather on the day. Congratulations to all the winners receiving awards at the presentation for best dressed boats and themes. At the end of the day I was fortunate in leaving the Club as Commodore and proud to become part of such a professional and enthusiastic team.

I would like to thank Geoff Catt for his support in easing me into the position. Having the backing of Rowland Richardson as Vice Commodore and David Knights as Rear Commodore gives me some strong experience to draw from. Those big sailing boots of Geoff Catt, teamed with Mavis, will take some filling. Thanks Geoff for all those years put into the Commodore’s role and the excellent results achieved.

My first official function in the new role was attending the opening of the Royal South Australian Yacht Squadron, another excellent day.

The hospitality shown by Commodore Peter Cooling and RSAYS Flag Officers confirmed a great working relationship has been forged and I look forward to working further with the Squadron in building both our racing fleets and camaraderie.

I would not have accepted the position without the ‘nod’ from my wife Sue. She has shown her enthusiasm in assisting me in the role and I am sure she will be of great assistance. Sue was part of the Management Team at Qantas in Adelaide and has since gained her Degree in Visual Art. Recently she assisted with the relocation of the Adelaide Central School of Art and continues to work with them on fundraising.

Yacht clubs worldwide face similar problems particularly in the area of attracting intermediate memberships into the sailing fraternity. After the Fastnet Race I visited clubs in the United Kingdom and Ireland where I found they are experiencing these same problems. I look forward to working with our Flag Officers and REX in promoting our Marine Academy and encouraging youth into our racing fleet. We have strong Fishing, Cruising and Social Associations that form the backbone of the Club and Sue and I look forward to supporting their activities.

Like many members I began my sailing career in Holdfast Trainers and other dinghy classes at the Grange Sailing Club. My father was heavily involved in the building of the clubhouse and held the post of Commodore for some of those years.

Boxing Day will see our very own Shining Sea line up for the Sydney to Hobart Yacht Race. With their preparation and training this year we will all no doubt look forward to following their progress on the CYCA Yacht Tracker. Well done Andrew Corletto in representing CYCSA in the ‘Great Race’ and we all wish you and your crew a safe and successful passage south. May the wind gods be with you.

My first keelboat ride and Sydney to Hobart Yacht Race was on Adria in 1976. The pinnacle of my ongoing racing career was no doubt winning the 2010 Hobart and this year shipping Secret Mens Business 3.5 to the United Kingdom to compete in the Fastnet Race where we managed to achieve a respectable third in Premium Race Division Z. After participating in 23 Hobarts I believe I should now hang up my boots to allow more time to perform my duties at the Club!

On behalf of the Flag Officers I would like to wish our members and friends a Merry Christmas and for those travelling a safe and enjoyable journey. Sue and I look forward to soon becoming acquainted with those members we have not already met.

Geoff Boettcher, Commodore

On this year’s Opening Day I was granted a position with the Flag Officers as ‘apprentice Commodore’ on the foredeck of CYC1. I

Incoming Commodore Geoff Boettcher with wife Sue receives his Commodore’s burgee from President Andrew Saies at the 2013 Opening Day

Retiring Commodore Geoff Catt and wife Mavis at Opening Day 2013 5

NEW BOATS This is another in the series of articles aimed at providing you with a little insight into a few of the ‘new’ boats to the Club over recent months. While not all are newly built, most are relatively new to the Club and others have moved to new owners within the Club. We warmly welcome all these ‘new’ boats and owners.

Editors’ Note If you would like your boat featured in this section of Groundswell, please write around 180-200 words and provide a high resolution digital photo (or ask Gay Footer or Laura to take a photo for you) and submit your contribution to reception.

bella dama

golden cowrie

Owen and Delia Mace have a new “lovely lady” called Bella Dama, a 2005 Riviera 4000. After 20 years sailing a variety of yachts in the Murray River, the Gulfs and Europe, they decided that the time had come to move to a powerboat.

After sailing their first yacht Vagabond in the Spencer Gulf Regatta in February and March of this year, Debi and Hillar Puvi were left with good memories and a better appreciation of the features of that boat such that it encouraged them to think about something a little bigger.

The requirements were that the new boat had to fit into their berth at the CYCSA, it had to be comfortable (aka, luxurious), have good support in Adelaide, have good resale value and should be a sports cruiser style with hard top and windows.

After hours of web surfing it seemed that a Riviera 4000 would fit the bill nicely. The web revealed that there were none available in Adelaide but a few for sale in Sydney so they booked flights. There was Bella Dama, a late model Riviera 4000, waiting for them in Middle Harbour. After spending a couple of weeks on her in Sydney Harbour, the Pittwater and the Hawkesbury River, she came to her new home at the CYCSA. Bella Dama is powered by two 450 horsepower Caterpillar diesels with electronic throttles – what a dream to manoeuvre and what fun at speed with the spray flying past – all this and under two hours to Port Vincent, berth to berth.

The large outside cockpit area where you can sit and enjoy the scenery whether at sea or in their berth has proven to be a winner. Visibility is excellent from the helm through huge glass windows and there’s lots of room in the helm area where they can both sit at the helm with the skipper (Maizie, the dog). Below is a good kitchen, heads and walkaround berth and with ample ship’s power, they have all the luxuries, including air conditioning. The support from Riviera is also excellent.

Later in April, Vicsail in Sydney spoke with Hillar about a 2006 Beneteau 523 Oceanis named Golden Cowrie which they were trading in in May. This boat offered more space and a number of features which would make sailing more comfortable so, after plenty of discussion and importantly Vicsail’s willingness to accept Vagabond as a trade-in, they agreed to a purchase. Golden Cowrie left the Royal Yacht Squadron in Sydney in early May and was delivered safely here by her delivery crew in mid-May. Some of the ‘extra features’ that make Golden Cowrie so livable are a generator, inverter, en-suite bathroom with separate shower, dishwasher, microwave and a television – all the bits just like at home!

Hillar commissioned a number of local people to detail, repair, replace and generally bring Golden Cowrie to showroom condition and in September they took delivery of a first class boat.

The Spencer Gulf Regatta gave them a taste for cruising and they have locked in plans to sail Golden Cowrie to Kangaroo Island for the Ballast Head festivities early in 2014 and after the Island Beach event intend to sail along the north coast of Kangaroo Island and over to Port Lincoln with Chris and Gina Wood as their guests.

Golden Cowrie is a welcome addition to the Club.

In summary Owen states that Bella Dama is ideal for two people to live comfortably while on board.

lutzy Tony Cullen bought his boat, a 2005 Cobalt 360, in Sydney last year and had it road freighted to the Club. When it arrived he found there were a few problems so after Arnos Marine solved those issues Tony took finally took delivery in late May. The boat was built in the United States and was one of three bought into Australia.

It is powered by two 494 cubic inch Mercury Magnum Bravo Engines which together produce 850 horsepower – obviously built for speed.

Tony named it after Gavin Lutz who introduced him to water and boats back in 1988. He passed away two years ago and it is named Lutzy in memory of Gavin.

No sooner do I finally get around to including Lutzy in the New Boats section of the magazine when Tony informs me he is thinking of trading it in for a sail boat which means of course that there will soon be another ‘New Boat’ at the Club.

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RACING ASSOCIATION

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he Racing Executive welcomes back all the Racing Members to the 2013-2014 summer season. Over the break between the winter and summer season the REX put together a programme to suit as many boats as possible to try and attract some healthy fleet numbers. A variety of series were again offered to any boats willing to partake. Unfortunately we had to cancel a couple of series due to a lack of entrants however we have once again got strong numbers into our Club Inshore, Coaster, Offshore, SA IRC State Championships, and of course, the ever popular Twilight Series.

Short-Handed Series

Many thanks go out to the Racing Executive for their help over the season break. The support shown by REX members ensured that the new racing season will go ahead successfully while Jess is out of the office. The Racing Executive welcomes two new members, Adrian Wotton and Shevaun Bruland, as well as welcoming back last years executive members, Chairman Traci Ayris, Vice-Chair William Strangways, Rob Sellick, Mark Hutton, John Gibson, Brenton Pegler and Roger Nicolson.

Thanks go to Canegrass Saltbush Lamb for donating a meat pack for the winner each week as well as a meat pack or two for the after race BBQ. Many thanks to John Gibson, Ron Yeates and George Ottewell for their efforts on CYC2 to provide a special course to suit the two crew members on board each boat.

In its second year running the Canegrass Short-Handed Series was again successful with seven boats competing. School’s Out, G-Wizz, Carioca, Seduction, Take 5, Stockcar and Outrageous were the seven boats willing to test themselves with the two handed series.

Out of the six possible races the last two races unfortunately had to be abandoned due to some blustery conditions for Race Five and a lack of wind for Race Six. However, even though two races were abandoned, the series was still a great success with all of the racers enjoying some good quality fun racing over the winter.

Hopefully the Short-Handed Series will continue to grow in popularity for the up-coming season. If you are looking to sail in the Short-Handed Series be sure to let the Race Office know!

PRMS WINTER SERIES

The Port Line Cup regatta was held on Sunday 4 August with a big fleet anticipated for the regatta. Although Saturday 3 August was very rugged with 30+ knots and rain for the Port Adelaide Sailing Club, the Ice Breaker Series entrants in the Port Line Cup were greeted with 10 to 12 knots north/west to westerly breezes for the duration of the race. The course was set in the traditional manner so there was ample chance for skippers and crews to show their skills reaching, on the wind and running.

There were 45 entrants but only 40 starters who all made it to the finish line. On PHS the first 36 yachts finished within 10 minutes and 43 seconds. The overall fastest was Aikin from the RSAYS. The first 20 yachts on corrected time were shared around between five Clubs with eight from the PASC, five from CYCSA, five from RSAYS, one from Henley Yacht Club and one from Christies Beach Yacht Club.

The Division One Series was split up between both Clubs with That’s Life and Slipknot from the CYCSA claiming first and third respectively and Horopito from the RSAYS taking out second place.

Division Two was also split up between the two Clubs with Rock On from the CYCSA gaining first place and Take 5 and Allouette from RSAYS taking second and third. Both Clubs joined together after Race Six at the CYCSA for the presentation of the results where the interclub relationship between the two Clubs was shown as many crews came together around the patio area creating a great atmosphere to finish the winter season off.

Congratulations to Greg Manuel and the crew from That’s Life who won both the Division One and Overall results.

Two Rock On Trevor Conyers Julia Richard Harries El Fideldo Doug Watson

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William Strangways, REX Committee

The Port River Marine Winter Series was again successful much due to our sponsors Leica and Jim Theodore from Port River Marine.

Both Leica and Jim put in extra effort coming down to the Club for all six races and even providing extra prizes for the winners of each race giving the fleet extra reward for their efforts! The Club series, much like the combined series, was very close right up until the last race. Congratulations to the winner and placegetters of the Port River Marine Winter Series:

Division First Second Third

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Port Line Cup

The colder months did not seem to faze those who competed in the CYCSA and Combined Series with some competitive racing and spirit shown regardless of the smaller fleets. This competitive spirit was shown throughout both Clubs with four boats in Division One fighting for first place right up until the final race.

One That’s Life Greg Manuel Slipknot Seb Bohm Doctor Feelgood Jason Coonan

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Jon Hentschke, Acting Race Manager

Once again the RSAYS and CYCSA joined together to provide a great series for those willing to brave the cold and wet months of winter. The successful series would not be able to go ahead without the support from the Duty Crews. The volunteers from CYC1, CYC2, Miss Robyn and Wilbur without fail provided a great course and a great race for the Winter Series fleet every week.

Division First Second Third

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Greg Manuel and the crew congratulated on their results

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Recreational an

d Sports Boating

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ummer is back and the CYCSA Marine Academy has been running some successful courses. Our September Start Powerboating course saw twelve people hit the water for practical sessions which covered boating rules, safety and practical handling. This is a great course for understanding the practical components of driving a powerboat through expert instruction to learn concepts such as the factors that influence a boat’s manoeuvrability. These factors include: • Windage - how the wind affects the boat’s steering and stopping caused by the size of the boat and conditions on the day.

• Pivot Point - understanding the turning point of the boat helps you park and know if you have enough space to turn. It’s different in forward and reverse.

• Momentum - the motion of the boat after putting it into neutral.

Remember the boat won’t stop till you have tied it to the dock!

• Stream - the boat’s ability to stay on track while under momentum.

A yacht has great stream because of its keel.

• Propeller Warp - the spinning of the propeller while under motor affects the direction of the boat.

• Steered - boats with an inboard engine and a rudder behind a fixed propeller can be steered while under momentum whereas an outboard or stern drive requires propulsion and direction from the propeller.

The best way to think about the manoeuvrability of a powerboat or yacht under power is to understand that it’s much more like a misbehaving shopping trolley than driving a car! Our next powerboat course is coming up in January – enrol now!

Day Skipper Theory continues to grow in popularity. More and more people are joining us to develop a strong knowledge base of how to successfully enjoy boats. Learning the techniques of how to navigate and safely use your boat in a theoretical application is essential for your enjoyment and the safety of your crew. Our popular Day Skipper Theory course does this and more! Day Skipper Theory is run in two parts being ‘Safety and Seamanship’ and ‘Navigation’. Run on Monday nights in the Kinnaird Room our next course (Navigation) is scheduled to start on 10 March 2014.

The Marine Academy’s first Day Skipper Practical was completed at the start of September with four students embarking on a Five Day Liveaboard Course. Utilising the Port River as a safe harbour at Marina Adelaide, students began their course in blustery conditions. Thankfully the conditions improved for a Gulf crossing over to the Port Vincent Marina.

Student feedback has been extremely positive for this first Liveaboard course and it has been deemed a great success. We have two Five Day Liveaboard Courses planned for January and we can guarantee if you are out cruising the gulf this summer, Academy 1, our flagship training yacht, will be out there sharing our magnificent pristine waterways with you!

Marine Radio is always a fantastic course to not only learn about good marine radio practices but to also gain the required licence. This year we will be running an intensive two-day course on 17 and 18 January prior to the Adelaide to Lincoln Race.

Australia’s first National Discover Sailing Day saw 42 unique bookings for a free sail with the Marine Academy. A great day was had by all participants and we will be running another in the new year so please tell your friends. It’s been designed especially for those who have always wanted to get out on the water and enjoy a fun day out with friends and family. More information will be available soon.

Matt Young, Principal CYCSA Marine Academy

CYCSA Marine Academy’s First Five Day Liveaboard Course

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s members would be aware the CYCSA Marine Academy recently became a RYA/YA accredited training centre and this enabled us to run our very first Five Day Liveaboard Course from 30 September to 4 October. Unfortunately the weather forecast was not so kind showing 25 to 35 knots from NW to SW for the first three days!

Not a great forecast for getting across the Gulf...

Paul, Graeme, Dave and Mark joined me for the week all aiming to complete the Day Skipper syllabus. After provisioning the boat, going through all the safety drills and getting to know each other, we set off for the Port River. Sailing in the river while the first front blew in was quite challenging; pilotage, reefing sails, watching the sounder and a range of sailing skills were all taught and practised during the first day. Thanks to Marina Adelaide for a cozy first night tucked in well away from the stiff sou’wester.

Day two brought similar winds and berthing in the marina was the first skill practised. More river sailing was followed by a good bash out at sea after which we berthed again at the CYCSA. Unfortunately Wednesday brought us mechanical problems and the morning was spent planning four different passages and pilotage plans for the rest of the week. This was a great session for the guys and the Marina West clubroom really came into its own. The afternoon session was spent doing a circuit near Crown Marina involving a windward berth, a lee berth, springing off, picking up a mooring and handling whatever the blustery wind could throw at us. It is amazing what you can achieve without even leaving the harbour.

The fourth day saw the wind bend to the south and ease to 20 knots reducing more during the day. All the planning paid off and we had a pleasant and efficient trip across to Port Vincent.

Lunch was had out in the middle along with the odd cup of tea. The bay at Port Vincent provided a perfect spot for some upwind/downwind sailing skills and many a man overboard exercise. The highlight was picking up moorings late in the day under sail and motor with tidal flow to boot. In the evening the Ventnor Hotel lived up to its reputation for great meals and a very convenient courtesy bus.

On Friday the guys skippered in turns and brought me safely home in a consistent northerly. Arriving early afternoon gave us time to do some more berthing, tricky anchoring exercises and some tidal height exercises based on some of the week’s other planning. All participants seemed happy at the end of the week and the debrief was positive for all. Three Day Skippers and one Competent Crew were all acceptable based on previous experience. I am really looking forward to the next Liveaboard Course knowing now what can be achieved in some very handy locations. Living onboard with the crew creates a much closer and valuable learning experience and I can strongly recommend it to Day Skipper and Competent Crew candidates.

Brett Yardley, RYA/YA Chief Instructor

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organised a BBQ feast on the Saturday night adjacent to Dock One where there were many yachts moored. A small contingent of CYCSA cruisers joined in the fun and we all found ourselves thinking that maybe the Port is starting to find its feet again.

e have had an excellent start to the cruising season this year. Since I last wrote about the ‘Pop Up Cruise’ to Port Vincent in May there have been no less than three organised cruises not to mention numerous barbeques and the Opening Day festivities.

We have an enthusiastic committee on the Cruising Association – a number of new initiatives have been taken including donations of wine for a free raffle at the “Second Saturday BBQs” by Rolly Tasker Sails and a meat tray which was provided for a similar raffle initially

by Mike Draper and more recently by Bravo Sails. Come along to the Second Saturday BBQ and you might end up not just making some new friends but taking home a bottle of wine or a magnificent meat tray!

Mike Draper has also commissioned a magnificent Cruising Association flag (and a number of banners) which will fly at all of our functions.

Charlesworth Nuts continues their strong support of the Association and have provided a robust banner which will double nicely as a wind break for more exposed locations.

Tall Ships came to Port Adelaide at the end of August en route to the Naval Centenary Celebrations in Sydney. A number of yachts and motorboats including the Falie and the One & All headed out to welcome the three Dutch Tall Ships, Oosterschelde, Europa and Tecla, and were treated to the spectacular sight of the crew dressing the rigging of Europa off Semaphore. We all motored into a northerly until we rounded Pelican Point and then sails were hoisted for the trip up the Port River and into the inner harbour. It was a spectacular sight watching Europa sailing though the massive lifting bridges of the Expressway and railway sweetened even more by having three CYCSA yachts following her in line astern. Five of our yachts stayed in the Port from that Wednesday night, Sahara, Baloo, Alpha Centauri, Force Majeure and Jenny Anna. The English Sail Training Ship Lord Nelson pulled in the next day just up from our berths at Dock One to complete the picture. By the weekend many other boats had joined us. The Dock One Marina and the Fisherman’s Wharf Marinas were both packed with sailing vessels of all sizes and shapes. More than 40 CYCSA members and friends enjoyed dinner at The Port Dock Brewery Hotel on Saturday night. A real carnival atmosphere pervaded the Port for the week and was topped off with a massive flotilla including dozens of CYCSA boats farewelling the three Dutch Ships on Sunday 1 September – a very memorable Father’s Day.

Our Second Saturday Barbeques (BYO everything) are being well attended and are a great opportunity to pick up boat and cruising tips as well as being a lot of fun. The BBQs run from September through to May and generally get started some time after 6:30pm. A number of cruises are planned over the summer to various destinations, most are open to all comers and we are advertising the details on the SA Cruisers Google Group. Please join the group as it is one of the most useful ways of communicating quickly between members. You can choose between Port Lincoln, the Joseph Banks Group of Islands, Kangaroo Island and The Ballast Head Cup… there may even be a cruise to Tasmania next year!

The committee is working towards improving the facilities at Port Vincent Marina which now has a larger flatter paved area. We will also be repairing the damaged mooring at Edithburgh and are considering placing some moorings at Stansbury. In an attempt to give some old salts the opportunity to get back out onto the water we will soon be more formally publicising a group called the “Charlesworth Old Salted Nuts”. If you know anyone who might enjoy the chance for a leisurely sail please let us know. A number of women have also expressed interest in a “women’s only” boat handling and sailing course which we are presently in the early stages of planning.

The traditional October Long Weekend cruise to Port Vincent was well attended and with the Fishing Association having a major event there it was hard to tell how many came for the cruising but a good weekend was had by all.

The Port turned it on again in October with the Port Adelaide Festival. Many activities were planned and crowds once again swarmed all over the place. Food, art, crafts, tours, sailing dragon boats and many other events had everybody involved. The Port Adelaide Sailing Club played host to the on-water activities and

Richard Lea, Chairperson Cruising Association Photo by Richard Lea

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cruising Association

11

October Long Weekend

W

ith the security from inclement weather offered by the marina, Port Vincent has become a popular season opening trip for CYCSA members over the October Long Weekend which is historically notorious for rapidly changing weather conditions.

The weather forecast for the long weekend this year was for cool, even chilly temperatures, but the on-waters forecast promised a more pleasant outlook for a crossing on the Friday night or the Saturday morning.

Baloo seized on the opportunity of fine conditions to sail a day earlier and was joined by Matador, From Russia With Love, Kudos and Portia. There were no takers for a mooted night crossing and so it was Saturday lunchtime before Sugar ‘n’ Spice and finally, Setanta put to sea. The temperature was a miserable 13 degrees and the wind was about 7 to 12 knots from the W-SW inside the marina but happily it picked up to around 15 knots from the NW as we gained sea room and hoisted the main and unrolled the headsail. The day initially developed into ideal sailing conditions: the winds were consistent, the waters slight to one metre and the sun gradually improved the overall comfort level. Around half distance the wind strengthened and reefing became necessary with gusts of 25-28 knots not uncommon. We arrived at Port Vincent Marina after an exhilarating trip but too late for a traditional stroll into town for a newspaper and an iced green tea.

For the first time in five or six years the marina was full over the October Long Weekend due to the Fishing Association having organised a competition. A mooted Cruising Association table at the Ventnor Hotel on Saturday evening for the cruisers did not eventuate leading to considerable congestion outside the men’s ablutions entrances which still remains the only BBQ wind break. This led to some justifiable short tempered exchanges between those wishing to access the showers and the denizens of the various tables and chairs occupying the doorways.

Sunday dawn was grey but conditions looked as though they might improve so the usual round of strolls into town, socialising on board and social sailing in the local Port Vincent waters got into full swing by lunchtime. A few boats shared on board BBQs for Sunday dinner and there was some late carousing.

The conditions for the return to the CYCSA on Monday belied the forecast which was for WNW breezes of around ten knots and instead we found NNE of around twelve knots which then threatened to veer east before a good sailing sea breeze from the WNW set in. This eventually and inevitably died out halfway across which required a motor-sail home in slight but rising seas.

Robert Perrin, on board Sugar’n’Spice

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SOCIAL ACTIVITIES Association

GIRLS NIGHT IN

@

THE CYCSA

C

an we call it the Annual Girls Night In? … as this awesome charity event is now in its fourth year from inception!

Friday 18 October marked the date and this time around our Social Activities Association focused more on diversification of product rather than just beauty services. Yes, there were still manicures, pedicures and massage, but we also opened the event to other retailers who were kind enough to donate time and product to such a worthy charity, Breast Cancer SA.

The night kicked off for some in Mariners Restaurant around 6pm with guests and presenters taking advantage of the blackboard specials Dorian our chef had organised. The Dockside Bar and patio area was ready to go at 7.00m where our lovely guests registered with Pam, Vicki, Bernadette and Jude then were shown to their table and fabulously fleeced of gold coins for lucky dips and raffles by our gorgeous helpers Tymika, Heather, Riannon and Freya.

The usual pampering and schmoozing ensued over the course of the evening with guests enjoying a great fashion showcase of summer arrivals from Crossroads’ new store at Adelaide Place and a burlesque mini-class with the vivacious Nona-Mona of Peaches ’N’ Gin Burlesque Academy. The raffles were drawn and the silent auction winning bidders announced and all in all another successful event was recorded donating an amount of $3000 to Breast Cancer SA. This event is always a success due to the overwhelming generosity of local community and like-minded business people.

All prizes of product and service were graciously donated and I would like to thank Winemakers Retreat, The Stag Hotel, Bessimer Cookware, EverettBrookes, Fifth Avenue Jewellery, Zeal Beauty and Adelaide Day Spa, Secure-Cat Adelaide, O’Gee Bakery at Magill, Berry Pop Sensations Unique Edible Centrepieces, Pamper Me By Libby, Jetts Fitness St Morris, Mabe Hair at Kensington and Mix-A-Lot Cup Cakes, for their awesome support. A special vintage pink fluffy frosting thank you must go out to Gina Irving and Emma Pinnington of LizzieKate Cakes: gorgeous cupcakes ladies! They make a blissfully delicious centrepiece for us each year and outdid themselves this time!

Our stellar Social Activities Association never cease to give me warm fuzzies and I am again very privileged to be part of a team of people who make things happen with effortless pizazz. Our volunteers Heather, Riannon, Freya, Tymika, Leica, Bernadette, Jude, Sofia Humeniuk and Chrissy, love your work ladies!

Thank you!

Morag Draper, Social Activities Association 13

Ice Fishing O

ur journey to Far North Levi Finland in the Arctic Circle was on day six of our family holiday and our third stop after St Petersburg for three nights and then Moscow for three nights. We arrived at Levi at 6:30pm from Moscow after a journey aboard two trains, two planes and one bus.

After a quick check in and unpack in our room we ventured out for a look. It was cold and covered in pure white dust. We were amazed at how pure and clean it was. As we walked through various alleys and streets every turn proved more stunning than the last. It was so picturesque and we were glad to have booked for a four day stay but could see it should have been longer.

We started off easy the next day to have a good look around and soon learnt that dawn is not until 10am with dusk falling at 2:30pm - I’d love these working hours! Levi’s main attraction is the many ski slopes but it also had many other activities to offer which we planned to do.

The first adventure was a husky sled ride which we booked for the following day and was a great experience. We had a two person sled, me steering (mush, mush) and my wife at the front enjoying the ride (freezing her xxx’x off). As the guide readied the sled and hooked up the dogs the howling began, (no not the wife... the dogs) and the dogs went into a frenzy. These dogs, the guide advised, are built to run and once they see the sleds all they want to do is race and get ahead of the other sleds. It was full on and it was surprising how much power these dogs have. Once you release the brakes on the sled you had best be ready as off the dogs go and the race begins. As we raced on we

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went through some fantastic landscapes. By this time it was 3pm and twilight in Levi which gave our surroundings an eerie feel as we crossed many freezing lakes through the maze of forest tracks. On the return journey we were lucky enough to see the sled ahead of us flip and drag its occupant (an old lady) along before the dogs came to a stop.

Thankfully there were no injuries but it was all good fun to watch.

The following day we embarked on our guided fishing adventure arriving at the meeting location at 10am. It was minus -8°C and the snow was falling gently. To get to the frozen lake where we would be fishing consisted of a self driven 45 minute snowmobile ride through a maze of frozen lakes and deep forest tracks lined with snow covered conifers. Even though we had our own winter clothing, which to us seemed sufficient, we were instructed to change into thermal overalls, boots and thick gloves that were provided for us to combat the wind chill factor we would experience while snowmobiling at over 60kph.

Once dressed we were off with my wife on the back and me at the controls. The scenery was magic as we travelled deeper and deeper into the forest. Winter was truly setting in and the wind chill temperatures ranged from -8°C to -25°C across the ice lakes as we powered across. It was so cold that the camera froze (Nikon 3100 and even our mobile was no go) and would not take photos until warmed up through body heat.

We arrived at a couple of huts at the edge of a large secluded lake covered in a healthy layer of snow and surrounded by a snow covered forest... truly post card stuff.

All the fishing equipment was provided and consisted of an ice scoop and an aunger which we used to drill through the ice covering the lake.

The rod of choice was a 14” rod; yep, just over a foot in length and reel. It looked similar to a toy you would give your grandchild. Bait of choice was a red blood arctic maggot, quite pretty in colour, which was feed onto a single hook. We were also provided with a fold out stool and a small axe to stun and bleed any catch.

After picking our own spot we began drilling the ice which was approximately half a metre in thickness. Drilling was much easier than I thought it would be and once completed we gently lowered our baited hook through the hole passing through the thick layer of ice and then into the water until it touched the bottom of the lake. Then all that was needed was to pull up a chair, jiggle the bait up and down and wait typical fishing but it was all good though; I had my beer chilling on the ice!!

After about 20 minutes as I was jigging my line through the 6” diameter hole in the ice the infamous fisherman’s doubt set in and I began to wonder if there were in fact fish here and, if so, how could I possibly pull one up through such a small hole? In the meantime we continued to scoop out the ice as it formed across the small hole.

So there I was jigging away when bang! I had a bite and the little rod went crazy. In the time it took me to realise what was happening I was slow to set the hook and when I got to it the fish came off... disappointment. I re-baited and got the line back in; we only had two hours to fish so time was running out.

After another half an hour passed without a single bite I looked across the lake and noticed the occasional fish was being pulled in by other groups. It was definitely time to try a different spot. I grabbed my aunger and moved closer to the lake edge thinking there would more likely be structure there for the fish to hide. Hole drilled, ice scooped out, hook baited and in it went. I slowly lowered it to the bottom of the lake then pulled up a fraction, pulled up the chair and sat down. Then bang! The fish bit hard, but I was ready this time. My reflexes kicked in and I set the hook; the little rod was straining under the weight and the line was moving widely from side to side in the constraints of the hole. I wasn’t sure what I had on the line but it was fighting hard. I reeled in, it pulled on the line, and the excitement of dragging something out from below the ice was unbelievable! Finally, though the fish was beginning to tire and as I continued reeling, it slowly began to come up. It seemed to take forever before I saw it coming up through the hole. One final pull and it was on the ice - a fantastic trout – success!

After coming over to take photos for us the guide offered to clean and cook the trout over coals in the ice hut. The offer was too good so we thought why not? Once cooked we offered to share it with the others in our group. It was fresh and delicious and all too soon completely devoured. What a fantastic way to finish off the fishing trip.

Before long it was time to depart. After a quick pack up it was back to the snow mobiles for the scenic trip back. It was another great ride and we got back close to dusk at almost 2pm with some wonderful memories and great photos.

John Colella, Deputy Chair Fishing Association 15

Technology Update

1

That’s a

By Samuel and Owen Mace

L

et’s look this time at a potential problem for all of us boaties – carbon monoxide. No, no, I’m not talking politics, carbon tax and environmental change - maybe next time. Nope, this is a safety issue for us, so let’s look at it carefully.

Carbon monoxide (the chemical symbol is CO) is nasty stuff and quite distinct from the carbon dioxide (CO2) that gets the pollies steamed up. CO is a gas that can kill you on your boat so listen up!

Properties

Carbon monoxide is a colourless, odourless and tasteless gas, so it’s impossible for us humans to detect. Worse, it’s toxic in small amounts. Worse again, it’s effects are cumulative over a few hours and worse yet again, it’s also a bit heavier than air meaning that it can accumulate in bilges and cabins, see reference 1. Yes it can, and does, kill people regularly.

If you breathe in small amounts of CO, and I’m talking less than one molecule of CO per thousand of air, the CO replaces the oxygen that is attached to the hæmaglobin in your blood.

This means that instead of oxygen being transported around your body to where it’s needed (muscles and brain), you are starved of oxygen, get sick and may eventually die. Trouble is, once attached to your blood hæmaglobin, CO takes quite a few hours to be detached, so that oxygen can once again be properly moved around your body.

Symptoms of CO Poisoning

The web literature suggests that symptoms can include light headedness, confusion, nausea, dizziness, convulsions, headaches, vertigo, and flu-like effects (reference 2). Nausea is

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not helpful for boaties as we might think that it is a case of sea sickness.

The symptoms depend on the length and level of exposure to carbon monoxide as you would expect. Have a look at the graph in reference 3.

Reference 4 has a good explanation for the biologically minded. (Not me.)

Where Does CO Come From?

The quick answer is that CO commonly comes from improperly burned fuels. Where there is an inadequate air supply to allow all the carbon in a fuel to be burnt to carbon dioxide some is burned to CO. Burning fuel that produces carbon dioxide requires twice the amount of atmospheric oxygen compared to producing CO. Thus any device that burns a carbon-based fuel is a potential source of CO. All common fuels (LPG, diesel and petrol) are carbon-based – hence the issue with carbon dioxide as a greenhouse gas.

There are numerous potential sources of CO at home, see reference 5. In addition, wood fires can also be a problem.

In Boats

There are at least two potential sources of CO on board and both arise from burning carbon-based fuels. In the cabin poorly adjusted gas appliances such as cook tops, ovens and heaters are candidates. Your gas fitter will adjust the gas and air flow to ensure that the fuel is properly burned and there is minimal chance of CO build up. CO detectors are available and should be fitted and used whenever gas is burning in the enclosed space of the galley.

2

3

Photo 1, 2 and 3: Three screen shots showing how exhaust fumes can be trapped behind the cabin of a boat. The blue is air flowing left to right and the red is the exhaust fumes. Thanks to www.algorizk.com and Sam.

Gas, Man The other source of course is any motors on board used for propulsion or for generating electricity. These generally exhaust overboard and so should not be a problem. Or are they?

There’s an iPad app called wtunnel-pro that visualises air flows. So with the help of my grandson (thanks, Sam), we built a model of a boat and set it in motion so that we could see the flow of air around the boat. Next, Sam added an engine exhaust to see how the exhaust fumes flowed away from the boat – have a look at the sequence of three screen shots that he captured. See how the red exhaust fumes get captured behind the cabin. If you happened to be sitting there admiring the view and there was carbon monoxide in the exhaust you might be gassed – fatally. People have died as a result of fumigation by a boat’s exhaust. (Ain’t tablet apps grand?)

Okay, it’s only a very simple demonstration and there are lots of limitations with the simulation, but nevertheless we see that exhaust fumes from boat engines can make their way into passenger areas of boats with potentially bad results. Very bad results. So be aware of the danger.

There are some good tips on the SA government web site, see reference 6.

References

1 https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Carbon_monoxide 2 https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Carbon_monoxide_poisoning 3 http://www.engineeringtoolbox.com/carbon-monoxide-d_893.html 4 http://biology.about.com/od/molecularbiology/a/carbon_monoxide. htm 5 http://www.productsafety.gov.au/content/index.phtml/ itemId/985239 6 http://www.sa.gov.au/subject/Transport%2C+travel+and+motorin g/Boating+and+marine/Boat+and+marine+safety/Boating+safely/ The+dangers+of+carbon+monoxide

If you happened to be sitting there admiring the view and there was carbon monoxide in the exhaust you might be gassed – fatally. People have died as a result of fumigation by a boat’s exhaust.

What to do about about CO on board

As we mentioned, small amounts for long periods can result in illness, permanent disability and death, so some care should be exercised whenever fuel is burned on board. Quite apart from the danger of fire!

Gas appliances should be properly adjusted, and detectors fitted and used.

Engines should be properly exhausted overboard. Check for exhaust leaks into the engine room. Beware of the possibility of fumes being trapped behind, and even in, the cabin as you motor along. If you can smell burnt diesel fumes change direction or speed or both to let the fumes be blown away from the boat.

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his year on 26 October we were blessed with some truly wonderful weather for our Opening Day. It was warm and sunny with a nice light breeze - we could not have asked for better. Members and their guests turned out in force to enjoy the Club atmosphere, entertainment and camaraderie of this special day on the CYCSA calendar.

For the third year running the Sail Past was held within the confines of the North Haven Harbour. Powerboats left their berths at 1230 led by Tess McGrath on Andante and were followed by the yachts at approximately 1300, led by Kevin Cook on behalf of Geoff Catt aboard Liberator. Over 60 power and sail vessels participated and their colourful flags and decorations (both boat and crew!) created quite a spectacle as always. The judges were hard pressed to come to an agreement over the ‘best dressed’ sail past awards – winners are listed on page 20 and those that came close were honourably mentioned at the Official Ceremony.

Well done to all that participated, it really is a fantastic and fun tradition which showcases the seamanship of Club members.

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Following the Sail Past, the Official Presentation and Opening of the Sailing Season was held in Horizons Function Room where Commodore Geoff Catt requested the help of President Andrew Saies to present the following awards to their recipients: 25 Year Membership Badges Graham Averay, Betty Bishop, Roger Clark, Neil Cormack, Andrew Craddock, Robert Dagg, Errol Ford, Colin Gordon, Edward Gorkic, Geoff Gowing, Linda Hart, Peter Lucas, John McElhinney, Sarah McGrath, Robert Moore, Howard Morris, Brenton Pegler, Peter Sheridan, Leica Theodore, Joe Walker, Peter Went, Bevan White and Geoff Wiggins. Those that couldn’t be in attendance on the day received their badges in the post. Congratulations and thanks to all on your outstanding support of the Club. ...continued on page 20

Club Flag Officers take the salute during the sail past.

Club members and generous sponsors of the Unforgettable Challenge Mark and Lee-Anne Flanagan congratulate the winner, Royce Nicholls, skipper of Far Star.

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School’s Out crew with their Unforgettable Challenge runner-up prize from sponsor Charlesworth Nuts

Photos by Gerry Colella

Opening Day 2013 ...continued from page 18 Sail Past Awards Best Dressed Yacht: Best Dressed Power: Best Dressed Crew – Yacht: Best Dressed Crew – Power: Best Dressed Yacht - Novelty: Best Dressed Power – Novelty: Seamanship Award – Yacht: Seamanship Award – Power:

Hot Mustard Andante Coco B&B Liberator Time Slipknot Portofino

During the ceremony Geoff Catt officially welcomed Geoff Boettcher into his new role as Club Commodore. Geoff Boettcher has been a long standing member of the CYCSA and during this time represented the Club at major yachting events in Australia and internationally. He is a worthy successor to Geoff Catt who has been passionately involved in the Club for 18 years in many roles including as a Board Member, Treasurer, President and Commodore.

Once the formal celebrations were complete the Official Party and invited guests moved to the restaurant to enjoy a delicious Afternoon Tea prepared by Chef Dorian and his team. Others moved outside to enjoy the various live entertainment acts throughout the day including guitarists Russell and Jim, Blues Duo ‘Nate & Rubes’ and ‘Rockefellas’, a fantastic five piece band who played well into the night.

Once again the Unforgettable Challenge saw participants gather their teams to join in the competition for two excellent prizes. First prize was again donated by the very generous Mark and Lee-Anne Flanagan of Unforgettable Houseboats, being a weekend away on the Murray River, and second prize was kindly donated by Mark and Lisa Charlesworth of Charlesworth Nuts. Our sincere thanks to these wonderful members for their generosity and support.

This year there was a new event in the Challenge where participants played an interesting game of ‘eye spy’ along the sail past course and ashore around the Club to answer a number of trivia questions. A big thank you to Traci Ayris and the Racing Association for putting together a fun and challenging Sail Past Quiz!

The ‘Minute to Win It’ event was quite a challenge for some this year and provided a great spectacle for those who stopped to watch. The objective? Knock down as many water bottles as you could in one minute using a tennis ball placed inside a stocking which was then tied to your head. It took a certain technique that’s for sure - some knocked down all bottles with plenty of time to spare while others managed only two or three.

The buoy toss challenge was held in Marina East this year and we thank the Cruising Association for their time in running this event while the line casting was held in Marina West and run by members of the Fishing Association.

In the end only half a point separated first and second place in the Unforgettable Challenge. The winners were Far Star led by Royce Nicholls followed closely by Adrian Wotton’s team from School’s Out. Congratulations to our winners and well done to all our dedicated teams for participating. We hope you had fun.

The light began to fade but that didn’t stop the party as members and guests gathered on the patio to enjoy the delicious carvery buffet dinner and danced the night away to music by the fabulous five piece band ‘Rockefellas’.

Laura Cowley, Communications and Member Services

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Photos by Gerry Colella 21

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CLUB NEWS

SOLAS Cheque Presentation at the CYCSA

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ceremony was held at the Club on Saturday 9 November to present a cheque to John Burrow, Commodore of the South Australian Sea Rescue Squadron.

The cheque was presented by our new Commodore, Geoff Boettcher, on behalf of the Cruising Yacht Club of Australia’s (CYCA - NSW) Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS) Trusts.

This was Geoff’s first official duty on Club grounds as our new Commodore after he officially took over the role from Geoff Catt at the 2013 Opening Day Ceremony.

The funding of $8,900 will be used by the SA Sea Rescue Squadron to purchase new equipment including additional marine radios and a weather station for the Country Flotilla bases plus new brackets on two Adelaide based vessels to house radio and radar antennas.

The SA Sea Rescue Squadron has a proud record of volunteer service to the South Australian boating public for more than 53 years. During this time it has been involved in over 4,000 incidents many of which have been major search and rescue operations in conjunction with other Volunteer Marine Rescue organisations and the SAPOL Water Operations Unit.

The CYCA SOLAS Trusts were set up in 1999 as a result of the tragic events of the 1998 Sydney Hobart Yacht Race.

Their objectives are to – • Provide assistance (financial and other) to immediate families of those lost at sea during Yachting Australia sanctioned races;

• Make donations and provide support to search and rescue organisations; and • Foster and fund research and training to improve safety and rescue procedures and equipment used in ocean races.

Since the Trust was established in 1998 following the loss of life in that year’s Sydney Hobart Yacht Race more than $893,000 has been donated to organisations Australia-wide and the Trusts continue to explore new organisations to support.

Volunteering Survey Outcome

D

uring July and August a survey questionnaire was sent out to members on volunteering.

With over 100 responses the Club now has a wealth of new information on the interests of members wishing to contribute to the life of the Club in a variety of areas.

The Board has decided not to proceed with the establishment of a Volunteer Support Committee and the envisaged roles will be handled within existing structures.

Where interests have been expressed in joining particular committees by persons not already on those committees the Club is checking back with those people to get permission to pass their names on to the respective chairpersons. We are using that process because the information was sought in confidence to the Club and the Board.

In the case of Board Committees and interest in joining the Board, names of those who have expressed interest are on file and will be considered in matching skill sets as opportunities arise.

Where interests have been expressed in contributing to particular roles, including on and off water racing support, provision of spectator craft, photography, Club maintenance, repairs, gardening, IT and so on, the Club is in the process of matching those interests with opportunities available. In the event that you have expressed an interest in a particular area of volunteering and there has not been a follow up please feel free to contact the Club for an update on your expression of interest.

On behalf of the Board and the Club thank you to all who responded to the survey and also to Laura Cowley for her ongoing professionalism and enthusiastic assistance in the development and running of the survey.

David Murray, Board Member

Black Point Moorings

G

lenn Spear and Vlad Humeniuk, assisted by Peter Went, replaced the ground tackle on the Black Point moorings. Fishing Association members can use the moorings for free. Non-members are asked to contribute $20 per night towards on-going maintenance. You can contact the Club direct for further information.

Glenn Spear, Chairman Fishing Association 23

O

n our 2013 Rolex Fastnet entry form I was foolish enough to mention we would like to see which race was the ‘real deal’ when it came to the world’s best offshore yacht race. The RORC Press Conference gave some indication of the international talent the Race attracts and gave the media a chance to take me to task on my comment.

After Secret Mens Business 3.5’s (SMB) Rolex Sydney to Hobart win in 2010 the crew decided to take a break from the race the following year. On Boxing Day there is nothing more depressing than watching the live coverage of the start of the Hobart Race from your lounge chair. After competing in 2012 and clocking up 23 Sydney to Hobart yacht races something I had always wanted to do was to compete in the Fastnet Race. Over a ‘quiet little drink’ at a crew ‘Lodge Meeting’ it was decided SMB should be transported to the UK to race in the infamous race.

Our winning Hobart team mainly consisted of local South Australian’s bolstered by several semi-professional interstate crew. We retained this core crew for the Fastnet and were privileged to have Englishman Will Best assist our navigator Steve Kemp.

SMB was loaded on a ship out of South Australia on 6 April for its Pacific Cruise through the Panama arriving in Ipswich in the United Kingdom two months later. Nicely packaged by our boat manager, Tim Cowen, the yacht travelled in its complete form as deck cargo.

We picked a few Cowes Week races as preparation for the ‘Big Race’. The weather was light for this Regatta and SMB was built for the heavy weather ‘slog’ to Hobart.

Our prayers for a heavy Fastnet Race were overlooked leaving the more religious light weather skippers and boats a good chance to do well.

The start in the Solent became a wall of sails as different divisions joggled for a good start position. Not prepared to give up the helm until I passed the famous Needles I found this long beat spectacular. From Grand Prix racers to mums, dads and kids all on a lifetime experience. And how polite when they had right of way but called us through. It was either the terror of a yacht approaching at over twice their speed or the Australian flag that put them in panic mode.

The interesting part of the ‘Big Race’ was to come when we took two days to beat to the Fastnet Rock and a few miles away we became becalmed. After ghosting to the Rock we had an unpleasant wind shift that delivered a beat back home for most of the return leg and we were demoralized by the smaller fleet running towards the Rock under full kite. Quite late on the third night we received a wind shift allowing a tight reach and were eventually able to fly a kite. By that time the small boat fleet had rounded the Rock under kite and were able to shortly move back into another kite run. Quite unfair!!

SMB finished third in Division Z ahead of the professional teams of Ran and Belle Mente but behind the formidable opponent of Pace and the 80 foot Plis Play.

Cowes Week and the lead up to the ‘Big Race’ were excellent. A great traditional yachting venue. We have never seen so many yachties in one place. The Royal Ocean Racing Club staff were excellent and our treatment at Medina Boatyard and Cowes Yacht Haven exceptional.

How did the Fastnet compare with the Hobart Race? Perhaps difficult to comment as they are their own race. Hobart Races are notoriously rougher and tougher and this was confirmed by crew who have done both. In fact that Fastnet is only rated Category Two. The size of the Fastnet fleet is exciting to say the least. The Race will be a lasting memory for all our Aussie crew, wives and partners. Not a cheap exercise for the faint hearted but a must on the ‘Bucket List’. I thank the RORC and my crew for a great race.

Geoff Boettcher This article was prepared for the Royal Ocean Racing Club and adapted for Groundswell.

SMB 3.5 crew (from left): Tim Cowen, David Oliver, Steve Kemp, Andrew Van Essen, Adam Common, Charles Kosecki, Geoff Boettcher, Silas Nolan, Caillin Howard.

24

Photo courtesy of Rolex/Daniel Forster

The Fastnet Secret Mens Business 3.5 Rolex Fastnet Race

25

The Fastnet Two True Tarka Rolex Fastnet Race

26

I

n the months after Two True won the 2009 Rolex Sydney to Hobart, a number of interesting opportunities presented themselves both on and off the water. One of these occurred when a patient who came to see me mentioned that he was good friends with a ‘guy in England’ who sailed a Beneteau like me and who had also done the Fastnet a few times.

For all these reasons and more the race attracts huge interest.

This year entries were capped at 340 boats and closed on the first day that nominations opened on 7 January. Our campaign gained momentum in December 2012 when Peter Robson confirmed that a suitable racing condition First 40 was available for charter by me and my team of eight. The boat was successfully entered with RORC and the charter deal was done.

As a throw away remark I suggested that his friend might like to do a boat swap, my team sailing the 2011 Fastnet and his team coming Down Under to do the Rolex Sydney to Hobart that same year. I took contact details for Peter Robson, RORC Member, Beneteau 40.7 owner and a successful UK ocean campaigner and thereafter commenced a communication that would eventually see eight South Australians team up with two Brits to race the 2013 Rolex Fastnet. The end result; a chartered UK, racing condition, Beneteau First 40 specifically named for the race Two True Tarka entered in my name for the 2013 Fastnet.

No different to any major offshore race (Fastnet is Category 2) there were multiple safety and competency requirements (but not as arduous as Sydney to Hobart) to satisfy. The major issue for us was a RORC requirement that crew and boat must race together in a RORC offshore event to qualify for the Fastnet.

After submitting our credentials race organisers allowed us to qualify by undertaking a 300 nautical mile passage on Two True Tarka (TTT) in the week prior to the Fastnet. This sorted, the remaining requirements were easily met for a crew and boat that had qualified for previous Sydney to Hobarts.

The Fastnet was first raced in 1925 and the event also saw the formation that year of RORC, a club dedicated to hosting and running ocean races out of Cowes and famous for conceiving and hosting the international Admirals Cup Series until 1999. The Admirals Cup has been won by Australia only once and that was in 1979. That was also the year that the Fastnet was embroiled in a catastrophic storm with the loss of 15 lives. It is worth noting that one of the boats in that winning team was Police Car, sailed and entered by Jim Hardy with other South Australian’s Fred Neil and Mark Tostevin on board.

So after thousands of emails across three continents (Jonno Bannister our IT and logistics coordinator was living in America for most of the year) eight Two True Sydney Hobart experienced crew flew out of Adelaide on various airlines to meet in Hamble, England near Southampton, to set up our boat for the Fastnet on 5 August, six days before start time.

The Fastnet race is held every two years. The start is in the Solent off Cowes on the Isle of Wight. From the start the fleet sails west past the Needles to exit the Solent and sail along the south coast of England to Lands End. It then sails past the Scilly Islands around the Fastnet Rock to port then back east finishing in the historic port of Plymouth. The race distance is 608 nautical miles, just a bit shorter than the Sydney Hobart. The race is an east west, out and back event using the iconic and picturesque Fastnet Rock and lighthouse as a turning point. It is held at the end of summer when the prevailing breezes are 10 to 15 knot south westerlies interposed some years by intense low pressure systems and gale force winds back from the northwest then into the southwest across the Irish Sea as the low moves to the east.

Malaysian Airlines were great supporters and helped us get three spinnakers across to England without incurring excess baggage.

We rented a house in Hamble and spent the week before the race setting up the boat, doing our qualifying passage and getting to understand the tides of the Solent and the key headlands in the race, St Albans and Portland Bill.

Cowes Week was in full swing and we spent a great day taking in the atmosphere on the Isle of Wight and catching up with the boys from SMB 3.5. Back in Hamble TTT had taken over the King and Queen Hotel and Mike Clark so impressed the owner that he was presented with the battle flag of the pub to fly pre-start and was duly rewarded with a limited edition bottle of Mount Gay rum. The Pub atmosphere was friendly with many yachties from other parts of the world sharing a pint post racing in Cowes and leading up to the Fastnet. ...continued over the page

Photo courtesy of Rolex/Daniel Forster

27

Two True Tarka ...continued from page 27 With boat qualifying complete, boat nomination cleared for a start and our team entry finalised, Two True Tarka and crew were ready to start their first Fastnet. Those on board were Rob Last, Les De Wit, Mark Hutton, Jono Bannister, Felix Patterson, Alex Saies and Mike Clark along with our two British locals Peter Robson and Graham Castle.

Rob Last and I did our first Hobart together in 1980 on Dick Fidock’s Kestrel and as testament to the friendships that develop amongst those who go ocean racing, Rob was again on board with me for the Fastnet. His account of the race follows this report.

The day before the race I attended a voluntary weather briefing over in Cowes and learnt that the race office were deadly serious about penalising boats that sailed through maritime defined shipping lanes that were in effect large rectangular areas of seaway that were no go zones for small yachts as they were priority lanes for shipping. In previous years the rule had been that vessels should cross at 90º to these defined lanes but policing this had proved difficult and so a complete no go zone was defined for the purposes of the race. This in essence meant marking in large blocks of seaway that proved to be both virtual marks and virtual continuing obstructions. This addition to the race certainly made for some very interesting tactical and strategic planning in terms of deciding whether to go below, between or above these transition zones.

Heading back to Hamble I was advised that Peter Rutter, a past Commodore of RORC and a man who had spent some time in Australia hence naming his Grand Soleil 43 Quokka, had agreed to become a temporary CYCSA member enabling us to form a team of three boats for the Club competition within the Fastnet. The RORC race office itself was happy to see some “Down Under” international fun and interest brought into the event. For the first, but hopefully not the last time, the CYCSA had a “team” entered in the Fastnet.

I will conclude by saying that the whole experience was positively memorable and we all developed new friendships and associations that in particular have paved the way for us to pursue future northern hemisphere yachting events of this nature. For the Two True team its also the end of an era saying farewell to some of the crew including Les De Wit who has moved to Denmark to live and Alex Saies who now attends the University of Limerick in Ireland. To all the crew thank you for making the commitment, backing the program and turning up in Hamble on time! Finally my thanks on behalf of all of the crew to Jonno Bannister who did a fantastic job with logistics, planning, management and IT resources for the boat.

Andrew Saies

The Race aboard Two True Tarka

I

t was with mixed feelings that we bid adieu to our beautiful adopted home of Hamble-Le-Rice after a week spent preparing Two True Tarka, but it was a relief to have finished with job lists and feel as ready as we could be for all the challenges and unknowns of a long race. But we would miss our home away from home and the many friends we had made there, not to mention our favourite watering hole, the “King and Queen”.

Anyone who has undertaken the Passage Race to Geelong or who remembers the 1994 Hobart race will have some idea of the sight that met us as we motored south from Hamble inlet into the Solent with hundreds of boats from every direction all converging on the starting area which stretched north from Cowes virtually to the English coast. The entry list of 347 yachts included 300 in IRC and 47 other miscellaneous craft such as nine of the two handed Figaro class, eight of the single handed IMOCA 60s and 19 Class 40s as well as miscellaneous multihulls ranging up to the 40 meter Spindrift 2 which dwarfed the crew members aboard. The racing fleet was swelled by enormous numbers of spectator craft of every size and style and we threaded carefully through this chaotic fleet without incident. Two boats were not so lucky and their race was over before it began.

in the second IRC start, small boats starting first. It made for a very interesting beat west out of the Solent with larger and faster boats gradually overtaking us as we overtook the smaller boats and the Volvo boats catching us just short of the Needles and the exit from the Solent.

Tides are one of the major tactical challenges of the race but these have been comprehensively charted and the main flows and back eddies are quite predictable in their effect and strength for every part of the Solent and in every phase of the moon unlike the random eddies of current encountered in a Hobart race. Our two Brits had considerable experience with previous Fastnets and the Round Britain race as well as many other local races and proved invaluable interpreting all this data and placing us on the best bit of water.

Our qualifying sail had been a good opportunity to test the effect of tide on the critical parts of the first section of the race from the Solent to Portland Bill which is the first major tidal “gate” along the south coast. When the tide turns, there is virtually no slack water and each headland becomes a major obstacle accelerating the tidal stream. If the tide runs foul there is nothing for it but to take a long detour out to sea to clear the torrent rushing around the point.

Unlike a Hobart start there was only one starting line but eight starts, the first at midday with the giant multihulls and then ten minute intervals between each start. The “other” classes started before the IRC fleet which then got away in ascending order of size. As predicted, a light westerly prevailed and with the tide against us for the start our plan was to start towards the north end of the line and initially cover the north side of the Solent where the tide was weakest, before getting across to the southern side where the tide would first begin to turn in our favour. Fortunately we managed a clean start and were 28

We had a very scenic beat out of the Solent with white puffy (very English) clouds and a steadily building westerly. From the Needles the tide was with us giving a fast passage to Portland Bill which we approached as evening fell and the tide turned.

This was a nervous time as we had a very brief window to make the point before it would become quite impossible. We tacked inside the point as close as we dared, watching our leeway on the shore and short tacking off the rocks, before breathing a sigh of relief when

The Fastnet Rolex Fastnet Race

contend with. There was much discussion as to where to “thread the needle” but the sailing was the best so far with a good breeze at the right angle for the Code Zero that we had lugged across the world and later the Asymetric for some fast sailing to bring us homeward.

the Bill was abaft the beam and boats the other side rode an escalator eastwards while we escaped into the expanse of West Bay. The first night was cold but bright with stars and meteor showers and the most brilliant star of all shortly after dark which, if we had been shepherds, we would have followed to the manger. This “star” was a nightly visitor, the Space Station and we tried to imagine the humans hurtling above our heads and wondered if they knew of all these boats spread beneath them beating steadily westwards in a moderate to light breeze and slight sea.

Gazing seawards Clarky remarked that it was like being in a glow worm cave with green nav lights to the horizon and all points between.

Bishops Rock was another fabulous 19th century feat of engineering. Built from 2,500 tons of granite blocks all pre-shaped and key-stoned together on a wave swept rock ledge 46 metres by 16 metres, it took seven years to complete after the first attempt at a screw-pile structure was washed away in a heavy gale. This second attempt later had to be reinforced with a further 3,200 tons of granite which encased the original structure finally being completed in 1887 where it has withstood the full force of the Atlantic ever since. The men who built it may also have been made out of granite. From the sea it just looks like it emerges straight out of the ocean and a lonelier spot to be a keeper would be hard to imagine, although of course now it is fully automatic.

During the night we crossed the rhumb line and were now south of it, the breeze persistently on the nose and Plymouth (our final destination) now northwest of us at breakfast time. This was a very pleasant day sailing along the shoreline and noting dramatic differences of a knot or more in speed over the ground versus the log depending on tide. In the afternoon we closed the coast and the breeze trended north of west allowing us to sail due west as we approached Lands End, the final corner before the paddock of the Celtic Sea. We continued on westward towards the Scilly Isles as evening came on. Clearly visible on a shelf of rock was the famous Wolf Rock Lighthouse marking the entrance to the English Channel. A gentle sea contrasted with the dramatic poster photo you may be familiar with of the man in a cardigan standing nonchalantly at a door high up on the side of the lighthouse as a massive wall of water wraps around the lighthouse.

It was a glorious thing to feel the breeze coming further behind us as we charged home to Plymouth. With the S2 up for the first time in the race, a reward for many hours upwind, we passed Lands End as the final day closed. Fortunately the breeze held for the last night of the race and after the famous Lizard we had a square run up to the finish, finishing at dawn in spectacular Plymouth after three days 16 hours and 34 minutes and just 22 seconds on corrected time behind the “arch enemy” La Reponse (another First 40) but ahead of the other six First 40s. Overall on IRC we were 36th out of 287 to finish (and seventh in division). We were very happy to celebrate in traditional style with numerous well-earned breakfast ales in the bar tent which overflowed with camaraderie and excitement (and beer) and much post-race analysis in very loud voices.

We tacked short of the Scillies to head virtually north into the Celtic Sea as dark came on but were faced with the first of many tactical decisions resulting from the huge rectangular “no go” zones marking shipping lanes. We decided to head west again all that night before finally tacking and heading north with the new day but were still hard on the wind until in the afternoon the wind finally moved left and for the first time we were close reaching and making good speed towards the fabled rock.

It was tempting to make comparisons with the Hobart race and we were fortunate with a benign weather pattern, but it was certainly an easier race physically than any Hobart I have done and yet was in many ways more tactically demanding and certainly very scenic. There was always another corner approaching and plenty to see and do. This contrasts with “turn right at South Head, count five lighthouses (if you can see them!), then turn right at Tasman Island” to Hobart. Also the fleet was not just huge but with all the top boats from Europe and the UK and some from across the Atlantic (not to mention two Adelaide teams!), there was enormous depth of talent and experience. The overall winners were a father and son team from France (just the two of them and naturally they also won the two-handed division) and the French took twelve of the top fifteen positions overall for the race so it would be interesting to see how some of these boats would go in a Hobart.

“We have to be close!” The GPS showed us less than half a mile from Fastnet Rock, the psychological half-way mark in the race, but we could have been on another planet. We floated in a bubble of “Irish Mist” fog and rain which enveloped the boat and the pulpit nav lights marked the end of our little world. With no reference points we had no sensation of movement and even the sound of the passing water was muffled and distant. And then, less than quarter of a mile from the fabled Rock, a ghostly silhouette became discernible towering above us and we could make out the light rotating far above in the gloom which for me was more memorable than any picture postcard view may have been but not a great photo opportunity. We thought better of taking the “short cut”, a channel less than 10 metres wide, through a cleft in the rock.

Having rounded the rock and with a quartering sea in heavy fog, the steering presented some challenges as there were no reference points or horizon. Our instruments were somewhat dodgy and one helmsman experienced intense vertigo and literally fell over in the cockpit floor with dizziness. The only references were angle of heel and breeze on the face and an overly damped compass.

Overall this was a very memorable experience and I am very grateful to Andy Saies for providing the boat and opportunity, to Jonno for all the logistics, our two Brits Peter Robson and Graeme Castle and the whole team for being fabulous companions to sail and live with for an intense fortnight or so.

There was a separation mark to minimise the possibility of collisions and the next mark of the course was Bishops Rock on the Scilly Isles but again we had the continuing obstruction of the “no go” shipping lanes to

Rob Last

29

Celebrity, Back Friday and Vagab

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30

bond’s Spencer Gulf Cruise - 2013

C

lub boats Celebrity, Back Friday and Vagabond participated in the seventh organised cruise in Spencer Gulf known as the Gulf Trip and is a must for all local sailors. The Gulf Trip began 16 years ago when Alvin Atkinson and his group of friends came up with the concept to promote the cruising grounds of Upper Spencer Gulf. Alvin, a sprightly gentleman in his 80s, was on the cruise again this year in his S&S 34 providing much local colour and knowledge to the event. Since then, many sailors from all over the state, and indeed all over Australia, have visited most of the ports and anchorages north of Wallaroo.

We gathered in Port Broughton for two weeks of cruising in company, visiting ports and anchorages of upper Spencer Gulf. This was a casual cruise with skippers choosing their own anchorages between the major destination points to suit the capabilities and draft of their varied craft. The fleet comprised 37 deep keelers and trailer sailers.

The local CYCSA yachts involved were Celebrity with Megan and Richard Pope, Back Friday with Chris and Gina Wood who had Charlie and Jane Nott on board and Vagabond with Hillar and Debi Puvi with Graeme and Gay Footer on board. We were joined

by Playtime, a catamaran from Wallaroo with David and Sally Rosewarne, to head north to Port Broughton.

The cruise ran from 9-23 March and began at Port Broughton with the final destination being Port Pirie and for the final dinner travelling to the very top of Spencer Gulf mooring at Port Augusta.

Just reaching the start of the race required some planning.

We found a great way to do this was to sail from Adelaide to Wallaroo via West Cape and Wardang Island then leave our yachts in the extremely well set up and protected Wallaroo Marina for a couple of weeks prior to the start of the cruise. I had not previously stayed in the Copper Coast Marina and it is certainly worth visiting and makes for a safe and extremely well protected base for Spencer Gulf. The marina is only one-and-a-half hours drive from Adelaide Two weeks later we drove back to Wallaroo and set off for the afternoon sail to Port Broughton. Port Broughton is well set up and we all moored - rafted up to the floating marina at the end of the jetty. Entering Port Broughton is via an eight kilometre well marked channel however this is shallow at the entrance and needs to be entered on high tide. Once across this point it is easy.

This was the start of the cruise where all of the participants met at a ‘Pirate Night’ held at the local RSL Hall where we were treated to a sumptuous smorgasbord. An outline of the cruise was given by the local organisers and we were presented with a very comprehensive cruise booklet and pennant. Fundraising occurs at every function by fines being imposed on the various participants for various misdemeanours which were all good fun.

Whyalla was our next destination where we had dinner at the local yacht club. I had to moor Celebrity between two large iron poles which provided a very secure mooring. This is a pleasant marina which also has floating pontoon moorings.

We left the next day again sailing 15 miles across the gulf which was now only 15 miles wide, to anchor at Woods Point, a long sandy spit only visible at low tide. We passed quite close to Port Bonython, the Santos LPG plant with its 2.4 km jetty. This was a sheltered spot but we arrived in 35 knots from the south and there were some anchoring challenges with a bottom which was very thick weed over mud. My normally extremely reliable Marsh anchor found it difficult to get a good hold. Several yachts had to re-lay their anchors.

Blanche Harbour was our next anchorage which is about 10 miles south of Port Augusta. This is in area very similar to Black Point with many shacks along a sandy beach protected by a sand spit. We rafted up with a number of yachts in the very peaceful conditions for a party on the Rosewarne’s catamaran aptly named Playtime. A fairly rowdy dinner followed, the details of which will cannot not be revealed as the normal sailing rules of “what happens on board stays on board” apply regarding such activities.

A big blow was coming the following day and there were various crew changes occurring so we decided to stay in Blanche Harbour for another night. We successfully ferried various crews from the beach in fairly choppy conditions. The wind came up again, and again the weed over mud seemed to become a problem over 30 knots for almost everyone. This led to a number of yachts suddenly dragging anchor and shooting past at a great rate and this provided another learning experience for us and our new crew, John and Vicki Bolt. After we had dragged anchor once and re-laid the Marsh anchor we decided that a second anchor was required.

John and I headed out in the dinghy with the CQR anchor to lay it out at 40 degrees eventually with a very successful result. I have since learned there are easier ways of deploying a second anchor. This is a manoeuvre well worth considering in difficult anchoring conditions. We had a very secure night but others could not get a hold and had to tackle a rather tricky channel all the way to Port Augusta in the middle of the night. These are the challenges which occur when cruising at times.

Port Augusta proved to be a delightful spot by sea with a new floating marina which meant all the yachts were able to moor very close to the sailing club. There are excellent local supermarkets adjacent to the mooring to replenish supplies.

It is very interesting to visit the Northern Spencer Gulf towns which we were all familiar with by road but are totally different when approached from the sea. The scenery as one cruised the gulf was spectacular with the Flinders Ranges in the background and the distance across the gulf steadily diminishing to a stones throw by the time you reached Port Augusta. There was another very well organised dinner in the Port Augusta Yacht Club.

The cruise back down the gulf was a little easier having learnt all the anchoring lessons on the way up the gulf. On the return trip we all had to be back to work at different times and therefore stayed in a variety of different moorings.

The major destinations beyond Port Broughton were Whyalla, Port Augusta and Port Pirie with dinners organised for the participants at the local yacht clubs. This was all very well coordinated and allowed for great socialising.

Celebrity did the whole trip back to the CYCSA staying at Woods Point, Moonta Bay, Pondalowie Bay and Stansbury over one week in pleasant conditions. Back Friday and Vagabond returned to the CYCSA a week later via Wardang Island, West Cape and Stansbury.

There are many fascinating anchorages between these major ports. We travelled from Port Broughton across the gulf to Merninie which was 25 miles away and anchored off a sheltered beach with a few shacks and had a long lunch swimming from boat to boat. We sailed north to Tom’s Hideaway the next day as there was a strong southerly change coming and this provided great shelter in the conditions.

The Spencer Gulf Cruise is highly recommended by all those who undertook this adventure in 2013. We would like to thank the organisers again for their work in organising the gulf cruise and for those wanting to do this cruise in coming years the support from the organisers is fantastic visit www.spencergulfcruise@giyc.net Richard Pope, Celebrity

31

BALLAST HEAD CUP New Years’s Day 2014 L

et’s make the 2014 Ballast Head Cup the biggest and best ever! It will be the twelfth running of the Cup at Island Beach at Kangaroo Island and after a record fleet of 25 starters in 2013 we need to go one better for 2014.

Join in the fun of the first organised yacht race for the year and stay for the party afterwards.

The cannon sounds at 1300 hours and there are trophies and prizes for fastest, first, second and third on handicap and first new entry. Depending on entries a separate division may be run for multi-hulls.

Notice of Race and Sailing Instructions will be emailed to previous starters toward the end of November/beginning of December. New entries may contact Andrew Saies (Two True) or David Saies (Duty Crew CYC1) for further information.

Contact details: Reception

reception@cycsa.com.au

8248 4222

David Saies

davidsaies1@bigpond.com

0419 825 364

est.1988

A spectacular venue for your wedding day...

Cruising Yacht Club of South Australia 32

agm

minutes of annual general meeting of the cYC of sa inc wednesday 21 august 2013 at 7.30 pm

minutes 4 President’s Report

Dr Andrew Saies spoke to his report for the 2012/2013 year as presented in the Annual Report 12.13.

WELCOME

5 board of management

The President and Chairman of the meeting, Dr Andrew Saies, upon receiving confirmation of a quorum being present, formally declared the meeting open and welcomed members to the AGM for 2013.

The Chairman advised that at the closure of nominations on Wednesday 24 July 2013, there were eight nominations for the seven vacant positions on the Board of Management. Consequently, an election was held. The returning officer, BDO (Club Auditors) advised that the seven successful nominees were: Wayne E Coonan Peter F Hall Graham J Meyers David P Murray Andrew D Saies Sam E Tolley Christopher L Wood

confirmation of the minutes

Keith Degenhardt proposed that the minutes of the Annual General Meeting held on Wednesday 22 August 2012 as published in Groundswell in November 2012 be adopted. Barbara Page seconded the motion.

ATTENDANCE/APOLOGIES

Apologies as advised from the floor were noted in addition to those recorded on official record sheets at the entrance of the meeting venue.

6 APPOINTMENT OF AUDITOR

A full list of attendees, proxies and apologies is published here.

The Treasurer, Chris Wood, proposed that Dean Newbery & Partners be appointed as auditors.

Seconded Henry Petersen.

Carried

1 ASSOCIATION REPORTS Cruising Association

Mr Keith Degenhardt presented the Cruising Association Report for the 2012/2013 as included in the Annual Report 12.13.

7 other

Fishing Association

Nil

Mr Glenn Spear presented the Fishing Association Report for the 2012/2013 year as included in the Annual Report 12.13.

There being no other business the meeting was closed 9.30pm

attendees

Social Activities Association

ADAMS, MR J G BECKER, MR K L BOLTON, MR P R BROWN, MR R BURGIN, MR C CATT, MR G R CHARLESWORTH, MR M COONAN, MR W COTTON, DR A T DEGENHARDT, MR K DENHAM, MR T DIDYK, MR J EVANS, MR D J FORD, MR E GARDINER, MR P J GARNER, MR H

In the absence of a representative, the Social Activities Report for the 2012/2013 year was taken as published in the Annual Report 12.13.

Racing Association

The Chairperson of REX did not attend the AGM. Senior member and Chairperson of the Fishing Association, Glenn Spear, expressed his displeasure that the Chairperson was not present Gaythat Footer writes... and REX also didn’t have a representative at the Associations’ AGM on 21 July 2013 to deliver their report and answer any questions arising from that report.

The President agreed that this situation should not have occurred and will ask REX to ensure that this does not happen again.

GOWING, MR G P F GREVINS, MR J HALL, MR P F HARRY, MR J R HEFFERNAN, MR M HUMENIUK, DR V HUNTER, MR R C HUTTON, MR M W JORDAN, MR P A KNIGHTS, MR D LEACH, MR I LUCAS, MR P J MEYERS, MR G J MURRAY, MR D P PAGE, MRS B K PAGE, MR P

PANNELL, MR A J PETERSEN, MR H J PHILLIPS, MR M D PHILLIPSON, MR R RICHARDS, MR P RICHARDSON, MR R F SAIES, DR A SELLICK, MR R SHIPP, MR A SPEAR, MR G STRANGWAYS, MR W THEODORE, MR J G TOLLEY, MR S E WIGGINS, MR G WOOD, MR C L WOTTON, MR A M

proxies and apologies

Three other members of the REX were present at the AGM, including Vice Chairperson, William Strangways, who volunteered to read the report. Attendees suggested that they would accept the Racing Association report for the 2012/2013 year as published in the Annual Report 12.13.

AMOS, MR K J W ATKINSON, DR R BARRY, MR R J BOHM, MR S P BOULTER, MR K T BRENNER, MR K P BUTVILA, MR T L CLAMPETT, MR R R W CORLETTO, MR A CRADDOCK, MR A R CRAWFORD, MR P S CRITCHLEY, MR E G DRAPER, MR M FERGUSON, MR R A FOOTER, MRS G FOOTER, MR G L FRASER, MR R M FREEZER, DR S R GERARD, MR A J GERARD, MR J D GERARD, MRS S E GILL, MR J E GOMEZ, MR R A M HACKETT, MR G HAMBLY, MR A K

Senior member, Peter Bolton suggested that in future a representative from each Association should be in attendance at the AGM to deliver their Association’s report. This was unanimously supported by all in attendance.

Marine Academy Mr Rowland Richardson presented the Marine Academy report for the 2012/2013 year as presented in the Annual Report 12.13.

2 Financial Report

The Treasurer, Chris Wood, presented the Financial Report for 2012/2013. Mr Wood spoke to the report as presented in the Annual Report 12.13.

3 Commodore’s Report

Mr Geoff Catt presented the Commodores Report as published in the Annual Report 12.13.

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HAUSLER, MR R J HENTSCHKE, MR M R HOUSTON, MR S P HUSDELL, MR A JAUNAY, MR G J KIPLING, MR T P LAMPARD, MR K C LAUBE, MR A LEE, MR C F LEFORT, MR R LEHMAN, MR P J LOCKWOOD, MR T MACOLINO, MR R MCARDLE, MR J W MCELHINNEY, MR J MCGRATH, MS T MCPHERSON, MR R B MEDIC, MR S MEZZINI, MR J A MORPHETT, MR C P NEWMARCH, MR P J OCKENDEN, MR R R PATTEN, MR G PATTERSON, DR I

PERDELIS, MR N POPE, DR R O QUIN, MRS J J QUIN, MR S R REDMAN, MRS F E SALKELD, MR R W SAMPSON, MR MW SARAH (AM), MR D SHERIDEN, MR P J SHORT, MR I R A SIBLY, MR J SMITH, MR A M SMYTH, MR J A SUGARS, MR L TISCHENDORF, MR N TURCO, MR R TYMONS, MR T J VENN, MR D WALKER, MR J W P WARD, MR J N WILDE, MR M WOOD, MR F ZERELLA, MR C D ZUCCO, MR S

Berths for sale or lease

FOR SALE

FOR LEASE

Marina East 8m twin: F01, F02 from $66,000 C09 $42,000 10m single: A02, A03, A08 from $85,000 10m twin: A09, A10, A27, A34, A35, A36, A39, A40, F04 from $48,000 11m twin: A41 $55,000 12m single: D08, D18, D21, D23, E04, E06, E10, E11, E20, E32 from $85,000 12m twin: D19, D35, D38, E13 from $63,000 12m twin: D35 reduced to $69,500 12m twins suitable for catamaran: E30 & E31 each $110,000 12m single: D08, D18, D21, D23, E04, E05, E06, E10, E11 from $87,000 13m twin: C22 and C23 suitable for catamaran:

each $95,000 or both $180,000 14m single: A46, C30 from $160,000 15m single: A47, B26, B31, B35, B36, C34, C37 from $150,000 15m single: B25 all offers considered 16m single: B15, B21 from $180,000 16m single: B14 ono $150,000 20m single: A49 $290,000 20m T Head: E34 ono $325,000 Marina West (all single berths) 11m single: M03 suitable for catamaran $80,000 14m single: M07 $140,000 15m single: M08 $155,000 17m single: J13, J19, J20 from $150,000 18m single: M10 $250,000 20m single: K05 reduced to $200,000 20m single: K06, L02 from $200,000 25m single: M14 $290,000 Hardstand 9m: 7, 13, 15, 17, 23, 25, 27, 39, 52, 54, 57, 68, 70, 81, 89, 100 from $3,000 HS24 all offers considered 10m: 136, 140, 144, 146, 147, 148 from $6,000 12m: 114 from $8,000 Port Vincent 10m twin: A9, A18, A23 from $35,000 10m twin: A14 reduced to (ono) $30,000 12m twin: B29, B33, B34, B37, C60 from $35,000 12m single: B45, C48, C51, C65, C68 from $45,000 12m single: B46 reduced to $42,000 14ms: D70, D71, D73, D77, D78 from $45,000 15ms: D83, D85, D86, D87, D89 from $50,000 20ms: A12, B35 $200,000

Notes on Purchasing/Selling Berths For Existing Berth Owners Considering Selling As per Marina Berth Agreement, a 10% commission is payable by the vendor on all berth sales.

Marina East 8m twin: C09*, F01*, F02* 10m twin: A09*, A14, A31, A40*, F16 12m twin: E13*, E16 12m single: D30, E11, E21 ($300 p/m til end Jan 14), E22 ($450p/m) 13m twin: A43 14m single: C25 ($550 p/m) 15m single: A47* Marina West (all single berths) 15m: M08* 17m: J13*, J14 (available til Jan2014), J18, J19* 18m: M10 ($400/m) 20m: K01, K02, K05*, K06*, K07, K08 22m: K15, K18 25m: M14* 30m: K16 Hardstand 9m: 15, 25, 52*, 56, 62, 63, 68*, 100* 10m: 33, 132, 133, 147*, 148*

For information on all CYCSA membership fees and charges please refer to www.cycsa.com.au

contacts Berth Sales Jenny Krogdahl t: 8248 4222 e: jenny@cycsa.com.au Berth Leasing Mellissa Vahoumis t: 8248 4222 e: mellissa@cycsa.com.au Port Vincent Rob Marner (PV Marina Manager) 0414 611 110

Average Leasing Rates Marina Berths (per month) 8ms $310 14ms 8mt $290 15ms 10ms $350 16ms 10mt $330 17ms 11mt $350 18ms 12ms $465 22ms 12mt $410 23ms 13ms $475 24ms 13mt $475 30ms

Hardstands (per month) $510 9m $175 $560 10m $195 $660 12m $220 $710 POA POA POA POA POA

All prices include GST * Denotes berth for sale and lease

As of 22 October 2007 Board Meeting If you are selling your berth and buying a berth of equal or greater value then your berth sale may be subject to a 5% commission payable to the Club (in lieu of 10%). The sale and purchase must be effected on the same day. This will be at the discretion of Management.

Fishing Association ‘Flying Gaff’ Trophy

M

any members will have seen this impressive trophy in the Club trophy cabinet.

It’s a polished and mounted fishing gaff that in its previous life had been used to hook Great White sharks in South Australia and marlin in Queensland.

The gaff belonged to the late Keith Waterman, Foundation Member of the CYCSA and Life Member of the Game Fishing Club of South Australia and was donated to the Fishing Association in 2002 by Keith’s son Andrew for a new award for the heaviest fish caught outside South Australian waters. It was first awarded in 2003 to Clive Ragless for a 37kg mackerel caught in North Queensland and he won again in 2004 for a magnificent 43kg Spanish Mackerel caught out from Broome in Western Australia.

The current CYCSA Fishing Association want to reinstate this award on an annual basis.

It’s open to All CYCSA members.

The rules for the competition are as follows – 1 This trophy will be awarded for best trophy fish caught outside South Australia 2 The competition period will run between dates 1 June to 31 May each year 3 A fish photo and completed award application form are to be emailed to CYCSA reception who will upload to the Fishing Association section of the website 4 The winner will be determined by a vote of the Fishing Association Committee 5 The trophy will be presented to the winner at the Fishing Association’s Seafood Night (winner will be notified prior to the night).

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