Go-To Guide for Boats (20 Page Sample)

GO-TO

FOR

GUIDE

BOATS EXPERT ADVICE

PLANNING & PREPARATION

MAINTENANCE & EQUIPMENT

FISHING & LIFESTYLE

gui de onl samp y le

Everything you need to know as you push off toward new horizons

INSPIRING DESTINATIONS1

GO-TO GUIDE FOR BOATS

14

50

PLANNING

OFF THE WATER

SAFETY

Pre-Trip Checklist .......................................... 4

Towing Trailerboats .......................................... 20 Launching and Retrieving ............................. 24 Storage and Security....................................... 26

Safety Gear .......................................................... 50 What to do in an Emergency ...................... 54 Marine First Aid ................................................. 58

MAINTENANCE

TECH

Mooring and Anchoring ................................ 28 Knot Know-How ................................................ 30 Engine Care ......................................................... 32 Boat Maintenance ............................................ 40 Trailer Maintenance ......................................... 46

Using Sonar.......................................................... 62 Using Radio .......................................................... 64 Plotters and GPS .............................................. 66 Apps For Boaties ............................................... 68

Licensing and Registration .......................... 6 Boat Buying Tips ................................................ 8 Understanding Weather ................................ 12 Navigation ............................................................ 14

2

32

CONTENTS

88

70

64

FISHING

MAPS

Fishing Gear ........................................................ 70 Fishing Calendar ............................................... 74 Fish Identification .............................................. 76 Fish Handling....................................................... 80

Victoria ................................................................... 106 New South Wales .............................................. 110 Queensland .......................................................... 114 Northern Territory ........................................... 118 Western Australia ............................................. 122 South Australia ................................................... 126 Tasmania ................................................................. 130

LIFESTYLE Cooking Your Catch ....................................... 84 Tow-Sports ............................................................ 88 Destinations ......................................................... 90

90

NOTE: This page is an extract from the Go-To Guide for Boats - therefore page numbers refrerenced don’t match this sample brochure.

3

GO-TO GUIDE FOR BOATS

UNDERSTANDING

Navigation

Losing your way in the ocean can land you in all kinds of trouble and while you may not be going for your skipper’s ticket any time soon, few people are more qualified to speak on such things than RYA Yachtmaster Kevin Green

4 14

PLANNING

NAVIGATION

Buoyage Australia is covered under the IALA Region A buoyage system, which dictates the use of lateral marks for navigating in channels and harbours.

Under this system, when a boat is travelling in the 'direction of buoyage' it means it is heading upstream, or from the sea inward to ports, harbours and other waterways.

This system uses red to indicate port and green to indicate starboard. These colours are fixed when talking about your vessel, so your boat's red side is on the left when facing the bow, aka port, and your boat's green side is on the right, starboard.

When you're travelling in the direction of buoyage (ie. upstream), the colours of the lateral markers, or channel markers, will match

RIGHT OF WAY

Direction of buoyage the colours that denote the port and starboard side.

So when you're going upstream, you need to keep the green markers on the right and the red markers on the left.

This is flipped around when heading in the other direction, out to sea, so that you keep the red markers on the right and the green markers on the left.

In the event that you can't recognise the colours (looking into the sun, for example), green lateral markers have a single upward-pointing triangle on top, whereas red markers have a single cylinder (which will look square from the water level).

Once you've wrapped your head around that, the easy way to remember is: “Green to green when going upstream; green to red when seas are ahead.�

Those new to boating might be intimidated by the absence of markers when it comes to giving way to other vessels, but the basic principles are simple.

Power always gives way to sail; two powered vessels meeting head-on pass to the right; when two powered vessels are crossing, give way to the right; when two sailing vessels have wind to opposite sides, the vessel with the wind on its port side gives way; when two sailing vessels have wind on the same side the windward vessel gives way to leeward; and any vessel may overtake on either side when safe to do so.

Other Markers

Cardinal Marks tell you the side on which it is safest to pass to avoid hazards such as rocks. They have horizontal black and yellow bands and communicate direction you pass on with two cones (day time) and flashes of light (night time).

N - Both points upward or 12 flashes = pass on north side E - Cones pointing away from one another or 3 flashes = pass to the east side S - Both points downward or 6 flashes = pass on the south side W - Cones pointing towards on another or 9 flashes = pass on the west side North

East

South

Special Marks are yellow and topped with a cross. They may indicate any number of things, including speed restricted zones, no boating zones or pipelines. The exact nature of these marks will usually be explained on the relevant chart.

New Danger Marks are blue and yellow with a yellow plus sign on top. These are used to show dangers that are yet to be added to charts, which may include recent wrecks or sand banks.

Isolated Danger Marks are red and black, with two spheres on top. They're indicated by two flashes of white light at night time.

These are placed on small patches of dangerous terrain, rocks and so forth, that are surrounded by clear water. Keep a reasonable distance and pass on any side.

Safe Water Marks are red and white, topped with a single red sphere. Be aware that these tend to denote areas in which large vessels and commercial shipping operates.

Mini Buoys are used inland. Red means no boats, green means access lane, yellow indicates speed restrictions and yellow and red is special purpose.

Divers will display a white and blue flag (usually with a fluorescent flag below) either from a stationary vessel or floating on a fluorescent buoy. Divers may be present within 100 metres of the flag.

West

5 15

GO-TO GUIDE FOR BOATS

Essential Navigation Skills Essential navigation skills include learning how to use paper charts and are a prerequisite to becoming a qualified navigator. I still remember the trepidation with which I approached my own 24-hour Yachtmaster sea-going exam in the Atlantic. But the classroom test was much less stressful because I had plenty of time to study theory beforehand. Key subjects are chartwork, compass bearings, rules of the road, lights, tides and pilotage.

CHARTS

Position fixing using a chart is the key starting point. The best tools for chart work are a plastic plotter with multiple scales and compass rose, pencil and eraser. The basics of plotting a course from A to B involve drawing bearing lines that measure distance in nautical miles. A bearing from two fixed objects 90 degrees apart taken with a handbearing compass is known as a transit and provides a basic way of fixing your position on a chart.

Most charts are drawn to what is known as Mercator’s Projection, representing the globe on a flat sheet of paper with the lines of longitude

6 16

running vertically and the lines of latitude horizontally. There are 360 degrees of longitude (180° E to 180° W) and 180 degrees of latitude (90° N to 90° S). The distance between these lines is measured in degrees and minutes.

The parallels of latitude spread out towards to the north and south poles and the longitude lines converge there. Latitude is used for measuring distance, so this means a distance of 60 nautical miles, for example, will appear as a bigger measurement at the top or bottom compared to the middle of the chart – requiring distances to

be measured on the vertical scale opposite the boat’s approximate position on that chart.

Given the fact that one nautical mile equals one minute of latitude, then 60 miles equals 60 minutes; and 60 minutes equates to one degree. Minutes are further divided into seconds to give an even greater level of accuracy.

Together, these figures become seven figure coordinates denoted by their direction north or south of the equator for latitude and east or west of the Greenwich meridian line (that runs through London). Thus Melbourne is denoted as 37.8136° S, 144.9631° E.

PLANNING

NAVIGATION

PLOTTING

The ability to plot coordinates (degrees, minutes and seconds) given by a GPS unit (called a Fix) onto paper chart is an essential skill of diligent navigation as it creates a record of the course which allows finding one’s position in an emergency, such as lightening strike that destroys electronics. Plotting a Fix is the process of marking your coordinates with respect to longitude and latitude on your chart.

Chart plotting also allows Estimated Positions to be calculated when no Fix (or GPS) is available. This is done by calculating speed and time along with the compass course, then

factoring in any other conditions affecting your course, such as tide and wind. Tidal movement can push the vessel in any direction, while the wind acting on the sails can push the boat sideways, causing leeway. So, plotting an accurate course involves making allowances for these factors by adding a few degrees of leeway in order to give a heading.

A final complication for course-work is something called variation, the movement of the earth’s magnetic field.

This is marked on your plastic plotter’s compass rose (or typed into your chart plotter). Once done it’s easily calculated.

TOP 10 TIPS FOR

Navigation 1 2 3 4

Use any known buoys or features to give a quick position fix Use a transit bearing as a quick guide to give you a rough position Black buoys mean danger whereas white means safe water Known depths are a useful navigation aid and contour lines can be followed in bad visibility

5

GPS has limited use in close quarters pilotage where speed and visual navigation are essential

6 7

Chart precision may be less accurate than GPS

Beware of slavish GPS use that can create a virtual world rather than a real situation

8

Lay off bearings in Magnetic for quick pilotage planning using the compass

9 10

Slow the boat down when doing tricky pilotage and navigation The navigator sticks to his/her job and does not also steer

7 17

GO-TO GUIDE FOR BOATS

A

LAUNCHING AND

Retrieving

Quick launching and easy retrieval are important parts of a good day’s boating

8 24

s good as that new boat might look sitting out on your front lawn, it won't be long before it's time to set it adrift. Though every boat and trailer differ in the details, the basic principals of launching remain the same.

A suburban boat ramp can be a crazy place on a Saturday morning, so when your turn comes to reverse up and hit the water, it's always best to have some idea of what you're about to do.

LAUNCHING PRE-FLIGHT CHECKS First up, make sure everything is in good working order. This includes checking your trailer hitch and safety chains are firmly secured. Before dipping the rear

OFF THE WATER

LAUNCHING AND RETRIEVING

ON THE BEACH

If you’re a dab-hand at launching, then going solo is simple enough, but for most of us it’s good to have a second pair of hands to help out.

end of your trailer in the drink, you're advised to disconnect the power from the tow vehicle to trailer so that you don't short your break lights. Give the boat ramp a good once over to check for any submerged objects, slippery spots or, for those in the north, lurking crocs.

It’s also possible to launch and retrieve your boat on the beach. This process is much the same as on a boat ramp, but there are a few more things to consider.

Firstly, the condition of the beach and sand are important. It’s not uncommon for people to get bogged when launching on the beach, so a capable 4WD vehicle is highly recommended. The angle of incline and tide should also be considered, and keep in mind where the waterline will be when you want to retrieve. It may be easier to unhitch from the trailer so that your car doesn’t sink into the wet sand, then you can use a vehicle winch or a tow-line to haul the trailer up from the water – just keep in mind you’ll need a skid plate for your jockey wheel.

PREPARE FOR LAUNCH Once your trailer is in position, and just before you head down the ramp, attach your winch hook to the bow eye, undo the tie-down straps and pack them away. Trim your outboard so that it doesn't drag on the ramp and make sure drain plugs and bungs are in tight.

If you're going to need dock lines and fenders to tie up to a dock once your boat is in the water, then have them in place and ready to.

BACK IT UP Once you're satisfied that everything's good to go, have someone position themselves somewhere you can see them and they can see the back of your boat – it's much easier if you have someone to guide you in this way. Some boaties with suitable 4WD tow-vehicles will reverse in low range, while others will keep the car in neutral so they can quickly shift into gear and drive forward if something goes wrong. Make small adjustments to the steering, take it slow and don't be afraid to drive out and reassess if things don't feel right.

KNOW WHEN TO STOP Stop reversing when the stern of the boat begins to rise from the trailer bed.

At this point your helper can get in the boat and detach the winch.

OUT YOU GET Pull on your handbrake and put your vehicle in park. Make sure its well and truly stopped in place before getting out to help push the boat off. Larger boats may require you to lower the engine and reverse off the trailer. Have your helper toss you the dock lines so you can secure the boat before heading off to park the car.

RETRIEVAL

Once you're ready to call it a day, shut off and trim the engine, then fetch the car and and back the trailer down the boat ramp. Attach the winch to the bow and line the boat up with the trailer, being mindful of the possibility that the stern may drift a little. Crank the winch to pull the boat up onto the trailer and apply the brake once it's in place. You can take care of the tie-down straps and reconnect the lights once you've pulled away from the ramp. And just be sure everyone's out of the boat before you start driving away.

9 25

GO-TO GUIDE FOR BOATS

KNOT KNOW-HOW With a little practice you’ll be hitching and bending at a rate of knots

W

hen you're around boats and the water, there are a few knots and hitches that will come in very handy. Often we associate rope work with sailing, but even the humble tinnie will require a few hitches, a fisherman's bend or a bowline at times. For every particular scenario on a boat, you can assume that there is a unique knot that's been developed to suit the purpose.

Luckily, there are a few versatile options that will just about cover you in any foreseeable event. With a bit of practice and repetition you'll be able to tie each one without so much as a second thought.

CLEAT HITCH

The nautical world is abundant with cleats, so it's a good thing cleat hitches are so simple. This particular hitch is handy for lashing to deck cleats, especially when mooring. Please note that sail halyards require a variety of hitch different to this one.

1 Bring the line around the far side of the cleat, around the base, below the horn 2 Lift the line up and diagonally across the centre of the cleat 3 Wrap below the opposing horn, around the base and back over the cleat 4 Continue wrapping the line in a figure-eight pattern until secure 10 30

FIGURE EIGHT (STOPPER)

The figure eight knot comes in a variety of flavours which all come in handy once you're familiar with the classic. In a nautical context, a single figure eight is used primarily as a stopper knot, since it's quick, remarkably strong under strain and is easy to untie. Tie one at the end of a rope to stop the line running.

1 Pass the loose end of the rope over the standing end 2 Then pass it back under 3 Bring the loose end over and back through the loop at the end of the rope

MAINTENANCE

KNOT KNOW-HOW

BOWLINE

The bowline has been around since neolithic nautical adventurers were lashing vines to tree stumps – probably. This handy knot forms a loop or 'eye' at the end of a rope, which can be thrown over a mooring bollard or a rampaging marlin’s tail. It's favoured due to the fact that it's easy to undo after being loaded. It is worth noting however, that bowlines can work themselves loose when not under tension, especially when tied in a slick, low-friction rope (in that situation you might prefer a figure-eight loop).

1 Form a small loop, loose end over standing end, leaving enough distance between it and the end of the rope to produce the finished 'eye' 2 Pass the end of the rope through the loop from below (as though tying a simple overhand knot) 3 Pass the loose end under the standing end, bring it back over and return through the loop then pull tight

ANCHOR HITCH (AKA FISHERMAN'S BEND)

As you may have guessed, this knot is used to tie a line to an anchor (or the end of the anchor chain), to a fishing hook or any similar application. It's an easy knot to tie when wearing gloves or with a thin line, since it mainly consists of a series of threaded loops. The resulting knot is mighty tough and doesn't come undone, but can be worked loose and untied easily by a nimble set of fingers.

1 Wrap the loose end of the rope through the anchor shackle or hook eye twice, keeping the second turn slack 2 Pass the tail over the standing end, then bring it under and through slack turn made in step 1 3 Tie a half hitch by passing loose end below the standing line, then up and back through the gap created by the earlier motion 4 Anything remaining on the loose end should be used to tie a back up knot

CLOVE HITCH

The clove hitch is used to tie onto cylindrical objects and comes in handy for temporary moorings or fenders, as well as a number of other things. It can be tied with one hand and is easily adjusted, allowing you to slacken or tighten the standing line.

On the downside, it can wriggle itself loose if not kept under pressure – adding two half hitches (anchor hitch step 3) afterward can lessen the chance of this happening.

1 Wrap the loose end of the line around the pole or post 2 Cross the line back over itself to make an 'X', then wrap it around the post once more 3 Bring the loose end around and pass it beneath the last wrap, so that the free end exits from between the two wraps

SHEET BEND

Bends are a type of knot used to join two ropes together and generally constrict on themselves when pulled. The sheet bend is particularly useful in a boating context, as it's able to join two ropes of different diameter, made from different materials.

It's not the strongest kind of bend, however it's perfectly sufficient for the vast majority recreational boating needs.

Leave plenty of tail on both ends of the bend and back up with stopper knots or half hitches if in doubt.

1 Fold the thicker line back on itself and hold it in one hand 2 Pass the thinner line up through the loop and then pass it behind both strands of the thicker line 3 Tuck the smaller line back under itself Note: when done correctly, the tail ends of both lines should be exiting in the same direction. If they point out in opposite directions you've got what is referred to as a left-hand sheet bend, which will slip easily.

11 31

GO-TO GUIDE FOR BOATS

Using Radio M

aritime communications allow the safe passage of vessels by enabling them to communicate with one another, and that is the key reason for not relying on a mobile phone when at sea (try finding the telephone number of that approaching supertanker, for instance). Emergency use is the other major reason, in that radio communication is a one-to-many signal, so all surrounding vessels will hear a distress call.

The two common marine radio types are VHF for short range and SSB/HF for long range. VHFs come in the form of both handsets and installed units, while SSB/HF are only installed units. Satellite phones are increasingly being used as a complementary system, as they have voice and data capabilities.

However, as advised by the Australian Communication and Media Authority (ACMA), both radio systems require operators to be licensed and handsets registered. These are the primary means that the Australian Maritime Safety Authority (AMSA) acts on, along with emergency beacons (EPIRBS).

Undertaking a course in VHF usage is highly advisable as it teaches you etiquette and procedures for calling an emergency (MAYDAY) or assistance (PAN PAN) and the relevant radio channels – note that channel 16 is for emergency use only.

12 64

Other useful knowledge includes the phonetic alphabet (especially for spelling your boat's name) and the capabilities of VHF – such as it's line of sight range and the power of different units.

VHF capabilities have increased over the years with functions such as DSC (Digital Selective Calling ) and AIS (Automatic Identification System).

A red DSC button found on newer radios has important functionality – DSC can store and then send all your boat's details – including a unique MMSI identification code – at the touch of the red button. This information is broadcast to vessels and coastal stations within your vicinity. In addition, if you link your GPS to VHF, the boat's position will be broadcast at the same time.

The same applies to AIS which transmits a vessel's details to others in its vicinity, including course and speed, and is an important safety feature of modern VHF. Just be aware that marine VHF usually can't communicate with aircraft VHF, as they operate on different frequencies.

TECH

USING RADIO

V H F Channels

Many VHF channels are set aside for use by port operations, commercial shipping and professional fishing, which means that recreational boaters will only ever use a handful of those remaining. Channel 16 is for emergency use only, and is supplemented by channel 67. If you make a call on these channels, once you've made contact you will likely be advised to switch to another channel to carry on and leave the emergency channel clear.

Channels 72, 73 and 77 are for use by recreational vessels; using channel 72 you should also be able to reach commercial, fishing and port vessels.

21 22

82

81

VHF Repeaters

Search and rescue operations

6

70

73

80

DSC

12

72

77 78

Recreational Vessels

74 6

DISTRESS CHANNEL

16 & 67

Commercial Vessels

8

Professional fisherman

77 71

Port Operations

19

72

2 8

6

13

74

72

9

14

8

13 65

GO-TO GUIDE FOR BOATS

FISHING Calendar Once you've got your gear sorted, time to set your sights on a destination. And nobody knows the dream destinations better than Steve “Starlo” Starling

JANUARY

Coffin Bay

Every man and his dog is on holidays and our waterways are busy, but it’s a great time of the year to go fishing! It can pay to get up early to avoid both the crowds and the sea breezes; the effort is worth it. Coffin Bay, in the west of South Australia, is a wonderful summer destination for boat fishers, and at this time of the year it offers everything from prolific garfish, tommy rough and King George whiting in the shallows to kingfish and snapper further out. Bring the squid jigs, too.

MAY

As the weather cools down south, many footloose fishers begin to look north, and with good reason. May is a productive month for targeting barramundi in the tropics.

The run-off may have finished, but the water is still warm and the barra are hungry. Iconic waterways such as beautiful Corroboree Billabong, an easy drive south east of Darwin, provide not only great fishing, but memorable wildlife watching at this time of year.

FEBRUARY

Bluewater game and sport fishing along the south-eastern seaboard really begins to hit its straps in February.

Water temperatures are high and the cobalt currents flowing along the continental shelf now carry all manner of tropical visitors; from marlin and tuna to wahoo and mahimahi. Port Stephens, on the mid-north coast of NSW, is the place to be, and this port plays host to several major fishing tournaments in February and March.

JUNE

Marlin

Coffs Harbour

Daytime deep-dropping for broadbill swordfish has revolutionised the pursuit of these most highly-prized of all the ocean’s predators. From Coffs Harbour in northern NSW to the southern tip of Tasmania, keen anglers will be braving the cold this month to seek some of the largest swordfish of the year. Bermagui and Eden, on the far south coast of NSW, are two ports that will see their fair share of deep-dropping action in June.

Barramundi

SEPTEMBER

Impoundment (dam) fishing for Australian bass and golden perch (yellowbelly) in south-eastern Queensland is firing well this month, and some of the biggest bass available anywhere in the country will be encountered at Somerset Dam, near Esk, just a couple of hours west of Brisbane.

Look for schooling fish on your depth sounder in eight to 20 metres of water and target them using jigs, spoons or deep-trolled hard-bodied lures. Don’t forget the red claw yabby traps, either.

Somerset Dam

74 14

OCTOBER

With the footy seasons finally wrapped up, southern fishers turn their passions to the snapper that are now beginning to bite much more freely in our big bays and gulfs. Snapper catches in Melbourne’s Port Phillip Bay have rebounded dramatically in recent years. Early in the season, boaties will concentrate their efforts towards the lower end of the Bay, but as the weeks pass, snapper schools will range further and further north, towards the city waterfront itself.

Snapper

FISHING

FISHING CALENDAR

QUICK TIP

Keep an eye out for ocean birds that zero in on baitfish; target fish may be there too. Some even use birds to direct them to a feed

MARCH

Exmouth, in the north of Western Australia, is a real angler’s town, and represents a wonderful destination for the footloose fisher.

March can be one of the best months for a variety of species off Exmouth: both in the Indian Ocean and inside the Gulf. The annual GAMEX Tournament takes place late in the month and typically sees records broken on everything from billfish to trevally and queenfish.

APRIL Exmouth

JULY

Whenever a decent lull in the south easterly trade winds allows for it, this time of year provides excellent fishing action along the inner and outer Great Barrier Reef off far northern Queensland. From juvenile black marlin and sailfish to Spanish mackerel and demersal species such as red emperor and coral trout, just about everything is on the chew! Mission Beach, south of Cairns, makes a great stepping-off point for keen boaties.

Tuna

This month sees the weather settling into more predictable patterns in southern seas, and with those settled conditions comes some of the best fishing of the year. Southern bluefin tuna stocks have bounced back spectacularly over the past decade, and there are few better places to target these exciting sportfish than the blue waters off Eaglehawk Neck and Tasman Island on Tasmania’s south-east coast. Both school-sized fish and heavyweight jumbo tuna will be taken in numbers here right through April and into May.

AUGUST

It may be cold, but the black bream are starting to bite well at this time of year in the rivers flowing into Victoria’s Gippsland Lakes. The big three rivers (Tambo, Nicholson and Mitchell) all provide excellent catches on bait and lures, and Metung is a great place to base yourself for the pre-spring bream run. Rug up and get out there!

Gippsland Lakes

Spanish Mackerel

NOVEMBER

If you’ve always wanted to tick a seriously large dusky flathead off your personal bucket list, November is a great month to do it. From south-eastern Queensland to Victoria’s Gippsland, mega-flathead are on the chew in our estuaries now, and perhaps the most consistent venue of all for them is St Georges Basin near Sussex Inlet, a couple of hours’ drive south of Sydney. But remember that the big ones are all female breeders: so, let ’em go, let ’em grow.

St Georges Basin

DECEMBER

Mallacoota, in the far east of Victoria, is a dream destination for keen boat fishers, and December is a terrific month to target dusky flathead, whiting, bream, estuary perch, garfish and tailor in the vast inlet, while offshore the snapper, sand flathead and even a few yellowtail kingfish should be biting well.

Garfish 15 75

GO-TO GUIDE FOR BOATS

New South Wales Sydney Harbour

Many people go their whole lives in the NSW metropolis without realising that there's a whole other side of Sydney that can only be experienced by boat. The NSW government and Transport NSW have partnered with 19 marinas to help cruisers get the best boating experience in this large natural harbour, each of which provide various facilities and amenities for public use. Destination marinas are marked with a green flag, while destination berths are marked with a blue flag.

There are a few public boat ramps tucked into the parks and reserves that dot the prime waterfront real estate, however there are also loads of boat hire and charter companies that operate in the vicinity. Before heading out, it's important to familiarise yourself with right of way rules and ensure your radio's working, as it can get pretty busy on the waters of Sydney Harbour.

Twofold Bay

If you're keen to push out into the Pacific and try your luck with some big game fish there are few better jump-off points than Eden between December and May. From the ramp at Quarantine Bay, it's a clear ride out through Twofold Bay and before long you could be battling with a blue marlin or yellowfin tuna.

There are also plenty of rivers and estuaries leading out into the bay that offer a more sedate angling experience.

Humpback whales are known to enter the bay to feed on their way to Antarctica. When a whale sighting is reported to the museum they sound the whale siren, a hangover from the region's whaling days that now helps curious sight seers catch a glimpse of the mysterious giants.

When it's time to give your sealegs a rest, there are plenty of pristine beaches accessible by boat. If you fancy taking a trip a little further south, along the coastline that borders the Ben Boyd National Park, then you'll be able to find some real gems.

See maps on page 110

94 16

For a no-frills navigation aid, get a copy of Hema’s New South Wales handy map.

LIFESTYLE

DESTINATIONS

QUICK TIP

The best time to see whales in Twofold Bay is between September and November, while dolphins are present all year round.

CLOCKWISE FROM MAIN: Sydney Harbour provides an iconic backdrop; Boyd’s Tower stands atop red cliffs overlooking Twofold Bay; Peaceful setting at Eden; The locals at Myall Lakes, Port Stephens

17 95

GO-TO GUIDE FOR BOATS

QUICK TIP

If you want to stay a little longer, there are a couple of camping areas around Whitehaven Beach that make a good base camp from which to explore the National Park

CLOCKWISE FROM MAIN: This view pretty much sums up the Whitsunday Islands; A view over Sanctuary Cove to the Gold Coast Broadwater and beyond; Calling it a day at Hervey Bay; Everyone enjoys Hervey Bay

96 18

LIFESTYLE

DESTINATIONS

Queensland Gold Coast

It's no coincidence that the bulk of Australia's recreational boating industry is centred around the Gold Coast. From trips out to Stradbroke Island and cruises on Moreton Bay to the countless rivers and waterways that snake their way inland, there's plenty of water to explore.

The section of water that's protected from the ocean by north and south Stradbroke Island and the Spit, otherwise known as the Broadwater, is where the big boats play. Despite the numerous superyachts and multi-million dollar waterfront properties, it's a great place to explore and provides access to loads of shops and restaurants. Smaller craft are able to utilise more of the surrounding waterways than the deep-hulled luxury cruisers, so there's plenty more to discover for the average boatie.

Fish-wise, there are plenty of options for all manner of anglers. Jumpinpin, the channel between north and south Stradbroke Island, is a top spot for flathead. Tallebudgera Creek is a good spot for a tinnie, or if you're a little larger you can head out around Snapper Rocks for – you guessed it – snapper.

Discover more of Queensland’s gems with Hema’s 4WD Adventures.

Whitsunday Islands

The Whitsunday Islands are one of Australia's premier sailing destinations and are particularly popular as a charter destination, as well as a recreational boating playground. Trailer sailors and powerboat pullers can set out from Shute Harbour or Airlie Beach and make the trip across the exposed stretch of water to explore the coastal areas of Hamilton Island, Whitsunday Island and so on. Small boats are cautioned to be well-prepared and keep an eye on conditions – the channels can get choppy. Once you're out there, pop around to Whitehaven beach or any one of the more remote locations for a break – just watch out for the reefs.

The waters around the islands contain plenty of quality dive sites, as well as a wide array of marine species such as turtles, reef sharks, reef fish and dolphins – and if you're lucky you could spot a wobbegong shark. If you'd rather fish than swim, the coastal waters, rivers, creeks and estuaries provide countless opportunities. There are giant trevally in deeper waters, bream around estuaries and coral trout among the reefs. If that's not enough, head back to the mainland for a short drive to Lake Proserpine, where you may hook a barramundi.

See maps on page 114

97 19

GO-TO

GUIDE

FOR

Be prepared to explore

BOATS

with Hema maps and guides.

Australia is a fantastic place to own a boat, with almost endless opportunities to fish, dive, ski, wake-board or just relax and take in the scenery. Whether you wish to spend laid-back afternoons lounging on a lake or take the tinnie across a passage for taste of island life, this book – produced in collaboration with Trade-a-Boat Magazine – is a great place to start.

Do you prefer to stick to terra firma?

Check out one of Hema’s other Go-To Guides – the ultimate touring companions for Caravans and Campers.

The Go-To Guide covers: Trip Planning Navigation Towing & Launching Maintenance

Marine Safety Equipment & Gadgetry Inspiring Destinations And Much More...

PLANNING

GO-TO GUIDE FOR BOATS

NAVIGATION

RIGHT OF WAY

Buoyage

Direction of buoyage

Australia is covered under the IALA Region A buoyage system, which dictates the use of lateral marks for navigating in channels and harbours.

Under this system, when a boat is travelling in the 'direction of buoyage' it means it is heading upstream, or from the sea inward to ports, harbours and other waterways.

This system uses red to indicate port and green to indicate starboard. These colours are fixed when talking about your vessel, so your boat's red side is on the left when facing the bow, aka port, and your boat's green side is on the right, starboard.

When you're travelling in the direction of buoyage (ie. upstream), the colours of the lateral markers, or channel markers,

Those new to boating might be intimidated by the absence of markers when it comes to giving way to other vessels, but the basic principles are simple.

Power always gives way to sail; two powered vessels meeting head-on pass to the right; when two powered vessels are crossing, give way to the right; when two sailing vessels have wind to opposite sides, the vessel with the wind on its port side gives way; when two sailing vessels have wind on the same side the windward vessel gives way to leeward; and any vessel may overtake on either side when safe to do so.

will match the colours that denote the port and starboard side.

So when you're going upstream, you need to keep the green markers on the right and the red markers on the left. This is flipped around when heading in the other direction, out to sea, so that you keep the red markers on the right and the green markers on the left.

In the event that you can't recognise the colours (looking into the sun, for example), green lateral markers have a single upward-pointing triangle on top, whereas red markers have a single cylinder (which will look square from the water level).

Once you've wrapped your head around that, the easy way to remember is: “Green to green when going upstream; green to red when seas are ahead.”

Prepared to explore. www.hemamaps.com

Other Markers

Cardinal Marks tell you the side on which it is safest to pass to avoid hazards such as rocks. They have horizontal black and yellow bands and communicate direction you pass on with two cones (day time) and flashes of light (night time).

N - Both points upward or 12 flashes = pass on north side E - Cones pointing away from one another or 3 flashes = pass to the east side S - Both points downward or 6 flashes = pass on the south side W - Cones pointing towards on another or 9 flashes = pass on the west side North

UNDERSTANDING

Navigation

East

South

Special Marks are yellow and topped with a cross. They may indicate any number of things, including speed restricted zones, no boating zones or pipelines. The exact nature of these marks will usually be explained on the relevant chart.

New Danger Marks are blue and yellow with a yellow plus sign on top. These are used to show dangers that are yet to be added to charts, which may include recent wrecks or sand banks.

Isolated Danger Marks are red and black, with two spheres on top. They're indicated by two flashes of white light at night time.

These are placed on small patches of dangerous terrain, rocks and so forth, that are surrounded by clear water. Keep a reasonable distance and pass on any side.

Safe Water Marks are red and white, topped with a single red sphere. Be aware that these tend to denote areas in which large vessels and commercial shipping operates.

Mini Buoys are used inland. Red means no boats, green means access lane, yellow indicates speed restrictions and yellow and red is special purpose.

Divers will display a white and blue flag (usually with a fluorescent flag below) either from a stationary vessel or floating on a fluorescent buoy. Divers may be present within 100 metres of the flag.

Losing your way in the ocean can land you in all kinds of trouble and while you may not be going for your skipper’s ticket any time soon, few people are more qualified to speak on such things than RYA Yachtmaster Kevin Green

West

14

MAPS

15

NEW SOUTH WALES

"

es

"

MVO

Road

Pr inc "

"

d Roa

Ben Boyd

"

ater ltw Sa

"

T

y)

R i v er

Wa

l

Buck et ts

Ri

ke

T he

Branch

er

he

Riv

y(T

Wa

K

R.

Bo yd "

Ro

ck

"

ge

on

Ne

le Ho

"

C

k ree

K ) *

Haycock Hill 240m

Anna Bay

8CT

!

Worimi National Park

!

Tomaree National Park

2

! !

Boat Harbour

Shoal Bay

MC]T ws

1

FOR OUR FULL PRODUCT RANGE

Port Stephens Great Lakes Marine Park

CT

Stockton Beach

w

n lso Ne

Tasman Sea

CTB

Stockton s

!

!

Newcastle

M:T

V 0

5

10 km

© Hema Maps

Port Stephens Port Stephens is characterised by its pristine sandy beaches, calm sheltered waters and accessible surf breaks. There are some excellent dive sites to explore around the coastal area, as well as rivers and lakes if you get sick of salt. The surrounding national parks and nature reserves help maintain a feeling of tranquility, but if you want to go one step further and really escape the crowds you can pull up to one of the small islands peppered throughout the region.

1 View toward Point Stephens

2 Shoal Bay

"

ad

Road

Ro

t

ad Ro

Bay

Jimmys Beach

!

!

!

lson

8C cT B

s Nelson Bay

Salamander Corlette Bay ! !

e Tre

!

Du

m ro

d Roa Shelleys

Lem

!

National Park Ed

NP

Hawks Nest

iM8CTB

:

:C T

Rd

B

a

w A43 B A15 B

Bar Beach

ad

Tk "

H

Red Point

ad Ro

yd

"

Roa d

Salt Ash

!

Bo

"

110

Hunter Wetlands NP

!

Roa d

Cabbage Tree Road

"

East Boyd State Forest

Kiah



Lookout

"

er

a

s Pas

8

Richardson

Williamtown

Hospital/medical

" "

"

romHh

mb

A1 B

Snake he

am

Road

Information Centre

Medowie

8

Raymond Terrace

:CT

Ed

Riv "

'Here And Now'

Buc

n

"

"

Fuel

"

L

"

'Edrom Lodge'

a Tow

r

al

!

Bay

"

7 i M ]

Grahamstown Lake !

"

"

"

ay Highw

Drinking Water

r

"

"

Camping Area without facilities

T

Roadside Rest Areas (With toilets)

Jews Head

Edrom

"

~

Caravan Parks Camping Area with facilities

0

Twofold Bay

r Whale Spit

CT

Boydtown

Boat Ramps

v er t e r Ri

Ck

r

Twofold Bay

r

Newline

"

"

Lookout Point

"

B C c

un

a

ve

My

!

8TB Nelson Bay

8

Tanilba Bay !

Road

s

Green Cape Lighthouse

! !

"

Ea s

"

"

"

"

" "

" "

"

St

Yallumgo Cove

"

Nullica Bay

Myall Lakes

Tea Gardens

!

!

B

"

li c

Ro ad

Highway s in ce "

Pr

"

"

"

N ul

wa y

:CTB

M1 B

LEGEND

Imlay

"

ad

Riv e r

eos

Hig h

"

Worang Point

rr

"

"

Curalo Lagoon

Calle Calle Bay

"

Nullica

M1 B

Karuah

"

" "

"

te Ro

"

"

tt s

W il

er

"

"

"

"

co

Eden

R o ad

t

Pac ifi c

!

i8CqT

"

mb wa a " To

2 j

ah

Rd

Firetrail

r

"

! !

ar u

e owi Med

eet

he

Karuah National Park



"

S tr

Net

km

Wallaroo NP



I m l ay

Nullica State Forest

il

250

© Hema Maps

h Sea

R oad

Creek

ek

rail F iret

k

2

n e rs

Cre

A1 B

"

ee Cr

Denn "

1

ch

B

!



V 0

s

ur eb

"

i am Wi l l

ey Vin

Clarence Town

Li m

"

"

Bi m m

MVO

e Gl

250

B ra n

liam

300m

w

Th e

K ) *

R oa

Bimmil

at

oa d Br

Lane

d

ail etr Bimmil Hill Fir



R oa d

GO-TO GUIDE FOR BOATS

111

For more boating tips go to tradeaboat.com.au

CLICK HERE