NEWS DESK
Sailability afloat with community support AS the sailing season gets under way at Blairgowrie Yacht Squadron, community access participants in the club’s Sailability program are enjoying the benefits of major changes to the marina and clubhouse. Storage areas for the 303 yachts and their masts and sails have also been improved. The Sailability program’s Bendigo Bank account has been swelled by two donations: Camerons Bight Boat Club gave $2000 which is being used to buy uniforms for incoming volunteers and replacement shirts and rain slickers for current volunteers. The money will also pay for extra fenders for the yachts. Rosebud branch of the Country Women’s Association donated $1000 for replacement sails and extra equipment. Coordinator Brian Jones said a small group from Ambleside Tours, Melbourne, came on a recent Saturday for lunch and sailing for people with disabilities. About 100 year 6 pupils from St Simon the Apostle, Rowville, came for twoup sailing experiences over two days. A special session is planned for elderly residents from Ti Tree Lodge, Rosebud West. Eight Sorrento Community Centre members participated in a series of “sailing experience” afternoons. Mr Jones said at first the members sail with experienced volunteers and then in pairs or solo as they acquire new skills. This is on top of regular Tuesday sailing with those from Konnections, Kankama and Focus who support people with disabilities. These groups have been coming to BYS since 2002. Details: brianjones0305@gmail.com or call 0466 273 874.
Ready to go: Sailability yachts await their crews.
On the water: Volunteer John Trewarne and a young crewman.
Rip safety watch BOATERS are being urged to wear lifejackets and carry safety equipment this summer – especially near Port Phillip Heads. The area will be under the watchful eyes of the Water Police, who will be patrolling the area as part of Operation South End. They aim to ensure boaters safe and well equipped. Leading Senior Constable Dave McHenry said that following a coronial inquest, ‘The Rip’ was a designated hazardous area. “This designation means that under legislation people must wear life jackets in the area,” Leading Senior Constable McHenry said. “They are among an array of safety items that every boat owner should be carrying on board, but in this particular area the life jacket is especially important. “The water in the area can be very rough and should anyone fall out of the boat there could be dire consequences.” The area covers the water between Shortland Bluff, Point Nepean and Point Lonsdale. Leading Senior Constable McHenry said the operation wasn’t all about issuing infringement notices, rather educating the public about their responsibilities on the water. “The weather is slowly heating up and it’s a great time to get out on the water,” he said. “But if you can’t do it safely, don’t do it at all. “If you’re heading out on the water for the first time in a while, make sure to do a thorough inventory of your safety equipment and ensure it’s all up to date and in working order.” Operation South End will run throughout the summer.
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Open 7 days from 7am 1008 Mornington/Flinders Rd, Red Hill Phone: 5989 2680 Southern Peninsula News 13 December 2016
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