Busy time around the Waterfront
A busy week around the Queensland waterfront with new 'green' zones and changes to fisheries affecting reef users, a new licence scheme for recreational boaters seeking their first 'ticket', a new weather radar commissioned at Bowen for the Bureau of Meteorology and the fish are bitin' around the Whitsunday islands and reef.
Boat Licence
Maritime Safety Queensland (MSQ) has introduced a new competency-based training and assessment framework as a pre-requisite for the issue of a recreational boat licence.
The BoatSafe initiative aims to further improve marine safety outcomes for recreational boat users in Queensland by enhancing the scope and quality of pre-licence training and competency assessment.
In formulating the BoatSafe framework, interstate and overseas recreational marine licence training and assessment models were examined to identify benchmark standards of pre-licence operator training and assessment. The scheme is modelled on nationally recognised competency-based training and assessment principles and processes.
The new arrangements will be implemented from 1 July 2004 with a 12-month transition period during which both the existing and new training and assessment options will be available.
Yachting Queensland providers around the state will move to the new system and appreciate that it is influenced by the National Power Boat Training Scheme.
People who hold a current recreational boat licence will not be affected by the changed arrangements.
Bowen Radar beaming
A new radar at Abbot Point North of Bowen commissioned this week will be a vital link on the Queensland coast.
The continuous radar will monitor cyclone events and rainfall and be available online 24 hours a day on the Bureau of Meteorology.
"Every day, Bureau forecasters analyse and interpret a comprehensive volume of data to determine if the sun will shine on your afternoon barbeque," Dr Sharman Stone, Parliamentary Secretary with responsibility for the Australian Bureau of Meteorology
"Australians love talking about the weather but are unaware of what goes into interpreting the weather. This forum provides that opportunity."
The Bureau's website www.bom.gov.au is consistently voted one of Australia's most popular websites and regularly records between 300 and 400 million hits a month.
Dr Stone, who has responsibility for the Bureau, said that the availability of the latest radar images was an important tool for a number of groups including the fishing industry, State Emergency Service personnel, tourist operators (particularly in the weather sensitive Whitsunday's) and recreational anglers, amongst others.
"This means that those North Queenslanders planning a couple of days fishing off the Coast or heading inland in the 4WD for a camping holiday will be able to use the most up to date weather information to assist in planning their break".
The new radar at Abbott Point will enhance present coverage and make sure that North Queensland residents, who rely so heavily on accurate, up to date forecasts, receive the best possible information.
Those Zones
The Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority is distrbuting maps and CDs with all the changes to reef zones. A 'phone call to 47500700 will get the package delivered to you.
Trawler tracking
Queensland's Vessel Monitoring System (VMS) is now being used to do more than just track the state's trawl fleet to record commercial fishing effort, and ensure operators comply with east coast fisheries regulations.
VMS, a new project funded by the Department of Primary Industries and Fisheries (DPI&F) and the Fisheries Research and Development Corporation, is being taken beyond its original role.
Researchers are now using the satellite tracking technology to map fish stocks and fishing effort.
DPI&F biologist Norm Good said previously researchers were forced to rely on manually entered commercial catch and effort logbook records to map Queensland's trawl fisheries.
Mr Good said this was a less precise system with fishing effort generally recorded daily regardless of the time spent actually fishing.
As well only a single five nautical mile grid was used to record the approximate location of the day's maximum catch instead of a series of best catch locations.
"This then allows us to map the intensity of effort and catch by both region and season at virtually any scale," he said.
"By using VMS we are now mapping critical trawl grounds of the Queensland scallop, eastern king prawns and east coast tiger and endeavour prawn trawl fisheries."
Mr Good said the information was being used to develop more precise estimates of fish species abundance and sustainable levels of fishing effort.
Good fishin'
"The cold weather has brought the water temperature down to 20 degrees and the reds on the chew," reports Capt Ken Bryant.
"The reef has been fishing well when weather has permitted. The coral trout are still on the bite even in shallow water of only 5 meters while the Spanish mackerel on the surface continue to keep anglers happy with their blistering runs.
"The Mackerel season looks like the best we have seen in years due to the amount of Bait fish in the Whitsundays thanks to the rains we enjoyed early in the year. This means we are in for a good Marlin Season" Captain Ken said.
Aussie misses solo record
Ellen MacArthur, solo skipper of the Aussie built 75-foot trimaran B&Q, failed on her first attempt, to break the solo transatlantic west-east record by approximately 60 minutes after battling across the north Atlantic for the past week.
The outright record of Laurent Bourgnon, has stood for 10 years at 7 days, 2 hours, 34 minutes, 42 seconds...
The problem . . .
I need help.... desperately. I am the desperate owner of 100-year-old 50-foot wooden gem. She is under restoration, stripped and awaiting the caulking and refit and located at Batemans Bay on NSW south coast. Today I have been given moving orders...I have only weeks to move her. She needs to be caulked and refloated quickly.
IS THERE ANYONE WHO CAN HELP? Does anyone know of a shipwright in the area, or someone who would travel in a hurry to do the job? The alternative is too horrible to think about, but the flames would be seen for miles!
Kay
A solution . . .
Get the oakum, put it in, get heaps of salt and spread it around the waterline, start a garden hose on sprinklers and expand the timbers. Paint it with primer and anti-foul. Launch it and stay aboard with a big pump. If it's dry, the criminal alternative is to fibreglass the whole thing. Do it if it nearly kills you. You won't drown. Sorry to hear of your plight. Chris. WoodenBoatsAustralia
School daze
Modern Education + the Criminal Mind =
Two students confused about how to convert their cocaine from metric into ounces for sale at a private school in Victoria, B.C., asked a math teacher for help, police said.
Yacht on North Reef
Mariners are advised that the yacht "Polaris" is aground on North Reef in approximate position Latitude 23° 11.449' S, Longitude 151° 54.321' E.
The vessel has its anchor deployed and is unlit. Mariners should navigate near the area with caution. Charts affected: AUS 366, 367, 426, 819, 820
Problems?
"A positive attitude may not solve all your problems, but it will annoy enough people to make it worth the effort."
Fair winds to Ye!
Cap'n Dan
Wednesday, June 30, 2004
Wednesday, June 23, 2004
Whitsunday Boating Industry rejects criticism
Whitsunday boating operators are outraged over alleged biased and sloppy reporting slating the industry for a drop in backpacker traveller numbers.
According to the Whitsunday Charter Boat Industry Association (WCBIA), recent reports in the Courier Mail of substandard product and practices by backpacker tourism operators do not accurately reflect the state of the greater part of the Great Barrier Reefs' crewed sailing Industry.
WCBIA spokesperson Deb Lewis, told The Guardian that most Whitsunday charter boat operators are committed to professionalism, best practice standards and customer satisfaction.
"WCBIA member operators are required to adhere to a comprehensive Code of Practice that includes minimum product standards and honesty in advertising as well as commitment to environmental, social, economic and cultural issues.
"Member compliance and customer complaints processing mechanisms are an intrinsic part of the Code", Ms Lewis said.
Whitsunday crewed charter operators carry over 190,000 people every year on overnight sailing holidays in the central region of the World Heritage listed Great Barrier Reef Marine Park. The Industry contributes over $100 Million annually directly to the local economy.
"WCBIA members account for around 80% of this Industry. Customer surveys clearly indicate that the vast majority of travellers thoroughly enjoyed their Whitsunday Sailing experience. All of these people leave our region as ambassadors." Ms Lewis said.
The CM article did not reveal that the company slated was not a member of the WCBIA even when the Association made numerous attempts to ensure the facts were presented.
An industry insider told The Guardian, "Any reader or industry employee must ask a simple question. " Why is the industry and industry association being made a scapegoat for declining numbers while biased, incomplete and sensational reporting by newspaper journalists not also put on the tourism agenda"?
A meeting scheduled for Thursday between State Tourism Minister Margaret Keech and Backpacking Qld will discuss the drop in numbers and wider industry issues.
Still sporty
Entrepreneur Richard Branson set a new world record on Monday by driving across the English Channel in a James-Bond style amphibious sports car in less than two hours. The car seats three people and travels at 100mph on land and 30mph on sea. He emerged from the car, elated but wet, in a dinner jacket and bow tie after a 22-mile journey between Dover and Calais. Branson wants to put a fleet of Aquadas into service for business customers. By travelling on the Thames, he said it could cut up to 45 minutes off the trip from the City of London to Heathrow airport.
Cars Sink
A ship carrying 4,191 cars sank after colliding with an oil tanker in a busy shipping lane just south of Singapore. Twenty crewmembers were rescued from the sunken vessel and there were no reports of oil leaks.
The collision between car carrier MV Hyundai No. 105 and the tanker MT Kaminesan, carrying 279,949 tons of crude oil, occurred just before midnight, the Maritime and Ports Authority of Singapore said a report in Motor Trend.
Tugs also towed the car carrier out of the busy shipping lane - which is used by vessels travelling between west and east Asia - before it sank just before dawn in 40-metre-deep (130-feet-deep) waters that belong to neighbouring Indonesia, about five nautical miles from Singapore's main island.
The collision tore a hole measuring 50 metres by 20 metres (165 feet by 66 feet) in the side of the 17-year-old car carrier.
The cause of the accident was not clear. Weather was clear and fine at the time and both ships communicated with each other before the crash, officials said.
The vessel had departed the South Korean port of Ulsan on May 16 and was bound for Germany.
On December 14, 2002, a Norwegian-registered ship carrying hundreds of luxury cars sank in the North Sea after a collision with a container ship in thick fog.
All 24 crew members were rescued before the cargo ship Tricolor sank after the collision at the entrance of the Dover Strait between England and France.
The ship was carrying 2,862 cars, including BMWs, Volvos and Saabs, worth $40 million to $50 million, a spokesman for Norwegian shipping company Wallenius Wilhelmsen Lines said in Oslo. It also carried tractors, crane parts and escalators in 77 roll-on/roll-off containers.
What's so funny?
Housework-challenged husband decided to wash his shirt. Seconds after he stepped into the laundry room, he shouted, "What setting do I use on the washing machine?"
"It depends," the Mrs replied. "What does it say on your shirt?"
"University of New South Wales," he yelled back.
Fitzalan Passage
Mariners are advised that the lighted Special Mark buoy Fl.Y.2.5s in approximate position Latitude 20°18.7922' S, Longitude 148°56.0571' E in Fitzalan Passage which is off Whitsunday Passage has been reported to be unlit.
Mariners should use caution in the vicinity. Charts affected: US 252, 253, 254, 824
Strange places
"Laugh at yourself, but don't ever aim your doubt at yourself. Be bold. When you embark for strange places, don't leave any of yourself safely on shore. Have the nerve to go into unexplored territory."
--Alan Alda
Fair winds to Ye!
Cap'n Dan
Tuesday, June 15, 2004
Traditional ships conjure joyous energy for boat show
An outstanding day Saturday, enjoyed on the waters of Pioneer Bay when the cream of traditional ships sailed in company as part of the Oceanic Whitsunday Boat and Leisure Show.
Fine trade wind conditions gave consistent breeze encouraging crews to stack sail on their towering masts conjuring joyous energy that made the timbers shiver and hulls sing.
An opportunity not lost to hoot and ahoy to yer mates and their guests while sailing a gentlemanly course with appropriate photogenic opportunities.
On return to Abel Point Marina, crews unanimously elected historic Defender as the fleet flagship and proceeded to enjoy a fine old get together onboard.
Not a race, our regatta was a rendezvous, an encounter, a convergence and gathering. Mostly it was an experience that all reckoned a special day.
Highlights of the day included a visit by Torres Herald and Southern Cross from Bowen. Torres Herald looks pleasing with much work done including a new deckhouse. Her chequered history includes participation in the first Fun Race, a fact not lost on those savouring the celebration of sailing these magnificent ships.
Struen Marie owned by local Ken Prior took the prize for best-dressed yacht and received a fine boxed bottle of South African port complete with engraved glasses courtesy of the Rotary Club of Airlie Beach. Built in 1951 she placed first in the Sydney Hobart race of that year and held the record for over ten years.
Pequot (pronounced pee-coy) an Atkins 1925 design gaff-topsail cutter built in North Queensland in 1996 and locally owned by Peter and Jill Curwell were also awarded two bottles of fine wine from Rotary. Peter was specially thanked for the work he put in to ensure the day was memorable.
A Platypus Trophy carved by Ken Draper and donated by Platypus Campground will join the Derwent Hunter Trophy for sailing ships in future gatherings.
What does the future hold for our substantial fleet of traditional and historic sailing ships? Get involved and join Traditional Ships at tradships@hotmail.com or PO Box 155, Airlie Beach 4902.
Cars Sink
A ship carrying 4,191 cars sank after colliding with an oil tanker in a busy shipping lane just south of Singapore. Twenty crew members were rescued from the sunken vessel and there were no reports of oil leaks.
The collision between car carrier MV Hyundai No. 105 and the tanker MT Kaminesan, carrying 279,949 tons of crude oil, occurred just before midnight, the Maritime and Ports Authority of Singapore said a report in Motor Trend.
Tugs also towed the car carrier out of the busy shipping lane - which is used by vessels travelling between west and east Asia - before it sank just before dawn in 40-metre-deep (130-feet-deep) waters that belong to neighbouring Indonesia, about five nautical miles from Singapore's main island.
The collision tore a hole measuring 50 metres by 20 metres (165 feet by 66 feet) in the side of the 17-year-old car carrier.
The cause of the accident was not clear. Weather was clear and fine at the time and both ships communicated with each other before the crash, officials said.
The vessel had departed the South Korean port of Ulsan on May 16 and was bound for Germany.
On December 14, 2002, a Norwegian-registered ship carrying hundreds of luxury cars sank in the North Sea after a collision with a container ship in thick fog.
All 24 crew members were rescued before the cargo ship Tricolor sank after the collision at the entrance of the Dover Strait between England and France.
The ship was carrying 2,862 cars, including BMWs, Volvos and Saabs, worth $40 million to $50 million, a spokesman for Norwegian shipping company Wallenius Wilhelmsen Lines said in Oslo. It also carried tractors, crane parts and escalators in 77 roll-on/roll-off containers.
Fish disease found
A large number of fish caught in the Noosa River are believed to be suffering from Epizootic Ulcerative Syndrome (EUS).
Both commercial operators and recreational anglers have reported catches, predominantly yellow-finned bream, with red ulcer like lesions on their skin.
Also known as red spot disease, EUS can be fatal to fish and is known to affect more than 100 freshwater, estuarine and marine species including sand whiting, mullet, Australian bass and silver perch.
Officers from the Department of Primary Industries and Fisheries (DPI&F) and Environmental Protection Agency are investigating the outbreak.
"It is a natural cyclical event and has been reported in Queensland waterways since the early 1970s."
What's so funny?
Housework-challenged husband decided to wash his shirt. Seconds after he stepped into the laundry room, he shouted, "What setting do I use on the washing machine?"
"It depends," the Mrs replied. "What does it say on your shirt?"
"University of Queensland," he yelled back.
Stone Island Light, Bowen
Mariners are advised that a light has been established on Stone Island Jetty, FL (2) 6s in position Latitude 20°01.857' S, Longitude 148°16.6308' E. Charts affected: AUS 268, 825
See their beauty!
"Far away there in the sunshine are my highest aspirations. I may not reach them, but I can look up and see their beauty, believe in them, and try to follow where they lead."
--Louisa May Alcott
Fair winds to Ye!
Cap'n Dan
An outstanding day Saturday, enjoyed on the waters of Pioneer Bay when the cream of traditional ships sailed in company as part of the Oceanic Whitsunday Boat and Leisure Show.
Fine trade wind conditions gave consistent breeze encouraging crews to stack sail on their towering masts conjuring joyous energy that made the timbers shiver and hulls sing.
An opportunity not lost to hoot and ahoy to yer mates and their guests while sailing a gentlemanly course with appropriate photogenic opportunities.
On return to Abel Point Marina, crews unanimously elected historic Defender as the fleet flagship and proceeded to enjoy a fine old get together onboard.
Not a race, our regatta was a rendezvous, an encounter, a convergence and gathering. Mostly it was an experience that all reckoned a special day.
Highlights of the day included a visit by Torres Herald and Southern Cross from Bowen. Torres Herald looks pleasing with much work done including a new deckhouse. Her chequered history includes participation in the first Fun Race, a fact not lost on those savouring the celebration of sailing these magnificent ships.
Struen Marie owned by local Ken Prior took the prize for best-dressed yacht and received a fine boxed bottle of South African port complete with engraved glasses courtesy of the Rotary Club of Airlie Beach. Built in 1951 she placed first in the Sydney Hobart race of that year and held the record for over ten years.
Pequot (pronounced pee-coy) an Atkins 1925 design gaff-topsail cutter built in North Queensland in 1996 and locally owned by Peter and Jill Curwell were also awarded two bottles of fine wine from Rotary. Peter was specially thanked for the work he put in to ensure the day was memorable.
A Platypus Trophy carved by Ken Draper and donated by Platypus Campground will join the Derwent Hunter Trophy for sailing ships in future gatherings.
What does the future hold for our substantial fleet of traditional and historic sailing ships? Get involved and join Traditional Ships at tradships@hotmail.com or PO Box 155, Airlie Beach 4902.
Cars Sink
A ship carrying 4,191 cars sank after colliding with an oil tanker in a busy shipping lane just south of Singapore. Twenty crew members were rescued from the sunken vessel and there were no reports of oil leaks.
The collision between car carrier MV Hyundai No. 105 and the tanker MT Kaminesan, carrying 279,949 tons of crude oil, occurred just before midnight, the Maritime and Ports Authority of Singapore said a report in Motor Trend.
Tugs also towed the car carrier out of the busy shipping lane - which is used by vessels travelling between west and east Asia - before it sank just before dawn in 40-metre-deep (130-feet-deep) waters that belong to neighbouring Indonesia, about five nautical miles from Singapore's main island.
The collision tore a hole measuring 50 metres by 20 metres (165 feet by 66 feet) in the side of the 17-year-old car carrier.
The cause of the accident was not clear. Weather was clear and fine at the time and both ships communicated with each other before the crash, officials said.
The vessel had departed the South Korean port of Ulsan on May 16 and was bound for Germany.
On December 14, 2002, a Norwegian-registered ship carrying hundreds of luxury cars sank in the North Sea after a collision with a container ship in thick fog.
All 24 crew members were rescued before the cargo ship Tricolor sank after the collision at the entrance of the Dover Strait between England and France.
The ship was carrying 2,862 cars, including BMWs, Volvos and Saabs, worth $40 million to $50 million, a spokesman for Norwegian shipping company Wallenius Wilhelmsen Lines said in Oslo. It also carried tractors, crane parts and escalators in 77 roll-on/roll-off containers.
Fish disease found
A large number of fish caught in the Noosa River are believed to be suffering from Epizootic Ulcerative Syndrome (EUS).
Both commercial operators and recreational anglers have reported catches, predominantly yellow-finned bream, with red ulcer like lesions on their skin.
Also known as red spot disease, EUS can be fatal to fish and is known to affect more than 100 freshwater, estuarine and marine species including sand whiting, mullet, Australian bass and silver perch.
Officers from the Department of Primary Industries and Fisheries (DPI&F) and Environmental Protection Agency are investigating the outbreak.
"It is a natural cyclical event and has been reported in Queensland waterways since the early 1970s."
What's so funny?
Housework-challenged husband decided to wash his shirt. Seconds after he stepped into the laundry room, he shouted, "What setting do I use on the washing machine?"
"It depends," the Mrs replied. "What does it say on your shirt?"
"University of Queensland," he yelled back.
Stone Island Light, Bowen
Mariners are advised that a light has been established on Stone Island Jetty, FL (2) 6s in position Latitude 20°01.857' S, Longitude 148°16.6308' E. Charts affected: AUS 268, 825
See their beauty!
"Far away there in the sunshine are my highest aspirations. I may not reach them, but I can look up and see their beauty, believe in them, and try to follow where they lead."
--Louisa May Alcott
Fair winds to Ye!
Cap'n Dan
Huge weekend starts Whitsunday 'winter' activities
The June long weekend is the start of our Whitsunday 'winter' activities with something for everybody.
The Oceanic Boat and Leisure Show at Airlie will provide plenty for boat lovers with the most modern motor and sailing vessels on show to the beautiful old traditional ships that have plied the oceans of the world for over a hundred years.
Sunday will see many people travel to Dingo Beach for another WhitFunDay sponsored by the Proserpine Lions. A prize of $1000 and plenty of activities will ensure the family will be entertained. Proceeds raised will benefit the Proserpine Hospital and the Gloucester Sports & Recreation Assn.
The Whitsunday Fishing Classic will attract a crowd with the Fishabout Fishing Club offering over $35,000 worth of prizes. Not bad for going out and wetting a line. Fishing starts early on Saturday morning. Held on the Bay at the Whitsunday Sailing Club.
Park zones displayed
Recent changes to the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority website and the release of an upgraded CD will help find the new Marine Park zone co-ordinates.
"The maps and the co-ordinates which went to Parliament have been available electronically since December last year and thousands have been downloaded but this most recent innovation, will make them even more informative and useful to park users," John Tanzer, Executive Director of the Marine Park Authority told The Guardian.
Due to improvements in mapping technology, GPS co-ordinates for all green and pink zones in the Marine Park will now appear on the new zoning maps available on the website and CDs.
"This is part of our continuing program of improvement on earlier mapping products and allows the many users with a variety of electronic mapping products to accurately fix their position at all times."
"We currently have some 378,000 hard copy maps in production which will be publicly available mid-June. This will ensure that everyone who uses the Marine Park will have access to maps to allow them to safely and legally use the park for recreational or commercial pursuits," Mr Tanzer said.
The new printed zoning maps along with detailed information brochures will be made available through a network of 140 community access points along the GBR coast - predominantly bait & tackle stores, QPWS offices and the like.
The July 1 commencement date for the new zoning is being advertised along the GBR coast. New boat ramp signs will also be in place for July and another round of Community Information Sessions will take place along the GBR coast to ensure all users have the opportunity to ask further questions of the GBRMPA staff.
Fair winds to Ye!
Cap'n Dan
The June long weekend is the start of our Whitsunday 'winter' activities with something for everybody.
The Oceanic Boat and Leisure Show at Airlie will provide plenty for boat lovers with the most modern motor and sailing vessels on show to the beautiful old traditional ships that have plied the oceans of the world for over a hundred years.
Sunday will see many people travel to Dingo Beach for another WhitFunDay sponsored by the Proserpine Lions. A prize of $1000 and plenty of activities will ensure the family will be entertained. Proceeds raised will benefit the Proserpine Hospital and the Gloucester Sports & Recreation Assn.
The Whitsunday Fishing Classic will attract a crowd with the Fishabout Fishing Club offering over $35,000 worth of prizes. Not bad for going out and wetting a line. Fishing starts early on Saturday morning. Held on the Bay at the Whitsunday Sailing Club.
Park zones displayed
Recent changes to the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority website and the release of an upgraded CD will help find the new Marine Park zone co-ordinates.
"The maps and the co-ordinates which went to Parliament have been available electronically since December last year and thousands have been downloaded but this most recent innovation, will make them even more informative and useful to park users," John Tanzer, Executive Director of the Marine Park Authority told The Guardian.
Due to improvements in mapping technology, GPS co-ordinates for all green and pink zones in the Marine Park will now appear on the new zoning maps available on the website and CDs.
"This is part of our continuing program of improvement on earlier mapping products and allows the many users with a variety of electronic mapping products to accurately fix their position at all times."
"We currently have some 378,000 hard copy maps in production which will be publicly available mid-June. This will ensure that everyone who uses the Marine Park will have access to maps to allow them to safely and legally use the park for recreational or commercial pursuits," Mr Tanzer said.
The new printed zoning maps along with detailed information brochures will be made available through a network of 140 community access points along the GBR coast - predominantly bait & tackle stores, QPWS offices and the like.
The July 1 commencement date for the new zoning is being advertised along the GBR coast. New boat ramp signs will also be in place for July and another round of Community Information Sessions will take place along the GBR coast to ensure all users have the opportunity to ask further questions of the GBRMPA staff.
Fair winds to Ye!
Cap'n Dan
Wednesday, June 02, 2004
Wanted: Crew for Kids
Sailors with disABLITIES
Around Australia World Record Holders, Sailors with disABLITIES (SWD) is calling for volunteers who would like to be involved helping kids experience sailing.
Kicking off from Airlie Beach on 31 August, the NRMA Insurance Northern Youth Campaign, provides the opportunity for disabled children to experience sailing for the first time, and by doing so encourages them to pursue their goals. The program also gives carers a chance to enjoy a day on the water.
Crew volunteers are required to assist with disabled children who will be sailing out of Airlie Beach, then Mackay, Rosslyn Bay, and Mooloolaba. Volunteers can be from each port or within close proximity.
David PESCUD, President of Sailors with disABILITIES told Waterfront "We're now looking for people who'd like to join us as we make our way down the Queensland coast. You can be with us in one port only, or join us for a run through a couple of ports.
"Volunteers will spend time at sea aboard the 54-foot around Australia record-breaking yacht, meet the crew, but more importantly, this program is about having fun for everyone. It all takes place in Queensland waters and we need people who are enthusiastic, enjoy sailing, love working with kids."
Provisional crewing dates for volunteers: Airlie Beach 31 August and 1 September - six volunteers each day - 1 September - 2 September - four volunteers to sail boat to Mackay
NRMA Insurance has teamed with Sailors with DisABILITIES to support the youth program and is looking forward to seeing everyone at these inspiring sailing expeditions with children from special schools and their carers.
For more information on the specific dates and arrangements, please contact On The Waterfront C/ The Guardian.
Aussie party looms
The first Aussie Latitudes and Attitudes Cruisers Party is set for the evening of Saturday June 12 at the Whitsunday Sailing Club says organiser Phil (Subz) Solomon.
"Capt. Woody (Woody Henderson), one of the main writers with the Latitudes and Attitudes Cruiser's Magazine, is currently sailing over here and will arrive a week or so before the party." Subz said.
"There are also two LACC (Lats and Atts Cruising Club) members flying over from Seattle, USA, as they want to be present at the first Aussie Party, so as you can see, the word is getting around."
"The party is just for fun and to show all the Yanks that Aussies can have a Lats and Atts Party as well and don't just have to read about them in the magazine!"
It will take the format of a Jimmy Buffett type Parrothead party with our own Airlie Beach special tropical feel. It will be a free entry and free entertainment on the night and prizes and giveaways
Sunsail, who sponsor all the L&A Parties in the States, are helping out and they have a charter to raffle off to raise the money to pay for the entertainment and any extra that is made will go to Rotary.
"Hopefully it will become a yearly event and part of the Queen's Birthday weekend fun of Airlie Beach" Subz said.
Park zones displayed
Recent changes to the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority website and the release of an upgraded CD will help find the new Marine Park zone co-ordinates.
"The maps and the co-ordinates which went to Parliament have been available electronically since December last year and thousands have been downloaded but this most recent innovation, will make them even more informative and useful to park users," John Tanzer, Executive Director of the Marine Park Authority told The Guardian.
Due to improvements in mapping technology, GPS co-ordinates for all green and pink zones in the Marine Park will now appear on the new zoning maps available on the website and CDs.
"This is part of our continuing program of improvement on earlier mapping products and allows the many users with a variety of electronic mapping products to accurately fix their position at all times."
"We currently have some 378,000 hard copy maps in production which will be publicly available mid-June. This will ensure that everyone who uses the Marine Park will have access to maps to allow them to safely and legally use the park for recreational or commercial pursuits," Mr Tanzer said.
The new printed zoning maps along with detailed information brochures will be made available through a network of 140 community access points along the GBR coast - predominantly bait & tackle stores, QPWS offices and the like.
The July 1 commencement date for the new zoning is being advertised along the GBR coast. New boat ramp signs will also be in place for July and another round of Community Information Sessions will take place along the GBR coast to ensure all users have the opportunity to ask further questions of the GBRMPA staff.
What's so funny?
Housework-challenged husband decided to wash his shirt. Seconds after he stepped into the laundry room, he shouted, "What setting do I use on the washing machine?"
"It depends," the Mrs replied. "What does it say on your shirt?"
"University of Queensland," he yelled back.
Stone Island Light, Bowen
Mariners are advised that a light has been established on Stone Island Jetty, FL (2) 6s in position Latitude 20°01.857' S, Longitude 148°16.6308' E. Charts affected: AUS 268, 825
Keep the faith!
"It's lack of faith that makes people afraid of meeting challenges, and I believe in myself"
-- Muhammad Ali
Fair winds to Ye!
Cap'n Dan
Sailors with disABLITIES
Around Australia World Record Holders, Sailors with disABLITIES (SWD) is calling for volunteers who would like to be involved helping kids experience sailing.
Kicking off from Airlie Beach on 31 August, the NRMA Insurance Northern Youth Campaign, provides the opportunity for disabled children to experience sailing for the first time, and by doing so encourages them to pursue their goals. The program also gives carers a chance to enjoy a day on the water.
Crew volunteers are required to assist with disabled children who will be sailing out of Airlie Beach, then Mackay, Rosslyn Bay, and Mooloolaba. Volunteers can be from each port or within close proximity.
David PESCUD, President of Sailors with disABILITIES told Waterfront "We're now looking for people who'd like to join us as we make our way down the Queensland coast. You can be with us in one port only, or join us for a run through a couple of ports.
"Volunteers will spend time at sea aboard the 54-foot around Australia record-breaking yacht, meet the crew, but more importantly, this program is about having fun for everyone. It all takes place in Queensland waters and we need people who are enthusiastic, enjoy sailing, love working with kids."
Provisional crewing dates for volunteers: Airlie Beach 31 August and 1 September - six volunteers each day - 1 September - 2 September - four volunteers to sail boat to Mackay
NRMA Insurance has teamed with Sailors with DisABILITIES to support the youth program and is looking forward to seeing everyone at these inspiring sailing expeditions with children from special schools and their carers.
For more information on the specific dates and arrangements, please contact On The Waterfront C/ The Guardian.
Aussie party looms
The first Aussie Latitudes and Attitudes Cruisers Party is set for the evening of Saturday June 12 at the Whitsunday Sailing Club says organiser Phil (Subz) Solomon.
"Capt. Woody (Woody Henderson), one of the main writers with the Latitudes and Attitudes Cruiser's Magazine, is currently sailing over here and will arrive a week or so before the party." Subz said.
"There are also two LACC (Lats and Atts Cruising Club) members flying over from Seattle, USA, as they want to be present at the first Aussie Party, so as you can see, the word is getting around."
"The party is just for fun and to show all the Yanks that Aussies can have a Lats and Atts Party as well and don't just have to read about them in the magazine!"
It will take the format of a Jimmy Buffett type Parrothead party with our own Airlie Beach special tropical feel. It will be a free entry and free entertainment on the night and prizes and giveaways
Sunsail, who sponsor all the L&A Parties in the States, are helping out and they have a charter to raffle off to raise the money to pay for the entertainment and any extra that is made will go to Rotary.
"Hopefully it will become a yearly event and part of the Queen's Birthday weekend fun of Airlie Beach" Subz said.
Park zones displayed
Recent changes to the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority website and the release of an upgraded CD will help find the new Marine Park zone co-ordinates.
"The maps and the co-ordinates which went to Parliament have been available electronically since December last year and thousands have been downloaded but this most recent innovation, will make them even more informative and useful to park users," John Tanzer, Executive Director of the Marine Park Authority told The Guardian.
Due to improvements in mapping technology, GPS co-ordinates for all green and pink zones in the Marine Park will now appear on the new zoning maps available on the website and CDs.
"This is part of our continuing program of improvement on earlier mapping products and allows the many users with a variety of electronic mapping products to accurately fix their position at all times."
"We currently have some 378,000 hard copy maps in production which will be publicly available mid-June. This will ensure that everyone who uses the Marine Park will have access to maps to allow them to safely and legally use the park for recreational or commercial pursuits," Mr Tanzer said.
The new printed zoning maps along with detailed information brochures will be made available through a network of 140 community access points along the GBR coast - predominantly bait & tackle stores, QPWS offices and the like.
The July 1 commencement date for the new zoning is being advertised along the GBR coast. New boat ramp signs will also be in place for July and another round of Community Information Sessions will take place along the GBR coast to ensure all users have the opportunity to ask further questions of the GBRMPA staff.
What's so funny?
Housework-challenged husband decided to wash his shirt. Seconds after he stepped into the laundry room, he shouted, "What setting do I use on the washing machine?"
"It depends," the Mrs replied. "What does it say on your shirt?"
"University of Queensland," he yelled back.
Stone Island Light, Bowen
Mariners are advised that a light has been established on Stone Island Jetty, FL (2) 6s in position Latitude 20°01.857' S, Longitude 148°16.6308' E. Charts affected: AUS 268, 825
Keep the faith!
"It's lack of faith that makes people afraid of meeting challenges, and I believe in myself"
-- Muhammad Ali
Fair winds to Ye!
Cap'n Dan
Monday, May 31, 2004
Blessing of the Fleet this weekend
On Sunday morning, the Blessing of the Fleet Sailpast will include offbeach dinghies and catamarans, privately owned offshore yachts and cruisers, bareboats, day charter boats and fishing boats.
If you want to take part on the water, it is easy. Just be on board your yacht or dinghy by 1030hrs. Put up all decoration or bunting and flags that you have, and sail from the direction of Coral Sea Resort towards the Sailing Club into Boat Haven Bay. If you feel you may need a little more protection (or absolution) participants are welcome to recircle to assure themselves that the job's done properly.
If you want to take part on land, come along to the Whitsunday Sailing Club Open Day run in conjunction with the Blessing of the Fleet. Bring that neglected offbeach boat, or bring your sailing clothes and have a go at sailing with experienced sailors.
The WSC Marine Swap Meet may well be your chance to sell or swap gear that you are not using, or to pick up a bargain for your boat or home. Bring along that unused or unusual boating or fishing gear and set up a table or stall. Info 49467138.
Boat licences change
Police charges against a boat licence examiner have prompted a review of recreational boaties' licences issued statewide according to Transport Minister Paul Lucas.
Mr Lucas said that following police charges of official corruption against an authorised examiner, Maritime Safety Queensland had begun a review of all examiner procedures.
"Maritime Safety Queensland officers are working closely with police, who arrested a man in February, 2004, as part of a separate investigation," Mr Lucas said.
"Maritime Safety Queensland has cancelled the man's authority to carry out examinations.
"As a result of the police investigation, Maritime Safety Queensland has identified more than 800 recreational boaties' licences that may have been illegally issued.
"These licences were issued between January, 2001, and February, 2004, in Townsville, and may have been issued without the applicant having completed the required tests to prove their competence.
"Maritime Safety Queensland is now writing to more than 800 people who have been identified as holding licences issued on the basis of suspect test reports.
"Maritime Safety Queensland is giving these people an opportunity to show they obtained their test report legitimately. If they can't, their licences will be cancelled.
"People who want to enjoy our waterways in boats must first pass tests on practice and theory to maintain the state government's high standards of safety, which help to prevent accidents and marine pollution."
Maritime Safety Queensland establishes guidelines for the State's recreational boat users. The requirements for recreational boat licensing in Queensland are the toughest in Australia, Mr Lucas said.
"Boating has to be safe to be enjoyable," Mr Lucas said.
"Maritime Safety Queensland has worked closely with police in this matter. Ensuring marine competency and safety are priorities I take very seriously."
There are more than 480,000 recreational ship master's licences issued in Queensland.
Under the Transport Operations (Marine Safety) Act, anyone found in charge of a vessel without having a recreational ship master's licence can be issued with a $375 on-the-spot fine.
Boaters get arty for show
$6,000 in prize money is the lure for painters and photographers from the 175,000 residents of Central Queensland able to compete at the Oceanic Whitsunday Boat and Leisure Show in June.
The Rotary Club of Airlie Beach have added an art exhibition based on marine themes and sponsored by The Shipowners Club of London.
"We thought that a first-class exhibition of marine art would interest some of the thousands that attended last year, particularly those that go along with Dad but may not be that keen on boats, ropes and hopes of fair weather" curator of the exhibition, Mr Tony Fossey, said
"To keep in line with the main theme of the weekend, we chose plain, simple, 'marine' as the subject to portray. The majority of visual artists and photographers in Central Queensland should find plenty of beautiful marine subjects here to portray. We have defined marine as being ' Of, From, Beside, For use on - the sea" Mr Fossey added.
Primary pirates art
Primary pirates in shire schools are taking part in art and writing competitions with prizes worth working for from BeachWorx. The competition closes on June 1, so get your entry in.
Hi-tech sting foils crab poacher
Decoy mud crabs fitted with secret buzzing tags have foiled a Cairns poacher caught red-handed during a surveillance operation at the weekend.
Department of Primary Industries and Fisheries officers launched the covert operation after being inundated with complaints about crab pot interference from angry recreational and commercial fishers.
Queensland Boating and Fisheries Patrol (QBFP) district manager Bob Koch said Sunday's surveillance operation in Trinity Inlet involved micro-tagged mud crabs set up in crab pots that were closely monitored by officers.
"You could say we went fishing for a crab poacher, using the micro-tagged mud crabs as bait," Mr Koch said.
He said a man would face Cairns Magistrates Court next month on a charge related to Sunday's incident.
"Under Fisheries regulations the only persons who can lift a crab pot is the owner and a fisheries inspector. And penalties are steep, with a maximum fine of $37,500 for offenders," Mr Koch said.
"This is also an activity that draws complaints from the fishing public and it is one we take seriously.
"So would-be poachers should be very careful, because they don't know who is watching."
ATSB introduces a Confidential Marine Reporting Scheme
As of 20 May 2004, seafarers are able to make their safety concerns known under a new Australian Government safety initiative.
The Australian Transport Safety Bureau (ATSB) has introduced a Confidential Marine Reporting Scheme (CMRS) to improve safety in Australian waters by preventing or reducing the risks of marine accidents.
Seafarers and others connected with the marine industry will now be able to report, confidentially, any unsafe conditions, practices or procedures on ships. The scheme is also intended for use, for instance, by a passenger on a ship or a person ashore who observes and wishes to report a marine safety issue.
Under the Transport Safety Investigation Act 2003, the ATSB investigates and reports on marine accidents. Now, under the Navigation (Confidential Marine Reporting Scheme) Regulations 2004, the ATSB will accept and act, where appropriate, on confidential marine reports.
All reports will be processed to ensure that the identities of reporters are kept confidential.
The scheme encourages the reporting of safety issues by ship's crews and people concerned for maritime safety. However, it may not be used by masters and others who have an obligation, under other legislation, to report accidents where they were involved. Neither is the scheme intended for reporting industrial relations issues or unlawful interference with a ship.
Reports will be accepted by phone, email, fax or on-line or by using the ATSB's confidential marine reporting form. Any reference to, or any information that might identify, a reporter will be removed to 'de-identify' each report. Reports will then be assessed by experienced mariners who will determine what action is required. The de-identified information will be entered into a secure database to enable the reports to be analysed for safety information or trends.
The information from confidential reports may be forwarded by the ATSB to the Australian Maritime Safety Authority. The information may also be used to issue information briefs or alert bulletins to the maritime community. The ATSB will publish reviews of information from confidential reports and will assess the effectiveness of the scheme with a committee established for that purpose.
Traditional sailors set sail for Show
Traditional sailors and their beautiful sailing ships will take part at the show.
"Rotary are featuring these magnificent traditional ships sailed by iron men and women at our show this year" says Club President Michael Elliott.
Traditional Ships regatta information on 4948 2186 or tradships@hotmail.com
Sailor mongering
The Greenpeace organisation is on trial in the United States accused of breaking a law against 'sailor mongering' last used 114 years ago.
Sailor mongering was rife in the 19th century when unsavoury establishments sent demimondaines laden with booze to lure sailors off their ships as they made their way to harbour. The sailors then held in bondage to pay off their lodging, food and indebtedness.
The sailor mongering law, only used twice and last applied in 1890, makes it a crime to board a ship without authorisation.
Greenpeace members boarded a freighter carrying illegally harvested Amazon mahogany off Miami in 2002.
Lights back on
Mariners are advised that the landfall beacon with an all round white light Fl.6s on the southern end of Cid Island has been restored to normal.
Mariners are advised that the following lighted beacons located at Hayman Island have been restored to normal: - No. 1 and No. 3 Hayman Marina, Starboard Lateral Mark Beacons. Charts affected: AUS 253, 824, 825.
Be creative!
"Creativity is inventing, experimenting, pondering, growing, taking risks, breaking rules, making mistakes, and having fun."
Fair winds to Ye!
Cap'n Dan
On Sunday morning, the Blessing of the Fleet Sailpast will include offbeach dinghies and catamarans, privately owned offshore yachts and cruisers, bareboats, day charter boats and fishing boats.
If you want to take part on the water, it is easy. Just be on board your yacht or dinghy by 1030hrs. Put up all decoration or bunting and flags that you have, and sail from the direction of Coral Sea Resort towards the Sailing Club into Boat Haven Bay. If you feel you may need a little more protection (or absolution) participants are welcome to recircle to assure themselves that the job's done properly.
If you want to take part on land, come along to the Whitsunday Sailing Club Open Day run in conjunction with the Blessing of the Fleet. Bring that neglected offbeach boat, or bring your sailing clothes and have a go at sailing with experienced sailors.
The WSC Marine Swap Meet may well be your chance to sell or swap gear that you are not using, or to pick up a bargain for your boat or home. Bring along that unused or unusual boating or fishing gear and set up a table or stall. Info 49467138.
Boat licences change
Police charges against a boat licence examiner have prompted a review of recreational boaties' licences issued statewide according to Transport Minister Paul Lucas.
Mr Lucas said that following police charges of official corruption against an authorised examiner, Maritime Safety Queensland had begun a review of all examiner procedures.
"Maritime Safety Queensland officers are working closely with police, who arrested a man in February, 2004, as part of a separate investigation," Mr Lucas said.
"Maritime Safety Queensland has cancelled the man's authority to carry out examinations.
"As a result of the police investigation, Maritime Safety Queensland has identified more than 800 recreational boaties' licences that may have been illegally issued.
"These licences were issued between January, 2001, and February, 2004, in Townsville, and may have been issued without the applicant having completed the required tests to prove their competence.
"Maritime Safety Queensland is now writing to more than 800 people who have been identified as holding licences issued on the basis of suspect test reports.
"Maritime Safety Queensland is giving these people an opportunity to show they obtained their test report legitimately. If they can't, their licences will be cancelled.
"People who want to enjoy our waterways in boats must first pass tests on practice and theory to maintain the state government's high standards of safety, which help to prevent accidents and marine pollution."
Maritime Safety Queensland establishes guidelines for the State's recreational boat users. The requirements for recreational boat licensing in Queensland are the toughest in Australia, Mr Lucas said.
"Boating has to be safe to be enjoyable," Mr Lucas said.
"Maritime Safety Queensland has worked closely with police in this matter. Ensuring marine competency and safety are priorities I take very seriously."
There are more than 480,000 recreational ship master's licences issued in Queensland.
Under the Transport Operations (Marine Safety) Act, anyone found in charge of a vessel without having a recreational ship master's licence can be issued with a $375 on-the-spot fine.
Boaters get arty for show
$6,000 in prize money is the lure for painters and photographers from the 175,000 residents of Central Queensland able to compete at the Oceanic Whitsunday Boat and Leisure Show in June.
The Rotary Club of Airlie Beach have added an art exhibition based on marine themes and sponsored by The Shipowners Club of London.
"We thought that a first-class exhibition of marine art would interest some of the thousands that attended last year, particularly those that go along with Dad but may not be that keen on boats, ropes and hopes of fair weather" curator of the exhibition, Mr Tony Fossey, said
"To keep in line with the main theme of the weekend, we chose plain, simple, 'marine' as the subject to portray. The majority of visual artists and photographers in Central Queensland should find plenty of beautiful marine subjects here to portray. We have defined marine as being ' Of, From, Beside, For use on - the sea" Mr Fossey added.
Primary pirates art
Primary pirates in shire schools are taking part in art and writing competitions with prizes worth working for from BeachWorx. The competition closes on June 1, so get your entry in.
Hi-tech sting foils crab poacher
Decoy mud crabs fitted with secret buzzing tags have foiled a Cairns poacher caught red-handed during a surveillance operation at the weekend.
Department of Primary Industries and Fisheries officers launched the covert operation after being inundated with complaints about crab pot interference from angry recreational and commercial fishers.
Queensland Boating and Fisheries Patrol (QBFP) district manager Bob Koch said Sunday's surveillance operation in Trinity Inlet involved micro-tagged mud crabs set up in crab pots that were closely monitored by officers.
"You could say we went fishing for a crab poacher, using the micro-tagged mud crabs as bait," Mr Koch said.
He said a man would face Cairns Magistrates Court next month on a charge related to Sunday's incident.
"Under Fisheries regulations the only persons who can lift a crab pot is the owner and a fisheries inspector. And penalties are steep, with a maximum fine of $37,500 for offenders," Mr Koch said.
"This is also an activity that draws complaints from the fishing public and it is one we take seriously.
"So would-be poachers should be very careful, because they don't know who is watching."
ATSB introduces a Confidential Marine Reporting Scheme
As of 20 May 2004, seafarers are able to make their safety concerns known under a new Australian Government safety initiative.
The Australian Transport Safety Bureau (ATSB) has introduced a Confidential Marine Reporting Scheme (CMRS) to improve safety in Australian waters by preventing or reducing the risks of marine accidents.
Seafarers and others connected with the marine industry will now be able to report, confidentially, any unsafe conditions, practices or procedures on ships. The scheme is also intended for use, for instance, by a passenger on a ship or a person ashore who observes and wishes to report a marine safety issue.
Under the Transport Safety Investigation Act 2003, the ATSB investigates and reports on marine accidents. Now, under the Navigation (Confidential Marine Reporting Scheme) Regulations 2004, the ATSB will accept and act, where appropriate, on confidential marine reports.
All reports will be processed to ensure that the identities of reporters are kept confidential.
The scheme encourages the reporting of safety issues by ship's crews and people concerned for maritime safety. However, it may not be used by masters and others who have an obligation, under other legislation, to report accidents where they were involved. Neither is the scheme intended for reporting industrial relations issues or unlawful interference with a ship.
Reports will be accepted by phone, email, fax or on-line or by using the ATSB's confidential marine reporting form. Any reference to, or any information that might identify, a reporter will be removed to 'de-identify' each report. Reports will then be assessed by experienced mariners who will determine what action is required. The de-identified information will be entered into a secure database to enable the reports to be analysed for safety information or trends.
The information from confidential reports may be forwarded by the ATSB to the Australian Maritime Safety Authority. The information may also be used to issue information briefs or alert bulletins to the maritime community. The ATSB will publish reviews of information from confidential reports and will assess the effectiveness of the scheme with a committee established for that purpose.
Traditional sailors set sail for Show
Traditional sailors and their beautiful sailing ships will take part at the show.
"Rotary are featuring these magnificent traditional ships sailed by iron men and women at our show this year" says Club President Michael Elliott.
Traditional Ships regatta information on 4948 2186 or tradships@hotmail.com
Sailor mongering
The Greenpeace organisation is on trial in the United States accused of breaking a law against 'sailor mongering' last used 114 years ago.
Sailor mongering was rife in the 19th century when unsavoury establishments sent demimondaines laden with booze to lure sailors off their ships as they made their way to harbour. The sailors then held in bondage to pay off their lodging, food and indebtedness.
The sailor mongering law, only used twice and last applied in 1890, makes it a crime to board a ship without authorisation.
Greenpeace members boarded a freighter carrying illegally harvested Amazon mahogany off Miami in 2002.
Lights back on
Mariners are advised that the landfall beacon with an all round white light Fl.6s on the southern end of Cid Island has been restored to normal.
Mariners are advised that the following lighted beacons located at Hayman Island have been restored to normal: - No. 1 and No. 3 Hayman Marina, Starboard Lateral Mark Beacons. Charts affected: AUS 253, 824, 825.
Be creative!
"Creativity is inventing, experimenting, pondering, growing, taking risks, breaking rules, making mistakes, and having fun."
Fair winds to Ye!
Cap'n Dan
Wednesday, May 19, 2004
Blessing of the Fleet set for Whitsun
In 1770, James Cook mistakenly named the Whitsunday Islands after Whitsun, the seventh Sunday after Easter. As Cook had crossed the then unknown dateline, he should have called them the Whitmondays. It was still early days navigation wise.
Whitsun is also called Pentecost Sunday so Pentecost Island was the first island in the Whitsunday group to be named and the only one in the group named by Cook, in June 1770 with the phrase "More remarkable than the rest".
This year the Whitsunday Sailing Club will again host the annual Blessing of the Fleet on Whitsunday, May 30th. A multi-denominational service will be conducted on the club lawns, overlooking Pioneer Bay, starting at 1100hrs.
The Blessing of the Fleet Sailpast will include offbeach dinghies and catamarans, privately owned offshore yachts and cruisers, bareboats, day charter boats and fishing boats. It is easy to participate in the Sailpast.
What else is happening? The Whitsunday Sailing Club Open Day and the Marine Swap Meet.
Would you like to come down and try sailing?
The WSC Marine Swap Meet may well be your chance to sell or swap gear that you are not using, or to pick up a bargain for your boat or home. Bring along that unused or unusual boating or fishing gear and set up a table or stall. Details 4946 6138.
Boaters get arty for show
$6,000 in prize money is the lure for painters and photographers from the 175,000 residents of Central Queensland able to compete at the Oceanic Whitsunday Boat and Leisure Show in June.
The Rotary Club of Airlie Beach have added an art exhibition based on marine themes and sponsored by The Shipowners Club of London.
"We thought that a first-class exhibition of marine art would interest some of the thousands that attended last year, particularly those that go along with Dad but may not be that keen on boats, ropes and hopes of fair weather" curator of the exhibition, Mr Tony Fossey, said
"To keep in line with the main theme of the weekend, we chose plain, simple, 'marine' as the subject to portray. The majority of visual artists and photographers in Central Queensland should find plenty of beautiful marine subjects here to portray. We have defined marine as being ' Of, From, Beside, For use on - the sea" Mr Fossey added.
Primary pirates art
Primary pirates in shire schools are taking part in art and writing competitions with prizes worth working for from BeachWorx. The competition closes on June 1, so get your entry in.
Pirates of the Whitsundays: The basics
Pirate lingo is rich and complicated, sort of like a good stew. Here are the five basic words that you cannot live without.
Ahoy! - "Hello!"
Avast! - Stop and give attention. It can be used in a sense of surprise.
Aye! - "Why yes, I agree most heartily with everything you just said or did."
Aye aye! - "I'll get right on that sir."
Arrr! Or Arrrgh. "Arrr!" can mean, variously, "yes," "I agree," "I'm happy," "I'm enjoying this XXXX, "That was a clever remark you or I just made." Moreover, those are just a few of the myriad possibilities of Arrr!
Traditional sailors set sail for Show
Traditional sailors and their beautiful sailing ships will take part at the show.
" Rotary are featuring these magnificent traditional ships sailed by iron men and women at our show this year" says Club President Michael Elliott.
Traditional Ships regatta information on 4948 2186 or tradships@hotmail.com
ProSail - Ten years
Whitsunday charter boat operator ProSail celebrates ten years in business this week. Prosail has grown to become the largest skippered and catered sailing holiday company in Australia and employs over 100 staff says the operator.
Established 1994 by Simon Latchford, ProSail now creates 40,000 meals a month, and delivers 54,000 bed nights a year.
The latest edition of two America's Cup 12 metre yachts 'Australia' and 'Steak N' Kidney' has taken the fleet to 19 yachts, and has seen its founder Simon Latchford's dream become a reality.
"We believe that what ProSail offers is unique," Mr Latchford said.
On Saturday night ProSail will celebrate their ten years with a massive celebration in the company of those people who have helped make a difference and enabled Prosail to become one of the largest independent travel brands and highly demanded luxury crewed sailing charter operators in Australia.
"We look forward to the next ten years!" Mr Latchford said.
Sailor mongering
The Greenpeace organisation is on trial in the United States accused of breaking a law against 'sailor mongering' last used 114 years ago.
Sailor mongering was rife in the 19th century when unsavoury establishments sent demimondaines laden with booze to lure sailors off their ships as they made their way to harbour. The sailors then held in bondage to pay off their lodging, food and indebtedness.
The sailor mongering law, only used twice and last applied in 1890, makes it a crime to board a ship without authorisation.
Greenpeace members boarded a freighter carrying illegally harvested Amazon mahogany off Miami in 2002.
Hayman lights out
Mariners are advised that the following lighted beacons located at Hayman Island have been reported unlit: - No 1 and No 3 Starboard Lateral Mark Beacon at Hayman. Mariners should use caution whilst navigating in this area. Charts Affected: AUS 252, 254, 825
'Great opportunities to help others seldom come, but small opportunities surround us every day.'
Fair winds to Ye!
Cap'n Dan
Tuesday, May 11, 2004
Learning lessons from marine incidents
Maritime Safety Queensland has been addressing boating safety by highlighting marine incidents so you will not experience the mistakes of other boaters.
The safety reports are summaries of marine incidents that actually occurred in Queensland. The reports are displayed on the MSQ web site at www.msq.qld.gov.au/.
The cases presented are representative only, and have been selected for the learning points that may benefit mariners confronted with similar circumstances.
For easy reference, the safety reports have been classified according to the type of ship that was involved in the marine incident.
Some of the recent additions include; It's not my fault!; Crewman has thumb severed by anchor line; Interstate visitor runs his vessel aground; Lookout? and Weather sense and common sense.
The Safety reports are prepared by the Investigations Unit, Executive Services and Compliance Branch, Maritime Safety Queensland. Safety reports are intended to draw the attention of the marine community to the lessons arising out of investigations into marine accidents. Consequently, the reports do not assign fault or blame nor do they determine liability.
Top tools
The secret is out. You need only two tools: WD-40 and duct tape. If it doesn't move and it should, use WD-40. If it moves and shouldn't, use the duct tape.
Around the world in 63 days
The World Speed Sailing Record Council confirms the time of 63 days 13 hours 59 minutes and 46 seconds achieved by Olivier de Kersauson in Geronimo for the Jules Verne Trophy. From John Reed, Secretary to the WSSR Council.
Crab thieves nipped
The unsavoury practice of stealing crab pots or crabs from other crabber's pots, known as 'share farming' is being targeted by Fisheries and Police.
After a spate of incidents, the Department of Primary Industries and Fisheries and the Queensland Police have warned that people caught stealing crab pots will be prosecuted.
Hervey Bay-based Queensland Boating and Fisheries Patrol (QBFP) district officer Carl Shurey said anyone caught interfering with or stealing crab pots faced a hefty fine and possible prosecution.
"There have been a series of thefts of crab pots as well as people removing crabs from pots," he said.
"These are all offences under the Fisheries Act and anyone found breaking the regulations will be dealt with accordingly."
Officer-in-charge of the Hervey Bay Water Police Sergeant Greg Dixon said stealing crab pots is an offence under the Criminal Code.
"Anyone found stealing pots will be brought before the courts," he said.
Mr Shurey said people needed to be aware of all the current crabbing regulations including crab pot rules as well as the size and take and possession limits. "There is a take and possession limit of 10 male mud crabs and a minimum size limit of 15cm," he said.
"People are also only allowed to use four crab pots. They need to be clearly marked with the owner's name and address and, if using a float, must also have the owner's name on it."
"Rules are in place to protect and conserve mud crab stocks. By following the regulations these valuable fisheries resources will be around for current and future generations of Queenslanders," he said.
For more information about fisheries rules and regulations, call the DPI Call Centre of 13 25 23 or visit the DPI Fishweb site at www.dpi.qld.gov.au/fishweb
In a Jif
A 'jiffy' is an actual unit of time for 1/100th of a second.
Cid Island beacon unlit
Mariners are advised that the landfall beacon with an all round white light Fl.6s on the southern end of Cid Island in approximate position Latitude 20°16.50' S, Longitude 148°54.53' E has been reported unlit.
Mariners should use caution when navigating in the area. Charts affected: AUS 253, 824
Once again
"Failure is the opportunity to begin again more intelligently."
--Henry Ford
Fair winds to Ye!
Cap'n Dan
Maritime Safety Queensland has been addressing boating safety by highlighting marine incidents so you will not experience the mistakes of other boaters.
The safety reports are summaries of marine incidents that actually occurred in Queensland. The reports are displayed on the MSQ web site at www.msq.qld.gov.au/.
The cases presented are representative only, and have been selected for the learning points that may benefit mariners confronted with similar circumstances.
For easy reference, the safety reports have been classified according to the type of ship that was involved in the marine incident.
Some of the recent additions include; It's not my fault!; Crewman has thumb severed by anchor line; Interstate visitor runs his vessel aground; Lookout? and Weather sense and common sense.
The Safety reports are prepared by the Investigations Unit, Executive Services and Compliance Branch, Maritime Safety Queensland. Safety reports are intended to draw the attention of the marine community to the lessons arising out of investigations into marine accidents. Consequently, the reports do not assign fault or blame nor do they determine liability.
Top tools
The secret is out. You need only two tools: WD-40 and duct tape. If it doesn't move and it should, use WD-40. If it moves and shouldn't, use the duct tape.
Around the world in 63 days
The World Speed Sailing Record Council confirms the time of 63 days 13 hours 59 minutes and 46 seconds achieved by Olivier de Kersauson in Geronimo for the Jules Verne Trophy. From John Reed, Secretary to the WSSR Council.
Crab thieves nipped
The unsavoury practice of stealing crab pots or crabs from other crabber's pots, known as 'share farming' is being targeted by Fisheries and Police.
After a spate of incidents, the Department of Primary Industries and Fisheries and the Queensland Police have warned that people caught stealing crab pots will be prosecuted.
Hervey Bay-based Queensland Boating and Fisheries Patrol (QBFP) district officer Carl Shurey said anyone caught interfering with or stealing crab pots faced a hefty fine and possible prosecution.
"There have been a series of thefts of crab pots as well as people removing crabs from pots," he said.
"These are all offences under the Fisheries Act and anyone found breaking the regulations will be dealt with accordingly."
Officer-in-charge of the Hervey Bay Water Police Sergeant Greg Dixon said stealing crab pots is an offence under the Criminal Code.
"Anyone found stealing pots will be brought before the courts," he said.
Mr Shurey said people needed to be aware of all the current crabbing regulations including crab pot rules as well as the size and take and possession limits. "There is a take and possession limit of 10 male mud crabs and a minimum size limit of 15cm," he said.
"People are also only allowed to use four crab pots. They need to be clearly marked with the owner's name and address and, if using a float, must also have the owner's name on it."
"Rules are in place to protect and conserve mud crab stocks. By following the regulations these valuable fisheries resources will be around for current and future generations of Queenslanders," he said.
For more information about fisheries rules and regulations, call the DPI Call Centre of 13 25 23 or visit the DPI Fishweb site at www.dpi.qld.gov.au/fishweb
In a Jif
A 'jiffy' is an actual unit of time for 1/100th of a second.
Cid Island beacon unlit
Mariners are advised that the landfall beacon with an all round white light Fl.6s on the southern end of Cid Island in approximate position Latitude 20°16.50' S, Longitude 148°54.53' E has been reported unlit.
Mariners should use caution when navigating in the area. Charts affected: AUS 253, 824
Once again
"Failure is the opportunity to begin again more intelligently."
--Henry Ford
Fair winds to Ye!
Cap'n Dan
Tuesday, May 04, 2004
Ahoy! Pirates of the Whitsundays comp for kids
Pirates of the Whitsundays are renowned as colourful and exciting people. It takes talent to be a Pirate too! Yer can't be a landlubber all yer life if yer lives 'ere, so the Oceanic Whitsunday Boat and Leisure Show committee is running a special competition for the Primary Pirates in our schools.
Pirates of the Whitsundays is the competition theme, with categories for three age groups. Colouring Competition for Preps to Grade 2, Design a Treasure Map for Grades 3 to 5 and A Short Story for Grades 6 and 7.
Plot a Treasure Map around the Whitsunday Islands is open to Grades 3 to 5 and involves an outline of Islands ending at Abel Point after locating all the Treasure.
The Top 20 from each Category will go on display at the Oceanic Whitsunday Boat and Leisure Show, June 12 and 13. Airlie BeachWorx has sponsored the prizes, with the main prize for the short story being a $200 gift voucher.
Competition details are on Entry Forms available from local schools in the coming weeks, says Rotary organiser Tony Fossey.
Rules? Yaarrgh! All of Yer entries will get judged, me buckaroos. Judges decision is final; whinge an yer can walk the plank. Them what make it arty-like will get their stuff shown at the Oceanic Whitsunday Boat and Leisure show on the weekend of 12th and 13th June 2004.
The winning entries from each category will be notified by cannonball and summoned to the show to collect their bootie. Mum and Dad can help (but not too much). Limit one entry per Primary Pirate. All treasures to be lobbed to Yer Art or English Master for collection.
So, come on Primary Pirate Kids and join in the fun. You can win some great Prizes and be part of the Oceanic Whitsunday Boat and Leisure Show 2004.
COTS control
Crown of Thorns Starfish research vessel Foundation One docked in Airlie Beach on Sunday after a successful ten days at Bait Reef.
Had a yarn to the crew who had a good voyage and said a gauge of the ongoing work is shown by the 2,600 COTS killed in those ten days.
Beer compass
The invisible device that ensures your safe arrival home after a booze cruise, even though you're too full to remember where you live, how you got there, or where you've come from.
Not the definition!
EPIRB: Empty Petrol I Require Boat!
Fish are jumping
"Last week the Coral Trout were jumping into the boat and now the Spanish mackerel are following them. We enjoyed our first week of decent weather this year with some 10-knot sea breezes coupled with small tides and very blue waters.
"Most of the mackerel were over the 10-kilo mark and a couple made it to 20-kilo's. This is a very good sign for the beginning of our Mackerel season."
Cheers Capt Ken on Marlin Blue
Visitor's radio
A report from the Wireless Institute of Australia (WIA) says an issue discussed recently with Australian Communications Authority has been the operation of amateur radio stations on board foreign yachts whilst alongside or at anchor in Australian ports.
The WIA are waiting for a definitive statement from ACA, however, in the interim, the Northern Regional Manager sets out the ACA position that is if boat clears customs - operator must have VK (Australian) callsign.
There has also been some concern expressed from WIA at the lack of ACA follow up to complaints of illegal operation, etc. The WIA Liaison Committee are seeking advice from ACA on how to best address this problem.
Boat Hot spots
The Boating Industry Association of Queensland has identified the state's top 10 boating communities, based on registrations in local authority areas.
The hot spots, as of December 30, are: Brisbane: 22,520 -12,572 (Southside) and 9958 (north side); Gold Coast: 21,950; Redlands: 8725; Caboolture: 7,560; Cairns: 7,388; Mackay: 7240; Maroochy: 5,904: Logan: 5,418: Townsville: 5,413; Caloundra: 4912.
BIAQ General Manager, Barry Hibberd, said total registrations were now more than 180,000 and growing at approximately five per cent annually.
Boat ownership in Queensland is growing at twice the rate of population growth in the state.
Mr Hibberd said 90 per cent of all registered boats are six metres or less in length.
Boats 3-4 metres represented 33 per cent of new registrations, followed by boats 4-4.5 metres (27 per cent) and boats 5-6 metres (13 per cent).
Consider this
"Not what we have, but what we enjoy, constitutes our abundance."
--John Petit-Senn
Fair winds to Ye!
Cap'n Dan
Pirates of the Whitsundays are renowned as colourful and exciting people. It takes talent to be a Pirate too! Yer can't be a landlubber all yer life if yer lives 'ere, so the Oceanic Whitsunday Boat and Leisure Show committee is running a special competition for the Primary Pirates in our schools.
Pirates of the Whitsundays is the competition theme, with categories for three age groups. Colouring Competition for Preps to Grade 2, Design a Treasure Map for Grades 3 to 5 and A Short Story for Grades 6 and 7.
Plot a Treasure Map around the Whitsunday Islands is open to Grades 3 to 5 and involves an outline of Islands ending at Abel Point after locating all the Treasure.
The Top 20 from each Category will go on display at the Oceanic Whitsunday Boat and Leisure Show, June 12 and 13. Airlie BeachWorx has sponsored the prizes, with the main prize for the short story being a $200 gift voucher.
Competition details are on Entry Forms available from local schools in the coming weeks, says Rotary organiser Tony Fossey.
Rules? Yaarrgh! All of Yer entries will get judged, me buckaroos. Judges decision is final; whinge an yer can walk the plank. Them what make it arty-like will get their stuff shown at the Oceanic Whitsunday Boat and Leisure show on the weekend of 12th and 13th June 2004.
The winning entries from each category will be notified by cannonball and summoned to the show to collect their bootie. Mum and Dad can help (but not too much). Limit one entry per Primary Pirate. All treasures to be lobbed to Yer Art or English Master for collection.
So, come on Primary Pirate Kids and join in the fun. You can win some great Prizes and be part of the Oceanic Whitsunday Boat and Leisure Show 2004.
COTS control
Crown of Thorns Starfish research vessel Foundation One docked in Airlie Beach on Sunday after a successful ten days at Bait Reef.
Had a yarn to the crew who had a good voyage and said a gauge of the ongoing work is shown by the 2,600 COTS killed in those ten days.
Beer compass
The invisible device that ensures your safe arrival home after a booze cruise, even though you're too full to remember where you live, how you got there, or where you've come from.
Not the definition!
EPIRB: Empty Petrol I Require Boat!
Fish are jumping
"Last week the Coral Trout were jumping into the boat and now the Spanish mackerel are following them. We enjoyed our first week of decent weather this year with some 10-knot sea breezes coupled with small tides and very blue waters.
"Most of the mackerel were over the 10-kilo mark and a couple made it to 20-kilo's. This is a very good sign for the beginning of our Mackerel season."
Cheers Capt Ken on Marlin Blue
Visitor's radio
A report from the Wireless Institute of Australia (WIA) says an issue discussed recently with Australian Communications Authority has been the operation of amateur radio stations on board foreign yachts whilst alongside or at anchor in Australian ports.
The WIA are waiting for a definitive statement from ACA, however, in the interim, the Northern Regional Manager sets out the ACA position that is if boat clears customs - operator must have VK (Australian) callsign.
There has also been some concern expressed from WIA at the lack of ACA follow up to complaints of illegal operation, etc. The WIA Liaison Committee are seeking advice from ACA on how to best address this problem.
Boat Hot spots
The Boating Industry Association of Queensland has identified the state's top 10 boating communities, based on registrations in local authority areas.
The hot spots, as of December 30, are: Brisbane: 22,520 -12,572 (Southside) and 9958 (north side); Gold Coast: 21,950; Redlands: 8725; Caboolture: 7,560; Cairns: 7,388; Mackay: 7240; Maroochy: 5,904: Logan: 5,418: Townsville: 5,413; Caloundra: 4912.
BIAQ General Manager, Barry Hibberd, said total registrations were now more than 180,000 and growing at approximately five per cent annually.
Boat ownership in Queensland is growing at twice the rate of population growth in the state.
Mr Hibberd said 90 per cent of all registered boats are six metres or less in length.
Boats 3-4 metres represented 33 per cent of new registrations, followed by boats 4-4.5 metres (27 per cent) and boats 5-6 metres (13 per cent).
Consider this
"Not what we have, but what we enjoy, constitutes our abundance."
--John Petit-Senn
Fair winds to Ye!
Cap'n Dan
Wednesday, April 28, 2004
Stiff winds greet Lady Skipper's and crews
The three-race Lady Skipper Series was held over the ANZAC weekend in blustery conditions. The popular annual event has drawn a good fleet for many years now with the girls enjoying their own camaraderie on the water and at the presentations.
Janner II skippered by Kathryn Borer, won the perpetual trophy on handicap. She was a bit unlucky in the first race when her main sail tore along the lower panel seam and had to take in a single reef to complete the race. She was lucky for the 20+ knot winds over the next two days, so the single tuck, with both Yankee and staysail helped Kathryn maintain good boat speed.
Heather Sievers with Tina, Nellie, Judy and Diane in Idyll Time, won the all ladies crew trophy. They jury-rigged the spinnaker halyard in Molle Passage on the second race when their jib halyard broke.
No one was quite sure what happened to Vicky Applegate in Triple Vision on the start of the last race but it became evident that they were 'sail testing" around Cid Island and fell into a hole just managing to get to the start line very late.
Deception helmed by Caroline Murray and Triple Vision had their own race at the front while the other four yachts traded positions around Pioneer Pt and Funnel Bay on the race home -- depending on whom the wind gusts favoured.
Shearwater steered by Roslyn Booth and skipper Linda Howells in Sky Trim made up the six-boat fleet.
Make no bones
Pirates of the Whitsundays have been playing up recently with a raid by Dog on the skull and crossbones of the Cap'n. Dog was salty wet an still laughin when he surfaced wit der Cap'n's flag in his clutches. The Cap'n owes 'im a rum.
Said around the islands, Yer don't have ter say yer a pirate, Ye just Aaarrgh one!
What'a yer reckon?
"If we had to overcome every possible objection before we got started, then nothing--absolutely nothing--would ever get accomplished."
Fair winds to Ye!
Cap'n Dan
The three-race Lady Skipper Series was held over the ANZAC weekend in blustery conditions. The popular annual event has drawn a good fleet for many years now with the girls enjoying their own camaraderie on the water and at the presentations.
Janner II skippered by Kathryn Borer, won the perpetual trophy on handicap. She was a bit unlucky in the first race when her main sail tore along the lower panel seam and had to take in a single reef to complete the race. She was lucky for the 20+ knot winds over the next two days, so the single tuck, with both Yankee and staysail helped Kathryn maintain good boat speed.
Heather Sievers with Tina, Nellie, Judy and Diane in Idyll Time, won the all ladies crew trophy. They jury-rigged the spinnaker halyard in Molle Passage on the second race when their jib halyard broke.
No one was quite sure what happened to Vicky Applegate in Triple Vision on the start of the last race but it became evident that they were 'sail testing" around Cid Island and fell into a hole just managing to get to the start line very late.
Deception helmed by Caroline Murray and Triple Vision had their own race at the front while the other four yachts traded positions around Pioneer Pt and Funnel Bay on the race home -- depending on whom the wind gusts favoured.
Shearwater steered by Roslyn Booth and skipper Linda Howells in Sky Trim made up the six-boat fleet.
Make no bones
Pirates of the Whitsundays have been playing up recently with a raid by Dog on the skull and crossbones of the Cap'n. Dog was salty wet an still laughin when he surfaced wit der Cap'n's flag in his clutches. The Cap'n owes 'im a rum.
Said around the islands, Yer don't have ter say yer a pirate, Ye just Aaarrgh one!
What'a yer reckon?
"If we had to overcome every possible objection before we got started, then nothing--absolutely nothing--would ever get accomplished."
Fair winds to Ye!
Cap'n Dan
Monday, April 26, 2004
Protecting our Whitsunday turtles and dugongs
It is an easy call to tell our tourist guests they will see turtles in some of the bays around the Whitsunday Islands. Indeed, Tongue Bay on Whitsunday Island always puts on a good display of turtles for guests.
Turtles are often sighted in many inshore areas of the Whitsunday region of the Great Barrier Reef but those shy Dugongs are much harder to spot.
Dugongs and turtles are threatened species and are protected in all waters of the Great Barrier Reef.
The Great Barrier Reef is home to six of the world's seven species of marine turtles.
It is believed there are 90,000 dugongs in Australian waters with approximately 14,000 of these on the Great Barrier Reef, however dugong numbers are only 3% of what they were in the 1960s.
All people who use the Reef need to be aware of and follow best environmental and safety practices particularly when in an area that contains dugong or turtles.
We need to be aware that litter on the Reef, particularly plastics and fishing line, can harm dugongs and turtles. Turtles often mistake plastics for food and may choke on plastic bags and other rubbish.
There are a few simple practices you should follow when boating on the Great Barrier Reef to avoid harming or killing dugong or turtles. These are:
· Be alert and watch for dugongs and turtles at all times
· Make sure you give dugongs and turtles plenty of space in the water
· Reduce your vessel speed to minimise the risk of collision in areas where dugong or turtles have been sighted
· Be quiet when you are around a dugong or turtle in the water
· Take all rubbish home with you. Do not throw used fishing line or any other litter in the sea or allow it to be washed into the sea/stormwater drains.
· Do not get in the water if you see a dugong or turtle. If you are already in the water do not disturb, chase or block the path of a dugong or turtle and if possible, return to your vessel
· If there is a sudden change in dugong or turtle behaviour, move away immediately
· Report sick, injured, stranded or dead dugongs and turtles to the Marine Animal Hotline on 1300 360 898.
Top marks for region's fishers
Queensland Boating and Fisheries Patrol (QBFP) field officers were kept busy during the Easter break but were impressed by the excellent level of compliance with fishing and boating regulations.
Department of Primary Industries and Fisheries patrols operating out of Mackay, Yeppoon and Gladstone all reported that the windy weather had restricted Central Queensland's recreational fishers and boats to the more sheltered estuarine waters.
Acting district officer Brenda Stevenson said that during the four days, the officers had spoken to dozens of fishers and inspected 42 recreational vessels.
"Our officers issued just two fisheries infringement notices and five infringement notices for boating offences all of which attracted on-the-spot fines," Ms Stevenson said.
Two QBFP teams at Mackay worked from Proserpine through to Cape Palmerston and issued just three infringement notices to boaties exceeding the 6-knot speed limit in gazetted areas. There were only three fisheries infringements for undersize mud crabs, undersize sweet lip and unmarked crab pots.
Gladstone field officers who carried out inspections from Port Alma to the Town of 1770 as well as patrolling Gladstone Harbour Festival aquatic activities, issued 15 boating regulation and three fisheries infringement notices.
Ms Stevenson said the bulk of the Central region's boating regulation offences were related to failure to display navigation lights, lack of mandatory safety equipment including insufficient lifejackets for the passengers on board and for the use of unregistered vessels.
"Our officers also issued a number of cautions for fisheries offences including failure to correctly mark crab pots.
"Most on-the-spot fisheries fines which ranged from $150 up to $375 related to undersize fish and failure to mark crab pots. Three unmarked pots were seized in the Capricorn region," Ms Stevenson said.
Marine Notice: Laguna Quays
Dredging operations are being carried out in the entrance to Laguna Quays (20 36'.0 S 148 41'.4 E).
Works will be carried out by a cutter suction dredge daily from 0600 to 1800 hours. The dredge will be secured to three anchors at a radius of 100 metres from the dredge. A dumb barge will be in attendance during the works.
Mariners should contact Laguna Quays Port Control on VHF Ch16 prior to transiting the entrance. Mariners are advised to navigate with caution in the area.
Think about it
'Why not go out on a limb? Isn't that where the fruit is?'
Fair winds to Ye!
Cap'n Dan
It is an easy call to tell our tourist guests they will see turtles in some of the bays around the Whitsunday Islands. Indeed, Tongue Bay on Whitsunday Island always puts on a good display of turtles for guests.
Turtles are often sighted in many inshore areas of the Whitsunday region of the Great Barrier Reef but those shy Dugongs are much harder to spot.
Dugongs and turtles are threatened species and are protected in all waters of the Great Barrier Reef.
The Great Barrier Reef is home to six of the world's seven species of marine turtles.
It is believed there are 90,000 dugongs in Australian waters with approximately 14,000 of these on the Great Barrier Reef, however dugong numbers are only 3% of what they were in the 1960s.
All people who use the Reef need to be aware of and follow best environmental and safety practices particularly when in an area that contains dugong or turtles.
We need to be aware that litter on the Reef, particularly plastics and fishing line, can harm dugongs and turtles. Turtles often mistake plastics for food and may choke on plastic bags and other rubbish.
There are a few simple practices you should follow when boating on the Great Barrier Reef to avoid harming or killing dugong or turtles. These are:
· Be alert and watch for dugongs and turtles at all times
· Make sure you give dugongs and turtles plenty of space in the water
· Reduce your vessel speed to minimise the risk of collision in areas where dugong or turtles have been sighted
· Be quiet when you are around a dugong or turtle in the water
· Take all rubbish home with you. Do not throw used fishing line or any other litter in the sea or allow it to be washed into the sea/stormwater drains.
· Do not get in the water if you see a dugong or turtle. If you are already in the water do not disturb, chase or block the path of a dugong or turtle and if possible, return to your vessel
· If there is a sudden change in dugong or turtle behaviour, move away immediately
· Report sick, injured, stranded or dead dugongs and turtles to the Marine Animal Hotline on 1300 360 898.
Top marks for region's fishers
Queensland Boating and Fisheries Patrol (QBFP) field officers were kept busy during the Easter break but were impressed by the excellent level of compliance with fishing and boating regulations.
Department of Primary Industries and Fisheries patrols operating out of Mackay, Yeppoon and Gladstone all reported that the windy weather had restricted Central Queensland's recreational fishers and boats to the more sheltered estuarine waters.
Acting district officer Brenda Stevenson said that during the four days, the officers had spoken to dozens of fishers and inspected 42 recreational vessels.
"Our officers issued just two fisheries infringement notices and five infringement notices for boating offences all of which attracted on-the-spot fines," Ms Stevenson said.
Two QBFP teams at Mackay worked from Proserpine through to Cape Palmerston and issued just three infringement notices to boaties exceeding the 6-knot speed limit in gazetted areas. There were only three fisheries infringements for undersize mud crabs, undersize sweet lip and unmarked crab pots.
Gladstone field officers who carried out inspections from Port Alma to the Town of 1770 as well as patrolling Gladstone Harbour Festival aquatic activities, issued 15 boating regulation and three fisheries infringement notices.
Ms Stevenson said the bulk of the Central region's boating regulation offences were related to failure to display navigation lights, lack of mandatory safety equipment including insufficient lifejackets for the passengers on board and for the use of unregistered vessels.
"Our officers also issued a number of cautions for fisheries offences including failure to correctly mark crab pots.
"Most on-the-spot fisheries fines which ranged from $150 up to $375 related to undersize fish and failure to mark crab pots. Three unmarked pots were seized in the Capricorn region," Ms Stevenson said.
Marine Notice: Laguna Quays
Dredging operations are being carried out in the entrance to Laguna Quays (20 36'.0 S 148 41'.4 E).
Works will be carried out by a cutter suction dredge daily from 0600 to 1800 hours. The dredge will be secured to three anchors at a radius of 100 metres from the dredge. A dumb barge will be in attendance during the works.
Mariners should contact Laguna Quays Port Control on VHF Ch16 prior to transiting the entrance. Mariners are advised to navigate with caution in the area.
Think about it
'Why not go out on a limb? Isn't that where the fruit is?'
Fair winds to Ye!
Cap'n Dan
Wednesday, April 14, 2004
Avast, me hearties, our day is coming
Every now and then, some visionary comes along with a concept so original and revolutionary that your immediate reaction is: "Why didn't I think of that?"
What about 'Talk Like a Pirate Day'. As the name suggests, everybody would talk like a pirate for the day. Is that a great idea, or what? There are so many practical benefits I can't even begin to list them all.
Recently I watched the movie "Pirates of the Caribbean" and wished to be aboard for the fun. Rum and hard tack with weevils and walking the plank. Aargh!
So lets throw our support behind Talk Like a Pirate Day, to be observed in September.
Talking like a pirate will infuse your everyday conversations with romance and danger. Join the crew on September 18. Don't answer the phone with "hello", try "Ahoy, me hearty!"
I truly think this idea could bring us, as a nation, closer together. But not TOO much closer. Some of us will have swords.
Of course, your Waterfront writer has always answered the phone with "Ahoy!" and Mrs Cap'n Dan claims there are many interpretations of 'aaargh'.
Pommy piranha
A piranha, native to South America was found in the River Thames at London. Boat crew said a seagull dropped the 10-cm piranha onto the boat's deck.
"We imagine it was probably released by someone and then floated to the surface, where it was picked up by one of the very hungry seagulls," London Aquarium curator Paul Hale said.
A passing seagull dropped the red-bellied piranha onto the deck of a boat built to oxygenate the river. The Thames was declared "dead" in the 1960s but is now home to over a hundred types of fish.
"It was very fresh and had obviously only just died. You could see the marks made by the seagull's beak on its back," fisheries officer Tom Cousins said.
Experts were quick to reassure Londoners they need not fear marauding shoals of meat-eating fish. The reputation of the piranha is worse than its bite and despite global warming; the Thames remains too cold to support such warm-water fish.
Native fish compared
Department of Primary Industries and Fisheries are educating people of all ages about native fish and their use in ornamental ponds and aquariums with new information brochures.
Most fish used in aquariums and ornamental ponds are exotic and have the potential to cause serious environmental damage if released into local creeks or streams.
The new information brochures include the Native Fish Activity Book for primary school children; the Native Fish for Aquariums brochure aimed at aquarists and pet shops; and the first brochure in a series of regional guides to selecting native fish for ornamental ponds.
Queensland Fisheries Service fisheries biologist Aimee Burton said many native fish have spectacular fins, beautiful colours and interesting behaviours and are comparable to many exotic fish.
"Many people may not consider using native fish. These new information brochures will help people select the right type of native fish for their aquarium or ornamental pond," she said.
"People who are interested in the new educational material can call the DPI.
"Teachers and parents are encouraged to call for copies of the Native Fish Activity Book, which has activities for primary school children about looking after waterways and the fish that inhabit them."
Ham radio saved the day
An amateur 'Ham' radio operator was talking to a friend and heard a weak signal from a radio operator aboard a Ukrainian registered schooner sailing from Wellington NZ to Sydney. The ship had trouble as sails had blown out and they were making slow progress of just on four knots.
At that speed, they had calculated that they would run out of fuel before reaching port, the shore-side Ham operator ascertained there were 6 people on board, but no EPIRB! (Emergency Position Indication Radio Beacon) All information was relayed to Sea Safety Canberra.
With the schooner's satellite communication system also out of action, the Ham aboard operating with a low power of 5 watts was the only contact.
Sea Safety Canberra was unable to make contact as their Transmitter was in Charleville, SW Queensland.
At a later sked, things were a lot better, radio and safety wise, the schooner expected in Sydney ahead of previously estimated time.
Sydney Water Police stayed in contact with the Ham, keeping abreast of the situation, as they had no HF facilities!
As the radio operator said...
" I hadn't realised you can now call MAYDAY on the various DISTRESS frequencies but nobody is listening any more. Since the advent of GMDSS, a computer scans the frequencies looking for encoded tones.
"If it finds one it attracts human intervention."
Foiled again
Lawyers are appealing a court case in which a US basketball player was caught trying to sneak marijuana wrapped in Alfoil through airport metal detectors. Duh!
Ahoy!
This old traditional greeting for hailing other vessels was originally a Viking battle cry.
Fair winds to Ye!
Cap'n Dan
Every now and then, some visionary comes along with a concept so original and revolutionary that your immediate reaction is: "Why didn't I think of that?"
What about 'Talk Like a Pirate Day'. As the name suggests, everybody would talk like a pirate for the day. Is that a great idea, or what? There are so many practical benefits I can't even begin to list them all.
Recently I watched the movie "Pirates of the Caribbean" and wished to be aboard for the fun. Rum and hard tack with weevils and walking the plank. Aargh!
So lets throw our support behind Talk Like a Pirate Day, to be observed in September.
Talking like a pirate will infuse your everyday conversations with romance and danger. Join the crew on September 18. Don't answer the phone with "hello", try "Ahoy, me hearty!"
I truly think this idea could bring us, as a nation, closer together. But not TOO much closer. Some of us will have swords.
Of course, your Waterfront writer has always answered the phone with "Ahoy!" and Mrs Cap'n Dan claims there are many interpretations of 'aaargh'.
Pommy piranha
A piranha, native to South America was found in the River Thames at London. Boat crew said a seagull dropped the 10-cm piranha onto the boat's deck.
"We imagine it was probably released by someone and then floated to the surface, where it was picked up by one of the very hungry seagulls," London Aquarium curator Paul Hale said.
A passing seagull dropped the red-bellied piranha onto the deck of a boat built to oxygenate the river. The Thames was declared "dead" in the 1960s but is now home to over a hundred types of fish.
"It was very fresh and had obviously only just died. You could see the marks made by the seagull's beak on its back," fisheries officer Tom Cousins said.
Experts were quick to reassure Londoners they need not fear marauding shoals of meat-eating fish. The reputation of the piranha is worse than its bite and despite global warming; the Thames remains too cold to support such warm-water fish.
Native fish compared
Department of Primary Industries and Fisheries are educating people of all ages about native fish and their use in ornamental ponds and aquariums with new information brochures.
Most fish used in aquariums and ornamental ponds are exotic and have the potential to cause serious environmental damage if released into local creeks or streams.
The new information brochures include the Native Fish Activity Book for primary school children; the Native Fish for Aquariums brochure aimed at aquarists and pet shops; and the first brochure in a series of regional guides to selecting native fish for ornamental ponds.
Queensland Fisheries Service fisheries biologist Aimee Burton said many native fish have spectacular fins, beautiful colours and interesting behaviours and are comparable to many exotic fish.
"Many people may not consider using native fish. These new information brochures will help people select the right type of native fish for their aquarium or ornamental pond," she said.
"People who are interested in the new educational material can call the DPI.
"Teachers and parents are encouraged to call for copies of the Native Fish Activity Book, which has activities for primary school children about looking after waterways and the fish that inhabit them."
Ham radio saved the day
An amateur 'Ham' radio operator was talking to a friend and heard a weak signal from a radio operator aboard a Ukrainian registered schooner sailing from Wellington NZ to Sydney. The ship had trouble as sails had blown out and they were making slow progress of just on four knots.
At that speed, they had calculated that they would run out of fuel before reaching port, the shore-side Ham operator ascertained there were 6 people on board, but no EPIRB! (Emergency Position Indication Radio Beacon) All information was relayed to Sea Safety Canberra.
With the schooner's satellite communication system also out of action, the Ham aboard operating with a low power of 5 watts was the only contact.
Sea Safety Canberra was unable to make contact as their Transmitter was in Charleville, SW Queensland.
At a later sked, things were a lot better, radio and safety wise, the schooner expected in Sydney ahead of previously estimated time.
Sydney Water Police stayed in contact with the Ham, keeping abreast of the situation, as they had no HF facilities!
As the radio operator said...
" I hadn't realised you can now call MAYDAY on the various DISTRESS frequencies but nobody is listening any more. Since the advent of GMDSS, a computer scans the frequencies looking for encoded tones.
"If it finds one it attracts human intervention."
Foiled again
Lawyers are appealing a court case in which a US basketball player was caught trying to sneak marijuana wrapped in Alfoil through airport metal detectors. Duh!
Ahoy!
This old traditional greeting for hailing other vessels was originally a Viking battle cry.
Fair winds to Ye!
Cap'n Dan
Wednesday, April 07, 2004
Boat safety with difference launched in Whitsunday
'Look closely before you agree to get onboard'
Maritime Safety Queensland and local charter boat operators launched an education campaign this week in Airlie Beach concerning backpackers targeted by unlicensed charter boat operators. Unlicensed, illegal operators have generated a series of complaints about sexual harassment and unsafe and unsavoury boating practises for some time.
"The education campaign has been well received" Maritime Safety Queensland (MSQ) Education Officer Caitlin Bryant told On the Waterfront this week.
"The response has been positive, particularly with travel agents and local pubs. The feedback is interesting as everyone has their own story to tell about incidents" Miss Bryant said.
"There have been a handful of convictions, but it has been hard to get offenders into court due often to the transient nature of the offences." She added.
Legitimate operators are concerned that these 'rogue' operators tarnish the image of charter boat operators and unfairly compete for potential customers.
The Whitsunday Charter Boat Industry Association will assist Maritime Safety Queensland in disseminating the information and promoting the key message.
The issue has been prevalent for a number of years. In 1998, the Education Unit successfully launched a campaign called "At Sea ...No One Can Hear You Scream". The campaign was developed to educate backpackers, in particular young women, of the existence of illegal charters operating in the Cairns and Whitsunday areas and why they should avoid these 'cheap charters'.
Research undertaken to assess the effectiveness of the first campaign has indicated that while the incidence of sexual harassment has dramatically reduced, there are still illegal charters operating in the region.
'Look Closely Before You Get Onboard". If you are unsure, check with the local Maritime Safety Queensland office or travel agents before you agree to get onboard.
The Whitsundays Charter Boat Association has developed the 'Tick of Approval'. Vessels that display a Tick Sticker are Certified Members of the WCBIA. MSQ and the WCBIA both recommend that travellers look for the tick of approval before agreeing to get onboard.
Mid-week sailing
"The last race was a 'smashing time' with Spud Gun loosing it's carbon fibre mast half way up the first beat, and 007 having to withdraw because of a large T-bone to it's port side during a port - starboard altercation with Out of Africa" say Bob and Kathryn on the sailing club start boat.
Here are the final Scores for the Queensland Yacht Charters series.
Div 1. Multihulls: 1/ ADIOS, STEVE HALTER 9pts: 2/ SKATE, ROBERT MOHLE 12pts: 3/ SPUD GUN, PETER MILLAR 13pts.
Div 2. 1/ SANDPIPER, C NICOLL 6pts; 2/ LORNA ROSE TOO, P MITCHILSON 19pts; 3/ QLD MARINE SERVICE, J GALLOWAY 20pts.
Div 3. 1/ TREASURE, H MENELAUS 11pts; 2/ BLUE DIAMOND, C HILLIER 12pts; 3/ MOOCHA, R NELSON 19pts.
Hayman & Langford lights restored
Mariners are advised that the following lighted beacons located at Hayman Island have been restored to normal:
No 3 Hayman Reef in approximate position Latitude 20°04.3248'S Longitude 148°53.7631'E. Starboard Lateral Mark beacon Fl.G.2.5s
No 4 Cockatoo Point in approximate position Latitude 20°04.7109'S Longitude 148°54.0523'E. Port Lateral Mark beacon Fl.R.2.5s
Langford Reef - Mariners are advised that the lighted South Cardinal Mark beacon Q (6) + LF1. 15s in approximate position Latitude 20°05.7865'S Longitude 148°52.5938'E on Langford Reef has been restored to normal.
Charts affected: AUS 252, 254, 825.
President Bush on national security . . .
"You can't see what you think is a threat and hope it goes away. You used to could when the oceans protected us . . ."
Fair winds to Ye!
Cap'n Dan
'Look closely before you agree to get onboard'
Maritime Safety Queensland and local charter boat operators launched an education campaign this week in Airlie Beach concerning backpackers targeted by unlicensed charter boat operators. Unlicensed, illegal operators have generated a series of complaints about sexual harassment and unsafe and unsavoury boating practises for some time.
"The education campaign has been well received" Maritime Safety Queensland (MSQ) Education Officer Caitlin Bryant told On the Waterfront this week.
"The response has been positive, particularly with travel agents and local pubs. The feedback is interesting as everyone has their own story to tell about incidents" Miss Bryant said.
"There have been a handful of convictions, but it has been hard to get offenders into court due often to the transient nature of the offences." She added.
Legitimate operators are concerned that these 'rogue' operators tarnish the image of charter boat operators and unfairly compete for potential customers.
The Whitsunday Charter Boat Industry Association will assist Maritime Safety Queensland in disseminating the information and promoting the key message.
The issue has been prevalent for a number of years. In 1998, the Education Unit successfully launched a campaign called "At Sea ...No One Can Hear You Scream". The campaign was developed to educate backpackers, in particular young women, of the existence of illegal charters operating in the Cairns and Whitsunday areas and why they should avoid these 'cheap charters'.
Research undertaken to assess the effectiveness of the first campaign has indicated that while the incidence of sexual harassment has dramatically reduced, there are still illegal charters operating in the region.
'Look Closely Before You Get Onboard". If you are unsure, check with the local Maritime Safety Queensland office or travel agents before you agree to get onboard.
The Whitsundays Charter Boat Association has developed the 'Tick of Approval'. Vessels that display a Tick Sticker are Certified Members of the WCBIA. MSQ and the WCBIA both recommend that travellers look for the tick of approval before agreeing to get onboard.
Mid-week sailing
"The last race was a 'smashing time' with Spud Gun loosing it's carbon fibre mast half way up the first beat, and 007 having to withdraw because of a large T-bone to it's port side during a port - starboard altercation with Out of Africa" say Bob and Kathryn on the sailing club start boat.
Here are the final Scores for the Queensland Yacht Charters series.
Div 1. Multihulls: 1/ ADIOS, STEVE HALTER 9pts: 2/ SKATE, ROBERT MOHLE 12pts: 3/ SPUD GUN, PETER MILLAR 13pts.
Div 2. 1/ SANDPIPER, C NICOLL 6pts; 2/ LORNA ROSE TOO, P MITCHILSON 19pts; 3/ QLD MARINE SERVICE, J GALLOWAY 20pts.
Div 3. 1/ TREASURE, H MENELAUS 11pts; 2/ BLUE DIAMOND, C HILLIER 12pts; 3/ MOOCHA, R NELSON 19pts.
Hayman & Langford lights restored
Mariners are advised that the following lighted beacons located at Hayman Island have been restored to normal:
No 3 Hayman Reef in approximate position Latitude 20°04.3248'S Longitude 148°53.7631'E. Starboard Lateral Mark beacon Fl.G.2.5s
No 4 Cockatoo Point in approximate position Latitude 20°04.7109'S Longitude 148°54.0523'E. Port Lateral Mark beacon Fl.R.2.5s
Langford Reef - Mariners are advised that the lighted South Cardinal Mark beacon Q (6) + LF1. 15s in approximate position Latitude 20°05.7865'S Longitude 148°52.5938'E on Langford Reef has been restored to normal.
Charts affected: AUS 252, 254, 825.
President Bush on national security . . .
"You can't see what you think is a threat and hope it goes away. You used to could when the oceans protected us . . ."
Fair winds to Ye!
Cap'n Dan
Saturday, April 03, 2004
Olympic flame lit as games loom on horizon
With the lighting of the Olympic flame in ancient Olympia last week the Athens games are looming large on the horizon.
' As in the daytime there is no star in the sky warmer and brighter than the sun, likewise there is no competition greater than the Olympic Games' Pindar, Greek poet, 5th century BC'
Stalin's 'Red Army' invades Europe
Hordes of giant Pacific crabs, whose ancestors were brought to Europe by Joseph Stalin in the 1930s, are marching south along Norway's coast, devouring everything in their path.
The monster crabs, which can weigh up to 25lbs and have a claw-span of more than three feet, are proving so resilient that scientists fear they could end up as far south as Gibraltar.
Energised by a mysterious population explosion a decade ago, whole armies of the crustaceans - known as the Kamchatka or Red King Crabs - have already advanced about 400 miles along the roof of Europe, overwhelming the ports of northern Norway.
They now number more than 10 million and have reached the Lofoten Islands off north-west Scandinavia, leaving in their wake what one expert described as "an underwater desert".
In a graphic display of the extent of the crab's submarine domination, some photographs of the ocean floor in Kirkenes in northern Norway show a writhing mass of the ugly, spiny animals.
Northern clams and other shellfish, once so numerous that divers could scoop up handfuls, have almost been eliminated.
Lars Petter Oie, a Norwegian diver who lives nearby, has seen the fjord outside his front door taken over by the crabs.
Plunging through a hole in the ice, another diver surfaced within two minutes with a huge specimen. A snap of its claw is enough to remove a man's finger.
Mr Oie said: "I have been to conferences on the crab and one thing the experts agree on is that they have rarely come across a species that is so adaptable.
"It can survive on almost anything: kelp, dead fish, seaweed and fish eggs. It even eats crushed shells to get the calcium it needs for its shell."
The relentless advance of the crabs has led to calls from some Norwegian marine experts for a government-subsidised "blitz" to try to halt their relentless march south.
At present, some Norwegian fishermen have been granted seasonal licences to catch the Kamchatka crab but stiff regulations on the size of the boat used and other criteria mean they are few in number.
Aasmund Bjordal, of the Department of Marine Resources in the western Norwegian town of Bergen, said: "We're between two policies. One is to get rid of the crabs. The other is to manage it as a fishing resource.
"In the meantime, it's already become an important source of income for some fishermen in the north. The problem is that it may be destroying the fishing stock."
Transporting the monster crabs to the Barents Sea was originally part of a Stalinist era scheme to provide food for populations in the north-western Soviet Union.
Norwegian officials dismiss suggestions that the crabs might sometime be slicing off the toes of swimmers as far south as Portugal after conquering beaches in Sweden and Spain, with side trips to Britain, Ireland and the Baltic Sea.
Yuri Orlov, a Russian who helped transport crabs by plane and train from the Pacific, reckons the species could reach the mouth of the Mediterranean. "It will keep going as far as Gibraltar," he told the Norwegian daily Aftenposten.
Orlov led a project to bring 2,000 female crabs, 1,000 males and 10,000 young from the Pacific in the 1960s. No one knows what caused the population to rocket in the 1990s.
The crab plan was launched under Soviet dictator Josef Stalin in the 1930s. Most died on early trips until Orlov hit on a survival of the fittest test - meaning the new crab stock may be even tougher than their Pacific cousins.
"I put the crabs on their backs and if they managed to turn over quickly, they were strong enough to make the trip," he said.
Fisherman Bye shrugged off the disputes. "The crabs can be a pest, but they're easy to catch," he said.
Huts Galore
A sailor was marooned on a deserted island for 20 years. He was finally rescued by a merchant marine ship.
As the sailor was packing his meager belongings the captain of the ship asked, "I noticed you have built four huts. You are the only person on the island. What are they for?"
Well, said the sailor, "This one is my residence, the second is my church and that third is my microbrewery where I make coconut beer."
"That's very interesting", said the captain, " but, what about the fourth hut?" Oh", said the sailor, "That was the church I belonged to before I started drinking Coconut Beer."
Sailing on Wednesday
Whitsunday Sailing Club QUEENSLAND YACHT CHARTERS Wednesday Twilight Series
RACE 3 [24/03/04]
Division 2 Keel Boats; 1 DECEPTION M.SANDERS; 2 SANDPIPER C NICOLL; 3 DEHLER MAGIC; C PREEN.
Div Three; 1 ELYARA, BROWN; BLUE DIAMOND C. HILLIER; BREAKAWAY R.DAVIS.
Code @ Morse
Recently a new character has been added to morse code for the 'at' symbol as used in email address. This new sign, known as the "commat," consists of the signals for "A" (dot-dash) and "C" (dash-dot-dash-dot), with no space between them.
It seems this new sign is the first in at least several decades, possibly much longer. Among Morse code aficionados, no one could remember any other addition.
Some operators wouldn't mind more changes to spice up the language. Although Morse code has a period, a question mark and even a semicolon, it offers no simple way to articulate excitement.
Now the 'push' is on to add a character for the exclamation point, to express an emotion that's difficult to get across any other way.
Boat Show Art
Entry forms for the Oceanic Whitsunday Boat and Leisure Show 2004 Art Competition and Exhibition are available from El Dorado Galleries in Proserpine.
Them's the facts
Facts do not cease to exist because they are ignored. --Aldous Huxley
Fair winds to Ye!
Cap'n Dan
With the lighting of the Olympic flame in ancient Olympia last week the Athens games are looming large on the horizon.
' As in the daytime there is no star in the sky warmer and brighter than the sun, likewise there is no competition greater than the Olympic Games' Pindar, Greek poet, 5th century BC'
Stalin's 'Red Army' invades Europe
Hordes of giant Pacific crabs, whose ancestors were brought to Europe by Joseph Stalin in the 1930s, are marching south along Norway's coast, devouring everything in their path.
The monster crabs, which can weigh up to 25lbs and have a claw-span of more than three feet, are proving so resilient that scientists fear they could end up as far south as Gibraltar.
Energised by a mysterious population explosion a decade ago, whole armies of the crustaceans - known as the Kamchatka or Red King Crabs - have already advanced about 400 miles along the roof of Europe, overwhelming the ports of northern Norway.
They now number more than 10 million and have reached the Lofoten Islands off north-west Scandinavia, leaving in their wake what one expert described as "an underwater desert".
In a graphic display of the extent of the crab's submarine domination, some photographs of the ocean floor in Kirkenes in northern Norway show a writhing mass of the ugly, spiny animals.
Northern clams and other shellfish, once so numerous that divers could scoop up handfuls, have almost been eliminated.
Lars Petter Oie, a Norwegian diver who lives nearby, has seen the fjord outside his front door taken over by the crabs.
Plunging through a hole in the ice, another diver surfaced within two minutes with a huge specimen. A snap of its claw is enough to remove a man's finger.
Mr Oie said: "I have been to conferences on the crab and one thing the experts agree on is that they have rarely come across a species that is so adaptable.
"It can survive on almost anything: kelp, dead fish, seaweed and fish eggs. It even eats crushed shells to get the calcium it needs for its shell."
The relentless advance of the crabs has led to calls from some Norwegian marine experts for a government-subsidised "blitz" to try to halt their relentless march south.
At present, some Norwegian fishermen have been granted seasonal licences to catch the Kamchatka crab but stiff regulations on the size of the boat used and other criteria mean they are few in number.
Aasmund Bjordal, of the Department of Marine Resources in the western Norwegian town of Bergen, said: "We're between two policies. One is to get rid of the crabs. The other is to manage it as a fishing resource.
"In the meantime, it's already become an important source of income for some fishermen in the north. The problem is that it may be destroying the fishing stock."
Transporting the monster crabs to the Barents Sea was originally part of a Stalinist era scheme to provide food for populations in the north-western Soviet Union.
Norwegian officials dismiss suggestions that the crabs might sometime be slicing off the toes of swimmers as far south as Portugal after conquering beaches in Sweden and Spain, with side trips to Britain, Ireland and the Baltic Sea.
Yuri Orlov, a Russian who helped transport crabs by plane and train from the Pacific, reckons the species could reach the mouth of the Mediterranean. "It will keep going as far as Gibraltar," he told the Norwegian daily Aftenposten.
Orlov led a project to bring 2,000 female crabs, 1,000 males and 10,000 young from the Pacific in the 1960s. No one knows what caused the population to rocket in the 1990s.
The crab plan was launched under Soviet dictator Josef Stalin in the 1930s. Most died on early trips until Orlov hit on a survival of the fittest test - meaning the new crab stock may be even tougher than their Pacific cousins.
"I put the crabs on their backs and if they managed to turn over quickly, they were strong enough to make the trip," he said.
Fisherman Bye shrugged off the disputes. "The crabs can be a pest, but they're easy to catch," he said.
Huts Galore
A sailor was marooned on a deserted island for 20 years. He was finally rescued by a merchant marine ship.
As the sailor was packing his meager belongings the captain of the ship asked, "I noticed you have built four huts. You are the only person on the island. What are they for?"
Well, said the sailor, "This one is my residence, the second is my church and that third is my microbrewery where I make coconut beer."
"That's very interesting", said the captain, " but, what about the fourth hut?" Oh", said the sailor, "That was the church I belonged to before I started drinking Coconut Beer."
Sailing on Wednesday
Whitsunday Sailing Club QUEENSLAND YACHT CHARTERS Wednesday Twilight Series
RACE 3 [24/03/04]
Division 2 Keel Boats; 1 DECEPTION M.SANDERS; 2 SANDPIPER C NICOLL; 3 DEHLER MAGIC; C PREEN.
Div Three; 1 ELYARA, BROWN; BLUE DIAMOND C. HILLIER; BREAKAWAY R.DAVIS.
Code @ Morse
Recently a new character has been added to morse code for the 'at' symbol as used in email address. This new sign, known as the "commat," consists of the signals for "A" (dot-dash) and "C" (dash-dot-dash-dot), with no space between them.
It seems this new sign is the first in at least several decades, possibly much longer. Among Morse code aficionados, no one could remember any other addition.
Some operators wouldn't mind more changes to spice up the language. Although Morse code has a period, a question mark and even a semicolon, it offers no simple way to articulate excitement.
Now the 'push' is on to add a character for the exclamation point, to express an emotion that's difficult to get across any other way.
Boat Show Art
Entry forms for the Oceanic Whitsunday Boat and Leisure Show 2004 Art Competition and Exhibition are available from El Dorado Galleries in Proserpine.
Them's the facts
Facts do not cease to exist because they are ignored. --Aldous Huxley
Fair winds to Ye!
Cap'n Dan
Wednesday, March 24, 2004
Whitsunday Boat Show gets art show
Artistic painters and photographers from the 175,000 residents of Central Queensland will be able to compete for $6,000 in prize money at the Oceanic Whitsunday Boat and Leisure Show in June.
The Rotary Club of Airlie Beach as organisers of the annual event have added an art exhibition based on marine themes.
"Being primarily a boat show to exhibit some very beautiful boats and other 'boys toys', we thought that a first-class exhibition of marine art would also interest some of the thousands that attended last year, particularly those that go along with Dad but may not be that keen on boats, ropes and hopes of fair weather" the curator of the exhibition, Mr Tony Fossey, said
"To keep in line with the main theme of the weekend, we chose plain, simple, 'marine' as the subject to portray. The majority of visual artists and photographers in Central Queensland should find plenty of beautiful marine subjects here to portray. We have defined marine as being ' Of, From, Beside, For use on - the sea" Mr Fossey added.
"The Shipowners Club of London as the exhibition major sponsor have reported from their headquarters in the United Kingdom, that they are ecstatic that the entries will come from an area encompassing 600 kilometres of the most beautiful coastline and boating area in Australia."
Artists from along the coast will have a choice of entering into three divisions of the exhibition. An 'Open' section for any age and any medium. 'Open Miniature' section for any age and any medium, and Photographic.
The exhibition will be on display at the Oceanic Whitsunday Boat and Leisure Show at Abel Point Marina, Airlie Beach.
Topless shock
In 1935, the police in Atlantic City, New Jersey, arrested 42 men on the beach. They were cracking down on topless bathing suits worn by men.
Weather, climate and water
World Meteorological Day 2004 held this week celebrates the entry into force on 23 March 1950 of the Convention creating the World Meteorological Organization (WMO), as the successor to the International Meteorological Organization (IMO) established in 1873.
"The theme "Weather, climate and water in the information age" is selected in recognition of the vital role of technology in advancing meteorological, hydrological and related geophysical sciences that enable National Meteorological and Hydrological Services (NMHSs) to contribute to socio-economic development and to the protection of the environment. WMO therefore relies on, and actively promotes, the application of such technologies to the monitoring, understanding and prediction of the behaviour of the atmospheric and oceanographic systems and the water cycle." Says Mr M. Jarraud Secretary-General of WMO
Today, the world is changing faster than ever. There is greater awareness of the sensitivity of the economy to weather, climate and water that influence virtually all-human activities. For example, there is growing concern about the impact of natural hazards. Statistics over the last decade show that over 80 per cent of all natural disasters are of meteorological or hydrological origin.
Indeed, at no time in history has so much been expected from the sciences of meteorology, hydrology and related geophysical sciences in addressing the challenges associated with sustainable development in areas such as disaster mitigation, food security, water resources management, transportation, tourism and pollution control.
Achievements have been possible primarily due to major scientific breakthroughs and technological developments in observing, telecommunications and computer capability.
Apart from monitoring the ocean through ships and buoys, WMO sponsors the deployment of more technologically advanced measurements, which contribute to improving the understanding of air-sea interactions and the provision of services for marine users. For example, profiling floats (Argo floats) give temperature profiles down to 2 000 metres in the ocean, measure subsurface currents, and transmit accumulated data by satellite relay.
These modern systems of observations, supported by powerful computers and telecommunications facilities, have enabled the development of Numerical Weather Prediction techniques that have permitted significant improvements in real-time forecasts of various types of weather phenomena.
As for severe tropical storms, for example, forecasts and warnings involve satellite images for detection and tracking, computer models of the atmosphere-ocean system to predict their intensification decay as well as their trajectory and up-to-date telecommunication facilities for dissemination to all categories of users.
Steady improvements in predictions of tropical cyclones up to three days in advance, effective dissemination of warnings and preparedness measures have led to a dramatic decrease in related deaths.
There is also growing recognition of the economic and social value of weather and climate as a resource. Indeed, weather, climate and water information are vital for most socio-economic activities. For example, weather and hydrological forecasts are used to enhance agricultural production, manage water resources, combat desertification, ensure safe and efficient transportation, control pollution, and schedule the production and distribution of electricity, support leisure activities and the insurance industry.
The opportunities offered by the 'Information Age' to meteorological, hydrological and related geophysical sciences should enable WMO and its Members to address a growing number of challenges that relate to improved protection of life and property through better preparedness and vulnerability assessment as well through contributions to sustainable development and poverty reduction.
"In order to address these challenges successfully, it is my hope that this year will mark wider recognition of the need to modernize National Meteorological and Hydrological Services."
"For this reason, I would call on national authorities, the scientific communities, partner organizations, non-governmental organizations, the private sector and the public to ensure that, along with the modernization, they are also equipped with the necessary facilities to access and use the information provided under the umbrella of WMO in meeting effectively the environmental and developmental challenges of the 21st century" Mr M. Jarraud said.
Cutting-Edge Research
Prof. Trevor Cox (University of Salford in England) and fellow acoustics researchers concluded that, contrary to prevailing wisdom, a duck's quack does have an echo. And biologist Nette Levermann (Copenhagen's Zoological Museum), whose team monitored 100 walruses near Greenland, concluded that the animals use their right flippers more than their left. And an aerodynamics expert at Britain's Open University, aided by an Oxford engineering student, designed and machine-tested a beer coaster to produce the ideal model and conditions for winning at the British pub game of coaster-flipping. [The Guardian, 9-8-03] [Associated Press, 10-24-03] [BBC News, 11-3-03]
Good idea?
"If an idea is worth having once, it's worth having twice" -- Tom Stoppard
Fair winds to Ye!
Cap'n Dan
Artistic painters and photographers from the 175,000 residents of Central Queensland will be able to compete for $6,000 in prize money at the Oceanic Whitsunday Boat and Leisure Show in June.
The Rotary Club of Airlie Beach as organisers of the annual event have added an art exhibition based on marine themes.
"Being primarily a boat show to exhibit some very beautiful boats and other 'boys toys', we thought that a first-class exhibition of marine art would also interest some of the thousands that attended last year, particularly those that go along with Dad but may not be that keen on boats, ropes and hopes of fair weather" the curator of the exhibition, Mr Tony Fossey, said
"To keep in line with the main theme of the weekend, we chose plain, simple, 'marine' as the subject to portray. The majority of visual artists and photographers in Central Queensland should find plenty of beautiful marine subjects here to portray. We have defined marine as being ' Of, From, Beside, For use on - the sea" Mr Fossey added.
"The Shipowners Club of London as the exhibition major sponsor have reported from their headquarters in the United Kingdom, that they are ecstatic that the entries will come from an area encompassing 600 kilometres of the most beautiful coastline and boating area in Australia."
Artists from along the coast will have a choice of entering into three divisions of the exhibition. An 'Open' section for any age and any medium. 'Open Miniature' section for any age and any medium, and Photographic.
The exhibition will be on display at the Oceanic Whitsunday Boat and Leisure Show at Abel Point Marina, Airlie Beach.
Topless shock
In 1935, the police in Atlantic City, New Jersey, arrested 42 men on the beach. They were cracking down on topless bathing suits worn by men.
Weather, climate and water
World Meteorological Day 2004 held this week celebrates the entry into force on 23 March 1950 of the Convention creating the World Meteorological Organization (WMO), as the successor to the International Meteorological Organization (IMO) established in 1873.
"The theme "Weather, climate and water in the information age" is selected in recognition of the vital role of technology in advancing meteorological, hydrological and related geophysical sciences that enable National Meteorological and Hydrological Services (NMHSs) to contribute to socio-economic development and to the protection of the environment. WMO therefore relies on, and actively promotes, the application of such technologies to the monitoring, understanding and prediction of the behaviour of the atmospheric and oceanographic systems and the water cycle." Says Mr M. Jarraud Secretary-General of WMO
Today, the world is changing faster than ever. There is greater awareness of the sensitivity of the economy to weather, climate and water that influence virtually all-human activities. For example, there is growing concern about the impact of natural hazards. Statistics over the last decade show that over 80 per cent of all natural disasters are of meteorological or hydrological origin.
Indeed, at no time in history has so much been expected from the sciences of meteorology, hydrology and related geophysical sciences in addressing the challenges associated with sustainable development in areas such as disaster mitigation, food security, water resources management, transportation, tourism and pollution control.
Achievements have been possible primarily due to major scientific breakthroughs and technological developments in observing, telecommunications and computer capability.
Apart from monitoring the ocean through ships and buoys, WMO sponsors the deployment of more technologically advanced measurements, which contribute to improving the understanding of air-sea interactions and the provision of services for marine users. For example, profiling floats (Argo floats) give temperature profiles down to 2 000 metres in the ocean, measure subsurface currents, and transmit accumulated data by satellite relay.
These modern systems of observations, supported by powerful computers and telecommunications facilities, have enabled the development of Numerical Weather Prediction techniques that have permitted significant improvements in real-time forecasts of various types of weather phenomena.
As for severe tropical storms, for example, forecasts and warnings involve satellite images for detection and tracking, computer models of the atmosphere-ocean system to predict their intensification decay as well as their trajectory and up-to-date telecommunication facilities for dissemination to all categories of users.
Steady improvements in predictions of tropical cyclones up to three days in advance, effective dissemination of warnings and preparedness measures have led to a dramatic decrease in related deaths.
There is also growing recognition of the economic and social value of weather and climate as a resource. Indeed, weather, climate and water information are vital for most socio-economic activities. For example, weather and hydrological forecasts are used to enhance agricultural production, manage water resources, combat desertification, ensure safe and efficient transportation, control pollution, and schedule the production and distribution of electricity, support leisure activities and the insurance industry.
The opportunities offered by the 'Information Age' to meteorological, hydrological and related geophysical sciences should enable WMO and its Members to address a growing number of challenges that relate to improved protection of life and property through better preparedness and vulnerability assessment as well through contributions to sustainable development and poverty reduction.
"In order to address these challenges successfully, it is my hope that this year will mark wider recognition of the need to modernize National Meteorological and Hydrological Services."
"For this reason, I would call on national authorities, the scientific communities, partner organizations, non-governmental organizations, the private sector and the public to ensure that, along with the modernization, they are also equipped with the necessary facilities to access and use the information provided under the umbrella of WMO in meeting effectively the environmental and developmental challenges of the 21st century" Mr M. Jarraud said.
Cutting-Edge Research
Prof. Trevor Cox (University of Salford in England) and fellow acoustics researchers concluded that, contrary to prevailing wisdom, a duck's quack does have an echo. And biologist Nette Levermann (Copenhagen's Zoological Museum), whose team monitored 100 walruses near Greenland, concluded that the animals use their right flippers more than their left. And an aerodynamics expert at Britain's Open University, aided by an Oxford engineering student, designed and machine-tested a beer coaster to produce the ideal model and conditions for winning at the British pub game of coaster-flipping. [The Guardian, 9-8-03] [Associated Press, 10-24-03] [BBC News, 11-3-03]
Good idea?
"If an idea is worth having once, it's worth having twice" -- Tom Stoppard
Fair winds to Ye!
Cap'n Dan
Wednesday, March 17, 2004
Port of Airlie core study advances project
Work is progressing on the Port of Airlie Marina development in Boathaven Bay, Airlie Beach with a drilling rig barge currently on the site.
The drilling rig is taking core samples around the site as part of the Environmental Impact Study (EIS) being conducted.
The study is the final stage before work can start on the multi-million dollar marina according to a Whitsunday Sailing Club spokesman.
"I expect to hear in a couple of weeks if the Federal Government's Environment Australia are happy with the EIS to date" Sailing Club President David McMahon told On the Waterfront this week.
"The project has been signed off by the State Government and the club is awaiting final approvals," Mr McMahon added.
Join us for... Reef Discovery Month
Here in the Whitsundays, May is officially Reef Discovery Month. Each week of May, you will have the opportunity to attend an entertaining and informative presentation on the Great Barrier Reef. Topics will include Whales, Turtles, Dugongs, Sharks, Corals, Reef Fish and more.
For all those people who live and work in the Whitsundays, this will be a great chance to increase your knowledge and awareness of our most important resource, the Great Barrier Reef.
And for those who are really keen, you will also learn how to become involved in helping protect the reef through a number of projects run by volunteer groups right here in the Whitsundays.
The OUCH Volunteers are planning a Reef Discovery Month for May this year. This is something that the whole community can get behind and benefit from. This project needs community support.
If you have any constructive comments or would like to get involved in the program, just give Tony Fontes a shout. The OUCH Volunteers welcome all the help they can get. Reef Discovery Month is brought to you by the OUCH Volunteers -- "Working to Protect the Great Barrier Reef"
Contact, OUCH Volunteers 4946-7435
Fish talk
A fish communication researcher has discovered that fish can communicate using sounds, a report in the prestigious New Scientist publication says.
A team of researchers that included Ben Wilson of the University of British Columbia, Vancouver reported that herring communicate with each other via a high-pitched, "raspberry"-like sound emitted from their anuses. Since the sounds were frequent, whether the herring had eaten or not, the researchers concluded that the noise was not produced by digestive gases.
"The density of water means the fish need a certain pitch to be heard at a distance," the researcher said.
"Further research may show that the herrings use the sounds to organise their shoaling behaviour and this may relate to advanced studies of group behaviour in homo sapiens"
Kiss not just a kiss
An 8-year-old boy was suspended from his elementary school in Branson, Mississippi, because he kissed a girl on the cheek during a chase game and was therefore guilty of sexual harassment.
Far out
Astronomers announced they have found another most distant object in the universe, this one 13.2 billion light years away, for those keeping track.
Lights reported unlit
Mariners are advised that the lighted South Cardinal Mark beacon Q (6) + LFl. 15s in approximate position Latitude 20°05.7865'S Longitude 148°52.5938'E on Langford Reef has been reported to be unlit.
Mariners are advised that the following lighted beacons located at Hayman Island have been reported unlit:-
No 3 Hayman Reef in approximate position Latitude 20°04.3248'S Longitude 148°53.7631' the Starboard Lateral Mark beacon Fl.G.2.5s
No 4 Cockatoo Point in approximate position Latitude 20°04.7109'S Longitude 148°54.0523'E Port Lateral Mark beacon Fl.R.2.5s
Mariners should use caution whilst navigating in this area. Charts affected: AUS 252, 254, 825
Read his lips
"I understand small business growth. I was one."
President Bush on the economic recovery
Fair winds to Ye!
Cap'n Dan
Work is progressing on the Port of Airlie Marina development in Boathaven Bay, Airlie Beach with a drilling rig barge currently on the site.
The drilling rig is taking core samples around the site as part of the Environmental Impact Study (EIS) being conducted.
The study is the final stage before work can start on the multi-million dollar marina according to a Whitsunday Sailing Club spokesman.
"I expect to hear in a couple of weeks if the Federal Government's Environment Australia are happy with the EIS to date" Sailing Club President David McMahon told On the Waterfront this week.
"The project has been signed off by the State Government and the club is awaiting final approvals," Mr McMahon added.
Join us for... Reef Discovery Month
Here in the Whitsundays, May is officially Reef Discovery Month. Each week of May, you will have the opportunity to attend an entertaining and informative presentation on the Great Barrier Reef. Topics will include Whales, Turtles, Dugongs, Sharks, Corals, Reef Fish and more.
For all those people who live and work in the Whitsundays, this will be a great chance to increase your knowledge and awareness of our most important resource, the Great Barrier Reef.
And for those who are really keen, you will also learn how to become involved in helping protect the reef through a number of projects run by volunteer groups right here in the Whitsundays.
The OUCH Volunteers are planning a Reef Discovery Month for May this year. This is something that the whole community can get behind and benefit from. This project needs community support.
If you have any constructive comments or would like to get involved in the program, just give Tony Fontes a shout. The OUCH Volunteers welcome all the help they can get. Reef Discovery Month is brought to you by the OUCH Volunteers -- "Working to Protect the Great Barrier Reef"
Contact, OUCH Volunteers 4946-7435
Fish talk
A fish communication researcher has discovered that fish can communicate using sounds, a report in the prestigious New Scientist publication says.
A team of researchers that included Ben Wilson of the University of British Columbia, Vancouver reported that herring communicate with each other via a high-pitched, "raspberry"-like sound emitted from their anuses. Since the sounds were frequent, whether the herring had eaten or not, the researchers concluded that the noise was not produced by digestive gases.
"The density of water means the fish need a certain pitch to be heard at a distance," the researcher said.
"Further research may show that the herrings use the sounds to organise their shoaling behaviour and this may relate to advanced studies of group behaviour in homo sapiens"
Kiss not just a kiss
An 8-year-old boy was suspended from his elementary school in Branson, Mississippi, because he kissed a girl on the cheek during a chase game and was therefore guilty of sexual harassment.
Far out
Astronomers announced they have found another most distant object in the universe, this one 13.2 billion light years away, for those keeping track.
Lights reported unlit
Mariners are advised that the lighted South Cardinal Mark beacon Q (6) + LFl. 15s in approximate position Latitude 20°05.7865'S Longitude 148°52.5938'E on Langford Reef has been reported to be unlit.
Mariners are advised that the following lighted beacons located at Hayman Island have been reported unlit:-
No 3 Hayman Reef in approximate position Latitude 20°04.3248'S Longitude 148°53.7631' the Starboard Lateral Mark beacon Fl.G.2.5s
No 4 Cockatoo Point in approximate position Latitude 20°04.7109'S Longitude 148°54.0523'E Port Lateral Mark beacon Fl.R.2.5s
Mariners should use caution whilst navigating in this area. Charts affected: AUS 252, 254, 825
Read his lips
"I understand small business growth. I was one."
President Bush on the economic recovery
Fair winds to Ye!
Cap'n Dan
Tuesday, March 16, 2004
SeaWeek: 'Discover me in the sea'
This week is SeaWeek and the theme 'Discover me in the sea' enables us all to encourage the investigation and exploration of the amazing plants and animals that live and inhabit the sea.
During SeaWeek and through the year, make time to reflect on our seas, oceans and marine environments and the amazing environments that they are.
A new campaign from the Australian Government will support the safe use of plastic and the importance of keeping it out of the sea with the call 'Keep the sea plastic free'.
The issue of reducing the use of plastic bags will be supported by the campaign and help highlight the problem of plastic bags harming the marine environment.
Communications 150 years
Wednesday last, March 3rd a re-enactment of the sending of the first Morse coded message in the Southern Hemisphere between Melbourne and Williamstown took place.
In the early 1850's, getting a message from Melbourne to the port of Williamstown took several hours by horse. All that changed on March 3 1854 when the telegraph arrived and messages became almost instantaneous.
Students at Williamstown Primary School also joined in the celebrations watching the re-enactment by video and simultaneously sending SMS's between the two venues.
The Tropical Shirt Regatta
"We are delighted to be able to announce the hosting of the 2004 National Trailerable Yacht and Sportsboat Championships at Hog's Breath Race Week" Regatta Director Andrew Palfrey said this week.
"The Sportsboats added to the event in 2003. We look forward to having the involvement of plenty more trailerables this year this event will be held in conjunction with the existing race week program of one-design keelboats, IRC, PHS and Cruising divisions, scheduled for 13-19 August."
Known as the Tropical Shirt Regatta, Hog's Breath Race Week is gearing up for more fun in the sun, as well as a high standard of regatta management. Mt Gay Rum and Tooheys New are back to support HBRW and enjoy the post race dockside parties with this year's competitors. The newly completed land based facilities at Abel Point Marina will compliment the modern marina extensions.
Competitors will be able to relax after racing in the competitor's marquee whilst enjoying the renowned yachtie band, The Wolverines. Other shore-based activities will include radio controlled mini regattas using Blowfly One Metre yachts. After a stunning debut at Hog's 2003, Mucka's Coconut Lotto will be back again after a stunning debut at Hog's 2003 (Note: for those not present during Hog's 2003, try to picture lotto using "Mucka's" concrete mixing truck and coconuts. It's very Queensland).
Each day, the crew from Blowfly Yachts will offer demonstrations, tuition, racing and the chance for everyone at Hog's the chance to get a hands-on experience using one of the 10 identical boats. These activities will take place after racing in the "pond" in front of the Competitors Marquee. This is sailing without getting wet (unless you spill your drink).
Boss Hog Cruising
It will be a "gentlemen's cruise to Mooloolaba" when Boss Hog Don Algie's new Warwick 66 Storm 2 makes its ocean racing debut in this year's FKP Limited Sydney Mooloolaba Yacht Race on March 31.
With its home theatre, air conditioning, plasma TV screen and icemaker on board, the crew will no doubt be fighting for the navigator's position - but they'll have to get past Don's navigator of 15 years, Keith 'Vasco' Collicoat, also from Queensland.
Sydney sailors, many from Sydney Yachts which custom built this fast cruising sloop, will also join Don, a resident of Airlie Beach for 20 years and the founder of the Hog's Breath Café chain of restaurants.
Mostly retired from his business, although he does work from his onboard office while at sea, Don is the first to admit he is a "warm-blooded sailor" who rarely ventures south of the QLD/NSW border.
But last month he had to bring the boat to Sydney to have some work completed and given the FKP Limited Sydney Mooloolaba Race is "on the way home"; he's put in an entry for the 469 nautical mile race.
Designed by New Zealand's Alan Warwick and built of carbon composite with a full carbon rig, this high-tech luxury cruiser was launched eight months ago to replace Algie's previous boat Storm, which he bought in South Africa and owned for 18 years. Storm 2 will sail under the same Royal Cape Yacht Club sail number as Storm - SA10.
Pirates assist youth
Pirates' Day at RANSA at Rushcutters Bay, Sydney will raise funds for the Sir David Martin Foundation to assist youth in crisis. Boats get underway for nautical mayhem before lunch March 21 - returning to RANSA for a BYO at 2:00pm. Afternoon events include Rescue the Wench, Treasure Hunt and Tug O' War (not hauling a cannon!) with a prize giving at 3:30pm. Pirate costume and language is encouraged. Aargh!
Langford Reef light
Mariners are advised that the lighted South Cardinal Mark beacon has been re-established in position. Charts affected: AUS 254, 825.
Editor alarmed
The bells were ringing when the relieving editor of the beach newspaper arrived to allegedly to do some work. It appears nobody on the staff had advised him of the burglar alarm system. It is unknown at press time if he has spoken to police regarding the matter.
Winners
"People with winning attitudes . . . win."
Fair winds to Ye!
Cap'n Dan
This week is SeaWeek and the theme 'Discover me in the sea' enables us all to encourage the investigation and exploration of the amazing plants and animals that live and inhabit the sea.
During SeaWeek and through the year, make time to reflect on our seas, oceans and marine environments and the amazing environments that they are.
A new campaign from the Australian Government will support the safe use of plastic and the importance of keeping it out of the sea with the call 'Keep the sea plastic free'.
The issue of reducing the use of plastic bags will be supported by the campaign and help highlight the problem of plastic bags harming the marine environment.
Communications 150 years
Wednesday last, March 3rd a re-enactment of the sending of the first Morse coded message in the Southern Hemisphere between Melbourne and Williamstown took place.
In the early 1850's, getting a message from Melbourne to the port of Williamstown took several hours by horse. All that changed on March 3 1854 when the telegraph arrived and messages became almost instantaneous.
Students at Williamstown Primary School also joined in the celebrations watching the re-enactment by video and simultaneously sending SMS's between the two venues.
The Tropical Shirt Regatta
"We are delighted to be able to announce the hosting of the 2004 National Trailerable Yacht and Sportsboat Championships at Hog's Breath Race Week" Regatta Director Andrew Palfrey said this week.
"The Sportsboats added to the event in 2003. We look forward to having the involvement of plenty more trailerables this year this event will be held in conjunction with the existing race week program of one-design keelboats, IRC, PHS and Cruising divisions, scheduled for 13-19 August."
Known as the Tropical Shirt Regatta, Hog's Breath Race Week is gearing up for more fun in the sun, as well as a high standard of regatta management. Mt Gay Rum and Tooheys New are back to support HBRW and enjoy the post race dockside parties with this year's competitors. The newly completed land based facilities at Abel Point Marina will compliment the modern marina extensions.
Competitors will be able to relax after racing in the competitor's marquee whilst enjoying the renowned yachtie band, The Wolverines. Other shore-based activities will include radio controlled mini regattas using Blowfly One Metre yachts. After a stunning debut at Hog's 2003, Mucka's Coconut Lotto will be back again after a stunning debut at Hog's 2003 (Note: for those not present during Hog's 2003, try to picture lotto using "Mucka's" concrete mixing truck and coconuts. It's very Queensland).
Each day, the crew from Blowfly Yachts will offer demonstrations, tuition, racing and the chance for everyone at Hog's the chance to get a hands-on experience using one of the 10 identical boats. These activities will take place after racing in the "pond" in front of the Competitors Marquee. This is sailing without getting wet (unless you spill your drink).
Boss Hog Cruising
It will be a "gentlemen's cruise to Mooloolaba" when Boss Hog Don Algie's new Warwick 66 Storm 2 makes its ocean racing debut in this year's FKP Limited Sydney Mooloolaba Yacht Race on March 31.
With its home theatre, air conditioning, plasma TV screen and icemaker on board, the crew will no doubt be fighting for the navigator's position - but they'll have to get past Don's navigator of 15 years, Keith 'Vasco' Collicoat, also from Queensland.
Sydney sailors, many from Sydney Yachts which custom built this fast cruising sloop, will also join Don, a resident of Airlie Beach for 20 years and the founder of the Hog's Breath Café chain of restaurants.
Mostly retired from his business, although he does work from his onboard office while at sea, Don is the first to admit he is a "warm-blooded sailor" who rarely ventures south of the QLD/NSW border.
But last month he had to bring the boat to Sydney to have some work completed and given the FKP Limited Sydney Mooloolaba Race is "on the way home"; he's put in an entry for the 469 nautical mile race.
Designed by New Zealand's Alan Warwick and built of carbon composite with a full carbon rig, this high-tech luxury cruiser was launched eight months ago to replace Algie's previous boat Storm, which he bought in South Africa and owned for 18 years. Storm 2 will sail under the same Royal Cape Yacht Club sail number as Storm - SA10.
Pirates assist youth
Pirates' Day at RANSA at Rushcutters Bay, Sydney will raise funds for the Sir David Martin Foundation to assist youth in crisis. Boats get underway for nautical mayhem before lunch March 21 - returning to RANSA for a BYO at 2:00pm. Afternoon events include Rescue the Wench, Treasure Hunt and Tug O' War (not hauling a cannon!) with a prize giving at 3:30pm. Pirate costume and language is encouraged. Aargh!
Langford Reef light
Mariners are advised that the lighted South Cardinal Mark beacon has been re-established in position. Charts affected: AUS 254, 825.
Editor alarmed
The bells were ringing when the relieving editor of the beach newspaper arrived to allegedly to do some work. It appears nobody on the staff had advised him of the burglar alarm system. It is unknown at press time if he has spoken to police regarding the matter.
Winners
"People with winning attitudes . . . win."
Fair winds to Ye!
Cap'n Dan
Wednesday, March 03, 2004
Collisions disturb boating industry
The Queensland boating industry wants boaties to brush up on navigation rules, following the release of insurance statistics revealing the high level of boat collisions with underwater objects.
According to NRMA Insurance, collisions account for nearly half (46 per cent) of all boat claims in Queensland and New South Wales, and underwater objects are involved with many of these incidents.
The Boating Industry Association of Queensland believes wrong navigation could be responsible for the large number of underwater collisions.
BIAQ General Manager, Barry Hibberd, said the statistics were disturbing, given that all major Queensland waterways were navigable and clearly marked.
"The high level of underwater collisions indicates many boats are travelling outside these safe areas," Mr Hibberd said.
"While submerged hazards, such as floating trees and logs, could be partly to blame, it seems sandbars and rocks could be the main culprits."
Mr Hibberd said a quick review of the international navigation system of buoys; beacons and markers by owners would keep most boats out of trouble.
Show invites Trad boats
Tall timber ships sailed by iron men and women will feature at the third annual Oceanic Whitsunday Boat & Leisure Show to be staged on the June Queen's Birthday weekend at Able Point Marina
"We are featuring Traditional Boats and all things associated with the history of the marine industry at our boat show this year," says Rotary Club of Airlie Beach President Michael Elliott.
"We have invited the wooden boat group and the Townsville Maritime Museum to exhibit at our boat show,"
"We expect a large contingent of Traditional Boats to sail a Regatta with a chance for the public to sail on some of these magnificent ships" Mr Elliott added.
Organisers expect to have about 8000 visitors coming from south of Mackay to north of Townsville and local areas over the two days of the boat show.
Look forward to the Oceanic Whitsunday Boat & Leisure Show presented by The Rotary Club of Airlie Beach on The Queen's Birthday weekend 12th & 13th June 2004 at Able Point Marina.
Historic ships register
Vessels, large and small, are the most complex, fascinating and appealing artefacts of maritime history, yet by nature and because of the marine environment, they are less permanent than other historic relics.
The Australian National Maritime Museum is establishing an Australian Register of Historic Vessels (ARHV), to reveal the first national picture of the size, distribution and condition of historic vessels in Australia.
The Australian Register of Historic Vessels will be a valuable source of reference information available to boat owners, museums, clubs, researchers and enthusiasts, nationally and internationally. It will record details of construction, ownership, use and condition of historic vessels across Australia, and help marshal more efficient use of scarce resources in identifying priorities in the expensive task of vessel preservation.
The Register will appear as a multimedia database, capable of combining text; historic and contemporary still photographs, drawings, moving video, and even the voices of boat owners and builders.
Information will be sought on a standard format Vessel Nomination Form sent to boat owners, museums, associations and clubs to record their historic vessels. This will be easy to read and fill out. It will guide people through a series of questions to evaluate their own vessel's significance, assessed by independent experts drawn from a National Consultative Committee.
Future stages of the project's development will include a hard-copy illustrated manual to explain the Register and provide practical information for owners on documentation and conservation principles and techniques. The Register will be capable of distribution on interactive multimedia computer software, as hard copy, CD-ROM and on the Internet. Personal details will remain confidential.
The project is targeted to owners of historic sail and powered boats and enthusiasts - museums, yacht clubs and boat clubs.
By providing information about their vessels boat owners will benefit for the ARHV project:
* Receive certificates rewarding their active participation in heritage conservation
* Recognition for their boat in the form of a statement of significance, putting it into historical context
* Contacts with other boat owners and clubs
For information and to receive a Vessel Nomination Form contact On the Waterfront via The Guardian.
Good news wanted
Do you have a good news story that would like to share with others?
"Have you been out of the region promoting The Whitsundays," asks Liz Stewart Manager, Membership Services at Tourism Whitsunday.
"We'd love to know about it for inclusion in the Sea News Out of the Blue Newsletter"
You may contact Liz at Tourism Whitsunday and tell everyone the good news.
Able Pt lights & work
Mariners are advised that the navigation aids are now permanently established to mark the new marina channel entrance.
The construction of the new rock wall is still progressing with the entrance to Shingley Beach at the southern end of the rock wall remaining closed to navigation until further notice.
Charts affected: AUS 252, 253, 268
Smell the flowers
A cynic is a man who, when he smells flowers, looks around for a coffin.
- H. L. Mencken
Fair winds to Ye!
Cap'n Dan
The Queensland boating industry wants boaties to brush up on navigation rules, following the release of insurance statistics revealing the high level of boat collisions with underwater objects.
According to NRMA Insurance, collisions account for nearly half (46 per cent) of all boat claims in Queensland and New South Wales, and underwater objects are involved with many of these incidents.
The Boating Industry Association of Queensland believes wrong navigation could be responsible for the large number of underwater collisions.
BIAQ General Manager, Barry Hibberd, said the statistics were disturbing, given that all major Queensland waterways were navigable and clearly marked.
"The high level of underwater collisions indicates many boats are travelling outside these safe areas," Mr Hibberd said.
"While submerged hazards, such as floating trees and logs, could be partly to blame, it seems sandbars and rocks could be the main culprits."
Mr Hibberd said a quick review of the international navigation system of buoys; beacons and markers by owners would keep most boats out of trouble.
Show invites Trad boats
Tall timber ships sailed by iron men and women will feature at the third annual Oceanic Whitsunday Boat & Leisure Show to be staged on the June Queen's Birthday weekend at Able Point Marina
"We are featuring Traditional Boats and all things associated with the history of the marine industry at our boat show this year," says Rotary Club of Airlie Beach President Michael Elliott.
"We have invited the wooden boat group and the Townsville Maritime Museum to exhibit at our boat show,"
"We expect a large contingent of Traditional Boats to sail a Regatta with a chance for the public to sail on some of these magnificent ships" Mr Elliott added.
Organisers expect to have about 8000 visitors coming from south of Mackay to north of Townsville and local areas over the two days of the boat show.
Look forward to the Oceanic Whitsunday Boat & Leisure Show presented by The Rotary Club of Airlie Beach on The Queen's Birthday weekend 12th & 13th June 2004 at Able Point Marina.
Historic ships register
Vessels, large and small, are the most complex, fascinating and appealing artefacts of maritime history, yet by nature and because of the marine environment, they are less permanent than other historic relics.
The Australian National Maritime Museum is establishing an Australian Register of Historic Vessels (ARHV), to reveal the first national picture of the size, distribution and condition of historic vessels in Australia.
The Australian Register of Historic Vessels will be a valuable source of reference information available to boat owners, museums, clubs, researchers and enthusiasts, nationally and internationally. It will record details of construction, ownership, use and condition of historic vessels across Australia, and help marshal more efficient use of scarce resources in identifying priorities in the expensive task of vessel preservation.
The Register will appear as a multimedia database, capable of combining text; historic and contemporary still photographs, drawings, moving video, and even the voices of boat owners and builders.
Information will be sought on a standard format Vessel Nomination Form sent to boat owners, museums, associations and clubs to record their historic vessels. This will be easy to read and fill out. It will guide people through a series of questions to evaluate their own vessel's significance, assessed by independent experts drawn from a National Consultative Committee.
Future stages of the project's development will include a hard-copy illustrated manual to explain the Register and provide practical information for owners on documentation and conservation principles and techniques. The Register will be capable of distribution on interactive multimedia computer software, as hard copy, CD-ROM and on the Internet. Personal details will remain confidential.
The project is targeted to owners of historic sail and powered boats and enthusiasts - museums, yacht clubs and boat clubs.
By providing information about their vessels boat owners will benefit for the ARHV project:
* Receive certificates rewarding their active participation in heritage conservation
* Recognition for their boat in the form of a statement of significance, putting it into historical context
* Contacts with other boat owners and clubs
For information and to receive a Vessel Nomination Form contact On the Waterfront via The Guardian.
Good news wanted
Do you have a good news story that would like to share with others?
"Have you been out of the region promoting The Whitsundays," asks Liz Stewart Manager, Membership Services at Tourism Whitsunday.
"We'd love to know about it for inclusion in the Sea News Out of the Blue Newsletter"
You may contact Liz at Tourism Whitsunday and tell everyone the good news.
Able Pt lights & work
Mariners are advised that the navigation aids are now permanently established to mark the new marina channel entrance.
The construction of the new rock wall is still progressing with the entrance to Shingley Beach at the southern end of the rock wall remaining closed to navigation until further notice.
Charts affected: AUS 252, 253, 268
Smell the flowers
A cynic is a man who, when he smells flowers, looks around for a coffin.
- H. L. Mencken
Fair winds to Ye!
Cap'n Dan
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