Whitsunday 'winter' sailing report - 'fine'

If a reason were needed for record numbers of sailors competing in the current Tropical Shirt Regatta, our 'winter' weather could be one.
Some examples of world sailing event weather this week.
Athens example - "Racing was abandoned in all except the Finn & Yngling classes as the renowned Meltemi wind covered the Saronic Gulf on day three of competition with winds reported to be gusting up to 45 knots."
Pommyland example "The first strong winds of Cowes Week gave competitors some exciting and testing racing. With a forecast of 25 knots and gusts of up to 40 knots, several yachts found their rigging inadequate. The Solent Coastguard responded to 29 separate incidents, assisting 39 people, pulling six sailors from the water. A high rate of attrition among the fleet. Dark menacing clouds rolling in over the Solent have brought unpredictable and gusty conditions, adding to the chaos.
Mexican example - "After a horrendous Melbourne winter day on Saturday of gales, rain and snow, a cold westerly breeze of around 12 knots greeted the fleet for the 5th race of the Bavaria Yachts-ORCV Winter Series on Sunday morning."
Whitsunday example - "skipper O'Neil was again in brilliant sailing form on the warm waters of the Whitsunday Passage when . . ." "an ideal 12 knot south east breeze" and "Dry and sunny with some low level cumulus (white fluffy) clouds around today. Maximum land temperature: 25 degrees. Sea Temp: 21 degrees"
Just a few reasons why the 15th Hog's Breath Race Regatta has been the best yet and visiting sailors and their families enjoy the friendly local hospitality at the best winter regatta location on the Australian coast.

The winner is . . .

At Guardian press time, the 17.86 metre yacht 'Aftershock' had racked-up six straight line honours and a 1-3-1-1-2-1 corrected handicap score.
The Royal Prince Alfred Yacht Club 'turbocharged' sloop is the favourite to take her second 'Boss Hog' trophy.
Six times Olympian Colin Beashel and Australian Olympic team flag bearer usually sails with the Aftershock crew. They won the Admirals Cup teams racing championship last year on a chartered yacht, but Beashel had an event to sail in Athens, so skipper Colin O'Neil, internationally famed female navigator Adrienne Cahalan and crew will just have to do it themselves.

Fish quiz snags anglers

A new 30-second quiz on the DPI&F Fishweb site is a fun way for anglers to find out how much they know about Queensland's recreational fishing rules.
Web users are quizzed about fish size and possession limits, no take species and much more and are given a score out of 10 at the end, indicating whether they need to improve their fishing knowledge.
Queensland Boating and Fisheries Patrol education officer Karl Roebuck said the quiz was a quick and entertaining way for anglers to learn more about Queensland's recreational fishing rules.
"There is a lot to remember when you are out fishing and this quiz is a fun and interactive way to find out how much you know about fishing regulations," he said.
Test your fishing knowledge on the Fishweb site at www.dpi.qld.gov.au/fishweb

Claptrap

Delegates to the 2000 US Republican National Convention were given lists of spontaneous remarks they could make.

Boat laws changed

The Transport Operations (Marine Safety) Regulation 2004 came into effect on 16 August 2004.
The 2004 Regulation completely replaces its 1995 predecessor and comprises a number of significant changes that affect the operations of recreational, commercial and fishing ships.
Breach of any regulation can incur a penalty. A selection of changes follows.
New: SCUBA Divers can surface at any time, any ship is excluded from operating within 30 metres of a diver in the water if a Code A is displayed. It is legal for the ship tending the diver to operate within the 30 metres.
New: Water skiing: now define "skier" as a person being towed by a line attached to a ship including, a person water skiing or riding on a toboggan or tube. In addition, the designated observer must be 'competent' to tell the operator about dangers, skier signals, and mishaps.
New: Registration numbers will need to be changed or repaired if they are not legible from 30 metres.
New: Licensing: new competency based training and assessment scheme for recreational ship operations. The BoatSafe scheme came into effect from 1 July 2004. Under the BoatSafe scheme, a candidate for a Recreational Marine Driver Licence (RMDL) must satisfactorily complete either an approved BoatSafe competency-based training and assessment program or an Assessment with an approved BoatSafe training provider. Those who currently hold a superseded Recreational Ship Master's Licence (RSML) or a previous non-expiring recreational licence do not need to reapply for the new licence
Previous Requirements for recreational licence: The necessity to hold a Recreational Marine Driver Licence depended on several factors relating to the ship being used at the time, including the power of the ship, the ship's top speed and the type of hull.
Now: Regardless of the type of hull or the ship's top speed, after 1 September 2005 all recreational ships with an engine power greater than 4.5 kW or six (6) hp (around 100-150cc) require a Recreational Marine Driver Licence to operate.
New: Drink driving conviction (motor vehicle): any marine licence can now be suspended or cancelled in the event of the licence holder being convicted of a breath analysis offence (drink driving) in a road motor vehicle.
Note: The information has been prepared only as a brief guide to the changes introduced.
It is not intended as a comprehensive or definitive explanation of rights and obligations under the relevant maritime legislation and should not be relied upon as such.
For more detailed information, your local Manager Maritime Safety.

Unsafe, safe

Mariners are advised that the Leading Lights marking Unsafe Passage off West Molle (Daydream Island) have been restored to normal. Charts: AUS 252, 253
Fitzalan Passage light. Mariners are advised that the lighted Special Mark buoy FL.Y.2.5s in Fitzalan Passage has been restored to normal. Charts: AUS 252, 253, 254, 824

About time

"Put your hand on a hot stove for a minute, and it seems like an hour. Sit with a pretty girl for an hour, and it seems like a minute. That's relativity"
-- Albert Einstein

Fair winds to Ye!
Cap'n Dan

Ahoy sailors, welcome to Whitsunday

Sailors from around the globe are assembling in the Whitsunday Islands to enjoy a couple weeks of sailing and fun. The sailors and their families come here for the warm weather and the warm welcome they receive at our Tropical Shirt Regatta.
This year marks the 15th sailing of the Annual Hog's Breath Race Week in Airlie Beach. The regatta will boast a record fleet, say organisers.
After the Airlie week there's Hamilton Island Race Week looming large - also with a record fleet and everything set for great sailing and shoreside entertainment.
Welcome aboard!

Navy Cadets

A meeting at the Neighbourhood Centre last Saturday was positive about the establishment of a Navy Cadet group in Whitsunday.
Lieutenant Garry Rovelli ANC, Commanding Officer of Training Ship Pioneer, Mackay welcomed attendees and outlined the requirements needed to form a group locally. TS Pioneer Mackay is well established after 45 years and has considerable facilities and expertise.
Chief Petty Officer ANC Denise O'Donnell had been surprised that there had not been a Navy Cadet group in Whitsunday before now.
"It was a real surprise considering the nautical nature of Whitsunday that there has never been a presence previously.
"The idea of forming the group has been very well received' CPO O'Donnell said.
Whitsunday Mayor Mario Demartini asked about employment prospects for those who took part in the Navy Cadets. A young member of the Mackay group related how he was waiting for his posting on his first RAN ship following his time spent in the Cadets.
"The Cadets gave me the edge to get into the Navy" the young recruit said.
Lieutenant Commander Paul Kelly ANC Deputy Senior Office for North Queensland told the meeting that about twenty-five percent of those getting into the Navy had experience in the Cadets.
"Cadets are a definite advantage and prepare young people with training to give them a good start in the RAN and life in general."
A number of young people attended and looked over the display of Corsairs and canoes owned by the Cadets and used for training and fun on the water. Your Waterfront writer really liked CPO O'Donnell's scones.
Whitsunday Water Police, Proserpine and Airlie Beach RSL officials joined interested parents in supporting the forming of a Navy Cadet group for the Shire.
Interested? CPOANC Denise O'Donnell 0409114693 or your RSL Branch.

Help Me Escape!

Four locals will be locked up this week, but it is all in the name of raising money to help kids.
Friday August 13 is NATIONAL LOCK UP YOUR BOSS DAY and I will be locked up in my office for one hour, hand cuffed and fitted out in a prisoner's uniform raising funds for Kids Help Line. Bail is set at $500 and is the only ticket to freedom.
At press time, there were 2559 registered prisoners all over Australia.
In Whitsunday, we are represented by Artie Jacobson, District Manager Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service. Hamilton Island Manager Mrs Julie Hornstra and CEO Wayne Kirkpatrick and Whitsunday Community Services Inc Administrator Cap'n Dan Van Blarcom.
NATIONAL LOCK UP YOUR BOSS DAY aims to raise over $1,000,000 for Kids Help Line, which is enough funds to answer 100,000 cries for help from kids around Australia. Kids Help Line is Australia's only 24-hour, confidential and anonymous telephone and online counselling service for kids from 5-18 years old, so it's a great cause!
Help me get out! I really need your support. You can Bail Me (or the others) Out Online at the LOCK UP YOUR BOSS DAY website go to http://www.lockupyourbossday.com.au and receive a tax deductible receipt for your bail donation

Fishers fined

More than $15000 in fines was handed down in Cairns Magistrates Courts for illegal fishing offences.
In the first incident two men pleaded guilty and were convicted and fined $3000 each plus costs for unlawfully interfering with fishing apparatus.
They when found raiding crab pots following a Department of Primary Industries and Fisheries surveillance operation in Trinity Inlet, Cairns.
During the operation Queensland Boating and Fisheries Patrol (QBFP) officers attached a micro tag to a number of crabs that were then placed in crab pots positioned randomly throughout the inlet.
The officers noticed the two men taking crabs from pots that were not their own and then used the micro tag to confirm they had unlawfully taken the crabs.
A commercial operator was convicted and fined $9000 for unlawful fishing after QBFP officers found the man to be in possession of a large quantity of illegal species in his catch.
QBFP acting district operations officer Robert Hall, Cairns, said the fines sent a strong message to people breaking fishing regulations.

Stormy weather

Storm and heavy weather sails covered by Yachting Australia's Special Regulation 4.24 requires that from 1 July 2004: A required storm sail be either made of highly visible coloured material (eg. Day-Glo pink, orange or yellow) or have a highly visible patch on each side.

A real wiz

Six percent of Britons between the ages of 16 and 24 believe Gandalf defeated the Spanish Armada, says a survey.

Blue water race

In the Southport to Mackay Blue Water Yacht Race, handicap winner in both divisions was AFR Midnight Rambler, owned by Ed Psaltis and skipper Bob Thomas. All crew members came from Mackay.
Placegetters in IRC Division were Ichi Ban, a Farr 52 owned by 2nd time entrant Matt Allen; Double O Seven; line honours winner Andrew Short Marine and Seriously Ten, both 60 ft Volvo Around the World racing boats, and Melbourne-based Elektra, skippered by Michael Hiatt.
In PHRF Division, place getters were Double O Seven, a Northshore NSX38 skippered by Airlie Beach resident Warren Smith, Ichi Ban, Andrew Short Marine, Hi Fidelity, Seriously Ten and Elektra.
Good on yer, Warren!

Fitzalan unlit

Mariners are advised that the lighted Special Mark buoy FL.Y.2.5s in approximate position Latitude 20°17.9313' S, Longitude 148°55.047' E, in Fitzalan Passage off Whitsunday Passage, has been reported to be unlit. Mariners should use caution in the vicinity. Charts: AUS 252, 253, 254, 824

Best of luck to the Australian Olympic Sailing Team in Athens.


Fair winds to Ye!
Cap'n Dan

Welcome Aboard Navy Cadets, an ocean of fun!

The Australian Navy Cadets is a voluntary youth organisation sponsored by the Royal Australian Navy and about to get underway locally.
Cadets learn about sailing and seamanship, and are encouraged to explore their own potential. Cadets learn leadership skills and effective communication; they develop confidence, pride and self-discipline. But at the top of the list is FUN! And the Australian Navy Cadets has oceans of it.
Now Whitsunday will get it's chance to take part with the first meeting on Saturday for the commencement of Australian Navy Cadets TS Pioneer, Whitsunday Division.
See a display of the official Navy sailing craft, the Corsair, canoes and rescue boats. Music by the Cadet Band TS Pioneer, Mackay and an introduction to cadet activities are all on the agenda for Saturday August 7 from 10:30 am at the Whitsunday Community Centre, Hazelwood Court, Cannonvale.
Commanding Officer Leut Garry Rovelli ANC will welcome you and explain the role of Cadets in the community and issues required to make the Cadets a part of our community.
Cadets reflect Navy's strong commitment to the Australian community. Thousands of young Australians have improved their lives by learning citizenship through seamanship as Australian Navy Cadets. Many have progressed to successful careers in the Royal Australian Navy or made significant contributions to their civilian communities in later life.
If you're into adventure, you'll get as much as you can handle as an Australian Navy Cadet.
You'll get to go sailing, hiking, canoeing and camping. Plus you'll learn everything about seamanship from navigational training to Naval signals and communication.
However, it's not all fun and games. You will have to study first aid, fire fighting and pass muster in parade training. Nevertheless, if you can take on the challenge the rewards are good.
All you have to be is aged between 12 years 6 months and 19.
So, if you're ready to get fully trained in adventure, get into the Australian Navy Cadets and get out there!
Just add water!

Return of the ring

An epic search across the world, not including Hobbits but with a touch of the 'Luck of the Irish' and including an inscription on a golden ring as a clue has had a happy ending for a young couple.
A lost wedding ring is back on its rightful finger again following a 14-month search by the discoverer.
Lost, and then found deep in the waters of the Great Barrier Reef, Irishman Declan O'Rourke thought he had lost the ring forever when it slipped from his finger while diving in the Whitsundays during his honeymoon with wife Antoinette in April last year.
The golden wedding ring lay at the bottom of the reef for a month until SCUBA Diver Paul Walker from Manchester spotted the gold band shining on the seabed and began his epic search for its owner.
The clue, an inscription on the ring bearing the couple's names and their wedding date gave the finder something to go on.
Like the pot of gold at the end of a rainbow, the ring is back on the lucky Irishman's hand.

Boat Briefer course

"Happy to confirm the Bareboat Briefer course will be held at TAFE Cannonvale starting Tuesday 17th August. The final practical session will be on Saturday 28th August at Abel Point Marina."
"Enrolment at TAFE Cannonvale from August 4 for 15 students. If there is a further demand, we will run another course probably in October."
Cheers, John Bates. Maritime Studies BRIT Cannonvale Campus

Experts agree

"Even when all the experts agree, they may well be mistaken"
-- Bertrand Russell

Many thanks

Former President Bill Clinton's opening remarks at the US Democratic National Convention:

"Thank you. Thank you very much. Thank you, ladies and gentlemen. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you."

Fair winds to Ye!
Cap'n Dan

Heading North: East coast sailing season starts

The 19th annual Sydney Gold Coast Yacht Race will start this Saturday, 31 July, an event that is second only in status to the Rolex Sydney Hobart Yacht Race among long ocean races conducted by the Cruising Yacht Club of Australia.
The CYCA introduced the Sydney Gold Coast Yacht Race in 1986 as "the great winter escape", taking advantage of the completion of the Gold Coast Seaway. Extensive harbour works funded by the Queensland Government had opened up an all-weather entrance at the Southport bar to deep keel yachts, large pleasure craft and fishing trawlers.
Appropriately, the Official Starter of the inaugural Jupiters Gold Coast Yacht Race was the then Premier of Queensland, Sir Joh Bjelke-Peterson, who fired the starting cannon to send a fleet of 83 boats north with the promise of much warmer weather. An equally colourful character in the late Jack Rooklyn sailed his famous maxi yacht Apollo to a double victory, taking line honours and first place on corrected time.
Since then the 384 nautical mile race has attracted fleets of between 60 and 70 yachts each year, with entries coming mainly from New South Wales and Queensland, but also from Victoria, Tasmania, South Australia and New Zealand. In 1997, a record fleet of 86 boats took part.
The Gold Coast Race (sometimes called "the Southport Race" by yachties") is a prestigious race in its own right and is a feeder race north to the winter regattas in the Whitsunday Islands.
This year's Sydney Gold Coast Race has attracted a healthy fleet of 14 Sydney 38s that will go on from the finish at Southport to their Pan Pacific Championships at Hog's Breath Race week in Airlie Beach and National Championships at the Hahn Premium Hamilton Island Race Week.

Standing the test of time

Parents who threaten to read the riot act to their kids, an act that was passed 289 years ago in Britain, might try reading the real thing:
"Our sovereign lord the king chargeth and commandeth all persons, being assembled, immediately to disperse themselves, and peaceably to depart to their habitations, or to their lawful businesses, upon the pains contained in the act made in the first year of King George, for preventing tumults and riotous assemblies. God save the King."

Wordplay

Products no longer explode but instead undergo an "unplanned loss of containment."

Female record

The World Sailing Speed Record Council announces the ratification of the World Record "Transatlantic West to East, single-handed female" Sailed by: Ellen MacArthur on Castorama B&Q, 21st to 29th June 2004 for and elapsed time of 7 days 3 hours 49 minutes 57 seconds and average speed: 17.09 knots.
Ellen's story is not just about sailing, rather one of human endeavour - and here it is, from land-locked Derbyshire girl to 'Yachtsman of the Year', in a flash...
"An expert skipper, electrician, sail-maker, engineer, journalist, cameraman, doctor... unfortunately though, not yet a great cook!
Survival Eating: "Saving weight is critical, eating freeze-dried foodstuffs can significantly save weight on the boat - all Ellen has to worry about is not burning the water!
Race goes on: Ellen describes moments that ultimately make her endeavours immensely satisfying: "A beautiful sunrise welcomed the day in. Inky black clouds slowly lit by an intense yellow sun... A very strong feeling of pleasure to be out here on the ocean... The sheer joy to race again and the chance to be re-living this passion... I feel just lucky to be here."

Open and shut case

A new military radio system is jamming remote-control garage doors in communities near Eglin Air Force Base, Florida. During testing of a new $5.5 million two-way radio system, homeowners in the area reported that their garage door openers failed to work or went wild by themselves.
Complaints? A Federal Communications Commission spokesperson had some bad news for local homeowners. If the Air Force is running the system within its licensed frequencies then the users of garage door openers may have to change the operating frequencies of theirs.
So, shut it!

Hardly fair

We Have Seen the Present, and It Does Not Work: An employer in Liverpool, England, posting a help-wanted ad at a government unemployment office was told she would have to delete a reference to "hard-working" as it is discriminatory.
Are we falling behind in political correctness and sensitivity?

Uinervtisy rscheearch

Aoccdrnig to a rscheearch at Cmabrigde Uinervtisy, it deosn't mttaer in waht oredr the ltteers in a wrod are, the olny iprmoatnt tihng is that the frist and Lsat Ltteer be in the rghit pclae.
The rset can be a taotl mses and you can sitll raed it wouthit porbelm.
Tihs is bcuseae the huamn mnid deos not raed ervey lteter by istlef, but the wrod as a wlohe.

Unexploded ordinance

Shoalwater Bay training area. A Marine Danger Area has been declared due to unexploded ordinance from 0001 hours on Thursday July 1st 2004 to Monday February 28th 2005, for all waters within a 2 nautical mile radius of Raynham Island, Latitude 22° 15.97' S, Longitude 150° 32.46' E.
Any person or vessel found within this danger area will be removed by Australian Defence Force personnel or by Queensland Police. Any costs associated with such removal will be borne by the owner, charterer, hirer or agent of the watercraft. Offenders will be subject to criminal prosecution and upon conviction; a maximum penalty of 3 months imprisonment and $500.00 fine may be imposed. Charts affected: AUS 260, 367, 822

The Greek year

"The mind is not a vessel to be filled but a fire to be kindled."

Plutarch, Greek historian/biographer

Fair winds to Ye!
Cap'n Dan

HMAS Wewak granted Freedom of Entry to Whitsunday

A well attended ceremony at Airlie Beach on Saturday welcomed the officers and crew of HMAS Wewak and dignitaries headed by Australian Defence Minister Robert Hill.
Whitsunday Mayor Mario Demartini officially granted the Wewak crew, complete with armed guard, swords drawn and bayonets fixed, Freedom of Entry.
Mario Demartini handed the scroll of the city to Chief Petty Officer David Leeming. The scroll bearer in turn then handed the White Ensign (naval flag) to the Mayor. The chief police officer of the town Sgt Andrew Dupere representing the traditional sherrif then gave official permission for the ship's company to march through the town which they did with gusto to the sound of the beating drums and the Proserpine Citizens Band.
The Freedom of Entry is a British heritage tradition centuries old, started in medieval times and often sees cities adopt military ships named after them.
As the adopted ship of the town of Whitsunday, or Airlie Beach as it's better known, HMAS Wewak is now bound to protect the township in a time of military crisis or unrest.
And where was the ship? In dry dock in Cairns getting a refit so the entire crew could visit.
At the RSL, Wewak captain Lieutenant Commander Ett Mulder and Mayor Demartini exchanged plaques. The sailors gave a Wewak crest and photo of the ship, while Mayor Mario gave a shire crest and ariel photo of the town.
RSL President Bill Rose was presented with a ceremonial life buoy to be displayed in the new RSL at the Reef Gateway.
Sen Hill had an enjoyable relaxed time and later presented two certificates to sailors who had finished their engineering course and two commanding officers commendations. The recipients were quite proud to get their certificates from The Chief.
Senator Hill was very impressed with the new RSL.
On Saturday night the Wewak crew and partners enjoyed a formal dinner. The partners of the crew were quite happy to discover how friendly the town is and are looking forward to spending more time here.
RSL member Col Deller told The Guardian the event was the culmination of two years of planning.
"The Wewak had been busy working for Australia and it took two years to organise this event. It was worth it, just looking at the turn-up on Saturday. It doesn't happen in small towns very often. Senator Hill commented on this and how enjoyable it was to spend the previous night with his wife relaxing in Airlie Beach without the commonwealth car and all the Canberra paraphernalia and weather.
" The crew and their partners really enjoyed Airlie and commented that it was a very friendly place they will visit again.
"Thanks to terrorists, ceremonial swords are not allowed on aircraft, so the swords and weapons used on the day arrived by road.
"I'd like to thank Darren from Gunnadoo and Alf Scully who supplied the sound gear and Proserpine Citizens Band. Kim and Dale Turner did the catering featuring home made treats savoured by the Defence Minister and the appreciative Wewak crew at the RSL.
"All in all it was a very good weekend. ABC Radio gave us good national publicity and Navy News will further show off our town.
"It was worth the work, so thanks to all those who participated" Col added.
So, what's next Col?"
"It looks like the Minister and the Captain have agree to an enthusiastic plan to take school kids out on the ship when it is here next . . ."
Three cheers for Wewak and Whitsunday

Bare boating banned

Canoeing while naked is now illegal on the Elk River in Missouri USA.
McDonald County Commissioners passed a law Wednesday banning nudity on the southwest Missouri County's waters. Violators can be fined up to $1,000.
Commissioners took the action after the sheriff's wife and another woman were offended over the weekend at a private beach in a subdivision along the Elk River, near Pineville.
A group of about 20 canoeists, including several topless women, rounded a curve on the river near the beach, authorities said.
Diane Smith, who was with Evenson's wife and owns property in the subdivision, asked the women to cover themselves because there were children present, authorities said.
Smith told authorities that some people in the group started cursing and assaulting them.
Prosecutor Steve Geeding and the commissioners had been discussing an ordinance banning nudity on the river for several weeks, but the incident prompted them to take action.
"It was a horrible experience, but at least something good came out of it," said Smith, of Bella Vista, Arkansas.
Michael Royal, 26, of Olathe, Kansas still faces charges and was released on $50,000 bond.

Call signs

Ever wondered why Australian call signs start with the letter V?
Radio call signs are allocated on an international basis - Australia was originally allocated the block of VHA-VKZ at the London Radio Conference of 1912.
Many former UK colonies such as Canada, Australia, South Africa and British India were allocated call signs from the V series at the 1912 conference.
The reason? Queen Victoria had recently died - the block was allocated in her memory.

Female record

The World Sailing Speed Record Council announces the ratification of the World Record "Transatlantic West to East, single-handed female" Sailed by: Ellen MacArthur on Castorama B&Q, 21st to 29th June 2004 for and elapsed time of 7 days 3 hours 49 minutes 57 seconds and average speed: 17.09 knots.
Ellen's story is not just about sailing, rather one of human endeavour - and here it is, from land-locked Derbyshire girl to 'Yachtsman of the Year', in a flash...
"An expert skipper, electrician, sail-maker, engineer, journalist, cameraman, doctor... unfortunately though, not yet a great cook!
Survival Eating: "Saving weight is critical, eating freeze-dried foodstuffs can significantly save weight on the boat - all Ellen has to worry about is not burning the water!
Race goes on: Ellen describes moments that ultimately make her endeavours immensely satisfying: "A beautiful sunrise welcomed the day in. Inky black clouds slowly lit by an intense yellow sun... A very strong feeling of pleasure to be out here on the ocean... The sheer joy to race again and the chance to be re-living this passion... I feel just lucky to be here."

Open and shut case

A new military radio system is jamming remote-control garage doors in communities near Eglin Air Force Base, Florida. During testing of a new $5.5 million two-way radio system, homeowners in the area reported that their garage door openers failed to work or went wild by themselves.
Complaints? A Federal Communications Commission spokesperson had some bad news for local homeowners. If the Air Force is running the system within its licensed frequencies then the users of garage door openers may have to change the operating frequencies of theirs.
So, shut it!

Maritime communications

The first meeting of the Advisory Committee of the Office of Maritime Communications was held in June via teleconferencing.
Concern was expressed regarding the standard operating procedures and conversations held on marine radios. Paul Hedgcock (Proserpine) expressed concern about people holding old certificates that were not up with current technology or procedures. J Mair, Manager, pointed out that AMSA were not issuing MMSI numbers to operators holding an MROCP older than 5 years.
Policing frequencies - The public are at liberty to report in writing to the Australian Communications Authority any incident of misuse or abuse of radio frequencies and channels. Once received the ACA is obligated to investigate the matter.

Hardly fair

We Have Seen the Present, and It Does Not Work: An employer in Liverpool, England, posting a help-wanted ad at a government unemployment office was told she would have to delete a reference to "hard-working" as it is discriminatory.
Are we falling behind in political correctness and sensitivity?

Abel Pt shallow

Mariners are advised that a shallow area has been reported in the southern entrance of Abel Point Marina in the approach to Shingley Beach in approximate position Latitude 21°16.07' S, Longitude 148°42.42' E. Charts: AUS 252, 253, 268

Fitzalan Pass unlit

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. Charts: AUS 252, 253, 254, 824

Are you experienced?

"Experience is something you don't get until just after you need it."

Fair winds to Ye!
Cap'n Dan

Fifteenth Tropical Shirt Regatta only weeks away

As the weeks fly by in the lead-up to the Tropical Shirt Regatta, now a month away, organisers continue to work towards ensuring the fifteenth year at Airlie Beach is a memorable one.
"The event is renowned for the northern Queensland hospitality and Airlie Beach is ready to party!” says Hog's Breath Race Week Regatta Director Andrew Palfrey.
"Over the years, the "Tropical Shirt Regatta" has shown it can put on one hell of a party. The all-important Post Race Debriefing session will start at the Tooheys New marquee. Top yachtie rock'n'country band the Wolverines will be back to entertain the crowds. The Wolverines will be racing each day on Boardroom with her famous cow pattern headsail under the watchful eye of owner John Clinton. John will also back up on drums and vocals each day.
"Hog's Breath Race Week is renowned for its racing and the other important factor of a race week, the post racing entertainment. The laid back nature of Airlie Beach provides visiting yachties with an ideal playground." Mr Palfrey said.
Renowned yachting meteorologist, Ken Batt will be onboard for Hog's Breath Race week at Airlie Beach this year. Apart from working in key roles over many years at the Bureau of Meteorology where he is currently posted at Canberra, Ken has been involved in the Americas Cup, Volvo Ocean Race and Sydney to Hobart Races. Ken will be providing forecasts for competitors each morning in a briefing at the Tooheys New Marquee.
This year Race Week will feature the Australian Sports Boat Championships and the Australian Trailerable Championships. Sports boat President Ray Jones comments 'It's looking good for the Nationals, we are expecting a top class fleet with entrants coming from as far as WA. Brisbane in 2001 has been our most northerly location for our National titles and the usual Sportsboat wild wet ride will be warm and wet at Airlie Beach'.
Entries close - Friday August 6th racing starts Friday the 13th.

Best season

'The Best Mackerel season I can remember' would be the way I describe the bite in the Whitsunday at present says Capt Ken Bryant.
"All the usual haunts for Mackerel have been on fire and even during the wrong tides when they should be off the chew for six hours. I have not seen them so thick in a long time. The large schools of bait fish can take credit for this due to the big rains we enjoyed in January, February and March."
"Not only have the Macks been entertaining us but also the Sailfish and Marlin are showing up in big numbers. We fished a father and his two sons last Wednesday for a billfish charter on Marlin Blue and saw six free jumping Sailfish, raised 5 marlin and sails, hooked up 4 of them and tagged and released 2 sailfish in a double hook-up. Once again, the bait schools were everywhere."

All over tan

The skipper-owner of a nudist charter yacht was fined 4,500 pounds plus costs for running his boat without the correct certification.
Francois Haussauer, 52, had been chartering his 45-foot yacht Scintilla in the South of France for the niche naturist market reports Yachting Monthly.
He promoted the charter via the Internet, but at Horse Ferry Road Magistrates he was found guilty of not having a certificate of competence, and not having a load line certificate. The court heard he tried to pass off customers as 'friends'.

Fined for misleading

Two men have received heavy fines for giving false information to the Department of Primary Industries and Fisheries (DPI&F).
The men pleaded guilty in the Brisbane Magistrates Court recently to providing false and misleading information to a Queensland Boating and Fisheries Patrol (QBFP) officer.
One man was fined $2000 with no conviction recorded. The other was fined $3000 and ordered to pay a further $1500 in professional costs with no conviction recorded.
QBFP field officer Graham Shield said the fines sent a strong message to people not cooperating with QBFP officers.
"The men deliberately gave me wrong and misleading information while I was investigating a separate fisheries-related matter," Mr Shield said.
"Not cooperating with inspectors who are investigating fisheries offences is taken very seriously by the Courts and the Department and these fines reflect that."

Ab-Fab

One day a man, stranded on a desert island for over ten years, sees emerging from the surf a drop dead gorgeous blonde woman wearing a wet suit and scuba gear.
She approaches the stunned guy and says to him, "How long has it been since you've had a cigarette?"
Ten years," replies the stunned man.
With that, she reaches over and unzips a waterproof pocket on her left sleeve and pulls out a pack of cigarettes.
He takes one and takes a long drag and says, "Wow! Is that good!"
And how long has it been since you've had a sip of bourbon?" she asks him.
Trembling, the castaway replies, "Ten years." She reaches over, unzips her right sleeve, pulls out a flask and hands it to him. He opens the flask, takes a long swig and says, "Wow, that's absolutely fantastic!"
She starts slowly unzipping the long zipper that runs down the front of her wet suit, looks at the man seductively and asks, "And how long has it been since you've played around?"
With tears in his eyes, the guy falls to his knees and sobs, "Oh, Wow! Don't tell me you've got golf clubs in there too."

Mackay welcomes multihulls

Mackay Marina caters for an ever-growing multihull cruising fleet. The marina offers 47 purpose built multihull berths ranging from 11-22 metres and has a current total berth capacity of 255 berths including six mega berths catering for boats of up to 50 metres.
A big boat berthing facility is planned for the marina. These larger berths will range from 28 -35 metres and a limited number will be available for purchase. A key attraction to the marina for larger boat owners is the deep-water access with a 4.5 metre draught. Stage one of a separate commercial fishing boat berthing facility is now complete. The marina development also includes four fuel wharves with 13 pumps and a five-lane public boat ramp.

The cure . . .

"The cure for boredom is curiosity. There is no cure for curiosity"

Fair winds to Ye!
Cap'n Dan

Aussie Paralympics team chosen for Athens

The Australian Paralympic Committee (APC) was proud to announce the 2004 Australian Team for the Athens Paralympic Games this week.
The APC selected the best 143 athletes from around the country to represent Australia at what is to be the largest Paralympic Games ever held. In Athens, our elite athletes will compete against the best 4000 Paralympians in the world from 130 countries.
After our team's successes in Sydney, where we posted our highest medal tally in Paralympic history (149 Medals, 63 Gold), the expectations on our 2004 team are high. Being host nation in 2000, we had the luxury of having our largest team ever of 278 athletes.
Sailing will be represented by: Jamie Dunross (WA) - Sonar class, Colin Harrison (WA) - Sonar class, Jeffrey Milligan (WA) - Sonar class, Peter Thompson (ACT) - 2.4mR class
Jamie Dunross, who will skipper the Australian Sonar team in Athens, was part of Noel Robins' gold medal winning crew from the Sydney 2000 Paralympic Games.
Colin Harrison and Jeff Milligan under the guidance of Noel Robins placed 5th at the IFDS World Championships in 2002, qualifying Australia for the 2004 Paralympics. Harrison and Milligan will compete in Athens from 17th-28th September, at their first Paralympic Games.
Peter Thompson takes on the 2.4mR class again. Thompson was part of the Sydney 2000 Paralympic team, narrowly missing a medal after a starting line mishap in the last race.
The APC is confident we have chosen the best possible Australian team to continue Australia's reputation as one of the greatest nations in the world in Paralympic sport.

Government floats divers' code

People who dive for a living would benefit from better safety measures outlined in a new Queensland Government consultation paper say Premier Peter Beattie and Minister for Industrial Relations Tom Barton who released the consultation paper following Cabinet endorsement this week.
"We are proposing greater protection for occupational divers including crayfish and sea cucumber harvesters, people involved in aquaculture, researchers and underwater photographers," Mr Beattie said.
"Although only about 2,000 people dive in such industries, at least five people have died and 50 have been injured in the past five years.
"Divers have diverse jobs - from harvesting seafood and repairing boats through to retrieving golf balls - so a rigid set of regulations would not be practical.
"The government believes the industry needs a code of practice supplemented by regulations.
Minister Barton said the government now sought feedback from industry and the community on options in the Regulatory Impact Statement.
"Occupational dive operators are already subject to the Workplace Health and Safety Act and any breach can lead to large fines and prison terms. Three successful prosecutions have been completed and another six are under way.
In 2000, the government introduced the recreational diving and snorkelling code of practice to cover recreational divers and snorkellers and people employed in the recreational diving industry.
The code was amended in 2002 to introduce additional provisions for further protection of recreational divers and snorkellers.
The consultation paper will be sent to industry groups and other interested parties including Indigenous communities for their comment.
Comments on the consultation paper will close on August 20.

Knot ROPES

The Record of Practical Experience and Sea Service (ROPES) system has been instituted by Maritime Safety Queensland who says it is a new way for people to apply for reductions of up to 50 per cent of the sea service required for the issue of an open commercial marine licence (certificate of competency).
The maritime industry was concerned about the length of time involved in gaining the sea service required for a certificate of competency. To address this concern the National Marine Safety Committee (NMSC) developed the national Record of Practical Experience and Sea Service (ROPES) system.
The ROPES system utilises books that record tasks you have completed in addition to sea service. These books have a similar section to the Record of Service (ROS) books for recording sea service. However, the key difference is the ROPES books contain a number of structured, on-board tasks for the book holder to complete.
These tasks must be supervised and signed off by the master, engineer or a competent supervisor. People who partially complete a ROPES book may apply for a pro-rata reduction of sea service.
Participation in the ROPES system is voluntary. Should a person decide not to complete a ROPES book they can still complete the full amount of sea service normally required for the certificate of competency.
The ROPES system is not a competency based assessment and does not replace the need for people to complete the required training with an approved marine training provider.

News battle

An irate retired captain stormed into a newspaper office in a great fume. "In a feature you referred to me as 'battle-scared' instead of 'battle-scarred'."
"We are awfully sorry, captain," apologized the editor, "We'll rush through an urgent correction."
The correction read "In yesterday's article we called Captain James "battle scared", that was of course a gross mischaracterization. What we intended to say was that the good captain is a bottle-scarred seasoned sailor.

Mackay welcomes multihulls

Mackay Marina caters for an ever-growing multihull cruising fleet. The marina offers 47 purpose built multihull berths ranging from 11-22 metres and has a current total berth capacity of 255 berths including six mega berths catering for boats of up to 50 metres.
A big boat berthing facility is planned for the marina. These larger berths will range from 28 -35 metres and a limited number will be available for purchase. A key attraction to the marina for larger boat owners is the deep-water access with a 4.5 metre draught. Stage one of a separate commercial fishing boat berthing facility is now complete. The marina development also includes four fuel wharves with 13 pumps and a five-lane public boat ramp.

Holbourne Island Light

List of Lights Vol K/2004 Amend light range to 11Miles. Chart Aus825.

Weather report:

If you want the rainbow, you got to put up with the rain

Fair winds to Ye!
Cap'n Dan

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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