Aye, 'twas Blowen in Bowen for Easter Regatta

Sailors enjoyed the fresh breezes of Bowen on the weekend for the Easter Regatta with both off-beach and offshore yachts competing with good fleets.
The usually stiff breeze was a bit much for the younger sailors however there was plenty to do and all were looked after by the great crew at the Port Denison Sailing Club and the North Queensland Cruising Yacht Club. The volunteers of VMR and the Whitsunday Sailing Club helped man the radios and support boats to ensure safety and camaraderie both on and off the magnificent waters of Edgecumbe Bay.
Your Waterfront writer also learned that Bowen used to be Blowen, but the wind blew the 'L' out of Bowen.

Blessing of the Fleet Airlie Beach,

Our Blessing of the Fleet in Airlie Beach is held each year On Whitsun Day or Pentecost Sunday as our special day falling this year on Sunday, May 11.
A Blessing of the Fleet is part of the activities of many seaside and fishing communities around the world. Here in Whitsunday, we celebrate the naming of our Whitsunday area by James Cook in 1770.
This year a 'Festival of the Wind' incorporating the 19th annual Blessing of the Fleet is now being planned. The community is invited to add to and join in with the draft program now at http://blessingofthefleet.blogspot.com/

Pirates sail Sydney

This Sunday March 30 is the annual Royal Australian Navy Sailing Association
(RANSA) Pirates Day Race around Sydney Harbour with all funds raised going to the Sir David Martin Foundation, who are dedicated to supporting 'Young People in Crisis'.
The day starts at 11.45am under the big flagpole with a Pirate briefing where race instructions are handed out. Importantly, this race is about rat cunning and local knowledge and you will be given a list of questions and clues to follow. The race takes about an hour and a half to complete (under motor) and you should be ready to repel boarders at all times.
Following the race it's back to home port (RANSA) where the BBQ followed by the Rescue the Wench Race, Treasure Hunt, Tug of War competition and finally the awarding of prizes for Best Pirate and Wench, Best Pirate Ship and overall winner.
This is a great day for kids, so dress up your Pirate Ship with as many Pirate flags and accessories as possible, and most importantly - that you look like Pirates and Wenches - arggghhhhhh!!!

Li-low slashed, African dies

Three Spanish policemen face murder charges after a Senegalese man drowned when they allegedly punctured the inflatable mattress he was using to try to reach Spanish territory.
Laucling Sonko, 29, and three other Africans were intercepted by a Civil Guard boat as they approached a beach in Ceuta, Spain's North African enclave, last September.
The group had left Morocco using the li-low mattress to take them into Spanish waters. They were stopped metres from their destination and a police patrol boat towed them back into Moroccan territorial waters.
The policemen allegedly slashed their mattress 100 meters from the shore, ignoring Mr Sonko's pleas that he could not swim.

Marine head elected

Barry Jenkins has been elected unopposed as president of Marine Queensland, setting a new record for the state's peak marine group.
MQ general manager, Don Jones, said no other president had served for six consecutive years in the association's 34 year history.
Mr Jones said the unprecedented election results ushered in an era of stability and continuity for the association.
"The board can press on with its strategic plan uninterrupted by the retraining and education that follows election of new directors," Mr Jones said.
MQ directors are president, Barry Jenkins; vice-president, Rob Elwell; treasurer, Chris Grice; and committee members, Chris Carrington, James Cullen, Sharon Russell, Peter Taylor and Robbie Williams.
Mr Jones said the stable line-up of directors would assist with his transition into the role of general manager, following the retirement of previous general manager, Barry Hibberd, later this week.
The annual general meeting unanimously applauded Mr Hibberd's outstanding service to the industry and association since he was elected director of the Boating Industry Association of Queensland (the forerunner to MQ) in 1996 and general manager in 2000.

Offshore Challenge 2008 announced

The Australian Offshore Challenge is heading for Queensland, and the level of interest has been phenomenal say organisers.
The proposed course will run from Southport or Coomera starting on Sunday September 7th and finish at Airlie Beach one week later.
Even at this early stage, expressions of interest have been coming in from manufacturers, dealers and owners of a huge variety of power boats. We have had to expand the number and description of classes to cater for the broad mix of vessel types, sizes, power and configuration.
In addition to more "conventional" craft, the event office has received a strong level of enquiry from importers and owners of RIB's (sorry, RHIB's!). Clearly this event is an ideal testing ground for these high performance speciality craft.
You can expect some challenging navigation and a lot of spectacular scenery with each day offering a unique and different experience through one of the world's most beautiful coastal passages.
Being a navigational rally, the actual course to be followed will remain a secret until the start of each day.
The Australian Offshore Challenge offers a fantastic adventure for all power boat enthusiasts

Multihull petition

To date more than 5,700 petitioners including ISAF Sailors of the Year and Olympic medallists have signed the IOC petition asking that multihulls be included in the Sailing Regatta for the 2012 Olympics to be held in the UK.
It is probably the largest ever grass roots expression of concern at the management of our sport and concerns excluding a large part of the sport.
The multihull class was voted out at a meeting of the ISAF Council in November last year.
Before the November ISAF meeting the multihull community was unaware what was at stake or what to do to about it. Now that we know, we need to gather whatever submissions we can, however short the notice.


Ferals will be shot on sight

Mariners are advised that a feral animal control program is planned to take place on Wild Duck Island, Turn Island, South Percy Island and St Bee's Island in the Mackay\Capricorn National Parks Management Area of the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park.
These control operations will commence at 0800 hours on Monday, March 31 and continue until 1800 hours on Friday, April 4. This program will require the use of live firing of weapons.
An exclusion zone will be placed around Wild Duck Island, Turn Island, South Percy Island and St Bee's Island. The exclusion zone will extend seaward of the High Water mark by 200 metres.
All vessels are to remain clear of exclusion zones during the above detailed times. Marine VHF security calls will be made morning, midday and afternoon on channel 16. A Marine Parks vessel will be patrolling the outer edge of the exclusion zones. AUS charts: 251, 823

True fact revealed

"The first sailboat race occurred the first time one boat came within sight of another"

Fair winds to Ye!
Cap'n Dan

Pope to take a Captain Cook of Sydney

A harbour cruise is a 'must do' for any visitor to the Harbour City of Sydney.

His Holiness Benedict XVI is no exception.

Sydney World Youth Day coordinator Bishop Anthony Fisher said this week that a flotilla of boats carrying youth representatives and Catholic Church dignitaries from around the world will accompany the Captain Cook Cruises ship carrying the Pope as it arrives on July 17 for the official papal welcome.

"Hundred of thousands of young people will await him as he alights from this newly named Popeboat 'Barangaroo Wharf'," Bishop Anthony said on board the ship on Sydney Harbour.

While we all like talking and worrying about the weather, His Holiness will also take his chances with the weather, but with some help.

"I have nuns all around this country praying for good weather," Bishop Anthony Fisher says.

This week Bishop Fisher outlined the Pontiff's nautical jaunt while standing aboard the newly designated Popeboat. Pope Benedict will arrive via a 13-vessel "boat-a-cade" - a nautical adaptation of the traditional Papal motorcade.


Cap'n Bligh in Airlie

Hon Anna Bligh MP Premier of Queensland received her Ship Captain Certificate last week in Airlie Beach from Cap'n Dan representing the Polite Pirates of Whitsunday
Cap'n Anna said she had two teenaged sons, one of whom really liked talking like a pirate, so she could consider attending International Talk Like a Pirate Day in Airlie Beach on Saturday September 20.
Details at http://piratesofwhitsunday.blogspot.com/


Blowin' in Bowen

This weekend the Whitsunday Easter Regatta and North Queensland Championships are to be sailed in Bowen, Whitsunday North.
Hosted by Port Denison Sailing Club and Whitsunday Sailing Club the program starts on Saturday morning with sailing in the afternoon and a welcome BBQ at the PDS Club at sunset.
All classes are catered for and there may be vacancies on either private or official boats, especially in a working capacity, for people who may wish to get on the water. There may also be crewing positions for those sailors who don't have their own boat at the regatta. Let the registration crew know, so they can help you.
If required, there will be a special course/event set up for novice sailors, close inshore in sheltered waters, allowing them to participate without the pressure and distance of the larger courses.
Info: Jeremy 0429 315 939 Linda 0747862331


Rally for Mackay

Mackay Marina Village has been chosen as the new Australian Port of Entry for the Blue Water Rally.
The Blue Water Rally is a biannual event which enables cruising sailors to fulfil their dream of circumnavigating the world in their own yachts, accompanied by families and friends. Safe passage is made possible by a dedicated support team. This is the seventh world Rally organised by Blue Water Rallies Ltd and the fleet is made up from 30 yachts from 9 nations. Currently in the Galapagos Islands the yachts are due to arrive into Mackay in August for a 10 day stopover before continuing on to Darwin.
Rally Director, Peter Seymour who visited Mackay in January commented: "I was delighted with my visit to Mackay Marina and to the city. Australia has always been an important stopover for our crews, who particularly need good boatyard facilities for refitting their yachts halfway round the world.
Our visit to Mackay promises to be a great success and we look forward very much to arriving in August."


Ahoy! Err, Hello

Without Thomas A. Edison, we would all answer the telephone "Ahoy-ahoy!" like Mr. Burns. Yup, that's where that came from! When Bell invented the phone, he used to answer it that way, but Edison, who made great strides in furthering phone technology, politely suggested "hello" as a better option.

Sabot

The name "sabot" (pronounced sab-oo) comes from wooden shoes traditionally worn in some European countries, called clogs. The word is of French origin. The word sabotage was supposedly derived from sabot, as people would drop these wooden shoes into machinery when displeased with the conditions of their employment in order to stop production.

Nara Inlet light

Mariners are advised that the lighted port lateral mark buoy Fl.R.2.5s which has been temporarily established to mark the position of the destroyed lighted port lateral mark beacon in the entrance to Nara Inlet, has been reported to be off station. The position of the buoy is reported to be about 150 metres to the west of the charted beacon position. The buoy will be put back into its correct position on the end of the reef in the near future. Mariners should use caution when transiting the entrance. AUS chart: 252

Bright side of life?

"It is not fair for you to think negative thoughts and then to expect others to bring you happiness. It cannot be done. There is but one source of happiness and that is within you"

Fair winds to Ye!
Cap'n Dan

Whitsunday connection in message in bottle mystery

A message in a bottle from a crewman of the schooner Patanela tossed into the sea almost twenty years ago offers no clue to the mysterious disappearance of the ship.
The note, in faded blue handwriting inside a Bacardi bottle, was found on a secluded beach near Eucla, WA, by Esperance woman Sheryl Waideman on New Year’s Eve.
It was written by John Blissett, 23, of Taree, NSW, as he and three others sailed Patanela from Fremantle across the Great Australian Bight on October 26, 1988.
Blissett had worked on the Golden Plover on charter around the Whitsunday Islands; including work on the film “Dead Calm” with Sam Neill and Nicole Kidman.
Less than a fortnight later, Patanela simply vanished as she sailed eight miles off Botany Bay in the early hours of November 8, 1988. The crew planned to enter the harbour at dawn.
The solitary trace was a barnacle-encrusted life ring found floating off Terrigal seven months later.

Whitsunday holiday offer for finder
The note in a bottle sheds no light on what happened. Rather, it offers a sailing holiday to the lucky finder.
"Hi there - out here in the lonely Southern Ocean and thought we would give away a free holiday in the Whitsunday Islands in north Queensland, Australia," John wrote.
"Our ship is travelling from Fremantle, Western Aust, to Queensland to work as a charter vessel."
Adventure delivery to Whitsunday Islands
The note invites the finder to call one of a pair of phone numbers to claim the prize.
It gives Patanela’s position as 34 degrees, 26 minutes, 20 seconds south, 129 degrees, 18 minutes, 54 seconds east in the Great Australia Bight.
That’s south of Eucla - raising the possibility that the bottle drifted ashore and has sat undiscovered since.
John’s mother Marj, of Taree, said she was stunned to receive a message from Mrs Waideman revealing the discovery.
"It was totally unexpected. It is not going to solve the mystery but it is a little piece of John we never had," she said.
"It showed what an enjoyable and interesting trip they were having. They were two young blokes having a good time and they wanted to give somebody else a good time to enjoy the experience of sailing on such a magnificent vessel."
In an email to the Blissett family, Mrs Waideman described stumbling across the bottle while wandering on a secluded section of the coastline between Mundrabilla and Eucla.
"We had a great time as it’s very isolated and we love beachcombing, fishing and collecting old bottles," she said.
"The bottle did not look very old but I was still very excited and we decided to open it at home. We were all extremely upset after finding out the story to know these people were missing."
Aboard Patanela, a 19-metre steel-hulled schooner was John Blissett and his friend Michael Calvin, both from Taree, plus the skipper, Perth businessman Ken Jones and his wife Noreen. None have been sighted since Patanela departed Portland, Victoria, in early November.
Inquest into lost ship's fate
An inquest which started in 1992 concluded that Patanela foundered in the early hours of November 8, 1988 some time after a final radio contact with Sydney Harbour. Nothing remained to explain the vessel’s fate.
The disappearance sparked wide speculation and a variety of conspiracy theories including claims of piracy and drug running. There is no evidence to either substantiate or disprove any such claims.
The coroner concluded the most likely explanation for such a sudden disappearance was that Patanela was run over by a large commercial vessel - although there was a complete absence of any floating wreckage such a short distance off Sydney.
Throw in the towel
An increase in naked sleepwalking among guests has the Travelodge hotel chain in Britain training staff on how to better deal with them.
Step one: cover them in a towel.

Fair winds to Ye!
Cap’n Dan

Broken boat? Build a new sleek craft at Rotary challenge

After a week of broken boats it’s time to look to the future and the upcoming Oceanic Whitsunday Boat and Leisure Show held on the June long weekend.

At a meeting a couple of years ago, Ian ‘Stack’ Hudson of the Rotary Club of Airlie Beach listened to Ian Roebuck and your Waterfront writer talk about a boat building competition held at a wooden boat show we had attended. The rules, from memory, were that your crew was given a sheet of plywood, some Sikaflex glue, nails, hammer and a saw to build a boat.

Oh, yeah, you also got a lifejacket as you had to float yer boat around a course in the marina, some craft sliding gracefully beneath the water before finishing the course.

Was it fun? You bet!

So here’s a sneak preview of a proposal for a boat building competition for this year.
1. The boats must be designed to row/paddle and sail. 2. Apart from one pre built component, (not a hull), the boats, spars etc. must be built from materials provided.
3. Crew/team of two must also operate (get wet) the craft for the on water racing.
4. Supply tools including battery operated portable tools. 5. Plans and cardboard templates allowed. 6. Construction time is two hours.
Awards will be given for - Best Boat - Boat quickest around the race course and Overall Winner. More info Stack Hudson of the Rotary Club of Airlie Beach on 4946 5333 and there may also be an opportunity to compete at the Sydney International Boat Show.

Romance CQ Rescue record?

Question. Last week on Feb 12 the CQ Rescue helicopter winched 37 people from the shipwrecked schooner “Romance” at Hook Island. Is this the most people rescued by helicopter from a single vessel in Australia?

Dear Cap’n Dan, "Thank you for your inquiry. Over the last three years during my time at AMSA [Australian Maritime Safety Authority], there have been a number of rescues involving multiple people taken off vessels. AMSA was involved in the rescue of 10 crew members off the Wunma, a 113 metre motor barge caught in bad weather about 80 kilometres off Karumba in the Gulf of Carpentaria on 7 February 2007. At the end of April 2006 we also coordinated the rescue of 16 fishermen off the Taiwanese registered vessel San Chi No. 12 that had grounded in the Torres Strait.
It is my recollection that 21 crew were removed from the Pasha Bulker after she grounded at Newcastle last year. The response to this incident was coordinated by local police as was the response to the Romance incident in the Whitsundays.
While I cannot give a definitive answer as to whether the Romance rescue involved the most number of people being removed from a vessel, it would certainly rate quite highly. As indicated above, however, while AMSA does many rescues, police agencies around Australia also coordinate these on occasion and you would need to check with them regarding previous incidents."
Kind regards, Tracey Jiggins, AMSA PR Manager
(Note: More on this later. Cap’n Dan)

Stand out to sea

“It is better to meet danger than to wait for it. He that is on a lee shore, and foresees a hurricane, stands out to sea and encounters a storm to avoid a shipwreck”

Charles Caleb Colton

Fair winds to Ye!
Cap’n Dan

Surfs up as wild weather buffets Whitsunday waterfront

An intense low pressure weather system swept through Whitsunday on Monday night leaving the dawn light to show the extent of the damage left in its wake.

For shear numbers of damaged yachts, the wild weather achieved a cyclonic result.

Recent talks with Whitsunday Water Police Sergeant Graeme Pettigrew about issues put mooring maintenance near the top of a list for public information. Not hindcasting, but the weather beat us to it.

Many vessels had moorings still attached and showed evidence of dragging into other yachts on the way to the beach or rocks.

While there is millions of dollar of damage, the main thing is that there were minimum injuries to the public and service personnel. How can the community ever thank enough those that spring to action to help without regard to time of day or comfort? A big sincere salute to all those who do such a wonderful job.

A bad day of yachties and the boating public, although on the bright side some of our local surfers can stop complaining that we never have any surf.

We truly try to do something for everybody.

First, the bad news

In the aftermath of Christmas 1990 Cyclone Joy your waterfront writer was single handing a client's yacht to Airlie from Hamilton Island when during a marine VHF radio contact the words "Do you want the good news or the bad news" came across.

Hey, I know this, "OK Give me the bad news, over"

"Your yacht is parked on Mandalay Road, though it seems in pretty good condition, over"

"OK what's the good news, over?"

"You didn't get a parking ticket, over" Har, Har, Har.

Sailor to anchor Hamo

Glenn Bourke, the former CEO for the Volvo Ocean Race round the world and the man credited with delivering the world's best ever Olympic sailing regatta, is to become the new Chief Executive Officer for Australia's premier tropical island destination, Hamilton Island.
Chairman of Hamilton Island Enterprises, Mr Sandy Oatley, said he was delighted that Glenn Bourke had decided to take up the position.
"Glenn will bring to Hamilton Island exceptional business acumen along with proven experience in the successful organisation and presentation of major international events," Sandy Oatley said. "The island is enjoying remarkable growth and Glenn's ability will further enhance our plans for it to become a truly world class tourist destination and residential precinct."

Glenn Bourke said that he was enthusiastic about working with the Oatley family and taking on the many ventures that will come with his appointment.

"I am very much looking forward to the opportunity and challenge that the Oatley family has afforded me at Hamilton Island," Glenn Bourke said. "I have always enjoyed the camaraderie that comes through working with large teams that hold great vision and clear ambitions, and my role at Hamilton Island promises that.

"My new position will also bring a significant change in life that I am really looking forward to. I will no longer be travelling the globe continually, as I have been for the past seven years. Instead every day will see me appreciating the sheer beauty of this tropical island and the magnificent region that surrounds it."

After coordinating all aspects of the sailing regatta at the Sydney 2000 Olympics, Glenn Bourke became the CEO of Australia's leading ocean racing yacht club, the Cruising Yacht Club of Australia, in Sydney. His business and sailing talents then led to him being appointed CEO of Germany's Illbruck Challenge which won the Volvo Ocean Race 2001-2002, and the following year Volvo lured him into the position of CEO for the actual event. In that role he propelled the race into an exciting new era and reinforced its status as the world's most successful long distance ocean race.

As a yachtsman Glenn Bourke has won seven world sailing championships including, remarkably, three consecutive world titles in the Olympic Laser dinghy class, in 1988, 1989 and 1990. He represented Australia in the Finn dinghy class at the 1992 Olympics, has sailed in the America's Cup and Admiral's Cup, and was named Australian Yachtsman of the Year in 1989 and 1990.

Glenn will be based on the island and be responsible to the Oatley family for all island operations. He will take up his appointment in March.


Queens coming to Sydney

Cunard's 90,000-tonne Queen Victoria, is making her way to Australia on her maiden world voyage, along with her elder sister, Queen Elizabeth 2, who is sailing on her final world voyage. Their meeting on Sydney Harbour on February 24 will attract lots of interest and spectators.

Both liners left Southampton in January on their historic journeys, which saw the two ships meet again in New York with their big sister, Queen Mary 2, on January 13 and then again in Sydney Harbour on February 24.

Queen Victoria and QE2's Royal Rendezvous in Sydney will mark Queen Victoria's first visit to the harbour city and QE2's final call - thirty years to the day since her maiden visit.

The Queen Victoria will transit the Whitsunday Islands on February 28 enroute to Port Douglas.


Queen's curtain call

QE2's final Sydney visit marks her 24th call to the city since her first arrival in 1978. During her 40 years of service, the 70,327-tonne QE2 has carried more than 2.5 million passengers and sailed almost 5.5 million nautical miles - more than any ship in history.


Driftwood Bay depths

Driftwood Bay on the southern shore of Hamilton Island has been resurveyed with changes to depths and contours refer Chart AUS 252 Notice to Mariners [511/2007].


It's natural

"In physics, you don't have to go around making trouble for yourself - nature does it for you"

Frank Wilczek, Nobel prize-winning theoretical physicist, who is very interested in the quantum theory of black holes.
And we thought it was about the weather.


Fair winds to Ye!
Cap'n Dan

Whitsunday Navy Cadets homeless

The Whitsunday unit of the Australian Navy Cadets (ANC) are homeless due to space restrictions at the Cannonvale SES building.
The Cadets met last Friday evening for a social parade at the Whitsunday PCYC and discussed their future with parents and community members.
Local businesses and especially building owners will be approached with a view to the short term use of premises while long term plans are made.
The Whitsunday unit, part of TS Pioneer based in Mackay, has been operating for about four years and take part in community activities such as Anzac Day, Remembrance Day and Vietnam Veterans Day.
Nationally, the ANC comprises around 30% of Australians in Naval uniform. While not part of the Australian Defence Force, as part of the Navy family Cadets have a significant role to play in linking the Australian community to the RAN. Cadets provide a positive focus on the RAN in the eyes of the public.

Cadets crew Young Endeavour

The ANC/Young Endeavour Voyage Scheme is a sailing program for Australian Navy Cadets aged 16 and over, focused on building leadership, teamwork and communication skills through sail training. This scheme is being sponsored by the RAN and will extend to 24 Australian Navy Cadets and three ANC staff members to participate in two dedicated voyages on STS Young Endeavour.
Sponsorship will cover all voyage fees, airfares and accommodation. Nominations will be sought from cadets over the age of 16 years and placement will be offered to the top 24 cadets who can demonstrate outstanding personal and leadership qualities and who have made a valuable contribution to their local community during the past 12 months.

Box Jelly danger

Luckily Whitsunday has recently been free of Box Jellyfish envenomation incidents recently, but recent rains have flushed the deadly creatures from their breeding grounds into the sea where they will develop into potential killers.
Surf Life Saving Queensland is warning swimmers that this is the time of the year when they are most likely to be stung by box jelly fish.
Dangerous Marine Creatures Program coordinator Melissa Cowlishaw says there have been 12 stings across the north since mid October.
But she says scientists are predicting a record season this year.
"It's really important that they swim within the red and yellow flags and within the stinger resistant closures, but it's important to remember that those enclosures don't stop the Irukandji jelly fish from coming through, just the larger box jelly fish," she said.
"We ask people to also wear some form of personal protective swim wear that covers 75 to 80 per cent of their body."

Pest fish

Steps to control the spread of pest fish stepped up this week with more than 6,000 Tilapia eradicated from two farm dams.
Department of Primary Industries and Fisheries (DPI&F) fisheries biologist Malcolm Pearce said following the recent publicity about a tilapia infestation in the Endeavour River, a number of land owners had contacted DPI&F with concerns their dams contained the pest fish.
"From the size and location of the tilapia we found in the Endeavour River, it is more likely that the pest fish were illegally released into the area prior to Christmas from a home aquarium," Mr Pearce said.
Under strict conditions, Rotenone (poison) was used to kill the fish in the farm dams before they were cleaned up by DPI&F officers and disposed of away from the water.
"We are urging people who think they have tilapia or other pest fish in their dams or in their homes in an aquarium, to contact DPI&F for advice and possible assistance with disposal."
"It cannot be overstated how important it is for people not to move tilapia and that they need to be disposed of away from the water," Mr Pearce said.
"Female tilapia may carry eggs in their mouth, and these eggs can survive long after the adult fish is dead.
Under Section 89 of the Fisheries Act 1994 a person must not possess noxious fisheries resources or release noxious fisheries resources into Queensland waters.

Pest fish in Qld

Noxious pest fish in Queensland include Carp, Piranhas, Tilapia, Electric Eel, Largemouth Bass, Mosquitofish and Nile Perch.

Barra back on bite

The end of the closed fishing season for barramundi on both the east coast of Queensland is expected to draw keen anglers to local fishing hot spots.
The East Coast season opened at midday February 1.
The closed season is set aside each year to help protect barramundi during spawning which is a vulnerable time in their life cycle.
Department of Primary Industries and Fisheries (DPI&F) senior fisheries management officer Anita Ramage said annual seasons are in place to not only protect our fish species, but to ensure that there are enough stocks to cater for Queensland's keen fishers.
"The closures allow fish to spawn and stocks to replenish to ensure there are healthy fish stores for current and future generations of Queensland anglers," Ms Ramage said.
"The closures in the Gulf vary from year to year and are always timed according to lunar and tide cycles coinciding with spawning peaks, so it is important for fishers to check when the season falls each year.

Barra Rules OK?

In the open season there is a possession limit of five barramundi per person. Minimum and maximum size limits also apply.
If fishing in one of Queensland's 18 impoundment areas that have been stocked with barramundi, one of the five barramundi you can keep can be greater than the maximum size limit of 120 cm.
A Stocked Impoundment Permit (SIP) is required to fish in many impoundment areas that are stocked with barramundi so anglers should ensure their permits are valid. SIP cost $35 a year or $7 per week and are available from local businesses in the vicinity of each of the dams on the scheme, online or over the phone.

It's that simply

Occam's Razor: "Pluralitas non est ponenda sine necessitate."
Translation = "Avoid complexity when other options are at hand."
William of Ockham (1285-1349)

Fair winds to Ye!
Cap'n Dan
060208

2008 to mark 25 years for Hamilton Island Race Week

The significance of the 25th anniversary edition of Audi Hamilton Island Race Week has already led to the Farr 40 class planning to make a welcome return to the event, which will be staged between August 23, and 30, 2008.
Regatta organisers are making a special effort to have as many yachts that have competed over the past 24 years part of the historic silver jubilee celebrations.
There will also be a special division for classic yachts.
These participants will be part of an anticipated record fleet of 250 from Australia and abroad that will be racing at what has become Australia’s most successful and highly awarded regatta for offshore keelboats.
In preparation for such a remarkable fleet, Hamilton Island management has announced plans to undertake a major expansion of the harbour marina.
“We were caught a little by surprise by the record fleet of 217,” in 2007, said the chairman of Hamilton Island Enterprises, Sandy Oatley, “so we couldn’t provide the marina facilities we would have liked for everyone. Our plan is to complete an entire new marina arm before Race Week 2008 so that the number of yachts that will have to raft up will be kept to a minimum.”

Year of the Reef

Ten years ago, 1997 was declared the International Year of the Reef (IYOR). The first IYOR campaign was initiated in response to the increasing threats and loss of coral reefs and associated ecosystems, like mangroves and sea grasses. IYOR 97 was a global effort to increase awareness and understanding of coral reefs, and support conservation, research and management efforts.
IYOR 97 proved to be very successful, with over 225 organizations in 50 countries and territories participating, over 700 articles in papers and magazines generated, hundreds of scientific surveys undertaken, and catalysed conservation and policy initiatives, as well as numerous local and global organizations dedicated to coral reef conservation.
Recognizing that ten years after IYOR 97 there continues to be an urgent need to increase awareness and understanding of coral reefs, and to further conserve and manage valuable coral reef and associated ecosystems, the International Coral Reef Initiative designated 2008 as the International Year of the Reef (IYOR 2008).

IYOR 2008 will:

* Strengthen awareness about the ecological, economic, social and cultural value of coral reefs and associated ecosystems
* Improve understanding of the critical threats to coral reefs and generate both practical and innovative solutions to reduce these threats
* Generate urgent action at all levels to develop and implement effective management strategies for conservation and sustainable use of these ecosystems.

Tip of the Day:

Be a marine debris crusader! In addition to picking up your own rubbish, carry away the anything that others have left behind. More than just an unsightly nuisance, beach litter poses a significant threat to the health and survival of marine organisms, which can swallow or get tangled in beverage containers, plastic bags, old rope and other debris.

Cliff drop for drunk

In California, witnesses say an out-of-towner had been partying with friends. After drinking a few mixed cocktails, they say he "took off running toward the ocean" -- apparently unaware of a steep drop-off. The 19-year-old male fell from a cliff onto a beach below. After his tumble, witnesses called for help to rescue the injured man.

Eco yachting

Chartering with Queensland Yacht Charters has became more eco-friendly. QYC has gained its Advanced Eco-Certification, which recognises that the company has achieved best practice in ecologically sustainable tourism.
The award recognises QYC’s primary focus on experiencing natural areas and fostering environmental and cultural understanding, appreciation and conservation. The certification also recognises their contribution to local environmental groups.
Adrian and Suzette Pelt, owners of QYC since 1988 and their crew - Kellie & Kristin in Reservations and Terry, Phil and Tanya in Operations, will personally ensure that you have a wonderful holiday.

Yacht rescues fisher

World ARC yacht Tillymint, an Oyster 82 taking part in World Cruising Club's round the world rally, has been involved in the dramatic rescue of a stranded Caribbean fisherman whilst on route to Panama.
The small open fishing vessel, the Vegas from St.Lucia, had been drifting for 20 days without a serviceable engine. In the early hours of Saturday January 26 (local time), at approximately 80 nautical miles off the island of Aruba, the on-watch crew of Tillymint heard faint cries for help from close by, though they could not see another vessel. In the time it took the crew to drop sails, turn the yacht around and get back upwind against 25 knots to the incident position, the crew of the Vegas had started a small fire to attract attention. The fishermen were in a desperate situation, since despite passing close to other vessels they had been unable to raise a distress call.
Unfortunately, their signal fire got out of control and before Tillymint reached their position, the crew had to abandon the vessel and jump into the sea to escape the fire. One crewmember was rescued and taken onboard Tillymint. However, in the darkness and weather conditions prevailing at the time, they were unable to locate the remaining three fishermen.
All World ARC yachts have now resumed their course for Panama.

Vessel lost

Mariners are advised that the 8.90m vessel "Elsie 2" has been reported missing. The vessel was last seen moored near the entrance of the Pioneer River, but may have drifted or sunk during recent inclement weather. Mariners are advised to proceed with caution when transiting this area. AUS chart: 249

Point to ponder

“On the whole human beings want to be good, but not too good, and not quite all the time”
- George Orwell

Fair Winds to Ye!
Cap’n Dan
300108

Taste of cyclonic weather rains on Whitsunday

With the huge rains this week and the hovering monsoon lows that sometimes become cyclones, it might be a good time to revisit a storm called Ada.
The deadly cyclone with an unimaginative name Ada hit the Whitsunday islands and mainland on January 18/19 1970.
"Cyclone Ada – Queensland's first for the year – was moving in from the Coral Sea last night, headed directly towards the glamour island resorts in the Whitsunday Passage," a newspaper reported in 1970.
"The islands and towns along the coast were on full alert but the weather bureau said the cyclone was not expected to cause major damage."
However, it was not the best call by the Bureau of Meteorology They got it wrong.
Twenty-four hours later: "Gigantic seas and 100-mile-an-hour winds (160km/h) smashed through Great Barrier Reef resorts leaving 75 per cent of buildings flattened on Hayman Island and 'utter destruction' at Daydream."
The following day the toll was counted; fourteen people dead, mainly fishing or boat crew; some caught in mainland floods. Damage to property, estimated at today's values, was about $500 million.
Almost totalled were Daydream, South Molle Island, Happy Bay, Palm Bay on Long Island. Lindeman Island was wrecked and all its boats sunk.
Airlie Beach, Shute Harbour and Cannonvale on the mainland, had damage to 80 per cent of the buildings.
Wreckage of the trawler Whakatane washed-up, three children and four adults were recorded as lost at sea.
Ada was a "small" cyclone when calculated by diameter size, which was about 20km at the eye.
But it carried a severe punch with winds that stripped the leaves every tree.
However, there are always stalwarts, a Hayman Island legend says the bar stayers sang along to We Shall Not Be Moved.
"It wasn't until bottles began crashing from bar shelves, the glass wall started to bend inwards and the roof lifted with every gust that people agreed to be ushered into the dining room," says a newspaper report written on the 25th anniversary of the tragedy.
"Almost on cue, the bar roof peeled off and the crowd was bustled further back into the kitchen."

Historical Fact:

Tropical Cyclone Ada hit the Queensland coast on January 17th-18th of 1970. She was listed as a category 4 cyclone and damaged the Whitsunday Islands and areas near Proserpine. Fourteen people, mainly marine crew died as a result.

Sabot Nationals

“Well, it had to come to an end! After a fantastic regatta held on Sydney Harbour, all the Sabots are on their way to their home states, including 'Madness', sailed in the regatta by Klaus and Eva Lorenz from Whitsunday Sailing Club. Klaus and Eva picked up a trophy for second place in the orientation race, held on the first day, but fared less well in the rest of the series, coming 11th overall in the end. Notwithstanding this disappointing (for them) result, they had a great deal of fun and made or renewed many friendships.
“The organisation of the regatta was faultless, the host clubs, Vaucluse Amateur -foot. Sailing Club, and Vaucluse Amateur Yacht Club doing a great job fully utilising their wonderful location in Watson’s Bay.
Whitsunday Sailing Club, in conjunction with North Queensland Sabot Association will jointly host the event next time, from 27th December 2008 to 5th January 2009.
The regatta will cap off Whitsunday Sailing Club's proposed "Year of Sail", which begins in the new school term with learn-to-sail courses for students of Cannonvale State School and Whitsunday Christian College.

Soylent Green Racer

EarthRace is set to take off on its ultimate goal: The motorboat round-the-world record.
The EarthRace boat isn't some Greenpeace sponsored, tree-hugging tug. No! It's a carbon/Kevlar-hulled, 1080-Horsepower, 78 foot speedboat with a sharp bow meant to harpoon waves.
The new twist is a somewhat disgusting one - Captain Pete and two of his volunteers underwent liposuction recently, dumping the fat that doctors removed into their fuel tank. It's certainly an interesting way to show how versatile their propulsion system is.
Demonstrating commitment to the cause, Bethune underwent liposuction and donated enough to produce 100ml of biofuel, while two other, larger volunteers also had the procedure, making ten litres of human fat.
This in turn produced seven litres of biofuel, which could help the boat travel about 15km.
EarthRace is fuelled on 100 per cent biodiesel and has a net zero carbon footprint.
Circumnavigating the globe represents the pinnacle of powerboat challenges, and more than 24,000 nautical miles is the world's longest speed challenge.
Peter Bethune is attempting his second circumnavigation of the planet in EarthRace, a boat that is powered by biodiesel fuel as an alternate to fossil fuel. In order to draw attention to the trip, he and two other crew members received liposuction and collected about 2.5 gallons of fat from their bodies. That’s enough to go nine miles. In all, the ship carries 3,000 gallons of fuel and can go up to 2,800 miles on a full tank. It can withstand heavy winds and 50 ft. waves. The trip has been estimated to take about 65 days.

Surprise Rock beacon

Surprise Rock beacon east of Hamilton Island is reported destroyed. Mariners are advised that the lighted isolated danger mark beacon Fl(2)6s in approximate position latitude 20° 21.28' E, longitude 149° 01.6' S which marks Surprise Rock east of Hamilton Island is reported as destroyed. Mariners should navigate with caution in the vicinity. AUS charts affected 252, 253, 371 and 824.

Have a go!

“When someone tells you something defies description, you can be pretty sure he's going to have a go at it anyway”

Fair winds to Ye!
Cap’n Dan
160108

Marine stinger funding cut leaves public at risk

Lisa Gershwin studies jellyfish. She is the world's only dedicated jellyfish taxonomist and has named over 150 jellyfish. Lisa's work concentrates on the box jellyfish and Irukandji.
Best known to the public as the Marine Stinger Coordinator for Surf Life Saving Queensland, Lisa is a bona fide member of the George and Ira Gershwin family and if you pardon the obvious, George Gershwin’s ‘Rhapsody in Blue’ springs to mind when one learns that Lisa is out of a job this week.
Lisa has been high profile and worked locally with our Marine Stinger Committee who won an award from Surf Lifesaving this week. Additionally, she has assisted organisers of the YEA! Youth Environment Awards at the PCYC. Nationally and internationally, she has graced Robyn Williams’ ‘The Science Show’ on ABC Radio National and ‘Quirks and Quarks’ on CBC in Canada.
Talking to Lisa this week, she thanked the Whitsunday Shire Council especially Mayor Demartini and Councillor Jack Lumby for their support in regaining funding for her work; work that has seen public awareness raise while jellyfish stings have fallen.
“The work by Whitsunday Shire in support of stinger safety has been just fabulous,” Dr Lisa told Waterfront.
“They have worked tirelessly for the safety of all in North Queensland. I get a bit emotional but it isn’t about me really, it’s about whether little kids survive, its about tourists and moms and dads being safe.”
Whitsunday Shire Council has been a leader in trying to regain funding for Lisa’s work and are currently attempting to interest the State government.
The Irukandji jellyfish are named because of the condition, Irukandji syndrome, which results from their sting. Irukandji syndrome includes lower back pain, nausea and vomiting, cramps, sweating, muscular restlessness, and a feeling of doom. There's no mark left from the sting and there is nothing to test for. Death is usually the result of a stroke.
Simply wearing a protective suit could save a life.

Give thanks for Blessing

A big Thank You to Reverend Terry Ayling and his Dad Peter for their work developing the Festival of the Wind in support of our 18th Blessing of the Fleet on Sunday.
At the sailing club, the ever-helpful Jim Hayes and his sailors, young and still young, were wonderful. Those young sailors displaying boat-handling skills in their small boats are always an inspiration, even to old-err seadogs.
The Citizens band and the Proserpine High School band were excellent. The Lions marquee on the front lawn of the club was perfect for those gathering in His name to give special thanks, recognition and prayers to those who work and serve on the sea, those of the Navy, merchant service, and the Water Police and rescue services who do a dangerous job to benefit all.

Dent to Dunk

“The 2007 Dent to Dunk Race was sailed in wet and windy conditions. Six yachts faced the starter and only five finished the race,” reports John Graham from Port Hinchinbrook at Cardwell
Spud Gun, a catamaran owned by Peter Millar of Airlie Beach, took line honours in a time of 22 hours 45 minutes to average just over 10 knots over the 228 nautical mile downwind course. Mummbo, a Mumm 36 sailed by Chris Smith of Townsville, was the first monohull to finish two hours 44 minutes behind SPUD GUN.
The Dent to Dunk Rally had a fleet of 40 yachts that anchored each night on the way up.
The forecast 25 to 30 knot southeasterly soon developed with rain squalls reaching a reported 40 knots.

Film fight for Pirates

Pirates of the Caribbean: At World's End set a new US Memorial Day weekend box office record. Pirates brought in $142 million Friday through Monday, but fell short of breaking the best Friday-Sunday opening ever, the $151 million made by Spider-Man 3 a few weeks ago.

Master Mariners Regatta

More than 80 craft ranging in size from the 23-foot Bear Class sloops to the 122-foot topsail schooner Lynx set sail at the weekend to contribute to a spectacle on San Francisco Bay – the annual Master Mariners Regatta.
Many entries date back to the early 1900s and at least one - the veteran scow schooner Alma - to the 1800s. Back then, indeed since 1867 the Master Mariners was raced in commercial sailing ships, and the object was to raise money to care for retired sailors and the families of those lost at sea.
In those days, winners didn't get trophies. They got useful things like a cord of wood or a ton of potatoes. The potato tradition continues today in perhaps the oddest wrinkle you will ever read in any sailing instructions: If one of the big schooners can't quite make it around a mark, it will count as a rounding if they can hit the mark with a thrown potato. (Hmmm, maybe they should try that at the America's Cup.)

Old gaffers

Historic gaff cutter Jenny Wren, launched in the 1890s and probably the oldest yacht in Australia still racing (albeit occasionally), won her division of the Sydney Harbour Bridge 75th Anniversary Regatta.
The 28-foot gaff-rigged cutter that features a bowsprit almost half her overall length was one of more than 40 classic wooden yachts that added their tribute to the Bridge's birthday.

Gipsy Moth IV home

Gipsy Moth IV returned to Plymouth this week after completing her second global voyage, this time sailed by young people. She returned to the city exactly 40 years to the day since Chichester sailed into Plymouth Sound after completing his record-breaking circumnavigation in 1967.
The Gipsy Moth IV Project has provided nearly 90 deserving young people with the opportunity of a lifetime - of challenge, adventure and achievement. The famous vessel has visited 20 countries around the world and generated a following of thousands via the project’s website and educational resource packages distributed to UK schools.
Following the global voyage, Gipsy Moth IV will join UKSA’s fleet of yachts in Cowes and continue to take young people on adventurous sailing experiences.

For my roses

“Some people grumble because roses have thorns; I am thankful that the thorns have roses”

Fair winds to Ye!

Cap’n Dan

Fishing adventures, lures and raw prawns

Your Waterfront writer joins Guardian readers in enjoying the fishing adventures of Kat and Ez in their Fishing Shennigans column each week.
Their love of bright, shiny and new things proves the viability of bait shops selling baubles. If they are on the end of a line girls, they’re called ‘lures’. This includes the shiny 4WD on your shopping list.
The girls have passed on some great information regarding crocs, bait, vehicles, fishing gear and ‘spots’. Learning by doing is the most fun as long as you survive the experience.
The girls have even been reading things like the Fishing Guide supplied by the “lovely” Fisheries officers.
However, we have to come the raw prawn on the issue of using non-Australian raw prawns.
Now to be fair, perhaps the raw prawns the girls used were Aussie prawns, in which case it’s ok. But not if they are imported.
Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority Executive Director John Tanzer says imported green prawns could carry exotic viruses, such as the white spot syndrome virus, that were not dangerous for human consumption but had the potential to be transferred to Australian stocks of prawns and crabs.
“If you're unsure what baits to use, follow the Queensland Department of Primary Industries and Fisheries guidelines, read raw seafood labels carefully, and avoid the use of imported green (uncooked) prawns as bait or berley,” he said.
Every fisher shares their excitement at getting something on the line. Hopefully Kay and Ez will keep the close encounters with crocs to a minimum so we may continue to enjoy their adventures.

Buffett Groovy launch

A favourite with sailors, singer Jimmy Buffett took delivery of a new sailboat christened ‘Groovy’ a Tofinou 9.50 in St. Barth
Designed by Michel Joubert, and said to be as fast as she is expensive. Buffett and friends, enjoyed a brief christening, and then he went out for an afternoon sail.
Singer Jimmy Buffett is a frequent visitor on the French island, and owns a house there. He also owned a hotel, the Autor de Rocher, before it burned down.
Saint-Barthélemy is a French island located in the Caribbean among the Leeward Islands about 150 miles east of Puerto Rico.

Sunny outlook?

Sunglasses date back to 15th century China, where they were worn by judges to conceal their expressions while presiding over court.

Young Endeavour

Please could you circulate this message to your community to encourage 16 - 23 year olds to apply for an 11-day voyage on the Young Endeavour tall ship. Our ballot is open until 1 April 2007.
Not for profits and Community organisations can also sponsor a young person to sail and can bypass the ballot selection process. This is an opportunity to offer training in team work, leadership and communication in a unique environment.
Amy Osborne Sponsorship Manager Young Endeavour Youth Scheme said voyages are for 11-days with a departure scheduled from Airlie Beach later this year.

Wooden boats

This weekend sees the seventh Australian Wooden Boat Festival taking place at the Hobart’s Constitution Dock. The maritime city hosts the festival with the historic waterfront precinct a scene of colour, excitement, action, music and flavours, all inspired by the sea.

Hayman lights restored

Mariners are advised that the two lighted beacons located in The Narrows at Hayman Island have now been restored to normal. AUS charts: 254, 370

“Don't knock the weather. If it didn't change once in a while, many people would have trouble starting a conversation”

Fair winds to Ye!

Cap’n Dan

2005's last minute will have 61 seconds

World clocks will be set back by one whole second at midnight on Dec 31 this year.
Researchers have said that the Earth has not been able to keep up with its rotational pace. As such, December 31's last minute will have 61 seconds instead of 60.
Following advice of astronomers, who use observations of stars to monitor Earth's spin, the International Telecommunication Union has decided to adjust the world's clock.
"People who have short-wave radios and nothing better to do on New Year's Eve can actually hear this 'leap second' correction being made," said Roger Sinnott, a senior editor at Sky and Telescope magazine.
Astronomers have said that tuning into the short-wave station WWV at 5 or 10 MHz, or CHU at 3335 kHz, will allow people to count 61 official seconds before the minute before midnight at Greenwich.
If everything went right, all personal computers, GPS receivers, and radio-controlled clocks around the world will automatically adjust themselves, they said, adding that the last time a leap second was added was on Dec 31, 1998, before most of today's computers were manufactured.
Some communications engineers have however said that the insertion of a leap second is a needless annoyance. Astronomers have on the other hand said, that it would signal the end of mankind's fundamentally Sun- and star-based timekeeping system.
The International Earth Rotation and Reference Systems Service (IERS) has announced the introduction of a "time step" at the end of December to add a "leap second" as 2006 arrives.
Leap seconds are needed to keep clocks in step with Earth's rotation, which varies by several thousandths of a second per day. Slowing down the clocks every year or two keeps them coordinated. As 2005 transitions to 2006, Coordinated Universal Time (UTC) will be retarded by 1.0 second. This essentially means that the last minute in 2005 will be 61 seconds long: December 31, 2005, 23:59:59; December 31, 2005, 23:59:60; January 1, 2006, 00:00:00. This adjustment will affect UTC and all time scales based on UTC. Loran-C and GPS will not be adjusted physically, however.
For GPS, the leap second correction, contained within the UTC data of the navigation message transmitted by satellites, will change. After the leap second, GPS will be ahead of UTC by 14 seconds.

Barramundi on holidays

Barramundi remain off-limits this holiday season along Queensland's east coast.
The Department of Primary Industries and Fisheries (DPI&F) senior fisheries management officer Anita Wohlsen said that the Barramundi closed season was aimed at protecting stocks of barramundi during their spawning period.
"The closed season allows fish to spawn and stocks to replenish ensuring healthy fish stocks for current and future generations," Ms Wohlsen said.
"The annual closed season for Barramundi along Queensland's east coast will be in place until midday February 1, 2006.
"The on-the-spot fine for taking a Barramundi during this period is $300.
"While barramundi will be off-limits in most areas, anglers wanting to catch the iconic fish can still throw in a line at 18 of Queensland's stocked impoundments where a fisher is permitted to have one barramundi in their possession.

Don't dump your fishy friends

The Department of Primary Industries and Fisheries (DPI&F) is urging people not to dump their unwanted fishy friends when they go on holidays this Christmas.
DPI&F principal scientist Peter Jackson said most aquarium and some pond fish species are not native to Queensland and have the potential to cause serious environmental damage if released into local creeks or streams.
"Pet fish should never be released into dams and creeks or flushed down the toilet. People need to make arrangements for their pet fish to be looked after on the holidays or they need to dispose of them appropriately," Dr Jackson said.
"If people have fish which they no longer want, they should dispose of them by putting them in an ice slurry to humanely kill them. Alternatively, they may be able to give them back to the shop where they were purchased.
"Pet, ornamental and bait fish can all too easily turn into pests when released into our waterways. A few non-native fish could become thousands in the wild and may compete aggressively with native fish for food and space, degrade habitat, and introduce exotic diseases and parasites.
"Prevention is our best protection. Pest fish can upset the balance of a whole ecosystem and when they become established in a water body they can become impossible to eradicate."

International sailing summit

Connect to Sailing's overriding goal is to revitalise grass roots participation in all categories of sailing and put sailing firmly back into growth with a focus on youth.
Sailing is a lifetime's sport - and it is part of International Sailing Federation (ISAF) mandate to ensure that as many people as possible have the opportunity to participate and benefit from the sport.
As the world governing body for the sport of sailing, ISAF is in a position of influence. ISAF has a community - its members - the 114 national sailing authorities around the world.

Hook Island buoy

Mariners are advised that the unlit red marker buoy between Stanley Point and Cockatoo Point, Hook Island in approximate position latitude 20°04.3815'S, longitude 148°54.1439'E is reported to be no longer in position. Mariners are advised to navigate with caution in this area. AUS Charts Affected - 252, 254, 370, 825

Newfoundland fisherman's saying.

'Tis another year gone
God Bless you an' yours
May 'ee grant you
FAIR WINDS
As you bend at d'oars.


Best wishes of the Season and Long may your big jib draw!

Cap'n Dan

Help for Boaties starts on dry land

The Boating Industry Association of Queensland wants boat owners to render assistance to each other during the Christmas/New Year season.
And, the BIAQ says, dry land would be a good place to start.
BIAQ General Manager, Barry Hibberd, said record boat ownership approaching 200,000 would result in a higher than usual number of novice boaties on the water this year.
Mr Hibberd said the large number of local boat owners and interstate visitors would put pressure on launch and retrieve facilities.
"Beginners can have difficulty getting their boats in and out the water and
I urge seasoned boaties to help out the novices," Mr Hibberd said.
"It's a marine tradition to help out someone in distress and this should extend to boat ramps and car parks."
He said a bit of help from experienced hands would get boats moving in and out the water more quickly.
Mr Hibberd also reminded boaties not to get into the Christmas spirits while on the water.
He said the .05 alcohol limit applied on the water as well as on the road.
Mr Hibberd endorsed Marine Safety Queensland's "Go easy on the Drink" safety campaign for the Christmas/New Year holiday season.

Curly Wind Season

We are now into what people in the north of this fine state sometimes call the Curly Wind Season.
Why Curly Winds? Cyclones or Tropical Revolving Storms are accompanied by wind velocities that have a tendency to curl trees, girders, vehicles, houses and antennae - thus Curly Winds.
This means of course that Radio Amateurs throughout the North should have by now ensured that the shack and portable batteries are in good condition and that at least one emergency antenna for each band of operation is kept in a safe place should the need arise to operate on behalf of the community
Everyone should check that their household cyclone kits are fresh and fully stocked and include a radio with new batteries in case of a Curly Wind episode.

The drunken sailor

A case of what do you do with a drunken sailor when police were called to investigate reports of a "body" in a dinghy in Cairns Inlet.
Concerned passers-by called the police when they saw a man lying in a dinghy tied to a wharf near the Cairns Yacht Club.
A 45-year-old man was just sleeping it off after consuming a few too many drinks in the scorching sun.
However, the man wasn't happy to be woken.
After ordering the police off his boat, he untied his dinghy, fired up the motor and sped off across Trinity Inlet.
After an hour-long chase he was intercepted by Police and when breath-tested blew 0.17 - more than three times the legal limit.
Cairns water police Sergeant Andrew Ibell said the man had given officers a mouthful before trying to escape.
"He's done a runner. He tried to get away but his boat broke down," Sgt Ibell said.
"Then he tried to row the boat - fairly unsuccessfully."
"He was in sight of police the whole time," Sgt Ibell said. "The state he was in, he shouldn't have been anywhere near a boat."
The man was charged with operating a vessel under the influence of alcohol and will face court on December 9.

Dam, fine

Anglers should be aware that fishing without a permit in certain stocked dams in Queensland could attract a $225 fine under a new Fisheries Infringement Notice (FIN) system that came into effect last month.
The Department of Primary Industries and Fisheries (DPI&F) has 29 dams throughout Queensland listed as part of its Stocked Impoundment Permit (SIP) Scheme that requires anglers to buy a permit to fish in these waterways.
Senior fisheries management officer Anita Wohlsen said people could incur a fine of $225 for fishing without having purchased a permit and a $150 fine for not having their permit with them when fishing.
"These fines have been introduced to highlight the importance of anglers contributing to the restocking of the SIP dam that they fish in," Ms Wohlsen said.
"By buying a permit anglers benefit directly from their contribution as the money funds the continued work of their local stocking groups who buy fingerlings to stock the dams and carry out other activities to enhance their local fishery."
Permits can be purchased for a year for $35 or $31.50 for concession cardholders or for a week for $7.
"Purchasing SIPs is quick and easy and can be done online through the Queensland Government Gateway - www.qld.gov.au/fishing - before leaving home which gives anglers more time on the water," Ms Wohlsen said.
"To encourage people to buy online, the DPI&F is currently giving away 300 prize packs to anglers who purchase their permit through the website.
"The giveaways include cooler bags, tin mugs, back packs, caps, travel mugs, tote bags and water bottles. Twenty-five prizes are being given away each month until September 2006."
Terms and conditions for the competition are at www2.dpi.qld.gov.au/fishweb/17848.html. A random prize draw will be undertaken at the end of each month and the lucky winners will be notified soon after.
SIP permits can also be bought from local businesses near the dams. To locate one of these businesses or for more information on freshwater fishing contact the DPI&F Call Centre on 13 25 23.

Just deserts

First sailor: "Pass me the chocolate pudding, would you?"
Second sailor: "No way, Jose!"
First sailor: "Why not?"
Second sailor: "It's against regulations to help another sailor to dessert!"

Call for First Aid Radio Amateurs

St John Ambulance Victoria is looking for volunteer radio communications operators to boost its participation in the Melbourne 2006 Commonwealth Games.
The volunteers will be involved in staffing the new State Communications Centre at Waverley in Melbourne's east and operating radio networks for St John First Aiders.
Experience is welcome but not necessary, as training will be provided. If you're interested and would like to know more, call St John Ambulance State Communications Centre on 03 8588 8367, or send an email to Amateur Radio Victoria arv@amateurradio.com.au

Nurture the soul

"If you concentrate on finding whatever is good in every situation, you will discover that your life will suddenly be filled with gratitude, a feeling that nurtures the soul."
-Rabbi Harold Kushner

Fair Winds to Ye!
Cap'n Dan

Boat regos up, ramps, marinas needed: Industry report says

Queensland boating registrations are spiralling towards the magic 200,000 mark with the Boating Industry Association of Queensland predicting boat registrations will pass that by February or March next year.
BIAQ General Manager, Barry Hibberd, said Queensland boating registration numbers stood at 197,388 on October 31 and were increasing at an average of 760 per month. He said this growth pattern had been consistent over the past several years, with no sign of flattening out.
"At this rate I expect the 200,000th registration to be logged in February or March," Mr Hibberd said.
"The increasing number of boats on the water brings with it the need for more and better launch/retrieve facilities and marinas and the BIAQ is working with the State Government to ensure supply of facilities keeps pace with public demand," Mr Hibberd said.
"While the economy remains strong and Queensland's population continues to boom, there is no slowdown in sight of the growth in recreational boating."
"One of the main reasons given for interstate migration to Queensland is climate and boating goes hand in hand with outdoor activity generated by a good climate.
Mr Hibberd said the Gold Coast recently had outstripped Brisbane as the local authority with the largest boating population.
"Brisbane has 23,750 registered boats and Gold Coast has 24,581. While Brisbane previously had the biggest boating population, it has now been overtaken by the Gold Coast," he said.
Mr Hibberd said the boom in recreational boating in Queensland was good for the local and state economy, with the manufacture and sale of boats worth an estimated $1.4 billion a year. He said Queensland now was rapidly closing on New South Wales as Australia's premier boating state.
"As of June this last year, New South Wales had 203,393 registered boats," Mr Hibberd said. "While New South Wales has a population 2.7 million greater than Queensland, it has only 6000 more registered boats, a situation which is rapidly changing and being accelerated by interstate migration," he said.
Mr Hibberd said Queensland had 52.2 boats per 1000 head of population while New South Wales had only 31.7.

£1 Million Boat?

Havengore, the Port of London Authority's launch, which carried the coffin of Sir Winston Churchill along the River Thames to his final resting place in 1965, is for sale and expected to fetch £1 million.
During Churchill's state funeral, commentator, Richard Dimbleby, said: 'And so Havengore sailed into history...not even the Golden Hind had borne so great a man.'
The historic boat - which unimaginatively carried out hydrographic research in the Thames Estuary - will go under the hammer on 15 December.

Spanner crabs off-limit

Recreational and commercial fishers are reminded that Queensland's spanner crab closed season starts this month. This species will be off-limits from November 20 (tomorrow) until December 20 this year across all Queensland waters.
The Department of Primary Industries and Fisheries (DPI&F) senior fisheries management officer Mark Doohan said the annual closed season is aimed at protecting stocks of spanner crabs (Ranina ranina) during their peak spawning period.
"The closed season allows crabs to spawn and stocks to replenish to ensure there are healthy crab stocks into the future," Mr Doohan said.
"From December 21 fishers will again be able to take spanner crabs but everyone should remember that it is illegal to take egg-bearing female spanner crabs and any spanner crab less than 10 centimetres across the carapace in size," Mr Doohan said.

Nares Rock, off Bowen

Isolated Danger light not operational. Mariners are advised that Nares Rock light (Isolated Danger) Fl W(2)5s located in position latitude 19o46.2777S' longitude 148o21.5115E' is temporarily out of operation until further notice. Mariners are advised to proceed with caution when navigating within this area. Chart AUS 852.

What's happening?

"Some people make things happen, some watch things happen, while others wonder what has happened." -Proverb

Fair Winds to Ye!
Cap'n Dan

Interstate recreational boat licences

Current and valid recreational boat licences, excluding junior licences, issued by an interstate marine authority may be used in Queensland while they remain current. Maritime Safety Queensland (MSQ) recommends that if you move to Queensland that you obtain a Queensland recreational marine driver licence.
You can obtain a Queensland recreational marine driver licence by going to a Queensland Transport customer service centre with your current interstate recreational boat licence, an application form and $34.85.
You will then be issued with a confirmation report stating that you are the holder of a Queensland recreational marine driver licence.
Expired interstate licences will not be accepted for conversion to a Queensland licence. If your interstate licence has expired, you will need to either renew your licence with the relevant interstate marine authority or meet Queensland's recreational marine driver licence requirements.

Pirate 'mother ship' spotted

A 'mother ship' is believed to have been used to launch high-speed boats for several recent pirate attacks off Somalia.
Since November 5, when pirates tried unsuccessfully to attack a 440-foot cruise liner operated by Seabourn Cruise Lines, at least five other attacks have taken place, most of them northeast of Somalia, said Andrew Mwangura, program coordinator at the Kenyan Seafarer's Association.
Overall, he said, seven ships and crews have been captured in that section of the Indian Ocean.
Fishermen in the area spotted a "pirate mother ship" drifting off the Somali coast in July, on November 5 and earlier this week, Mwangura said. Only one mother ship has been spotted, but there may be more in existence. Officials think the smaller boats used in attacks are launched from the mother ship, he said.
Earlier this week, the director of the International Maritime Bureau, appealed to vessels off the Somali coasts to come to the aid of ships under attack in a statement citing an "alarming rise" in the number of piracy attacks in the area.
"At the very least," said Capt. Pottengal Mukundan, IMB director, "they can prevent the hijackers from taking these ships into Somali waters. Once the vessels have entered these waters, the chances of any law enforcement is negligible."
Twenty-five pirate attacks were reported in the past six months, the statement said. "In one incident, a ship was lured into danger by pirates firing bogus distress flares."
In the attempted cruise liner attack, pirates were in two boats and armed with machine guns and rocket-propelled grenades.
Thousands of merchant ships snake down the Somali coast to the Cape of Good Hope every year.
Some of the world's leading shipping bodies called on the U.N. to urgently address the issue.
The piracy watchdog has warned merchant ships to stay at least 200 nautical miles away from the Somali coast -- an admonition that has gone unheeded.
After two years of relative calm, 32 pirate attacks have been recorded since mid-March, including raids on ships carrying supplies for the U.N. World Food Program.
Rival warlords have ruled Somalia since dictator Mohammed Siad Barre was overthrown in 1991. Many of the warlords are believed to run gangs who smuggle drugs, weapons and people by road, sea and air around the region.
Piracy is a lucrative and growing offshoot of this trade.
On Wednesday, the U.N. Security Council criticized Somalia's squabbling government and urged rival factions to work to confront the chaos and piracy plaguing the lawless nation.
The council expressed "serious concern" about the recent wave of pirate attacks off the coast, and urged regional powers and international bodies to address the problem urgently.

Pirates blasted by sonic boom

The crew of a cruise ship attacked by pirates off the coast of Somalia used a sonic weapon to help ward off the attackers, the Miami-based Seabourn Cruise Line said Monday.
The device blasts ear-splitting noise in a directed beam.
The Seabourn Spirit escaped the attack also by shifting to high speed and changing course, the cruise line said.
The sonic device, known as a Long Range Acoustic Device, or LRAD, is a so-called "non-lethal weapon" developed for the military after the 2000 attack on the USS Cole in Yemen as a way to keep operators of small boats from approaching U.S. warships.
Makers of the device compare its shrill tone to that of smoke detectors, only much louder.

Prescription Drugs for Yacht Racing Safety Requirements

YA Special Regulation No. 4 (2005 - 2009) requires yachts competing in Cat. One & two events to carry specified prescription drugs. Recently YQ has received enquiries about how to obtain these drugs.
The required drugs can be obtained under QLD law using the provisions of the Health Act 1937 and its subsidiary Health (Drugs and Poisons) Regulation 1996. The regulations allow the issue and use of controlled and restricted drugs on boats in QLD. Copies of the applicable sections of the Health (Drugs and Poisons) Regulation 1996 are attached these are Sections 69 (2) (controlled drugs), 178 (2) (restricted drugs) and 264A (use of the drugs).
The key requirements are: a Doctor must sign the purchase order, the drugs are only for use on the boat, and the drugs must be appropriately secured when on board.
Further information or assistance is available from QLD Health Environmental Health Unit. Issued by the YA Offshore and Safety Committee.

Live bombs advice

Mariners are advised that military aircraft will be conducting air manoeuvres, air refuelling and live bombing within the Shoalwater Bay Training Area. In particular, Townsend Island will be active for live bombing.
Danger Area (INDIA) has been declared. The Marine Danger Area is all waters contained within the bounds of Macdonald Point Cape Manifold and listed in the full notice to mariners.
All civil watercraft are prohibited to enter the danger area from 1030 hours, 6 December 2005 to 1830 hours, 16 December 2005.Any person or vessel found within these danger areas 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. AUS Charts Affected: 367, 822.

Want relish with that?

'A little nonsense now and again is relished by the wisest men'

Fair Winds to Ye!
Cap'n Dan

State of the art survey ship visits Whitsunday Islands

Australia's state of the art ocean survey ship HMAS Melville anchored at Cid Harbour, Whitsunday Island this week
HMAS Melville is a hydrographic ship, used to chart the ocean. The ship also performs secondary roles in search and rescue, surveillance and disaster relief.
Two hydrographic ships (AGS) LEEUWIN and MELVILLE entered service in the year 2000. These ships are fitted with the latest multi-beam and single beam echo sounders plus towed and forward-looking sonar. Satellite and terrestrial position fixing equipment has been integrated into a complex survey system suite in these ships.
The Australian Hydrographic Service operates six specialist-surveying vessels and one Laser Airborne Depth Sounder (LADS) fitted in a Fokker F-27 aircraft. All units are based in Cairns, North Queensland.
Melville is named after Melville Island, north of Darwin, was launched midway through 1998 and built by NQEA in Cairns, North Queensland.
Melville enables the Australian Hydrographic Service to gather high quality hydrographic information at a much greater rate than the ships they replace. The ship is 71 metres in length, with a beam of 15 metres, and a draught of 5.4 metres, displaces 2,550 tonnes and is manned by a crew of 46 officers and sailors.
A state of the art Hydrographic Survey System (HSS) developed by STN Atlas will integrate accurate position information with data from a multi-beam echo sounder, towed side-scan sonar, single beam echo sounder and forward-looking sonar. The ships also carry three fully equipped nine metre Survey Motor Boats for surveys in waters not suitable for the ships themselves.
The ship is capable of carrying a helicopter to assist in survey operations.

FINS fines for fishers

An expansion of on-the-spot fines for fishing offences in Queensland is set to reduce the number of less serious fishing-related cases taken to court says Department of Primary Industries and Fisheries Deputy Director-General (Fisheries) Peter Neville.
The new fines or Fisheries Infringement Notices (FINS), introduced last week, would cover a wider range of less serious offences in both the commercial and recreational sectors.
"Last year, more than 200 fisheries cases were taken to court - under the new FIN system this number should be greatly reduced," Mr Neville said.
"Under the new system DPI&F Queensland Boating and Fisheries Patrol officers will have the ability to give out on-the-spot fines for a broader range of offences that currently have to be taken to court, even where the offender wishes to plead guilty," Mr Neville said
"The fines will still provide an effective deterrence but will spare individuals the need to appear in court.
"The new FINs will also allow QBFP officers to spend more time in the field by reducing the time needing to be spent on preparing court materials. This greater presence in the field is expected to translate to a higher level of deterrence to illegal activity.
"It is also expected that the new fines will allow for departmental legal staff to focus more heavily on the prosecution of serious fisheries offences rather than dealing with minor matters."
Under the new system, the amount of the fine increases depending on the seriousness of the offence. Fines for recreational offences, such as breaching bag limits, range from $75 to $375 depending on how many regulated fish are involved.
New and heavier fines for commercial offences will also be introduced as part of the expansion.
"Previously, fines focused primarily on offences commonly committed by recreational fishers. However, under the new system we are including fines for less serious breaches by commercial operators," Mr Neville said.
"Commercial operators will face fines double that imposed on recreational fishers because they stand to gain financially by inappropriate behaviour."
Offenders will have 28 days to pay their FIN-fine and once the money is paid, the matter is FIN-alised with no conviction recorded.
Anyone issued with a FIN still has the right to elect to have the case heard in court.
Each year about 300 FINs are issued to recreational and commercial fishers. More than 2000 FINs have been written since they were introduced in Queensland in 1999.
The FIN system expansion is enforced by amendments to the State Penalties Enforcement Regulation 2000.

Rocket grenade ship cabin

A pirate attack on a ship full of Western holidaymakers, including 22 Australians, has jolted East Africa's bomb-scarred tourist industry.
The luxury cruise liner Seabourn Spirit was attacked Saturday when pirates fired a rocket-propelled grenade and machine-guns.
The Seabourn Spirit was 160 kilometres off the east African country of Somalia when the attack took place early Saturday, says Seabourn Cruises spokesman David Dingle.
It has also reminded the world of the threat posed by Somalia, a rouge state awash with weapons.
Andrew Mwangura, program coordinator of the Kenyan Seafarers' Association, said the attack on the Seabourn Spirit could deal a severe blow to tourism in the region, especially Kenya - East Africa's most popular tourist destination.
The 440-foot Seabourn Spirit is an intimate size luxury mega-yacht. Aboard this 10,000 ton all-suite ship, you travel with no more than 208 well-versed voyagers serviced by 150 crew.
Seabourn Spirit arrived in Seychelles on Tuesday and is due in Cairns on January 22 next and should transit the Whitsunday Passage days later as she is due in Sydney on January 28.

Reef fin fish survey

The Department of Primary Industries and Fisheries began surveys of coral reef fish in the Swains and Mackay regions this week to collect information about the status of coral reef finfish stocks.
DPI&F fisheries biologist Dr Kerry Neil said the structured line catch surveys are a part of the department's Fisheries Long Term Monitoring Program.
"Long-term monitoring of the State's fisheries resources started in 1999, and the information to be collected in November will further expand the program", Dr Neil said.
The Long Term Monitoring Program contributes to assessing the effectiveness of fisheries management strategies in protecting and conserving the State's fisheries resources.
DPI&F biologists will oversee line catch activities, similar to those used by commercial operations but structured for monitoring purposes and operating independently of the commercial fishery.
"Biologists will be recording information on catch composition, the abundance of each species, size of all fish caught and the age of select target species, including coral trout and red throat emperor," she said.
"This monitoring is part of a larger long-term monitoring program for coral reef fish which relies on the support of the commercial fishing sector for data," Dr Neil said.
The program includes the gathering of data on by-catch in the fisheries through at-sea observers and additional information on the age structure of fish populations from frames collected from fishers.
Information from the program will be used to assess populations of Queensland's coral reef fish species, which are popular amongst commercial and recreational fishers alike.

Gratitude for what you do have

"Do not spoil what you have by desiring what you have not; remember that what you now have was once among the things you only hoped for."

Epicurus, Greek philosopher, BC 341-270

Fair Winds to Ye!
Cap'n Dan

Reel in a Barramundi, despite closed season

Anglers are reminded that Queensland's east coast barramundi closed season began on November 1 which means this species will be off-limits until February 1 next year, except in some stocked dams.
Department of Primary Industries and Fisheries (DPI&F) senior fisheries management officer Anita Wohlsen said the annual east coast closed season is aimed at protecting stocks of barramundi during their spawning period.
"The closed seasons allow fish to spawn and stocks to replenish to ensure there are healthy fish stocks for current and future generations," Ms Wohlsen said.
However, while barramundi will be off-limits in most areas, anglers wanting to catch the iconic fish can still throw in a line at one of Queensland's 18 stocked impoundments where a fisher is permitted to have one barramundi in their possession.
"The exemption recognises the importance of protecting wild barramundi stocks as well as giving fishers the enjoyment of catching stocked barramundi in an impoundment," Ms Wohlsen said.
Throwing in a line at some of these dams may also lead to catching more than just a fish. Anglers who buy their Stocked Impoundment Permits (SIP) online could pick up one of 300 prizes.
Stocked impoundment permits cost $35 a year or $7 for a week and must be purchased in order to fish in the stocked impoundments.
To be in the draw for the giveaways, fishers should buy their permits online at www.qld.gov.au/fishing
A random prize draw will be held at the end of each month during the next 12 month, starting November 9 and the lucky winners will be notified soon after.
Twenty-five prizes will be given away every month.
For more information about Queensland's fishing regulations visit the DPI&F Fishweb site at www.dpi.qld.gov.au/fishweb.

At Titanic Wreck Site

Adventurer extraordinaire Fran Capo, a stand-up comedienne, author, motivational speaker and the Worlds Fastest Talking Female, just set a new world record by becoming the first author to do a book signing at the wreck site of the most famous ship in the world - the Titanic.
Fran not only did a book signing for her book Adrenaline Adventures at the site of the famous wreck, but she did something that was long overdue. She became an ordained minister so she could honour the lost passengers of the Titanic.
While at the site, she offered the first-ever consecration of the remains, offering a universal maritime memorial invocation at the wreck site, a special prayer provided by the US Navy chaplain Puttler.
This prayer service was very important to her because it represented an opportunity to pay respects to the victims of that tragedy. It was the first rite she ever performed as an ordained minister, and one she will never forget.
"I as in a very small group of people, and I feel privileged, it was awesome" says Fran Capo.
"Titanic guru Ralph White, a member of the explorers club, related an interesting fact that even though everyone says the order when the iceberg hit was to revers the engine, all dials found o the wreck were in the "slow ahead" position.
"When Ralph was with Titanic 'discoverer' Bob Ballard, Ballard did not release the coordinates of the Titanic. Ralph read the coordinates upside down on a table, memorized it, and was later able to lead others to it. A fact he mentions in a movie, Titanica.
Russian scientific ship Kelydsyh departed the port of St. Johns for titanic wreck site 380 miles Southeast of Newfoundland at 41º44.0 N, 49 degrees, 46.0 West at a depth of 3,790 meters.
"I realized every one of passengers around me are millionaires many times over, yet the common bond is we all love adventure and are to be come part of a unique club - those who visited the Titanic. We are told that more people have gone to space than have visited the Titanic."
"Then we saw it, the bow of the ship. Just like in the movies. It was surreal. Here I was less than 15 feet from the bow with all its rusticles, and yet all I could think was, this was the ship of dreams. A ship that is the death bed of all those victims of man's stupidity- the stupidity of pushing a ship to hard, of not having enough life boats, of not seeing a iceberg in time. This is the famed Titanic."
"Then I said the prayer over the staircase. I figured this is where most of the souls on the ship passed; it would be a good place to do it. It was when I said the prayer, that the hugeness of this all hit me. As I said the prayer images of the passengers that night flashed through my head."
"The ride up I was thinking...this has got to be my greatest adventure. I was 2 1/2 miles down in the sea, a place few have gone. I did the first ever prayer down there. I did a book signing, I saw creatures that I didn't even know existed and I visited one of the most talked about ships of all time.

Report highlights tourism impact

Whitsunday Shire Council has commissioned a report that has revealed people are more likely to meet a visitor than a local in the area.
The Queensland Government office of Local Government and Planning's principal demographer, Allison Taylor, says the council wanted to learn more about the economic contribution of tourism and its social impact.
She says the report shows tourism is a significant industry that influences housing trends.
"It actually is a major employer, far more significant than agriculture, forestry, fishing or mining," she said.
"It obviously creates a lot of jobs for local people, in particular young people.
"There are a lot of visitors in the area and that causes a lot of turnover, a lot of mobility in the population."

All too common

A man on an inflatable lobster rescued a young girl who was blown out to sea on a set of inflatable teeth. A coast guard spokesman commented, "This sort of thing is all too common".

Fireworks at Airlie

Mariners are advised that a fireworks display will be held on the Airlie Beach foreshore adjacent to the Whitsunday Sailing Club. Fireworks are due to be set off from the point of Airlie Creek on Friday 4 November 2005 between 1930 hours and 2100 hours. AUS Charts Affected - 252, 253, 370

Harbour light established

Mariners are advised that the lighted Special Mark Buoy Fl.Y.2s has been permanently established at Mackay Harbour in approximate position latitude 21° 07.212'S, longitude 149°15.152'E. Charts Affected - AUS 249, 250, 823

Look on the bright side

"If you realized how powerful your thoughts are, you would never think a negative thought."

Fair Winds to Ye!
Cap'n Dan

Octopus not on menu for Airlie - too big!

The launch in 2003 of Paul Allen's 127m (416ft) "Octopus" secured its number one position as the world's largest yacht. Octopus is currently visiting in Australian waters.
Allen, called the "accidental zillionaire" in his unauthorized biography, also owns several other large yachts including Méduse which at only 198'10 feet is rate 72 in the top 100 megayachts. Méduse has previously visited Airlie and tied up at Able Point Marina.
Microsoft co-founder Paul Allen - worth US$20 billion according to Forbes, the third richest man in America and 7th in the world.
Octopus cost Allen over US$200 million and has permanent crew of 60, including several former Navy Seals employed in a security role.
It has two helicopters, seven boats, a 10-man submarine and a remote controlled vehicle for crawling on the Ocean floor. The submarine has the capacity to sleep eight people for up to two weeks underwater. A sixty-three foot tender docks in the transom.
Unfortunately, don't expect to see Octopus dock in Airlie. We don't have the facilities here. So we miss out in more ways that just not seeing her in port. We miss out on a lot of revenue.
On average, owners must spend a minimum of 10 percent of the purchase price every year to keep these yachts in good working condition and cover crew salaries. Therefore "Octopus" which cost Allen US$200 million requires a US$20 million annual budget.
It costs $250,000 to top off the fuel tanks.
Other yachts that have been around the Whitsunday Islands recently include the 231-foot Boadicea.
Eighty-year-old Reg Grundy really knows how to enjoy life. Boadicea which has a cinema and a stage, the Australian media baron has a passion for photography. It's interesting, considering the dark blue of his yacht's hull and her stylish lines make her a favourite of amateur yacht photographers. When he's not onboard, Grundy makes Boadicea available for charter for $420,000 per week.

Reef fish closure starts tomorrow

The first of the annual coral reef fin fish spawning closures starts tomorrow Thursday October 27 and will be enforced for the nine days through to November 4.
Department of Primary Industries and Fisheries district officer at Yeppoon, Mike Broadsmith, said the Queensland Boating and Fisheries Patrol had been inundated with inquiries from recreational and commercial fishers and charter boat operators regarding the new moon spawning periods.
"Obviously people want to do the right thing and respect the three nine-day spawning closures that have been put into place to protect the coral reef fin fish when they were deemed to be most vulnerable," Mr Broadsmith said.
The next closed period would be from November 25 to December 3 this year.
"The closure applies to all commercial, charter and recreational boaties and even if the reef fish were caught prior to the nine day closure, it is an offence to possess any reef fish species aboard the vessel.
People can still catch fish such as mackerel and estuarine fish species so long as they are not coral reef fin fish such as coral trout, cods and gropers, emperors, parrot fish, sweetlip, tropical snapper and sea perch.
A complete list of coral reef fin fish species together with Queensland's fishing regulations can be found on the Fishweb site at www.dpi.qld.gov.au/fishweb or from the DPI&F Call Centre on 13 25 23

Weather gauge

At the height of the gale, reported the Aberdeen Evening Express, the harbourmaster radioed a coastguard and asked him to estimate the wind speed. He replied he was sorry, but he didn't have a gauge. However, if it was any help, the wind had just blown his Land Rover off the cliff.

General safety obligation

As the fundamental principle of the Transport Operations, Marine Safety legislation, the general safety obligation transfers the responsibility of safety to owners and operators and encourages risk management. The Act imposes general safety obligations on:
* Ship designers, builders and surveyors about the condition of ships.
* Persons involved with the operation of a ship to operate it safely.
* Owners and masters about safety equipment.
All owners and operators, masters and crew members must ensure the ship is:
Safe, properly equipped and crewed and operated in a safe manner.
In short, these general safety obligations prohibit a ship from going to sea if it is not properly built and maintained, equipped, crewed and operated in accordance with its proposed operating environment.
The Act provides penalties for breach of safety obligations of up to $A37, 000 or one year imprisonment. Should the breach cause death or grievous bodily harm to a person, the penalty is up to $A375, 000 or imprisonment for two years.

Floating obstruction

Mariners are advised that a shipping container has been reported on 22 October 2005 drifting in the area of the Barwon Banks and about three quarters submerged. The reported position was latitude 26° 37.5'S longitude 153° 24.0'E. Mariners are advised to keep a good lookout and report any sightings. AUS Charts 235, 365

Seaforth Creek

Mariners are advised that the lighted buoy that was established at the entrance to Seaforth Creek to temporarily replace the lighted starboard lateral mark beacon has been removed. The lighted starboard mark beacon has not been re-established in position. Charts Affected - AUS 251, 824

Ideal experience?

"Idealism is what precedes experience; cynicism is what follows"

David Wolf

Fair Winds to Ye!
Cap'n Dan