H M Bark Endeavour homeward bound
The replica of the original H M Bark Endeavour will sail back to her home in Australia.
Launched in 1993 and commissioned in 1994, the nearly exact duplicate has sailed around the globe to great acclamation and a brush with Hollywood during the filming of Master and Commander.
As part of his research for Master and Commander, Director Peter Weir made two trips on the Endeavour, soaking up the atmosphere. According to Captain Chris Blake, the director was keen to muck in, climbing the rigging, steering the ship and doing the occasional night watch.
'He was travelling as a supernumerary so he didn't have to do anything but he wanted to have the full experience so he could make the film as authentic as possible,' Captain Blake said.
Though she has been wildly popular during her stay in the UK, Endeavour will leave Whitehaven on November 8th, and thus become the first ship ever to sail from the port directly to Australia.
The Australian Government wants the ship back and she will leave directly from Whitehaven after almost a decade sailing around the world.
Her departure from Whitehaven is a major coup for the town that is gearing up for one of the biggest events in its maritime history.
Visit organiser Gerard Richardson, said: "Whitehaven being chosen as the departing point for the vessel is the biggest honour the port could have asked for.
The epic voyage will take the replica of Captain Cook's ship about five-and-a-half-months. She is to become a floating museum alongside the Maritime Museum in Sydney, despite attempts by skipper Captain Chris Blake to keep her sailing in Europe.
Barra closure
The annual barramundi closed season for Queensland's east coast starts at midday next Monday (November 1) and runs until midday on February 1.
Department of Primary Industries and Fisheries education officer Karl Roebuck said the closed season is aimed at protecting barramundi stocks during their vulnerable spawning period.
"During these periods numbers of mature fish aggregate making them more susceptible to fishing pressures," Mr Roebuck said.
However, he said during the closed season one barramundi was allowed to be taken from 18 stocked dams in Queensland.
Mr Roebuck said this would balance the right for anglers to fish for barramundi in stocked dams while protecting wild barramundi stocks.
"There is no practical way to identify a stocked dam barramundi from a wild fish so the one take and possession limit is a compromise," he said.
Flathead fish survival project
Department of Primary Industries and Fisheries biologist Dr Ian Brown said the Fisheries Research and Development Corporation has provided $104, 299 for the 18 month study of survival of released line-caught flathead.
Dr Brown said the study into flathead survival follows the National survey of recreational fishing which estimated that about 13.5 million flathead of various species were caught by recreational fishers throughout Australia during 2000/01 and of this total 6 million (almost 45 percent) were released.
Nationally, flathead accounted for the greatest numbers of fish of any group caught by recreational fishers.
Privy summit
The World Toilet Organization wants you to know that "The Societal Impact of Toilets" will be discussed at the World Toilet Summit next month in Beijing.
JFK's boat busted
Federal drug agents have seized "Flash II", once owned by a young John F. Kennedy, alleging its current owner purchased the vessel with proceeds from selling marijuana.
According to an affidavit filed in U.S. District Court in Boston, the Star Class sloop built in 1930 and currently owned by Gregory Olaf Anderson constitutes property derived from the sale of narcotics distribution and is subject to government forfeiture.
Federal agents learned Anderson was involved in drug trafficking in 1996 and used proceeds from marijuana sales to purchase the boat Kennedy had once used in sailing races off Hyannis.
The President and his brother, Joseph Kennedy, purchased the Olympic-class sailboat in 1934. President Kennedy sold the boat in 1942, just before shipping out to the Pacific theatre during World War II, where he commanded the PT-109.
Anderson previously rejected a bid of $800,000, sensing he could get a higher price, according to the agents.
Match making plan
Bermuda is spearheading a campaign to have women's keelboat sailing changed from fleet to match racing in the Olympics.
The primary reason for such a move, explained president of Bermuda Sailing Association (BSA) Tim Patton, is that it would significantly reduce participant expenses thereby opening up competitive sailing to women in many more countries.
"Match racing requires much less by way of equipment for the competitors."
"They would need a pair of sailing gloves and a bottle of sun block and they could go from event to event and sail in whatever class of boat there is at that location."
Eureka
"Everyone who has ever taken a shower has had an idea. It's the person who gets out of the shower, dries off, and does something about it that makes a difference."
Fair winds to Ye!
Cap'n Dan
Wednesday, October 27, 2004
Wednesday, October 20, 2004
Babyboomers Sea Change fuels labour shortage
The Queensland boating industry is seeking apprentices to satisfy the labour demand created by a protracted recreational boating boom.
The Boating Industry Association of Queensland said a shortage of skilled technicians and tradesmen had been created by a 10-year boom in recreational boating.
BIAQ General Manager, Barry Hibberd, said the short term problem was increasing workload in service centres with the onset of summer.
"As the number of boats and engines requiring regular servicing has increased throughout Queensland, the number of trained technicians has not kept pace," Mr Hibberd said.
"With the traditional Christmas holiday season fast approaching, workshops are starting to feel the pressure of the extra workload," he said.
Mr Hibberd said the shortage also would cause long term difficulty in Queensland.
"With a net migration of 60,000 people into Queensland each year - predominantly baby boomers doing a sea change and looking at a lifestyle on the water - this issue is not going to improve, unless it is addressed now," he said.
"At the end of August 2004, there were 185,620 registered vessels in
Queensland, an increase of 64% since 1994. That's an incredible rate of growth, in fact, twice the rate of population increase."
BIAQ has asked its members to employ more apprentices to be trained for the future, when assessing workplace requirements for 2005.
Award "first for Tourism"
An Award for workers employed in the Whitsunday Marine Tourism industry is a first for the industry says Deb Lewis, Executive Secretary of the Whitsunday Charter Boat Industry Association.
"The new Award is the beginning of a long term viable tourism industry, the first of its type in Australia," The Guardian was told this week
"The Whitsunday Charter Boat Industry Association has worked closely with unions and government to insure the new award will provide a baseline figure for all seagoing employees working from Whitsunday ports" Ms Lewis said.
The Whitsunday Charter Boat Industry Award - State is now the subject of several information meetings to inform workers of the impact the award will have.
This "proposed" award applies to all employers operating vessels other than fishing boats where charters/tours originate commence between the 20th and 21st parallel of south latitude.
Included in the agreement are 'key features' such as; Daily rates of pay, pay by charter, length of charter as defined by WCBIA Code of Practice, Permanent and Casual staff catered for and the Introduction of casual rate loading. Whilst at sea, every employee shall be provided with proper meals, and a bed as defined under the survey requirements of Maritime Safety Queensland. Except like this sailor you usually prefer to sleep on deck.
Training and development provisions are included to ensure staff has a career path available as they play an integral part in the long term implementation of the award.
"Employees are encouraged to attend the information meetings and to make submissions that are necessary to grow the award process," Ms Lewis added.
Industry issues
The Whitsunday Charter Boat Industry Association (WCBIA) successfully negotiated through Maritime Safety Queensland to develop a set of boarding procedures regarding government agency boardings of ships. This was a direct result of "blitzes" that took place in the region that caused distress to some passengers and crew.
Boarding Procedures have been accepted by both government agencies and operators, and are included in the operational procedures on board vessels, particularly the overnight charter vessels.
The WCBIA, and with the endorsement of WLMAC has commenced working on a draft Management Plan for Hill Inlet, which will most likely flow over to Whitehaven Beach and Chance Bay. The WCBIA is currently drafting a needs survey to go to members and their crew as part of industry consultation.
Free Seminar
Participate in this Free Seminar as part of QMA's commitment to best practice standards in the Marine Industry.
Owners, Operator, Managers, Skippers and Crew are invited to a Free Professional Development Seminar on Occupational Health and Safety, Tuesday evening 7.00 pm 26th October at the Marine Club, Altmann Ave, Cannonvale.
This seminar, presented by Katherine Sellers and Des Ward, will highlight changes to legislation and duty of care responsibilities with service of alcohol and risk assessment for the marine industry.
Teamwork OK!
I seem to recall that a U.S. advertising executive once wrote something like, "A big team is not always the best team. One can accomplish a lot with a small group if they're the right group. Look what Jesus Christ did with a team of just 12!"
While Waterfront does not have the whole universe to think about as that famous team and its leader did, the point is the same; if it's the right small team, it will be far more effective than a less-committed quarter-million.
Hamilton Island SAR
SAR is Search And Rescue, so Mariners are advised that a search and rescue exercise be conducted on Wednesday 27th October. The exercise will involve liferaft dropping and hoisting operations from a helicopter and will be carried out near the seaward end of the Hamilton Island airstrip and Dent Island between 1000 hours and 1400 hours.
A safety vessel will assist with the recovery of dropped equipment. Orange and white pyrotechnic smoke markers will be dropped. Charts affected: AUS 252, 253
Unforgettable proverbial
"A smooth sea never made a skilled mariner."
--English proverb
Fair winds to Ye!
Cap'n Dan
The Queensland boating industry is seeking apprentices to satisfy the labour demand created by a protracted recreational boating boom.
The Boating Industry Association of Queensland said a shortage of skilled technicians and tradesmen had been created by a 10-year boom in recreational boating.
BIAQ General Manager, Barry Hibberd, said the short term problem was increasing workload in service centres with the onset of summer.
"As the number of boats and engines requiring regular servicing has increased throughout Queensland, the number of trained technicians has not kept pace," Mr Hibberd said.
"With the traditional Christmas holiday season fast approaching, workshops are starting to feel the pressure of the extra workload," he said.
Mr Hibberd said the shortage also would cause long term difficulty in Queensland.
"With a net migration of 60,000 people into Queensland each year - predominantly baby boomers doing a sea change and looking at a lifestyle on the water - this issue is not going to improve, unless it is addressed now," he said.
"At the end of August 2004, there were 185,620 registered vessels in
Queensland, an increase of 64% since 1994. That's an incredible rate of growth, in fact, twice the rate of population increase."
BIAQ has asked its members to employ more apprentices to be trained for the future, when assessing workplace requirements for 2005.
Award "first for Tourism"
An Award for workers employed in the Whitsunday Marine Tourism industry is a first for the industry says Deb Lewis, Executive Secretary of the Whitsunday Charter Boat Industry Association.
"The new Award is the beginning of a long term viable tourism industry, the first of its type in Australia," The Guardian was told this week
"The Whitsunday Charter Boat Industry Association has worked closely with unions and government to insure the new award will provide a baseline figure for all seagoing employees working from Whitsunday ports" Ms Lewis said.
The Whitsunday Charter Boat Industry Award - State is now the subject of several information meetings to inform workers of the impact the award will have.
This "proposed" award applies to all employers operating vessels other than fishing boats where charters/tours originate commence between the 20th and 21st parallel of south latitude.
Included in the agreement are 'key features' such as; Daily rates of pay, pay by charter, length of charter as defined by WCBIA Code of Practice, Permanent and Casual staff catered for and the Introduction of casual rate loading. Whilst at sea, every employee shall be provided with proper meals, and a bed as defined under the survey requirements of Maritime Safety Queensland. Except like this sailor you usually prefer to sleep on deck.
Training and development provisions are included to ensure staff has a career path available as they play an integral part in the long term implementation of the award.
"Employees are encouraged to attend the information meetings and to make submissions that are necessary to grow the award process," Ms Lewis added.
Industry issues
The Whitsunday Charter Boat Industry Association (WCBIA) successfully negotiated through Maritime Safety Queensland to develop a set of boarding procedures regarding government agency boardings of ships. This was a direct result of "blitzes" that took place in the region that caused distress to some passengers and crew.
Boarding Procedures have been accepted by both government agencies and operators, and are included in the operational procedures on board vessels, particularly the overnight charter vessels.
The WCBIA, and with the endorsement of WLMAC has commenced working on a draft Management Plan for Hill Inlet, which will most likely flow over to Whitehaven Beach and Chance Bay. The WCBIA is currently drafting a needs survey to go to members and their crew as part of industry consultation.
Free Seminar
Participate in this Free Seminar as part of QMA's commitment to best practice standards in the Marine Industry.
Owners, Operator, Managers, Skippers and Crew are invited to a Free Professional Development Seminar on Occupational Health and Safety, Tuesday evening 7.00 pm 26th October at the Marine Club, Altmann Ave, Cannonvale.
This seminar, presented by Katherine Sellers and Des Ward, will highlight changes to legislation and duty of care responsibilities with service of alcohol and risk assessment for the marine industry.
Teamwork OK!
I seem to recall that a U.S. advertising executive once wrote something like, "A big team is not always the best team. One can accomplish a lot with a small group if they're the right group. Look what Jesus Christ did with a team of just 12!"
While Waterfront does not have the whole universe to think about as that famous team and its leader did, the point is the same; if it's the right small team, it will be far more effective than a less-committed quarter-million.
Hamilton Island SAR
SAR is Search And Rescue, so Mariners are advised that a search and rescue exercise be conducted on Wednesday 27th October. The exercise will involve liferaft dropping and hoisting operations from a helicopter and will be carried out near the seaward end of the Hamilton Island airstrip and Dent Island between 1000 hours and 1400 hours.
A safety vessel will assist with the recovery of dropped equipment. Orange and white pyrotechnic smoke markers will be dropped. Charts affected: AUS 252, 253
Unforgettable proverbial
"A smooth sea never made a skilled mariner."
--English proverb
Fair winds to Ye!
Cap'n Dan
Wednesday, October 13, 2004
Play it safe with crocs, stingers and sharks this summer
AS the weather heats up in North Queensland and water-based activities become more popular, Department of Primary Industries and Fisheries officers have issued a reminder for people to take the necessary precautions to make your activities as enjoyable and safe as possible.
DPI&F district officer Peter Kirkby said he had received a report that the annual migration of tiger sharks had commenced.
"Every year, tiger sharks follow the run of mackerel schools heading to warmer waters," he said.
"Some of these sharks can be quite large and can head to in-shore waters as they follow the mackerel to their spawning locations.
"Boaties and those swimming in unpatrolled areas should be aware of the movement of these sharks."
Mr Kirkby said bathers should swim in patrolled areas because summer was also marine stinger season.
"And of course, there is also the danger of crocodiles for swimmers who venture into estuarine areas," he said.
Mr Kirkby said sightings of large sharks should be reported to the DPI&F. He said a tiger shark had been spotted by a boatie this week.
"These sharks will move on once the mackerel are gone. They are a part of life in the tropics and, as always, boaties and bathers should make safety a priority to ensure their recreation is enjoyable as possible," he said.
Enjoy your time on and in the water this summer. Remember, onshore there are snakes, spiders, suits, car filled roads and landlubbers!
Record official!
The World Sailing Speed Record Council have announced the ratification of a new World Record for; Outright Marseilles to Carthage. The "Transmed Record" was set by Orange II; a 120-foot Catamaran sailed by Bruno Peyron and a crew of 10 on 24th and 25th September 2004. Time was 17 hours 56 minutes 33 seconds to sail 458 nautical miles at an average speed of 25.53 knots.
Hooked on fishy feelings
US based campaign industry organisation 'People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals' (PETA) employ over one hundred people including a fish empathy project manager.
Militant vegetarians, PETA is best known as the group wanting the circus to come to town without any animals.
Meanwhile a PETA movie review reads; "Shark Tale sends a heart-warming message about compassion for all animals. Lenny, played by Jack Black, is a vegetarian shark who saves the lives of worms, shrimp, and any other animal who swims his way.
"In less than two hours, Lenny convinces his family and everyone who watches Shark Tale that fish are friends, not food.
"PETA hopes that Lenny will inspire a generation of children to follow his vegetarian example by keeping fish off their plates-and in the ocean where they belong.
The donation driven group prove they are no dead duck and claim an historic victory for animals when California Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger signed a bill that bans the force-feeding of ducks and geese in the production of foie gras pate.
Rotary Boat Show
How does the Oceanic Airlie Beach Rotary Boat Show, show its affection?
It will hug the shore in June 2005.
School ship sold
The Australian Maritime Collage's long serving training vessel, WYUNA, has been sold. Built over 50 years ago in Glasgow, TV WYUNA has been the AMC's flagship and principal training vessel since AMC first opened its doors in 1980.
AMC acquired WYUNA from the Port Phillip Sea Pilots, and her profile represents a smaller version of the Royal Yacht Britannia.
The sale became necessary due to the relatively high operational and maintenance costs compared to the reduced need for seagoing training in this day and age of simulation/computer training techniques said AMC.
On 19 October 2000, the Australian Maritime College vessel Wyuna was being used to train students in night pilotage exercises in the Tamar River.
The official report says "after clearing North West Bank beacon, the master became disorientated and confused North West Bank Beacon for Shear Rock Beacon. He instructed the student on the con to set a course to take Wyuna clear of the river, but the vessel was set on course for Shear Rock. At 2305, Wyuna struck Shear Rock."
"The master stopped the engines and checked the electronic chart display, which showed the vessel on Shear Rock. The tide was setting the ship across the rock but, about 2 minutes later, the ship was afloat once more, being carried northward across the channel.
"The master let go the port anchor with a shackle1 and a half of chain (A shackle is about 27 metres) but this did not arrest the ship's drift and, at 2315, the ship grounded once more, on Middle Bank. The chief engineer reported that there was no apparent damage to machinery, so the master used the engines to prevent the ship from going further aground and, at 2317, Wyuna steamed back into the channel.
"No oil or water was lost from the ship but numbers 10 and 11 double bottom tanks were making water through sprung seams and rivets.
WYUNA has been purchased by a Western Australian mining operator, for the purpose of providing accommodation for workers, alongside at the mine's port.
Ahoy Cap'n
I was dismayed while reading an Australian journalist's article "About Sailing" on the Athens Olympic website to find the Mistral class described as "boardsailing".
This is extremely frustrating as the organisations and committees of both international and Australian windsurfing all agreed that our sport was WINDSURFING and not "boardsailing" several years ago.
This was discussed and agreed to before the Sydney Olympics, but the message still doesn't seem to have been understood by the Australian sports media.
The International Sailing Federation call the sport windsurfing in all their press releases, on their website and in the Olympic sailing instructions.
Why do journalists on prestigious newspapers continue to refer to our sport as bored-sailing?
Michael McGrath, Editor, Freesail - Australia's Xtreme Windsports Magazine
Lagoon Rock, Whitehaven Bay
Mariners are advised that the lighted West Cardinal Mark beacon Q(9)15s on Lagoon Rock in Whitehaven Bay in the Whitsunday Group has been reported unlit. Charts affected: AUS 252, 253, 824, 825
Believe it
"The creed you really believe is spoken, not by your lips, but by your life."
Fair winds to Ye!
Cap'n Dan
AS the weather heats up in North Queensland and water-based activities become more popular, Department of Primary Industries and Fisheries officers have issued a reminder for people to take the necessary precautions to make your activities as enjoyable and safe as possible.
DPI&F district officer Peter Kirkby said he had received a report that the annual migration of tiger sharks had commenced.
"Every year, tiger sharks follow the run of mackerel schools heading to warmer waters," he said.
"Some of these sharks can be quite large and can head to in-shore waters as they follow the mackerel to their spawning locations.
"Boaties and those swimming in unpatrolled areas should be aware of the movement of these sharks."
Mr Kirkby said bathers should swim in patrolled areas because summer was also marine stinger season.
"And of course, there is also the danger of crocodiles for swimmers who venture into estuarine areas," he said.
Mr Kirkby said sightings of large sharks should be reported to the DPI&F. He said a tiger shark had been spotted by a boatie this week.
"These sharks will move on once the mackerel are gone. They are a part of life in the tropics and, as always, boaties and bathers should make safety a priority to ensure their recreation is enjoyable as possible," he said.
Enjoy your time on and in the water this summer. Remember, onshore there are snakes, spiders, suits, car filled roads and landlubbers!
Record official!
The World Sailing Speed Record Council have announced the ratification of a new World Record for; Outright Marseilles to Carthage. The "Transmed Record" was set by Orange II; a 120-foot Catamaran sailed by Bruno Peyron and a crew of 10 on 24th and 25th September 2004. Time was 17 hours 56 minutes 33 seconds to sail 458 nautical miles at an average speed of 25.53 knots.
Hooked on fishy feelings
US based campaign industry organisation 'People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals' (PETA) employ over one hundred people including a fish empathy project manager.
Militant vegetarians, PETA is best known as the group wanting the circus to come to town without any animals.
Meanwhile a PETA movie review reads; "Shark Tale sends a heart-warming message about compassion for all animals. Lenny, played by Jack Black, is a vegetarian shark who saves the lives of worms, shrimp, and any other animal who swims his way.
"In less than two hours, Lenny convinces his family and everyone who watches Shark Tale that fish are friends, not food.
"PETA hopes that Lenny will inspire a generation of children to follow his vegetarian example by keeping fish off their plates-and in the ocean where they belong.
The donation driven group prove they are no dead duck and claim an historic victory for animals when California Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger signed a bill that bans the force-feeding of ducks and geese in the production of foie gras pate.
Rotary Boat Show
How does the Oceanic Airlie Beach Rotary Boat Show, show its affection?
It will hug the shore in June 2005.
School ship sold
The Australian Maritime Collage's long serving training vessel, WYUNA, has been sold. Built over 50 years ago in Glasgow, TV WYUNA has been the AMC's flagship and principal training vessel since AMC first opened its doors in 1980.
AMC acquired WYUNA from the Port Phillip Sea Pilots, and her profile represents a smaller version of the Royal Yacht Britannia.
The sale became necessary due to the relatively high operational and maintenance costs compared to the reduced need for seagoing training in this day and age of simulation/computer training techniques said AMC.
On 19 October 2000, the Australian Maritime College vessel Wyuna was being used to train students in night pilotage exercises in the Tamar River.
The official report says "after clearing North West Bank beacon, the master became disorientated and confused North West Bank Beacon for Shear Rock Beacon. He instructed the student on the con to set a course to take Wyuna clear of the river, but the vessel was set on course for Shear Rock. At 2305, Wyuna struck Shear Rock."
"The master stopped the engines and checked the electronic chart display, which showed the vessel on Shear Rock. The tide was setting the ship across the rock but, about 2 minutes later, the ship was afloat once more, being carried northward across the channel.
"The master let go the port anchor with a shackle1 and a half of chain (A shackle is about 27 metres) but this did not arrest the ship's drift and, at 2315, the ship grounded once more, on Middle Bank. The chief engineer reported that there was no apparent damage to machinery, so the master used the engines to prevent the ship from going further aground and, at 2317, Wyuna steamed back into the channel.
"No oil or water was lost from the ship but numbers 10 and 11 double bottom tanks were making water through sprung seams and rivets.
WYUNA has been purchased by a Western Australian mining operator, for the purpose of providing accommodation for workers, alongside at the mine's port.
Ahoy Cap'n
I was dismayed while reading an Australian journalist's article "About Sailing" on the Athens Olympic website to find the Mistral class described as "boardsailing".
This is extremely frustrating as the organisations and committees of both international and Australian windsurfing all agreed that our sport was WINDSURFING and not "boardsailing" several years ago.
This was discussed and agreed to before the Sydney Olympics, but the message still doesn't seem to have been understood by the Australian sports media.
The International Sailing Federation call the sport windsurfing in all their press releases, on their website and in the Olympic sailing instructions.
Why do journalists on prestigious newspapers continue to refer to our sport as bored-sailing?
Michael McGrath, Editor, Freesail - Australia's Xtreme Windsports Magazine
Lagoon Rock, Whitehaven Bay
Mariners are advised that the lighted West Cardinal Mark beacon Q(9)15s on Lagoon Rock in Whitehaven Bay in the Whitsunday Group has been reported unlit. Charts affected: AUS 252, 253, 824, 825
Believe it
"The creed you really believe is spoken, not by your lips, but by your life."
Fair winds to Ye!
Cap'n Dan
Wednesday, October 06, 2004
Calling on fishers to monitor mackerel stocks
Commercial and recreational fishers are being encouraged to assist the Department of Primary Industries and Fisheries (DPI&F) with its monitoring of Spanish and spotted mackerel stocks.
The DPI&F Long-Term Monitoring Program has been expanded to ensure the sustainability of these popular commercial and recreational fish species.
As its name suggests, the program collects information about fish stocks over a number of years to assess the effectiveness of fisheries management strategies in protecting and conserving fisheries resources.
DPI&F fisheries biologist Jonathan Staunton-Smith said the expanded sampling program for mackerel would build on information from previous monitoring projects as well as two important Fisheries Research and Development Corporation-funded projects.
"The Spanish and spotted mackerel program is being expanded to collect information on the size, sex and age structure of east coast mackerel stocks by examining commercial and recreational catches," Dr Staunton-Smith said.
As part of this program, recreational fishers will be asked to provide researchers with intact fish frames (not gilled and gutted) to help them collect the necessary information from each fish.
The same information will be obtained for commercial catches at seafood processors and wholesalers and from cooperating commercial fishers.
Dr Staunton-Smith said like many other species, length of mackerel on its own was not a good indicator of age.
However, Dr Staunton-Smith said the age of the fish could be determined from the otoliths or ear bones.
"In mackerel, length is not a good indicator of age because there is a large degree of variability in their individual growth rates and females also grow faster than males," he said.
"Determining the age distribution of Spanish and spotted mackerel stocks along the east coast will help assess current management practices, which include recent changes to recreational size and possession limits and a cap on annual commercial catches."
Dr Staunton-Smith said DPI&F scientists would be contacting recreational and commercial fishers, processors and bait and tackle shops asking for their assistance.
"We will be relying on the assistance of these groups to collect samples all along the east coast between Cooktown and Tweed Heads," he said.
"The more information we gather, the greater certainty we have in ensuring Spanish and spotted mackerel stocks are maintained at sustainable levels for future generations of Queenslanders."
Record official!
The World Sailing Speed Record Council have announced the ratification of a new World Record for; Outright Marseilles to Carthage. The "Transmed Record" was set by Orange II, a 120-foot Catamaran sailed by Bruno Peyron and a crew of 10 on 24th and 25th September 2004. Time was 17 hours 56 minutes 33 seconds to sail 458 nautical miles at an average speed of 25.53 knots.
Fishy feelings
People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals employs a fish empathy project manager.
Fishing fines and forfeit
Two more men have been fined $12000 for commercial fishing offences in the State's far north bringing the total to more than $90,000 in fines handed down in north Queensland courts during the past two months.
The Department of Primary Industries and Fisheries says the fines send a strong message to commercial fishing operators.
On Monday (October 4), Tho Le, 39, from Wynnum in Brisbane, was convicted and fined a total of $9500 in the Cairns Magistrates Court for six offences.
These included failing to keep log book records, failing to immediately produce licence documents, possessing 174 under-sized blue swimmer crabs, possessing 24 under-sized Moreton Bay bugs, possessing one under-sized spotted mackerel and a quantity of non-permitted fish.
Mr Le was also ordered to pay $63.20 court costs and the illegal catches were seized and forfeited.
On a separate date he also allowed assistant fisher Cuc Van Le, 29, from Runcorn Heights, Brisbane, to take 174 under-sized blue swimmer crabs and to possess 24 under-sized Moreton Bay Bugs.
Cuc Van Le was convicted and fined $2500 in the Cooktown Magistrates Court on August 31 for these offences.
Cairns-based Department of Primary Industries and Fisheries officers were conducting routine inspections at cold store premises when they detected the illegal catches.
These recent convictions follow $45000 in fines handed down in the Cairns Magistrates Court in September for separate trawling offences.
DPI&F district manager Bob Koch said the recent spate of heavy fines highlighted how seriously the courts took fishing offences.
"Fisheries regulations are in place for a reason and that is to protect and conserve Queensland's fish stocks," he said.
"These heavy fines should act as a deterrent not only to the fishers involved but to industry as a whole.
"While most operators do the right thing, there are still some out there who break the law. These fines show this sort of action will not be tolerated."
Mr Koch said the forfeiture of the unlawful catch was a further deterrent to people who tried to gain financially from breaking fishing regulations.
Maximum exposure
News Item: "Several hundred animal rights activists -- some in their underwear, others topless -- marched through the streets of . . ."
Sailing Club AGM
The AGM will be on Sunday 31 October 2004 commencing at 10 A.M.
Fruit for thought
European Union bureaucrats classified carrots as a fruit in a directive, apparently because the Portuguese use carrots to make jam, and anything used to make jam, in their eyes, must be a fruit.
Notice to Mariners
List of Lights - Edward Island - Light move light to 20 15.02 S 149 10.44 E. Chart affected AUS 825
"All explorers are seeking something they have lost. It is seldom that they find it, and more seldom still that the attainment brings them greater happiness than the quest."
-- Arthur C. Clarke
Fair winds to Ye!
Cap'n Dan
Commercial and recreational fishers are being encouraged to assist the Department of Primary Industries and Fisheries (DPI&F) with its monitoring of Spanish and spotted mackerel stocks.
The DPI&F Long-Term Monitoring Program has been expanded to ensure the sustainability of these popular commercial and recreational fish species.
As its name suggests, the program collects information about fish stocks over a number of years to assess the effectiveness of fisheries management strategies in protecting and conserving fisheries resources.
DPI&F fisheries biologist Jonathan Staunton-Smith said the expanded sampling program for mackerel would build on information from previous monitoring projects as well as two important Fisheries Research and Development Corporation-funded projects.
"The Spanish and spotted mackerel program is being expanded to collect information on the size, sex and age structure of east coast mackerel stocks by examining commercial and recreational catches," Dr Staunton-Smith said.
As part of this program, recreational fishers will be asked to provide researchers with intact fish frames (not gilled and gutted) to help them collect the necessary information from each fish.
The same information will be obtained for commercial catches at seafood processors and wholesalers and from cooperating commercial fishers.
Dr Staunton-Smith said like many other species, length of mackerel on its own was not a good indicator of age.
However, Dr Staunton-Smith said the age of the fish could be determined from the otoliths or ear bones.
"In mackerel, length is not a good indicator of age because there is a large degree of variability in their individual growth rates and females also grow faster than males," he said.
"Determining the age distribution of Spanish and spotted mackerel stocks along the east coast will help assess current management practices, which include recent changes to recreational size and possession limits and a cap on annual commercial catches."
Dr Staunton-Smith said DPI&F scientists would be contacting recreational and commercial fishers, processors and bait and tackle shops asking for their assistance.
"We will be relying on the assistance of these groups to collect samples all along the east coast between Cooktown and Tweed Heads," he said.
"The more information we gather, the greater certainty we have in ensuring Spanish and spotted mackerel stocks are maintained at sustainable levels for future generations of Queenslanders."
Record official!
The World Sailing Speed Record Council have announced the ratification of a new World Record for; Outright Marseilles to Carthage. The "Transmed Record" was set by Orange II, a 120-foot Catamaran sailed by Bruno Peyron and a crew of 10 on 24th and 25th September 2004. Time was 17 hours 56 minutes 33 seconds to sail 458 nautical miles at an average speed of 25.53 knots.
Fishy feelings
People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals employs a fish empathy project manager.
Fishing fines and forfeit
Two more men have been fined $12000 for commercial fishing offences in the State's far north bringing the total to more than $90,000 in fines handed down in north Queensland courts during the past two months.
The Department of Primary Industries and Fisheries says the fines send a strong message to commercial fishing operators.
On Monday (October 4), Tho Le, 39, from Wynnum in Brisbane, was convicted and fined a total of $9500 in the Cairns Magistrates Court for six offences.
These included failing to keep log book records, failing to immediately produce licence documents, possessing 174 under-sized blue swimmer crabs, possessing 24 under-sized Moreton Bay bugs, possessing one under-sized spotted mackerel and a quantity of non-permitted fish.
Mr Le was also ordered to pay $63.20 court costs and the illegal catches were seized and forfeited.
On a separate date he also allowed assistant fisher Cuc Van Le, 29, from Runcorn Heights, Brisbane, to take 174 under-sized blue swimmer crabs and to possess 24 under-sized Moreton Bay Bugs.
Cuc Van Le was convicted and fined $2500 in the Cooktown Magistrates Court on August 31 for these offences.
Cairns-based Department of Primary Industries and Fisheries officers were conducting routine inspections at cold store premises when they detected the illegal catches.
These recent convictions follow $45000 in fines handed down in the Cairns Magistrates Court in September for separate trawling offences.
DPI&F district manager Bob Koch said the recent spate of heavy fines highlighted how seriously the courts took fishing offences.
"Fisheries regulations are in place for a reason and that is to protect and conserve Queensland's fish stocks," he said.
"These heavy fines should act as a deterrent not only to the fishers involved but to industry as a whole.
"While most operators do the right thing, there are still some out there who break the law. These fines show this sort of action will not be tolerated."
Mr Koch said the forfeiture of the unlawful catch was a further deterrent to people who tried to gain financially from breaking fishing regulations.
Maximum exposure
News Item: "Several hundred animal rights activists -- some in their underwear, others topless -- marched through the streets of . . ."
Sailing Club AGM
The AGM will be on Sunday 31 October 2004 commencing at 10 A.M.
Fruit for thought
European Union bureaucrats classified carrots as a fruit in a directive, apparently because the Portuguese use carrots to make jam, and anything used to make jam, in their eyes, must be a fruit.
Notice to Mariners
List of Lights - Edward Island - Light move light to 20 15.02 S 149 10.44 E. Chart affected AUS 825
"All explorers are seeking something they have lost. It is seldom that they find it, and more seldom still that the attainment brings them greater happiness than the quest."
-- Arthur C. Clarke
Fair winds to Ye!
Cap'n Dan
Tuesday, September 28, 2004
Aussie Sonar sailors fifth at Paralympics
Sydney 2000 Gold medallist, Australian Jamie Dunross and his crew of Jeff Milligan and Colin Harrison had to be contented with fifth place, finishing their regatta with an eighth place in the final race, sailed in light to moderate south-westerly breezes.
Israeli Dor Cohen and his crew were dominant throughout the Paralympics in the three-person Sonar class and took the Gold by a persuasive nine points.
The Netherlands crew won Silver, with the USA's team taking Bronze, a further nine points in arrears.
Winning four of the nine races sailed the Israeli crew deserved Gold and only finished outside a top four place on one occasion. Following his win, Cohen commented, 'we are very happy for ourselves and for Israel. The flag of our country is up now.'
For Jamie Dunross and his crew from Western Australia, it was shattered dreams. Dunross, in particular, wanted that Gold for the skipper whom he won Gold with in Sydney, Noel Robbins, who was tragically killed in a car accident early last year.
The three showed moments of brilliance and at one stage were second placed, but it was not to be, however they had some good results including two second places, but did not sail consistently well as the top three did.
No free ride
AQIS - the Australian Quarantine and Inspection Service - has published a new brochure for cruising yachtsmen to help reduce the risk of introducing exotic marine pests.
Stowaways such as black-striped mussels, exotic seastars, marine worms - even foreign seaweeds - could devastate Australia's marine environment, fisheries and aquaculture industries. An incursion of black-striped mussels in Darwin's Cullen Bay marina in 1999 cost $2.2 million to eradicate.
Marine Pests - don't give them a free ride identifies marine pests of particular concern to Australia, outlines maintenance and cleaning techniques, and provides a checklist of procedures to follow before and on arrival in Australia. Images and line drawings illustrate the pests' favourite onboard hiding places.
'Marine pests can stow away on hulls, on outboard motors or in internal seawater systems,' AQIS Seaports Program national manager Robert Langlands says.
'Incursions of exotic mussels and northern Pacific seastars in recent years have had huge impacts on recreational boating and commercial fishing, and have cost Australia millions of dollars to control or eradicate.
'AQIS has produced the brochure because we need cruising yachtsmen to help us manage these risks. By following the guidelines they can help themselves, their vessels and Australia's marine environment,' Robert says.
Noxious freshwater fish fine
The Department of Primary Industries and Fisheries (DPI&F) has scored a win in the fight against noxious and non-Indigenous fish with a western Queensland man being heavily fined for using carp and goldfish as bait.
A Charleville man pleaded guilty in the Cunnamulla Magistrates Court and was convicted and fined a total of $6250 plus $62.10 court costs for a variety of freshwater fishing offences including $4500 for possessing nine carp and three goldfish and using them as bait.
He was fined a further $1750 for being in possession of four undersized golden perch, one silver perch (black bream) which is a no take species in the Warrego River, and for a number of other set line and netting offences.
A Jandowae man pleaded guilty and was convicted and fined $750 plus $62.10 court costs for possessing and assisting with the set lines.
DPI&F officer Coby Walker said the heavy fines were a big win for Queensland's freshwater fisheries.
Mr Walker said fines of up to $150,000 could apply for being in possession of noxious fish and it was also illegal to use noxious fish such as carp and non-Indigenous fish such as gold fish as bait.
"Noxious and non-native fish cannot be used for bait either live or dead to prevent them from spreading throughout Queensland waterways," he said.
"They can compete with native fish species for food and also destroy habitat so it is critical our freshwater waterways are protected."
"These are considered serious offences under the Fisheries Act and anyone found breaking these regulations will be dealt with accordingly," he said.
"Fisheries regulations are in place to protect and conserve Queensland's fisheries resources."
SEANET convention
The South East Asia Amateur Radio Network (SEANET) was established in 1964 on 20m at 14.320 MHz. The objective of this Net is to promote international understanding and fellowship among amateur radio hams and to relay emergency, medical, urgent or priority traffic. This on-the-air meeting, which has taken place without fail daily at 1200 UTC, has strengthened unity and co-operation among Hams around the world, especially those within the region.
The radio net also provides Hams a facility for testing their equipment and propagation conditions on the 20m band.
This year's convention will be held in the Arnoma Hotel, in the city-centre of Bangkok from Friday 19th to Sunday 21st November 2004.
Dung in court
Two men have been fined a total of $45,000 in the Cairns Magistrates Court for separate trawling offences sending a strong message in the fight against fisheries crime.
Dung Van Le of Mackenzie, Brisbane, pleaded guilty in writing and was convicted and fined $30,000 plus $63.20 court costs for six offences including possessing non-permitted fish, possessing regulated fish, failing to accurately record catch details and taking painted crayfish.
In the second unrelated matter, Dahn Le of Calamvale, Brisbane, was convicted and fined $15,000 plus $63.20 court costs for three offences including possessing regulated fish during trawling operations.
Department of Primary Industries and Fisheries officers were conducting a routine inspection at a cold store premises in Cairns when they detected the illegal catches.
Acting district operations officer Robert Hall said the heavy fines sent a strong message to the fishing industry.
"This should act as a deterrent not only to fishers but to the industry as a whole," Mr Hall said.
"While most people do the right thing, there are still a few who disobey the law. The message is that those people who break the law will not be tolerated and will be treated accordingly."
Mr Hall said the forfeiture of the unlawful catch was a further deterrent to people who tried to gain financially from illegal fishing activities.
"Fisheries regulations are in place for a reason and that is to protect and conserve fisheries resources," he said.
"It is also important to remember that fisheries resources belong to the public, not just those with fishing interests."
Fitzalan mark moved
Mariners are advised that the lighted Special Mark buoy FL.Y.2.5s in approximate position, Latitude 20°17.9313' S, Longitude 148°55.0470' E in Fitzalan Passage has been altered in position to Latitude 20°17.8545' S, Longitude 148°55.0008' E.
Charts affected: AUS 252, 253, 254, 824
"Getting people to like you is simply the other side of liking other people."
Norman Vincent Peale
Fair winds to Ye!
Cap'n Dan
Sydney 2000 Gold medallist, Australian Jamie Dunross and his crew of Jeff Milligan and Colin Harrison had to be contented with fifth place, finishing their regatta with an eighth place in the final race, sailed in light to moderate south-westerly breezes.
Israeli Dor Cohen and his crew were dominant throughout the Paralympics in the three-person Sonar class and took the Gold by a persuasive nine points.
The Netherlands crew won Silver, with the USA's team taking Bronze, a further nine points in arrears.
Winning four of the nine races sailed the Israeli crew deserved Gold and only finished outside a top four place on one occasion. Following his win, Cohen commented, 'we are very happy for ourselves and for Israel. The flag of our country is up now.'
For Jamie Dunross and his crew from Western Australia, it was shattered dreams. Dunross, in particular, wanted that Gold for the skipper whom he won Gold with in Sydney, Noel Robbins, who was tragically killed in a car accident early last year.
The three showed moments of brilliance and at one stage were second placed, but it was not to be, however they had some good results including two second places, but did not sail consistently well as the top three did.
No free ride
AQIS - the Australian Quarantine and Inspection Service - has published a new brochure for cruising yachtsmen to help reduce the risk of introducing exotic marine pests.
Stowaways such as black-striped mussels, exotic seastars, marine worms - even foreign seaweeds - could devastate Australia's marine environment, fisheries and aquaculture industries. An incursion of black-striped mussels in Darwin's Cullen Bay marina in 1999 cost $2.2 million to eradicate.
Marine Pests - don't give them a free ride identifies marine pests of particular concern to Australia, outlines maintenance and cleaning techniques, and provides a checklist of procedures to follow before and on arrival in Australia. Images and line drawings illustrate the pests' favourite onboard hiding places.
'Marine pests can stow away on hulls, on outboard motors or in internal seawater systems,' AQIS Seaports Program national manager Robert Langlands says.
'Incursions of exotic mussels and northern Pacific seastars in recent years have had huge impacts on recreational boating and commercial fishing, and have cost Australia millions of dollars to control or eradicate.
'AQIS has produced the brochure because we need cruising yachtsmen to help us manage these risks. By following the guidelines they can help themselves, their vessels and Australia's marine environment,' Robert says.
Noxious freshwater fish fine
The Department of Primary Industries and Fisheries (DPI&F) has scored a win in the fight against noxious and non-Indigenous fish with a western Queensland man being heavily fined for using carp and goldfish as bait.
A Charleville man pleaded guilty in the Cunnamulla Magistrates Court and was convicted and fined a total of $6250 plus $62.10 court costs for a variety of freshwater fishing offences including $4500 for possessing nine carp and three goldfish and using them as bait.
He was fined a further $1750 for being in possession of four undersized golden perch, one silver perch (black bream) which is a no take species in the Warrego River, and for a number of other set line and netting offences.
A Jandowae man pleaded guilty and was convicted and fined $750 plus $62.10 court costs for possessing and assisting with the set lines.
DPI&F officer Coby Walker said the heavy fines were a big win for Queensland's freshwater fisheries.
Mr Walker said fines of up to $150,000 could apply for being in possession of noxious fish and it was also illegal to use noxious fish such as carp and non-Indigenous fish such as gold fish as bait.
"Noxious and non-native fish cannot be used for bait either live or dead to prevent them from spreading throughout Queensland waterways," he said.
"They can compete with native fish species for food and also destroy habitat so it is critical our freshwater waterways are protected."
"These are considered serious offences under the Fisheries Act and anyone found breaking these regulations will be dealt with accordingly," he said.
"Fisheries regulations are in place to protect and conserve Queensland's fisheries resources."
SEANET convention
The South East Asia Amateur Radio Network (SEANET) was established in 1964 on 20m at 14.320 MHz. The objective of this Net is to promote international understanding and fellowship among amateur radio hams and to relay emergency, medical, urgent or priority traffic. This on-the-air meeting, which has taken place without fail daily at 1200 UTC, has strengthened unity and co-operation among Hams around the world, especially those within the region.
The radio net also provides Hams a facility for testing their equipment and propagation conditions on the 20m band.
This year's convention will be held in the Arnoma Hotel, in the city-centre of Bangkok from Friday 19th to Sunday 21st November 2004.
Dung in court
Two men have been fined a total of $45,000 in the Cairns Magistrates Court for separate trawling offences sending a strong message in the fight against fisheries crime.
Dung Van Le of Mackenzie, Brisbane, pleaded guilty in writing and was convicted and fined $30,000 plus $63.20 court costs for six offences including possessing non-permitted fish, possessing regulated fish, failing to accurately record catch details and taking painted crayfish.
In the second unrelated matter, Dahn Le of Calamvale, Brisbane, was convicted and fined $15,000 plus $63.20 court costs for three offences including possessing regulated fish during trawling operations.
Department of Primary Industries and Fisheries officers were conducting a routine inspection at a cold store premises in Cairns when they detected the illegal catches.
Acting district operations officer Robert Hall said the heavy fines sent a strong message to the fishing industry.
"This should act as a deterrent not only to fishers but to the industry as a whole," Mr Hall said.
"While most people do the right thing, there are still a few who disobey the law. The message is that those people who break the law will not be tolerated and will be treated accordingly."
Mr Hall said the forfeiture of the unlawful catch was a further deterrent to people who tried to gain financially from illegal fishing activities.
"Fisheries regulations are in place for a reason and that is to protect and conserve fisheries resources," he said.
"It is also important to remember that fisheries resources belong to the public, not just those with fishing interests."
Fitzalan mark moved
Mariners are advised that the lighted Special Mark buoy FL.Y.2.5s in approximate position, Latitude 20°17.9313' S, Longitude 148°55.0470' E in Fitzalan Passage has been altered in position to Latitude 20°17.8545' S, Longitude 148°55.0008' E.
Charts affected: AUS 252, 253, 254, 824
"Getting people to like you is simply the other side of liking other people."
Norman Vincent Peale
Fair winds to Ye!
Cap'n Dan
Wednesday, September 22, 2004
Aussies in medal quest at Para Games
The 12th Paralympic Games sailing events have experienced the same variable wind conditions that plagued Olympic sailors at the Athens Saronic Gulf venue.
The Israeli team have been it top form with the German crews the ones to watch. The Netherlands, USA and Australia have been extremely consistent throughout the Regatta.
Australia's Jamie Dunross, Jeff Milligan & Colin Harrison moved into the silver medal spot after day two of racing in the Sonar class. After a successful protest on day one, and consistent results in day two, the trio were well placed with two days of racing to go.
However, the Aussies slipped to 5th place after day three's mixed results. The trio had a 7th, their worst result of the regatta in race five, and equalled their best result so far in race six - a 2nd.
As one of only four crews to have finished in the top ten of every race, the Aussies are looking good for a medal.
A quiet day on the Saronic Gulf with only the Sonar fleet taking to the water on day three of the sailing regatta at the 2004 Paralympic Games in Athens. For the 2.4mR sailors it was a day to tune and polish.
Luckily, for some of the athletes, who found themselves on a local bus that did not know the way to the sailing venue, racing was postponed as the Race Committee waited for the breeze to settle down.
All eyes have been on Heiko Kroeger of Germany, the undisputed pre-event favourite of the 2.4mR class, whose DSQ on Tuesday has him now trailing in the race for the medals.
After a small postponement, the second race of the day began. Germany dominated this race from the start, eventually winning by a comfortable margin.
Following behind them were the Dutch, Israeli and the Australian crews. Some interesting manoeuvres and a lot of shouting between the Netherlands and Israelis enabled Australia to sneak through to take second place.
The Israeli team who are now able to throw out their DSQ from race two. In second spot is the German team back in form after a poor first day. The Netherlands, USA and Australia have been extremely consistent throughout the Regatta, so they should be intent on a day-four triumph that could turn them into strong gold medal contenders.
GPS jammers banned
Devices that can be used to jam global positioning systems (GPS) have been prohibited under section 190 of the Radiocommunications Act 1992.
A person who supplies, or possesses a jamming device for the purpose of supply, can be prosecuted under the Act. Penalties range from fines of up to $165, 000, to imprisonment. It is already an offence to operate or possess such devices.
The Australian Communications Authority (ACA) announces the ban on Radionavigation-Satellite Service (RNSS) jammers.
Beyond possible Defence use, for which an exemption exists, there appears to be no legitimate radiocommunications use for an RNSS jammer.
The only real use for such a device is to adversely affect, interfere with, disrupt or disturb the reception of RNSS radiocommunications.
Hams keep on air during storm
As the third major hurricane in two months crossed the Caribbean Sea, radio amateurs in the region have once again been in action, providing emergency communications.
The Hurricane Watch Net has been in almost continuous operation on 14,325kHz for over three weeks. It co-ordinates its activities with WX4NHC at the American National Hurricane Centre, which gathers real-time weather data and damage reports from radio amateurs in the path of the hurricane.
As Hurricane Ivan threatened the US Gulf Coast, the Amateur Radio Emergency Service there was placed on standby alert. Local Emergency Coordinators established VHF and UHF repeater nets and monitoring the emergency frequencies of 3,965 and 7,243kHz.
Everlasting love
The deep-sea anglerfish absorbs her mate. Finding a mate in the dark depths of the ocean is a pretty tough job! So, what does a male anglerfish do when he finds a mate? He never lets her go! The male lives as a parasite on the body of the much larger female, taking his food from her bloodstream. In time, their bodies fuse together, forming a sort of two-body hermaphrodite. It also frees both sexes from constantly seeking out new breeding partners whenever it is time to mate. How do they find each other in the darkness? Although at one time it was thought that each lure was designed to attract special prey, it now appears that the unique shape has evolved to attract a male of the same species who recognizes his future mate by her lure.
Fitzalan light restored
Mariners are advised that the Special Mark light buoy Fl.Y.2.5s in approximate position Latitude 20°18.7922' S, Longitude 148°56.0571' E in Fitzalan Passage which is off Whitsunday Passage has been restored to normal. Charts affected: AUS 252, 253, 254, 824
"The reason why so little is done, is generally because so little is attempted."
Fair winds to Ye!
Cap'n Dan
The 12th Paralympic Games sailing events have experienced the same variable wind conditions that plagued Olympic sailors at the Athens Saronic Gulf venue.
The Israeli team have been it top form with the German crews the ones to watch. The Netherlands, USA and Australia have been extremely consistent throughout the Regatta.
Australia's Jamie Dunross, Jeff Milligan & Colin Harrison moved into the silver medal spot after day two of racing in the Sonar class. After a successful protest on day one, and consistent results in day two, the trio were well placed with two days of racing to go.
However, the Aussies slipped to 5th place after day three's mixed results. The trio had a 7th, their worst result of the regatta in race five, and equalled their best result so far in race six - a 2nd.
As one of only four crews to have finished in the top ten of every race, the Aussies are looking good for a medal.
A quiet day on the Saronic Gulf with only the Sonar fleet taking to the water on day three of the sailing regatta at the 2004 Paralympic Games in Athens. For the 2.4mR sailors it was a day to tune and polish.
Luckily, for some of the athletes, who found themselves on a local bus that did not know the way to the sailing venue, racing was postponed as the Race Committee waited for the breeze to settle down.
All eyes have been on Heiko Kroeger of Germany, the undisputed pre-event favourite of the 2.4mR class, whose DSQ on Tuesday has him now trailing in the race for the medals.
After a small postponement, the second race of the day began. Germany dominated this race from the start, eventually winning by a comfortable margin.
Following behind them were the Dutch, Israeli and the Australian crews. Some interesting manoeuvres and a lot of shouting between the Netherlands and Israelis enabled Australia to sneak through to take second place.
The Israeli team who are now able to throw out their DSQ from race two. In second spot is the German team back in form after a poor first day. The Netherlands, USA and Australia have been extremely consistent throughout the Regatta, so they should be intent on a day-four triumph that could turn them into strong gold medal contenders.
GPS jammers banned
Devices that can be used to jam global positioning systems (GPS) have been prohibited under section 190 of the Radiocommunications Act 1992.
A person who supplies, or possesses a jamming device for the purpose of supply, can be prosecuted under the Act. Penalties range from fines of up to $165, 000, to imprisonment. It is already an offence to operate or possess such devices.
The Australian Communications Authority (ACA) announces the ban on Radionavigation-Satellite Service (RNSS) jammers.
Beyond possible Defence use, for which an exemption exists, there appears to be no legitimate radiocommunications use for an RNSS jammer.
The only real use for such a device is to adversely affect, interfere with, disrupt or disturb the reception of RNSS radiocommunications.
Hams keep on air during storm
As the third major hurricane in two months crossed the Caribbean Sea, radio amateurs in the region have once again been in action, providing emergency communications.
The Hurricane Watch Net has been in almost continuous operation on 14,325kHz for over three weeks. It co-ordinates its activities with WX4NHC at the American National Hurricane Centre, which gathers real-time weather data and damage reports from radio amateurs in the path of the hurricane.
As Hurricane Ivan threatened the US Gulf Coast, the Amateur Radio Emergency Service there was placed on standby alert. Local Emergency Coordinators established VHF and UHF repeater nets and monitoring the emergency frequencies of 3,965 and 7,243kHz.
Everlasting love
The deep-sea anglerfish absorbs her mate. Finding a mate in the dark depths of the ocean is a pretty tough job! So, what does a male anglerfish do when he finds a mate? He never lets her go! The male lives as a parasite on the body of the much larger female, taking his food from her bloodstream. In time, their bodies fuse together, forming a sort of two-body hermaphrodite. It also frees both sexes from constantly seeking out new breeding partners whenever it is time to mate. How do they find each other in the darkness? Although at one time it was thought that each lure was designed to attract special prey, it now appears that the unique shape has evolved to attract a male of the same species who recognizes his future mate by her lure.
Fitzalan light restored
Mariners are advised that the Special Mark light buoy Fl.Y.2.5s in approximate position Latitude 20°18.7922' S, Longitude 148°56.0571' E in Fitzalan Passage which is off Whitsunday Passage has been restored to normal. Charts affected: AUS 252, 253, 254, 824
"The reason why so little is done, is generally because so little is attempted."
Fair winds to Ye!
Cap'n Dan
Wednesday, September 15, 2004
Bowen Fishing Classic this weekend
Billed as Australia's biggest family fishing classic, Bowen's Front Beach comes alive with a weekend of family fun in the sun.
And after the sun sets, the party kicks off featuring James Blundell, Luella Widt and the Blue Heeler Band on Saturday night.
One of the best prizes you can give to a fisher is a boat, so the Bowen Fishing Classic organisers have a senior boat worth $26,000 and a junior boat worth $3350.
Another prize is a go-anywhere fridge sure to be popular in anyone's boat and you could win it by just weighing in any type of fish.
There is also a tagged fish swimming somewhere in Edgecumbe Bay that could get you $7500 in cash besides a nice fish.
The prizes in both senior and junior categories for highest weight and secret weight can bring in more cash and prizes. The heaviest fish weighed in by a female angler will score $1,000.
Always a good weekend and now in its thirteenth year, get along to the Bowen Fishing Classic and Wet Weekend.
Rig up with club
The Whitsunday Game Fishing Club has invited all interested fishers to a free BBQ and Bait Rigging evening at the Marine Club this Friday.
Members enjoy these get together nights and enjoy showing new people the many ways to rig baits.
Friday 17th 6.30pm at the Combined Marine Club opposite the Police Station at Cannonvale. All welcome.
Pirate day
This Saturday is International Talk like a Pirate Day and there are several pirate bands getting together to, well, talk like pirates.
As the pirates couldn't agree on a venue, they will be scattered around the coast and waterfront. Maybe next year we'll get together for a real 'bash.'
Record set
The World Speed Sailing Record Council announced the ratification of a new World Record: Outright longest distance run in 24 hours to yacht Orange 2 sailed by Bruno Peyron on August 23rd 2004 with a distance travelled of 706.2 nm and an average speed of 29.42 knots.
Wet disco dancing
Mate went to a seafood disco last week...and pulled a muscle.
Spending time talking leisure
International experts will be jetting into Brisbane this week to discuss something most people are fond of - leisure time.
Sponsored by the Queensland Government, the 8th World Leisure Congress will bring together around 800 researchers, social planners, policy-makers, and leisure activity managers to talk about everything from turf playing surfaces to gambling.
Department of Primary Industries and Fisheries Marketing Manager Louise Morland has urged anyone involved in sport, the arts and entertainment, tourism, or community and outdoor recreation to take part in the congress that aims to improve global networks and expertise.
"Leisure plays a significant role in people's quality of life," Ms Morland said.
"According to the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, all people have a basic human right to leisure activities and all governments are obliged to recognise and protect this right.
The eighth World Leisure Congress will be held at the Brisbane Convention Centre from September 12 to 17, 2004.
The sun also rises
Only until relatively recent times was north at the top of most maps. For several centuries of cartography, East was on top, as where the sun rose was the most important direction.
"Expect the best, plan for the worst and prepare to be surprised."
Fair winds to Ye!
Cap'n Dan
Billed as Australia's biggest family fishing classic, Bowen's Front Beach comes alive with a weekend of family fun in the sun.
And after the sun sets, the party kicks off featuring James Blundell, Luella Widt and the Blue Heeler Band on Saturday night.
One of the best prizes you can give to a fisher is a boat, so the Bowen Fishing Classic organisers have a senior boat worth $26,000 and a junior boat worth $3350.
Another prize is a go-anywhere fridge sure to be popular in anyone's boat and you could win it by just weighing in any type of fish.
There is also a tagged fish swimming somewhere in Edgecumbe Bay that could get you $7500 in cash besides a nice fish.
The prizes in both senior and junior categories for highest weight and secret weight can bring in more cash and prizes. The heaviest fish weighed in by a female angler will score $1,000.
Always a good weekend and now in its thirteenth year, get along to the Bowen Fishing Classic and Wet Weekend.
Rig up with club
The Whitsunday Game Fishing Club has invited all interested fishers to a free BBQ and Bait Rigging evening at the Marine Club this Friday.
Members enjoy these get together nights and enjoy showing new people the many ways to rig baits.
Friday 17th 6.30pm at the Combined Marine Club opposite the Police Station at Cannonvale. All welcome.
Pirate day
This Saturday is International Talk like a Pirate Day and there are several pirate bands getting together to, well, talk like pirates.
As the pirates couldn't agree on a venue, they will be scattered around the coast and waterfront. Maybe next year we'll get together for a real 'bash.'
Record set
The World Speed Sailing Record Council announced the ratification of a new World Record: Outright longest distance run in 24 hours to yacht Orange 2 sailed by Bruno Peyron on August 23rd 2004 with a distance travelled of 706.2 nm and an average speed of 29.42 knots.
Wet disco dancing
Mate went to a seafood disco last week...and pulled a muscle.
Spending time talking leisure
International experts will be jetting into Brisbane this week to discuss something most people are fond of - leisure time.
Sponsored by the Queensland Government, the 8th World Leisure Congress will bring together around 800 researchers, social planners, policy-makers, and leisure activity managers to talk about everything from turf playing surfaces to gambling.
Department of Primary Industries and Fisheries Marketing Manager Louise Morland has urged anyone involved in sport, the arts and entertainment, tourism, or community and outdoor recreation to take part in the congress that aims to improve global networks and expertise.
"Leisure plays a significant role in people's quality of life," Ms Morland said.
"According to the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, all people have a basic human right to leisure activities and all governments are obliged to recognise and protect this right.
The eighth World Leisure Congress will be held at the Brisbane Convention Centre from September 12 to 17, 2004.
The sun also rises
Only until relatively recent times was north at the top of most maps. For several centuries of cartography, East was on top, as where the sun rose was the most important direction.
"Expect the best, plan for the worst and prepare to be surprised."
Fair winds to Ye!
Cap'n Dan
Wednesday, September 08, 2004
Gold yachtsman leads Aussie Paralympic Games team
Australia's Sonar yacht crew lead by Sydney 2000 Paralympic Games Gold medal winner Jamie Dunross on helm with crew Colin Harrison and Jeff Milligan and coach Geoff Chambers left Australia this week.
The Paralympic Sailing competition will be held at the Agios Kosmas Olympic Sailing Centre September 18 - 23. Sixteen countries have qualified for the competition that is second only to the Olympic games in prestige.
Also ready to go to Athens in a few days is 2.4mR 'mini 12-metre' representative Peter Thompson and coach Lachlan Gilbert.
The Olympic sailing area was criticized during the games because of shifting, unpredictable and on occasion, no wind.
Three-Person 'Sonar' was designed specifically to meet the requirements of a club racing one-design keelboat fleet. It had to be exciting to race yet easy to handle by sailors of all ages, strengths and skill levels, comfortable and spacious enough to be used as a day sailor, trailerable and easy to launch as well as being a suitable training boat to help teach club members new to the sport.
The Sonar is popular with able-bodied and disabled sailors alike and there is a competitive racing circuit in Europe and the USA.
The 2.4mR is a single-handed keelboat that is one-fifth scale versions of the 12-metre Americas Cup boats. The Scandinavian Sailing Federation introduced the class as the Mini 12 Class in 1982 before achieving International Status in 1993.
The 2.4mR has classic lines with a very high ballast ration giving excellent stability and a hull form that copes well in a variety of wind speeds. The Class Rules require positive buoyancy in the case of flooding and it is therefore a very safe class.
It is a self-righting and unsinkable keelboat with a fully adjustable rig providing close racing for all ages and abilities where skill rather than physical fitness is the deciding factor. The 2.4mR can be steered by either a foot pedal or tiller.
Peter Thompson, 53, is a married Financial Consultant who previously sailed Flying 15s after starting on VJs at age 12.
Jeffery Milligan, 47, a married Supervisor started sailing in a Sabot at age 12 and has competed at 2002 Disable Sailing Worlds Championships and won the Nationals in Athens 2003.
Colin Harrison, 43 Medical Imaging Technologist previously sailed Laser, Fireball and 505. Boat first sailed was a GP14 at age 15.
Gold medallist Jamie Dunross is a full-time athlete who started sailing at age 14 in an Yvonne 20. "I live and breathe sailing" Jamie says.
When not sailing, Jamie speaks to children at schools, teaching children about disability and not being frightened.
His career highlight was winning gold at the Sydney 2000 Paralympic Games/1999 World Championship in Spain.
Sporting goal: Gold in Athens
Best of luck at Athens from all the Aussie sailing supporters at home.
Young Murdoch
A few years ago keen sailor Rupert Murdoch told mates at the Hamilton Island Yacht Club bar that he hoped young Lachlan would like sailing and take it up. At the time, Lachlan had a reasonable boat (a Swan) to sail with professional crew to help. Rupert had his yacht 'Morning Glory' anchored in Dent Passage, as she was too big to enter Hamilton Island marina.
Young Lachlan was back for Hamilton Island Hahn Race Week recently with curvaceous model wife Sarah O'Hare showing curves that announce another young Murdoch is expected.
Another sailor one hopes.
The sun also rises
Only until relatively recent times was north at the top of most maps. For several centuries of cartography, East was on top, as where the sun rose was the most important direction.
Spawning moon
The annual spawning season closures for coral reef fin fish start in October this year.
Three, nine-day spawning season closures are in place from 8 October to 16 October, 6 November to 14 November and 6 December to 14 December. Coral reef fin fish species cannot be taken during these periods.
Department of Primary Industries and Fisheries (DPI&F) reef line manager Mark Elmer said the closures had been implemented as part of the Fisheries (Coral Reef Fin Fish) Management Plan 2003.
Mr Elmer said coral trout and many other reef fish species aggregated while spawning making them particularly susceptible to fishing.
"During these periods numbers of mature fish aggregate in certain locations on the reefs to spawn, generally corresponding with the new moon phase," he said.
Wet disco dancing
Mate went to a seafood disco last week...and pulled a muscle.
Sailing down the coast?
Mariners are advised that live firing activities will be conducted in the Shoalwater Bay Training Area. All civil watercraft are prohibited from entering the danger area from Monday, 13th September to Thursday, 23rd September 2004.
A Marine Danger Area has been declared bordered by Oyster Creek, Raspberry Creek, Shoalwater Creek, Georges Creek, Head (Boundary) Creek and East Creek. They are all closed and not available.
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. Offenders will be subject to criminal prosecution and upon conviction a maximum penalty of 3 months imprisonment and $500 fine.
Charts: AUS 367, 370, 822
Tin Can Inlet - submerged vessel
Mariners are advised that a 12 metre submerged white timber vessel is located in the Tin Can Inlet off Smooger Point Great Sandy Strait (South). The vessel is unlit and visible at high water. Mariners are advised to navigate the area with caution when near the submerged vessel. Charts: AUS 365
Hallelujah
"You can preach a better sermon with your life than with your lips."
Preached Oliver Goldsmith
Fair winds to Ye!
Cap'n Dan
Australia's Sonar yacht crew lead by Sydney 2000 Paralympic Games Gold medal winner Jamie Dunross on helm with crew Colin Harrison and Jeff Milligan and coach Geoff Chambers left Australia this week.
The Paralympic Sailing competition will be held at the Agios Kosmas Olympic Sailing Centre September 18 - 23. Sixteen countries have qualified for the competition that is second only to the Olympic games in prestige.
Also ready to go to Athens in a few days is 2.4mR 'mini 12-metre' representative Peter Thompson and coach Lachlan Gilbert.
The Olympic sailing area was criticized during the games because of shifting, unpredictable and on occasion, no wind.
Three-Person 'Sonar' was designed specifically to meet the requirements of a club racing one-design keelboat fleet. It had to be exciting to race yet easy to handle by sailors of all ages, strengths and skill levels, comfortable and spacious enough to be used as a day sailor, trailerable and easy to launch as well as being a suitable training boat to help teach club members new to the sport.
The Sonar is popular with able-bodied and disabled sailors alike and there is a competitive racing circuit in Europe and the USA.
The 2.4mR is a single-handed keelboat that is one-fifth scale versions of the 12-metre Americas Cup boats. The Scandinavian Sailing Federation introduced the class as the Mini 12 Class in 1982 before achieving International Status in 1993.
The 2.4mR has classic lines with a very high ballast ration giving excellent stability and a hull form that copes well in a variety of wind speeds. The Class Rules require positive buoyancy in the case of flooding and it is therefore a very safe class.
It is a self-righting and unsinkable keelboat with a fully adjustable rig providing close racing for all ages and abilities where skill rather than physical fitness is the deciding factor. The 2.4mR can be steered by either a foot pedal or tiller.
Peter Thompson, 53, is a married Financial Consultant who previously sailed Flying 15s after starting on VJs at age 12.
Jeffery Milligan, 47, a married Supervisor started sailing in a Sabot at age 12 and has competed at 2002 Disable Sailing Worlds Championships and won the Nationals in Athens 2003.
Colin Harrison, 43 Medical Imaging Technologist previously sailed Laser, Fireball and 505. Boat first sailed was a GP14 at age 15.
Gold medallist Jamie Dunross is a full-time athlete who started sailing at age 14 in an Yvonne 20. "I live and breathe sailing" Jamie says.
When not sailing, Jamie speaks to children at schools, teaching children about disability and not being frightened.
His career highlight was winning gold at the Sydney 2000 Paralympic Games/1999 World Championship in Spain.
Sporting goal: Gold in Athens
Best of luck at Athens from all the Aussie sailing supporters at home.
Young Murdoch
A few years ago keen sailor Rupert Murdoch told mates at the Hamilton Island Yacht Club bar that he hoped young Lachlan would like sailing and take it up. At the time, Lachlan had a reasonable boat (a Swan) to sail with professional crew to help. Rupert had his yacht 'Morning Glory' anchored in Dent Passage, as she was too big to enter Hamilton Island marina.
Young Lachlan was back for Hamilton Island Hahn Race Week recently with curvaceous model wife Sarah O'Hare showing curves that announce another young Murdoch is expected.
Another sailor one hopes.
The sun also rises
Only until relatively recent times was north at the top of most maps. For several centuries of cartography, East was on top, as where the sun rose was the most important direction.
Spawning moon
The annual spawning season closures for coral reef fin fish start in October this year.
Three, nine-day spawning season closures are in place from 8 October to 16 October, 6 November to 14 November and 6 December to 14 December. Coral reef fin fish species cannot be taken during these periods.
Department of Primary Industries and Fisheries (DPI&F) reef line manager Mark Elmer said the closures had been implemented as part of the Fisheries (Coral Reef Fin Fish) Management Plan 2003.
Mr Elmer said coral trout and many other reef fish species aggregated while spawning making them particularly susceptible to fishing.
"During these periods numbers of mature fish aggregate in certain locations on the reefs to spawn, generally corresponding with the new moon phase," he said.
Wet disco dancing
Mate went to a seafood disco last week...and pulled a muscle.
Sailing down the coast?
Mariners are advised that live firing activities will be conducted in the Shoalwater Bay Training Area. All civil watercraft are prohibited from entering the danger area from Monday, 13th September to Thursday, 23rd September 2004.
A Marine Danger Area has been declared bordered by Oyster Creek, Raspberry Creek, Shoalwater Creek, Georges Creek, Head (Boundary) Creek and East Creek. They are all closed and not available.
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. Offenders will be subject to criminal prosecution and upon conviction a maximum penalty of 3 months imprisonment and $500 fine.
Charts: AUS 367, 370, 822
Tin Can Inlet - submerged vessel
Mariners are advised that a 12 metre submerged white timber vessel is located in the Tin Can Inlet off Smooger Point Great Sandy Strait (South). The vessel is unlit and visible at high water. Mariners are advised to navigate the area with caution when near the submerged vessel. Charts: AUS 365
Hallelujah
"You can preach a better sermon with your life than with your lips."
Preached Oliver Goldsmith
Fair winds to Ye!
Cap'n Dan
Wednesday, September 01, 2004
VMR Whitsunday serving the marine community
Volunteer Marine Rescue Whitsunday regularly deals with Medivac (medical evacuation) distress flare sighting, Search, Rescue, and emergency services transportation.
The volunteer group -- call sign VMR 442 -- are responsible for three VHF radio communications repeaters in the area.
Radio communications are monitored by volunteers whenever possible. In the interests of safety, VMR President Steve Moss has requested that if you and your staff or crew hear an emergency life threatening radio call unanswered alert the appropriate authority.
"Just telephone 'OOO' in a marine emergency" Mr Moss says.
"Should you require any assistance from VMR Whitsunday, please call 49467207"
Fun Race looms this weekend
Whitsunday Fun Race schedule of events kicks off on Friday with a Best Tropical Shirt night a Whitsunday Sailing Club. Some member draws and Fun Race registration with a briefing at 7:30PM.
Saturday morning has registrations at the club from 8:30 until 10:30. Fun Race starts 11:00. Official Fun Race party on the foreshore from sunset with Miss Figurehead and Mr 6-Pack at 9.30PM.
Get over it with the Sunday Chill Out on the foreshore.
Hamo record
Record fleet of 187 yachts sailed at Hamilton Island Hahn Race Week last week.
Record falls - money raised
Ross Hobson with his crew of Guy Gibbins and Simon Redding aboard the 50-foot trimaran Mollymawk have broken, subject to ratification, the trans-Atlantic, Bermuda to Plymouth world record.
The team crossed the finishing line at Plymouth at 1920hrs Monday knocking almost 14 hours off the previous Bermuda to Plymouth record.
French yachtsman Eric Tabarly set the current record for the 2,870-mile crossing in 14 days 20 hours in August 1974.
Hobson and crew were raising money for Sail 4 Cancer.
"I'm absolutely delighted that we've finally achieved what we set out to do. It's a great stepping stone to my next challenge which I hope to get off the ground within the next 12 months" Hobson commented.
Record missed
Orange II, the maxi-catamaran skippered by Bruno Peyron, missed out on breaking the Atlantic crossing record, between New York and The Lizard by just over half an hour. Peyron and crew are claiming a new 24-hour record of 706.2 miles, the first over 700 miles, which has to be ratified.
Crab crimes
A successful Department of Primary Industries and Fisheries (DPI&F) undercover operation investigating illegal crabbing activities has resulted in heavy fines for four Brisbane men.
The men appeared in Court and were found guilty of interfering with commercial fishing apparatus. Two men were convicted and fined $3000 plus $62 court costs. The other two were convicted and fined $1500 plus $62 court costs.
During the operation, QBFP field officers fitted four male mud crabs with microscopic metal tags and placed them in crab pots.
Throughout the night, the officers monitored the activities of the four men who took the crabs from the pots.
The tags allowed the officers to scan the crabs using a metal detector. The crabs were identified as those belonging to the QBFP.
"The heavy fines are a message to anyone considering stealing or interfering with another person's crab pots," QBFP field officer Brendan Johnson said.
Problem with maritime training
"It was brought to our attention last week that one unit within Maritime Safety Queensland's (MSQ) engineering licence profiles was different to the unit number within the maritime training package. The unit in question is "TDM MF27 01A - Prevent, control and fight fires on board a small vessel".
"The contents page of the maritime training package (TDM01) - Engineering has this unit listed TDM MF27 01A, however the section within the training package which specifies the elements, performance criteria etc for this unit, has it listed as TDM MF27 00A.
"TDT Australia advised that TDM MF27 01A is the correct unit number (as per
MSQ licence profiles) and that 00A was a misprint within the training package.
However, the Department of Employment and Training (DET) have confirmed they are using unit number TDM MF27 00A for their registration and auditing purposes. DET also advised this number could not be changed until TDT had done so in the training package and arranged for the National Training Information Service (NTIS) website to be updated.
"Therefore, until such time, MSQ will accept Statements of Attainment from commercial licence candidates for the issue of engineering licences with evidence of successful completion of either unit TDM MF27 01A or TDM MF27 00A."
Information from Maritime Safety Queensland
All tanked up
A man arrested for drink driving in Knoxville, Tennessee has sued a gas (petrol) station because he could not have been arrested for drink driving if the service station hadn't sold him the fuel that made it possible for him to drive while drunk.
Fish quiz snags anglers
A new 30-second quiz on the DPI&F Fishweb site is a fun way for anglers to find out how much they know about Queensland's recreational fishing rules.
Web users are quizzed about fish size and possession limits, no take species and much more and are given a score out of 10 at the end, indicating whether they need to improve their fishing knowledge.
Queensland Boating and Fisheries Patrol education officer Karl Roebuck said the quiz was a quick and entertaining way for anglers to learn more about Queensland's recreational fishing rules.
"There is a lot to remember when you are out fishing and this quiz is a fun and interactive way to find out how much you know about fishing regulations," he said.
Test your fishing knowledge on the Fishweb site at www.dpi.qld.gov.au/fishweb
Service without a smile
A British job centre rejected a help-wanted notice for a 'friendly person' to work at a catering business because it might "discriminate against certain applicants."
Going South? Submerged object reported
Mariners are advised that at 0805 hours on Friday 27th August 2004, Coast Guard Mooloolaba reported that they had received a report of a large amount of fishing net with three large buoys attached, floating but partially submerged in approximate position, latitude 26° 48.182' S, longitude 153° 22.083' E.
Mariners should exercise caution when navigating in this area. Charts: AUS 235, 365, 813
Indeed
"Small deeds done are better than great deeds planned."
Fair winds to Ye!
Cap'n Dan
Volunteer Marine Rescue Whitsunday regularly deals with Medivac (medical evacuation) distress flare sighting, Search, Rescue, and emergency services transportation.
The volunteer group -- call sign VMR 442 -- are responsible for three VHF radio communications repeaters in the area.
Radio communications are monitored by volunteers whenever possible. In the interests of safety, VMR President Steve Moss has requested that if you and your staff or crew hear an emergency life threatening radio call unanswered alert the appropriate authority.
"Just telephone 'OOO' in a marine emergency" Mr Moss says.
"Should you require any assistance from VMR Whitsunday, please call 49467207"
Fun Race looms this weekend
Whitsunday Fun Race schedule of events kicks off on Friday with a Best Tropical Shirt night a Whitsunday Sailing Club. Some member draws and Fun Race registration with a briefing at 7:30PM.
Saturday morning has registrations at the club from 8:30 until 10:30. Fun Race starts 11:00. Official Fun Race party on the foreshore from sunset with Miss Figurehead and Mr 6-Pack at 9.30PM.
Get over it with the Sunday Chill Out on the foreshore.
Hamo record
Record fleet of 187 yachts sailed at Hamilton Island Hahn Race Week last week.
Record falls - money raised
Ross Hobson with his crew of Guy Gibbins and Simon Redding aboard the 50-foot trimaran Mollymawk have broken, subject to ratification, the trans-Atlantic, Bermuda to Plymouth world record.
The team crossed the finishing line at Plymouth at 1920hrs Monday knocking almost 14 hours off the previous Bermuda to Plymouth record.
French yachtsman Eric Tabarly set the current record for the 2,870-mile crossing in 14 days 20 hours in August 1974.
Hobson and crew were raising money for Sail 4 Cancer.
"I'm absolutely delighted that we've finally achieved what we set out to do. It's a great stepping stone to my next challenge which I hope to get off the ground within the next 12 months" Hobson commented.
Record missed
Orange II, the maxi-catamaran skippered by Bruno Peyron, missed out on breaking the Atlantic crossing record, between New York and The Lizard by just over half an hour. Peyron and crew are claiming a new 24-hour record of 706.2 miles, the first over 700 miles, which has to be ratified.
Crab crimes
A successful Department of Primary Industries and Fisheries (DPI&F) undercover operation investigating illegal crabbing activities has resulted in heavy fines for four Brisbane men.
The men appeared in Court and were found guilty of interfering with commercial fishing apparatus. Two men were convicted and fined $3000 plus $62 court costs. The other two were convicted and fined $1500 plus $62 court costs.
During the operation, QBFP field officers fitted four male mud crabs with microscopic metal tags and placed them in crab pots.
Throughout the night, the officers monitored the activities of the four men who took the crabs from the pots.
The tags allowed the officers to scan the crabs using a metal detector. The crabs were identified as those belonging to the QBFP.
"The heavy fines are a message to anyone considering stealing or interfering with another person's crab pots," QBFP field officer Brendan Johnson said.
Problem with maritime training
"It was brought to our attention last week that one unit within Maritime Safety Queensland's (MSQ) engineering licence profiles was different to the unit number within the maritime training package. The unit in question is "TDM MF27 01A - Prevent, control and fight fires on board a small vessel".
"The contents page of the maritime training package (TDM01) - Engineering has this unit listed TDM MF27 01A, however the section within the training package which specifies the elements, performance criteria etc for this unit, has it listed as TDM MF27 00A.
"TDT Australia advised that TDM MF27 01A is the correct unit number (as per
MSQ licence profiles) and that 00A was a misprint within the training package.
However, the Department of Employment and Training (DET) have confirmed they are using unit number TDM MF27 00A for their registration and auditing purposes. DET also advised this number could not be changed until TDT had done so in the training package and arranged for the National Training Information Service (NTIS) website to be updated.
"Therefore, until such time, MSQ will accept Statements of Attainment from commercial licence candidates for the issue of engineering licences with evidence of successful completion of either unit TDM MF27 01A or TDM MF27 00A."
Information from Maritime Safety Queensland
All tanked up
A man arrested for drink driving in Knoxville, Tennessee has sued a gas (petrol) station because he could not have been arrested for drink driving if the service station hadn't sold him the fuel that made it possible for him to drive while drunk.
Fish quiz snags anglers
A new 30-second quiz on the DPI&F Fishweb site is a fun way for anglers to find out how much they know about Queensland's recreational fishing rules.
Web users are quizzed about fish size and possession limits, no take species and much more and are given a score out of 10 at the end, indicating whether they need to improve their fishing knowledge.
Queensland Boating and Fisheries Patrol education officer Karl Roebuck said the quiz was a quick and entertaining way for anglers to learn more about Queensland's recreational fishing rules.
"There is a lot to remember when you are out fishing and this quiz is a fun and interactive way to find out how much you know about fishing regulations," he said.
Test your fishing knowledge on the Fishweb site at www.dpi.qld.gov.au/fishweb
Service without a smile
A British job centre rejected a help-wanted notice for a 'friendly person' to work at a catering business because it might "discriminate against certain applicants."
Going South? Submerged object reported
Mariners are advised that at 0805 hours on Friday 27th August 2004, Coast Guard Mooloolaba reported that they had received a report of a large amount of fishing net with three large buoys attached, floating but partially submerged in approximate position, latitude 26° 48.182' S, longitude 153° 22.083' E.
Mariners should exercise caution when navigating in this area. Charts: AUS 235, 365, 813
Indeed
"Small deeds done are better than great deeds planned."
Fair winds to Ye!
Cap'n Dan
Wednesday, August 25, 2004
Clean up king wants tanker ban on reef
The founder of Clean Up Australia says it is time to ban oil tankers from the waters of the Great Barrier Reef.
Ian Kiernan made the call after addressing an oil spill prevention conference in Brisbane.
Delegates at the conference heard more single-hulled tankers are likely in Australian waters due to tougher European laws to combat oil spills.
Mr Kiernan says the Great Barrier Reef is too great an asset to risk.
"I'd like to see consideration given to the banning of all shipping tankers coming inside the Barrier Reef because it is an asset," he said.
"If it is damaged, you've damaged an asset and so you've got an ongoing problem, a reduction in the value of the asset and I would much prefer all shipping being outside of the reef."
However, some people trained in oil spill response tend to disagree with the blanket ban of ships transiting inside the reef.
If tankers are banned inside the reef, they will be uncontrolled outside the reef on the high seas. Single hulled tankers are still a concern anywhere.
On the inner route, ships are monitored, engage in compulsory reporting and are under the control of a pilot.
If there is an accident inside the reef with prevailing calmer conditions the oil might end up on a beach that would be the best case for clean up or in mangroves, which is a worst-case outcome.
An accident outside the reef in the usual prevailing conditions, any oil spilt could come over the reef. The use of oil dispersants at this point would cause the oil to drop to the seabed, right on top of the reef - killing it - definitely worst case.
Sometimes the most environmentally friendly solution is to allow the oil or chemical to disperse and break down naturally. Unnecessary actions taken to demonstrate 'concern for the environment', or in response to public or media pressure, can result in much more serious damage to the environment than if the spill was left alone to disperse naturally.
No one can argue with Kiernan that we must always be vigilant to ensure the health of the reef.
Olympic sailing
Sailing is a way of life for millions of people all over the world. The sport has some of the most enthusiastic supporters. It is one of the few sports in which age does not play a significant role. In fact, the experience gained through years of involvement; often enhance the athlete's abilities.
Our sailing team have not taken any medals in the mainly light variable wind conditions experienced most days on the water at the venue.
Olympic sailing will be broadcast on SBS Television from 11pm on Thursday, August 26.
Congratulations Olympic medal winners!
Boat laws changed
The Transport Operations (Marine Safety) Regulation 2004 came into effect on 16 August 2004.
The 2004 Regulation completely replaces its 1995 predecessor and comprises a number of significant changes that affect the operations of recreational, commercial and fishing ships.
Breach of any regulation can incur a penalty. A selection of changes follows.
New: SCUBA Divers can surface at any time, any ship is excluded from operating within 30 metres of a diver in the water if a Code A is displayed. It is legal for the ship tending the diver to operate within the 30 metres.
New: Water skiing: now define "skier" as a person being towed by a line attached to a ship including, a person water skiing or riding on a toboggan or tube. In addition, the designated observer must be 'competent' to tell the operator about dangers, skier signals, and mishaps.
New: Registration numbers will need to be changed or repaired if they are not legible from 30 metres.
New: Licensing: new competency based training and assessment scheme for recreational ship operations. The BoatSafe scheme came into effect from 1 July 2004. Under the BoatSafe scheme, a candidate for a Recreational Marine Driver Licence (RMDL) must satisfactorily complete either an approved BoatSafe competency-based training and assessment program or an Assessment with an approved BoatSafe training provider. Those who currently hold a superseded Recreational Ship Master's Licence (RSML) or a previous non-expiring recreational licence do not need to reapply for the new licence
Previous Requirements for recreational licence: The necessity to hold a Recreational Marine Driver Licence depended on several factors relating to the ship being used at the time, including the power of the ship, the ship's top speed and the type of hull.
Now: Regardless of the type of hull or the ship's top speed, after 1 September 2005 all recreational ships with an engine power greater than 4.5 kW or six (6) hp (around 100-150cc) require a Recreational Marine Driver Licence to operate.
New: Drink driving conviction (motor vehicle): any marine licence can now be suspended or cancelled in the event of the licence holder being convicted of a breath analysis offence (drink driving) in a road motor vehicle.
Note: The information has been prepared only as a brief guide to the changes introduced.
It is not intended as a comprehensive or definitive explanation of rights and obligations under the relevant maritime legislation and should not be relied upon as such.
For more detailed information, your local Manager Maritime Safety.
All tanked up
A man arrested for drink driving in Knoxville, Tennessee has sued a gas (petrol) station because he could not have been arrested for drink driving if the service station hadn't sold him the fuel that made it possible for him to drive while drunk.
Fish quiz snags anglers
A new 30-second quiz on the DPI&F Fishweb site is a fun way for anglers to find out how much they know about Queensland's recreational fishing rules.
Web users are quizzed about fish size and possession limits, no take species and much more and are given a score out of 10 at the end, indicating whether they need to improve their fishing knowledge.
Queensland Boating and Fisheries Patrol education officer Karl Roebuck said the quiz was a quick and entertaining way for anglers to learn more about Queensland's recreational fishing rules.
"There is a lot to remember when you are out fishing and this quiz is a fun and interactive way to find out how much you know about fishing regulations," he said.
Test your fishing knowledge on the Fishweb site at www.dpi.qld.gov.au/fishweb
Sporty success
"I've missed over 9,000 shots in my career. I've lost almost 300 games. Twenty-six times, I've been trusted to take the game winning shot . . . and missed. I've failed over and over and over again in my life. And that is why I succeed."
-- Michael Jordan
Fair winds to Ye!
Cap'n Dan
The founder of Clean Up Australia says it is time to ban oil tankers from the waters of the Great Barrier Reef.
Ian Kiernan made the call after addressing an oil spill prevention conference in Brisbane.
Delegates at the conference heard more single-hulled tankers are likely in Australian waters due to tougher European laws to combat oil spills.
Mr Kiernan says the Great Barrier Reef is too great an asset to risk.
"I'd like to see consideration given to the banning of all shipping tankers coming inside the Barrier Reef because it is an asset," he said.
"If it is damaged, you've damaged an asset and so you've got an ongoing problem, a reduction in the value of the asset and I would much prefer all shipping being outside of the reef."
However, some people trained in oil spill response tend to disagree with the blanket ban of ships transiting inside the reef.
If tankers are banned inside the reef, they will be uncontrolled outside the reef on the high seas. Single hulled tankers are still a concern anywhere.
On the inner route, ships are monitored, engage in compulsory reporting and are under the control of a pilot.
If there is an accident inside the reef with prevailing calmer conditions the oil might end up on a beach that would be the best case for clean up or in mangroves, which is a worst-case outcome.
An accident outside the reef in the usual prevailing conditions, any oil spilt could come over the reef. The use of oil dispersants at this point would cause the oil to drop to the seabed, right on top of the reef - killing it - definitely worst case.
Sometimes the most environmentally friendly solution is to allow the oil or chemical to disperse and break down naturally. Unnecessary actions taken to demonstrate 'concern for the environment', or in response to public or media pressure, can result in much more serious damage to the environment than if the spill was left alone to disperse naturally.
No one can argue with Kiernan that we must always be vigilant to ensure the health of the reef.
Olympic sailing
Sailing is a way of life for millions of people all over the world. The sport has some of the most enthusiastic supporters. It is one of the few sports in which age does not play a significant role. In fact, the experience gained through years of involvement; often enhance the athlete's abilities.
Our sailing team have not taken any medals in the mainly light variable wind conditions experienced most days on the water at the venue.
Olympic sailing will be broadcast on SBS Television from 11pm on Thursday, August 26.
Congratulations Olympic medal winners!
Boat laws changed
The Transport Operations (Marine Safety) Regulation 2004 came into effect on 16 August 2004.
The 2004 Regulation completely replaces its 1995 predecessor and comprises a number of significant changes that affect the operations of recreational, commercial and fishing ships.
Breach of any regulation can incur a penalty. A selection of changes follows.
New: SCUBA Divers can surface at any time, any ship is excluded from operating within 30 metres of a diver in the water if a Code A is displayed. It is legal for the ship tending the diver to operate within the 30 metres.
New: Water skiing: now define "skier" as a person being towed by a line attached to a ship including, a person water skiing or riding on a toboggan or tube. In addition, the designated observer must be 'competent' to tell the operator about dangers, skier signals, and mishaps.
New: Registration numbers will need to be changed or repaired if they are not legible from 30 metres.
New: Licensing: new competency based training and assessment scheme for recreational ship operations. The BoatSafe scheme came into effect from 1 July 2004. Under the BoatSafe scheme, a candidate for a Recreational Marine Driver Licence (RMDL) must satisfactorily complete either an approved BoatSafe competency-based training and assessment program or an Assessment with an approved BoatSafe training provider. Those who currently hold a superseded Recreational Ship Master's Licence (RSML) or a previous non-expiring recreational licence do not need to reapply for the new licence
Previous Requirements for recreational licence: The necessity to hold a Recreational Marine Driver Licence depended on several factors relating to the ship being used at the time, including the power of the ship, the ship's top speed and the type of hull.
Now: Regardless of the type of hull or the ship's top speed, after 1 September 2005 all recreational ships with an engine power greater than 4.5 kW or six (6) hp (around 100-150cc) require a Recreational Marine Driver Licence to operate.
New: Drink driving conviction (motor vehicle): any marine licence can now be suspended or cancelled in the event of the licence holder being convicted of a breath analysis offence (drink driving) in a road motor vehicle.
Note: The information has been prepared only as a brief guide to the changes introduced.
It is not intended as a comprehensive or definitive explanation of rights and obligations under the relevant maritime legislation and should not be relied upon as such.
For more detailed information, your local Manager Maritime Safety.
All tanked up
A man arrested for drink driving in Knoxville, Tennessee has sued a gas (petrol) station because he could not have been arrested for drink driving if the service station hadn't sold him the fuel that made it possible for him to drive while drunk.
Fish quiz snags anglers
A new 30-second quiz on the DPI&F Fishweb site is a fun way for anglers to find out how much they know about Queensland's recreational fishing rules.
Web users are quizzed about fish size and possession limits, no take species and much more and are given a score out of 10 at the end, indicating whether they need to improve their fishing knowledge.
Queensland Boating and Fisheries Patrol education officer Karl Roebuck said the quiz was a quick and entertaining way for anglers to learn more about Queensland's recreational fishing rules.
"There is a lot to remember when you are out fishing and this quiz is a fun and interactive way to find out how much you know about fishing regulations," he said.
Test your fishing knowledge on the Fishweb site at www.dpi.qld.gov.au/fishweb
Sporty success
"I've missed over 9,000 shots in my career. I've lost almost 300 games. Twenty-six times, I've been trusted to take the game winning shot . . . and missed. I've failed over and over and over again in my life. And that is why I succeed."
-- Michael Jordan
Fair winds to Ye!
Cap'n Dan
Wednesday, August 18, 2004
Whitsunday 'winter' sailing report - 'fine'
If a reason were needed for record numbers of sailors competing in the current Tropical Shirt Regatta, our 'winter' weather could be one.
Some examples of world sailing event weather this week.
Athens example - "Racing was abandoned in all except the Finn & Yngling classes as the renowned Meltemi wind covered the Saronic Gulf on day three of competition with winds reported to be gusting up to 45 knots."
Pommyland example "The first strong winds of Cowes Week gave competitors some exciting and testing racing. With a forecast of 25 knots and gusts of up to 40 knots, several yachts found their rigging inadequate. The Solent Coastguard responded to 29 separate incidents, assisting 39 people, pulling six sailors from the water. A high rate of attrition among the fleet. Dark menacing clouds rolling in over the Solent have brought unpredictable and gusty conditions, adding to the chaos.
Mexican example - "After a horrendous Melbourne winter day on Saturday of gales, rain and snow, a cold westerly breeze of around 12 knots greeted the fleet for the 5th race of the Bavaria Yachts-ORCV Winter Series on Sunday morning."
Whitsunday example - "skipper O'Neil was again in brilliant sailing form on the warm waters of the Whitsunday Passage when . . ." "an ideal 12 knot south east breeze" and "Dry and sunny with some low level cumulus (white fluffy) clouds around today. Maximum land temperature: 25 degrees. Sea Temp: 21 degrees"
Just a few reasons why the 15th Hog's Breath Race Regatta has been the best yet and visiting sailors and their families enjoy the friendly local hospitality at the best winter regatta location on the Australian coast.
The winner is . . .
At Guardian press time, the 17.86 metre yacht 'Aftershock' had racked-up six straight line honours and a 1-3-1-1-2-1 corrected handicap score.
The Royal Prince Alfred Yacht Club 'turbocharged' sloop is the favourite to take her second 'Boss Hog' trophy.
Six times Olympian Colin Beashel and Australian Olympic team flag bearer usually sails with the Aftershock crew. They won the Admirals Cup teams racing championship last year on a chartered yacht, but Beashel had an event to sail in Athens, so skipper Colin O'Neil, internationally famed female navigator Adrienne Cahalan and crew will just have to do it themselves.
Fish quiz snags anglers
A new 30-second quiz on the DPI&F Fishweb site is a fun way for anglers to find out how much they know about Queensland's recreational fishing rules.
Web users are quizzed about fish size and possession limits, no take species and much more and are given a score out of 10 at the end, indicating whether they need to improve their fishing knowledge.
Queensland Boating and Fisheries Patrol education officer Karl Roebuck said the quiz was a quick and entertaining way for anglers to learn more about Queensland's recreational fishing rules.
"There is a lot to remember when you are out fishing and this quiz is a fun and interactive way to find out how much you know about fishing regulations," he said.
Test your fishing knowledge on the Fishweb site at www.dpi.qld.gov.au/fishweb
Claptrap
Delegates to the 2000 US Republican National Convention were given lists of spontaneous remarks they could make.
Boat laws changed
The Transport Operations (Marine Safety) Regulation 2004 came into effect on 16 August 2004.
The 2004 Regulation completely replaces its 1995 predecessor and comprises a number of significant changes that affect the operations of recreational, commercial and fishing ships.
Breach of any regulation can incur a penalty. A selection of changes follows.
New: SCUBA Divers can surface at any time, any ship is excluded from operating within 30 metres of a diver in the water if a Code A is displayed. It is legal for the ship tending the diver to operate within the 30 metres.
New: Water skiing: now define "skier" as a person being towed by a line attached to a ship including, a person water skiing or riding on a toboggan or tube. In addition, the designated observer must be 'competent' to tell the operator about dangers, skier signals, and mishaps.
New: Registration numbers will need to be changed or repaired if they are not legible from 30 metres.
New: Licensing: new competency based training and assessment scheme for recreational ship operations. The BoatSafe scheme came into effect from 1 July 2004. Under the BoatSafe scheme, a candidate for a Recreational Marine Driver Licence (RMDL) must satisfactorily complete either an approved BoatSafe competency-based training and assessment program or an Assessment with an approved BoatSafe training provider. Those who currently hold a superseded Recreational Ship Master's Licence (RSML) or a previous non-expiring recreational licence do not need to reapply for the new licence
Previous Requirements for recreational licence: The necessity to hold a Recreational Marine Driver Licence depended on several factors relating to the ship being used at the time, including the power of the ship, the ship's top speed and the type of hull.
Now: Regardless of the type of hull or the ship's top speed, after 1 September 2005 all recreational ships with an engine power greater than 4.5 kW or six (6) hp (around 100-150cc) require a Recreational Marine Driver Licence to operate.
New: Drink driving conviction (motor vehicle): any marine licence can now be suspended or cancelled in the event of the licence holder being convicted of a breath analysis offence (drink driving) in a road motor vehicle.
Note: The information has been prepared only as a brief guide to the changes introduced.
It is not intended as a comprehensive or definitive explanation of rights and obligations under the relevant maritime legislation and should not be relied upon as such.
For more detailed information, your local Manager Maritime Safety.
Unsafe, safe
Mariners are advised that the Leading Lights marking Unsafe Passage off West Molle (Daydream Island) have been restored to normal. Charts: AUS 252, 253
Fitzalan Passage light. Mariners are advised that the lighted Special Mark buoy FL.Y.2.5s in Fitzalan Passage has been restored to normal. Charts: AUS 252, 253, 254, 824
About time
"Put your hand on a hot stove for a minute, and it seems like an hour. Sit with a pretty girl for an hour, and it seems like a minute. That's relativity"
-- Albert Einstein
Fair winds to Ye!
Cap'n Dan
If a reason were needed for record numbers of sailors competing in the current Tropical Shirt Regatta, our 'winter' weather could be one.
Some examples of world sailing event weather this week.
Athens example - "Racing was abandoned in all except the Finn & Yngling classes as the renowned Meltemi wind covered the Saronic Gulf on day three of competition with winds reported to be gusting up to 45 knots."
Pommyland example "The first strong winds of Cowes Week gave competitors some exciting and testing racing. With a forecast of 25 knots and gusts of up to 40 knots, several yachts found their rigging inadequate. The Solent Coastguard responded to 29 separate incidents, assisting 39 people, pulling six sailors from the water. A high rate of attrition among the fleet. Dark menacing clouds rolling in over the Solent have brought unpredictable and gusty conditions, adding to the chaos.
Mexican example - "After a horrendous Melbourne winter day on Saturday of gales, rain and snow, a cold westerly breeze of around 12 knots greeted the fleet for the 5th race of the Bavaria Yachts-ORCV Winter Series on Sunday morning."
Whitsunday example - "skipper O'Neil was again in brilliant sailing form on the warm waters of the Whitsunday Passage when . . ." "an ideal 12 knot south east breeze" and "Dry and sunny with some low level cumulus (white fluffy) clouds around today. Maximum land temperature: 25 degrees. Sea Temp: 21 degrees"
Just a few reasons why the 15th Hog's Breath Race Regatta has been the best yet and visiting sailors and their families enjoy the friendly local hospitality at the best winter regatta location on the Australian coast.
The winner is . . .
At Guardian press time, the 17.86 metre yacht 'Aftershock' had racked-up six straight line honours and a 1-3-1-1-2-1 corrected handicap score.
The Royal Prince Alfred Yacht Club 'turbocharged' sloop is the favourite to take her second 'Boss Hog' trophy.
Six times Olympian Colin Beashel and Australian Olympic team flag bearer usually sails with the Aftershock crew. They won the Admirals Cup teams racing championship last year on a chartered yacht, but Beashel had an event to sail in Athens, so skipper Colin O'Neil, internationally famed female navigator Adrienne Cahalan and crew will just have to do it themselves.
Fish quiz snags anglers
A new 30-second quiz on the DPI&F Fishweb site is a fun way for anglers to find out how much they know about Queensland's recreational fishing rules.
Web users are quizzed about fish size and possession limits, no take species and much more and are given a score out of 10 at the end, indicating whether they need to improve their fishing knowledge.
Queensland Boating and Fisheries Patrol education officer Karl Roebuck said the quiz was a quick and entertaining way for anglers to learn more about Queensland's recreational fishing rules.
"There is a lot to remember when you are out fishing and this quiz is a fun and interactive way to find out how much you know about fishing regulations," he said.
Test your fishing knowledge on the Fishweb site at www.dpi.qld.gov.au/fishweb
Claptrap
Delegates to the 2000 US Republican National Convention were given lists of spontaneous remarks they could make.
Boat laws changed
The Transport Operations (Marine Safety) Regulation 2004 came into effect on 16 August 2004.
The 2004 Regulation completely replaces its 1995 predecessor and comprises a number of significant changes that affect the operations of recreational, commercial and fishing ships.
Breach of any regulation can incur a penalty. A selection of changes follows.
New: SCUBA Divers can surface at any time, any ship is excluded from operating within 30 metres of a diver in the water if a Code A is displayed. It is legal for the ship tending the diver to operate within the 30 metres.
New: Water skiing: now define "skier" as a person being towed by a line attached to a ship including, a person water skiing or riding on a toboggan or tube. In addition, the designated observer must be 'competent' to tell the operator about dangers, skier signals, and mishaps.
New: Registration numbers will need to be changed or repaired if they are not legible from 30 metres.
New: Licensing: new competency based training and assessment scheme for recreational ship operations. The BoatSafe scheme came into effect from 1 July 2004. Under the BoatSafe scheme, a candidate for a Recreational Marine Driver Licence (RMDL) must satisfactorily complete either an approved BoatSafe competency-based training and assessment program or an Assessment with an approved BoatSafe training provider. Those who currently hold a superseded Recreational Ship Master's Licence (RSML) or a previous non-expiring recreational licence do not need to reapply for the new licence
Previous Requirements for recreational licence: The necessity to hold a Recreational Marine Driver Licence depended on several factors relating to the ship being used at the time, including the power of the ship, the ship's top speed and the type of hull.
Now: Regardless of the type of hull or the ship's top speed, after 1 September 2005 all recreational ships with an engine power greater than 4.5 kW or six (6) hp (around 100-150cc) require a Recreational Marine Driver Licence to operate.
New: Drink driving conviction (motor vehicle): any marine licence can now be suspended or cancelled in the event of the licence holder being convicted of a breath analysis offence (drink driving) in a road motor vehicle.
Note: The information has been prepared only as a brief guide to the changes introduced.
It is not intended as a comprehensive or definitive explanation of rights and obligations under the relevant maritime legislation and should not be relied upon as such.
For more detailed information, your local Manager Maritime Safety.
Unsafe, safe
Mariners are advised that the Leading Lights marking Unsafe Passage off West Molle (Daydream Island) have been restored to normal. Charts: AUS 252, 253
Fitzalan Passage light. Mariners are advised that the lighted Special Mark buoy FL.Y.2.5s in Fitzalan Passage has been restored to normal. Charts: AUS 252, 253, 254, 824
About time
"Put your hand on a hot stove for a minute, and it seems like an hour. Sit with a pretty girl for an hour, and it seems like a minute. That's relativity"
-- Albert Einstein
Fair winds to Ye!
Cap'n Dan
Wednesday, August 11, 2004
Ahoy sailors, welcome to Whitsunday
Sailors from around the globe are assembling in the Whitsunday Islands to enjoy a couple weeks of sailing and fun. The sailors and their families come here for the warm weather and the warm welcome they receive at our Tropical Shirt Regatta.
This year marks the 15th sailing of the Annual Hog's Breath Race Week in Airlie Beach. The regatta will boast a record fleet, say organisers.
After the Airlie week there's Hamilton Island Race Week looming large - also with a record fleet and everything set for great sailing and shoreside entertainment.
Welcome aboard!
Navy Cadets
A meeting at the Neighbourhood Centre last Saturday was positive about the establishment of a Navy Cadet group in Whitsunday.
Lieutenant Garry Rovelli ANC, Commanding Officer of Training Ship Pioneer, Mackay welcomed attendees and outlined the requirements needed to form a group locally. TS Pioneer Mackay is well established after 45 years and has considerable facilities and expertise.
Chief Petty Officer ANC Denise O'Donnell had been surprised that there had not been a Navy Cadet group in Whitsunday before now.
"It was a real surprise considering the nautical nature of Whitsunday that there has never been a presence previously.
"The idea of forming the group has been very well received' CPO O'Donnell said.
Whitsunday Mayor Mario Demartini asked about employment prospects for those who took part in the Navy Cadets. A young member of the Mackay group related how he was waiting for his posting on his first RAN ship following his time spent in the Cadets.
"The Cadets gave me the edge to get into the Navy" the young recruit said.
Lieutenant Commander Paul Kelly ANC Deputy Senior Office for North Queensland told the meeting that about twenty-five percent of those getting into the Navy had experience in the Cadets.
"Cadets are a definite advantage and prepare young people with training to give them a good start in the RAN and life in general."
A number of young people attended and looked over the display of Corsairs and canoes owned by the Cadets and used for training and fun on the water. Your Waterfront writer really liked CPO O'Donnell's scones.
Whitsunday Water Police, Proserpine and Airlie Beach RSL officials joined interested parents in supporting the forming of a Navy Cadet group for the Shire.
Interested? CPOANC Denise O'Donnell 0409114693 or your RSL Branch.
Help Me Escape!
Four locals will be locked up this week, but it is all in the name of raising money to help kids.
Friday August 13 is NATIONAL LOCK UP YOUR BOSS DAY and I will be locked up in my office for one hour, hand cuffed and fitted out in a prisoner's uniform raising funds for Kids Help Line. Bail is set at $500 and is the only ticket to freedom.
At press time, there were 2559 registered prisoners all over Australia.
In Whitsunday, we are represented by Artie Jacobson, District Manager Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service. Hamilton Island Manager Mrs Julie Hornstra and CEO Wayne Kirkpatrick and Whitsunday Community Services Inc Administrator Cap'n Dan Van Blarcom.
NATIONAL LOCK UP YOUR BOSS DAY aims to raise over $1,000,000 for Kids Help Line, which is enough funds to answer 100,000 cries for help from kids around Australia. Kids Help Line is Australia's only 24-hour, confidential and anonymous telephone and online counselling service for kids from 5-18 years old, so it's a great cause!
Help me get out! I really need your support. You can Bail Me (or the others) Out Online at the LOCK UP YOUR BOSS DAY website go to http://www.lockupyourbossday.com.au and receive a tax deductible receipt for your bail donation
Fishers fined
More than $15000 in fines was handed down in Cairns Magistrates Courts for illegal fishing offences.
In the first incident two men pleaded guilty and were convicted and fined $3000 each plus costs for unlawfully interfering with fishing apparatus.
They when found raiding crab pots following a Department of Primary Industries and Fisheries surveillance operation in Trinity Inlet, Cairns.
During the operation Queensland Boating and Fisheries Patrol (QBFP) officers attached a micro tag to a number of crabs that were then placed in crab pots positioned randomly throughout the inlet.
The officers noticed the two men taking crabs from pots that were not their own and then used the micro tag to confirm they had unlawfully taken the crabs.
A commercial operator was convicted and fined $9000 for unlawful fishing after QBFP officers found the man to be in possession of a large quantity of illegal species in his catch.
QBFP acting district operations officer Robert Hall, Cairns, said the fines sent a strong message to people breaking fishing regulations.
Stormy weather
Storm and heavy weather sails covered by Yachting Australia's Special Regulation 4.24 requires that from 1 July 2004: A required storm sail be either made of highly visible coloured material (eg. Day-Glo pink, orange or yellow) or have a highly visible patch on each side.
A real wiz
Six percent of Britons between the ages of 16 and 24 believe Gandalf defeated the Spanish Armada, says a survey.
Blue water race
In the Southport to Mackay Blue Water Yacht Race, handicap winner in both divisions was AFR Midnight Rambler, owned by Ed Psaltis and skipper Bob Thomas. All crew members came from Mackay.
Placegetters in IRC Division were Ichi Ban, a Farr 52 owned by 2nd time entrant Matt Allen; Double O Seven; line honours winner Andrew Short Marine and Seriously Ten, both 60 ft Volvo Around the World racing boats, and Melbourne-based Elektra, skippered by Michael Hiatt.
In PHRF Division, place getters were Double O Seven, a Northshore NSX38 skippered by Airlie Beach resident Warren Smith, Ichi Ban, Andrew Short Marine, Hi Fidelity, Seriously Ten and Elektra.
Good on yer, Warren!
Fitzalan unlit
Mariners are advised that the lighted Special Mark buoy FL.Y.2.5s in approximate position Latitude 20°17.9313' S, Longitude 148°55.047' E, in Fitzalan Passage off Whitsunday Passage, has been reported to be unlit. Mariners should use caution in the vicinity. Charts: AUS 252, 253, 254, 824
Best of luck to the Australian Olympic Sailing Team in Athens.
Fair winds to Ye!
Cap'n Dan
Sailors from around the globe are assembling in the Whitsunday Islands to enjoy a couple weeks of sailing and fun. The sailors and their families come here for the warm weather and the warm welcome they receive at our Tropical Shirt Regatta.
This year marks the 15th sailing of the Annual Hog's Breath Race Week in Airlie Beach. The regatta will boast a record fleet, say organisers.
After the Airlie week there's Hamilton Island Race Week looming large - also with a record fleet and everything set for great sailing and shoreside entertainment.
Welcome aboard!
Navy Cadets
A meeting at the Neighbourhood Centre last Saturday was positive about the establishment of a Navy Cadet group in Whitsunday.
Lieutenant Garry Rovelli ANC, Commanding Officer of Training Ship Pioneer, Mackay welcomed attendees and outlined the requirements needed to form a group locally. TS Pioneer Mackay is well established after 45 years and has considerable facilities and expertise.
Chief Petty Officer ANC Denise O'Donnell had been surprised that there had not been a Navy Cadet group in Whitsunday before now.
"It was a real surprise considering the nautical nature of Whitsunday that there has never been a presence previously.
"The idea of forming the group has been very well received' CPO O'Donnell said.
Whitsunday Mayor Mario Demartini asked about employment prospects for those who took part in the Navy Cadets. A young member of the Mackay group related how he was waiting for his posting on his first RAN ship following his time spent in the Cadets.
"The Cadets gave me the edge to get into the Navy" the young recruit said.
Lieutenant Commander Paul Kelly ANC Deputy Senior Office for North Queensland told the meeting that about twenty-five percent of those getting into the Navy had experience in the Cadets.
"Cadets are a definite advantage and prepare young people with training to give them a good start in the RAN and life in general."
A number of young people attended and looked over the display of Corsairs and canoes owned by the Cadets and used for training and fun on the water. Your Waterfront writer really liked CPO O'Donnell's scones.
Whitsunday Water Police, Proserpine and Airlie Beach RSL officials joined interested parents in supporting the forming of a Navy Cadet group for the Shire.
Interested? CPOANC Denise O'Donnell 0409114693 or your RSL Branch.
Help Me Escape!
Four locals will be locked up this week, but it is all in the name of raising money to help kids.
Friday August 13 is NATIONAL LOCK UP YOUR BOSS DAY and I will be locked up in my office for one hour, hand cuffed and fitted out in a prisoner's uniform raising funds for Kids Help Line. Bail is set at $500 and is the only ticket to freedom.
At press time, there were 2559 registered prisoners all over Australia.
In Whitsunday, we are represented by Artie Jacobson, District Manager Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service. Hamilton Island Manager Mrs Julie Hornstra and CEO Wayne Kirkpatrick and Whitsunday Community Services Inc Administrator Cap'n Dan Van Blarcom.
NATIONAL LOCK UP YOUR BOSS DAY aims to raise over $1,000,000 for Kids Help Line, which is enough funds to answer 100,000 cries for help from kids around Australia. Kids Help Line is Australia's only 24-hour, confidential and anonymous telephone and online counselling service for kids from 5-18 years old, so it's a great cause!
Help me get out! I really need your support. You can Bail Me (or the others) Out Online at the LOCK UP YOUR BOSS DAY website go to http://www.lockupyourbossday.com.au and receive a tax deductible receipt for your bail donation
Fishers fined
More than $15000 in fines was handed down in Cairns Magistrates Courts for illegal fishing offences.
In the first incident two men pleaded guilty and were convicted and fined $3000 each plus costs for unlawfully interfering with fishing apparatus.
They when found raiding crab pots following a Department of Primary Industries and Fisheries surveillance operation in Trinity Inlet, Cairns.
During the operation Queensland Boating and Fisheries Patrol (QBFP) officers attached a micro tag to a number of crabs that were then placed in crab pots positioned randomly throughout the inlet.
The officers noticed the two men taking crabs from pots that were not their own and then used the micro tag to confirm they had unlawfully taken the crabs.
A commercial operator was convicted and fined $9000 for unlawful fishing after QBFP officers found the man to be in possession of a large quantity of illegal species in his catch.
QBFP acting district operations officer Robert Hall, Cairns, said the fines sent a strong message to people breaking fishing regulations.
Stormy weather
Storm and heavy weather sails covered by Yachting Australia's Special Regulation 4.24 requires that from 1 July 2004: A required storm sail be either made of highly visible coloured material (eg. Day-Glo pink, orange or yellow) or have a highly visible patch on each side.
A real wiz
Six percent of Britons between the ages of 16 and 24 believe Gandalf defeated the Spanish Armada, says a survey.
Blue water race
In the Southport to Mackay Blue Water Yacht Race, handicap winner in both divisions was AFR Midnight Rambler, owned by Ed Psaltis and skipper Bob Thomas. All crew members came from Mackay.
Placegetters in IRC Division were Ichi Ban, a Farr 52 owned by 2nd time entrant Matt Allen; Double O Seven; line honours winner Andrew Short Marine and Seriously Ten, both 60 ft Volvo Around the World racing boats, and Melbourne-based Elektra, skippered by Michael Hiatt.
In PHRF Division, place getters were Double O Seven, a Northshore NSX38 skippered by Airlie Beach resident Warren Smith, Ichi Ban, Andrew Short Marine, Hi Fidelity, Seriously Ten and Elektra.
Good on yer, Warren!
Fitzalan unlit
Mariners are advised that the lighted Special Mark buoy FL.Y.2.5s in approximate position Latitude 20°17.9313' S, Longitude 148°55.047' E, in Fitzalan Passage off Whitsunday Passage, has been reported to be unlit. Mariners should use caution in the vicinity. Charts: AUS 252, 253, 254, 824
Best of luck to the Australian Olympic Sailing Team in Athens.
Fair winds to Ye!
Cap'n Dan
Wednesday, August 04, 2004
Welcome Aboard Navy Cadets, an ocean of fun!
The Australian Navy Cadets is a voluntary youth organisation sponsored by the Royal Australian Navy and about to get underway locally.
Cadets learn about sailing and seamanship, and are encouraged to explore their own potential. Cadets learn leadership skills and effective communication; they develop confidence, pride and self-discipline. But at the top of the list is FUN! And the Australian Navy Cadets has oceans of it.
Now Whitsunday will get it's chance to take part with the first meeting on Saturday for the commencement of Australian Navy Cadets TS Pioneer, Whitsunday Division.
See a display of the official Navy sailing craft, the Corsair, canoes and rescue boats. Music by the Cadet Band TS Pioneer, Mackay and an introduction to cadet activities are all on the agenda for Saturday August 7 from 10:30 am at the Whitsunday Community Centre, Hazelwood Court, Cannonvale.
Commanding Officer Leut Garry Rovelli ANC will welcome you and explain the role of Cadets in the community and issues required to make the Cadets a part of our community.
Cadets reflect Navy's strong commitment to the Australian community. Thousands of young Australians have improved their lives by learning citizenship through seamanship as Australian Navy Cadets. Many have progressed to successful careers in the Royal Australian Navy or made significant contributions to their civilian communities in later life.
If you're into adventure, you'll get as much as you can handle as an Australian Navy Cadet.
You'll get to go sailing, hiking, canoeing and camping. Plus you'll learn everything about seamanship from navigational training to Naval signals and communication.
However, it's not all fun and games. You will have to study first aid, fire fighting and pass muster in parade training. Nevertheless, if you can take on the challenge the rewards are good.
All you have to be is aged between 12 years 6 months and 19.
So, if you're ready to get fully trained in adventure, get into the Australian Navy Cadets and get out there!
Just add water!
Return of the ring
An epic search across the world, not including Hobbits but with a touch of the 'Luck of the Irish' and including an inscription on a golden ring as a clue has had a happy ending for a young couple.
A lost wedding ring is back on its rightful finger again following a 14-month search by the discoverer.
Lost, and then found deep in the waters of the Great Barrier Reef, Irishman Declan O'Rourke thought he had lost the ring forever when it slipped from his finger while diving in the Whitsundays during his honeymoon with wife Antoinette in April last year.
The golden wedding ring lay at the bottom of the reef for a month until SCUBA Diver Paul Walker from Manchester spotted the gold band shining on the seabed and began his epic search for its owner.
The clue, an inscription on the ring bearing the couple's names and their wedding date gave the finder something to go on.
Like the pot of gold at the end of a rainbow, the ring is back on the lucky Irishman's hand.
Boat Briefer course
"Happy to confirm the Bareboat Briefer course will be held at TAFE Cannonvale starting Tuesday 17th August. The final practical session will be on Saturday 28th August at Abel Point Marina."
"Enrolment at TAFE Cannonvale from August 4 for 15 students. If there is a further demand, we will run another course probably in October."
Cheers, John Bates. Maritime Studies BRIT Cannonvale Campus
Experts agree
"Even when all the experts agree, they may well be mistaken"
-- Bertrand Russell
Many thanks
Former President Bill Clinton's opening remarks at the US Democratic National Convention:
"Thank you. Thank you very much. Thank you, ladies and gentlemen. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you."
Fair winds to Ye!
Cap'n Dan
The Australian Navy Cadets is a voluntary youth organisation sponsored by the Royal Australian Navy and about to get underway locally.
Cadets learn about sailing and seamanship, and are encouraged to explore their own potential. Cadets learn leadership skills and effective communication; they develop confidence, pride and self-discipline. But at the top of the list is FUN! And the Australian Navy Cadets has oceans of it.
Now Whitsunday will get it's chance to take part with the first meeting on Saturday for the commencement of Australian Navy Cadets TS Pioneer, Whitsunday Division.
See a display of the official Navy sailing craft, the Corsair, canoes and rescue boats. Music by the Cadet Band TS Pioneer, Mackay and an introduction to cadet activities are all on the agenda for Saturday August 7 from 10:30 am at the Whitsunday Community Centre, Hazelwood Court, Cannonvale.
Commanding Officer Leut Garry Rovelli ANC will welcome you and explain the role of Cadets in the community and issues required to make the Cadets a part of our community.
Cadets reflect Navy's strong commitment to the Australian community. Thousands of young Australians have improved their lives by learning citizenship through seamanship as Australian Navy Cadets. Many have progressed to successful careers in the Royal Australian Navy or made significant contributions to their civilian communities in later life.
If you're into adventure, you'll get as much as you can handle as an Australian Navy Cadet.
You'll get to go sailing, hiking, canoeing and camping. Plus you'll learn everything about seamanship from navigational training to Naval signals and communication.
However, it's not all fun and games. You will have to study first aid, fire fighting and pass muster in parade training. Nevertheless, if you can take on the challenge the rewards are good.
All you have to be is aged between 12 years 6 months and 19.
So, if you're ready to get fully trained in adventure, get into the Australian Navy Cadets and get out there!
Just add water!
Return of the ring
An epic search across the world, not including Hobbits but with a touch of the 'Luck of the Irish' and including an inscription on a golden ring as a clue has had a happy ending for a young couple.
A lost wedding ring is back on its rightful finger again following a 14-month search by the discoverer.
Lost, and then found deep in the waters of the Great Barrier Reef, Irishman Declan O'Rourke thought he had lost the ring forever when it slipped from his finger while diving in the Whitsundays during his honeymoon with wife Antoinette in April last year.
The golden wedding ring lay at the bottom of the reef for a month until SCUBA Diver Paul Walker from Manchester spotted the gold band shining on the seabed and began his epic search for its owner.
The clue, an inscription on the ring bearing the couple's names and their wedding date gave the finder something to go on.
Like the pot of gold at the end of a rainbow, the ring is back on the lucky Irishman's hand.
Boat Briefer course
"Happy to confirm the Bareboat Briefer course will be held at TAFE Cannonvale starting Tuesday 17th August. The final practical session will be on Saturday 28th August at Abel Point Marina."
"Enrolment at TAFE Cannonvale from August 4 for 15 students. If there is a further demand, we will run another course probably in October."
Cheers, John Bates. Maritime Studies BRIT Cannonvale Campus
Experts agree
"Even when all the experts agree, they may well be mistaken"
-- Bertrand Russell
Many thanks
Former President Bill Clinton's opening remarks at the US Democratic National Convention:
"Thank you. Thank you very much. Thank you, ladies and gentlemen. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you."
Fair winds to Ye!
Cap'n Dan
Wednesday, July 28, 2004
Heading North: East coast sailing season starts
The 19th annual Sydney Gold Coast Yacht Race will start this Saturday, 31 July, an event that is second only in status to the Rolex Sydney Hobart Yacht Race among long ocean races conducted by the Cruising Yacht Club of Australia.
The CYCA introduced the Sydney Gold Coast Yacht Race in 1986 as "the great winter escape", taking advantage of the completion of the Gold Coast Seaway. Extensive harbour works funded by the Queensland Government had opened up an all-weather entrance at the Southport bar to deep keel yachts, large pleasure craft and fishing trawlers.
Appropriately, the Official Starter of the inaugural Jupiters Gold Coast Yacht Race was the then Premier of Queensland, Sir Joh Bjelke-Peterson, who fired the starting cannon to send a fleet of 83 boats north with the promise of much warmer weather. An equally colourful character in the late Jack Rooklyn sailed his famous maxi yacht Apollo to a double victory, taking line honours and first place on corrected time.
Since then the 384 nautical mile race has attracted fleets of between 60 and 70 yachts each year, with entries coming mainly from New South Wales and Queensland, but also from Victoria, Tasmania, South Australia and New Zealand. In 1997, a record fleet of 86 boats took part.
The Gold Coast Race (sometimes called "the Southport Race" by yachties") is a prestigious race in its own right and is a feeder race north to the winter regattas in the Whitsunday Islands.
This year's Sydney Gold Coast Race has attracted a healthy fleet of 14 Sydney 38s that will go on from the finish at Southport to their Pan Pacific Championships at Hog's Breath Race week in Airlie Beach and National Championships at the Hahn Premium Hamilton Island Race Week.
Standing the test of time
Parents who threaten to read the riot act to their kids, an act that was passed 289 years ago in Britain, might try reading the real thing:
"Our sovereign lord the king chargeth and commandeth all persons, being assembled, immediately to disperse themselves, and peaceably to depart to their habitations, or to their lawful businesses, upon the pains contained in the act made in the first year of King George, for preventing tumults and riotous assemblies. God save the King."
Wordplay
Products no longer explode but instead undergo an "unplanned loss of containment."
Female record
The World Sailing Speed Record Council announces the ratification of the World Record "Transatlantic West to East, single-handed female" Sailed by: Ellen MacArthur on Castorama B&Q, 21st to 29th June 2004 for and elapsed time of 7 days 3 hours 49 minutes 57 seconds and average speed: 17.09 knots.
Ellen's story is not just about sailing, rather one of human endeavour - and here it is, from land-locked Derbyshire girl to 'Yachtsman of the Year', in a flash...
"An expert skipper, electrician, sail-maker, engineer, journalist, cameraman, doctor... unfortunately though, not yet a great cook!
Survival Eating: "Saving weight is critical, eating freeze-dried foodstuffs can significantly save weight on the boat - all Ellen has to worry about is not burning the water!
Race goes on: Ellen describes moments that ultimately make her endeavours immensely satisfying: "A beautiful sunrise welcomed the day in. Inky black clouds slowly lit by an intense yellow sun... A very strong feeling of pleasure to be out here on the ocean... The sheer joy to race again and the chance to be re-living this passion... I feel just lucky to be here."
Open and shut case
A new military radio system is jamming remote-control garage doors in communities near Eglin Air Force Base, Florida. During testing of a new $5.5 million two-way radio system, homeowners in the area reported that their garage door openers failed to work or went wild by themselves.
Complaints? A Federal Communications Commission spokesperson had some bad news for local homeowners. If the Air Force is running the system within its licensed frequencies then the users of garage door openers may have to change the operating frequencies of theirs.
So, shut it!
Hardly fair
We Have Seen the Present, and It Does Not Work: An employer in Liverpool, England, posting a help-wanted ad at a government unemployment office was told she would have to delete a reference to "hard-working" as it is discriminatory.
Are we falling behind in political correctness and sensitivity?
Uinervtisy rscheearch
Aoccdrnig to a rscheearch at Cmabrigde Uinervtisy, it deosn't mttaer in waht oredr the ltteers in a wrod are, the olny iprmoatnt tihng is that the frist and Lsat Ltteer be in the rghit pclae.
The rset can be a taotl mses and you can sitll raed it wouthit porbelm.
Tihs is bcuseae the huamn mnid deos not raed ervey lteter by istlef, but the wrod as a wlohe.
Unexploded ordinance
Shoalwater Bay training area. A Marine Danger Area has been declared due to unexploded ordinance from 0001 hours on Thursday July 1st 2004 to Monday February 28th 2005, for all waters within a 2 nautical mile radius of Raynham Island, Latitude 22° 15.97' S, Longitude 150° 32.46' E.
Any person or vessel found within this danger area will be removed by Australian Defence Force personnel or by Queensland Police. Any costs associated with such removal will be borne by the owner, charterer, hirer or agent of the watercraft. Offenders will be subject to criminal prosecution and upon conviction; a maximum penalty of 3 months imprisonment and $500.00 fine may be imposed. Charts affected: AUS 260, 367, 822
The Greek year
"The mind is not a vessel to be filled but a fire to be kindled."
Plutarch, Greek historian/biographer
Fair winds to Ye!
Cap'n Dan
Wednesday, July 21, 2004
HMAS Wewak granted Freedom of Entry to Whitsunday
A well attended ceremony at Airlie Beach on Saturday welcomed the officers and crew of HMAS Wewak and dignitaries headed by Australian Defence Minister Robert Hill.
Whitsunday Mayor Mario Demartini officially granted the Wewak crew, complete with armed guard, swords drawn and bayonets fixed, Freedom of Entry.
Mario Demartini handed the scroll of the city to Chief Petty Officer David Leeming. The scroll bearer in turn then handed the White Ensign (naval flag) to the Mayor. The chief police officer of the town Sgt Andrew Dupere representing the traditional sherrif then gave official permission for the ship's company to march through the town which they did with gusto to the sound of the beating drums and the Proserpine Citizens Band.
The Freedom of Entry is a British heritage tradition centuries old, started in medieval times and often sees cities adopt military ships named after them.
As the adopted ship of the town of Whitsunday, or Airlie Beach as it's better known, HMAS Wewak is now bound to protect the township in a time of military crisis or unrest.
And where was the ship? In dry dock in Cairns getting a refit so the entire crew could visit.
At the RSL, Wewak captain Lieutenant Commander Ett Mulder and Mayor Demartini exchanged plaques. The sailors gave a Wewak crest and photo of the ship, while Mayor Mario gave a shire crest and ariel photo of the town.
RSL President Bill Rose was presented with a ceremonial life buoy to be displayed in the new RSL at the Reef Gateway.
Sen Hill had an enjoyable relaxed time and later presented two certificates to sailors who had finished their engineering course and two commanding officers commendations. The recipients were quite proud to get their certificates from The Chief.
Senator Hill was very impressed with the new RSL.
On Saturday night the Wewak crew and partners enjoyed a formal dinner. The partners of the crew were quite happy to discover how friendly the town is and are looking forward to spending more time here.
RSL member Col Deller told The Guardian the event was the culmination of two years of planning.
"The Wewak had been busy working for Australia and it took two years to organise this event. It was worth it, just looking at the turn-up on Saturday. It doesn't happen in small towns very often. Senator Hill commented on this and how enjoyable it was to spend the previous night with his wife relaxing in Airlie Beach without the commonwealth car and all the Canberra paraphernalia and weather.
" The crew and their partners really enjoyed Airlie and commented that it was a very friendly place they will visit again.
"Thanks to terrorists, ceremonial swords are not allowed on aircraft, so the swords and weapons used on the day arrived by road.
"I'd like to thank Darren from Gunnadoo and Alf Scully who supplied the sound gear and Proserpine Citizens Band. Kim and Dale Turner did the catering featuring home made treats savoured by the Defence Minister and the appreciative Wewak crew at the RSL.
"All in all it was a very good weekend. ABC Radio gave us good national publicity and Navy News will further show off our town.
"It was worth the work, so thanks to all those who participated" Col added.
So, what's next Col?"
"It looks like the Minister and the Captain have agree to an enthusiastic plan to take school kids out on the ship when it is here next . . ."
Three cheers for Wewak and Whitsunday
Bare boating banned
Canoeing while naked is now illegal on the Elk River in Missouri USA.
McDonald County Commissioners passed a law Wednesday banning nudity on the southwest Missouri County's waters. Violators can be fined up to $1,000.
Commissioners took the action after the sheriff's wife and another woman were offended over the weekend at a private beach in a subdivision along the Elk River, near Pineville.
A group of about 20 canoeists, including several topless women, rounded a curve on the river near the beach, authorities said.
Diane Smith, who was with Evenson's wife and owns property in the subdivision, asked the women to cover themselves because there were children present, authorities said.
Smith told authorities that some people in the group started cursing and assaulting them.
Prosecutor Steve Geeding and the commissioners had been discussing an ordinance banning nudity on the river for several weeks, but the incident prompted them to take action.
"It was a horrible experience, but at least something good came out of it," said Smith, of Bella Vista, Arkansas.
Michael Royal, 26, of Olathe, Kansas still faces charges and was released on $50,000 bond.
Call signs
Ever wondered why Australian call signs start with the letter V?
Radio call signs are allocated on an international basis - Australia was originally allocated the block of VHA-VKZ at the London Radio Conference of 1912.
Many former UK colonies such as Canada, Australia, South Africa and British India were allocated call signs from the V series at the 1912 conference.
The reason? Queen Victoria had recently died - the block was allocated in her memory.
Female record
The World Sailing Speed Record Council announces the ratification of the World Record "Transatlantic West to East, single-handed female" Sailed by: Ellen MacArthur on Castorama B&Q, 21st to 29th June 2004 for and elapsed time of 7 days 3 hours 49 minutes 57 seconds and average speed: 17.09 knots.
Ellen's story is not just about sailing, rather one of human endeavour - and here it is, from land-locked Derbyshire girl to 'Yachtsman of the Year', in a flash...
"An expert skipper, electrician, sail-maker, engineer, journalist, cameraman, doctor... unfortunately though, not yet a great cook!
Survival Eating: "Saving weight is critical, eating freeze-dried foodstuffs can significantly save weight on the boat - all Ellen has to worry about is not burning the water!
Race goes on: Ellen describes moments that ultimately make her endeavours immensely satisfying: "A beautiful sunrise welcomed the day in. Inky black clouds slowly lit by an intense yellow sun... A very strong feeling of pleasure to be out here on the ocean... The sheer joy to race again and the chance to be re-living this passion... I feel just lucky to be here."
Open and shut case
A new military radio system is jamming remote-control garage doors in communities near Eglin Air Force Base, Florida. During testing of a new $5.5 million two-way radio system, homeowners in the area reported that their garage door openers failed to work or went wild by themselves.
Complaints? A Federal Communications Commission spokesperson had some bad news for local homeowners. If the Air Force is running the system within its licensed frequencies then the users of garage door openers may have to change the operating frequencies of theirs.
So, shut it!
Maritime communications
The first meeting of the Advisory Committee of the Office of Maritime Communications was held in June via teleconferencing.
Concern was expressed regarding the standard operating procedures and conversations held on marine radios. Paul Hedgcock (Proserpine) expressed concern about people holding old certificates that were not up with current technology or procedures. J Mair, Manager, pointed out that AMSA were not issuing MMSI numbers to operators holding an MROCP older than 5 years.
Policing frequencies - The public are at liberty to report in writing to the Australian Communications Authority any incident of misuse or abuse of radio frequencies and channels. Once received the ACA is obligated to investigate the matter.
Hardly fair
We Have Seen the Present, and It Does Not Work: An employer in Liverpool, England, posting a help-wanted ad at a government unemployment office was told she would have to delete a reference to "hard-working" as it is discriminatory.
Are we falling behind in political correctness and sensitivity?
Abel Pt shallow
Mariners are advised that a shallow area has been reported in the southern entrance of Abel Point Marina in the approach to Shingley Beach in approximate position Latitude 21°16.07' S, Longitude 148°42.42' E. Charts: AUS 252, 253, 268
Fitzalan Pass unlit
Mariners are advised that the lighted Special Mark buoy Fl.Y.2.5s in approximate position Latitude 20°18.7922' S, Longitude 148°56.0571' E in Fitzalan Passage which is off Whitsunday Passage has been reported to be unlit. Charts: AUS 252, 253, 254, 824
Are you experienced?
"Experience is something you don't get until just after you need it."
Fair winds to Ye!
Cap'n Dan
A well attended ceremony at Airlie Beach on Saturday welcomed the officers and crew of HMAS Wewak and dignitaries headed by Australian Defence Minister Robert Hill.
Whitsunday Mayor Mario Demartini officially granted the Wewak crew, complete with armed guard, swords drawn and bayonets fixed, Freedom of Entry.
Mario Demartini handed the scroll of the city to Chief Petty Officer David Leeming. The scroll bearer in turn then handed the White Ensign (naval flag) to the Mayor. The chief police officer of the town Sgt Andrew Dupere representing the traditional sherrif then gave official permission for the ship's company to march through the town which they did with gusto to the sound of the beating drums and the Proserpine Citizens Band.
The Freedom of Entry is a British heritage tradition centuries old, started in medieval times and often sees cities adopt military ships named after them.
As the adopted ship of the town of Whitsunday, or Airlie Beach as it's better known, HMAS Wewak is now bound to protect the township in a time of military crisis or unrest.
And where was the ship? In dry dock in Cairns getting a refit so the entire crew could visit.
At the RSL, Wewak captain Lieutenant Commander Ett Mulder and Mayor Demartini exchanged plaques. The sailors gave a Wewak crest and photo of the ship, while Mayor Mario gave a shire crest and ariel photo of the town.
RSL President Bill Rose was presented with a ceremonial life buoy to be displayed in the new RSL at the Reef Gateway.
Sen Hill had an enjoyable relaxed time and later presented two certificates to sailors who had finished their engineering course and two commanding officers commendations. The recipients were quite proud to get their certificates from The Chief.
Senator Hill was very impressed with the new RSL.
On Saturday night the Wewak crew and partners enjoyed a formal dinner. The partners of the crew were quite happy to discover how friendly the town is and are looking forward to spending more time here.
RSL member Col Deller told The Guardian the event was the culmination of two years of planning.
"The Wewak had been busy working for Australia and it took two years to organise this event. It was worth it, just looking at the turn-up on Saturday. It doesn't happen in small towns very often. Senator Hill commented on this and how enjoyable it was to spend the previous night with his wife relaxing in Airlie Beach without the commonwealth car and all the Canberra paraphernalia and weather.
" The crew and their partners really enjoyed Airlie and commented that it was a very friendly place they will visit again.
"Thanks to terrorists, ceremonial swords are not allowed on aircraft, so the swords and weapons used on the day arrived by road.
"I'd like to thank Darren from Gunnadoo and Alf Scully who supplied the sound gear and Proserpine Citizens Band. Kim and Dale Turner did the catering featuring home made treats savoured by the Defence Minister and the appreciative Wewak crew at the RSL.
"All in all it was a very good weekend. ABC Radio gave us good national publicity and Navy News will further show off our town.
"It was worth the work, so thanks to all those who participated" Col added.
So, what's next Col?"
"It looks like the Minister and the Captain have agree to an enthusiastic plan to take school kids out on the ship when it is here next . . ."
Three cheers for Wewak and Whitsunday
Bare boating banned
Canoeing while naked is now illegal on the Elk River in Missouri USA.
McDonald County Commissioners passed a law Wednesday banning nudity on the southwest Missouri County's waters. Violators can be fined up to $1,000.
Commissioners took the action after the sheriff's wife and another woman were offended over the weekend at a private beach in a subdivision along the Elk River, near Pineville.
A group of about 20 canoeists, including several topless women, rounded a curve on the river near the beach, authorities said.
Diane Smith, who was with Evenson's wife and owns property in the subdivision, asked the women to cover themselves because there were children present, authorities said.
Smith told authorities that some people in the group started cursing and assaulting them.
Prosecutor Steve Geeding and the commissioners had been discussing an ordinance banning nudity on the river for several weeks, but the incident prompted them to take action.
"It was a horrible experience, but at least something good came out of it," said Smith, of Bella Vista, Arkansas.
Michael Royal, 26, of Olathe, Kansas still faces charges and was released on $50,000 bond.
Call signs
Ever wondered why Australian call signs start with the letter V?
Radio call signs are allocated on an international basis - Australia was originally allocated the block of VHA-VKZ at the London Radio Conference of 1912.
Many former UK colonies such as Canada, Australia, South Africa and British India were allocated call signs from the V series at the 1912 conference.
The reason? Queen Victoria had recently died - the block was allocated in her memory.
Female record
The World Sailing Speed Record Council announces the ratification of the World Record "Transatlantic West to East, single-handed female" Sailed by: Ellen MacArthur on Castorama B&Q, 21st to 29th June 2004 for and elapsed time of 7 days 3 hours 49 minutes 57 seconds and average speed: 17.09 knots.
Ellen's story is not just about sailing, rather one of human endeavour - and here it is, from land-locked Derbyshire girl to 'Yachtsman of the Year', in a flash...
"An expert skipper, electrician, sail-maker, engineer, journalist, cameraman, doctor... unfortunately though, not yet a great cook!
Survival Eating: "Saving weight is critical, eating freeze-dried foodstuffs can significantly save weight on the boat - all Ellen has to worry about is not burning the water!
Race goes on: Ellen describes moments that ultimately make her endeavours immensely satisfying: "A beautiful sunrise welcomed the day in. Inky black clouds slowly lit by an intense yellow sun... A very strong feeling of pleasure to be out here on the ocean... The sheer joy to race again and the chance to be re-living this passion... I feel just lucky to be here."
Open and shut case
A new military radio system is jamming remote-control garage doors in communities near Eglin Air Force Base, Florida. During testing of a new $5.5 million two-way radio system, homeowners in the area reported that their garage door openers failed to work or went wild by themselves.
Complaints? A Federal Communications Commission spokesperson had some bad news for local homeowners. If the Air Force is running the system within its licensed frequencies then the users of garage door openers may have to change the operating frequencies of theirs.
So, shut it!
Maritime communications
The first meeting of the Advisory Committee of the Office of Maritime Communications was held in June via teleconferencing.
Concern was expressed regarding the standard operating procedures and conversations held on marine radios. Paul Hedgcock (Proserpine) expressed concern about people holding old certificates that were not up with current technology or procedures. J Mair, Manager, pointed out that AMSA were not issuing MMSI numbers to operators holding an MROCP older than 5 years.
Policing frequencies - The public are at liberty to report in writing to the Australian Communications Authority any incident of misuse or abuse of radio frequencies and channels. Once received the ACA is obligated to investigate the matter.
Hardly fair
We Have Seen the Present, and It Does Not Work: An employer in Liverpool, England, posting a help-wanted ad at a government unemployment office was told she would have to delete a reference to "hard-working" as it is discriminatory.
Are we falling behind in political correctness and sensitivity?
Abel Pt shallow
Mariners are advised that a shallow area has been reported in the southern entrance of Abel Point Marina in the approach to Shingley Beach in approximate position Latitude 21°16.07' S, Longitude 148°42.42' E. Charts: AUS 252, 253, 268
Fitzalan Pass unlit
Mariners are advised that the lighted Special Mark buoy Fl.Y.2.5s in approximate position Latitude 20°18.7922' S, Longitude 148°56.0571' E in Fitzalan Passage which is off Whitsunday Passage has been reported to be unlit. Charts: AUS 252, 253, 254, 824
Are you experienced?
"Experience is something you don't get until just after you need it."
Fair winds to Ye!
Cap'n Dan
Wednesday, July 14, 2004
Fifteenth Tropical Shirt Regatta only weeks away
As the weeks fly by in the lead-up to the Tropical Shirt Regatta, now a month away, organisers continue to work towards ensuring the fifteenth year at Airlie Beach is a memorable one.
"The event is renowned for the northern Queensland hospitality and Airlie Beach is ready to party!” says Hog's Breath Race Week Regatta Director Andrew Palfrey.
"Over the years, the "Tropical Shirt Regatta" has shown it can put on one hell of a party. The all-important Post Race Debriefing session will start at the Tooheys New marquee. Top yachtie rock'n'country band the Wolverines will be back to entertain the crowds. The Wolverines will be racing each day on Boardroom with her famous cow pattern headsail under the watchful eye of owner John Clinton. John will also back up on drums and vocals each day.
"Hog's Breath Race Week is renowned for its racing and the other important factor of a race week, the post racing entertainment. The laid back nature of Airlie Beach provides visiting yachties with an ideal playground." Mr Palfrey said.
Renowned yachting meteorologist, Ken Batt will be onboard for Hog's Breath Race week at Airlie Beach this year. Apart from working in key roles over many years at the Bureau of Meteorology where he is currently posted at Canberra, Ken has been involved in the Americas Cup, Volvo Ocean Race and Sydney to Hobart Races. Ken will be providing forecasts for competitors each morning in a briefing at the Tooheys New Marquee.
This year Race Week will feature the Australian Sports Boat Championships and the Australian Trailerable Championships. Sports boat President Ray Jones comments 'It's looking good for the Nationals, we are expecting a top class fleet with entrants coming from as far as WA. Brisbane in 2001 has been our most northerly location for our National titles and the usual Sportsboat wild wet ride will be warm and wet at Airlie Beach'.
Entries close - Friday August 6th racing starts Friday the 13th.
Best season
'The Best Mackerel season I can remember' would be the way I describe the bite in the Whitsunday at present says Capt Ken Bryant.
"All the usual haunts for Mackerel have been on fire and even during the wrong tides when they should be off the chew for six hours. I have not seen them so thick in a long time. The large schools of bait fish can take credit for this due to the big rains we enjoyed in January, February and March."
"Not only have the Macks been entertaining us but also the Sailfish and Marlin are showing up in big numbers. We fished a father and his two sons last Wednesday for a billfish charter on Marlin Blue and saw six free jumping Sailfish, raised 5 marlin and sails, hooked up 4 of them and tagged and released 2 sailfish in a double hook-up. Once again, the bait schools were everywhere."
All over tan
The skipper-owner of a nudist charter yacht was fined 4,500 pounds plus costs for running his boat without the correct certification.
Francois Haussauer, 52, had been chartering his 45-foot yacht Scintilla in the South of France for the niche naturist market reports Yachting Monthly.
He promoted the charter via the Internet, but at Horse Ferry Road Magistrates he was found guilty of not having a certificate of competence, and not having a load line certificate. The court heard he tried to pass off customers as 'friends'.
Fined for misleading
Two men have received heavy fines for giving false information to the Department of Primary Industries and Fisheries (DPI&F).
The men pleaded guilty in the Brisbane Magistrates Court recently to providing false and misleading information to a Queensland Boating and Fisheries Patrol (QBFP) officer.
One man was fined $2000 with no conviction recorded. The other was fined $3000 and ordered to pay a further $1500 in professional costs with no conviction recorded.
QBFP field officer Graham Shield said the fines sent a strong message to people not cooperating with QBFP officers.
"The men deliberately gave me wrong and misleading information while I was investigating a separate fisheries-related matter," Mr Shield said.
"Not cooperating with inspectors who are investigating fisheries offences is taken very seriously by the Courts and the Department and these fines reflect that."
Ab-Fab
One day a man, stranded on a desert island for over ten years, sees emerging from the surf a drop dead gorgeous blonde woman wearing a wet suit and scuba gear.
She approaches the stunned guy and says to him, "How long has it been since you've had a cigarette?"
Ten years," replies the stunned man.
With that, she reaches over and unzips a waterproof pocket on her left sleeve and pulls out a pack of cigarettes.
He takes one and takes a long drag and says, "Wow! Is that good!"
And how long has it been since you've had a sip of bourbon?" she asks him.
Trembling, the castaway replies, "Ten years." She reaches over, unzips her right sleeve, pulls out a flask and hands it to him. He opens the flask, takes a long swig and says, "Wow, that's absolutely fantastic!"
She starts slowly unzipping the long zipper that runs down the front of her wet suit, looks at the man seductively and asks, "And how long has it been since you've played around?"
With tears in his eyes, the guy falls to his knees and sobs, "Oh, Wow! Don't tell me you've got golf clubs in there too."
Mackay welcomes multihulls
Mackay Marina caters for an ever-growing multihull cruising fleet. The marina offers 47 purpose built multihull berths ranging from 11-22 metres and has a current total berth capacity of 255 berths including six mega berths catering for boats of up to 50 metres.
A big boat berthing facility is planned for the marina. These larger berths will range from 28 -35 metres and a limited number will be available for purchase. A key attraction to the marina for larger boat owners is the deep-water access with a 4.5 metre draught. Stage one of a separate commercial fishing boat berthing facility is now complete. The marina development also includes four fuel wharves with 13 pumps and a five-lane public boat ramp.
The cure . . .
"The cure for boredom is curiosity. There is no cure for curiosity"
Fair winds to Ye!
Cap'n Dan
As the weeks fly by in the lead-up to the Tropical Shirt Regatta, now a month away, organisers continue to work towards ensuring the fifteenth year at Airlie Beach is a memorable one.
"The event is renowned for the northern Queensland hospitality and Airlie Beach is ready to party!” says Hog's Breath Race Week Regatta Director Andrew Palfrey.
"Over the years, the "Tropical Shirt Regatta" has shown it can put on one hell of a party. The all-important Post Race Debriefing session will start at the Tooheys New marquee. Top yachtie rock'n'country band the Wolverines will be back to entertain the crowds. The Wolverines will be racing each day on Boardroom with her famous cow pattern headsail under the watchful eye of owner John Clinton. John will also back up on drums and vocals each day.
"Hog's Breath Race Week is renowned for its racing and the other important factor of a race week, the post racing entertainment. The laid back nature of Airlie Beach provides visiting yachties with an ideal playground." Mr Palfrey said.
Renowned yachting meteorologist, Ken Batt will be onboard for Hog's Breath Race week at Airlie Beach this year. Apart from working in key roles over many years at the Bureau of Meteorology where he is currently posted at Canberra, Ken has been involved in the Americas Cup, Volvo Ocean Race and Sydney to Hobart Races. Ken will be providing forecasts for competitors each morning in a briefing at the Tooheys New Marquee.
This year Race Week will feature the Australian Sports Boat Championships and the Australian Trailerable Championships. Sports boat President Ray Jones comments 'It's looking good for the Nationals, we are expecting a top class fleet with entrants coming from as far as WA. Brisbane in 2001 has been our most northerly location for our National titles and the usual Sportsboat wild wet ride will be warm and wet at Airlie Beach'.
Entries close - Friday August 6th racing starts Friday the 13th.
Best season
'The Best Mackerel season I can remember' would be the way I describe the bite in the Whitsunday at present says Capt Ken Bryant.
"All the usual haunts for Mackerel have been on fire and even during the wrong tides when they should be off the chew for six hours. I have not seen them so thick in a long time. The large schools of bait fish can take credit for this due to the big rains we enjoyed in January, February and March."
"Not only have the Macks been entertaining us but also the Sailfish and Marlin are showing up in big numbers. We fished a father and his two sons last Wednesday for a billfish charter on Marlin Blue and saw six free jumping Sailfish, raised 5 marlin and sails, hooked up 4 of them and tagged and released 2 sailfish in a double hook-up. Once again, the bait schools were everywhere."
All over tan
The skipper-owner of a nudist charter yacht was fined 4,500 pounds plus costs for running his boat without the correct certification.
Francois Haussauer, 52, had been chartering his 45-foot yacht Scintilla in the South of France for the niche naturist market reports Yachting Monthly.
He promoted the charter via the Internet, but at Horse Ferry Road Magistrates he was found guilty of not having a certificate of competence, and not having a load line certificate. The court heard he tried to pass off customers as 'friends'.
Fined for misleading
Two men have received heavy fines for giving false information to the Department of Primary Industries and Fisheries (DPI&F).
The men pleaded guilty in the Brisbane Magistrates Court recently to providing false and misleading information to a Queensland Boating and Fisheries Patrol (QBFP) officer.
One man was fined $2000 with no conviction recorded. The other was fined $3000 and ordered to pay a further $1500 in professional costs with no conviction recorded.
QBFP field officer Graham Shield said the fines sent a strong message to people not cooperating with QBFP officers.
"The men deliberately gave me wrong and misleading information while I was investigating a separate fisheries-related matter," Mr Shield said.
"Not cooperating with inspectors who are investigating fisheries offences is taken very seriously by the Courts and the Department and these fines reflect that."
Ab-Fab
One day a man, stranded on a desert island for over ten years, sees emerging from the surf a drop dead gorgeous blonde woman wearing a wet suit and scuba gear.
She approaches the stunned guy and says to him, "How long has it been since you've had a cigarette?"
Ten years," replies the stunned man.
With that, she reaches over and unzips a waterproof pocket on her left sleeve and pulls out a pack of cigarettes.
He takes one and takes a long drag and says, "Wow! Is that good!"
And how long has it been since you've had a sip of bourbon?" she asks him.
Trembling, the castaway replies, "Ten years." She reaches over, unzips her right sleeve, pulls out a flask and hands it to him. He opens the flask, takes a long swig and says, "Wow, that's absolutely fantastic!"
She starts slowly unzipping the long zipper that runs down the front of her wet suit, looks at the man seductively and asks, "And how long has it been since you've played around?"
With tears in his eyes, the guy falls to his knees and sobs, "Oh, Wow! Don't tell me you've got golf clubs in there too."
Mackay welcomes multihulls
Mackay Marina caters for an ever-growing multihull cruising fleet. The marina offers 47 purpose built multihull berths ranging from 11-22 metres and has a current total berth capacity of 255 berths including six mega berths catering for boats of up to 50 metres.
A big boat berthing facility is planned for the marina. These larger berths will range from 28 -35 metres and a limited number will be available for purchase. A key attraction to the marina for larger boat owners is the deep-water access with a 4.5 metre draught. Stage one of a separate commercial fishing boat berthing facility is now complete. The marina development also includes four fuel wharves with 13 pumps and a five-lane public boat ramp.
The cure . . .
"The cure for boredom is curiosity. There is no cure for curiosity"
Fair winds to Ye!
Cap'n Dan
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