Southern 80 competition got underway with the social classes out on the water. Racing had to be delayed today for 45 minutes due to a houseboat not being in position and a social skier out on the river. With a modified program for the remainder of the day, the racing continued.
The winner of the main event of day the Beechworth Baker’s Blitz was Hellrazor in a time of 6:44.74. This gave Hellrazor the pole position in Sunday event, which started at 12.30pm.
Sunday’s event’s went to schedule with the Superclass teams on the water from 12.30pm. Out of the 12 Superclass boats that started – 11 of them finished and with a close procession crossing the finish line, in the form of Blown Cash, Top Gun and Mistress – it made a great spectle for the spectators.
The overall winner was Hellrazor in a time of 30:37.54. Driver Mark Cranny, Observer Damien Matthews, and skiers Peter Proctor and Mick Kelly.
Second overall was the Syndicate in a time of 31:32.40. Driver Garry Rudd, Observer, Boyd Edwards, and skiers Kevin Vahtrik, and Danny Cropper.
Third overall was Stinga from the 16-19 Boys with class record time of 32:09.20, Driver Greg Houston, Observer Kevin Boylan, Skiers Jack Houston and Ben Hackett.
The weekend was an outstanding success with fantastic racing on the water, great crowds enjoying the entertainment and the athleticism of the skiers and admiration the skills of the drivers in the actual racing.
Out of the 593 entries that entered the event, 538 entries finished the course – great statistics for the weekend.
Two skiers are in a Melbourne hospital under observation, with three other competitors reporting minor injuries.
Southern 80 website for full results
by Southern 80 - 7:42 PM Sun 12 Feb 2012 GMT
Melanoma campaigner makes point by setting two new world records!
Dedicated melanoma campaigner, Jeremy Burfoot has set two new world records in his quest to raise awareness about the prolific disease.
Burfoot, an experienced PWC (Personal Water Craft) rider and a melanoma survivor, spent almost the whole day on Lake Karapiro on his new Yamaha VXR1800 Wave Runner.
In doing so he set a new world record for the fastest 1000km on a PWC. Using all of the VXR1800’s remarkable 1.8-litre power, Burfoot travelled the 1000km in just 9 hours and 48 minutes, smashing the existing record by 21 minutes and averaging more than 100km/hr.
Burfoot also rode his powerful VXR1800 to a new world record for the longest distance travelled on a PWC in six hours. Burfoot covered an incredible 618km in the time, an astonishing 106km more than the previous record.
Burfoot, who is now waiting for his two new world records to be ratified by the Guinness World Record authorities, says his main aim in setting the records is raise awareness about the deadly effects of melanoma, especially on middle-aged Kiwi men.
'Around 70% of the melanoma diagnosed in New Zealand is in over 50-year-olds and mostly in men,' he says. 'Kiwi men think they are invincible but I can assure them they are not.'
Burfoot urged the wives, partners and children of males over-50 to keep an close eye out for any skin changes and, if they see any, to get them promptly checked out by a skin specialist.
Burfoot was also full of praise for his new VXR1800 water vehicle and for the support he received from Yamaha Motor NZ Ltd.
'Yamaha’s new VXR1800 is the very best PWC package. It was magnificent to ride, with no bad traits at all.
'The VXR1800 was not only very reliable, it was also incredibly economical. We used just 50 litres of fuel per hour – and that was at WOT (Wide open throttle) the whole time!'
by Greg Fenwick Yamaha Motor NZ - 11:19 PM Sun 12 Feb 2012 GMT
Gold Coast to Brisbane all set for February 25 start
'The Great Race, from the Gold Coast to Brisbane, is open to dinghies and multihulls.' Southport YC
The Gold Coast to Brisbane race is deemed 'The Great Race' and is Australia's most entertaining and challenging marathon for off the beach dinghies and catamarans. The event is set to offer a prize pool that includes $5000 in cash and a beachside holiday retreat.
Scheduled for February 25 and staged out of Southport Yacht Club’s Sailing Academy at Hollywell, the Great Race will take the big fleet of small boats on a 70-kilometre inshore course north from the Gold Coast to Royal Queensland Yacht Squadron, on Moreton Bay.
The initial stage takes the fleet along the narrow channels that meander through the spectacular Gold Coast Broadwater, and once that distance is covered it’s a charge across the Bay to the finish line off Manly.
The line honours boat in the F18 catamaran division will take away a $2000 prize while the corrected time winners in both the mono and multihull divisions will each receive $1000.
This is the eighth time The Great Race has been staged and this year organisers are hoping for a fleet of more than 80 boats from throughout Queensland and interstate. The current race record is 2hrs 57m 18s for multihulls and 3hrs 44m 48s for monohulls. The majority of the fleet usually takes between four and six hours to complete the course.
The chosen date for the race has favourable tidal conditions for much of the day.
Entries are open to all off-the-beach dinghies with a yardstick rating less than or equal to 109, and all off-the-beach multihulls with a yardstick no higher than 100. A fun social agenda is also being planned around the race. To enter go to the Southport Yacht Club website.
by Kelvin Holdt 10:18 PM Sun 5 Feb 2012 GMT
Syndication – the solution for time-pressed families
'The fun and cameraderie are what syndication is all aobut!'
Sharon and John Russell, who together have run Riviera Syndication since 1999, spent a fun-filled two weeks onboard the newly syndicated Riviera 5800 Sport Yacht, out of Hamilton Island.
As John observes, syndication has proven to be a good option for the astute buyer in the current market. 'We’re constantly hearing from our owners that they couldn’t use any more time on their boats than syndication provides,' he explains.
'It is also a great benefit to have your boating booked in on the calendar so you know when it is happening and you make sure you do it, unlike many boats that spend most of their lives unused. Why pay for 100% of your boat and maintenance when you only use it 10% of the time. With syndication you only pay approximately 10%of the cost and have Riviera Syndication take care of all the work.'
Despite across the board reports of lower margins and static if not declining sales, John says the boating community was out in force, with boats sailing the Whitsundays. 'Hamilton Island was as busy as ever during the festive season. I think it is important to remember that although business is not as brisk as it was a few years ago, it has not stopped. People are still buying things and spending money so it is not all doom and gloom.'
In fact, syndication is proving appealing for people entering the market or boaties who can’t commit to sole ownership at this stage in their lives.
'We are fortunate to have had the best 18 months in business since we started syndication in 1999,' says John. 'People are recognising the benefits, resulting in us purchasing three new Riviera 5800 Sport Yachts and one new Riviera 5000 in the past 18 months.'
Riviera too are benefiting. 'They are very happy with the addition of syndication, which allows new owners to enter the brand at a more moderate cost. Many of these owners are taught their boating skills through our training and ongoing assistance and then have the confidence to purchase outright themselves.'
Friends, family and fellow syndication owners
In 2012, Riviera Syndication is planning to add a new Riviera 5000 Sport Yacht to its Sydney fleet, and another at Sanctuary Cove.
'We are also planning a smaller flybridge syndicate priced at under $100,000 per share to join our Riviera 5800 at Hamilton Island.'
Then there’s the introduction of 'Syndication by Design', which allows new owners to choose the boat model, location and number of partners. 'This new product is proving popular with syndicates as small as two owners.'
The tough times are not over, and there may never be a return to the optimism of the 90s. 'This is a market to be conservative and focus on making sure that our existing clientele is being exceptionally well cared for and are getting the most from their involvement,' says John. 'It’s not all doom and gloom and the more we spread the good news, the quicker confidence will return and we all benefit.'
by Jeni Bone 10:57 PM Fri 20 Jan 2012 GMT
Queensland study reveals higher fish numbers in green zones
Griffith University PhD student, Andrew Olds says he has found a large increase in fish numbers where coral reefs and mangroves are close together and protected by marine reserves.
From his studies on Moreton Bay marine reserves around Brisbane and the Gold Coast in south-east Queensland, Olds says the results are applicable to similar habitats on the Queensland coastline.
'We found that compared to areas that were open to fishing, we had two to four times as many of those fish in protected areas where these habitats were close together,' he explains. 'But in protected areas where they were further apart, we didn't see anywhere near that sort of increase in fish abundance.
'For the central part of Moreton Bay and other areas like that, say Hervey Bay to the north, you can have a big effect on your fish numbers if you protect areas of mangroves and coral reefs that are close together. That's for things like yellow fin bream, moses perch, black rabbit fish, which are things people like to catch out on the bay at the weekend.'
Olds states his research is important for future marine planning. 'In a lot of the areas along the coast, we do have quite a large number of green zones, but I think a study like this indicates we can potentially improve the way they work by looking at where we put them in those areas.'
More at www.griffith.edu.au
3:51 PM Fri 9 Dec 2011
Lights Camera Action, 'The Boat Show' is ready to roll
Marine Qld is launching the industry’s own TV show, The Boat Show, in conjunction with South East Queensland station, 31Digital. The first in the 12-part series airs Thursday 24 November at 7.30pm (EST) on Channel 44 and can be viewed in South East Queensland – Tweed to Sunshine Coast including Brisbane.
It will also be made available for viewing online post-airing at www.31.com.au and eventually on Marine Qld’s site.
'The purpose of the program is to sell the lifestyle,' explains Don Jones, CEO of Marine Qld. 'Queenslanders love nothing more than getting out on the water and through The Boat Show, we aim to showcase all the family fun and health benefits our marine based lifestyle has to offer – from kayaking to powerboat racing and everything in between!'
The format includes a panel discussion about various topics, such as getting started in boating, marinas and their worth to communities, joining a boat club, learning to sail at every level, kids and families and destinations such as cruising and inland waterways.
Guests have included Don Jones, CEO Marine Qld, Sharon Russell, President of Marine Qld, Matthew Hodson from John Crawford Marine and Jeni Bone, editor of MarineBusiness-World.com
Also appearing throughout the series, Fisheries Minister and keen angler, Craig Wallace, V8 Supercar driver, Jamie Whincup and world-renowned sailor and author, Rob Mundle. Other personalities will be interviewed throughout the season, with stories from their boating adventures.
'As we head in to summer, we hope this series will inspire people to try something new and get out on the water and have some fun,' adds Don Jones. 'There are so many options. Getting in to boating is easier than you think!'
Gold Coast Marine Centre rebranded as The Boat Works
Boasting new infrastructure and an expansion of services, the Gold Coast Marine Centre has unveiled their new identity and direction as The Boat Works, a comprehensive flagship marine service.
Tenants, contractors, staff and management witnessed a first look at the new name and branding with signage revealed onsite the Coomera facility within the Gold Coast’s internationally renowned Marine Precinct.
'There was an extremely positive response to our new branding. All the key players involved seem very excited about the new era for our centre,' says David Whyte, General Manager of The Boat Works.
'We believe that our new name and identity better represents the comprehensive and industry leading offering of marine services that the business now provides.'
Situated in the marine hub of South East Queensland, The Boat Works offers an innovative boatyard, marina, boat storage and business opportunities in the form of retail and factory space leasing options across 9.2 hectares of sheltered Coomera riverfront. The change comes after 10 years of successful operation as the Gold Coast Marine Centre and substantial growth and investment in the onsite facility.
'With the recent completion of our new refit bays and retail factories, The Boat Works is now a complete one-stop-shop for servicing, repairs, refits, storage and new boat builds up to 85 feet in length,' says Whyte.
The first grade facilities include a conventional 70 tonne Boat Lift that works in tandem with a 45 tonne Sea Lift, which is the first of its kind in the Southern Hemisphere.
The purpose-built Sea Lift precisely handles wide-beam vessels like catamarans, houseboats and larger commercial craft, moving them safely out of the water so work can take place. It allows a broad range of craft to receive out-of-the-water services, including all types of commercial and pleasure craft, mono and multi hull, up to 85 feet in length.
The Boat Works now maintains a professional marine village complete with a boat supplies store and a vast array of specialist marine trades and local businesses operating in one efficient and modern space. Qualified marine engineers, plumbing, electrical specialists and talented boat builders all conduct business from the complex.
The space has also seen recent growth in retail factories that include recognized brands like Lightwave, Kingfisher, Belize and Fairline.
Professional services covering all facets of the marine industry are now available onsite. One boat can receive any number of services, from simple repairs to major overhauls, engineering work, painting or antifouling. The Boat Works directly offers hardstand space, three types of storage options and berths for casual or long-term leases.
The Boat Works is a rare comprehensive solution in the Australian marine industry. It has maintained competitive prices and a longstanding philosophy of personal and genuine customer care. These core qualities have encouraged clients to travel from further afield to use the growing services the complex offers.
More at www.theboatworks.com.au
The Haines Group has branched out into caravans, with the Seachange 640 Elite.
Since starting out in the marine industry in the 1960’s, The Haines family of Brisbane have created an enviable empire over more than 50 years and many household names along the way.
The current brands which are either manufactured or distributed by The Haines Group from SE QLD are Signature Boats, Traveller Boats, Seafarer Boats, Designer Stainless, Suzuki Marine Outboards and Walker Bay Inflatables.
Approximately 6 months ago the management team took the decision to enter a new market. They looked at industries where our expertise and existing manufacturing techniques could be easily transferred. The result 6 months later is Seachange Caravans with the first model, the Seachange 640 Elite, rolling off the production line.
You can be one of the first to view a Seachange at the Caravan and Camping show which is running until the 23rd October 2011 at the RNA Showgrounds in Brisbane.
The Seachange 640 Elite is the first caravan to roll out of The Haines Group factory in SE QLD. The Haines Group may be new to caravanning but they are old masters at manufacturing some of Australia’s best products.
The 640 Elite was developed through a joint consultation program with caravan dealers. The Haines Group (THG) took a market led approach to give the caravan industry and ultimately caravan buyers the product they wanted. Once we had the long list of design features, the ‘must have’ list and the ‘must not have’ list we set about creating the model you see today.
From the ground up this is a proudly Australian creation. The hybrid chassis was welded together at our factory in SE QLD. In fact all the major components including the chassis, upholstery, cabinetry, walls, roof and shower cubicle have been manufactured by our dedicated team in Wacol, QLD. We have also sourced the best parts and fittings to complete the package. One of the most crucial elements, the suspension and shock absorbers, are from proven suppliers to the caravan industry.
And of course, we make beautiful boats so we had to make a beautiful caravan, just don’t try and back it down a boat ramp.
11:51 AM Thu 20 Oct 2011 GMT
Two Gold Coast boat shows united in aim for sales
The advent of the Gold Coast Marine Expo, scheduled for November 4-6 at Coomera marine precinct, has prompted a flurry of opinions as to whether the region is big enough for two shows. Here, those involved set minds to rest and explain that two event offer twice the opportunity for the public to sample the boating lifestyle and reach a broader cross section of people, at both ends of the year.
Each May, Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show, now an iconic globally recognised event with 23 years under its belt, known as a calendar highlight and member of IFBSO, is a magnet for national and international visitors, manufacturers and delegates seeking to do business.
The Gold Coast Marine Expo, an initiative of Gold Coast manufacturers, dealers and Gold Coast City Marina describes itself as a 'much needed boost to boat sales at the start of summer'.
According to Dean Leigh Smith, director of GCCM and one of the organisers of the Marine Expo, there is no shadow of competition in the genesis of a second boat show.
'We are not trying to emulate Sanctuary Cove or replace them. It’s a different kind of show, with working displays and hands-on experiences. We are pitching an entirely different boating experience and trying to attract people who may not spend $20 to go to a boat show.'
He says those involved are thoroughly supportive of Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show.
'We are all 110% behind Sanctuary Cove and work very closely with them. The Gold Coast City Marina and Leigh Smith Cruiser Sales are enthusiastic supporters. We have been involved since the very beginning and will definitely be exhibiting next year.'
South east Queensland is big enough for the two shows, states Leigh Smith.
'This is the first time in our city we have a seasonally relevant opportunity to promote boating, which is a lifestyle activity. November is the ideal time of year for dealers to offer up new, used and trade ins in time for Christmas. There has been a hole in the marketplace and we have set about filling it.
'Our show gives people who might not have the opportunity to exhibit and meet the market. We have a ready-made boat show, her with two waterfront sites. This is all about getting people out on the water, however they want to do that.
'We can all see the greater good in this and it has been a great opportunity to work together to network and grow everybody’s business together. I am sure we will coexist for a long time.'
Don Jones, Chief Executive Officer, Marine Queensland, agrees, praising the GC Marine Expo for harnessing 'the best minds and brands in the industry' to make it a reality.
'My sense is that there is scope for more than one show in the Gold Coast region,' he says. 'The key issue in my opinion is having a clear understanding on who the show is targeted towards - both exhibitors and visitors.
'There is no denying the success and credentials of Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show. Like most long running events, there is always a need to reinvent itself to keep its appeal fresh for exhibitors and visitors alike. I am sure that the organising team at SCIBS will do everything in their power to ensure its continued success on the national and international marine event calendar.
'The Gold Coast Marine Expo is about to enter the market in a few weeks. It may well get a baptism of fire given the difficult trading conditions in the industry at present.
'Notwithstanding this, I believe that there continues to be segments of the industry that may be attracted to a well-positioned and organised event.'
Continues Jones: 'From Marine Queensland’s perspective, increased competition in the event marketplace should be an important catalyst to motivating the event management teams to deliver first class events in the region.'
Jones says it’s highly unlikely that 'the new kid on the block will replace SCIBS'.
'The market should be able to accommodate two well positioned and organised events. I don’t see that the two events need necessarily compete head to head. The winner will be the whole marine industry, the Gold Coast region and the boating public.'
From Sanctuary Cove, Sue Thomson, General Manager Events and Marketing, says she and the SCIBS team view the GC Marine Expo as 'extremely positive' for the boating industry and recreational boating in the region.
'If additional boat shows create an environment where people are buying boats and other products, we are all for it. The Expo will bring people to the boating hub of the Gold Coast and shed insight on building and enjoying boats at the Coomera precinct.
'It’s a great time of year to remind people about how boating enriches our lives and is a great family pastime.'
2:27 AM Tue 11 Oct 2011 GMT
Andrew Short Marine closes its doors
Iconic Sydney dealership, Andrew Short Marine has gone into liquidation, only days before the second anniversary of Andrew Short's death in a yachting accident.
A devastated Matthew Short, who joined the family firm to assist MD, Kylie Short following the death of his brother Andrew in 2009, confirmed the company was no longer trading after shutting its doors for the final time last Thursday.
Matthew Short said that the demise of this iconic company was due to 'the loss of Andrew in the yachting tragedy' among other factors.
'Andrew was a hands on operator and was exceptionally good at his trade and was unable to be replaced. The Global Financial Crisis saw ASM with extensive and expensive 'trade in' stock and aged new floor stock which could not be sold at anywhere near the' trade in' values given on sale of the new boats.'
Added to that, the prevalence of the 'Grey Import' market with cheap USA distressed stock purchased over the internet, which Matthew said 'has all but killed the domestic market for second hand boats'.
'Then there is the exceptionally high interest rates charged on floor plan combined with the over priced stock compounded the problem of viability,' he continued. 'Financiers were unsympathetic to additional loans as required at a critical time when a shortfall in funds was evident months before it came to reality. This is understandable in our current economic climate.'
All these issues were compounded by what Matthew described as 'the stigma of people associating ASM as being in receivership, when ASM wasn't in receivership'.
'That finally diminished the company's ability to trade on as the public lost confidence in the company, plus the departure of key staff at critical times leaving a void within the company.'
1:21 PM Thu 6 Oct 2011
Sydney International Boat Show opens in eight days
Australia’s largest boat show will open its doors on the 28th July at the Sydney Exhibition Centre in Darling Harbour, Sydney.
The show, now in its 44th year will feature a vast array of boats and all the gear for them. The show will also feature a fabulous line up of entertainment and activities for all the family to enjoy.
Displays not to be missed include the Nautilus Marine Insurance Fishing Clinic, the Better Boating Lounge, daily Musto fashion shows, the fabulous Walk of Fame, the Discover Boating Tours, a display of historic vessels, an exhibition of marine photography and Club Marine cooking demonstrations.
More than 280 exhibitors, among them the cream of the industry’s manufacturers, retailers, importers and distributors will display their goods and services to upwards of 75,000 visitors.
Organiser, Domenic Genua, says exhibitor numbers are on par with 2010. 'We have the same number as last year. What is very notable though, is the desire by the industry to launch a lot of new products - things that have never been released before. There's a lot of new technology to go with boating. Companies and brands are going out of their way to attract visitors to the show.'
The biggest of them all nationally, this show has proven its credentials as a 'selling show', states Genua.
'Our research shows 40% of visitors - and that was 73,000 last year - arrive with purchase intention. That's a big target audience and a nice cross section of people, from committed boaties to sometime boaties to people who have no boating experience at all - which is why we provide something for everybody.'
All six halls of the massive Darling Harbour Exhibition Centre will be packed with many millions of dollars worth of marine related products, from boats to boat trailers, fishing tackle to marine electronics, all manner of marine engines and general boating accessories of all shapes, sizes and applications.
On the placid waters of adjoining Cockle Bay, the largest marina built specifically for a boat show, will be home to the ‘dream boats’, blue water cruisers, power and sail, many carrying prices that equal a Sydney waterfront!
The show is proudly supported by NSW Maritime.
For further information visit the show’s website, www.sydneyboatshow.com.au or call the boat
information line on 1300 7BOATS (26287), but read on for some ideas you should incorporate into your visit:
Clean Sweep for NSW Marinas in National Awards
Empire Marina Bobbin Head has again been awarded the prestige title of Australian Marina of the Year in the category for marinas over 140 berths by the Marina Industries Association of Australia at the awards dinner in Melbourne on Tuesday.
Winners in other categories included Soldiers Point Marina in the under 140 berths category and the Royal Motor Yacht Club Broken Bay in the Clubs category. The Club Marine Australian Marina of the Year is the peak national award for marinas with a rigorous judging criteria including facilities and infrastructure, customer service and satisfaction, environmental practices, risk management, training and staff development, industry involvement and community contribution. A panel of eight independent judges from around the country assesses the awards.
This is the second consecutive win for Empire Marina’s 200-berth marina at historic Bobbin Head in Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park just 24 km from Sydney CBD and comes on the back of the company celebrating its fifth birthday at Bobbin Head. Since acquiring the facility from the Halvorsen family in 2006 Empire Marinas have completed a major upgrade and redevelopment of the facility, the majority of which was completed in 2008.
In accepting the award Director of Empire Marinas, Darren Vaux said, 'It is such a great honour to be a part of an industry that strives for excellence in all aspects of its business. Winning this award for the second time affirms our vision to operate our marina and service facility to exceed our stakeholders’ expectations and it motivates us to strive to achieve more and always be on the top of our game.'
The Bobbin Head marina has a number of unique facilities that makes the marina inviting for its customers and the community. The marina boasts 200 berths, wide fairways and 10 swing moorings and has a large hardstand service facility that sets new benchmarks for environmental sensitivity. The public walkway along the waterfront includes a Discovery Trail that chronicles the history of the precinct including Aboriginal rock carvings that are visible in the marina’s security car park. The licensed waterfront restaurant provides the perfect venue to relax and watch the world go by at this vibrant marina.
Stephen Smith, Operations Director at Empire Marinas, picked up a further honour at Marinas 2011 conference when he was confirmed as a Certified Marina Manager by the Global Marina Institute. This international qualification recognises the highest level of professionalism in the marina industry and Stephen is one of only 270 people in the world to be awarded this qualification. 'Our mission is to constantly set new benchmarks for service and facilities in the marina industry’ he said. ' We are seeking to find new products and services to meet the needs of our customers.'
A good example of this product diversification is the range of berthing options at Bobbin Head. Customers can secure berthing from one day to 25 years with the recent release of 2 year and 10 year berthing options proving very popular with customers seeking to secure their berthing future. There is limited availability for longer-term berths at the marina and a waiting list for larger vessels. This is not surprising with a report by NSW maritime published in 2010 predicting a dramatic shortfall in marina berths in Broken Bay over the next 15 years.
'We have just one 25 year berth lease remaining for sale and the ten and five year deals continue to be snapped up by buyers wanting to secure tenure at today’s rates' said Mr Smith, who described owning a berth in the national park as a ‘once in a lifetime opportunity’.
If winning Australian Marina of the Year twice in succession is any recommendation, the waiting list at Bobbin head can only be expected to grow.
More at www.empiremarinas.com.au
BIG4 Parks Welcomes Travellers with Pets
QUEENSLAND caravanner Bronwyn McMillin and her pooch Chilli have welcomed BIG4's change of heart over its longstanding no-dogs policy.
Until now, Bronwyn, husband David and their six-year-old Mexican Chihuahua-Silky cross – along with thousands of other travellers with pets – have been barred from Australia's largest network of caravan and holiday parks.
But all that will change next month when, after what the chain called "detailed research and analysis", selected BIG4 parks will be allowed to throw down the welcome mat following a 32-year ban.
Bronwyn – who regularly dyes Chilli's tail bright purple "as a way of breaking the ice when we meet people" – at a Jayco Owners (SE Queensland) Club weekend rally in Caboolture, north of Brisbane.
"He just loves being on the road and travels everywhere with us," she explained. "But we have never been able to stay at a BIG4 park and sometimes free camp instead.
"We have caravanned all over Queensland and out west and Chilli, who has been with us since he was just seven weeks old, has never been a problem."
The McMillins, from Heathwood in Brisbane, travel in a 21ft Jayco Sterling Outback and said they would now consider staying at a BIG4 park.
"There's no doubt BIG4 has been losing business with its outdated approach to pets and I am very pleased they are finally waking up to the times," Bronwyn said.
BIG4 Holiday Parks chief executive Ray Schleibs said the decision on pets had not been taken lightly.
"It has been made due to recognition that society's attitude towards travelling with dogs has changed," he explained.
"More dogs are travelling and holidaying with couples and families, with many seeing dogs as substitute children or loyal companions.
"As industry leaders, BIG4 is committed to evolving and adapting to suit the needs of all travellers by offering our member parks the option of welcoming dogs."
Sanctuary Cove Boat Show promotes easy transport options
Visitors to the 23rd Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show will have an additional easy transport option this year when the event opens in less than two weeks on Thursday, May 19.
The 2011 Show has attracted more than 380 exhibitors with the two large pavilions and hardstand space fully booked.
'This year we have introduced a new transport Park ‘n’ Ride option to make it even easier and more convenient to visit the Show,' said Sanctuary Cove General Manager Marketing and Events Sue Thomson.
This year, there are two Park ‘n’ Ride options for visitors driving to the Gold Coast Show. As in past years, visitors coming south of Sanctuary Cove can take Exit 66 from the M1 Motorway to Parklands in the Gold Coast and then take the upgraded luxury coach transfers to and from the Show.
Visitors coming north of Sanctuary Cove can now take Exit 54 from the M1 Motorway to the Foxwell Road Exit and then travel to the Riviera factory car park via Shipper Drive and Waterway Drive. A regular half-hour ferry will operate across to the Boat Show precinct. The Park ‘n’ Ride parking and transfers are included within the ticket price.
Other transport options include helicopter transfers, water ferries and taxis and a complementary shuttle transfer for train ticket holders from Helensvale station (transport options here additional to Show ticket).
'This year’s Show promises to showcase the very best in the marine industry,' said Ms Thomson.
'We are delighted to welcome exhibitors from Asia, North America and the Pacific region and we are expecting some VIP delegations from countries such as China.'
The four-day Show, staged by Sanctuary Cove in Queensland, runs from Thursday, May 19 to Sunday, May 22 from 9am to 5pm daily.
Visitors can view displays in the largest temporary event structure erected in Australia for an annual event – the 5000sqm MarineBusiness-World.com pavilion. A separate Superyacht Australia pavilion offers a range of services and suppliers to this sector of the market.
There are more than 160 boats on water plus hundreds more boats, watercraft and marine products through the waterfront Marine Village.
Some of the newly-announced products at the Show include the Australian release of a Cabo 40 Flybridge ZEUS; the world release of the Argus E35; the Australian launch of Lightwave Yachts’ 45 GT, a trim tab version of the Lightwave 45 Grande Sailing Catamaran; the world release of the Simrad touch-screen NSS Sport; while Ocean Solutions showcases the new Comfort Seat Lounge from W. I. C in the Netherlands.
This year’s Marine Queensland boating and fishing seminar program is expected to draw interest. Entry is included within the Boat Show ticket price.
Marine Queensland CEO Don Jones will present three topics: 'Grey Imports, What is Being Done to Protect Australian Industry'; 'Grey Imports, the Pitfalls of Importing Your Own Boat'; and 'Marine Parks: Closures and Exclusion Zones'. All these sessions will be delivered within the Village Theatre.
The fishing seminar program includes Paul O’Leary who will talk about 'Extreme Kayak Fishing'; Dave Downie discussing 'Big Taylor from Surf Beaches' and Rob and Leeann Payne addressing 'Wild Caught Barra – Kakadu to the Pilbara' and 'Planning that Round Australia Fishing Trip'.
As in past years, an International Business Lounge will operate to assist international buyers and businesses to network and make valuable contacts with Australian companies. This facility is provided through a partnership between the Queensland Government’s Department of Employment, Economic Development and Innovation (DEEDI), Austrade, the Gold Coast City Council (Business GC), the Australian International Marine Export Group (AIMEX), Superyacht Australia, Superior Jetties and Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show.
Online ticket prices are $A22 one day adult; $A19 one day concession; $A40 two-day adult and $A75 four-day adult. Children 14 years and under have free entry. VIP packages are available online. These offer a slight discount from gate prices of $A25 adult one day; $A20 one day concession; $A45 two day adult and $A80 four day adult.
Club Marine is a sponsor. Media partners include BoatPoint.com.au, Channel Seven, 4KQ, Trade a Boat and 92.5 Gold FM. Maritime Safety Queensland is a government supporter. Hawker Pacific and Barz Optics are supporters.
The $A2 billion Sanctuary Cove, located on the northern Gold Coast, is Australia’s leading and most successful master-planned community. Sanctuary Cove was acquired by current owners Mulpha Sanctuary Cove (Developments) Pty Limited in 2002. MSCD, an arm of Mulpha Australia Limited, which is a subsidiary of Malaysian listed Mulpha International BHD, has invested significantly in Sanctuary Cove over recent years, resulting in a major transformation designed to ensure the pre-eminent community remains at the forefront of master-planned living in Australia.
For full details of all programs and tickets view www.sanctuarycoveboatshow.com.au
Angler stalked by a Croc!
Every territorian has a right to fish at his favourite spot, but one fisherman is happy never to go back to his.
Recreational fisherman Regis Martin was stalked by a big crocodile off the rocks at East Point, in Darwin (AUS). He couldn't guess the size, but said 'this one was bigger than me'.
'It seemed to me as if the distance between us was less than his size,' Mr Martin said. 'It really spooked me. He was so close I could see his eyes. I could see him looking at me.'
'It's terrible. My favourite fishing spot for a few years. I am wondering whether to go back.'
Mr Martin was fishing on the rocks past the military museum. '(I) decided to go home any way, didn't feel like staying there,' he said. 'This crocodile was definitely not shy.' Mr Martin warned other fishermen on the fishingterritory.com forum.
Ranger Joey Buckerfield said they didn't get any crocs out of harbour traps when they inspected them on Thursday.
'If we get a number of calls we would go out and harpoon the croc,' he said. 'But he might have got into one of the arms. We've a few traps out there.'
Mr Buckerfield said there were a few recent croc sightings off Larrakeyah. There have been 114 crocs captured this year, 45 in April and 22 last week. The biggest was a 4.5m croc at Cascade Falls, in Litchfield National Park, and the biggest in the harbour was 4.3m long at West Arm.
by Conor Byrne 8:02 PM Sun 1 May 2011 GMT
Veteran ski racer Noel Griffin remains in a Melbourne hospital
‘Blazen’ was engulfed in flames during the Southern 80 water ski race last weekend.
The 21’ Force with Noel driving, Bernie Simpson observing and skiers Chris Stout and Grant Turner ‘out the back’ had the previous day won the Baker’s Blitz and was a strong favourite to take out the main event on the Sunday.
‘Blazen’ was about 12 second ahead of ‘Hellrazor’ when, only about six minutes into the race, flames were seen to engulf the boat; observer Bernie Simpson was seen to leap over the side, but Noel was temporarily trapped by his steering wheel and took considerable longer to free himself and leave the burning boat.
He received severe burns to his arms and back, while Bernie escaped with less serious burns, mainly to one arm and hand.
'He was just a bit scalded,' team member Dennis Kelly told me.
Sadly, ‘Blazen’ is no more.
The boat and its big block, 1500hp, 540 cubic inch engine were virtually totally destroyed.
'It sure doesn’t look too pretty,' Dennis declared.
'The 6 leg and lower drive unit is about all we’ll be able to salvage.'
‘Hellrazor’, Mark Cranny (driver) and Damien Matthews (observer) aboard towed Jason Walmsley and Peter Proctor to their second successive Super Class victory in a time of 30 minutes 58 seconds, just outside their 30.32 race record set last year.
Grant Patterson and James Buser, behind ‘Top Gun’ came home second, just ahead of Michael Gunther and Christopher Taylor up behind ‘Blowncash’.
Fortunately for Chris Stout and Grant Turner, Noel Griffin (who will make a full recovery from his injuries) owns another boat.
We can only hope its name will not again come to the fore.
It is called ‘Burnin’ and with Gary Holzwart driving it will tow Chris and Grant in the Mildura 110 over the Easter weekend.
As is often the case, Super Class proved tough for man and machine with three of the 11 original entrants failing to finish and another three no making it to the start line.
The Southern 80 of course featured a multitude of classes, including various engine sizes and horsepower through the gender and age groups.
A full list of results can be found at the website, www.southern80.com.au
7:44 AM Wed 20 Apr 2011 GMT
Top 10 check list for Easter boating safety from Marine Rescue NSW
Easter is always busy on the water and this extra long Easter and Anzac Day weekend could be even busier than ever and the more boats there are on the water, the more risk there is for something to go wrong. So Marine Rescue NSW has prepared a Top 10 Check List for Easter Boating Safety.
1. Tell your local Marine Rescue radio base when you go out and when you’ll be back. Log On with your marine radio so Marine Rescue knows you’re out there and when you’re due back;
2. Wear your lifejackets. Lifejackets save lives – but only when you wear them. NSW regulations require you to wear lifejackets at certain times. Marine Rescue NSW recommends you wear them at all times when boating;
3. Travel at a safe speed and keep a good look out. A safe speed is one where you can stop fast in an emergency. A good look out means the skipper is always aware of conditions around the boat;
4. Check your mechanicals and electricals before you go. More breakdowns are caused by mechanical and electric faults than any other cause. And when you break down at sea you can’t just pull over safely to the side of the road. See www.50pointcheck.com.au for the Boating Industry Association safety check;
5. Check your safety equipment before you go. Lifejackets; marine radio; anchor and chain or line (attached to the boat!); emergency flares; EPIRB if going out 2 nautical miles or more; bailing bucket; fire bucket; fire extinguisher; navigation lights, orange V-sheet; waterproof torch. These are all mandatory and smart skippers will also have First Aid and Tool Kits on board;
6. Make sure your fuel is fresh. Old fuel causes serious problems that can leave you stranded at sea. This is a common problem with fuel tanks for outboards. The Boat Owners Association says bio fuels are also causing some concern. See article on www.boaters.org.au ;
7. Call your local Marine Rescue radio base for a radio check. The Marine Rescue operator will tell you if your radio signal is strong and clear – or if it’s not, so you can fix it before you need it;
8. Check the weather forecast before you go. Go to www.bom.gov.au first. Then listen for weather updates on your marine radio or call your local Marine Rescue base for the latest information;
9. Know your position. If you break down out there or any other emergency strikes, we need to know where you are to come and help. If you don’t know where you are, it’s harder for help to reach you.
10. Take extreme care crossing bars. If you’ve never crossed the bar you want to cross, do not attempt it without getting local advice. Then prepare and plan your crossing. If in doubt, don’t go out.
Enjoy safer boating with Marine Rescue NSW. Contact your local Marine Rescue unit.
For a full list of all volunteer marine rescue units in NSW, go to Marine Rescue NSW website
by Ken McManus Share 7:19 PM Tue 19 Apr 2011
How to train your dog for life aboard
When sailors think about taking their dog with them – whether for an afternoon daysail, a weekend trip, or an extended cruise – the first question is usually what to do about the dog’s bathroom needs. After all, it probably won’t be possible to take Fido ashore every time he needs to go.
The usual recommendation is to train Fido to go on a piece of carpet or Astroturf on the bow. But that begs the question: how do I teach my dog to use that area? Just putting down a piece of carpet and showing it to the dog usually ends in frustration for both dog and owner, with the all-too-frequent result being that either plans are made to only cruise where the dog can be taken ashore two or three times a day or the dog gets left behind with a family member or friend. Still, some dogs do learn, so it has to be possible.
Finally, someone’s willing to give detailed instructions for teaching your dog. Carolyn Shearlock – who normally writes about galley issues in her blog TheBoatGalley.com – has tackled the 'how' of teaching Fido to use the carpet in her article 'Training a Dog to Be a Boat Dog.'
Most dogs love boat life – getting to go new places, meeting new people, exploring new areas, going for dinghy rides – and most cruising locales are very dog-friendly. It would be a shame to leave your best friend home when you really can teach them to use the carpet just by using their natural instincts.
This year, take your best friend with you!
TheBoatGalley.com: Website
Training a Dog to Be a Boat Dog: Website
Sir Richard Branson sets sights deep
Sir Richard Branson will revive the spirit and ambitions of his friend and fellow adventurer, Steve Fossett with exploration of the deepest points of the world’s oceans, in the high-tech submersible 'Deep Flight Challenger'.
The concept was just four weeks from ocean trials when Fossett disappeared in September of 2007. It had been thoroughly tested at US Department of Defense facilities and was deemed strong enough to withstand water pressure of up to 20,000 pounds per square inch, more even than the 16,000 PSI pressure known to be found at the bottom of the Mariana Trench.
Designed by Graham Hawkes, the Deep Flight Challenger was originally commissioned by the late Steve Fossett. Branson said at its media launch last week, he 'intends to finish what his friend started and then go on to help explore and unlock the wonders of the oceans still unknown to humankind or science'.
Virgin Oceanic submersible. - Virgin Oceanic
But unlike other Virgin ventures, Virgin Oceanic aims to explore, not commercialize, the ocean depths.
The Virgin Oceanic project will include five dives over the next two years to the deepest part of each of Earth’s five oceans. The first dive will be piloted by Chris Welsh, into the Mariana Trench in the Pacific Ocean, the deepest part of Earth’s seas.
The single person sub has an operating depth of 37,000ft (7 miles); it is capable of operating for 24 hours with aid. It is made from 8,000 pounds of carbon fiber and titanium. Unlike traditional submarines which use ballast to dive, it is a winged design, and will fly downward into the depths.
Chris Walsh, first Virgin Oceanic pilot. - Virgin Oceanic
The second dive will be bottom of the Puerto Rico Trench, and that will be piloted by Sir Richard Branson himself. This trench is the deepest spot in the Atlantic Ocean at over than 5 miles in depth.
Subsequent dives will carry a human pilot to the bottom of the Arctic, Southern and Indian oceans. Says Sir Richard: 'Less than 3% of the seafloor has been explored, and none of the deepest points of the planet have ever been explored beyond a brief visit to one. The opportunities to see and learn from these dives are monumental!'
Prior to its first deep dive, the submarine will undergo three months of pressure testing. It was noted that submarines quartz cockpit 'dome' will be under 13 million pounds of pressure, which is the weight of three space shuttles. An implosion in the depths would be fatal for the occupant.
This will be the first time since 1960 that humans have seen the Mariana Trench. On that occasion, the bathyscaphe, Trieste (which moved straight up and down like a hot air balloon) briefly touched down carrying co-pilots Don Walsh and Jacques Piccard. This time, Chris Welsh will not only to reach the deepest point on Earth, but then be able to 'fly' along the bottom of the Trench an additional 10 kilometres (nearly 6 miles).
Although the Mariana Trench is the most explored in detail, its unique combination of deep-sea features in a relatively confined area make it a rich scientific target. From blue serpentine mud volcanoes, to 700º hydrothermal vents, to a subduction zone where the Pacific plate is diving under the Philippine plate – the Mariana Trench has a lot to keep researchers busy.
In addition to the sub itself, there will also be a number of autonomous landers that will collect further scientific data and samples as well as capture footage of the submersible as it passes by.
Microbiologist Dr. Doug Bartlett of Scripps Institution of Oceanography and other scientists are keen to carry out tests on the water and bottom sediments the landers will bring back. The landers will be armed with bait, motion-activated cameras and lights, as well as sampling equipment to collect water and bottom sediments. The landers will be deployed ahead of the dive and will self-release their ballast – returning to the surface a day after the dive. With sonar locators, the sub should be able to rendezvous with the landers and see what marine life they have attracted.
The water samples they will obtain are not merely a litre or two, but the product of a pump and filter assembly that will circulate 20,000 liters through a filter fine enough to separate microbial and viral particles from the stream. Thus, a far greater amount of material is brought back and sample volumes are large enough to do DNA testing. The Scripps team will study samples brought back from the depths and look for any novel organisms as well as potentially beneficial enzymes or genes.
The Mother ship
Virgin Oceanic’s Chief Pilot, Chris Welsh, upon meeting adventurer Steven Fossett, was greatly impressed by the sight of Fossett’s giant racing catamaran, the 125' Cheyenne.
Fossett had conceived of a record-setting solo submarine dive to the bottom of the Mariana Trench in the Pacific Ocean. The project would be supported by converting his 125' racing catamaran, Cheyenne, into the mothership and support vessel. It was only fitting since Cheyenne was built to (and did) shatter sailing speed records. Now she would help break another record. Chris was instantly captivated and set his sights on completing Steve’s mission to the deepest part of the planet. He also expanded the project from a single solo dive to the current goal of five oceans, five dives, exploring the deepest depths in each of the five oceans of the world.
Virgin Oceanic mother ship Cat. - Virgin Oceanic Click Here to view large photo
Instead of just crossing the Pacific to Guam and coming back, it is likely the cat will be covering over 25,000 miles of open ocean over the next two years.
It will be Spartan conditions onboard for the crew. The catamaran has berths for a racing crew of 12 (six in each hull). The 'inside' of the cat is all within the two narrow hulls so passageways in the ship are just shoulder-width with bunks laid to one side of the hull. The hulls are mirror images of each other, with one housing a state-of-the-art navigation station and the other a minimal galley.
Out on the deck it is far from being cramped. In fact, it feels more like being underneath a giant trapeze. Slung between each hull and underneath the special sling for the sub there are large nets known as the trampoline which crew must brave to be able to move around the catamaran.
A crane rises above the mid-point, standing by to lift the 3,600 kg (8,000 lb) sub off its rolling cradle, which can slide back out of the way, and lower the sub straight down into the water through a hole in the deck, also known as 'the moon pool'.
Generators on board as well as power systems on the engines provide power to enable satellite navigation, lights, scientific equipment, music, and of course the communications systems that will allow crew to send updates from the cat as it journeys around each of the planet’s oceans.
More at www.virginoceanic.com
Mine's bigger - the world's largest line
The phrase 'Mine's bigger' was never truer. A US company has recently produced the world's largest rope, designed to make your heaviest mainsheet look like a piece of sewing cotton.
The 12-strand rope was produced for a European client, constructed on the giant 12 strand braiding machine using Cortland’s patented Plasma® synthetic fibre.
This unique rope was created from more than 52,000 individual Plasma® strands using a patented braiding technique. This exclusive braiding process combines individual 12-braided ropes into a finished 12-strand rope of exceptional strength and flexibility.
The finished size of this particular rope is 176mm with a minimum tensile strength of 1845MT (Metric Tonnes). Now that's a rope!
Despite the exceptional size, this rope is 7 to 8 times lighter than a comparable steel rope, yet is much easier to handle and splice. The rope will be used in a grommet configuration with an MBL exceeding 3044MT for heavy lift operations.
Life Jacket Designs innovation awards - see them work, live!
If you think that life jackets have to be bulky, uncomfortable or hot to wear, the winners of the 'Innovation in Life Jacket Design Competition', shown below in three separate videos, will prove you wrong.
The BoatUS Foundation and Underwriter's Laboratory recently announced the winners of their 2011 competition, and you may be surprised at how much the inventive designs break new ground.
The Competition, which began last year and was open to anyone, asked a simple question: Can you build a better life jacket? Of the original 35 entries (some from as far away as Malaysia), 15 semi-finalists were selected, and then the competition was split between the public and the experts.
Short videos of the designs were posted online for the public to pick their favorites, with the focus on choosing life jackets that were more innovative, wearable, affordable, reliable and practical.
In addition, expert judges voted for their favorite designs at the recent International Boating and Water Safety Summit held in Savannah, GA. The combined votes resulted in three winners just announced:
No.1, The See-Tee by Float-Tech Inc:
The first place winner is the 'See-Tee', a design from Jeff Betz of the Troy, NY based Float-Tech Inc. This isn't Betz's first life jacket innovation - his company started as the result of a graduate school project that designed the firm's first non-traditional inflatable life jacket based on a foul weather coat.
No. 2 The Directors Bureau's Float Coat:
Second place went to the Directors Bureau, a Los Angeles based creative consulting company that works in the film industry. Their 'Float Coat' is a windbreaker with added floatation. The Bureau, represented by Sebastian Pardo, said his firm had never delved into this type of project before. Pardo stated that their guiding strategy was to design something that, 'should always work, shouldn't require action by the person wearing the jacket, and should be fashionable.'
3 St. Thomas More High School's Aqua Buoy
Third place went to the design team of high school seniors Josh Jankowski and Nathan Karabon of St. Thomas More High School in Milwaukee, WI. Their design, which marries traditional foam floatation in a modern inflatable configuration, is a result of their school's Pathway to Engineering curriculum that is part of the national 'Project Lead the Way' program. Jankowski and Karabon's interest in designing a life jacket came from learning about the competition while doing research as part of their senior research project
Riviera Teams up for the Port Lincoln Tuna Classic
Riviera, Australia’s most awarded pleasure boat builder has teamed up with Riviera owner Peter Teakle for the annual Riviera Port Lincoln Tuna Classic.
The two day fishing event has already attracted teams from interstate and abroad and with a limit of 20 boats in the tournament, organisers are encouraging early nominations.
Event organiser Peter Teakle said schools of Southern Bluefin Tuna have already been sighted in the competition area.
'Where else in the world can five boats in two days catch 5,000kg of 16kg Southern Bluefin Tuna on 10kg lines as we did in 2007,' Peter said.
'We look forward to a great classic fishing tournament and this year we will have a spotter plane to inform all competitors of where the schools are to ensure there are plenty of fish for all.'
Port Lincoln has some of the best game fishing and cruising grounds in Australia and is home to the Southern Bluefin Tuna.
With its close proximity to the Spencer Gulf and the Great Australian Bight, Port Lincoln is a prime location for the annual Riviera Port Lincoln Tuna Classic.
A fleet of Rivieras travelling in convoy for R Marine South Australia’s Port Lincoln Owner Experience will depart Adelaide on April 21 bound for Port Lincoln. R Marine South Australia will host events such as a welcome dinner, beach party, sight-seeing helicopter rides, Harley-Davidson motorbike rides, and barbecue breakfasts before the fleet returns on April 25.
However, keen anglers among the fleet may choose to stay on for the annual Riviera Port Lincoln Tuna Classic which starts a few days later and therefore a second date of May 2 will apply.
There will be a range of trophies including one for the heaviest Southern Bluefin Tuna, highest point scoring boat, highest point scoring trailer boat, highest point scoring male angler, lady angler and junior angler.
This year’s tournament is the beginning of a new era for this event where the aspect is on family fun, education and sustainable fishing.
America's Cup: Ten teams now entered with a week to entry close
'33rd America’s Cup - Reception at San Francisco City Hall'
With the entry deadline of 31st March fast approaching, two more teams have been accepted as competitors for the 34th America's Cup.
Formal, public announcements by these two teams, revealing their identities, nationalities and plans are expected as early as next week. (Three teams are now undisclosed)
'With the deadline for entries coming at the end of this month, it's fantastic to have two more competitors in the line-up this week,' said Iain Murray, Regatta Director for the 34th America's Cup.
'This brings us up to 10 teams in the competition with a little over a week remaining before the deadline for entries.'
These two competitors for the America's Cup join ranks with ALEPH-ÉQUIPE DE FRANCE (France), Artemis Racing (Sweden), Emirates Team New Zealand (New Zealand), Energy Team (France), Mascalzone Latino (Italy), ORACLE Racing (USA), Team Australia, and one other undisclosed team.
The entry process and validation procedures are set out in the America's Cup Rules and can be found at americascup.com.
The entry period for the 34th America's Cup runs November 1, 2010 to March 31, 2011.
7:35 PM Thu 24 Mar 2011 GMT
Sardines suicide in LA a natural phenomenon, and a big mess
A 'sardine apocalypse' in which at least one million dead fish were found floating in a harbour near Los Angeles on Tuesday may have been caused by a predator, strong winds or the fish simply getting lost, according to marine experts.
Firefighters sank hoses to blast the fish to the surface while others vacuumed the carcasses and scooped them into dumpsters today in a clean-up estimated to cost about $US100,000.
The fish - mostly sardines but also mackerel and anchovies - had crammed into King Harbour at the back of Redondo Beach marina, reducing the oxygen supply in the water from eight parts to 0.7 parts per million. Without enough oxygen and as the tide went out, the fish died of suffocation.
The California Department of Fish and Game, which sent samples of the dead fish to a lab for autopsies, believed the sardines simply got lost.
Spokesman Andrew Hughan said no chemical spills or oil sheen's had been found. 'It is a naturally occurring - but unusual - event. It's just a mess,' he told local news.
As officials and locals removed the fish from the Harbour as quickly as they could - to prevent their decomposition from attracting bacteria that will take up more oxygen and threaten the survival of other marine life, sea lions and seagulls feasted on the fish.
10:13 PM Thu 10 Mar 2011
Port Hinchinbrook's boats destroyed
Boat owners and a legion of helpers are scouring jagged piles of debris at Port Hinchinbrook, many only to find heartbreak with most of the 70 boats destroyed or seriously damaged.
Situated halfway between Townsville and Cairns, Port Hinchinbrook is the gateway to Hinchinbrook Island and boasts some of the best fishing and cruising grounds on the Queensland coast. The small boutique community was home to an integrated township, resort and marina and an enclave of recreational boating.
Protected by the sea by Hinchinbrook Island, the port south of Cardwell (Ground Zero of the cyclone) suffered some of the worst damage during category 5 cyclone Yasi, with yachts flung in to the marina car park, yards and into piles like a junkyard by the seven-metre storm surge.
Hardly any of the 70 craft that were moored in the marina escaped damage when the category 5 Cyclone Yasi roared through, backed by a destructive oceanic storm surge just one hour later.
Residents who chose to remain in their waterfront homes watched in horror as boats were propelled into their yards and in some cases, through lounge rooms. Roofs were removed and as well as rain damage, the sea has gutted ground floors and dragged sand and remnants of boats inside.
Hinchinbrook couple Lindsay and Jennifer Hallam , who had evacuated to stay with friends inland, came back to their waterfront home yesterday to find a 55 ft yacht over their pool with its bow almost inside their home. Their own motor cruiser, 'In Deep', was smashed into pieces.
Event those that are intact are crushed between debris and other vessels. Queensland Emergency Services Minister Neil Roberts said there was major structural damage to many boats in the hardest-hit areas with estimates that $30 million worth of boats were damaged at Port Hinchinbrook alone.
He said the smaller boats were more likely to be rebuilt but the larger ones were probably beyond repair.
'A lot of the repairs will come to Cairns. There are facilities in Cardwell but not enough to handle the volume and quality that will be required.'
The owner of The Big Boat Shed in Cairns, Ralph Seed said they were anticipating an influx of vessels and he would most likely take on quite a few workers to cope.
'Once the insurance is sorted out, some of those boats will make their way up to Cairns for repairs in a few weeks' time,' said Seed.
According to Qld Police Service Inspector Dave Tucker, who is handling information and media in the region, there is not much left of the marina and its boats. 'Just a whole lot of boats piled up on each other and a strong smell of diesel in the harbour'.
'It’s totally off limits at the moment while police inspect the damaged vessels. It’s a complete mess.'
Of the marina itself, developed by Gold Coast identity Keith Williams in the 90s, it’s still unclear how much remains. The pontoons appear to have floated off the marina columns in the cyclonic surge and te heavy concrete structure was ripped apart by the winds and waves and pontoons were sent inland and out to sea.
About 60km north of Cardwell, the tropical hideaway Dunk Island copped a beating from Cyclone Yasi. Its restaurant, main building and guest accommodation were razed. Only the staff village resembles something like a habitable structure.
4:55 AM Sat 5 Feb 2011 GMT
Robotic glider to map flood impacts in Moreton Bay
CSIRO $200,000 coastal glider is bound for Queensland to be deployed in Moreton Bay to investigate the impact of the recent flooding on marine ecosystems.
Dr Andy Steven from CSIRO's Wealth from Oceans Flagship says the glider’s deployment is part of a research program to monitor the extent of the flood plume into Moreton Bay and assess its effects.
'This disastrous flood also provides us with a rare opportunity to understand how our marine ecosystems respond to massive inputs of fresh water and sediments,' Dr Steven says.
'The glider will generate three-dimensional maps illustrating the impact of the flooding on the marine waters receiving the flow of the Brisbane River.'
CSIRO biological oceanographer Dr Peter Thompson says there are only two of the robotic monitors in the world with this array of sensors.
'With these we can obtain a view inside the cloud of mud and debris dispersing through Moreton Bay,' Dr Thompson says.
'This will help us build better models to predict how the system is being affected now and how it will be affected in future.'
Dr Steven says the data obtained during the daily glider surveys will be used together with satellite images and other data.
'Satellite images can clearly show the surface patterns of cloudy water (turbidity) and nutrients, but a companion instrument – the glider – is required to provide a sub-surface view,' he says.
In collaboration with the Queensland Department of Environment and Resource Management, the Healthy Waterways Partnership and universities, CSIRO started deploying research teams into the bay yesterday to collect water samples to complement the glider data, satellite images and existing monitoring activities.
'We’re also aiming to establish continuous moorings at key locations to provide ongoing measurements of the bay’s health,' Dr Steven says.
'This information will help us understand the dynamics of the flood plume and its likely effects on seagrass, fish, dugong, turtles, coral and other marine flora and fauna. It will also give an idea of the bay’s resilience after this extreme event.'
CSIRO and its partners are planning to conduct a parallel research program in the Fitzroy River-Keppel Bay region using a similar glider.
Dr Thompson says the assessment will be the first major survey by the glider, purpose-built for use in Australian waters.
'We have done routine trials in Tasmanian inshore waters but the Queensland projects are really what they have been designed for – a complete shallow-water assessment during a significant marine event,' he says.
Their sensors will measure light, oxygen, temperature, salinity, nutrients, organic matter and phytoplankton.
Marine Safety Queensland chief urges caution to sailors in Moreton Bay
'Once pristine, today Moreton Bay may have submerged hazards and shifted navigational buoys - photo Matthew Watt' .
The Chief of Maritime Safety Queensland is urging sailors wishing to enter or transit Moreton Bay, to where Brisbane's floods have carried large amounts of debris, to observe extreme caution.
General Manager Patrick Quirk has urged all boaties wanting to transit northern Moreton Bay and river precincts to do so only in daylight hours.
'We've been working hard to clear debris and the situation is improving, but we’re urging anyone who needs to go out on the water especially in northern parts of Moreton Bay to be extra vigilant and attentive,' Mr Quirk said.
'It's important to be aware that there is still likely to be submerged objects floating just below the surface.
'Extra precautions boaties can take in northern Moreton Bay include going out on the water in daylight hours only and at reduced speeds.
'It is important to keep well clear of any debris and also the vessels that continue to work on clearing debris.
'In addition, some navigational aids may be out of position, topmarks missing and lights not working.
'Remember, safety first, for yourself, your passengers and others waterways.
'Southern Moreton Bay and offshore waters have been less impacted but it's still important to be extra vigilant and keep a good visual outlook.'
For further information please visit www.msq.qld.gov.au.
Australian floods bring yacht devastation in the Brisbane River
Australia's flooding has not spared the yachting community. Dozens of boats have been torn from their moorings to be swept down Queensland's raging Brisbane River towards its outlet into the sea, Moreton Bay. This morning many had collided with the bank or other debris and been damaged. Empty yachts can be seen careening down the river.
A number of other boats still moored in the river are disabled and can't be moved and water police are helping owners secure their vessels and get to shore safely.
Only experienced skippers are now being allowed to move their boats from the river to safe moorings in Moreton Bay, a police spokesperson says.
'There have been no emergency situations and everyone is being very cooperative with water police,' she said.
'The river is flowing very, very rapidly now so they're only letting experienced skippers attempt to move their boats to safe areas in Moreton Bay.
'Water police have six vessels working in the Brisbane River and they have more boats coming up from the Tweed Coast to assist.'
Police say that if the boats and pontoons which have been torn from their moorings don't wash up on rocks or become trapped under bridges, they'll end up floating free in Moreton Bay.
The Brisbane River has long been a popular stopping point for long range cruising sailors, who tie their yachts to mooring posts in the heart of Brisbane, near the Botanical Gardens.
Liz and Alan Leys are one of these cruising couples, and yesterday afternoon could only watch as the raging Brisbane River tried to tear their beloved yacht from its increasingly perilous-looking mooring.
The couple have spent the past 24 years travelling the world on the small vessel, named Ayla, and stopped in Brisbane recently to house-sit for friends.
'We didn't realise how bad it was going to be and there's was nothing we could do by the time we got down here,' Mr Leys told AAP on Wednesday morning.
Nothing is known of the whereabouts of the yacht this morning.
Police say that if the boats and pontoons which have been torn from their moorings don't wash up on rocks or become trapped under bridges, they'll end up floating free in Moreton Bay.
Entire sections of large metal pontoons have been torn off and carried away, some with small power boats and jet skis still tied to them.
For those who are able to move their yachts, both the Scarborough Yacht Club and the Moreton Bay Yacht Club, both situated out of harms way on the nearby coastline, have offered free berthing to non-commercial vessels.
Up to 70 yachts lost in Bundaberg's Burnett River floods
'Bundaberg’s Burnett River - flood has caused many yachts to break their moorings' .
While Bundaberg Port Marina, where many cruising yachties stop along their way, was unaffected by the recent flooding in Bundaberg, many other yachts, particularly those anchored in the narrower part of the river close to the centre of town, have been washed down the river and destroyed. Up to 70 yachts are believed to have been affected.
Making the matter worse, VMR volunteers by their charter are not allowed to 'salvage' boats, meaning that helpless volunteers watched as yachts careened down the river, some out to sea, and others to be smashed on sea walls.
'The carnage on the Burnett River is horrendous,' yacht owner Peite Voorderhake told News Mail. 'We've seen four or five boats go out to sea past Burnett Heads, and several boats are out between (Burnett Heads) and Lady Musgrave Island.'
According to some yacht owners, the inability of volunteers to assist to catch a runaway boat will have cost the owners an estimated $10million.
Other yacht owners were risking their lives going out in ill equipped inflatable dinghies to try and save the boats that had broken their anchors.
'A 34ft yacht came down the river with its anchor out, and got blown onto the northern wall — it's been totally destroyed by the wind and the waves bashing it against the rocks,' Mr Voorderhake said.
Bundaberg Marina - still in good shape - .. . Click Here to view large photo
Paul Grunske, a seafood retailer on the Burnett River at Bundaberg, says there has been a lot of destruction on the water.
'There's a lot of dragged yachts,' he said.
'There's a lot of yachts normally moored up the town reach of the Burnett River and when they build up with weed and that sort of thing and when the floodwaters reach that speed, the moorings drag and away they go.'
Others living on their boats had been stranded for days, unable to leave their boats, and were assisted by an emergency food and water drop by police.
VMR state president John Jacobsen told News Mail that due to a pending court case, VMR volunteers were hamstrung in their rescue efforts.
'It is so frustrating for the volunteers to see a vessel floating away and to be unable to do anything to save it,' Mr Jacobsen said.
He said the Bundaberg branch was also hampered by a shortage of volunteers, after several members were trapped in their own homes by floodwaters.
'The volunteers are distraught that they don't have enough people to man the base fully,' he said.
He said volunteers had spent 16 hours a day on the water and had rescued several people.
'On behalf of VMR, I want to say that we feel for every person that has suffered through this horrible flood,' he said.
Currently, a drifting unmanned boat comes under the category of a vessel to be salvaged. With many of the owners of these yachts possibly fighting their own battles to save their homes and families, it shows up a weakness in the present legislation which prevents willing VMR volunteers, equipped with the appropriate launches, from chasing and securing a runaway vessel.
Largest ever solar yacht crosses Atlantic, visits climate conference
'Turanor - powered by 38,000 solar cells' Everything begins with a dream, and the dream to build the world's largest solar yacht and circumnavigate the earth with her is on its way to becoming true. Launched last April in Kiel in Germany, the 85 tonne catamaran Türanor left Monaco in September and crossed the Atlantic Ocean last month, claiming a record for the fastest crossing powered purely by the sun.
She then sailed south and made a very appropriate appearance at the United Nations climate change conference in Cancun in Mexico.Its 64-year-old German owner, Immo Stroeher, says: 'The theme of this ship and its around-the-world voyage is to create consciousness about what you can do with solar energy.'The name Turanor, which is borrowed from Tolkien's famed 'Lord of the Rings' means 'power of the sun', the yacht's goal is to circumnavigate the world in 160 days. Turanor is equipped with 38,000 solar cells, and travels at a steady pace of 7.5 knots.
She will please conventional sailors with her silence in operation. It is topped by scores of photovoltaic panels, with a total area of more than 600 sq metres, covering, as can be seen in the images, most of the catamaran’s surface.More panels adorn outriggers on the starboard, port, and stern sections, all of which are able to retract during rough weather. Captured solar energy is stored in the world’s largest lithium ion battery, which will power the boat’s emissions-free, (and silent) electric motor.The boat is financed by Ströher, a German entrepreneur and solar pioneer, in close cooperation with Knierim Yachtbau GmbH, the shipyard that built the catamaran
Turanor still in the workshop -
'The mission of the skippers is to chase the sun,' said Dany Faigaux, a member of PlanetSolar, the Swiss team behind the ambitious project. 'Up until now, sailing navigation has involved working with the three parameters of the waves, wind and tide. But we've added two new dimensions – namely, sunlight and the lithium ion battery. It's a completely new form of energy management.'The catamaran, designed for its energy-saving ability to 'slice' rather than 'ride' through waves, will store energy in its batteries by day. It can run on its stored energy in the absence of sunlight for around three days at 7.5 knots, the speed of an average oil tanker. At slower speeds it could run for up to 15 days, according to its makers.Türanor, which is travelling along an equatorial route – to take most advantage of the sunshine – is being helped by French meteorologists who advise the most efficient path along which to steer it according to current conditions and forecasts.If it is a particularly cloudy day, they might recommend a diversion to sunnier parts, even if the route turns out to be longer. 'Its all about maximising its energy efficiency,' said Faigaux.The voyage is intended not so much to revolutionise sea travel – the technology requires the vessel to be as light as possible, so it would not be suitable for heavy container ships – as to prove the under-exploited potential of solar energy.
Turanor and helmsmen Raphael Domjan and Gerard D’Aboville - first man to row across the Atlantic -
We want to be the Phileas Fogg of the 21st century,' says 38-year old Domjan, the project's pioneer, referring to his famed story, 'Around the World in 80 Days'. 'But beyond Jules Verne's dream, our project is meant to serve the environment and to enable solar energy to replace fossil fuels, and to motivate engineers and scientists to develop these technologies,' he says. Appropriately, one of the patron's of the project is Jean Verne, the great-grandson of the French author of Around the World in Eighty Days.Gerard d'Aboville, his fellow skipper for the voyage, is no stranger to maritime challenges, having become the first person to row across the Atlantic Ocean in 1980.'We'll have to learn a new kind of navigation,' he said. 'It's very different from any of the other challenges I've faced, which is what makes it so interesting. It's strongly symbolic for the future of solar energy, but I would not dare to say that tomorrow a merchant boat or a passenger plane will be powered by the sun.'
Maritimo expands its operations to South Africa
'Laurence Steytler, Bigfoot Marine’s principal, was particularly impressed with the Maritimo Aegean Series.' Maritimo Queensland Click Here to view large photo
Queensland’, Australia's s luxury boat builder, Maritimo, has again expanded its international dealer network with the appointment of Durban’s Bigfoot Marine to represent the marque in southern Africa.
Laurence Steytler, principal of Bigfoot Marine, is a passionate boater and angler who established the business in 2003 after a successful career in property management and development.
Luke Durman, Maritimo Marketing Director, said there was a ’healthy big boat market’ across the southern Africa region, specifically for luxury cruisers and game fishing vessels.
'Laurence Steytler and the staff of Bigfoot Marine boast an intimate knowledge of those markets,' he added.
Maritimo’s popular 48’ flyingbridge cruiser is expected to prove its appeal on the South African market. - Maritimo Queensland
Mr Steytler said he had ‘searched the world’ for a boat that would suit his own specific requirements.
'I looked for a boat with genuine blue water credentials, with safe walk-around decks and a useable flying bridge,' he explained.
Mr Steytler said his search eventually led to a magazine article on Maritimo CEO Bill Barry-Cotter and the award-winning Maritimo range.
'The Maritimo range appeared to offer everything I was looking for,' he recalled.
'I telephoned the plant, spoke with Luke Durman and received straight answers to my questions.'
The answers obviously comprised the information Mr Steytler was looking for.
Earlier this month he visited the plant, met the crew and toured the facilities, describing the company’s engineering capabilities as 'astounding.'
'The fact that Maritimo manufacturers its own water strainers, propellers and couplings could only be termed reassuring,' he declared.
Bigfoot Marine has placed its first orders and the company expects a February delivery of the first Maritimo to the South African region.
It will be based at the exotic Seychelle Islands, a republican nation 1500 kilometres (932 miles) east of the mainland.
Although Bigfoot Marine was originally seeking flying bridge convertible-style vessels, the dealership has not ruled out the popular Maritimo Cabriolet range.
'We’ll wait and see what happens, in the meantime we are delighted to have a boat in our region and will assist the new owners with all relevant after-sales service,' Mr Steytler added.
Check out this Yacht - Sep_09
A famous French ship building company has joined hands with Wally Et Hermes from Monaco to build this enormous yacht called
The Why (58m long and 38m wide)
Click any image to see it full size
The WHY has an area of 3400 square meters, with seating for 12 passengers and 20 crew.The yacht will use green energy to save 20 - 30% fuel and 40 - 50% electricity consumption on board. There are 900 sq. Meters equipped with solar panels, producing a daily output of 500 kW.
A 25 meter swimming pool, spa, helicopter pad, sauna, gym, massage room, a promenade of 130 meters, music room, reading room, dining room, cinema, sun decks, suites, terraces, lounges and a bibi fit on three decks. The decks are connected by stairs but there is also an elevator.
The owners suite consists of an area of 200 Sq. Meters, which completely covers the third deck. This bedroom is quite a sea view with a 25 meter private terrace.
The yacht has the shape of a horse shoe and has a roof so everything is bathed In a sea of light. The spacious lounge on the lower deck are the common premises, such as lounge, piano bar and dining area. The dining room opens onto the sea view for guests and their 5 personal suites with sea views are on the middle deck.
Iconic Sydney dealership, Andrew Short Marine has gone into liquidation, only days before the second anniversary of Andrew Short's death in a yachting accident.
Chris Walsh, first Virgin Oceanic pilot. - Virgin Oceanic
The phrase 'Mine's bigger' was never truer. A US company has recently produced the world's largest rope, designed to make your heaviest mainsheet look like a piece of sewing cotton.
A 'sardine apocalypse' in which at least one million dead fish were found floating in a harbour near Los Angeles on Tuesday may have been caused by a predator, strong winds or the fish simply getting lost, according to marine experts.
Australia's flooding has not spared the yachting community. Dozens of boats have been torn from their moorings to be swept down Queensland's raging Brisbane River towards its outlet into the sea, Moreton Bay. This morning many had collided with the bank or other debris and been damaged. Empty yachts can be seen careening down the river.
'Bundaberg’s Burnett River - flood has caused many yachts to break their moorings' .
'Turanor - powered by 38,000 solar cells' Everything begins with a dream, and the dream to build the world's largest solar yacht and circumnavigate the earth with her is on its way to becoming true. Launched last April in Kiel in Germany, the 85 tonne catamaran Türanor left Monaco in September and crossed the Atlantic Ocean last month, claiming a record for the fastest crossing powered purely by the sun.
'The mission of the skippers is to chase the sun,' said Dany Faigaux, a member of PlanetSolar, the Swiss team behind the ambitious project. 'Up until now, sailing navigation has involved working with the three parameters of the waves, wind and tide. But we've added two new dimensions – namely, sunlight and the lithium ion battery. It's a completely new form of energy management.'The catamaran, designed for its energy-saving ability to 'slice' rather than 'ride' through waves, will store energy in its batteries by day. It can run on its stored energy in the absence of sunlight for around three days at 7.5 knots, the speed of an average oil tanker. At slower speeds it could run for up to 15 days, according to its makers.Türanor, which is travelling along an equatorial route – to take most advantage of the sunshine – is being helped by French meteorologists who advise the most efficient path along which to steer it according to current conditions and forecasts.If it is a particularly cloudy day, they might recommend a diversion to sunnier parts, even if the route turns out to be longer. 'Its all about maximising its energy efficiency,' said Faigaux.The voyage is intended not so much to revolutionise sea travel – the technology requires the vessel to be as light as possible, so it would not be suitable for heavy container ships – as to prove the under-exploited potential of solar energy.
We want to be the Phileas Fogg of the 21st century,' says 38-year old Domjan, the project's pioneer, referring to his famed story, 'Around the World in 80 Days'. 'But beyond Jules Verne's dream, our project is meant to serve the environment and to enable solar energy to replace fossil fuels, and to motivate engineers and scientists to develop these technologies,' he says. Appropriately, one of the patron's of the project is Jean Verne, the great-grandson of the French author of Around the World in Eighty Days.Gerard d'Aboville, his fellow skipper for the voyage, is no stranger to maritime challenges, having become the first person to row across the Atlantic Ocean in 1980.'We'll have to learn a new kind of navigation,' he said. 'It's very different from any of the other challenges I've faced, which is what makes it so interesting. It's strongly symbolic for the future of solar energy, but I would not dare to say that tomorrow a merchant boat or a passenger plane will be powered by the sun.'
