mainsheet SPRING 2012

Published by the Royal Queensland Yacht Squadron Kerumba Skipper: Tam Faragher 2012 Brisbane to Keppel Race Wind and waves – a reflection of the race Code Flag K from Commodore Greg Clarke

What an amazing period the The day was also an excellent in Marina 1. These works, when Squadron has enjoyed since my last opportunity for Squadron members, complete will provide current and communication. In the past three young and old, to meet our latest future generations of Squadron months we have all experienced gold medalist. The sheer joy on the members with one of the best some memorable moments that we faces of those who saw and touched Marina facilities in the southern can be very proud of. the medal and the humble manner hemisphere, adjacent to one of the in which Mat displayed it, is one I most highly regarded Squadrons in In early August a group of will long cherish. The fact that all Australia. passionate and noisy members this took place in the comfort of our gathered (twice) in the RQ Bar to impressive new Pavilion, followed I encourage you all to visit the watch the Olympic medal race of by one of the largest (in both boat Squadron and to take advantage the 470 men’s class. The bell was and people numbers) sail passes in of these great new facilities. As rung when Squadron members sometime, made for a day we can the summer season has and Malcolm Page all be satisfied with. However if it now commenced and the lawns crossed the line ahead of their hadn’t been for the hard work of our and waterways are again full of British rivals to bring gold back to administration and wait staff, as well Squadron boats, is an excellent the Squadron after 40 years. as the dedication of our volunteers, time for everyone to shake off the our special day of the year would winter blues and to participate in Our first Olympic gold medalist, not have been this memorable. the multitude of Squadron events John Cuneo, was in his original that have been organised for your Olympic jacket to cheer the boys Our final achievement during enjoyment. on. It was an exciting night at RQ the period has been the as it gave us the opportunity to commencement of the major I look forward to seeing you either show to the world the high caliber refurbishment of the 460+ berths at Manly or down at Canaipa. of our young sailors. The joy of the win quickly spread throughout the membership and we look forward to Mathew and Malcolm joining us shortly for a ‘Meet our Olympians’ function, so that we can again congratulate them on their achievements.

At the beginning of September we also celebrated the opening of our 128 season with a perfect Spring day. The Squadron’s patron, the Governor of Queensland, Ms Penelope Wensley MC, joined us for the first time and delivered an incredibly well researched and inspirational address. Her Excellency had a wonderful time and promised to stay for lunch next year to enjoy our hospitality even further.

www.rqys.com.au mainsheet 3 contents

3 Code Flag K - Cdr Greg Clarke 6 General Manager - Paul C Hughes 8 Gold Again - after 40 years 10 Flag Officer & Committee Members 12 Sail Noumea 16 Wild Ride to Noumea 20 Sail Cruising 22 Australasian Championships 24 RQYS Sailing Academy 28 Eight Bells - Flyaway Paul 30 Goodwill Cup 2012 32 Powerboat Cruising 34 Calendar of Events - Oct|Nov|Dec|Jan 38 RQ Trader 42 Book Review 46 Boat Care Basics - Safety Gear

mainsheet Front Cover SPRING 2012 Gold Medal Winners: John Cuneo & Mathew Belcher compare their gold medals

Photo by: Alaine Neilson

Published by the Royal Queensland Yacht Squadron

mainsheet is published by the Royal Queensland Yacht Squadron Limited. Post: PO Box 5021 Manly Qld 4179 Phone: (07) 3396 8666 Fax: (07) 3393 4100 Email: [email protected] Website: www.rqys.com.au Editor: Royal Queensland Yacht Squadron Printing: Fergies - (07) 3630 6500 Articles reflect the personal opinion of the author and/or contributor, and are not necessarily those of the Royal Yacht Squadron Limited (RQYS), nor does RQYS guarantee the accuracy of statements made by contributors or advertisers or accept any responsibility for statements they may express in this publication. The Editor reserves the right to change or alter contributors articles submitted to RQYS for publication. © Copyright 2012. All rights reserved. Royal Queensland Yacht Squadron. ACN 053 989 272.

4 mainsheet Royal Queensland Yacht Squadron Spring Motorline Opel Price List_Layout 1 28/08/12 5:24 PM Page 1

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Since the last Mainsheet RQ has provided by Moreton Bay College. up and organises our famous WAGS seen history in the making. The big This is exactly the sort of event every week without fail. The WAGS news, of course, being the London which benefits from the facility Exhibition Wednesday was huge Olympics with Mathew Belcher provided by the new pavilion. It with 100 boats entering the race in and Malcolm Page winning the was great to see so many talented great spirits. This year saw the boats Gold Medal for Australia in the 470 youngsters and supportive parents racing for the inaugural Peter Beard class sailing event. Mathew and his thoroughly enjoying this magic Trophy which will now be presented wife, Rike, attended the RQ 128th night. each year on Exhibition Wednesday. Opening Day on 1 September and The first recipient was Margaret Ann – John Cuneo, Olympic Gold medal As for World Championships in first in the monohull division. Regular winner in the Dragon class from the sailing, RQ hosted both the Laser participant Frequent Flyer was first in 1972 Munich Olympics also made Radial Youths and Laser Men’s the multihull division. a special appearance. So, in what Championships in July. In the is probably a once-in-a-lifetime Youth’s, 25-35 knot gusts and The Governor of Queensland in occurrence, we had two Gold persistent rain battered the first her inspiring Opening Day address Olympic medalists, with forty years day while the Men’s race had the acknowledged RQYS to be among separating them, together for the opposite challenge – no breeze! Australia’s premier yacht squadrons Opening Day celebrations. None of this dampened the with facilities ranked among the enthusiasm of the sailors, however. very best in the world. To attest to Opening Day was a resounding Hermann Tomasgaard from Norway this, the upgrade to Marina One success. We were honoured that took out the first in the Boys Youths is well and truly underway. The our Patron, Her Excellency, the championships, Maxime Jonker from restrictions on the foreshore car Governor of Queensland, Ms Netherlands was first in the Laser park area are minimal and the works Penelope Wensley AC attended the Youths Girls and Tristan Brown from have proceeded with the minimum official ceremony and christened Perth tenaciously held on to first possible inconvenience. If all goes our three new 29er dinghies. The place in the Men’s. Tristan sailed according to plan the refurbishment pavilion went up just in time for consistently skilfully and he is sure to should be completed by mid-2013. Opening Day. This brilliant new be a young sailor to watch out for in The much-needed upgrade will structure replaces the previous, the future. certainly provide RQYS with an crumbling 21-year-old tent; it gives enviable world-class marina facility. a new lease of life to the Boardwalk In the Brisbane to Keppel Tropical Bar and Café area and sets RQ a cut Yacht Race in August, again, slight So, as we now look positively above. The grounds and gardens winds meant a slow race. While Wild towards the future, to quote the also looked wonderful on Opening Oats XI took out line honours for the Governor, ‘I wish you fair winds, and Day thanks to the exceptional effort race, Bad Habits collected accolades following seas. May your jib never of Eric our talented groundsman for their perseverance. This intrepid luff and may all your landfalls be and staff. crew soldiered on, despite lack expected.’ of breeze, to arrive at the finish in Some four hundred people turned Keppel Bay four days later. Paul Hughes out on a beautiful night on 15 September to enjoy ‘Music Under I would like to make special mention the Stars’, an annual concert of a volunteer, Paul Bolton, who sets

6 mainsheet Royal Queensland Yacht Squadron Spring

medallists Olympic Gold Guests Page! With Special and Malcolm Mathew Belcher Meet our Olympians

Date: Friday 2 November 2012 Time: 7pm for 7.30pm Venue: Boardwalk Pavilion Dress: Smart casual Cost: $95 Includes: Arrival drinks, 3-course dinner, table wine, beer Bookings: 3396 8666 by 26 October

www.rqys.com.au mainsheet 7 Gold Again - after 40 years

JOHN CUNEO, TOM Winning the Gold Medal and mantle, was relief. The week of becoming Olympic Champions in competition was very difficult. We ANDERSON AND JOHN London was the mission they set four had strong winds for the majority SHAW DID IT IN THE years ago, when they joined as a of the competition which also DRAGON CLASS AT THE team following Malcolm’s gold medal made it very physical. This breeze success at the Beijing Olympics. The range meant that we struggled ‘72 OLYMPIC GAMES most satisfying thing was that they all week with upwind speed IN MUNICH AND NOW did it in such style. Coach Victor compared to the British pair (the Kovalenko always said he wanted only boat though!) due to their MATHEW BELCHER AND them to dominate the final year crew being heavier than me. MALCOLM PAGE HAVE leading into the games.... which is Thankfully once we got around the BROUGHT HOME THE exactly what they did. top mark and put the spinnaker up, we were able to go faster than GOLD FROM LONDON Since the Olympic test event one year them. So we had to use every little 2012 WITH THEIR WIN ago, they have been unstoppable, bit of wind strategy and tactics to winning all regattas except the Sail keep ourselves in the game, so IN THE INTERNATIONAL Melbourne World Cup event late last that we would be in the fight at the 470 CLASS. year. The Olympic games was their end of the week,’ said Malcolm. 8th regatta in a row, which included two World Championships and four They went into the final race World Cup events. with a slim lead with a four point margin. The wind was predicted ‘I think the biggest feeling we both to be very light on this race day... felt upon victory, after carrying the and sure enough... they were ‘favourite and world number 1’ waiting for close to five hours

8 mainsheet Royal Queensland Yacht Squadron Spring under a postponement flag before members of the whole Australian Royal Queensland Yacht Squadron the races were cancelled for that Olympic Team to defend the title member before moving to day. The winds were not a lot from the Beijing Olympics. a few years ago and his Silver in stronger the following day, but it Beijing was under the RQ burgee. was sailable. The race started with Additionally, the Australian Olympic Dan sailed 420s at RQ and Sabots the British pair having the Gold at Sailing Team was amazing with previously and now has a gold and the first mark. Thankfully, Mat and delivering three Golds and one silver from consecutive Paralympics. Malcolm pulled out the jets on the Silver medal in total. Eight of the first downwind to take the lead 13 athletes that were selected in Special mention must go to from them. The race continued the team came home with some Peter Conde, previous RQ Vice like this with the placings being in ‘Bling’. These results made Australia Commodore, for his untiring efforts the balance, but they managed to the No.1 sailing team in the world, as High Performance Director with get their noses ahead for the last and No.1 sport for the whole the Australian Olympic Sailing Team. spinnaker ride to the finish. They Australian Olympic Team and are a then kept everything simple and credit to the Australian Sailing Team Mathew attended our Opening avoided any situations with other (AST) and their system, and the Day celebrations, delighting both boats. After crossing the line in 2nd, people who are part of the process. children and adults alike with a and GBR in 4th, they had secured ‘touch of gold’! the Gold Medal by eight points Special congratulations must also overall. go to Daniel Fitzgibbon and his crew Liesl Tesch for their Gold It was a really special moment, medal win at the London 2012 Photos below: as this was the first time that any Paralympic Games in the Skud18 Left - Josephine Jenyns (centre) grand Australian sailor has won dual Gold sailing event. Dan was a long time daughter of triple Olympian Ron Jenyns Medals. Also they were the only was excited to be able to hold an Olympic Gold medal. Right: Rike & Mathew Belcher join John Cuneo at the Opening Day Luncheon

www.rqys.com.au mainsheet 9 Flag Officers & Committee Members

Flag Officers

Commodore Greg Clarke Vice Commodore Kevin Miller Rear Commodore Ian Threlfall

Finance, Development & Sailing Powerboat Marketing Committee Committee Committee

David Virgo Michael Job Fraser Spencer Chairman Chairman Chairman

Honorary Treasurer Board Member Board Member Board Member

Steve Best Peter Bates Mick Atkinson

Peter Geroff Tam Faragher Karl Guilfoyle

Rod Stewart Adrian Finglas Christopher Land

Stephen Toms Kerry Waraker Peter Tyquin

10 mainsheet Royal Queensland Yacht Squadron Spring 2012-2013

Membership House & Entertainment Works Committee Committee Committee

Rosemary Collins Geoff Gallagher Peter Watkins Chairman Chairman Chairman

Board Member Board Member Board Member

Mark Gallagher Helen Cavill Mark Hipgrave

Michael Moore Vanessa Freebairn John Nelson

Curtis Skinner Roger McDowall Noel Paterson

Grant Somerville Brian Pozzey John Webster

www.rqys.com.au mainsheet 11 Long distance trans ocean races have not, in recent years, been a regular fixture on the ocean yachtsman’s calendar. In fact there have been eight races from Brisbane to Noumea since 1981, in 1983, 1987, 1991, 1993, 1997 and the most recent was 2002 in the event successfully conducted by Dr Sail Dayle Smith when 17 yachts faced the starter. Line honours in that event went to Robbo Roberston’s Murray 60 Eureka and the IRC win went to Stephen Bean’s BH 41Travelonline, now NOUMEA known as Michael Job’s much travelled Oceans. Having a new boat with cruising comforts, a far cry from those which existed in abundance aboard Sweethart in which we 2012… now how competed in the 2002 event, the idea of a 10th anniversary return to Noumea began to emerge. This was followed by good was that! an encouraging exchange of emails with Cercle Nautique Caledonien and their suggestion that 2012 would be the year By Past Commodore Tony Love - Patriot that Royal Akarana Yacht Club’s fleet would be making its three yearly Noumea pilgrimage so it could be a good idea to sound out their interest in collaborating in the planning and conduct of a common branded ocean race and passage rally with a post-race combined clubs cruise rally to the Isle of Pines. RAYC’s response was positive so planning for the event commenced in October of 2010 while Patriot was being readied for the Sydney to Hobart Race of that year.

The island of New Caledonia is almost completely surrounded by a fringing barrier reef which shelters an extensive lagoon. This provides an attractive cruising ground. It is thus little wonder that yachting and boating is a favourite leisure activity among Caledonians. Noumea with its safe natural harbour, three centrally located marinas with nearby shopping, world class lift out and marine service facilities has become a

12 mainsheet Royal Queensland Yacht Squadron Spring major stop off point for the world cruising fraternity en route to New Zealand (1000 nm South) or Australia (800 nm West). Ninety percent of New Cal’s external income comes from nickel with about ten percent from tourism. Eighty percent of the population are indigenous Kanaks.

A particular attraction of the destination, apart from the fact that it is warmer in the winter months (22˚ South) and the hospitality provided to visiting yachtsmen was the prospect of a repeat participation in the post-race cruise rally to the Isle of Pines, this time in company with the Auckland fleet and led by locals who know the special places to go.

SailNoumea 2012 was promoted to appeal to both cruisers and racers with the choice for the cruisers of a flexible departure to take advantage of a favourable weather window, or a race with defined start time. Initial promotion through personal and email contact, Mainsheet articles, website and a programme of information evenings on a range of topics of interest to prospective participants soon attracted more than 40 expressions of interest from each of the Brisbane and Auckland fleets. A host of factors, not the least of which were the state of our respective economies, availability of crews for race and return, time of year, and boats not being ready, all conspired to reduce final fleet numbers to 12 from Brisbane and 16 from Auckland, but this was still a pretty good outcome given that with 100% occupancy of CNC’s marina in Noumea, even this number of boats arriving would put a strain on our host club.

In the six months prior to the start date of 3 June a number of interesting topics were presented at information evenings at Manly. These included a detailed discussion of YA’s Category 1 safety requirements, presentations by Ian Davis (Hood Sails) and David Lambourne (David Lambourne Yacht Rigging) on dealing with damage to sails and rig at sea and more particularly avoiding that occurrence. Penny Haire (Tidetech) and Jeff Lenton’s (Click IT) presentations were of a more technical flavour. Peter Campbell-Burns (MarineSafe) demonstrated the latest developments in safety equipment, Manfred Greitschus spoke on weather history and what to expect in June/July in this patch of ocean, while Geoff Folliot gave a most detailed outline of safe passage planning.

The Auckland race fleet of 16 boats, comprising the Farr 80 Beau Geste, two TP52’s, a Farr Cookson 50 with a mix of high performance race boats in the 40 to 50 ft range and a group of comfortable cruisers started on Saturday 2. The Brisbane fleet of nine race boats started on Sunday 3 with the cruise rally fleet of three having departed during the prior week. Both race fleets started in light airs but this was not to last with the formation of a low pressure system in the Northern Tasman Sea. The Auckland fleet soon met NW headwinds of up to 50 knots resulting in five retirements while the Brisbane fleet revelled in westerlies of 30 knots which persisted for most of the race.

The use of Yellowbrick trackers on all boats added interest for shore based ‘competitors’ as the progress of both fleets could be monitored in greater comfort than that being experienced by those at sea. Patriot came out of Moreton Bay in a leading position in the fleet, looking like heroes, soon to be relegated to the status of zeroes following the destruction of our heavy spinnaker and a fruitless chase to the north of the track looking for an anticipated weather development which did not occur in our favour… such are the joys of open racing! www.rqys.com.au mainsheet 13 The well sailed Beneteau 44-7 Alacrity pushed on to the Isle of Pines two After twelve unforgettable days, raced by Southport Yacht Club Rear days later and after a punishing 40 time was running out as we were Commodore Matthew Percy took the mile passage were rewarded with an scheduled to meet our return delivery double of Line Honours and IRC for idyllic anchorage in Kuto Bay where crew in Noumea on 1 July. Our return the Brisbane fleet. A great result. each day the weather just got better to Brisbane was the passage you and better and there were endless dream about… all the way on port Commodore Greg Clarke and Bink, activities onshore. We were soon track, never more than 10 NM from with RQ Regatta & Sailing Manager joined by Charlie’s Dream (Peter the rhumb line, with true wind angle Carl Webster might have thought that Lewis) and later by Isis X, known by varying between 50 and 120 degrees a sojourn in Noumea was to be a bit the French as “is is”.. (Nick and Alison and wind speed ranging from 5 to of a jaunt. On the contrary it was Stump with the irrepressible Grant and 25 knots. All systems aboard Patriot a 24 hour round of meeting each Caroline Somerville aboard) after their worked a treat for the whole trip. Our boat on arrival with usual ebullient return from Noumea for lift out and big learning on this passage was that enthusiasm, catching the odd nap in replacement of troublesome rudder the lid of our barbecue opens in 24 the gear container and being fresh bearings. knots of wind so needs to be tied and ready for the next arrival who down! would insist on sharing a rum (or The local inhabitants at Isle of Pines seven). Hospitality from our host are almost entirely Kanak whose Through our collaboration with CNC club CNC was equally memorable simple existence is based on limited and RAYC we have made many with our assigned ‘godfather’ who tourism employment with weekly new friends and at the same time was responsible for local knowledge, visits of cruise ships, some small scale unearthed the opportunity to develop mobility and more importantly agriculture, fishing and government these friendships at a number of getting crew safely to our hotel support. What was most noticeable levels within our clubs which each after days of discomfort and alcohol was their civic pride with complete support an active junior sailing deprivation was a distant and absence of rubbish. With little English programme. An early opportunity somewhat blurred memory. spoken it is amazing how one’s recall here is an invitation from Societe of French vocabulary comes to the des Regates Caledoniennes for our A passage event to a distant fore otherwise we could not eat junior sailors to participate in its New destination is just not possible without ashore or secure our daily supply of Caledonia Optimist and Laser Open a gear container to move cruising fresh baguettes. Championship to be conducted over gear and delivery sails and to return four days from 6 to 9 December. ship racing sails. On behalf of all Shore based activities, apart from Boats will be available to visiting participants a special thank you to doing nothing, luxuriating on the most sailors and accommodation will be our own member Graham Mulligan, beautiful beach imaginable, ranged available with host families. Notice of his colleagues John Carew and from sampling the culinary delights of Race is available from the RQ Sailing Laurie Pevitt of Chalmers Ltd, Paul the small restaurants where booking Office. Laps of Mediterranean Shipping the day before and choosing the menu Company and to Trent Barrat of is essential, otherwise they would RAYC is long passage ocean race Australian Customs Professionals for not have the necessary ingredients programme is more highly developed their provision of a 20 ft container, in stock, swimming, snorkelling and than ours with races to Suva, Port Vila its transport, shipping and customs diving, to climbing to the island’s and Noumea conducted in annual clearance both outbound and highest point for spectacular views sequence so it looks like the next time inbound. of the surrounding reefs and learning we will all get together again will be the finer points of sailing a traditional 2015. I’m working already on storing Our 11 June planned departure for dugout outrigger canoe. One brownie points so we can do this trip the much awaited Isle of Pines Cruise significant learning after a lunch of again in 2015. Can’t wait. Rally could not occur as a persistent barbecued lobster with Isis X crew Thank you to our sponsors low pressure system with its strong on the other side of the island was westerly winds made the anchorage how to pack seven sailors into our at our destination untenable. Instead rented Hyundai Getz.... Alison in the a fleet of eight boats departed on boot, four crew persons in the back 12 June for Prony Bay with its many Australian Customs Totally Workwear seat, and the two skippers in the front Professionals deep water anchorages providing safe seat (where else could skippers be shelter until the weather passed. Too expected to travel when in a strange Impetuous (Rudy Weber) and Patriot Chalmers Ltd land?). Mediterranean Shipping Company 14 mainsheet Royal Queensland Yacht Squadron Spring bcm:wb 8627

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WB 8627 Loyal Watch Cmail Press.indd 1 6/09/12 5:25 PM The fluky conditions at the start line on Sunday 3 June gave few clues as to the journey ahead. We knew from forecasts of the pre-race weather models early NE winds would give way to Westerly winds as the race progressed, Wild Ride emanating from the quite deep low pressure system developing south. It was expected to give the fleet winds up to 20 knots and a swift ride to Noumea. Meanwhile the passage out of Moreton Bay against a to NOUMEA flooding tide was plagued by fickle winds which died completely at one stage. Blunderbuss anchored off Mud Island for an hour or so. After sunset good progress was made again in NE – NW breeze out the Fairway channel The view from here... with fog passing through the fleet at the northern end. Several ships made the journey out of Moreton Bay during an account of the the evening and yachts needed to keep their wits about them. Regular communication between ships and yachts Sail Noumea, Brisbane to on channel 12 was required to ensure we kept clear of each other. The final mark was a challenge in the fast-flowing Noumea Yacht Race... tide; we needed several tacks in fading breeze. Carbon Credits managed to catch us and make it around NE4 on on board Blunderbuss the inside of us and 41 Sud just behind. Alacrity and Patriot were a few miles ahead. By Tony Kinsman Gradually the wind swung westerly as we departed Moreton Bay around midnight, and settled from the SW, but barely enough to keep sails full in the swell. During the early morning and as sunrise approached it started to fill and we built up speed with our largest spinnaker setting nicely in a steady 20 knots by daybreak. The question for us was which course to take, north or South of the rhumb line or simply follow it. The challenge all night had been to develop boat speed in light winds and the weather models were telling us we should be experiencing a stronger breeze, but there was inconsistency between the models and none really accorded with the conditions we were currently experiencing. Our strategy therefore became to head north chasing boat speed until the breeze filled in more and we could gybe back to the rhumb line.

16 mainsheet Royal Queensland Yacht Squadron Spring Following the rhumb line was the safest strategy until we could have more confidence in the models. We gybed to starboard at dawn. The morning race sched looked OK for us indicating that while we had a slow exit from Moreton Bay we were now holding good progress with the leaders. The rest of the day and the second night were sailed on starboard gybe with the S2 spinnaker and good speed was achieved. The next sched also indicated we were holding our position, recognising that the yachts in front were larger and Carbon Credits and 41 Sud were behind and to the south. We made good speed and wondered about the info and strategies on the yachts heading south of the rhumb line and decided while we were able to keep a good TWA while sailing the rhumb line there was not enough convincing data to suggest we take a southerly course. I should point out here that we elected not to install Immarsat satellite communications on Blunderbuss for the race but instead installed an upgraded Pactor 3 modem to the HF receiver and our navigator George believed he could receive enough grib files of weather forecasts to give a reasonable idea of the weather situation during the race. George had the system working brilliantly; being a computer programmer he wrote sentences none of us could understand, requesting data for the various models through Predictwind and directly through sailmail. The diversity of models he downloaded enabled us to determine which were likely to be more accurate based on conditions at the time. The NOGAPS US Navy model and the European model (ECMWF) seemed to give us the best indication of forecast conditions but underestimated the winds and swell we saw during the race.

www.rqys.com.au mainsheet 17 Sail Noumea

on board blunderbuss

The third day, Tuesday 5 June, saw rhumb line course. The symmetric W SW and we counted down the the wind freshen from the West so we spinnaker was changed to a poled out miles to Noumea. We continued on decided to gybe. We probably should jib top and the yacht settled down to the rhumb line and noticed some of have reduced spinnaker area because an even course directly for Noumea. the asymmetric spinnaker yachts in the gybe did not go well, wrapping Wind of 25-30 knots from W SW the fleet to the north and south of us on the forestay and unfortunately continued through Tuesday evening but with more consistency of forecasts the head tore off in the untangling. and the swell continued to rise. We now coming through from the weather The growing swell complicated the decided to put a reef in the main but models we determined the rhumb line manoeuvre more than we expected. the knots on the reefing lines had course was the fastest to the finish. At The S3 worked well after this, however, worked loose and we lost them into 10.30 Thursday morning 7 June we we knew we would regret losing our the boom. It took a while in the early crossed 100nm to go to the finish. large spinnaker in the closing stages hours of the morning to re-establish The race course directed us to enter when the wind was expected to ease. them and we probably lost some the reef surrounding New Caledonia The head had separated several ground in the meantime, although the at the Boulari Passage, approximately metres from the top and taken the log does not show a noticeable drop 12nm from the finish at Noumea. We tapes with it so it would have been a in average speed. Average speed was sailed through the passage at 2230 large job to repair. recorded at 9-11 knots during this and set the asymmetric spinnaker for peak wind period. On Tuesday afternoon we celebrated a smooth flat water ride to Noumea at George’s birthday, in a special toast, The W SW wind of 25-30 knot average 8-9 knots in 15 knots of breeze. the only time we had a taste of alcohol continued through Wednesday and We almost made it when a squall hit on the trip. the swell direction settled from the and the wind died. We were a mile SW moving round from NW. The from the finish, the welcoming tender The crew were otherwise kept swell together with the wind waves had spotted us and circled, we could energised throughout the race by from the same direction were now see the carton of cold beer. Wind a hot meal each day in the late creating some steep following seas. registered 1-3 knots of wind, boat afternoon and hot snacks generally in Blunderbuss was nicely balanced with speed was 0. It took an hour to cover the morning. Our meals included beef a poled out jib top and one reef in the the last mile and we finished at 0110 and veg in Guinness with curly pasta, main. TWA of 140-160 was achieved on Friday morning, 8th June. chicken curry with rice, Jane’s spag enabling surfing regularly down the sauce with pasta and parmesan, beef We were welcomed by RQYS waves. Twenty knots was recorded in red wine stew with curly pasta and Commodore Greg Clarke and Race on a number of occasions with a top pastizio. Our snacks included egg and Officer Carl Webster who shared speed of 22.4 knots in 37 knots of bacon pie, potato and bacon muffins, some French treats and a Rum and wind. Interesting that top speed and hot or cold sausages, meatloaf, Coke with us at the dock. Club Vice wind strength on both Tuesday and zucchini slice, minestrone soup with President Phillipe Mazard from CNC Wednesday occurred after dark. The par baked rolls, all supplemented by also joined us for a welcoming drink. strongest gust was recorded at 44 lots of fruit, bread, chocolate bars, nut knots. We were really pleased with The Cercle Nautique Caledonian and trail mix etc. the controllability of the First 40 in (CNC) club organised its members Back to the race, we carried the S3 to these conditions, the deep rudder and to be godfathers to each visiting sunset on Tuesday on a rising swell, wide transom working to good effect. yacht and ours was Jocelyn who was and strengthening wind, clearly that During this middle part of the race marvellous, helping us through the low pressure system from the south Blunderbuss experienced the most formalities and providing transport late was having more influence on us. exhilarating and exciting sailing we at night when all else was quiet. The The wind on Tuesday afternoon was have experienced in ocean races on Brisbane yachts really appreciated the consistently around 30 knots with the east coast. The wavelengths were time and effort these CNC members gusts in squalls reaching 35 knots. longer than we typically experienced gave to making our stay in Noumea as Sailing downwind in a large swell across the paddock of Hervey Bay pleasurable as possible. Jocelyn and enabled some impressive speeds during Gladstone and Keppel races, a few friends joined us for the harbour to be recorded. That evening a top making for longer rides down the fun race on Saturday. speed was achieved of 19.6 knots. waves. Our result was a respectable third on The apparent angle required to keep The wild downwind ride lasted about IRC handicap, behind Alacrity and 41 the symmetric spinnaker filled and the a day and a half and gradually eased Sud. Alacrity was always ahead of us boat in control in the confused swell during the evening of Wednesday. and sailed consistently well to hold was around 130-140 deg, and this The remaining S3 spinnaker went up its lead throughout the race. We were was taking us away from our preferred on Thursday morning in a 20 knot impressed with the performance of 41

18 mainsheet Royal Queensland Yacht Squadron Spring EMERGENCIES CAN HAPPEN

Sud, which we led in the first half of the race but they ANYWHERE finished an hour or so ahead of us and benefitted from G R E A T a lower handicap. Circle For the producers After a few days celebrating completing the race and of TV’s Biggest Loser, being in Noumea some of the crew flew home and the safety was paramount when rest of the crew enjoyed several days cruising the Baie contestants sailed from Sydney to Hobart. They De Prony on the SW coast of New Caledonia. The chose super tough Great Circle Life Rafts for both the westerly winds did not favour going to Ile des Pins but pre-sail safety training and their passage across the cruise around Prony was fun in the company of other yachts from the Cruise /Race. While at anchor on the notorious Bass Strait. the first night one of our crew hooked a nice Sea Perch and several cod to make a delicious dinner and put us in the right spirit for the Rallye. This relieved some of the pressure of expectation on Pete, built up during the race. After returning to Noumea to stock up for the sail back to Brisbane, we met more crew members for the voyage back to Brisbane, cleared Customs and Immigration and Quarantine on Monday morning 18 June and set sail on Monday afternoon in the company of Charlie’s Dream. Blunderbuss had six crew on board which made for a comfortable sail home in light to moderate NE winds, motoring in the light patches. Both yachts maintained a daily radio sched with Charleville Radio on the way back and enjoyed keeping a daily dialogue. We arrived at Rivergate in Brisbane Saturday evening/ Sunday morning 23/24 June and cleared Customs and Immigration Sunday morning before returning to Manly. On reflection the trip was an exciting race. We had good fun in Noumea after the race, although the NZ yachts arrived later than expected or retired after some torrid weather. The cruise was a welcome break before the sail home. The race/rallye is a good Masterfully engineered formula and should appeal to east coast yachts in future events. & exceptional value for guaranteeyear Blunderbuss Crew: conditions apply money * Tony Kinsman – skipper George Kinsman – navigator ISO & NSCV certified Shane Koreman – watch leader, helmsman Yachting Australia G R E A T Matt Williams – watch leader, helmsman compliant Ian Smith – bow, helmsman Circle Pete Webster – bow, mast, cockpit, helmsman Jon Hargraves-Smith – helmsman, cockpit Explore Great Circle Phil Kirby – cockpit Craig Blackwood – bow, mast www.greatcircleliferafts.com.au 1300 306 381

www.rqys.com.au mainsheet 19 A WINE & CHEESE TASTING EXPERIENCE at Myora with the RQYS Sail Cruising Group By Colin Gibbons

A beautiful late afternoon, clear sky, Saturday morning brought the good time and later duly collecting the promise of a full moon, the sea beginnings of a glorious winter his award. Well done Dennis! like glass and the warmth of a sun day in Queensland and If any of By 1600 on Saturday afternoon sinking toward the west. That was us dared have a complaint about there was a line of dinghies at the Myora anchorage on Saturday 5th the weather it would have been: sandbar with everyone enjoying August as 33 sailors from the Sail ‘A little more breeze please!’ as a tipple from sixteen unmarked Cruising Group went ashore on the most had to motor some of the bottles of various wines lined up on exposed sand bank to enjoy a wine way to Myora, however after some the sand along with two tables of and cheese tasting, the highlight of previous 15 to 25 knot ‘on the the most exotic cheeses you could this cruise weekend. nose’ trips, this was bliss. wish to find anywhere! This, of course provided a great opportunity On the previous evening we all The anchorage was absolutely to meet people we had not met crowded into the Olympic room perfect, calm, sunny, sparkling water before, swap stories with friends at RQYS for our pre-cruise briefing and a very light westerly which and generally enjoy each other’s This was after having enjoyed dinner dropped out during the afternoon. company. together at the Boardwalk Cafe Zest was the first of the cruising where we missed out again on the boats to arrive, closely followed by The wines were mixed, both in membership draw! We secretly Lady Margaret and Celebration, colour and quality. Some were very suspect that Roger is ‘pulling’ our and unlike some weekends at acceptable and others...hmmm, numbers when he sees us walk in! Myora, it was: ‘Pick your spot!’ ‘won’t try that again!’ The prize The briefing was our all-important with only one other vessel in the for the most outstanding wine was opportunity to finalise the anchorage. Needless to say, with awarded to Karl and Anita from Zest cruise details and meet any new fifteen yachts in the group, it filled (and I can no longer recall what it participants, before we all set sail up progressively over the day as we was other than a red!). the following morning. It was a all arrived. pleasure to introduce two couples When it came to the cheeses, it joining us for the first time; Mark Tradition dictates that there is a was more difficult and became an and Julie, owners of Lady Margaret, prize for the first person in the group arbitrary decision by the Cruise a Columbia 34, and Graham and to be able to stand on the emerging Captain. The prize was awarded to Suzanne with their newly acquired sandbar as the tide goes out, in Libby from Karisma, for a beautifully vessel Osiris, a Beneteau 47, also readiness for the wine and cheese exotic Castello cheese that she had first timers with the group. tasting. On a previous occasion, gone hunting for among the bazaars a keen sailor had risked drowning of Paddington. In reality, we could Having dealt with all the formalities as he waded onto the sandbar, have awarded ten prizes for some and the basic plan for the weekend, standing waist deep in water to really great efforts. it was back to the bar or to bed as claim the prize, only to discover it we all anticipated good weather and was the wrong place! However on During our time on the bar, good fun over the next two days. this occasion Dennis from Molokai arrangements were made to ensure made no mistake, getting there in everyone had somewhere to go

20 mainsheet Royal Queensland Yacht Squadron Spring (another boat!) for dinner and as Sunday was a quiet affair. Several electronics, accommodation and the water started to lap around our yachts had to depart during the hidey holes around the boat. feet and with the sun now below the morning, owing to commitments western horizon, we all headed back elsewhere, while six dinghies Looking back at the weekend to our boats. took advantage of the rising tide after a splendid sail across the bay and motored across to the Myora toward Manly in a sparkling north The night was perfect with a Springs, winding their way between east breeze, we could have wanted near full moon and a calm sea. the mangroves to explore the magic this lifestyle to go on forever; but, Early morning there was a light of this area, just perfect on such a maybe that is what makes these south westerly breeze through calm morning. weekends so special, friendships so the anchorage, but nothing to strong and experiences so unique. disturb a good night’s sleep Following the excursion to the They don’t happen every day, before awakening to sunshine, flat Springs, the remaining cruisers so when they do, we enjoy them water and the promise of another were invited to share a late morning to the full. beautiful day. tea with Rob and Deb on board their new yacht Sundance. Like We are looking forward to the next At around 0400, Peter and Bev proud parents they showed us cruising event with anticipation! aboard Spirit of Tommy an Adams over this beautiful 43 deck saloon If you are reading this and would 47, slipped out of the anchorage cruising yacht. We were all very like to share this experience, don’t to commence several months of impressed with the innovative hesitate to contact the Chair of the cruising north to Bowen. It was design features and shared Rob and Cruising Group Geoff East - great to have their company with Deb’s enthusiasm, as we explored 0423 759 858 and join us. the group on the eve of their departure.

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By Matthew Chew

The annual winter migration of Etchells to Mooloolaba was on again to compete in the ADCO Australasian Midwinter championships. A 40 boat fleet took to the waters over the Queen’s Birthday long weekend with teams travelling from Hong Kong, Perth, Victoria, SA and NSW. The RQYS Brisbane fleet was well represented, as always, with a solid eight entries. The fleet was well stacked with the top two teams from the recent worlds as well as another 6 teams from the top 10.

Kenyon Sports Photos The forecast of wind and rain was a welcome change to the light air regattas we have taken part in this year. We were blessed with 10-25 knots over the 3 days which gave all the boats a opportunity to test their bilge pumps with some interesting pump failures on many boats! My team on Gen XY with Paul Wyatt and new members Brian Donovan, Ashley Deeks took to the conditions perfectly and we sailed a perfect event, led the regatta from start to finish and held on to the win by two points. Winning this event is a great result for the Gen XY team and rewards everyone for all their efforts – especially the year worth of work that Paul has put in since the first day I bought the boat.

The next step for us after starting the season will be QLD states and the Nationals champs in Fremantle.

22 mainsheet Royal Queensland Yacht Squadron Spring Kenyon Sports Photos Kenyon Sports Photos

ETCHELLS AUSTRALASIAN CHAMPIONSHIP RESULTS

1 Matthew Chew, Ashley Deeks, Brian Donovan & Paul Wyatt Brisbane 2 Mark Thornburrow, Simon Cooke, Sam Sakai & Bucky Smith Hong Kong 3 Graeme Taylor, Steve Jarvin & Ben Morrison-Jack Mornington 4 Mark Bulka, James Arnold & Steve Young Melbourne 5 , David Edwards, Ivan Wheen & Owen McMahon Sydney 6 Mark Johnson, Christian Brook & Nikolas Burfoot Sydney 7 Peter McNeill, Simon Reffold & David Gleadhill Lake Macquarie 8 Colin Beashel, Richard Allanson & Garry Gudmunson Sydney 9 Christopher Hampton, Matthew Johns & Sam Haines Melbourne 10 Jeanne-Claude Strong, Tiana Wittey, Neville Wittey & Marcus Burke Sydney

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www.rqys.com.au mainsheet 23 RQYS Sailing Academy

Greetings all fellow sailors and a big welcome to you all for sailing season 12/13. This is actually my first Mainsheet article, hopefully the first of many. First off, I would like to introduce myself, my name is Charlotte McDonnell and I have recently joined the team at RQ. I want to say a big thank you to all the staff, parents, instructors and volunteers who have made me feel so welcome.

For the past two years I have been working for Yachting Victoria running a mobile sailing school as well as working with plenty of Charlotte McDonnell sailing schools across the state including the Boatshed in Albert Park. Originally from Dublin, Ireland I spent most of my childhood days learning to sail at the Royal St George Yacht Club and eventually as an instructor at the club. My passion for sailing came not only from my Father’s and family’s avid sailing interest but the fantastic sailing experience I had growing up at the George. It was a place where I could reach my sailing goals as well as a place I loved to hang out and form great friendships whom will be friends for life. I hope we can achieve this here at the Academy as well as providing a clear pathway for the development of our juniors and help the future generation of the Squadron excel in their sailing careers.

We have lots of new and exciting things planned for the Academy and one is the introduction to the Tackers programme which starts in November. This is a fun and exciting programme which will replace our JSP programme and allows children to enjoy sailing, complete Yachting Australia certificates and start their sailing pathway of development. There are three levels Tackers 1 - Sailing and Fun, Tackers 2 - Tricks and Techniques and Tackers 3 - Sailing Fast.

From here we have our Green Fleet which has been a great success. Our Green Fleet coach Hayden Johnson has been running a great programme here and all the children have been learning lots of new racing tactics and on the water practice. We are now also providing a coach for the PM off the beach racing on Saturday afternoons where any new or existing Optis who are racing will be briefed and coached out on the water during the regattas. Please email or call me for more information.

24 mainsheet Royal Queensland Yacht Squadron Spring Also I’d like to mention both Manly Our Ladies Sailing has also become To all our fellow sailors be sure State School and Wynnum State a real hit again this season and to keep up to date on what’s School who have been back for the ladies have been eager and happening on our website or email more Friday sessions on the water ready to go every week for more me at; [email protected] learning to sail, weather, capsizing sailing fun. Thank you to our and lots of knots. I’d like to thank all instructor Taylor Fielding who has Hope to see you all on the water or the instructors who have committed been running this course. It’s also around the club very soon. their time and efforts to these been great to see plenty of our courses. I would also like to extend adult sailors coming back for our ‘Go n-é irí an bothair Libh’ – a big thank you to John Chiplin who Better Sailing course after a great may the road rise to meet you all. has offered his time and care to experience in the Introduction to general boat maintenance here at Sailing, again a big thank you for all the Academy, your help and efforts your enthusiasm and to Matt Van are hugely appreciated. de Poll our Instructor who has been running this course.

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www.rqys.com.au mainsheet 25 Scene at the Squadron - Opening Day

26 mainsheet Royal Queensland Yacht Squadron Spring 27 Eight Bells

Flyaway Paul Paul O’Hare - 2 June 1932 – 26 July 2012

Members were saddened to hear In 1984 Paul and Kevin joined forces on Bluenose, on which we believe of the death in July of life-long to buy Flyaway Paul, a Whiting 36. they won the Brisbane to Gladstone member Paul O’Hare, aged 80. Paul decided it wasn’t the done in 1958. It was to be the first of Paul was a great character, known thing to leave “Paul” in his boat’s roughly 14 Gladstones Paul raced in, and loved by many, who turned name so he painted it out, pending mostly on his own boats. For Paul, a childhood love of sailing into a an overall re-paint. For several sailing was an absolute joy in his life, lifelong passion. months the boat was known as but as with all sailing careers, his “Flyaway Blob” until the re-paint had its highs and lows, adventures In 1977, on board his Endeavour 26 was completed, when Flyaway took and mis-adventures. (aptly named Tyrant), Paul is credited on its famous racing green cloak. as one of the first dozen skippers Flyaway was a prolific competitor During one Gladstone race, who, with great gusto, took up from 1984 to 1997, during which with son Jim one of the crew, the idea of Wednesday afternoon time Paul bought Kevin’s share and Flyaway’s rudder broke. It was Paul sailing. He rarely missed a WAGS designed an aft extension, giving who masterminded the idea of over the next 30 years. Flyaway a greater racing profile and constructing a large oar using the 40ft in length. The “verandah” as it goose neck pole. The crew spent After Tyrant he owned Topaz, a became known, created a dashing the next 24 hours moving it from classic S&S 30 and it was at this final touch to what was a beautiful side to side and the yacht limped time that Paul and Vice Commodore racing yacht. safely into harbour. From then on, Kevin Miller enjoyed some the dints in Flyaway’s gunnel were a great racing between Topaz and Paul’s earliest foray into crewing telltale reminder of that race. Providence, Kevin’s identical S&S 30. was with Sir Ellis Murphy aboard

28 mainsheet Royal Queensland Yacht Squadron Spring Paul was crew aboard Apollo 3 also sailed on Mechante, Nara Jim is now part-owner of RQ-based with old friend Alan Fox in the and Hoana, which had been the Bluebottle, which Paul was proud 1985 Sydney to Hobart race, a inaugural Gladstone winner in 1948, to know did the Gladstone this dreadful race in which the seas were under skipper Doug Perrins. year. A week after Paul’s death, enormous. Two thirds of the fleet Jim skippered Bluebottle on the pulled out and one man drowned, Paul was part of a great crowd of Brisbane to Keppel Island race and the first ever fatality for the race. friends that included his brother then to Hamilton for the race series. Apollo 3 was one of the few to finish. Bill, Peter Wadley, John O’Doherty, John Cullinan, Bim O’Driscoll, Denis On the way out of Brisbane, Jim He helped organise the first ever Shanahan and Gay Ruddy, to name and the crew – who all knew Paul Brisbane to Noumea race in 1988 a few. Gay introduced his sister – honoured his memory and said and sailed aboard Flyaway. The Margaret to Paul and they married in some final goodbyes. They toasted trip was a difficult one, with 60 knot 1962 – 50 years ago this month. him with rum and cokes and cast his winds on the nose most of the way. red locks off Breaksea Spit, throwing Paul was also a long-time member Paul was a true Irish-blooded a rum and coke over too, just for of Mooloolaba Yacht Club and skipper, who is famous for always him. (And to the call of women and sailed the Mooloolaba to Hamilton saying “all women down below children below.) Island twice, winning one time after while we gybe”. It was inevitable, in his words sailing “downhill under then, that his three daughters Paul was mentor and confidant to spinnaker” most of the way. didn’t really take up the mantle. many younger members particularly The passion, however, was firmly in the accountancy profession and, According to his widow Margaret, instilled in his only son James, who despite his love of a disagreement he never missed an overnighter was a permanent crew member on over any particular subject, or a series, including the annual Flyaway and a keen Sharpie sailor. was loved by many for his loyal Goodwill Cup and SCOR series. friendship and compassion. In his early sailing days, Paul

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www.rqys.com.au mainsheet 29 World Class Navigation Goodwill Cup TMQ C-Plot

or Goodwill Trophy? Navigation Event Saturday 3 November 2012

The Goodwill Cup IS IT THE GOODWILL CUP OR THE GOODWILL TROPHY?

The answer is: It is both.

THE GOODWILL CUP was created So, the Goodwill Cup is for in 1933 in an endeavour to close competition between Squadron a breach between members by members and the Goodwill Trophy bringing them together under is for the interclub competition pleasant circumstances. Dr J between Royal Queensland Yacht Bostock and Dr L J J Nye donated Squadron and Southport Yacht Club. TMQ C-Plot is an intuitive and easy to use Market-leading the ‘Goodwill Cup’ for a race across  the Bay ending in a get-together As this year marks the 50th computer-based chart-plotting system, computer-based with conviviality. Anniversary of the Goodwill Trophy incorporating features developed within the plotting system competition we are looking to field This event proved so successful that, a strong fleet to make sure the fishing industry. in 1947, they donated a second cup Trophy remains in the hands of Royal  User-friendly for sailing yachts. Queensland. It is suitable for both professional operation THE GOODWILL TROPHY was Entry forms and instructions are and recreational users. donated by Dr L J J Nye in 1962 now available on-line from  Powerful plotting when the members of the Southport www.rqys.com.au or please call us if functionality with Yacht Club were invited to share in you would like a copy sent by mail. TMQ C-Plot utilises the spirit of goodwill by conducting C-Map Max Pro vector charts great versatility their own race from Southport and or Seafarer raster charts. joining the Royal Queensland Yacht Squadron’s reunion on shore at HINTS & TIPS Peel Bay. This year, 2012, will see the 50th Anniversary competition NIGHT  The Goodwill Trophy for this beautiful trophy which was made in 1814 in the reign of George Learn all you need to know from the experts. III by a celebrated silversmith of ly Austr ud a o lia the time, James le Bass. Later, in Join us on Wednesday 10 October for an information evening on powerboat r n 1871, it was presented by Baroness navigation eventing. P Rothschild to Joesph J Hayhoe connect to AIS Autopilot GPS Piscatus to commemorate his horse racing Experienced entrants of previous Goodwill & Myora Cups will provide ‘hints successes. Following the purchase & tips’ to ensure we keep the ‘trophy’ at the Squadron. by Dr Nye in London in 1962 a yacht was substituted for the horse which Details: Venue: Time: Cost: TMQ INTERNATIONAL PTY LTD was mounted on the top. RQYS Sailing Academy Classroom 7 pm Nil Please register your attendance with the Administration office on 3396 8666 1/18 Alexandra Pl Murarrie Qld 4172 Phone 07 3890 7788/Fax 07 3890 7799 www.tmq.com.au 1800 777 835 30 mainsheet Royal Queensland Yacht Squadron Spring Since 1974

TMQ Ad CPlot Ad A4.indd 1 19/09/12 10:34 AM World Class Navigation TMQ C-Plot

TMQ C-Plot is an intuitive and easy to use  Market-leading computer-based chart-plotting system, computer-based incorporating features developed within the plotting system fishing industry.  User-friendly It is suitable for both professional operation and recreational users.  Powerful plotting TMQ C-Plot utilises functionality with C-Map Max Pro vector charts great versatility or Seafarer raster charts.

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TMQ INTERNATIONAL PTY LTD 1/18 Alexandra Pl Murarrie Qld 4172 Phone 07 3890 7788/Fax 07 3890 7799 www.tmq.com.au 1800 777 835 Sincewww.rqys.com.au 1974 mainsheet 31

TMQ Ad CPlot Ad A4.indd 1 19/09/12 10:34 AM sea mist - owner ray munro

The Power Boat Cruising Group Well here we were with our new family member, fRIVolous. A ‘stink’ boat to add to our flotilla of ‘stick’ boats. My husband Steve and I and our three boys Daniel, Jordan and Ryan were up for an adventure and at Easter we headed out for the first time with the RQYS Power Boat Cruising Group for the Bribie Best Island Cruise. As ‘newbies’ to the Cruising Group we were concerned about a few things. The noise we make as a family, not knowing anyone else, not knowing FAMILY FUN the area we were going to and not knowing how much we would have to participate when we just love doing our own thing.

Our Family But we found there was nothing to worry about. What a ball we had. We travelled places we’d never Power Boat Cruising Adventures been before. We met and enjoyed the company By Jo Best of a group of lovely people. We swam, paddled, bomb dived, crabbed, fished, played football, read books, ate, drank and slept! The kids were brilliant – they made their own fun and interacted with the adults so well.

We dealt with all the usual assortment of family holiday excitements - child vomiting in bed, using the closest bucket (the salad bowl!), washing sheets off the back of the boat in the middle of the night, boat alarm going off at 5am in the morning and dinghy engines not wanting to work. Has this deterred us? No way. Have we attended more Cruising Group events since? Absolutely!

32 mainsheet Royal Queensland Yacht Squadron Spring We have to work around sports and If you have a boat and a family to ranging from 20 foot to over 50 foot social calendars and in most cases go with it – why not try a cruise with and cruising speeds from 6 to 26 we arrive a little later than the others the Power Boat Cruising Group – knots, it’s not the speed or size that and launch straight into cruising the support is fantastic, you get to matters, it’s the company. ‘mode’. We do not have a massive enjoy our beautiful bay and use that boat, but we make ‘fRIVolous’ work boat you enjoy so much. We look To register your interest and for for us. In fact other members were forward to meeting you! more information on upcoming wondering how we all fit! Cruise events, please contact the The Power Boat Cruising Group Power Boat Cruising Group. Whether you enjoy the company of is a fantastic way to meet like Chairman – Mick Atkinson others or just want your own space minded people whilst exploring Ph 0408 366 355 – the cruising group gives you the our waterways. Cruise events are Email – [email protected] freedom to participate how and organised for most months of the Secretary – Dawn Threlfall when it suits. year and we travel to many beautiful Ph 0434 048 005 destinations throughout Moreton Email – [email protected] Bay and beyond. With powerboats

www.rqys.com.au mainsheet 33 CALENDAR OF EVENTS

MONDAY TUESDAY WEDNESDAY THURSDAY FRIDAY SATURDAY SUNDAY 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 School Holiday Sail Cruising - Rivergate Introduction to Sailing International Boat Show Long Round the Bay 1 - 3 Oct 5 - 7 Oct Race Optimist Training Camp 1 - 3 Oct

8 9 10 11 12 13 14 WAGS Power Cruise - Manly Combined Clubs Tangalooma Race 13 - 14 Oct

15 16 17 18 19 20 21 WAGS Trivia Night in the St Helena Cup Term 4 - School Team RQ Bar 20 - 21 Oct Racing Sail Cruising - Blakesleys 20 - 21 Oct

22 23 24 25 26 27 28 WAGS 42 Year Warrior Lunch 2012 Beneteau Cup & Term 4 - School Team French Yacht Challenge Racing

Farr 30-40 Regatta 27 - 28 Oct

29 30 31 WAGS

MONDAY TUESDAY WEDNESDAY THURSDAY FRIDAY SATURDAY SUNDAY 1 2 3 4 Meet our Olympians Goodwill Cup Navigation Goodwill Cup Return – Mathew Belcher & Event & Sailing Event Race (Sail) Malcdolm Page Term 4 - School Team Racing

5 6 7 8 9 10 11 Melbourne Cup WAGS Around the Cans Race Luncheon Term 4 - School Team Racing

12 13 14 15 16 17 18 WAGS Power Cruise - Day’s Long Round the Bay Gutter Race

Kingfisher Night Series Term 4 - School Team Racing

19 20 21 22 23 24 25 WAGS Seawind Regatta Sail Cruising - Brisbane 23 - 25 Nov River

26 27 28 29 30 WAGS Carols by Twilight NOVEMBER OCTOBER

34 mainsheet Royal Queensland Yacht Squadron Spring DECEMBER JANUARY 35 mainsheet 27 20 6 13 Childrens’ Christmas Childrens’ Party 9 Lomg Round the Bay Race 16 Race the Cans Around 30 2 23

Power Cruising - Aust Day Cruise 26 - 28 Jan Sail Cruising - Aust Day 26 - 28 Jan Weekend Cup Commodore’s 19 26 5 12 Summer Series Presentation 22 Kingfisher Night Series Kingfisher Night 8 Splice the Mainbrace 15 Australian 14’ Skiff C/ship 29 Dec - 6 Jan Australian C/ship Sabre 29 Dec - 4 Jan 1 18 25 4 11 Sail Cruising Christmas Dinner Sail Cruising - Karragarra Passage 21 28 29 7 14 AR OF EVENTS OF AR 17 Night in the Trivia RQ Bar 24 31 3 10 Trivia Night in the Night in Trivia RQ Bar 27 6 13 20 D WAGS WAGS WAGS 2 WAGS WAGS 9 30 23 16 WAGS 26 WAGS Boxing Day WAGS WAGS WAGS 5 12 19 CALEN 1 8 29 22 15 Christmas Day Clubhouse closed 11 18 4 25

MONDAY TUESDAY WEDNESDAY THURSDAY FRIDAY SATURDAY SUNDAY MONDAY TUESDAY WEDNESDAY THURSDAY FRIDAY SATURDAY SUNDAY Sail & Play 7 - 11 Jan 28 21 7 14 www.rqys.com.au 17 10 3 31 24

36 mainsheet Royal Queensland Yacht Squadron Spring Christmas Activities at the Squadron

Carols By Twilight Friday 30 November - 6 pm Join us while the girls from Moreton Bay College entertain you with some of your favourite Christmas carols

Children’s Christmas Party Sunday 2 December - 11 am Santa will be visiting to deliver the presents Jumping Castle Face Painting Party food for the children FILL OUT THE ENCLOSED FORM TO ENSURE YOUR CHILD RECEIVES A PRESENT FROM SANTA Forms to be returned by Friday 16 November

Splice the Mainbrace Saturday 8 December - 5:30 pm Traditional Christmas drinks with the Commodore All members and their guests welcome (non-member guests $25) Please advise of your attendance for catering purposes by Thursday 6 December

Drawing of Emirates Raffle

www.rqys.com.au mainsheet 37 RQ TRADER

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Andrew Woodforth Marine HYDE SAILS North Sails Brisbane Berth for Sale: 15m - j36 Your one STOP for all your boating An international supplier of quality Faster by Design $100,000 services - Antifouling, Vessel deliveries, racing and cruising sails for yachts, Contact: Mark Bradford or T: 3390 4575 Detailing, Refits, Project Management, multis, one design and trailerables Vaughan Prentice In-water hull cleaning, Engine servicing, Call Rick Byerley - 0418 723 328 T: 3396 5822 / F: 3396 5855 Stickers and Striping, Carpet laying/ E: [email protected] www.northsails.com.au cleaning, Varnishing, Engineering, www.hydesails.com/australia Provisioning, Repairs, Brokerage. Oceana Yacht Brokers Pty Ltd For all enquiries call Andrew IAN EASTGATE Owned and operated by Mike Davidson M: 0409 479 204 / qualified boat builder RQYS Member since 1972 E: [email protected] Building fine timber boats - dinghies Buying or selling a boat? www.andrewwoodforthmarine.com.au to cruisers and yachts - luxury fit outs, We’d like to help you! restorations and reparis T/F: 3396 4400 M: 0418 741 581 Australiawide Boat Sales - Manly M: 0418 742 942 - T: 3348 6564 East Coast Marina E: [email protected] PROFESSIONAL BOAT CARE Whether buying or selling call club Polishing, detailing, cleaning and member Euan MacDonald and his team. Inflatables RIBs Marine (IRM) maintenance - on time and on budget. Free boat valuations for Club members 2/1356 Lytton Rd, Hemmant Our website testimonials say it all! T: 07 3348 3177 - M: 0412 659 315 INFLATABLE BOAT SALES & REPAIRS Peter Jenyns - M: 0409 930 888 [email protected] HONDA OUTBOARD SLAES & SERVICE www.professionalboatcare.com.au www.australiawide.com T: 61+ (07) 3390 7133 www.inflatablesribsmarine.com Seadog Marine Systems Builder: PRO BUILDER - www.airib.com.au Leaders in Servicing, Design and jim mCintyre Fabrication of Fuel, Hydraulics, Black, Commercial & Residential jeanneau yachts qld Grey, Fresh Water and Bilge Systems, High quality, professional building Represented by Fuel Polishing, Engine Alignments services that meet client needs and take South East Yachting Qld and Servicing, Tanks, Running Gear, the hassle out of the building process M: 0418 723 328 - Rick Byerley Desalination Plants and all Survey [email protected] - M: 0438 749 274 M: 0439 715 133 - Bill Ker Requirements. www.seyachting.com.au Shed 1, RQYS Marine Centre David’s Custom Trimmers Pty Ltd Call Arthur Ballen - M: 0422 244 214 Quality Marine Upholstery and Covers, John L Gower MARINE INTERIORS Biminis, Spray Dodgers, Clear Screens, Qualified cabinet maker with 25 years SPEED PROPULSION PTY LTD Sail Covers, Cushions, Carpets and all marine experience in interior fit outs, or David O’Shea, Marine Engineer covers. for that one off furniture piece Propellers, shafts, rudders, stern tubes, Trade Shed 5 RQYS | T: 3396 4328 Call John: 0403 825 561 anchor winches, all underwater gear www.davestrimmers.com and repairs. Marine Park, 189 Molle Rd, Gumdale MARINA CONCIERGE Denman Marine T: 3245 4927 - M: 0421 548 614 Specialising in interior & pre-sale Professionally built dinghies and detailing, pre/post voyage cleaning, day trailers using Tasmania’s finest laundry service, Marine Business sitters. Team Yachting timbers. Traditional clinker boats a Vanessa Freebairn - M: 0402 184 537 Corporate sailing and team building specialty. Modern timber composite New Sydney 36 Yachts now available. boats also available. Very competitive Contact Mike Freebairn rates. Phone Andrew Denman Accredited Marine Surveyors T: 3396 1711 - M: 0407 911 010 M: 0413765984 to discuss your next Marine Matters Pty Ltd www.teamyachting.com.au boat. All types of inspections e: andrew @denmanmarine.com.au E: [email protected] w: www.denmanmarine.com.au T: 07 3890 2105 - F: 07 3390 7471 Ultimate Sails www.marinematters.com.au Your Local Sailmaker, Andrew Turner Racing, Cruising, repairs and covers for Freezetec Marine Refrigeration all boat sizes and Air CONDITIONING MASTHEAD DESIGN & CREATIVE T: 3348 7245 - M: 0409 057 689 Specialists in Boat Refrigeration and Air For your business ashore or afloat: www.ultimatesails.com Conditioning 25 years’ experience in advertising, Custom Manufactured Systems marketing, book publishing, print, Portable Refrigeration illustration, logos, rebranding, Vessel Surveys - Maritime Ice Makers stationery, annual reports, flyers, Solutions Please call Mal Parker - T:3286 3522 merchandise and much more. Pre-purchase, insurance survey reports. www.freezetec.com.au Matthew Tesch – M: 0406 777 077 Society of Accredited Marine Surveyors, E: [email protected] SAMS International Institute of Marine Surveying IIMS and ABYC Goodline Trimming Peter - M: 0407 736 331 We maintain an exceptional reputation MDBS Australia (SEQ) www.maritimesolutions.net.au for producing 1st class timeless marine Power and Sail Brokers, Insurance. interiors/exteriors, products and Committed to quality, service and services. These include all trimming satisfaction – Network Est: 1977 and upholstery services such as seating, 9 Australian offices carpet, clears, biminis, covers, canopies Mike Freebairn and much more. If you require quality [email protected] workmanship and great service, T: 3396 1711 – M: 0407 911 010 why not give us a call? M: 0411 859 707 T: 3245 2755 Muir Marine Qld W: www.goodlinetrim.com.au Qlds Yachting Specialists Contact Jason Muir Hood SailMakers (National and World Etchell Champion) Sails – New or secondhand Open 7 days 8 - 5 pm Repairs, Bimini Covers 453 Esplanade Manly Advertise here Call Ian Davis T: (07) 3893 1022 or T: 3396 9988 - F: 3893 2029 Contact Lynne: M: 0419 799 958 www.muirmarine.com. au or email: [email protected] [email protected]

38 mainsheet Royal Queensland Yacht Squadron Spring Welcome Aboard

The following applications for membership were recently approved. We extend a warm welcome to all our new members and look forward to seeing you at the Squadron soon!

FULL MEMBERS CREW MEMBERS Conrad Dorrough Shane Atkinson Gertruida Pool Andrew Knox Mark Bell Louis Pool David Smith John Bleddyn Damian Pugh Shane Bleddyn John Simmers JUNIOR MEMBERS Daniel Blight Rod Smith Thomas Bleddyn Gerard Bowers Peter Symons Cameron Gise Jason Coats Matthew Symons James Hodgson Paul Higgins Peter Taylor Jacob Whitford Belinda Howard Adam Tedman Dan Howard Bruno Teixeira ASSOCIATE MEMBERS Alan Littlefield Andrew Ward Bruce Martin Kaliopi Boote Max Mason YOUNG ADULT MEMBERS Pauline Boyes Andrew McMaster Jamie Metcher Annie Danks SOCIAL MEMBERS Daine Mulkearns Simon Boote Lee Nott Barbara Mossman Neil O’Hare Carmel Sullivan Edward Phelan

For Sale MEANDER (ex Navy Jacket) 50’ Caterson Pilothouse Motor Cruiser

Designed and built by Pat Caterson (Gold Coast), this composite constructed motor yacht is ideal for someone wanting an economical, easily handled, long range cruiser. Powered by a single 6-71 Detroit and equipped with Bow and Stern Thrusters, she is the perfect combination for a cruising couple. Her two cabin layout includes an island double master stateroom and twin berth guest’s cabin as well as a skippers bunk in the pilothouse. An impressive inventory includes features such as, Naiad Hydraulic Stabilizers, 2,800 Litre Fuel Capacity, 1,000 Litre Water Capacity, 8kva Generator, Inverter, Air Conditioning, Transom Davits and an electric folding davit on the roof. 4 Burner Electric Cooktop, Microwave & Eutectic Refrigeration in the Galley and a complete range of electronics including Depth Sounder, GPS/Plotter, Radar and Auto Pilot. Available for inspection on the Gold Coast.

Asking: $575,000 | Contact: GEORGE ROSE - 0415 753 757 for further details

www.rqys.com.au mainsheet 39 Brisbane to Keppel – The Start

Ocean Affinity

Bribie Star

40 Bluebottle

Ragtime Bad Habits

The Winner - Wild Oats XI www.rqys.com.au mainsheet 41 Book Review

Snow Flower and the Secret Fan A Man You Can Bank On Author: Lisa See Author: Derek Hansen Review: Clare Fraser Review: Sheila Virgo

Snow Flower and the Secret Fan is a beautifully written, This is a book that will make you laugh out loud. Take moving and powerful fictional account of the lives of two a small dying outback town in New South Wales, give young Chinese girls born in a remote part of China in it $3 million dollars, an entrepreneurial redundant 1823. Despite their differing backgrounds Lily and Snow bank manager, a group of town people willing to try Flower enter into a formal contract, arranged by the local anything and miracles do happen. matchmaker, to become lifelong friends or Lantongs. This friendship sustains them through the many ordeals 10 years later give the town a young inquisitive police of childhood and foot binding, through their arranged officer, release the villains who have been serving marriages and then motherhood, up until Snow Flower’s time for the grand robbery of Sydney bookmakers, death. add a pair of hired killers and a crooked insurance investigator and you have a recipe for a good story. Through an excellent arranged marriage, only made possible by Lilly’s perfectly formed and bound feet (golden This book is a farce, everything about it is larger than lilies), she is destined to rise from her humble origins to life even the town’s name “Munni-Munni” is a joke. become Lady Lu. Snow Flower, as a result of her father’s The characters are worthy of a film in the tradition of opium addiction and bankruptcy, is forced into a poor and “Working Dog” I loved Mick – the pale skin, freckled unhappy marriage. Living their entire lives in the women’s’ red headed aborigine and his wife Esmay – who quarters of their homes the girls meet only occasionally cooked his kangaroo in a fire pit between the wrecked but correspond through “nu shu” written into the folds cars and then went inside for a “spag bol”, and it of a secret fan. Nu Shu is a secret and beautiful written is hard not to like the mad midget Maurice and his language developed by Chinese women that is almost a animatronics which are so real they can scare people to subtle art form in its own right; sadly many examples of death. Nu Shu were destroyed during China’s much later Cultural Revolution. All the characters are worth a mention, you’ll have to read it to find out the end, enjoy the ride – it will leave See’s evocative and sweeping prose combined with you laughing. detailed and fascinating research lift this book above many others written in a similar genre. The message that transcends all others is the importance of loyalty, trust and friendship and in particular the friendships that exist between women. It also examines many human frailties and how these failings conspire to bring about misunderstandings and tragedy.

This novel generated long and lively debate at the RQYS Book Group. Everyone found it fascinating, many found it deeply upsetting (particularly the foot binding passages) and the character of Lilly caused deep division with half feeling she was as much a victim of time and place as Snow Flower and others feeling she was no friend to Snow Flower at all! These polarised opinions only served to emphasise one of the key messages of the book ..... and that is the importance of valuing our friends for the individuals that they are – we are all different - but at the same time, sisters under the skin.

42 mainsheet Royal Queensland Yacht Squadron Spring 3 ways to maximise every dollar in your SMSF. We knowhow.

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Mark Buchbach took his brand new boat Raptor a Stealth 850 to Mooloolaba with a full complement of RQ members as crew and won every race over the line on corrected time. Well done!

Crew: Mark Bradford, James Chillman, Ashley Deeks, Rory Lynch & Jason McLaren Raffle in support of our youth sailors Draw date extended

Our raffle for two business class air fares to any one of Emirates European destinations has been extended and will now be drawn on Saturday 8 December - the original draw date was Saturday 1 September. Mark Gallagher Peter Talbot Sylvia Talbot Paul Bolton John Chiplin Brain Plunkett This raffle raises the much needed funds to support Glennis Anderson Susie Jones Colleen Roberts our young sailors in their endeavours to participate in Ged Glancy David Lane Alan Carlisle international competition.

For your chance to win this fabulous prize and to support our up and coming sailors please contact the Administration office to purchase a ticket.

Tickets $20 each – only 1,000 available Get your’s now!!

Aldred Russon MANAGING DIRECTOR Mobile: 0457 253 733 Ph: 0439 734 394 [email protected]

[email protected]

44 mainsheet Royal Queensland Yacht Squadron Spring Music Under the Stars

www.rqys.com.au mainsheet 45 Boat Care Basics

sAFETY GEAR BY pETER jENYNS - PROFESSIONAL BOAT CARE

To some boat owners, safety In my experience the following Carrying PFD’s onboard your boat is equipment is nothing more than items are the most commonly compulsory. You must have a PFD something that takes up valuable checked by Boating Patrol Officers for every person onboard and one storage space onboard – especially and as the captain, it is your of the new rules is that you must lifejackets! It’s usually hidden away responsibility to provide a safe brief your crew before departure as in a locker somewhere and only ever environment for you and your crew. to where they are. You are also now thought of when a Boating Patrol required to have a sticker clearly vessel comes alongside. To add Lifejackets identifying their location within a insult to injury, you are informed Probably the most basic and locker. about all the new rules you haven’t important piece of safety gear you even heard about, and as the can own is a quality lifejacket or When the Boating Patrol Officer patrol officer writes you a marine Personal Flotation Devices (PFD). asks to inspect your PFD’s, they infringement notice for your out- But of course, it’s not much use will not only be confirming every of-date flares, (could have sworn I unless you wear it or know where crew member has a PFD and knows bought new ones only last year!), they are stored for emergency where they are stored, but also your old EPIRB and poor quality life access. jackets, you curse yourself for not taking the safety of yourself and A comfortable PFD is essential. Mine has a Personal Locating crew more seriously. But just like Beacon attached, water activated your annual engine service, you light and waterproof torch in a need to be servicing your safety storage pocket equipment and keeping abreast of the ever-changing rules. I’m certainly no expert on safety gear rules and regulations, but like most of us, I’ve been on the water long enough to know that the Boating Patrol will eventually catch up with you, or worse still, your life may depend upon this equipment some day.

I STRONGLY ENCOURAGE EVERY BOAT OWNER TO VIEW THE MARITIME SAFETY QUEENSLAND WEBSITE WWW.MSQ.QLD.GOV.AU CLICK ON ‘SAFETY’ AND EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW IS THERE, INCLUDING ALL THE LATEST UPDATES.

I hear some pretty frightening stories from time to time about people who end up in the water, after falling from their boats. Their near-death encounters certainly help reinforce the importance of having well-maintained safety gear onboard.

46 mainsheet Royal Queensland Yacht Squadron Spring the condition of the PFD and that it meets the Australian Standards. They will also check that you have the appropriately sized PFD for any children onboard.

I’m amazed at how many people skimp when purchasing a PFD. To my way of thinking, if I was floating around in the ocean, I would be pretty cranky with myself that for the sake of a few extra dollars I had purchased an inferior product that could let me down.

There is a great range of quality PFD’s these days, but if you are going to wear one frequently, then go for comfort. Try them on as they are all quite different, around the neck especially. I’m a big fan of the manual or auto inflate ‘yoke’ When underway at night it is style PFD’s. They can be worn essential to wear your PFD and comfortably all day and night if a harness is also a must necessary, and easily stowed when not in use due to their low volume. Their only downside is they require regular servicing and are slightly turned out to be a semi submerged on, I quickly realised this situation more expensive to purchase – but upturned trailer boat with two in open water would be near again, what cost do you put on your guys holding onto the tow eye by impossible. or your crews’ life? We generally their fingers. They were utterly handle the servicing of these PFD’s exhausted and had no life jackets Of course travelling at night or on annually when we service our clients’ on. Later they explained it was just busy waterways, and especially life rafts. Just like renewing the too hard to swim under the boat to when solo boating are all ‘must registration of your EPIRB, servicing retrieve them. These guys were very wear’ situations. your safety gear should become lucky as no one else crossed the Bar routine. that morning and they were beyond I do a fair amount of offshore swimming ashore. solo fishing as the kids are still a There are rules about where and little young to join me out there. when you must wear a PFD, but Another example where wearing a Because of this, I have gone even as always, common sense should PFD is important is when travelling further and added a personal EPIRB dictate when they are worn. with young kids in small boats. or Personal Locating Beacon (PLB) When my children were very little, to my PFD. When activated my PLB Wearing a PFD crossing coastal I thought a good exercise to get actually gives out the coordinates bars is a must and you’ll see a list of them comfortable with wearing their which hopefully will help pinpoint designated coastal bars on the MSQ lifejackets would be to jump into my position more accurately and website. A few years ago a friend the pool with them on. It hadn’t speed up a rescue. (Pity they don’t of mine was crossing the South really dawned on me that I should also have a built in shark repellent). Passage Bar on a midweek morning. also be wearing a PFD. However, Another tip is to attach the engine Conditions weren’t great and it was after experiencing the three of kill switch cord to your belt. Of an ebb tide. As they cleared the them clinging onto me while I tried course you don’t have that option outer edge breakers something desperately to keep my head above on a larger vessel but then you caught their eye. On approach it water and get my own lifejacket probably aren’t solo boating either! www.rqys.com.au mainsheet 47 Life rafts should be serviced annually

Only a couple of years ago you wet night in the unlocked ranger’s EPIRBS may recall an incident off Tweed vehicle before flagging down the All vessels operating beyond Heads when a solo fisherman fell first vessel to pass by. As a side smooth and partially smooth overboard near Kirra Reef which is note, the yacht continued on and waters must carry the new 406 about 3 to 4nm NE of the Tweed ended up on the Moreton Banks, MHz digital EPIRB if more than two Bar. His boat was spotted doing largely undamaged. nautical miles from land. Obviously circles late in the afternoon with EPIRBs should only be used when no one onboard. If he had been Solo boating is one thing, but there is a threat of grave and wearing his kill switch, and even having instant access to your PFD’s imminent danger and they must be better, a PFD with a PLB, he could is critical should your vessel strike registered. This registration needs have avoided his terrifying and an unseen submerged object and to be renewed every two years and exhausting 6 hour swim, at night to sink within seconds. Expect the the Boating Patrol will ask to see Fingal Heads. Luckily he was a fit unexpected. Only last weekend a the registration sticker to confirm it young guy and the water was warm! game-fisherman I know spotted an hasn’t expired. You can get all the estimated 9 metre wide transom latest information on requirements Another incident worth mentioning section of what appeared to be and registration from the MSQ occurred off St Helena Island a year a wrecked catamaran floating at website. or so ago. One of our members surface level out on the Continental was passing the jetty at St Helena Shelf. This would sink a boat very Navigation Lights Island early one morning when quickly if struck at speed. I mention these because one of our they noticed an elderly gentleman club members got booked recently waving frantically at them in nothing Flares by the Boating Patrol while returning but a pair of underpants. It turns Another basic item the Boating to the marina from Peel Island at out he had fallen off his yacht which Patrol is going to ask to see is your night. His boat is professionally was on auto pilot the afternoon flares. They have a 3 year expiry maintained and in perfect condition, before. Somehow he had managed date from the date of manufacture. he carries an 8 man life raft which to grab the transom ladder and Again check the MSQ website to we service yearly and has all the hang on for a while, but unable to ensure you are compliant with which correct safety equipment onboard. pull himself aboard he eventually types you need. Disposal of out of However, unbeknown to him, his lost his strength and grip. Luckily he date flares should be done at your starboard nav light had decided managed to survive the swim ashore local Coast Guard, VMR or Water to stop working due to corrosion through the middle of the night. He Police, not on the stroke of midnight on the terminals. It goes to show spent a very unpleasant, cold and on New Years Eve! how important it is to always take

48 mainsheet Royal Queensland Yacht Squadron Spring 4. Make sure you have upgraded to the 406MHz EPIRB and that it is currently registered with the Australian Maritime Safety Authority. This will need to be renewed every two years and can be done online. 5. Ensure you have met your vessel’s requirements with flares i.e. offshore or smooth water etc and they are not expired. 6. You need a signalling device such as a torch. 7. Again, I encourage you to check the MSQ website to ensure you have all the other appropriate items for your vessel such as capacity stickers, oars, V sheet, bailing and anchoring Set up a waterproof grab bag for emergencies equipment etc and keep it close to the helm station

a look and ensure they are working when the Boating Patrol calls Join a Coastguard or VMR before heading off. In this case it alongside. You can hand them At Manly we are lucky to have the would have simply been a matter the bag containing everything Coastguard Brisbane stationed of wiggling the bulb to give better for checking with ease. I was within the harbour. They provide contact and at least get him home recently surprised to be flagged an excellent rescue service and for before properly repairing them. down by the Boating Patrol in the a minimal yearly membership fee relatively remote northern area of will provide one free tow back to Fire Extinguishers Platypus Bay, Fraser Island. After the marina should the unimaginable All vessels over five metres in I handed them my grab bag and happen. Give them a call and join length must carry equipment they checked my lifejacket, which up; they can do with the support. capable of extinguishing a fire admittedly resembles Batman’s quickly and effectively. Ensure the utility belt, I think they realised I take extinguishers are suitable for your my safety gear seriously and I hope PETER JENYNS OPERATES needs. Fire extinguishers must be they appreciated that! serviced by the manufacturer or an PROFESSIONAL BOAT authorised agent before the expiry Safety gear check list CARE WHICH SPECIALISES dates. Of course if the equipment is 1. Get online and review the MSQ IN BOAT DETAILING AND inoperable it must be replaced. website to familiarise yourself MAINTENANCE PROGRAMS. with your obligations. IF YOU HAVE ANY Set up a grab bag 2. Ensure your PFD’s meet the One thing I like to check with the Australian Standards and you are QUESTIONS FEEL vessels I maintain is that they have carrying one for every person FREE TO CALL HIM a good emergency grab bag near onboard, including children’s ON 0409 930 888 OR the helm station. Apart from the sizes if necessary. VISIT HIS WEBSITE obvious benefits of being able 3. Inflatable PFD’s should be PROFESSIONALBOATCARE. to grab everything instantly in an serviced annually and service emergency, they are also handy history available for inspection COM.AU FOR MORE BOAT MAINTENANCE ARTICLES.

Euan Manly Advert. 14/9/05 9:01 PM Page 1

Now at East Coast Marina australiawide manly • newport www.australiawide.com To list your boat or buy a new one, simply give Euan a call on 3348 3177 Or email: [email protected]

www.rqys.com.au mainsheet 49 THERE’S MORE THAN ONE WAY TO SELL A BOAT!

The question of whether to auction auction. This avoids the situation of that have plied the waters of the or sell will always spark debate, so purchasers making offers subject to Brisbane River for 26 years. what is the best way to market and undesirable conditions. sell a boat? The simple answer The mega auction will be an exciting could be ‘what do you prefer?’ but A finite period of intense marketing climax to Brisbane’s only on water what is really involved in getting the and advertising also alleviates boat show, featuring vessels ranging best outcome. a boat having to be maintained from tinnies to super yachts, power and presented for months and and sail boats, leisure craft, marine The concept of selling is fairly sometimes years in a bid to sell. products, accessories and numerous straightforward, ask for a price other suppliers to the industry. and hope to get it or an offer Marine Auctions Principal, Adrian somewhere near it – eventually. Seiffert, has more than 30 years in “I am passionate about bringing the auction industry and knows what the boating industry back to better If you want to auction your boat, the works, and what doesn’t. days and this Boat Show offers the process is somewhat different, but perfect platform to do that at a the opportunity exists to achieve “We carry out a very aggressive and quality, purpose built marine venue, more than you asked for. While a unique marketing strategy providing the Rivergate precinct,” Mr Seiffert professional evaluation of a boat will maximum exposure, in the shortest said. determine true market value, often possible time frame. We do not competing interests will push the wait for buyers to come to us. We In addition to a host of exhibitors, price up. proactively go to them. Our large both on and off the water, the 3 day and data base and our mailing lists Rivergate International Boat Show The auction system also offers a of potential buyers are the envy of will have a family friendly flavour number of other benefits for a seller. many in the industry,” he said. with food, fashion and fun for all.

An auction program will focus An auction can also provide the The Rivergate International Boat on marketing a boat for a limited catalyst to promote buyer interest. Show runs from Friday 5th October period, hence attracting serious With this in mind Mr Seiffert has to Sunday 7th October from 9am buyers during that time, rather brought the best of both ways to to 5pm daily. Entry $10 adults. than ‘tyre kickers’, those with more buy and sell boats at the Rivergate Children under 17 free. curiosity than cash. Conversely, International Boat Show to be held a boat owner going to auction at Rivergate Marina and Shipyard, www.rivergateboatshow.com.au displays to the public that he or she Murarrie. More than 50 boats, new Phone: 0400 413 391 has a genuine intention to sell and is and used, and some unreserved not just testing the market. will go under the hammer at “The Special Event” auction on Sunday 7 The seller and the auctioneer are October from 1pm. The pinnacle of in a dominant and controlling this mega auction will be the offer position, and the seller sets the for sale of the Kookaburra Queens terms on which he wishes to sell at 1 and 2, the iconic paddle wheelers

50 mainsheet Royal Queensland Yacht Squadron Spring On the Brisbane River

Tickets $10 – kids* are free! 5–7 October 2012 (*under 17 and accompanied by an adult) Friday, Saturday & Sunday 9am to 5pm Rivergate Marina & Shipyard, Rivergate Place, Murrarie, Brisbane The Special Boat Auction will be an exciting climax to the 3 day Boat Show. Sunday 7th October. Bidding starts at 1 p.m. www.rivergateboatshow.com.au

MARINE AUCTIONS

THE ALTERNATIVE WAY OF SELLING ANY TYPE OF VESSEL OR MARINE ASSET WITH PROVEN AND SUCCESSFUL RESULTS

REGULAR AUCTIONS: MARINE AUCTIONS & VALUATIONS BRISBANE: Rivergate Marina P.O. Box 170, Albion Queensland 4010 Adrian Seiffert 0418 783 358, Ph (07) 3268 3614 Fax (07) 3268 3760 [email protected] www.marineauctions.com.au ACTIVE RESULTS - AUSTRALIA WIDE

Marine Auctions were proud to sponsor the RQYS Opening Day 2012. Marine Auctions is a proud sponsor of the Rivergate International Boat Show 2012.