Inaugural Water Safety Month
New Zealand’s first Water Safety Month was launched 18 October because too many people are dying in New Zealand waters.
Already this year 57 people have died in the water in preventable incidents*, compared to 66 in all of last year – that includes 18 recreational boaties, compared to just four in all of last year.
The Minister of Transport, Phil Twyford, joined representatives of the Safer Boating Forum in Auckland this morning as they launched the new initiative. The Forum comprises 24 boating and water safety organisations including Maritime NZ, Coastguard NZ, Surf Life Saving NZ, Water Safety NZ, Drowning Prevention Auckland, harbourmasters, the Marine Industry Association and many recreational organisations.
All the organisations – government, volunteer and sports bodies – are increasing collaboration to get water safety messages to people.
Water Safety Month is designed to get people thinking about preparing before they go in, on or around the water.
Maritime NZ started the month with Safer Boating Week leading up to Labour Day weekend, which is when many boaties get back on the water after winter. The theme was ‘prep, check, know’ – prep your boat, check your gear and know the rules before getting back on the water.
There are more programmes this year than ever before, to help people keep themselves safe. Some of them were on show at the launch.
Coastguard NZ has expanded its Old4New Lifejacket Upgrade, with the Old4New van visiting 63 locations around the country this summer. Maintenance and replacement is key to ensure lifejackets work when they are needed.
Surf Life Saving New Zealand says that the safest place to swim is between the red and yellow flags on a lifeguarded beach. Anyone who gets caught in a rip should remember and practice the three R’s – Relax and float, Raise your hand and Ride the rip to have the best chance of getting to safety.
Hundreds of thousands of boaties are now using small paddle craft, like kayaks and stand-up paddle boards, as well jet skis. The numbers are going up fast. People using these types of craft don’t always know the risks they face. This summer there will be new pilot programmes to meet people on the beaches and provide them with simple, fun advice and help, including one by the Kiwi Association of Sea Kayakers.
Water Safety NZ will be reinforcing its message around constant active adult supervision of toddlers and small children at all times around water. This year already there have been six fatalities involving under-fives.
Water Safety NZ’s annual funding round will this year invest $2 million in drowning prevention programmes. The main focus is Water Skills for Life training in primary schools. Water Safety NZ is also investing in Māori drowning prevention and regional water safety strategies in the high risk areas of Auckland, Waikato and Bay of Plenty.
The month will end at St Mary’s Bay with Drowning Prevention Auckland running a family, have-a-go Water Safety Day with all our organisations involved.
Boating and water safety organisations will then continue their safety programmes and events through summer.
* Preventable fatalities are those where water safety sector intervention could have had an influence (for example where the victim was boating, swimming, diving) while non-preventable include events such as suicides, homicides and vehicle accidents (where water safety education and activity would not have prevented the death).
Yachting NZ back to mediation
A team from Yachting New Zealand will return to the mediating table at the end of November as they work to protect the interests of all yachties and boaties.
Yachting New Zealand is worried about proposed changes in the new Northland regional plan that will impose rules, costs and restrictions to yachties and boaties that aren't fair. A first round of mediation was undertaken last month when chief operating officer Andrew Clouston and lawyer Jeremy Brabant appeared alongside other appellants.
The present case is
just one of a handful Yachting New Zealand have been involved with and the
national sports organisation are always engaged on some level of advocacy on
behalf of clubs and their members and the wider yachting and boating community.
Another case is presently being heard on the Marlborough environment plan.
The highest profile
case was Plan Change 4, which was a proposed change to
Northland Regional Council policy governing the establishment and management of
aquaculture in Northland, which resulted in a positive outcome.
These cases are often
expensive and time consuming but are important, particularly to those into
cruising and boating.
The present case
covers a some of the same territory as that from Plan Change 4. Yachting New
Zealand are:
- seeking anchorages in
Northland that are important to boaties are recognised appropriately by
definition in the plan - seeking that these
anchorages are mapped on recognised maps within the plan - seeking that decisions
made in the Plan Change 4 to do with aquaculture are carried over to the new
plan which provides protection to anchor and safely navigate routes free from
the establishment of new aquaculture - arguing
against the extent of proposed marine pollution boundaries being imposed
that could make it unsafe and impractical for boaties to empty their tanks.
Rules are already in place through the Resource Management Act 1994 - arguing against
restrictive rules being put in place around cleaning of a boat's hull
while in the water - arguing against the
introduction of tight restrictions on the number of consecutive days boats can
spend in any one area
"Essentially,
we're seeking for the provisions in the plan to be pragmatic and achievable
without adding extra costs to boaties or introducing potential limitations on
how we enjoy coastal marine areas," Clouston said.
"While the
present case might relate to Northland, it could have implications for other
areas and we don't it to set a precedent for other areas which is why we think
it's important to get involved."
You can learn more about
the advocacy work done by Yachting New Zealand
here.
ROLEX MIDDLE SEA RACE
The 40th edition of the Rolex Middle Sea Race starts on Saturday, 19 October. First staged in 1968 and organized by the Royal Malta Yacht Club, Rolex has been the title sponsor since 2002.
The 606 nautical mile race, which starts from Malta's Grand Harbour and takes in some of the Mediterranean’s most dramatic scenery, is always hugely popular. Last year, the 50th anniversary of the inaugural event drew a record fleet of 130. This year’s race has attracted another impressive entry of more than 100 international yachts.
Among those vying for overall victory, several crews boast an impressive pedigree at Rolex-partnered offshore races. American yachtsmen David and Peter Askew arrive fresh from winning the 2019 Rolex Fastnet Race with Wizard, while Frenchman Géry Trentesaux, a Rolex Fastnet winner himself, will defend his 2018 Rolex Middle Sea Race crown with Courrier Recommandé. Two-time race winner Lee Satariano of Malta has entered with a new boat, Artie III.
The Rolex Middle Sea Race is one of several bluewater classics Rolex has supported since the early 2000s, including the Rolex Fastnet Race and the Rolex Sydney Hobart Yacht Race. Each about 600 nm, they attract passionate Corinthian and professional sailors, ready to take on the unique challenges. The races are united through a partnership with the brand, whose commitment to ocean racing dates back more than half a century.
STRINGENT TEST OF SAILING SKILL
The October race date was originally chosen because of the potential for challenging conditions in this area of the Mediterranean at this time of year. At some point, a powerful weather system will test the abilities of all competitors. Rolex Testimonee Robert Scheidt, a five-time Olympic medallist, took part in 2009: “We had really strong winds on one night; the heaviest sea I have ever faced in my career. It was really tough. Many boats had to retire because the second half was so rough. We were exhausted, but it felt great to finish.”
The complexity of the four-sided course, part of which tracks the eastern and northern coasts of Sicily before returning the fleet to Malta via the islands of Pantelleria and Lampedusa, means crews can also encounter benign conditions posing other difficulties. Reflecting this unpredictability, in almost 20 years of Rolex involvement, the race record has been bettered only once, despite the presence of high-performing, well-prepared yachts.
In 2007, American yachtsman George David made his race debut with his 27.43 metre (90 foot) Rambler. At the end of a storm-ridden race, in which only 17 yachts finished, David had swept the board, taking line honours and overall victory, and setting the current benchmark of 47 hours, 55 minutes and three seconds.
This year, David returns with his latest 27 m (88 ft) Rambler, the fastest boat in the fleet and with greater potential than the record-setting version. David is widely expected to achieve a fifth successive line-honours victory. The bigger question is whether he can improve upon the fastest time. A commanding performance at this year’s Rolex Fastnet Race, when the crew came within one hour, 16 minutes of the race record, suggests weather, not preparation or skill, will decide the outcome.
SPECTACULAR RACECOURSE
Another feature of the racecourse is its natural beauty. Two active volcanoes and scores of rugged islands combine with frequent contact with wildlife to create a special experience. The start resembles a film set, with the Grand Harbour echoing to cannon fire from Valletta’s Saluting Battery as the fleet is sent on its way.
“The Rolex Middle Sea Race is the most beautiful race I have ever done,” adds Scheidt. “I remember passing Stromboli at midnight with the lava coming down. It was dark, but we could see the whole volcano. That image is one I’ll never forget.”
IN THE ASCENDANCY
The challenge of the open sea is perpetual and the capacity of the Rolex Middle Sea Race to attract large fleets confirms an enduring enthusiasm for the race and sailing offshore. Rolex’s commitment to this element of the sport is long-standing and forward-looking. The brand’s strong partnerships with the clubs that organize these races provides abundant opportunities for those inspired to test themselves.
Volvo Penta’s latest D6 propulsion package set new standards for high-speed vessels
Volvo Penta’s latest D6-440 DPI propulsion system is the power behind Swedish boatbuilder Marell’s new 15m fast patrol boat. Equipped with twin D6-440 DPI sterndrives, the Marell M15 has a top speed of 45 knots and includes a fully integrated system from Volvo Penta, including its Electronic Vessel Control (EVC.2) and Glass Cockpit System.
The Marell M15 debuted at this year’s Defence and Security Equipment International (DSEI) show in London.
The new Volvo Penta D6 DPI package includes a new engine management system, new fuel injection system, new turbocharger, and a new supercharger. The cylinder head, pistons, and valves are re-engineered to withstand higher torque as well as meeting higher reliability and durability requirements.
The Aquamatic sterndrive DPI has a new hydraulic clutch for smooth, silent shifting and controlled slipping at low speeds, for greater manoeuvrability and higher comfort at low boat speeds.
In top specification, Volvo Penta’s D6 boasts 480hp and offers up to 10% more power across the range than its predecessor. The Marell M15 has a fuel consumption of only 3.4L/nm at cruising speed (40 knots) making this package very competitive compared to other propulsion systems.
The navigator and helmsman sit in a unique ergonomically designed cabin equipped with the latest Volvo Penta technology – the EVC.2 and Glass Cockpit System. These control systems are a significant advantage.
This top-of-the-line boat – combined with Volvo Penta’s new propulsion and control packages – offers the highest speed in all seas, safe and trouble-free operations, unique performance and a patrol boat with the best acceleration and maneuverability in this class.
WIN WIN TAKES SUPERYACHT HONOURS
Win Win lived up to her name and emerged as the overall victor of the recent Superyacht Cup at Mallorca’s Palma Bay after three days of close racing.
The final St Regis Race was held on what proved to be the clearest day of the 23rd edition of Europe’s longest-running superyacht regatta, the Mallorcan mountains providing a stunning backdrop to the drama being played out on the water.
In Class A the 33m Win Win was able to secure her third successive victory, this one by the narrow margin of just 33 seconds on corrected time ahead of Nilaya. The triumph is a second SYC win for the Javier Jaudenes-designed Baltic Yacht-built boat, which also topped the table in 2016.
Said delighted skipper Ryan Taylor: “We are very happy – we worked for it and it wasn’t easy, but it was nice clean racing and we just kept it simple. The owner is very happy!” It was Class B that saw the closest racing, with three different winners in each of the races. Overall Topaz edged a single point ahead of her J-Class rival Velsheda to win the class, with the lightweight flyer Missy only a point further back in third.
Class C meanwhile went to the gorgeous 30m Stephens Waring Yacht Design Spirit of Tradition yawl Bequia, with Huckleberry and Kealoha tied on points in second and third.
The 24th edition of The Superyacht Cup Palma will be held from 17 to 20 June 2020.
BAN SET NETS TO SAVE DOLPHINS
The International Whaling Commission is calling on the government to stop commercial fishing with set nets and trawling in the range of Maui dolphins.
In a recently-released report the commission says it holds ‘grave concerns’ for critically-endangered Maui dolphins.
Forest & Bird marine conservation advocate Anton van Helden says as there are only about 63 Maui dolphins in the world the commission’s message should be heeded.
“New Zealand is usually on the side of whales and dolphins with our decades-long call to end whaling, but this time it’s the International Whaling Commission telling us to sort ourselves out. It’s time to stop fishing activities that pose a risk of endangered dolphins being caught as bycatch in set nets in New Zealand waters.”
Last year the commission issued recommendations to help prevent Maui dolphins from becoming extinct. These included “closures of any fisheries within the range of Maui dolphins that are known to pose a risk of bycatch to dolphins (i.e. set net and trawl fisheries).”
Forest & Bird recently launched a petition calling on the government to put in place a zero-bycatch goal to protect threatened species from commercial fishing.
REVIEW OF WOMEN IN SAILING
The World Sailing Trust has launched a global survey of women in sailing, looking at trends within sailing and the wider industry around gender disparity.
Part of a wider strategic review focused on increasing gender diversity across the sport, the survey will provide recommendations and actions for partners across the globe looking to be part of this change.
The results of the survey will be combined with research into global best practice, to form a series of recommendations and a programme of work to support women and girls across all areas of the sport.
Says Dee Caffari, Chair of the World Sailing Trust: “We want to understand more about women and girls in sailing: what attracts them, what puts them off, why they drop out, the perceived and real barriers to participation that they might face and how this varies across countries, ages, classes and competition and different elements of the sport – racing vs recreational vs officials.
“To complement this knowledge we also want to understand how women and girls’ participation could be increased and we strongly encourage the whole sailing and marine community to participate in the survey and tell their own story.”
Set up in 2018 by World Sailing, the World Sailing Trust has three areas of work which are closely linked – marine health, access and youth pathways.
The Strategic Review is being led by Victoria Low, and she and the team are keen to hear more from any individual with an interest in this area, and would encourage them to get in touch direct at Victoria.low@worldsailingtrust.org.
The initial findings of the Strategic Review will be presented to World Sailing’s stakeholders – Class Associations, Member National Authorities and Committee members – at World Sailing’s 2019 Annual Conference in Bermuda by Victoria Low and Hannah Goldie, the Trust’s Head of Fundraising, in October. Further insight will be delivered to the wider sailing and marine community at the Yacht Racing Forum in November.
CLEARING CUSTOMS IN WESTHAVEN
Panuku Development Auckland has established a new Port of First Arrival (PoFA) berth that enables vessels under 25m to clear in and out of customs from Westhaven Marina.
Westhaven manager Kevin Lidgard says the service will enable vessels visiting New Zealand to sail directly to Auckland to undertake refit, maintenance, and provisioning.
Around 600 boats visit New Zealand each year, including boats owned by New Zealanders returning to the country, a number expected to grow with the upcoming America’s Cup.
Vessels over 25m in length are catered for by facilities at nearby Viaduct and Silo Marinas but since the closure of the ‘Admiralty Steps’ several years ago, smaller boats arriving in the country have been required to arrive in Opua or Marsden Point – both many hours from Auckland by water.
“Yachts clearing into Westhaven will support the industry of marine services that are based in the area,” Lidgard says. “This includes major refits and small touch ups that need to be undertaken while visiting New Zealand.”
The marina has also just established a new berth for commercial vessels such as ferries to load passengers at its commercial base at Z Pier.
For more information visit www.westhaven.co.nz
NAVIGATION MARK GOES HOME
Germany has agreed to return a 15th century artefact – a Stone Cross – it removed from the Namibian coastline in the 1890s.
The 3.5m navigation mark was erected by Portuguese explorer Diogo Cão on the treacherous West African coastline in 1498. It was taken to Germany in 1893 after the area became a German imperial protectorate. The cross has been on display at Berlin’s German Historical Museum ever since.
The cross bears the Portuguese coat of arms and featured on numerous old-world maps.
In June 2017, the Namibian government formally requested its return. Germany’s Minister of State for Media and Culture, Monica Gruetters, says the return of the cross showed that the country was committed to accounting for its colonial past.
RETRO WHITBREAD IN 2023
The spirit of the Whitbread Round the World Race is back with the announcement of the 2023 Ocean Globe Race, a retro event starting from a European port in September 2023 to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the original race.
Organised by Australian adventurer Don McIntyre along similar lines to the highly successful 2018 Golden Globe Race (which he also founded), the 2023 Ocean Globe Race (OGR) will follow the original Clipper ship sailing route around the globe, just as the Whitbread Race did in 1973.
The course traces the classic four-leg route from Europe to Africa and on to Australasia, then back via a South American port: 27,000 miles and seven months passing under the three great Capes.
The final course will be published in late 2020, together with the Final Notice of Race. Cities in the UK, Europe, South Africa, Australia, New Zealand, Argentina, Uruguay and Brazil are being invited to bid to host the ports of call.
This retro race will be sailed on yachts similar to those entered in the first Whitbread, with technology limited to what was available to those 1973 pioneers. That means no hightech materials, computers, satellite systems (including phones and GPS), as well as mobile phones. Navigation will be limited to sextant plots on paper charts, communications via SSB and VHF radios, and music will be played on cassette tapes.
Entries are limited to ‘approved’ fibreglass production yachts designed prior to 1988, from 47ft (14.32m) to 66ft (20.11m) LOA segregated into two groups:
ADVENTURE 47 to 56ft (14.32-17.06m) & SAYULA 56-66ft (17.07-20.11m) classes. In addition, original entries from the first three Whitbread Races (1973-4, 1977-8 and 1981-2) together with ‘class-surveyed’ production sail training yachts up to 68ft (20.73m) make up a third FLYER Class.
The fleet is limited to a maximum of 30 yachts and the Race will be sailed under the International Collision Regulations. Each yacht must also include at least one woman and youth crew aged under 24 at the start of the race.
For further information visit:
or email Don McIntyre at
CARVING NUMBERS
Capturing the precision steering of a numerically-oriented helmsman earned Jersey photographer Marc Le Cornu a winner’s prize in the prestigious 2019 Drone Awards photo competition held recently in Siena, Italy.
The Drone Awards has become a leading event for aerial photographers looking to show off their work and connect with like-minded enthusiasts. More than 4,500 entries were submitted (from 107 countries) by professional photographers as well as amateur enthusiasts.
Prizes were awarded in seven categories: Abstract, Nature, People, Sport, Wildlife, Urban and Video. Le Cornu took the winning spot in the Abstract category.
The images can be viewed at www.droneawards.photo
EXPERTS DISCUSS OCEAN POTENTIAL
Leading scientific minds meet in Nelson this August to discuss the shift taking place in aquaculture – from sheltered waterways to open ocean farming.
New Zealand’s Cawthron Institute is hosting its inaugural Open Oceans aquaculture symposium, Unlocking the Potential of our Oceans. It will discuss the ways open ocean aquaculture developments in both shellfish and finfish farming could revolutionise the global aquaculture industry.
The country’s aquaculture industry is growing in response to globally increasing demand but is constrained by limited sheltered inshore farm space, says Cawthron Institute CEO Professor Charles Eason.
The new frontier is open ocean aquaculture, where large tracts of consented space are available but the farming process is challenging in exposed and dynamic waters. New engineering concepts and farming approaches are needed to realise this opportunity and provide confidence for industry investment.
“Cawthron Institute is advancing open ocean aquaculture technology through the development of new tools and methods to cost-effectively farm shellfish and finfish,”says Eason.
“This symposium will outline technological advancements from Cawthron scientists and global research leaders, as well as the social and economic impacts of open ocean aquaculture. There is a global demand for protein, and aquaculture is a good way to produce that protein, with potentially less impact than land-based farming.”
The symposium will bring to New Zealand Hans V. Bjelland, the director of Exposed Aquaculture at the centre for research-based innovation from Trondheim, Norway and Arndt Hildebrandt from the Ludwig-Franzius Institute for Hydraulic, Estuarine and Coastal Engineering in Hanover, Germany.
The symposium will be held from 5-7 August 2019 at the Rutherford Hotel in Nelson, New Zealand. For more information visit www.openoceans.nz
