Eden on the Sapphire Coast
Eden & Two Fold Bay you have been splendid … arrived into Two Fold bay on Tuesday after passing Gabo Island and being graced with Dolphins seemingly enjoying the wake of the bow of Nora J. Eden was a gorgeous little town founded in a history of Whaling – a skill already well established in […]
Sailing North For The Winter
CoVid has provided my wife and I an opportunity to take our boat NoraJ on a long coastal passage to Queensland. Prior to CoVid we were usually employed on a catamaran on the Mediterranean and didn’t have the time. We now do and Sue has six months leave so follow us on our adventures from […]
VHF Marine Radio
VHF Marine Radio Marine radio operators must have an appropriate Certificate of Proficiency. This may be obtained through the Office of Marine Communications that is part of the Australian Maritime College in Launceston, Tasmania. There are training courses available in Victoria and it can also be done remotely. http://www.amc.edu.au/industry/omc Following are just some of the […]
The Risks of Falling Overboard
As part of Marine Safety Victoria ‘Prepare to survive: Know the five’ campaign message, ‘Practise getting back on’ This Blog looks at the risk of falling overboard. Victorian boater David has shared his story of experiencing cold shock as part of the campaign. He jumped into the water to help release a rope in the […]
Why Is The Steering On The Starboard Side?
Boating has many origins and the location of the helm is based on both ancient customs and practical reasons. Steering on the (starboard) right-hand side is probably as old as boating itself. Origins The steering oar or rudder was on the right side of boats long before the invention of engines and propellers and the earliest boats were propelled […]
Navigation Lights
Keep it Simple Lights must be displayed on ALL vessels between Sunset and Sunrise and in restricted visibility. Every type of craft on the water needs lights in order to be seen. Whether you’re in a powerboat, a sailboat or paddling, other water users need to recognise where you are and what you’re doing. Mount […]
Channel Marks, do they matter?
Only if you don’t want to hurt somebody or wreck your boat! The correct names are Port and Starboard Laterals and they are the same everywhere around the world with the exception of American occupied countries. On a boat looking forward, Port (Red) is on the left and Starboard (Green) is on the right. We […]
Boating Season has Started!
Let’s set the mood with some pirate fun facts. The term Starboard comes from the old English or Anglo-Saxon term Steorboard. The universal term in nautical and aeronautical language refers to the rightside of the centreline of the vessel when standing from the rear facing in the direction the vessel is travelling. Eye patches weren’t […]
Marina Etiquette
There are many tips and tricks to berthing in marinas, many of which are obvious when you are there. These are the ones many people miss. 1. Tie your boat up securely so it doesn’t cause damage. When alongside you need a minimum of a bow, stern and two spring lines. Check out other boat […]
Is it Time to Winterise Your Boat?
Melbourne days are getting shorter and the weather is getting colder so maybe you’re not using the boat as much as you could? Before you put your boat away for the Melbourne winter, consider some tips to get a longer season and a better return on your investment. 1. Read the weather to your […]