This is the time to take interesting photos as the
boats are ref lected perfectly in the glassy water.
But whatever you do, do not untie your lines
yet or move. Soon the wind will back and race in
from the opposite direction. This is when most
damage seems to occur. What has been loosened
can be ripped away by the second onslaught.
It is important to keep listening to the VHF as
well as TV and commercial radio for updates.
Once the cyclone has passed over it will
generally turn into a rain depression. Mariners
should maintain a listening watch on VHF 16
and 12. There could be debris in the harbour
in which case it will remain closed until the
Harbour Master deems it safe for boats to return
to their moorings and berths.
Under no circumstances must you leave your
designated cyclone anchorage until permission
is given, then head back slowly and sedately. You
never know what will be in the water so proceed
with care. If you decide to remain where you are
for a while longer remove all unnecessary lines
so that vessels behind you can move if required.
Another very important thing to remember
is that at all times during the cyclone including
getting to and from your designated cyclone
anchorage you are in control of and responsible
for, your vessel. Despite regular practices of the
past, this is not 'party time'.
Unfortunately, many people stock up on
alcohol then raft their boats together and begin
to drink. By the time the cyclone has come and
gone these people are four sheets to the wind
and are illegally moving their vessels as they
make their way back. ≈ABOVE: Going,
going, gone.
This boat hit the
wall at 11:26am
on March 28.26
Cruising Helmsman June 2017Rosemary Jilderts is a
long-time cruiser, known
for her many articles
on the cruising life and
also for her in-depth
research into legislation
and regulations relating to maritime
issues affecting the boating public.ROSEMARY JILDERTS
DO’S
- Download the EWECP for your area from
http://www.msq.qld.gov.au and read it! - Visit the suggested shelter area or inlet if you
are not staying in a cyclone-rated marina. If
you are talk to marina management for their
requirements. Arrange for your boat to be
moved if necessary if you will be away during
cyclone season. - Make sure the authorities have your current
contact details. Have a list of emergency
phone numbers handy eg. regional harbour
master, VMR, police. - Know when and where your vessel needs to
be if an evacuation is called. Have plenty of
strong line to secure the boat understanding
that rope has more ‘give’ than chain. Make
sure lines are in good condition and a suitable
size and length. - Secure loose articles below deck. Secure all
hatches, ports and cupboard doors. Make
sure the boat is watertight. - Reduce wind loading by removing furled sails,
covers, clears, and awnings. Check that all
fittings such as cleats, bollards, are secure.
Deflate and store inflatable dinghies. - Check bilge pumps work and all self-draining
holes are unobstructed. - Accept all help if offered, offer help
when possible. - Make sure your insurance policy is current.
DON’T
- panic, lose your temper or yell at people.
Everyone is stressed - ignore warnings
- lay your anchor over other people’s anchors
- block the creek stopping others from
going in or out. - forget the mozzies or midgies will be at you
all the time, especially when the wind stops.
DOs & DON’Ts
FEATURE
DEBBIE
IMAGE COURTESY OF KERRYANNE WILKIE