RQYS MAINSHEET 2023

Marina Manager’s report

The volume of boats being lifted by the Travelift has not been impacted during this period as all staff have the appropriate qualifications to operate this machine, but we also have appreciated everyone’s understanding and patience during this period.. In 2022, power and water facilities were installed in this area, proving to be a great addition to our Members’ experience, being able to wash boats in their own space rather than having to block the ramps during busy periods. To have power at the boat allows for batteries to be maintained and the ability to complete small maintenance projects on their boats. Not having to tow boats from home to a busy public ramp is another benefit, increasing the amount of time members can use their boats. We currently have an extended waitlist for this popular area, so if you are looking for trailer boat storage on our hardstand, please contact the Marina Office and put your name on the list. From February this year, and in response to feedback, the eastern driveway by the Windsurfing Centre of Excellence was designated a no parking area to facilitate Members’ unimpeded transfer of their trailer-boats from the hardstand to the ramps off Flagship Drive. Extra parking for windsurfers was made available by the Regatta Camping area on the lawns. The lockers and garages are fully booked at the moment, however there is also a waitlist for these spaces if anyone is interested. We are looking at other possible storage solutions, so at least if you are on the waitlist we can let you know as soon as something becomes available. Storage sheds Trailer-boat hardstand

Marina security is another priority and, whilst we have a monitoring service in place and conduct dockwalks at least weekly, our liveaboard community provides us with excellent feedback and brings to our attention any concerns, issues and even suggestions on what is needed in our marina community. The boatyard has seen another very strong year, with an increase in vessels undertaking longer periods of time out of the water to complete large-scale works, compared to the previous few years. During the year, new tarmac was laid outside the eastern gate, improving access for both Members’ vehicles to the E–H row carpark as well as for crane and rigging trucks to the Boatyard. Boatyard

Kevin (or “Kevinyl” as he was often known) was a great asset to RQYS and over his time provided an outstanding experience for our Squadron Members at Canaipa. I am sure you all agree he made Canaipa the special “Down the Bay” property that we all appreciate. In March 2023, we welcomed Sean and Sheridan Poole as the new Canaipa Caretakers, who are enjoying their new home enormously and have settled into the role to continue to provide Members a friendly and welcoming visit to our beautiful facility.

Pending the training of new staff, we are anticipating to have Roodberg trailer “Rooby” back in action for catamarans and larger vessels by the beginning of February 2024. This has highlighted the need to ensure all boatyard and marina personnel are trained and competent in operating Rooby as soon as possible, to avoid delays and not negatively impact our ability to lift those vessels suited only for this particular equipment.

Canaipa

The ‘coldest pool in the known universe’ received an upgrade during the year, including a new coat of paint, and looks great. We’re told that the pool even feels “warmer” so must be the new paint! n

After 12 years of employment, caretaker Kevin Ball moved into retirement to enjoy his house in Tasmania and spend time boating and travelling with partner Sue.

Mainsheet 2023

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Royal Queensland Yacht Squadron Yearbook