BOATING COLUMN
GETTING READY FOR SUMMER
JOHN Down says he has seen a lot of changes on the Gold Coast waterways over the past two decades.
The number of vessels on the Coast, speed limits, barges and buoys ...
One thing he said never changed, however, was boat safety.
“I always go over everything to make sure my trailer and boat are up to scratch, for every trip,” he said.
“In the past 14 years, there’s a huge increase in numbers of boats on the water.
“But not only that, the speed limits change, sand moves around, barges and buoys are in different places – you have to have your wits about you.”
Mr Down said while it was important to keep up to speed with what’s happening on the water, being safe was equally important.
Unlike many, he uses his boat year round, but understands a thorough service is instrumental – especially if your boat has been stowed away during the colder months.
“The main things are to make sure the motor is serviced according to schedule,” the Paradise Point man said.
“The batteries are fully charged, and holding charge, make sure all mechanical systems are working – the steering, all the pumps – and the anchor system. It’s critical.
“Flush out old fuel, and oil, change filters, and make sure both are adequately stocked.”
He said there were different precautions to take depending on whether you were travelling out on open water, or up river.
“If you’re going out to sea, have current flares, an EPIRB registered with the authorities and safety gear including life jackets – it can get pretty mean out there.”
While the integrity of the boat was important, Nitro Marine sales manager Shaun Hose said one piece of equipment was nearly always overlooked.
“A lot of people forget the trailer,” he said.
“Thinking it’s OK, pull it out and put it in the water. But the trailer bearings, brakes, tyres, winch post, all that stuff, it can go wrong.
“Boaties need to make sure no components are corroded, lights are working and it’s well greased.
“Then of course a lot of people put their boats away and just don’t touch them, rig them up to put in the water, thinking they’re going to be as good as new. That’s not the case.
“You run the risk of getting stuck on the way there, or out in the water, and without proper maintenance, run the risk of doing more damage.”