Tidelines: Looking good

Boatbuilding apprenticeships have passed the 300 mark, a target the industry did not expect to reach for another two years. Boating Industry Training Organisation executive director Peter Busfield says the response of the industry to the skills shortage brought about by the increasing popularity of New Zealand-built boats has been fantastic. In 1991 there were 35 apprentices in training. Today there are 301.

Lisa on board

American-born sailor Lisa McDonald, now based at Hamble in Britain, has been named as skipper of Nautor's all-women second entry in the Volvo Ocean Race. Together with New Zealander Grant Dalton, Nautor's project head for the event, she is selecting her 11 crew for the race, which starts on September 23. McDonald sailed on EF Education in the last Whitbread and may call on some of her former crew.

Show audit

The International Federation of Boat Show Organisers voted at its annual meeting in Athens to adopt an audit system. The move comes after long-running dissatisfaction among show exhibitors and advertisers amid accusations that some show organisers use inflated attendance figures. The IFBSO has adapted a system successfully used by other show organisations.

WaterWatch

The Auckland Regional Council maritime unit has a reminder for boaters on the provision and use of lifejackets. Each pleasure craft must now carry an accessible and serviceable lifejacket suitable for each person on board. In addition, everyone on the craft must wear a lifejacket where tides, river flows, rough seas or adverse weather cause danger.

Activity on the water this weekend includes: Saturday, 1 pm Richmond fully crewed race (RYC); 1.30 pm Ponsonby women's series (PCC); Sunday, 11 am Logan winter series (PCC).

The free Boaties Book, published by the Auckland Yacht and Boating Association, will soon be reprinted.

Organisations, clubs or individuals planning activity on the Waitemata or Manukau Harbour and wanting to ensure it is listed should call Hans Swete on (09) 361 2405 or ENVIROLINE 0800 80 40 60.