Tidelines: Space race

Organiser Warwick Browne says the squeeze is now on to accommodate all the exhibitors seeking space at the revived IMTEC boat show at Princes Wharf. After its absence of three years due to redevelopment of the site, Browne is confident that the companies taking part in what is essentially a trade exhibition will appreciate the improved facilities. Special deals for exhibitors and their clients have been arranged with the Hilton Hotel. Show details on the IMTEC website.

Projects person

Yachting New Zealand has appointed Louise Andrews as communications and projects co-ordinator. An Aucklander with a marketing degree, Andrews has just returned from an OE stint that included a similar role with the big international investment bank Goldman Sachs. That job involved communicating with large numbers of people in varying locations. She believes the skills she developed there will be useful in strengthening Yachting New Zealand's regional liaison. She also plans to encourage use of Yachting NZ's website.

PWC legislation

Iowa is the latest state in the US to introduce tougher laws for the use of personal watercraft. The use of PWCs is prohibited from sunrise to sunset and drivers must be over 12 years unless accompanied by an adult. From next January 1, all PWC operators aged from 12 to 17, even if accompanied by an adult, will be unable to drive unless they have completed a watercraft safety course and carry a safety certificate.

Water-watch

The deadline for inclusion in the 2002-03 Harbour Events Calendar is the end of this month. Hans Swete, at the Auckland Regional Council Maritime Operations Centre, is co-ordinating the list and can advise on the timing of planned activity to ensure events don't clash. He can be reached on (09) 361 2405. This weekend's highlights include:

Saturday: Winter series (VCC) Women's winter series (PCC).

Sunday: Canterbury fully crewed series, Races 4 and 5 (RAYC); Helly Hansen winter series (PCC); Winter Race 6, 12.30 start (GHYC); Winter series (MYMBC).