MAKING WAVES

Protecting seagrass

A total of 281 submissions were received for the recent DPI Issues Paper seeking the community's views on possible anchoring restrictions intended to protect seagrass in Manly Cove West and Quarantine Beach. Thankfully, boating access to North Harbour has been retained for recreational and safety purposes. Roads and Maritime Services has agreed to fund the placement of eight courtesy moorings at Manly Cove West and Quarantine Beach. The moorings are planned by August in locations determined in consultation with boating stakeholders. See dpi.nsw.gov.au/fisheries/habitat

/boating-practices.

Patrol power

RMS has taken delivery of two new patrol vessels for the Sydney region. The old seven-metre Vision catamaran patrol boats with twin Honda 150-horsepower engines were replaced with 7.2-metre Seatamer catamarans with twin Honda 175-horsepower motors at a combined cost of $473,500.

Runabout aground

We're not sure what the story is behind the five-metre to six-metre fibreglass runabout that was run up the rocks at South Head last weekend. Firmly wedged between rocks well inside the breaking reef, the boat had a rope lashed around a nearby rock, lifejackets strewn about the place and some kit above the high-water mark. RMS reminds boaters they are required to submit an incident report where an incident has resulted in death or injury, or damage in excess of $5000 to the vessel or other property.

West Harbour series

The inaugural 2013 West Harbour Winter Series is a new Sunday regatta for sailors living west of the Harbour Bridge. A combined event for the Balmain Sailing Club, Greenwich Flying Squadron, Drummoyne Sailing Club and other upper-harbour clubs, the new series has attracted 70 entries already. Racing is every second Sunday starting tomorrow (May 19). See balmainsailingclub.com.

Absolute luxury

Premier Marine at Rose Bay has added Absolute to its hand-picked portfolio of pleasure boats. The Italian Absolute yard builds motor yachts from 40 foot to 72 foot with a point of design difference. "Each bespoke Absolute power yacht is built to be a true reflection of her proud owner, as Absolute is focused on being special and standing out in a sea of sameness," Premier Marine brand manager Lee Poulson says. A new 55 Fly is already on order and expected to arrive in October.