MAKING WAVES

Trailerboat parking

The NIMBY attitude of some residents has sparked the release of Transport NSW's first discussion paper on boat-trailer parking. Woollahra and Canada Bay precincts were surveyed after complaints, but the fieldwork dispelled the myth that parking problems are caused by boat owners from outside the area. Manly and Warringah councils still expressed support for greater trailerboat policing powers. But not everyone can afford a garage, and leaving a boat parked beside a golf course or cemetery shouldn't upset anyone.

Ships ahoy

HMB Endeavour and James Craig look ready to tackle the world after joint maintenance at the Captain Cook dry dock on Garden Island. The Endeavour replica and the 1874 James Craig barque are preparing to take part in the Royal Australian Navy International Fleet Review in October. The week-long program will be preceded by a 10-day return voyage to Jervis Bay culminating in Endeavour leading a fleet of ships into Sydney Harbour. Public berths for the voyage are available from the Australian National Maritime Museum. See anmm.gov.au/ifr.

Take jackets off

Supervised paddlers and rowers can now go jacket-free in NSW under the supervision of an experienced and accredited coach, who must determine that the person not wearing a lifejacket has enough swimming ability, skill and fitness. But there is no exemption for paddlers on open waters, where a lifejacket is still mandatory.

Chinese whispers

Wondering what that big, white ship tied to Garden Island is all about? It's a friendly visit from China's largest search-and-rescue vessel, the Haixun 01, a 128.6-metre-long ship with space for 200 people and a range of 18,520 kilometres without refuelling. The ship's crew exchanged information with our rescue authorities and took part in joint coastal training exercises before sailing for Cairns for the Asia-Pacific Heads of Maritime Safety Agencies forum.

Free antifoul

You have to love winter, because it's then waterfront firms do their best to drum up business. In June and July, for example, Fergusons Boatshed Marina at The Spit is giving away free antifoul when you pay to get your boat slipped. You'll have to pay for the labour to apply it, but the antifoul is the top-notch international product for cruisers or yachts. Phone Ryan Short for bookings on 0432 123 101, info@ryanshortmarine.com.au.