Yamaha powers vital Shark Research

by Bob Carter on 4 Jun 2009
A dedicated team of researchers studying the migratory behaviour of sharks has selected Yamaha four stroke power for their primary research vessel. Operating on the environmentally sensitive Great Barrier Reef, the low emission qualities of the Yamaha F150 makes this outboard the perfect choice for the shark scientists.

In a joint program that involves the Australasian Natural History Unit, CSIRO Marine Research and Undersea Explorer, researchers are studying the movement patterns of sharks in the far northern area of the Great Barrier Reef.

Shark researcher and cinematographer Richard Fitzpatrick’s project involves the tagging and tracking of Grey Whalers, Whitetip Reef Sharks and Tiger Sharks in an effort to better understand their behaviour and ultimately to protect these species. Through over fishing, the shark population worldwide is declining.

The Yamaha powered research boat is principally used to capture and then tag sharks. The large Tiger capture technique involves attracting sharks to the side of the boat using bait. As the shark approaches, a tail clamp is applied to the shark’s tail using a 3m pole.

Once the shark is captured, it is secured alongside the research vessel to have a lightweight satellite tag fastened to the dorsal fin. The tracking pack comprises a satellite transmitter, long life batteries, aerial and saltwater switch. When the shark’s fin breaks out of the water, a unique identifying code is transmitted via satellite to a receiving station where the tag’s position is calculated. The research scientists in Australia receive the positions and plot the shark’s movements.

The longest transmission duration to date has been 14 months. The vast distances travelled by sharks has amazed researchers.

In selecting a Yamaha four stroke outboard to power the Osprey research boat, Richard Fitzpatrick said that the over-riding appeal of the Yamaha is that they just go when you need them to.

'When you are chasing a 4m Tiger Shark you definitely need a reliable motor,' Richard said. 'The reliability is a major safety factor in the high risk work we do, particularly in the remote areas of the far northern Great Barrier Reef and the Coral Sea.'

'The Yamaha four stroke is powerful, economical and beautifully quiet, all big plusses for our long days at sea.'

In support of the research work being undertaken, the process has been filmed and made into a documentary series for television.

Prior to specifying a Yamaha outboard for their work, the team undertook some research of their own on various outboard brands. They quickly discovered that tourism vessels and boats operated by Queensland National Parks are mostly Yamaha powered.

Brett Shorthouse, filmmaker on the research project, added that past personal experience also played a big part in the decision.

'We’ve been using Yamaha outboards for nearly ten years on various work boats,' Brett said.

'They have been subjected to a really hard life, enduring many months at sea in all kinds of weather, both inshore and offshore. The Yamaha engines have performed flawlessly. Moreover the back up support from Yamaha dealers has been first rate.'

Commenting on their support of the researchers, Yamaha’s National Sales and Marketing Manager Brett Hampson said that his company’s support of their work was a privilege.

'We’re delighted to be playing our part and assisting in this vital work,' Brett said. 'Yamaha fully supports any projects that help conserve and protect the marine environment. It’s extremely important to us and our customers.'

Yamaha outboards are available through an Australia-wide network of authorised Yamaha outboard dealers. All Yamaha 4-stroke outboards are supported with a full 4-year manufacturer’s warranty and all 2-stroke outboards are backed by a 3 year warranty – standard conditions apply

For further information on the shark documentary go to: http://digitaldimensions.com.au/Shark%20Coast.html