Just two weeks to the Exmouth Race and Rally 2021
by Bernie Kaaks 22 Apr 2021 14:38 PDT
8 May 2021
Communications Briefing © Bernie Kaaks
A capacity crowd attended last Thursday's communication briefing, which was prefaced by a video presentation by Luke Parkinson, veteran of two Volvo Around the World races, two America's Cup campaigns and countless other achievements.
Luke spoke in practical terms about life jackets, personal EPIRBs, personal AIS beacons and the best way to take advantage of their capabilities. In the absence of having the man here in person, it was a beautifully tailored presentation for skippers and crew.
Following Luke's video, Deputy Race Officer Cameron Berg detailed the communication strategy for the Exmouth Race and Rally. The range of questions was a clear indication that competitors now have a much better understanding of how the communication network will operate during the trip to Exmouth.
Incident Management team trains for the job
The Club takes its responsibilities as race and rally organisers very seriously. Under the leadership of Ian Whitehead, representatives of the race organisation came together last Monday to familiarise themselves with their actions and responsibilities in the event of an incident. Risk management professional Warren Erasmus walked the group through the details of the Incident Management Manual before conducting some scenarios which the team might face.
Deputy Race Officer Cameron Berg detailed the communication arrangements in place. Steve Wade has volunteered to head up the Incident Management Team. His extensive experience in the area of risk management with the Fremantle Port Authority makes him an ideal choice. Steve has assembled a competent team of helpers whose sole purpose during the event is to manage any incident which might occur and keep communications open. We owe them a debt of thanks while fervently hoping that their services will not be required.
The frantic rush begins
Several yachts have scheduled their qualifying voyage for this weekend. In addition, some skippers are finding that their "to do" list still has an uncomfortably long string of items which have yet to be ticked off. Although it all seems a bit much at times, there are sound reasons for all safety equipment required for this race and most skippers now appreciate that the safety regulations are there for the protection of themselves, their crew and their yacht. Please assist Thor by completing your entry requirements as soon as possible.
Exmouth Game Fishing Club
As sailors will quickly discover after their arrival in Exmouth, the Game Fishing mob know how to have fun. While there is no formal function at the Club, they ask interested sailors who wish to dine there (they are open from 5:00 to 8:00pm on Thursday to Sunday) to book as soon as possible since they are limited to 60 persons per night. To book, contact 0439 470 711 or email .
Mobile phone coverage in Exmouth
Exmouth has limited mobile phone coverage. Telstra mobiles work in most locations and Optus has a service, but does not cover the airport. Our advice is that no other network has mobile phone coverage in Exmouth. Check your provider if you are unsure.!
Activity program
Thursday 6th May - Farewell Cocktail Party and Skippers Briefing, sponsored by Club Marine
6:30pm in the FSC Wardroom (Level 1) at FSC—this event is included in the event entry fee for all skippers and crew—other guests are welcome at a cost of $15.00 each.
Each boat's race pack and Yellowbrick tracker will be distributed at this briefing so attendance by minimum TWO representatives from each boat is mandatory.
Incentive! Gage Roads Brew Co are holding a beer tasting....
Saturday 8th May - Farewell Breakfast, sponsored by Boating Hardware
7:30am-9.30am in the FSC Wardroom followed by a safety and weather briefing for skippers and crew.
Hot buffet breakfast is at a cost of only $10pp, proudly sponsored by Boating Hardware.
To register your attendance, please email (payment can be made on the day).
Tuesday 11th May - Race Management Team in Exmouth from today
For any assistance, please contact CEO Karen Baldwin on 0411 557 280 or Race Officer Bernie Kaaks on 0412 532 211 or 0492 898 902.
Boats will enjoy a drink on arrival, courtesy Gage Roads Brew Co and will then be escorted to their allocated berth by the finish team—our thanks to David Davenport for allowing us to use his RIB for this duty!
Once ashore, our Finish Team will help you tuck into a traditional sausage sizzle.
Wednesday 12th May - Large number of boats expected to finish today
FSC Finish Team will be on hand at the Marina and Exmouth Game Fishing Club.
Both IGA stores have fresh produce to help with re-stocking your boats.
Thursday 13th May - a free day to explore Exmouth
Exmouth Shire Council has donated a number of free tickets so why not visit the Ningaloo Centre and Aquarium?
5:30pm A special night at the Whalebone Brewery. Beer, pizza and entertainment galore. The venue is limited to 280 people so contact Karen on your arrival to register your attendance to make sure you don't miss out.
Friday 14th May
7:00am Bus transfers for those who have booked Whale Shark Swimming. There are two groups going out today. If interested, contact Thor or Karis at FSC. A special price of $350 has been negotiated subject to availability. Don't wait until you get there or you will miss out!
Yardie Creek Eco Boat tours are also available at a specially discounted rate for FSC members of just $35. Please book with Yardie Creek Eco Tours direct.
Friday Night: Time for a breather.
Casual dinner option at the Exmouth Game Fishing Club (but you need to book) or try the Froth Brewery in the town centre. The Potshot Hotel also has a great bistro style menu.
Saturday 15th May - Exmouth Community Fun Event
Please register with Karen to volunteer on this day with set-up and general assistance.
8:00am FSC volunteers need to be at Exmouth Yacht Club to help to set up.
12 noon Sausage sizzle lunch—bar opens.
2:30—3:30pm FSC yachts open for inspection and "meet and greet".
Saturday 15th May - Presentation Dinner at Exmouth Yacht Club
6:00pm Presentation Dinner at Exmouth Yacht Club
Please note: Seats are limited. Guests other than skippers and crew need to book ASAP.
Sunday 16th May - Recovery Breakfast
9:00—11:00am, back at the Exmouth Game Fishing Club.