The Island Project – dementia preventionWe recently attended a Men’s Shed gathering where the main presentation concerned this topic. It was the right demographic. From the Project home page: ‘Most of the risk for dementia is associated with ageing. However, international research has indicated that approximately a third of dementia cases may be effectively prevented if modifiable risk factors are addressed. It is never too late to tackle these risk factors, but it is particularly important from middle age onwards. The Wicking Dementia Centre is establishing a bold new initiative that has never been attempted before. We are seeking to reduce the incidence of dementia in a whole population – the population of Tasmania – and we need your help. If we can show that we …
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Sea-GalsJames Arkle from Huon Yacht Club writes: ‘One of the fun initiatives that we are starting this year is Sea-Gals. They are holding their first get together on Monday 18th October. I would like to say a very big “thank you” to Pam for organising this, I am sure that it will be both fun and informative. Here are all the details: Sea-Gals of the HYC group would like to invite women who enjoy boating and would like to socialise and meet other like-minded women, while learning new skills. You don’t need to be a member or own a boat! Getting to know other women connected to sailors in the club is a benefit for all …
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‘Going down another lane’ book reviewFrom the review of John Young’s autobiography in ‘Afloat’ magazine: ‘Over the past 85+ years Dr John Young (BA, MA Auckland, MA Oxford, PhD ANU), English-born actor, author, boat-builder, boxer, Pacific historian and voyager, conservationist, environmentalist, community developer, technical educator, and all-round social entrepreneur, has gone down a great many lanes, by-ways and highways. What makes this lengthy but lively life-story of particular interest to readers of Afloat is its connecting theme: building, sailing, and messing about in boats, especially wooden ones.’What they missed was ‘and genuine good bloke’. For more read https://www.afloat.com.au/2021/09/10/book-review-going-down-another-lane/If you don’t already have a …
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Migrating our websiteThe LBT website is hosted by Google Classic Sites, which is scheduled to disappear in December. A recent failed attempt to edit the Nancy homepage indicates that Google have already started to shut things down – see screen grab below. We have been working towards migrating our web pages to WordPress (don’t worry, it is just another internet thingy), as shown by the second screen grab. The fact that you are reading this post indicates that Google Classic Sites is still operating – mostly. If it stops early there may be a mad scramble.
Posted Oct 3, 2021, 5:48 AM by Posts Editor
Nancy Fanciers meeting Monday 4th Oct 5pmThere are a number of issues to be considered: Nancy’s role in Seniors Week (starting Monday 11th); getting Nancy out of the water for major maintenance at the beginning of November; how to get that work done (volunteers, subcontracting); how to operate Nancy in the coming summer season (volunteers, leasing). Get along, hear about the different proposals, and have your say.
Posted Oct 3, 2021, 5:52 AM by Posts Editor
Rowing NewsJane Johnson writes:Maintenance – Freyja is back on the river and in new-found glory was taken down to Dover for an adventurous row/exploration, timed well with some picture-book spring weather. Imagine is undergoing major maintenance work with repairs to the gunnels and top strake, sanding, repainting and more. The more hands helping will result in a faster return to the river. Wednesdays is workshop day from 10 am, but other times can be arranged. Many hands make light work – and a team result is always more rewarding …contact Dennis on 0428 364 178. Billie is also about to show off a carved figurehead – clay model as shown. Carvers are enjoying the challenges of working with a detachable …
Posted Oct 3, 2021, 4:58 AM by Posts Editor
Family fun day Sunday October 31stCome along and enjoy: Paul Frost’s model boats (see pics below); sausage Sizzle and salad; scones jam and cream; music with Terry Mead and David Pittaway; mounting of new figure head for Freya carved by Mary Lou Conway; come and try rowing.Time: 11am to 2.30pm.
Posted Oct 3, 2021, 5:53 AM by Posts Editor
Monday night BBQLast Monday of the month has come around again (can you believe it?), so it is time to oil the hotplate and check the gas bottle. Weather looks kind, and there should be plenty of twilight. See you at the Shed after 6pm. Pic from Wikimedia
Posted Oct 2, 2021, 3:40 PM by Posts Editor
Huon Yacht Club Open Day Saturday October 2ndJames Arkle (the commodore) has sent the program.11.30 preparations start in the clubhouse. If you could bring along a plate of finger food that would be great. Small cakes, muffins, sandwiches and things like that would be ideal. Huon Aquaculture are very kindly donating some smoked salmon and Suzannah and her helpers are converting that into posh sarnies! 12.00 the fleet gathers at the Mid River Buoy 12.30 the sail past 12.45 live music from Rocketscience with Keys McHarg 1.30 the official season opening and prize draw at the clubhouse. (We are holding a raffle to raise funds to buy a new club BBQ for our Thursday night sausage sizzles.) 1.45 Commodore’s …
Posted Sep 26, 2021, 5:52 AM by Posts Editor
Late invitation: Men’s Shed gathering 30th SeptWe are looking for one more delegate to send to this meeting at Margate. Details attached: https://tinyurl.com/mhpbskue . Despite the name it is not gender specific: there are plenty of ‘Community Sheds’ like ours who are part of the association. If you are interested please send a message to sec@lbt.org.au.
Posted Sep 19, 2021, 3:56 PM by Posts Editor
Nancy: vote of thanks to Judy KrynenNancy is in many ways our flagship, our ‘whole of community boat’, taking numerous excursion groups around the Egg Islands, transporting dignitaries to events and school children on expeditions, participating in festivals and regattas, used for scattering ashes in the river and the list goes on. If there was once ‘A little engine that could’, Nancy is ‘the little boat that can’. To see the joy on an eight year old’s face as they take the wheel on Nancy and realise that yes, they really are steering the boat, is the sort of reason many of us belong to the Living Boat Trust. Plans for Nancy were discussed at the AGM, and minutes from a recent meeting of the …
Posted Sep 19, 2021, 2:58 PM by Posts Editor
New committee for the LBTAs advertised the AGM was held at the Bowls Club on Saturday afternoon. The old committee was dismissed and a new one elected. It consists of: President: Peter Laidlaw; Treasurer: Rod Macfarlan; Secretary: Richard Forster; General Members: Jane Johnson; Endra O’May; Michelle Crawford; Mike Hewitt; Jean-Pierre Scheerlinck; Martin Riddle; Andrew Ritchie, David Pittaway. Tom Stevens did not stand this time around, and we would like to take this opportunity to thank him for his contribution to the LBT. Amongst other things Tom has organised a very comprehensive ‘Induction and Introduction’ for new members to the LBT (https://tinyurl.com/zdryfwpf), did our testing and tagging of electrical equipment and provided the mothership for Tawe Nunnugah. We would remind …
Posted Sep 18, 2021, 2:46 PM by Posts Editor
KnotsOne of the great things about the LBT is the opportunity to learn new stuff, a very good example being the decorative knots class being conducted by Barbara Frankel. Come along and join it on 4.30pm on Monday afternoons. As a tribute to Barbara’s teaching skills, see the mat tied by somebody who failed scissors at kindergarten: https://tinyurl.com/zj4f2h72. It’s the Monkey Fist this week: see https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/d/dd/Knot_Monkey_Fist.jpg.
Posted Sep 19, 2021, 3:09 PM by Posts Editor
Richard Flanagan at Cygnet Town Hall Sept 18 11amRichard has been garnering a fair bit of attention with his book about the salmon industry ‘Toxic’ . As users of the sea around south east Tasmania we at the Living Boat Trust also have an interest in this industry – some of us work for them. A public meeting at Cygnet called ‘Stop the salmon sea grab’ will be addressed by Richard, Bob Brown and others: see the flyer below for details: https://tinyurl.com/3nekdeed
Posted Sep 12, 2021, 2:54 PM by Posts Editor
Huon Yacht Club Working Bee 25th SeptemberIf you want to help out our neighbours and friends down at Shipwrights Point show up down at the club rooms at 11am.
Posted Sep 12, 2021, 2:27 PM by Posts Editor
AGM this coming Saturday (18th) 3pmIn the past we have held these meetings in the evening and kept them fairly brief with a social afterwards. The afternoon start will give us more time to discuss the issues that will be in front of the new committee in the coming year. In particular these will include changes to the subscription rate;a sailing safety policy; future planning for the shed, with a particular emphasis on energy usage;what’s happening with Nancy; and there may be more. Come along, hear all about it, and have your say. All the documents for the meeting, including committee nominations, discussion papers etc, can be found at https://tinyurl.com/36753fnv.
Posted Sep 12, 2021, 2:52 PM by Posts Editor
New Franklin township mapSupplied by David Moore: thanks David. Get the full size version at https://tinyurl.com/84wv9vrw.
Posted Sep 9, 2021, 5:56 AM by Posts Editor
Thank you to our sponsorsOur raffle at the Saturday night event could not have gone ahead without the great prizes that were donated. Thank you to:shop@Franklin – $50 voucherWalton House Bed and Breakfast – accommodationWooden Boat Centre – x3 mystery bagsFranklin Accommodation – 2 nights accommodationthe LBT Nancy Fanciers and caterers – catered cruise on NancyFranklin Marine – bucket of fishing gearFrank’s Cider – $50 voucher and drinks.
Posted Sep 12, 2021, 2:37 AM by Posts Editor
Save the bittern!It has its head stuck in a block of wood (see pic below). Fortunately it has Mary-Lou Conway on hand to help it emerge, after which it will be available to be mounted on Freyja. As required. Silly people think that the next apocalypse will be caused by a plague or climate change or zombies. We at the LBT know that it will be when a decision has to be made about what colour to paint a gunwhale – or whether or not boats should have figureheads. The wood carvers saw this coming and have deftly dodged by making this bird demountable.
Posted Sep 5, 2021, 3:53 PM by Posts Editor
‘Playback’: yet another great LBT eventOn Sunday morning, after an epic cleanup, the only evidence of what had been a special night was this soon to be erased blackboard (pic below). It was a reminder of all the other great events and activities that have come and gone over the past year: who remembers the Maritime Trail, the Open Day, the Lake Pedder Raid, Tawe Nunnugah, Swiftsure Regatta, the excursion with the Wooden Boat Guild, long tables on the lawn on summer Monday evenings, and the list goes on and on. What a busy little organisation!All of which is not to diminish this particular evening. For nearly everybody watching ‘Playback Theatre’ was something very new, and we were not disappointed. The ability of the …
Posted Sep 5, 2021, 3:29 PM by Posts Editor
Nancy Fanciers Meeting tonight (Sept 6) 5pmThe recent inspection of Nancy down at the slip revealed a number of problems: paint getting shabby, sheathing coming away below the waterline, some rot in the woodwork etc. Come along to this meeting at the Shed to plan some maintenance.
Posted Sep 5, 2021, 5:12 PM by Posts Editor
Committee meeting coming up Sept 9thNote date: not as previously reported on the 16th. An agenda is being compiled at https://tinyurl.com/8w2zr6nc. See the minutes for the August meeting at https://tinyurl.com/bt7u55dh. This is the last meeting for this committee. Get your nomination in for the new one, to be elected at the AGM Saturday September 18 soon!
Posted Sep 5, 2021, 7:11 PM by Posts Editor
Huon Yacht Club season opening day Oct 2ndHere is a chance to get on the water in warmer weather: they are keen for us to be involved. Good social event too – see flyer below: https://tinyurl.com/3dns5xs2.
Posted Sep 1, 2021, 6:12 PM by Posts Editor
Wilson’s Boat YardThe Wooden Boat Festival have just released a video about this yard (at Cygnet) which is well worth viewing – see https://youtu.be/slRdaS3Zj4c.
Posted Aug 30, 2021, 4:43 PM by Posts Editor
Please get your committee nominations inThe LBT constitution tells us that nominations ‘shall be delivered to the public officer of the Association at least 10 days before the date fixed for the holding of the annual general meeting’.Put yours in the orange letter box outside the Shed this week and the public officer will get it on time. There are blank nomination forms in the Shed, or download one from https://tinyurl.com/t6bj25ey.
Posted Aug 30, 2021, 4:37 PM by Posts Editor
Barbeque nightYes, it is the last Monday of the month and so we get the opportunity to show off our culinary skills down at the Shed. Come with something for the griddle and something to share by around 6.30pm. We are reminded that Long John Silver’s nickname was Barbeque and wonder what he would have brought along from the galley: presumably lamb cutlets would have been a rarity aboard ship. Pic by Wyeth from Wikimedia
Posted Aug 29, 2021, 2:08 PM by Posts Editor
Knotting course recommencing 13th SeptBarbara Frankel writes: The Decorative Knotting Course will recommence in September as follows: Monday 13 Sept 4:30 – 6 pm – Recap and coaster/place mat; Monday 20 Sept 4:30 – 6 pm – Monkey Fist key ring; Monday 27 Sept 4:30 – 6 pm – Project of choice. Further sessions can be negotiated around availability. Materials and tools supplied but feel free to bring along anything you want to work with. If you have a fid or Swedish fid bring it along! Small fee for new cord/rope or accessories if used (recycled rope – no charge). Any questions? Email Barbara.Frankel@internode.on.net
Posted Aug 29, 2021, 1:32 AM by Posts Editor
Two proposed changes to the ConstitutionSee attached document: https://tinyurl.com/dzh7775u. The first of these changes recognises the reality that we don’t do much business with cheques anymore. The second is intended to simplify boat usage: the previously separate fee is incorporated in the membership subscription of local members. If you have views on these changes which you wish to share email them to the secretary (sec@lbt.org.au) or come to the AGM.
Posted Aug 28, 2021, 8:57 PM by Posts Editor
One week to Playback Theatre Event, Sat 4th, Palais TheatreDoors, along with the bar, will open at 5.30pm. There will be some entertainment starting at the same time. We all need to be in our seats before 6.30 (SHARP) for the Playback Theatre group. Organisation for this event is going ahead at a great rate: menus mulled over, food and drink stockpiled, apples coming in from the orchardists (Peter Ford), musical instruments tuned, equipment checked, audio visuals compiled, volunteers briefed, actors rehearsed etc, etc. And tickets are selling fast from https://tinyurl.com/38jatwrp or Endra O’May: 0412 168552. Get yours.
Posted Aug 29, 2021, 2:26 PM by Posts Editor
Do you know ‘Royal’?Colin Grazules writes:’The story that has been passed down with the boat is that ROYAL was built by Peter Locke sometime in the late 20’s. Named in honour of a Royal visit for a South Australian cray fisherman by the name of Prengal. Built of 3/4 inch NZ Kauri ROYAL is 28 LOD 10 Foot Beam. 3 foot draft. 6 feet with plate down. ROYAL was said to launched without a motor. About 10 years ago ROYAL was discovered under a tarp on the Tasmanian fishing village of Dover and taken to Cygnet where a group including the boat builder Lindsay Wood carried out complete rebuild of the boat over 7 year’s…. A number of Couta …
Posted Aug 28, 2021, 6:18 PM by Posts Editor
Only 2 weeks to Playback Theatre event: September 4Come along to this fundraising event at the Palais and help support your LBT. It is a case of not only but also: with Playback Theatre, Steve and Marjorie Gadd, and Terry Mead and Rocket Science on the bill, AND a curry dinner provided it is the sort of bargain you just cannot pass up. We’ve also been combing through the archives to put together a slide/video show of LBT history for the night. See the pictures of the Shed going up as a taster: https://youtu.be/7p0NmM4hojI . Buy your ticket(s) at https://tinyurl.com/38jatwrp .For more about Playback Theatre (what is it??) see https://youtu.be/ONSTuBO1494
Posted Aug 28, 2021, 6:31 PM by Posts Editor
More from Jim Stockton: solar boat designJim has not only been writing whilst in lockdown in Melbourne: he has been doing his sums. See the results in the document attached https://tinyurl.com/awmrmvha. There is an example of an electric boat with batteries charged from the sun at South Franklin: Peter Shimeld’s converted couta boat – see pic below. Pete is very pleased with the way it goes. Pic from Brian Marriot
Posted Aug 22, 2021, 2:04 PM by Posts Editor
Farewell to Graham WrightGraham’s friends and former colleagues gathered at the Shed on Friday for a wake and to scatter his ashes from Nancy. Thanks to David Coldrick for organising this event. Steve Dunn, Graham’s best friend, was kind enough to share his eulogy (https://tinyurl.com/etps9hjv), and some photos from the past. See below.
Posted Aug 22, 2021, 3:24 PM by Posts Editor
Come and be part of the ‘On the Water Program’One of the best things the LBT does is get out on the water with local schoolchildren rowing the Grebes. For many of these children it is their first time in a boat, and a big adventure, and for all of them it is a lot of fun. To make our program work we need about a dozen volunteers. Please consider, and then enter your name through the form below (https://tinyurl.com/4m6cye2s). Pic from Mark Adams
Posted Aug 22, 2021, 2:06 PM by Posts Editor
That special buttonFrom David Moore: see below.
Posted Aug 16, 2021, 6:07 PM by Posts Editor
Nominate for the LBT CommitteeA new committee for the LBT will be elected at the AGM on September 18th. Please consider nominating using the form attached: https://tinyurl.com/t6bj25ey. There will be paper copies at the Shed shortly. All committees needs a periodic infusion of new ideas, new expertise and new enthusiasm. The Trust is in a stable financial position, the membership is actively and enthusiastically involved, and there are several experienced committee members who will be renominating. This should not be a ‘hardship posting’. New committee members should be able to quickly get down to the task of making the LBT a better place.
Posted Aug 15, 2021, 3:34 PM by Posts Editor
Kate is back!Great news for the Monday night diners. After a successful trip to Sydney and having weathered a fortnight isolating at home Kate Hoorweg is ready to rattle the pots and pans in the LBT kitchen. We are all looking forward to that.
Posted Aug 15, 2021, 4:02 AM by Posts Editor
Decorative knotting classes will recommence soon!We’d like to get some feedback on what works best for the majority. If you are interested, please email Barbara.Frankel@internode.on.net with your responses to the following questions:When would you like to recommence classes (August or later in the year)?Is Monday the best time or is there another time that works better?What projects would you like to work on? (refer to flyer attached*)Would a 4.30pm start be ok? *please note there may be a small fee to cover materials for some projects.Answers will help to plan the classes and organise materials. If you have questions please add them to your responses to the above. PS Have a look behind the …
Posted Aug 14, 2021, 10:38 PM by Posts Editor
Why I like lockdownsThe latest tale from Jim Stockton in Melbourne is included below: https://tinyurl.com/u9ucz6sr
Posted Aug 14, 2021, 7:32 PM by Posts Editor
Notice of Annual General MeetingThe Living Boat Trust AGM will be held at 3pm, Saturday September 18th, at the Franklin Bowls Club, 3395 Huon Hwy, opposite the Palais Theatre. Relevant documents can be found on the website (Resources => 2021 AGM Documents, shortcut https://tinyurl.com/yvf3b42m), including a committee nomination form and agenda. Other documents will be put there shortly. An important part of this meeting will be to decide on membership fees for the future. More details to follow. For those who want to kick on afterwards the Folk Club will be in full voice in the Palais across the road that night.
Posted Aug 14, 2021, 5:03 AM by Posts Editor
Seeking coordinator for On the Water programOne of the many good things LBT has done over the years is to get the local kids out on the water learning about boats with the ‘On the Water’ program. Good for them and good for us and a lot of fun. A number of us have taken the lead role in organising this program over the years, and we need somebody to step up for 2021. There is a description of the current program at http://bit.ly/2yfwE9i and there are lots of resources (see https://tinyurl.com/y757mebx), but these should not be seen as prescriptive: it may be time to explore an entirely different direction. If you are interested please contact the secretary: sec@lbt …
Posted Aug 13, 2021, 3:29 PM by Posts Editor
Have EVEN MORE FUN at the LBT fundraiser nightJoin the team who are running the show on Saturday evening, September 4th at the Palais Theatre. Enter your name and contact through the form below (https://tinyurl.com/2yekx4ud), or contact Endra O’May directly on 0412 168552. Pic from https://hobartplayback.org.au
Posted Aug 11, 2021, 5:53 PM by Posts Editor
Wake for Graham Wright Friday 20th AugustFor those who haven’t heard, LBT stalwart Graham Wright has passed away. Graham friends tell us they are organising an event on ‘Friday the 20th from around noon at the LBT. Food and grog BYO. The Nancy – which Graham did a lot of work on – with a driver will be available. It can take 8 passengers, and if it’s not windy, we can scatter Graham’s ashes on the water. No plan B atm, but we’ll think of something.’ More details will be provided as they arrive. If you have pictures, videos or other memorabilia concerning Graham that you want to share please send it in or bring it along. Pic of Graham doing electrical work on …
Posted Aug 15, 2021, 3:17 PM by Posts Editor
What is Playback Theatre?A number of people have asked what the main event (Playback Theatre) for our fundraising event on Saturday night September 4th at the Palais actually is. What happens at a Playback performance? Here is a description from the Hobart group.‘Playback is story telling. In a playback performance, a skilled facilitator gathers ideas, perspectives and stories from different voices in the room giving life to the unique experiences of the group in a safe space. Moments and stories are shared as actors bring the stories to life with music, artistic shape and insight. Each audience member’s recollection of a moment or experience from their own lives serves as a catalyst for a compelling dramatic performance. These spontaneous true stories …
Posted Aug 15, 2021, 3:47 PM by Posts Editor
Covid TalesLast year when we in Tasmania were all confined to quarters many of our members got busy and sent us stories of their doings, all of them true we are sure, to be published in this column for our general entertainment and education. Those who are interstate on the eastern seaboard are going through the same thing, and Jim Stockton from Melbourne has revived the story telling tradition. Attached are a couple of his latest: ‘Easily Underestimated’ (https://tinyurl.com/yd7utvfy) and ‘LBT Candidate’ (https://tinyurl.com/bwk7ea4c). Pic below is from the second.
Posted Aug 8, 2021, 5:48 AM by Posts Editor
Country StyleGet the August edition of Country Style for an article about the LBT by Michelle Crawford illustrated with some really nice pictures (see below). Thanks Michelle!
Posted Aug 8, 2021, 5:49 AM by Posts Editor
LBT Committee Meeting Thursday 12th AugustThere is an agenda being compiled at https://tinyurl.com/h7s3tr8j . See the draft minutes for the July meeting at https://tinyurl.com/rjnekjwn.
Posted Aug 8, 2021, 4:54 AM by Posts Editor
Monday night pot luck dinner (8th August)Kate’s in quarantine (well, maybe only isolation, but we like the alliteration), so we decided to spread the load – to everybody. You know the drill: bring something for the barby and something to share. Get there around 6.30. Weather should be better than that experienced by LBT member Zac Forster at a BBQ christening on Bird Island (off South Georgia Island).
Posted Aug 8, 2021, 4:45 AM by Posts Editor
When (not “if”) the Cartela sinksIf you enjoy a provocation (and some fruity language), or need to get the pulse going with a dose of indignation head on over to https://thehuontruth.blogspot.com/2021/08/when-not-if-cartela-sinks.html?zx=a852e3896e237e65 .
Posted Aug 6, 2021, 3:39 PM by Posts Editor
Jim’s Lockdown book review – The Dinghy Cruising CompanionTrapped by Covid Lockdowns, LBT member Jim engaged his mind in creative activities such as mastering splicing , reading and a book review!Book review: The dinghy cruising companion by Roger BarnesPublished in 2004 by Allard Coles Nautical, BloomsburyBarnes’s opening sentence is, “My aim in this book is to encourage you to use a small open boat to explore local and more distant waters.” He succeeds.The eleven sections range from discussions on finding a boat to “intimate underwear” (page 225). Scattered through the book are short stories on trips he has made, the merits of some of the dinghies that are better suited to cruising and mistakes he has made, such as ending up in a Special …
Posted Aug 2, 2021, 2:36 PM by Posts Editor
LBT Playback Theatre 4th September!A fun evening of improv theatre and music to raise funds for the Living Boat Trust. WHEN: Saturday 4th September; WHERE: Palais Theatre; COST: $25 per person. About this event. The LBT is pleased to present an evening of music, story telling and feasting featuring Playback Theatre , an improv theatre group from Hobart. Audience members tell stories from their lives and then watch them re-enacted on stage. It is raw, riveting and lots of fun. Later in the night you can kick up your heels with music from Steve and Marjorie Gadd and Terry Mead and Rocket Science. Tickets include supper and drinks will be available from the bar. Fun prizes and raffles throughout the night. Funds raised on …
Posted Aug 8, 2021, 3:44 PM by Posts Editor
Nancy Given the Slip!Under the care of the Two Brians, Andy and Mark, the Nancy is now slipped and the freshen up, survey and photogramatic recording are all scheduled for this week. Volunteers to assist are always welcome.Two Brians, an Andy and the Nancy!
Posted Aug 1, 2021, 2:51 AM by Posts Editor
Australian Wooden Boat Festival – new newsletterJust out from the Australian Wooden Boat Festival crew is a new newsletter with an update to Festival plans and and a link to the second episode in their BOAT FOLK video series; Episode 2 – SAONA Australian Wooden Boat Festival Newsletter BOAT FOLK video series; Episode 2 – SAONA
Posted Jul 28, 2021, 4:02 PM by Posts Editor
Slipping Nancy – UpdateJust in from Brian Marriott; after discussion with Brian Pain and Stuart Mears (Slipmaster), the aim is to be ready to slip Nancy at 09:00. on the 1st August.This means Nancy will be leaving Franklin at 07:00.if you intend to volunteer please be available at the slip from 10:00 so we can give her the initial scrub-down before any of the growths dry off.The HYC slip is beside the Huon Aquaculture east most buildings and is accessed from the unsealed road beside those buildings.
Posted Jul 28, 2021, 3:58 PM by Posts Editor
News Items! Nancy, BBQ, Cabaret and the LBT AGM 2021NancyNancy is to be slipped on the 1st August – a crew has been assembled to deliver her to the Huon Yacht Club slip , but helping hands to scrub, paint and provide tlc will be welcome.BBQ 2nd August bring something for yourself and something to share – also the news is that Kate will have to isolate until the 13th Aug. Something to discuss!Cabaret @ Palais, Endra and Michelle are planning a fundraiser for the LBT at the Palais coming up on the 4th of September , it’s a Saturday night – keep that date free!! Lots of fun , music! A cabaret ya !!!The LBT AGM2021The AGM is scheduled or the 18th Sept – a time and location TBA, but …
Posted Aug 2, 2021, 2:07 PM by Posts Editor
The Lost was Found, Returned and Secured!Sunday afternoon, a cold wind was blowing yet the phones were running hot. Reports of a runaway vessel on the Huon, LBT members were rallied remotely and a crew assembled by the roadside. Out on the river a yacht shot past under power, dinghy in tow. A pair of River dwellers whos habit of constant surveillance of river traffic had spotted the runaway from the hills and had leapt into motion. In minutes the missing vessel was found held safely by a snag and shortly brought upriver to Franklin. Now safely secured to the pontoons the vessel awaits the return of its Captain, and his offering no doubt of a salvage fee (beers I suspect). ( Thanks to Matt, JP and …
Posted Aug 2, 2021, 4:09 AM by Posts Editor
Splice the Mainbrace (a covid shutdown article from Jim)Jim Stockton is caught up in the joys of the Melbourne lockdown and has been using his down time productively – here is a tale redolent of hemp and stockholm tar… (or maybe not).For 25 years I used galvanised wire for the rigging that holds up my mast, replacing it periodically when it began to corrode. I’ve avoided stainless steel because there is often no warning that it is about to fail. Meanwhile, I’ve learnt that the Enterprize uses rope extensively in its standing rigging and that small boats were using hemp not that long ago, so is it feasible to use rope on a small boat? Hemp rope is still available, but expensive, are there other possibilities …
Posted Jul 25, 2021, 5:17 PM by Posts Editor
Vale Graham WrightSad news arrived this week regarding the passing of LBT regular, Graham Wright. Graham was a prolific contributor to the LBT Newsletter on Tuesday Group matters both as scribe and photographer. He is mentioned in some 90 contributions, much to his credit! As is the way of the photographer, there are many photos by him, not so many of him.The following eulogy was provided by Peter Hill:Sadly Graham , a stalwart of the LBT maintenance crew ,passed away at his home on Wednesday afternoon. A member of the LBT for many years Graham had a natural way with conversation around the workshop table touching on the various topics that old boys talk about . He was never lost for words …
Posted Jul 22, 2021, 11:49 PM by Posts Editor
Public’s views sought on Huon Highway corridor studyThe following call and opportunity to comment has been appearing in the local papers and Facebook – worth considering!”The Huon Highway Corridor Study, Kingston to Southport, is part of the Tasmanian Liberal Government’s delivery of safe and efficient transport links to the Huon Valley.Tasmanians are now invited to provide input into a corridor study which will inform an overarching 10-Year Strategic Action Plan for the Highway.The Huon Highway is a vital link to and from the Huon Valley, connecting major industry sectors such as tourism, forestry, aquaculture and agriculture with Hobart and beyond, and is the main route for people travelling to and from the region.This strategic review will investigate the likely future transport …
Posted Jul 22, 2021, 9:34 PM by Posts Editor
MAST correspondence re CapricorniaMAST has advised the LBT that they have considered Pip’s report on the capsize of Capricornia on the 7th June and that no further investigation is required. They do make a number of suggestions which we should follow, with a particular focus on cold water immersion awareness.A copy of that correspondence is below and is worth our consideration.
Posted Jul 17, 2021, 2:30 PM by Posts Editor
Rowing NewsProgress of the figureheadsProgress is continuing on the removable figureheads on the skiffs. Plus, the maintenance crew have been busy with new footstraps on trial in the bow seat of Freyja. Feedback is welcome – it should assist with rowing technique allowing rowers to lean back. Congratulations to Five Mile Crew who rowed in the Welsh five mile event over the weekend and recorded the fastest Open Women time.New footstraps
Posted Jul 16, 2021, 10:49 PM by Posts Editor
Tasmanian Land Conservancy (TLC) to the Egg Island Reserve (Sat 24th July and 28th Aug)The Tasmanian Land Conservancy (TLC) are proposing to make a visit to work on the Egg Islands Reserve and will be seeking the assitance of the LBT volunteers and vessels to make there way there and back on Sat 24th July and 28th Aug. For those not aware of the TLC the following information might be useful: “The TLC is a not-for-profit, apolitical, science and community-based organisation that raises funds from the public to protect irreplaceable sites and rare ecosystems by buying and managing private land in Tasmania. All donations of $2 or more are tax deductible. “About the Tasmanian Land ConservancyThe Tasmanian Land Conservancy (TLC) was established in 2001 with $50 in the bank and …
Posted Jul 16, 2021, 10:36 PM by Posts Editor
Rowing NewsThe Freyja figurehead takes shape in the covered verandah area. The cafe blinds were an initiative of the women on water rowing group that raised the funds to ensure a warm work and social area for all to enjoy. Imagine is next on the work list and will come out of the water after a skiff race this weekend.
Posted Jul 16, 2021, 9:00 PM by Posts Editor
Building a replica of the 1803 Schooner ‘Independence’As Endra and Richard continue their mainland adventures, they have taken time to send us titbits of their boaty discoveries. It seems that down at The Wharf, Tangara Drive, American River, on Kangaroo Island, SA, a volunteer team is building a full-size, seagoing replica of the first sailing vessel ever constructed in South Australia. The original 1803 Schooner ‘Independence’ was constructed by American sealers as their ship the the 100-ton Union had poor maneuverability in the smaller bays. The smaller Independance allowed the sealers to continue their work. Records show that after performing a number of voyages including delivering sealskins to Sydney the Independance was lost in waters off the Antipodes Island Group, southeast of New Zealand in …
Posted Jul 3, 2021, 2:46 AM by Posts Editor
Rowing News: Progress on Freya and more!Progress on Freyja as a bittern figurehead evolves. There is also a request that people who take Swiftsure out remove the Thole pins after use. On February 20 2022 the Woodbridge Water Festival organisers have requested a come and try St Ayles Skiff component with a view to a future community build. Updates will follow.
Posted Jun 30, 2021, 4:49 PM by Posts Editor
We all love a project!Indeed we do! What would our sheds and back yards be without such things! So here’s a splendid opportunity passed through to us by Paul Fisher ” regretfully up for sale is unfinished project professionally built be ship wright over 10 yrs Strip plank epoxy . Extremely well built to sail the world. Will come with 4 axle trailer. Lengths of Oregon for spars lead ballast Saab diesel Lots of bits call Paul on 0409015017 for more details “A picture of a sister ship is below and the state of the current work can be viewed >> here <<
Posted Jun 29, 2021, 3:00 AM by Posts Editor
ElandraA couple of notable launchings of new boats from the Wooden Boat School at the weekend: JP’s Elandra and a Percy. Pics from Endra O’May below.
Posted Jun 27, 2021, 5:52 AM by Posts Editor
Decorative knotsBarbara Frankel writes:A big thank you to all those who came along to the Decorative Knotting sessions this month. As there was sufficient interest she proposes to run some more sessions in August for new starters and continuing students. Watch out for further announcements closer to the time. In the meantime if anyone wants her to email some instructions or a list of online resources, please contact on Barbara.Frankel@internode.on.net’And thanks to Barbara from the LBT for running this course.Pic from https://www.animatedknots.com/monkeys-fist-knot
Posted Jun 27, 2021, 5:18 AM by Posts Editor
Film night ‘Scattered People’ Friday June 25 at 6pm at the PalaisThis is a Huon Refugee Support Group fundraiser. Entry by donation, bar and food for sale on the night. For more details see the flyer below, and the trailer at https://youtu.be/uXeQuiDcYaA.
Posted Jun 22, 2021, 3:56 PM by Posts Editor
New paint job for YukonYukon came home to Franklin at the weekend, dressed in her new livery. What do we think? See below.
Posted Jun 20, 2021, 7:00 AM by Posts Editor
Progress on Freyja’s maintenanceJane Johnson writes: ‘There is plenty of incentive to join in with skiff maintenance – Freyja Tim-tams. Paint stripping is 90% complete, to be followed by sanding and Cetol. There are many local woods emerging such as King Billy Pine on the thwarts and Celery-Top Pine on the gunnels. Antifoul, straps for footings as a trial and a Bittern figurehead are all challenges available for maintenance workers, and of course “Tea and Tim-Tams” is a much-needed activity. If you want to be a part of the crew, see Dennis at the shed on Wednesdays.’
Posted Jun 20, 2021, 6:54 AM by Posts Editor
An evening of Playback Theatre, September 4thSave the date of this LBT fund raising event in your diaries. Playback Theatre is ‘story telling through improvisation’. Music from Steve and Marjorie Gadd and friends, and from Terry Mead and Rocket Science. More details to come.
Posted Jun 20, 2021, 6:47 AM by Posts Editor
Responses to Capricornia capsizeA debrief session was held with the crew of Capricornia after the recent capsize to get their reactions and suggestions for improvement. Minutes are attached – see https://tinyurl.com/4bve6erh.Pip Stevenson wrote a report (as skipper) for MAST, also attached: https://tinyurl.com/2uu65htm
Posted Jun 20, 2021, 6:36 AM by Posts Editor
Satisfaction SurveyWe ran this survey a couple of months ago. Thanks to all who contributed their thoughts and views, which have already been used by the committee in considering such issues as fee structure. Two summaries of these surveys, one detailed and one much briefer are attached: see https://tinyurl.com/ys5fst3n and https://tinyurl.com/4e54jwfh. We will release all the responses, without identifying information, if there are no objections.
Posted Jun 20, 2021, 6:17 AM by Posts Editor
Stay Chatty at Huon Rowing Club, 7th JulyLisa Cooper writes: ‘The Huon Rowing Club will be hosting a Stay Chatty presentation at our Clubrooms from 5:30pm on wednesday 7th July. The presentation will be by the program’s Project Officer and goes for about 45 minutes. The session will be on mental health with a focus on resilience and helping out crewmates. If any of the rowers from the Living Boat Trust are interested they would be most welcome to join us.’
Posted Jun 20, 2021, 5:54 AM by Posts Editor
Pay your membership for 2021-22LBT memberships lapse at the end of June and renewal notices will be sent out shortly. Payment details will be included in these notices: they remain the same as for previous years. Note that if you have recently joined (since February) your payment for 2020-21 will cover you for the coming year.Membership fees for the Living Boat Trust are: $40 p.a. for an individual; $70 p.a. for a family. Use one of the following three methods for payment to the LBT: preferably by Electronic Funds Transfer (EFT) using your online bank account:BENDIGO BANK, HUONVILLE BRANCH, BSB 633-000, Account 149496275, LIVING BOAT TRUST; drop it into the office mailbox at the shed; cheque sent to …
Posted Jun 17, 2021, 8:23 PM by Posts Editor
A life on the ocean waves, 13-14 JulyFor those looking for entertainment for younger folk during the mid-year holidays John Wadsley from the Maritime Museum has inspiration. See the flyer below for details.
Posted Jun 17, 2021, 5:13 PM by Posts Editor
Treasurer’s Report 20th April – 19th MayHere is the report presented to the last committee meeting. Opening balance: $25,001; Closing balance: $24,920; Term deposit opening balance: $42,098; Term deposit closing balance: $42,098; Event account opening balance $200; Event account closing balance $144; Net position: -$137; All Accounts: $67,162. Our major expenses for the month were mooring services ($767), the last of the TN21 payments ($1,316), Taswater ($534), general materials (Franklin Marine $324) and our rent to the WBC ($261). Income came from Monday dinners ($905), the Maritime Trail payment ($500) and memberships ($180).Our current bank balance as of June 9, 2021 is $34,718 (plus $42,098 term deposit and $308 event account). That is, a total of $77 …
Posted Jun 17, 2021, 6:58 AM by Posts Editor
Technicolor TangleNew halyards were required for Capricornia after last Monday’s mishap, and we have taken the opportunity to colour code them. In future the spagetti junction at the base of the mast should be much more interesting (but also easier to untangle). Thanks to Matt Wardell for getting up in the bosun’s chair for us. Pip Stevenson has repurposed an existing rudder to fit the boat (the old one is likely on its way to the Channel), so she is ready to sail. Be a good idea not to bottle it before the fore and aft compartments are made properly watertight. Pics from Paul Frost
Posted Jun 15, 2021, 2:25 PM by Posts Editor
Summer DaysIf you need a break from Tasmania’s misty, atmospheric winter skies and long grey evenings you could do worse than join the Port Hacking Raid, at least in a virtual sense, by heading over to https://youtu.be/oTkwfL-55Dk. Gary McDonald spotted this one.
Posted Jun 14, 2021, 5:11 PM by Posts Editor
Decorative Knots class cancelled June 14Barbara Frankel sent a message to say that she has reacted to her Covid jab and is not well enough to take the class.
Posted Jun 13, 2021, 4:59 AM by Posts Editor
Shed full of tablesOn Saturday we started getting set up for the 60+ visitors from the Cruising Yacht Club having dinner on Sunday night. Every skerrick of space will be needed to fit them in. It was a reminder that the shed is a shared space: leave work out at your peril. See pic below.
Posted Jun 12, 2021, 4:15 PM by Posts Editor
Castle to Crane resultsLorrie Harrison writes:‘Just in, LBT’s Five Mile Crew has won the Median Trophy for the Irish leg of the Castle to Crane. As we all Row under very different conditions the organisers only award a median trophy to the crew in the middle of the field, this crew is the best representation of all the crews. 300 crews had entered the event coming from nations around the world, we have won the Median Trophy as a combination of all crews. A big win for the LBT.’ See pic from Lorrie below.
Posted Jun 12, 2021, 5:58 AM by Posts Editor
Work on FreyjaJane Johnson writes:‘There is progress on Freyja with many hands making light work. The Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday work groups aim to have the skiff back on the water in July. A bittern figurehead is also evolving to give Freyja a unique character. Extra hands are always welcome.’
Posted Jun 12, 2021, 1:47 AM by Posts Editor
DroguesJim Stockton writes:‘While Melbourne has been enjoying its lockdown, I’ve been experimenting with a type of sea anchor called the Jordan series drogue. It isn’t new, but I’ve only recently heard about it. I’ve written a story about it, and thought it might be of interest to your members.’Jim’s judgment is right: this is just the sort of thing we LBT’ers are interested in. See his story attached: https://tinyurl.com/3a5bzrzb.
Posted Jun 9, 2021, 4:20 AM by Posts Editor
If it bleeds it leadsLast Monday evening the local press made great play of a swamped Capricornia which, admittedly, did take some water aboard when the crew encountered a squall off Castle Forbes Bay. The press were less interested in the pic below, taken on the following morning after a spot of baling at Rocco Beach. Locals may have noticed that Capricornia was back in her berth by early Tuesday, towed up be Endra O’May’s very capable abalone boat (pics of that from John Snowdon). We will be making some improvements to Capricornia after this episode: stay tumed. PS. If you spy a rudder or a couple of paddles in the lower Huon estuary please let us know. Pic from Gary McDonald
Posted Jun 13, 2021, 5:28 AM by Posts Editor
Sailing Monday June 7thLooks like we will have some wind this afternoon: see you at the Shed at 1pm.
Posted Jun 6, 2021, 3:29 PM by Posts Editor
Castle to CraneLiving Boat Trust crews have been rowing in this international ‘Covid’ event, organised ‘cos we can’t make it to the British (and Irish) isles for the real thing. Lorrie Harrison writes: ‘Both crews have completed the Irish section of the Castle to Crane, rowing 5 miles (8.04km). Only the Welsh section in July is yet to be rowed. It’s a hard slog rowing against increased water flow caused by recent rains, but a delight to turn and row with the current. Castle Forbes Bay suffered a setback when an elastic broke, Karen rowed for both crews as Beata has injured her foot and is unable to row for a few weeks. Sadly neither crew were able to …
Posted Jun 6, 2021, 1:28 AM by Posts Editor
LBT Committee meeting June 10thThat’s this coming Thursday. There is an agenda being prepared at https://tinyurl.com/y35epxlo . Speak to your friendly committee member or send an email to sec@lbt.org.au if there is an issue you want raised. Draft minutes for the last meeting can be found at https://tinyurl.com/yxzlueub.
Posted Jun 5, 2021, 10:07 PM by Posts Editor
Funnies at Frank’s July 8th: Peter BernerHere is a likely looking event if you need to lock in your social calendar a month ahead. See flyer below for details.
Posted Jun 5, 2021, 6:49 PM by Posts Editor
Where’s Yukon?She’s on the hard at Prince of Wales Bay, getting prepared for her trip home to Denmark. Progress is being documented on the Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/yukontours/photos/. All that lovely green paint is coming off – see pic below. Pic from Endra O’May Pic from David Nash
Posted Jun 6, 2021, 2:39 PM by Posts Editor
Rowing news The Secret Passage St Ayles Skiff journey on June 4 was postponed due to the weather and a new date will be announced soon. It is essential to book on 0400 717 140, so 10 rowing seats can be filled for the 3-hour round-trip. Freyja is undergoing maintenance with members welcome to join in Tuesday, Wednesday or Thursday. A proposed figurehead for Freyja is a project for the Wednesday 10am woodcarvers…see photo, input is welcome.
Posted Jun 5, 2021, 6:18 PM by Posts Editor
Castle to Crane “Five Miles From Home” 2021Readers of this column will recall that 2 of our crews (the 5 Mile Crew and Castle Forbes) won their divisions of the first leg of this international event, and there is a nice pic of the former team in the Scottish Coastal Rowing Association report on the event – see https://scottishcoastalrowing.org/castle-to-crane-five-miles-from-home-2021/ They are at it again this coming weekend. Can they back up – average 5 knots or better over 8km? Phew! Pic from Scottish Coastal Rowing
Posted May 30, 2021, 6:20 PM by Posts Editor
Palais Movie 6th June: AlphaFrom the Palais: ‘It’s 20,000 years ago in Western Europe. Cro Magnons, the first “modern humans” have arrived and the tribe head off for their annual bison hunt. This is to be the coming of age of the chief’s son, but he is thrown off a cliff by a bison and abandoned by the tribe. Injured and alone, the boy has to find his way home.’For more see the Wikipedia page: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Alpha_(2018_film) Sunday 6 June at the Franklin Palais. Doors open 6.30pm. Admission $5. Film starts after 7.15pm but before 7.30pm. The bar will be operating, offering libations including stimulants, depressants and comfort drinks. Food may …
Posted May 30, 2021, 3:48 PM by Posts Editor
Cruising Yacht Club visiting Sunday June 13We are expecting the cruisers for their annual Queens Birthday weekend visit. Come down and meet them at the Shed.
Posted May 29, 2021, 5:06 PM by Posts Editor
Sailing Monday afternoon 31st MayJoin the happy crew at the Shed at 1pm to take Capricornia out. Looks like light conditions, so a good chance to learn or practice skills. A relatively recent addition to the boat are the running back stays, to protect the mast, something you don’t need on an ordinary Bermuda rigged boat. We need to get familiar with how to manage them.
Posted May 30, 2021, 4:53 AM by Posts Editor
‘Role your own’ Monday night dinner coming upEnd of the month can’t get any laster than the 31st, so tomorrow night’s dinner (31st May) is a ‘bring your own’ BBQ fair and something to share. Cracker night on Saturday reminded us that it is also bonfire season, so let’s set a match to some of the old wood about the place and toast our bums. From 6.30pm on. Pic from Wikimedia
Posted May 29, 2021, 3:56 PM by Posts Editor
Ropework (decorative knots) course: detailsBarbara Frankel writes: I will bring some instruction sheets and spare rope and accessories as well as whipping thread, a lighter, and a hot knife. Each session will be totally flexible and adapted to the interests of those present.Attendees can bring their own rope for weeks 2 and 3 (we will go over lengths required in week 1).Week 1 – 7 June: Introduction to rope and cord types; Resources for self-learning decorative ropework; Seizing ends of the different types for any project (whipping and melting); Lengths of rope needed for different projects; 4 bite mat/coaster. Week 2 – 14 June: Choice of:Ocean Plait Mat; 5 or 6 or 7 bite mats. Week 3 – 21 June: Monkey’s …
Posted May 23, 2021, 4:36 PM by Posts Editor
Decorative knots course is comingStarting 7th June, Monday evenings. More details to follow. Watch the newsletter. Pic from Animated Knots
Posted May 23, 2021, 4:18 PM by Posts Editor
Rowing NewsJane Johnson writes: Maintenance of St Ayles Skiffs Freyja has been nominated for the first winter-timed maintenance. Brown paint is being stripped, antifoul applied, cleaning and checking of components are top of the list of “jobs to do”. All members, especially rowers, are encouraged to join in with a new maintenance time on Wednesday afternoons. Dennis Muscovitch or Endra O’May are the people to contact if you are keen to join in, to help Freyja re-kindle her name “Nordic Goddess”. There is also talk of a figurehead along the lines of her origins from the rowing group “The Bitterns”. Friday row/sail explorations. These casual winter trips for rowers and sailors are planned on Fridays from 2pm …
Posted May 23, 2021, 3:00 PM by Posts Editor
Yukon NewsDavid and Ea write: ‘In June Yukon is on the slip for all over maintenance and a colour change. When you are traveling in the tropics it’s all about keeping the timber cooler, also the ambient temperature under deck. The dark heritage green colour with the gold stripe creates a higher temperature 2 to 3 degrees warmer than the traditional Danish fishing cutter light blue with the red stripe.We got a team of keen helpers together but can always use a strong extra hand. If you are interested get in touch.’ More items in their newsletter: JOIN YUKON’S WORLD VOYAGE 2021/2022; LAST CHANCE FOR CALM RIVER CRUISES ON THE YUKON; FUTURE CRUISES ON THE HUON RIVER …
Posted May 23, 2021, 5:30 AM by Posts Editor
Time running out for CartelaNot news for those of us in Franklin, but now the ABC is broadcasting it to the world – see their lengthy news item at https://tinyurl.com/2dbj6ydd
Posted May 22, 2021, 11:52 PM by Posts Editor
Winter sailingPip Stevenson writes:‘Winter sailing is re-commencing this Monday (24th May) at 1 p.m.. we will be taking either Capricornia or Monty. This was a very popular event during 2019 and we had a regular crew of about 10. So if you’re an old hand or would like to learn to sail come and join us on Monday at 1 pm. Please text Pip so we know what our numbers are.’This event is intended to train up novices and to help experienced sailors to attain skills and confidence to become skippers.
Posted May 21, 2021, 5:18 PM by Posts Editor
Weekend rowingPip Stevenson writes: ‘Open weekend rowing will commence this Saturday (22nd May) at 11 oclock. This session is expected to go for about an hour and a half and is intended particularly for people who can’t get to the LBT during the week. It is hoped that this will include some budding young rowers and attract new members. This event is being supported by Richard Dennis and Pip. We hope to see you there at 11am for 11:15 departure.’ Pic from Zainab Clarke
Posted May 21, 2021, 5:19 PM by Posts Editor
Treasurer’s Report 20 Mar 2021 to 19 April 2021This report is included in the minutes for the monthly committee meetings (https://tinyurl.com/49jfk2pa), but we thought that at this midway point of the year it was worth separating it out as a news item. Opening balance: $28,083; Closing balance: $25,001Term deposit opening balance: $42,098; Event account opening balance $96; Event account closing balance $200;Net position: -$2,978;All Accounts: $67,299. Our major expenses for the month were electrical gear for Nancy ($580), the thickneser repairs ($756), Capricornia’s mast ($337), Taswater ($534) and general materials (Mitre 10 $198, Franklin Marine $595). Income came from Monday dinners ($462), boat rental by Tas Land Conservancy ($200) and Maritime Trail sales ($207).Our bank …
Posted May 16, 2021, 3:48 PM by Posts Editor
Music on Monday NightKate’s back and Monday nights are great (as always). We had an extra boost this week with the visit of Velvet Phoenix to sing for us, mostly a capella. There were lots of Tasmanian west coast and Irish rebel songs with rousing choruses for the diners to join in with. Pics below from Nell Tyson.
Posted May 12, 2021, 4:13 PM by Posts Editor
The way we were: Franklin in the 1940’s and 50’s.David Moore recently posted to Youtube ‘various clips of Franklin put together by Mike Peters from the family archives of Phillip Gordon-Smith’. There is a LOT here (the apple evaporators in action, sports carnivals, racing boats on the river etc), but of general interest are the streetscapes, which emphasis how the town was transformed by the road widening. See https://youtu.be/D9SZ8ZrstOA, If you want a recent overflight of the town for comparison see https://youtu.be/O7WkppOoyfEDennis Muscovich has pointed out that if you hop onto Youtube and do a seach for ‘Tasmanian Archive Films’ or ‘TAHO Tasmania’ you will turn up many films from this period.
Posted May 10, 2021, 4:26 PM by Posts Editor
Induction to the LBTNew members to the LBT are welcomed with a fairly brief email outlining resources, opportunities and obligations. Tom Stevens has put together a much more thorough-going online induction which can be found at https://tinyurl.com/zdryfwpf . Have a go and send feedback. This is a much needed improvement to our procedures and we are grateful to Tom for tackling it.
Posted May 9, 2021, 3:48 PM by Posts Editor
Proposed change to membership and boat use feesMembers will recall that we ran a ‘satisfaction survey’ back in February. A suggestion that came out of that was that we change the current membership/boat use fee arrangement. The committee agreed that there could be some positive outcomes if this was done, encouraging the use of boats and simplifying life in general. Your treasurer, Rod Macfarlan, has put together the attached proposal: https://tinyurl.com/y6ewaj9c. See what you think. This will need to be endorsed at the Annual General Meeting later in the year so we have time to think about it.
Posted May 9, 2021, 3:33 PM by Posts Editor
Fwd: Brekend, Brekend: de verloting gaat door!Henk Brolsma forwarded us an email advertising the next Dutch Wooden Boat Festival at Den Helder being organised by old friend and member of the Living Boat Trust Bert van Baar. You can find out more on the website, translated into English thank goodness: https://dutchwoodenboatfestival.nl/about/ . Looks like it will be a lot of fun, but the date (September this year) seems optimistic for those who want to attend from Australia. We may just have to be online voyeurs. If and when a visit does become possible we can highly recommend the Den Helder Navy Museum, situated in the early 19th century naval dockyards, which has the most amazing collection of boats and buildings.
Posted May 9, 2021, 3:51 PM by Posts Editor
Australian Register of Historic Vessels (ARHV)The LBT already has 2 boats on this register (Nancy and the Monty), which can be viewed online at http://arhv.anmm.gov.au/collections . The Maritime Museum has sent us an email seeking further nominations. If you have a strong view about any of our other boats contact the committee. If you want to put forward another boat see the form at http://arhv.anmm.gov.au/nomination/form
Posted May 9, 2021, 3:53 PM by Posts Editor
Solar panels for the LBT roofOne of the aspirations of the LBT is to ‘ strive for a sustainable way of life’ and in line with this goal we have sort funding over the years for solar panels. It looks like this may finally become a reality, with both the major parties in the Tasmanian election promising that if they achieve government they will make the appropriate grants. Thanks to Bec Enders and Toby Thorpe for their support.
Posted May 2, 2021, 3:57 PM by Posts Editor
Australian 5 virtual Skiff regattaLorrie Harrison writes: ‘From the West to the East coast across Australian crews in St Ayles skiffs have been rowing the ‘Australian 5’ this past weekend. Named because 5 crew members cover 5km. It has been the first dispersed event to be held in Australia for skiff rowing, one where we can all participate but we don’t need to be together. Three crews from the LBT have joined in the fun: Castle Forbes Bay, Making Waves and the Five Mile Crew. All three crews could be seen out training during these past few months and all three crews pulled those oars as hard as they could for 5km, totally exhausted at the finish line. Thanks to the supporters who …
Posted May 2, 2021, 3:38 PM by Posts Editor
New key lockerPaul Frost and the Tuesday group have replaced the plastic key buckets which used to sit on top of the fridge with the very flash number pictured below, which is hung at the end of the laundry bench, beside the entrance to the disabled toilet.
Posted May 2, 2021, 12:13 AM by Posts Editor
Mike’s NetsMike Dredge gave his first class on net repair last week. We are looking forward to the next instalment Monday at 5pm.
Posted May 2, 2021, 12:06 AM by Posts Editor
Use ‘Check in Tas’ at the LBT from May 1stIt’s the invasion of the QR codes: there is now one in the middle of the front door (pics below). In order assist with potential Covid tracing and help keep everybody safe you should zap this with the ‘Check in Tas’ app on your mobile phone when you visit the shed. Download the app from the appropriate store: https://tinyurl.com/4rywarct (Google) or https://tinyurl.com/mav2h4f8 (Apple). The [edited] instructions from the State Government are as follows. ‘The Tasmanian Government now requires use of the free Check in TAS app to collect contact information about everyone who spends time at an applicable organisation’s premises. This is done by requiring people to scan a unique QR code …
Posted Apr 29, 2021, 5:29 AM by Posts Editor
Movie ‘The Host’ at the Palais, Sunday May 2ndA Korean monster movie by the director of the Oscar winning ‘Parasite’. Sounds like a lot of fun. Doors open 6.30pm, admission $5, film starts after 7.15pm but before 7.30pm. The bar will be operating, Food may be shared but feel free to bring your own. The Palais Collective Shop will be open prior to the movie. Locally made crafts, cards and other gifts are available.
Posted Apr 27, 2021, 5:00 AM by Posts Editor
LBT MooringThat rather exotic looking green boat that was lurking around upstream last week was servicing moorings, including the one owned by the LBT which now has some decent ground tackle fitted to it. It is number 9169, with an orange buoy and it is just upsteam of the Wooden Boat Centre. Pics and map below.
Posted May 2, 2021, 10:54 PM by Posts Editor
Heading home from Dawn Anzac Day ServicePip Stevenson took this snap of Will Hallinan rowing home. Must have been interesting rowing to the service before dawn.
Posted Apr 24, 2021, 9:39 PM by Posts Editor
Australian 5 Skiff EventThe First National Dispersed Skiff Event is on this coming weekend. THE LBT have entered 3 crews in the female division, each rowing 5km. You might like to come on down and cheer them on. Castle Forbes Bay starting 4pm on Friday, Five Mile Crew starting 8am Saturday, Making Waves starting 9am on Sunday.Times are weather dependent. Start and finish will be in the same spot near the LBT with the finish a bit over 1/2 an hour after the start. See poster below for more details: https://tinyurl.com/nvx2kwr5
Posted Apr 24, 2021, 9:32 PM by Posts Editor
Monday night BBQ coming upWe can’t have Matt and John cooking us fabulous repasts every night: sometimes we have to do for ourselves. Bring something to throw on the hot plate, something to share, and $5 to pay for gas and sundries. See you there. Pic from Wikimedia
Posted Apr 24, 2021, 12:54 AM by Posts Editor
Richard Stubbs at Frank’s 3rd JuneFunnies at Frank’s will feature Richard Stubbs on this date. See flyer below for details: https://tinyurl.com/53khac4d
Posted Apr 23, 2021, 4:18 AM by Posts Editor
Rowan on duty with Tas Land ConservancyRowan was in service ferrying the workers out to Egg Island to tackle the New Zealand Flax and to manage their camera traps – pics below. Of particular interest was what has been captured on the cameras – the usual suspects but also Pygmy Possums, Potoroos, Spotless Crakes and a Bittern. One of the secrets of the success of the small mammals is no cats.
Posted Apr 23, 2021, 2:44 PM by Posts Editor
Tassie Men’s Shed NewsRead the latest attached: https://tinyurl.com/jxjpwh6
Posted Apr 23, 2021, 3:36 AM by Posts Editor
Castle Forbes ForestYanti writes:‘I had a lovely night meeting many people of the LBT on Monday, thank you for the opportunity to make a little announcement. Visit a beautiful patch of old wet forest just 7ks from Franklin. The forest is magnificent and of high conservation value, and many in the Franklin community are working to protect it. There will be a free guided walk through Castle Forbes Forest at 10am on Sunday the 2nd of May. Immerse yourself and learn about the ecology of the forest. The walk is 1.5 kms and takes about 2 hours. Book here: https://castle_forbes_forest_walk.eventbrite.com.au. You can also visit the forest on your own (see map below). There …
Posted Apr 21, 2021, 4:12 AM by Posts Editor
May 8th fund raising event postponed until SeptemberThe event advertised for May 8th has now been put forward until Saturday September 4th – something to celebrate the beginning of spring. More details to follow.
Posted Apr 19, 2021, 6:34 PM by Posts Editor
Vale Pip’s Knots, long live Mike’s Nets – 5pm next weekA reminder that Mike Dredge will be starting his net making course next week at 5pm, Monday evening. Mike tells us that he is happy to be flexible, guided by what people want and need. Bring a couple of net needles – about 12- 15 cm and a cob of mending twine, about 9-12 ply, purchased either at Franklin Marine or online (for instance at https://www.hookedonline.com.au/accessories/tools/net-needles/ and at https://www.hookedonline.com.au/50gm-spool-of-seahorse-kuralon-net-twine-white-net).This is also an opportunity to thank Pip Stevenson for his knots course. Kevin Robson sent in the following illustration of the sort of problem that those who DIDN’T …
Posted Apr 18, 2021, 4:20 PM by Richard Forster
Rhonda K and BobThe newly varnished and painted Rhonda K recently caught the eye of photographer Craig Bryant (well she would wouldn’t she?), and then he spotted Bob admiring his handiwork. Pics below – thanks Craig.
Posted Apr 18, 2021, 2:02 PM by Posts Editor
Little blue boxThe small monitor pictured below is the main visible sign that Brian Marriott has installed a new controller in Nancy: the old one broke. This job, which required real expertise, was done at speed to have the boat ready for last week’s Maritime Trail. Thanks Brian: we owes ya.
Posted Apr 17, 2021, 10:41 PM by Posts Editor
Tasmanian Gothic (aboard Nancy)A few weeks ago Nancy participated in the production of a sort of foodies promotional film called ‘Last Drinks Tasmania’. It has been released online and the bit featuring Nancy can be viewed at https://youtu.be/ajVFE0j6-mY – you will need to speed ahead to around the 25 minute mark if you really want to cut to the chase. The presenter, who took the wheel, had as her crew a couple of rubes who look as though they had just come down to the boat after a hard day at the still. Appropriate for the subject matter we suppose.
Posted Apr 18, 2021, 3:55 PM by Posts Editor
Maritime Trail Wrap UpPaul Stephanus from the Australian Wooden Boat Festival sent a big thank you to the LBT for their support of this event, and a link to a very entertaining video summary of what went on: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=u-5R5D-zqBw .
Posted Apr 16, 2021, 5:53 PM by Posts Editor
Lake Pedder RaidAndy Bullock writes: A contingent from the LBT recentlyundertook a raid on Lake Pedder, enjoying a halcyon three daysbetween a wind-swept Dover regatta and the cold, rainy weather thatsubsequently prevailed. Lake Pedder is a truly magnificent andbeautiful cruising area; the lake is ringed by rugged, jaggedmountains while the extensive waterway has an abundance of bays,inlets, and islands to explore. The participating boats were “Freyja”the St Ayles skiff, with a borrowed sailing rig, “Hop the Wag”, aBay Raider 20, a lovely, newly-launched Herreschoff Cochina clinkerdinghy from Launceston, named “Shep” in honour of a beloved dog,and my sea kayak. Most people camped at Ted’s Beach, near thenorthern end …
Posted Apr 17, 2021, 10:44 PM by Posts Editor
Maritime Trail at the LBTThe LBT was asked to ‘get people on the water’ for the Maritime Trail organised by the the Wooden Boat Festival for the weekend just gone (April 10-11). The weather could have been worse, but only just, so lurking around the sausage sizzle on the verandah for shelter and warmth was a favoured activity. We did however manage to do some sailing in the whaleboat and rowing in the Skiffs and Grebes between showers, and of course Nancy’s covered cabin was a good place to be for joy rides. Thanks to all who contributed: the cooks, and the crews. LBT people were also involved in the symposium at the Palais, particularly the ‘Women and Water’ seminar organised by …
Posted Apr 11, 2021, 4:57 PM by Posts Editor
Good Friday rowThis event has become a tradition, and at the LBT we like traditions. Lorrie Harrison sent in the pics below.
Posted Apr 11, 2021, 3:30 PM by Posts Editor
Perfect varnishing dayJane Johnson took advantage of the weather to get the bright work gleaming on Imagine for the Maritime Trail event. See pic from Jane below.
Posted Apr 11, 2021, 3:21 PM by Posts Editor
Australian 5: 30th April – 2nd MayIf you are you interested in forming a crew and being part of this Australia wide dispersed St Ayles Skiff event contact Lorrie: lorrie7113@gmail.com or Natalie: natalie.wiliams@entura.com.au . More details on the flyer below.
Posted Apr 11, 2021, 3:10 PM by Posts Editor
Winter rowingLorrie Harrison writes: ‘The Friday morning social row has moved to our Winter start time of 10am on the water. We would love some more women to come and join us.’
Posted Apr 11, 2021, 3:01 PM by Posts Editor
Come along to net making course beginning 26th AprilMike Dredge has kindly offered to run this course. Mike writes: ‘participants will need a couple of net needles – about 12- 15 cm and a cob of mending twine, about 9-12 ply. Net needles are available from a range of sites on the Web at about $6 for a set of half a dozen (I have no idea of quality) and there are also a wide range of net repair twines on offer on the Web. One site has 50 gm cobs of Kuralon for about $6, but they seem to have only 18 ply at the moment, which might be a bit heavy for what we’ll be doing. Participants also will need to bring a good twine …
Posted Apr 11, 2021, 2:48 PM by Posts Editor
More rowing photos from Port Esperance RegattaThanks to Lorrie Harrison for these – we notice John Young in the bow seat in the first of them. Great to have a life member involved.
Posted Apr 5, 2021, 2:32 PM by Posts Editor
Dick Geeves Thanksgiving Service 10am April 16thBecause of Covid there was no proper gathering when Dick Geeves died. His family write: ‘It was always our intention to hold an event in Tasmania to celebrate our father’s life when restrictions on travel and assembly eased. Accordingly, a thanksgiving service will now be conducted at 10am on Friday April 16 at the Geeveston Community Church, Geeveston. We hope to see many of Dick’s family and friends at the service and at the RSL to follow. Thanks to Celia Leverton for pointing out this one to us.’Thanks to Celia Leverton for spotting this one. Pic from Zainab Clarke
Posted Apr 4, 2021, 7:30 PM by Posts Editor
Rowing Report: Port Esperance Regatta 2021Jane Johnson writes:The long 8km row around Hope Island was brought forward to kick off the racing events as winds were worsening and there was the likelihood of cancellation. The Women’s Castle Forbes crew in Imagine took the lead and maintained the pressure until the end, followed by Five-Mile Crew in Billie and Dover in Freyja.Despite the hot and blustery conditions, the St Ayles Skiff racing segment of the Dover Regatta drew enthusiastic cheers from the onlookers as four skiffs battled it out throughout a tough 1km course. New rowers and keen crew joined the 1km races which bodes well for Dover, who are building their own community skiff this year. It was great to see …
Posted Apr 4, 2021, 3:35 PM by Posts Editor
Book for the Maritime Trail this coming weekend (10-11 May)Yep: it is upon us. There are all sorts of events scattered around the State. Some of them are booked out already, some are not. You can find out, and make your own bookings, at https://www.australianwoodenboatfestival.com.au/maritime-trail-program . Of particular interest in Franklin is the series of seminars and workshops and films at the Palais. On Saturday:Cody Horgan, 3pm-4pm;Sea Shanty Workshop, 4.30pm – 6.30pm;Palais Theatre – Fisherman’s Friend Film; 7pm – 9pm. On Sunday: Surfboats and Rangers 10-11.20am;WOMEN AND WATER PANEL 11.40-1.10pm;Forestry & Wooden Boats 1.40-3pm;Founding the Festival 3.30-4.30pm;Writing about Boats 5-6pm;Best of AWBF 6.30 …
Posted Apr 4, 2021, 3:21 PM by Posts Editor
BBQ Night 5th MayIt was such a success last week we have decided to do it all again. If you aren’t away for Easter, going to Lake Pedder, and don’t have a broken foot (ouch on your behalf Kate) show up with something to chuck on the plate and something to share. See you around 6.30pm. Pic by Sander van der Wel from Wikimedia Commons
Posted Apr 4, 2021, 2:41 PM by Posts Editor
LBT fund raising event bumped to May 8thSATURDAY MAY 8TH is the new date for our LBT fundraiser, a Cabaretevening at the Palais. Some of the attractions include: Playback Theatre; Steve and MarjorieGadd and friends; Teahouse – mixingeastern and western styles and sounds;Terry Mead andRocket Science. More announcements to come. For anybody who is interested this event was bumped by some election: the nerve of those politicians.
Posted Apr 4, 2021, 3:36 PM by Posts Editor
Capricornia to Dover (and back)Capricornia went to Dover for the Regatta. Shown here are some of the crew Rob, Hans, Will and Pip. Richard Martin and Henk (not pictured) also came down for the race. After a huge amount of work by many people over the last few weeks Capricornia’s mast was repaired and rigged for the event. Unfortunately the wind was so blustery and violent that the whole sailing part of the Regatta was cancelled. As a crew we were disappointed not to race but relieved not to have to go out and capsize! NOW THE NEXT HAPPY EVENT WILL BE THE RETURE DELIVERY BACK TO FRANKLIN. Please let Hans or Pip know if you are interested. Our commiserations and thanks go …
Posted Apr 4, 2021, 5:42 AM by Posts Editor
Freyja the tender?When Capricornia arrived in Dover for the Port Esperance Regatta there was the small matter of getting the crew ashore once they had her anchored. Fortunately Freyja was to hand and was put to work to do the ferrying work. Thanks Freyja crew!Pics from Endra O’May
Posted Apr 4, 2021, 4:35 AM by Posts Editor
Lady Levinia gets up steamRecently Judy and Martin Krynen passed on Lady Levinia to Brian Pain, and last week he was spotted taking her for an inaugural excursion around the Egg Islands with chief engineer Brian Marriott and advisor Andrew Perkins – pic below.
Posted Apr 4, 2021, 4:36 AM by Posts Editor
New role for Betsy WaltonShe has become a duck roost (see pic below). We may have a manure problem.
Posted Apr 4, 2021, 1:24 AM by Posts Editor
The Australian National Bushfire Health and Wellbeing SurveyThe Tassie Men’s Shed Association writes:‘A team of researchers at The Australian National University are conducting a nationwide survey to understand the past and present impact of bushfires and smoke on health, wellbeing, and lifestyle. We need to hear from more people, both with and without bushfire experience. Your participation will help identify how to support and protect the well-being of Australians when faced with future bushfires. You could also win a $50 Prezzee card! To take the survey, please head to our website bit.ly/3a71pAt’
Posted Apr 4, 2021, 12:44 AM by Posts Editor
Fundraiser planned for May 1stEndra O’May writes that plans are underway for ‘a big night of entertainment at the Palais on May 1st – put it in your diary today!’. More details to come shortly.
Posted Mar 28, 2021, 4:40 PM by Posts Editor
Tickets selling fast for Maritime TrailMore details from the AWBF attached: https://tinyurl.com/24p6jjyt . You can travel across the State to attend an event in Queenstown or Devonport, or stay right at home to enjoy a seminar at our own Palais Theatre. Tickets and program at https://www.australianwoodenboatfestival.com.au/maritime-trail-program.
Posted Mar 28, 2021, 4:05 AM by Posts Editor
End of Month Monday BBQThis Monday night (29th March) the cook is taking a break. Well actually she is getting a break (in her foot) fixed. We all hope it goes well Kate. Those who are coming to dinner should bring along something for themselves (to throw on the barbie), and something to share, plus $5 to help keep the shed running. Pic from vxla
Posted Mar 28, 2021, 2:23 PM by Posts Editor
Athol Walter boat needs a new homeIf you have ever admired Grant Maddock’s red ‘Apache‘ which is often anchored in the river (pic below), you may be interested in her sister boat ‘Sioux‘, currently in South Australia and looking for a home. Rob Ayliffe writes:‘I have had in my care for the past five years a beautifully built Athol Walter built Sioux open ocean racing boat. She is well known to Tasmanians, especially, and in very good structural condition all Huon planked, Nanni 2 cylinder barely used 13hp diesel, built in Geeveston and launched Circa 1963. She on the register of historic Tasmanian Ships. I have tried many times and at some expense to find her a good home. I can no longer afford …
Posted Mar 27, 2021, 4:27 PM by Posts Editor
Playing pontoon(s)There is progress being made in getting the requisite permits for permanently moored pontoons, but in the meantime there is a new experiment for deploying them. See pics below. From this:to this:
Posted Mar 17, 2021, 3:30 PM by Posts Editor
Mamma Rosa’s Froiday Tombola at Frank’s 9th AprilDavid Moore writes:‘Mamma Rosa calls a few rounds of Bingo (in Italian AND English of course!)…complete with home-made prizes, and guaranteed laughs-a-plenty. LET’S DO IT!!! Froiday April 9th 2021. Doors open from 6pm. NOTE: Dinner ISN’T included in the ticket price. Details of the menu choice and pricing TBA. Frank’s will be set up cafe-style with tables and chairs for you to eat your dinner at and play Tombola. Tombola starts from 7pm.’ See flyer below for booking details.
Posted Mar 27, 2021, 4:39 PM by Posts Editor
Monday evening at the ShedIt was a hive of activity: Kevin and Peter were putting a carbon fibre sleeve on the newly repaired mainmast for Capricornia, Pip Stevenson was conducting a knot tying course, and Martin Riddle was chairing a meeting to discuss options for the Pedder ‘Raid’. Pics below (minus the meeting – too boring).
Posted Mar 17, 2021, 5:21 AM by Posts Editor
LBT Satisfaction SurveyThere has been quite a good response to the survey distributed a couple of weeks ago, but it would be helpful to have opinions from an even broader range of members, so we are publicising this initiative again. Please complete and submit the form at https://tinyurl.com/y4qssmm2 . Feel free to be frank: particular responses will not be made public, but will of course be shared by committee members. Names are requested so we can identify multiple responses (which are fine) and to try to eliminate the notorious internet ‘trolls’, but if you are feeling shy use a pseudonym.
Posted Mar 14, 2021, 1:30 PM by Posts Editor
Pip’s knots 5pm MondaysPip Stevenson’s knots class has been progressing nicely with a healthy attendance and lots being learnt. Drop ins are welcome: just be at the Shed before 5pm. Pic from www.animatedknots.com
Posted Mar 14, 2021, 1:17 PM by Posts Editor
Lake Pedder mini-Raid – 5-8 AprilWe are organising a mini Raid to Lake Pedder for the week following Easter (5-8 April). There will be a meeting to flesh out plans at the LBT Shed this Monday (15 March) at 5.30 pm. Don’t worry if you can’t make – if you complete the Expression of Interest we will pass on anything useful that comes out of it (the EOI form is here: https://tinyurl.com/11matulr). Our intention is to keep the logistics as simple as possible, which means self-catering and no support crew. We will base ourselves at one site near Strathgordon with the option for participants to camp at Ted’s Beach or stay in the Lake Pedder Wilderness Lodge …
Posted Mar 14, 2021, 1:05 PM by Posts Editor
Wilson’s Boatshed to be demolishedJay Lawry writes:‘Dear Members,When I first sailed in to Port Cygnet at the very beginning of 2017 after a 14-day solo non stop passage from Albany in Western Australia via Matsuyker Island, I was tired and not a little damp; I was craving the sanctuary of a secure anchorage for a night or two before continuing on to Hobart and the Australian Wooden Boat Festival of that year. I found it just a few hundred metres from the Port Cygnet Sailing Club Clubhouse.Since that time, I have worked at Wilson’s on the construction of a new launch and at Franklin and Wilson’s on the restoration of a 1935 launch.Every time I walk into …
Posted Mar 3, 2021, 3:22 PM by Posts Editor
Tassie Men’s Shed NewsNot just for men, this issue largely devoted to some of the common health ‘challenges’ many of us face. Read all about it at https://tinyurl.com/yauh8x3g.
Posted Mar 3, 2021, 3:02 PM by Posts Editor
Skiffie Worlds 2022Lorrie Harrison has sent us the following announcement: SkiffieWorlds 2022 27June – 2 July Kortgene,Netherlands Yes,it’s on again. This is the event for rowers and coxes that areserious about racing, prepared to commit to training and fitness, aswell as the expense of travelling to Europe. But what an experience!Competing against teams from all over the world, meeting and havingfun with fellow Skiffers, gaining more experience and knowledge ofrowing and coxing as well as joining in the Saturday night dance!!Ifyou would like to know more or think you might like to go pleaseemail Lorrie. (lorrie7113@gmail.com)https://www.skiffieworlds2022.com/
Posted Mar 3, 2021, 2:11 PM by Richard Forster
Water Women and WoodThis ‘Panel Discussion looking at the attraction, joys and challenges of Wooden Boats from the female perspective’ is one of the seminars being offered at the Palais as part of the Maritime Trail on April 11th. It will be hosted by Ginny Gerlach, founder of Water Women. Endra O’May has sent us the attached description and summary of the participants – see https://tinyurl.com/ybjgoebl .
Posted Mar 3, 2021, 10:39 AM by Richard Forster
Maritime Trail April 10-11 official programA reminder that the Australian Wooden Boat Festival (AWBF) has organised this event as a kind of tour of the wooden boat attractions of the State. They write: ‘Join us at midday March 9, 2021 to get pre-access to the Maritime Trail 2021 tickets before the general public on March 10. Discover boatyards, take a sail on a Tall Ship or listen to a Forestry Forum at the beautiful Palais Theatre. From the wild West Coast to Franklin, to Low Head to Woodbridge. From midday on March 9 2021 – tickets will be available for purchase via our website to thank you for your loyal support. The website will be live from midday March 9, so get in quick, these …
Posted Mar 2, 2021, 9:42 PM by Posts Editor
Get your LBT news dailyThe weekly LBT news digest sometimes has announcements for events that have already passed – that is the nature of digests. If this troubles you the solutions are to either watch the LBT website or have your news emailed to you daily by completing the form at http://eepurl.com/1cl7H. This latter option may also be selected from the ‘About Us’ menu on the LBT website: see screenshot below.
Posted Mar 1, 2021, 3:15 PM by Posts Editor
Pip’s knotsAfter a false start last week (Pip was crook) knot making will be on this evening, Monday night, at 5pm, before dinner. There will be an emphasis on practical applications: tying up boats etc, but we’ll go where the class leads us. Pip is an old sea dog with much wisdom to share. Pic from www.animatedknots.com
Posted Feb 28, 2021, 12:59 PM by Posts Editor
Movie night at the Palais Sunday 7th of MarchIt is ‘Birds of Passage‘: ‘an epic portrayal of the rise and fall of a Colombian indigenous family as it is drawn into the drug trade with America. Based on extensive interviews with original participants, the film purports to be firmly based on true events.’Doors open 6.30pm; Admission $5; Film starts after 7.15pm but before 7.30pm; The bar will be operating, offering libations including stimulants, depressants and comfort drinks. Food may be shared but feel free to bring your own.
Posted Feb 28, 2021, 12:44 PM by Posts Editor
Remembering Martin Krynen this Sunday Feb 28thJudy Krynen has organised an ‘open shed’ at the old apple evaporators (just downstream of the LBT) for Martin’s friends to gather and help celebrate his life, this Sunday 4-6 pm. Some food and drink provided.
Posted Feb 26, 2021, 4:53 PM by Posts Editor
Paul Frost’s model CartelaPaul’s model Cartela has had her maiden voyage. Sensational! See the pics from Paul below, and you should be able to download the movie from https://tinyurl.com/yda5ouao
Posted Feb 24, 2021, 1:06 PM by Richard Forster
Funnies at Frank’s Friday March 5thRachel Berger is the headline act for this International Women’s Day special. For more details see the flyer below.
Posted Feb 23, 2021, 6:49 PM by Posts Editor
AWBF Parade of SailThose of us who were too distracted, by Tawe Nunnugah and other activities, to participate in the Parade of Sail can enjoy it vicariously by viewing the video: https://youtu.be/kRXGEVwmNao.
Posted Feb 23, 2021, 6:29 PM by Posts Editor
The draw knife comes outIn the pic below Pete Laidlaw shaves the bad wood off one stub of Capricornia’s broken mast in preparation for a repair.
Posted Feb 25, 2021, 3:21 PM by Posts Editor
Vale Caro McRaeCaro, friend to many in Franklin and wife of long time LBT stalwart Ali, died on Monday afternoon, peacefully and with family and friends around her. Ali writes: ‘A Celebration of Caro’s life, will be held at Kingston Beach Oval ( Outdoors) on Friday 26th starting at 1.30 PM. Wake to follow in Kingston Beach. Please bring your bathers for a swim with Caro. Please forward this to people you think should know.’
Posted Feb 25, 2021, 3:22 PM by Posts Editor
Dinghy for Sale Refurbished Batten-seam carvel dinghy. 7’2” (2.1m) x 3’8” (1.1m). Huon Pine over Blackwood frames. Built c1940’s by O’May family. Oars and rowlocks. On unregistered trailer (if required). $2,450.00. 0438 300 229
Posted Feb 23, 2021, 4:46 AM by Posts Editor
Swimming in the Huon RiverJane Johnson writes: ‘Friday morning at 7.45 a new swim-group has started at the town jettyin Franklin for anyone interested. For Huon River dippers or EggIsland swimmers, the main thing is to enjoy a cold refreshing waterstart to the day with others. To join, just be there Fridays at 7.45.Contact Jane 0400717140 for details’.
Posted Feb 21, 2021, 1:48 PM by Posts Editor
Lake Pedder mini-RaidExpressions of Interest are open for the Lake Pedder mini-Raid. If there is enough interest LBT will run a 3 or 4 day mini-Raid to Lake Pedder in the first week of April. We will base ourselves at the camping ground at Teds Beach 4 kms from Strathgordon. If you don’t fancy camping, rooms are available at the Pedder Wilderness Lodge starting at $120 for a double/twin. The intent is to keep the whole organisation low key and take the opportunity to explore the area for possible future trips. Meals will be self-catering with the option to eat at the Lodge restaurant (example menu here – https://www.pedderwildernesslodge.com.au/images/PEDDER_menu_2020.pdf …
Posted Feb 21, 2021, 1:57 PM by Martin Riddle
Vale Martin KrynenBenefactor and friend of the LBT Martin Krynen died on Saturday. Our thoughts are with Judy and the family. Pic Peter Heading, Brian Marriott and Martin solving a Nancy problem
Posted Feb 20, 2021, 11:28 PM by Posts Editor
Assist with research‘Spanner in the Works’ is the newsletter for the Tasmanian Men’s Shed Association, of which the LBT is a member. They write: ‘On a regular basis the Spanner team receives requests to help recruit participants for surveys and research through our newsletter network. We decided to share these with you every quarter (separate to the newsletter). We hope you will find them interesting and participate as often as you can. We get the message ‘we need to hear from more males in our research’ all the time.’ Topics include risks to pedestrians, dementia and Covid 19. See attached for details: https://tinyurl.com/y8tw3fm7
Posted Feb 19, 2021, 12:41 PM by Posts Editor
Florence – project boatCraig Dixon from the Bass and Flinders Centre at Georgetown contacted us to say that the Centre does not have space to restore and display the historic fishing boat ‘Florence’ (C 1895), and is looking for somebody suitable to take her on. Graeme Broxam kindly supplied a description of the boat from his upcoming publication ‘Those that survive: Vintage and Veteran boats of Tasmania’. See attached (https://tinyurl.com/y88qmagq). Contact the Centre if you have a serious proposition to put to them: phone 6382 3792, email admin@bassandflinders.org.au. Pics from Craig Dixon
Posted Feb 21, 2021, 5:32 PM by Posts Editor
Busy WaterfrontJane Johnson writes:‘It was all happening at the LBT on Tuesday with a large 1940s wooden fishing boat from the marina being prepared for a trailer voyage to South Australia for repairs and restoration. On the Yukon jetty Richmond artist Rick Crossland was capturing the attractive wooden boat scenery that featured Billie the St Ayles Skiff. Rick exhibits at the Jane Franklin Art Gallery in Lenah Valley and LBT members will be notified of future exhibitions. The artwork captured the reflections of the sunny autumn skies and the ambience of the jetty, boathouse and a selection of wooden boats.’
Posted Feb 17, 2021, 4:26 AM by Posts Editor
Sail from Port Huon to HobartIf you are interested in crewing on a yacht being transported from Port Huon to Hobart contact Pip Stevenson: 0401 295728.
Posted Feb 17, 2021, 3:44 AM by Posts Editor
Lost and Found – from tn21 and inside the LBT shed.Deb Van Velsen writes: ‘Lost during tn21: – a red and black inflatable collar lifejacket with ‘John Pollard’ written on it; – a black and white fender lost from safety boat B2 on the last day (see pic below). Found during tn21: – digital multimeter; – blue neoprene bottle holder; – blue Thermarest pillow. Please contact Deb on 0427554264 to to arrange reunions. Found at LBT shed: – various water bottles; – jumpers, hats, jackets, bathers, safety shirt, shorty wetsuit, etc. Items not claimed will be re-homed at the start of April.’
Posted Feb 20, 2021, 1:11 PM by Posts Editor
Maritime Skills Sessions – KnotsOne of the things some of our the more experienced LBT members have been very good at is sharing their skills. Pip Stevenson is one of those members, and he will be running an ‘Applied Knots’ course at 5pm on Mondays (before dinner) for anybody who is interested. Pip writes: ‘We will start by looking at different sorts of ropes, the difference between knots bends and hitches, the parts of a rope and applying the various knots to sail, mooring & anchoring techniques. I will also look at conventional and beam towing techniques. Of special interest will be some of the lesser known hitches such as the tugboat hitch and the stopper knot, these have many common applications and are not …
Posted Feb 15, 2021, 5:36 PM by Posts Editor
LBT Satisfaction SurveyThe LBT committee has put together the survey form at https://tinyurl.com/y4qssmm2 to assist with future decision making. If you wish to have some input complete and submit it. Feel free to be frank: the results will not be made public, but will of course be shared by committee members.
Posted Feb 15, 2021, 2:59 PM by Posts Editor
Open Day at the LBTSunday afternoon proved to be the perfect time to spend time beside and on the water with other families and friends from the Huon Valley. Sausages sizzled, Nancy puttered, sails were hoisted and oars deployed, whilst Terry Mead and his fellow musicians provided a melodious background to the activities. And the weather gods were kind – the sun shone and the sea breeze came up to fill those sails. Many thanks to Jane Johnson, Endra O’May and the team for making this happen. There were difficult circumstances to overcome and they did it. See pics below from Tom Stevens.If the Maritime Trail event we are participating in (April 10-11) can be as good as this we will all …
Posted Feb 14, 2021, 1:50 PM by Posts Editor
Mast building master classAs has been noted in a previous post, the mast of Capricornia was snapped in a blow coming up the river. Join Peter Laidlaw and the team on Monday afternoons from 3pm to help remedy the situation.
Posted Feb 12, 2021, 3:56 AM by Posts Editor
Was this the guilty party?Whilst an inspection of the broken mast on Capricornia was being conducted, a specimen of the Common (or possibly Tessellated) Mast Deathwatch Beetle was observed scuttling away from the scene of the crime. Did anybody hear ticking aboard Capricornia?
Posted Feb 12, 2021, 7:52 PM by Posts Editor
Participating in the Maritime Trail (April 10-11)When it became apparent that it wasn’t possible to run the Boat Festival, Paul Stephanus and his merry people decided that this was the perfect opportunity to do something that they had been contemplating anyway: run a series of smaller, coordinated events in towns with a maritime history. Franklin has been chosen as one of those towns, and the LBT has been asked to provide some ‘on the water’ activities. What we are contemplating is taking the public out rowing in Grebes and Skiffs, much as we have at previous Australia Days and the Bellerive Seafest, as well as joy rides in Nancy, and sailing in one of the whaleboats. If you would like to participate, either on a …
Posted Feb 12, 2021, 3:20 AM by Posts Editor
Pics from the RaidA repository of photos for is being created at https://tinyurl.com/yy49pqy2 . Pic from Phill – lunch at the Quarries
Posted Feb 11, 2021, 8:33 PM by Richard Forster
Open Day 14th February still on, Regatta cancelledCome to the Open Day, starting at 1pm for a barbeque, boats on the water, Nancy joy rides and music. Unfortunately the regatta part of the program, planned for the morning, has had to be cancelled.
Posted Feb 11, 2021, 3:17 AM by Posts Editor
LBT Committee meeting 11th FebThe next LBT committee meeting is coming up. An agenda is being prepared at https://tinyurl.com/y4l2xpfy. The draft minutes for the January meeting are at https://tinyurl.com/yxo9kfjd.
Posted Feb 7, 2021, 1:14 PM by Posts Editor
Freyja on the RaidThere was not sufficient interest for a rowing boat to participate in the main legs of Tawe Nunnugah, but Freyja has been on the trailer between camp sites and has been ideal for short excursions on the lay days. She has been up the Lune River, around Garden Island to Randall’s Bay and back to Charlotte’s cove, and to Sheepwash Bay on Bruny.
Posted Feb 4, 2021, 8:55 PM by Posts Editor
The LBT Franklin St Ayles Skiff Regatta and Open Day Sun 14 FebJane Johnson writes: ‘On Sunday February 14 we are opening are doors for all to sample and enjoy. There is something for everyone in the Open Day – a St Ayles Skiff Regatta begins at 9am for Women’s, Men’s and Mixed crews. From 11.30 there is an international-themed event with “join or form a team from your birthplace or background” (there is already a British team) followed by a similar “State of Origin” one kilometre race. Will Tasmania take the lead, given that community rowing of St Ayles Skiffs began in Franklin in 2012? The 250m final sprint should be a real spectator highlight. From 1pm there are opportunities to “Come and Try” rowing or sailing for …
Posted Feb 7, 2021, 1:51 PM by Posts Editor
Friday night TN21 breakup celebrationThere will be a celebration breakup dinner at the Scout Camp at Charlotte Cove before the Tawe Nunnugah fleet sails back to Franklin the next day (Saturday 6th). All who have helped witth Tawe Nunnugah in any way are invited as our guests, everybody else can come – $20 for dinner. We will be entertained by banjo player and singer Montz Matsumoto – everybody is expected to throw at least $5 on the hat. Look him up online: he is great! There is a cap on numbers: text Kate Hoorweg on 0419 693415 if you are coming.We
Posted Feb 4, 2021, 2:24 PM by Posts Editor
Tawe Nunnugah on landWhilst Tawe Nunnugah is essentially sea going, evenings ashore are a large part of the experience, and that relies on a land crew. Here they are queued up at the ferry terminal, ready to take the marquees and all the other equipment across to Bruny Island and the next campsite.
Posted Feb 2, 2021, 6:58 PM by Posts Editor
Tawe Nunnagah: the other boatsThere are lots of pretty sailing boats in the fleet, but they are accompanied by Tom Stevens’ Seair, the mothership, and the fast rescue ribs. Some of us have very good reason to be thankful to them, what with dragging anchors and other mishaps.
Posted Feb 2, 2021, 6:52 PM by Posts Editor
PiccoloThe smallest vessel in the Tawe Nunnugah fleet is Brian Walpole’s dory ‘Piccolo’. Small does not mean unseaworthy: Martin Riddle remembers clinging on to his Lazy E with white knuckles at the same time as Brian was enjoying a cuppa aboard Piccolo nearby. She rows very smartly too: leads out when others are in becalmed. Pics below.
Posted Feb 2, 2021, 6:47 PM by Posts Editor
Tawe Nunnugah: Dover to AlonnahFresh westerly breezes were what the doctor ordered for a quick trip across to Bruny Island, and there was time for loitering for lunch at The Quarries along the way. Pics below.
Posted Feb 2, 2021, 2:34 PM by Posts Editor
Tawe Nunnugah: Southport to DoverThe forecast lack of wind until the afternoon was taken as an opportunity for a late start, and the weather gods cooperated, providing a lively following south westerly to blow the fleet to Dover. Couple of pics below.
Posted Feb 2, 2021, 1:50 PM by Posts Editor
Tawe Nunnugah: excursion to Partridge IslandOne of the advantages of the relaxed TN21 schedule (no need to get to the Wooden Boat Festival) is the opportunity for side excursions, giving the land crew a chance to get on the water along with the regular sailors. Full use of this was taken with great conditions for a sail to Partridge Island, just off Bruny, with a following breeze to blow the fleet home. Pics below.
Posted Feb 2, 2021, 7:00 PM by Posts Editor
Tawe Nunnugah at SouthportSouthport is starting to get a reputation: calms that lull, then squalls that thrash. Everybody made it in in one piece and of course Jetty House is the best place to stay. Winds were much kinder on the second day and an expedition to Partridge island very successful. Some pics below.
Posted Jan 30, 2021, 10:58 PM by Posts Editor
Cooking up a storm at RechercheThe camp has moved to Moss Glen community hall to escape the weather. Good shelter for cooking, everything from carrots to abalone. Pics below.
Posted Jan 29, 2021, 2:42 AM by Posts Editor
Friday lay day at Recherche BayThe weather forecast was looking particularly fierce on Friday. Various activities, ranging from hiking in to Lions Rock through to reading and eating were enjoyed, depending on the the enthusiasm of participants. Pics below.
Posted Jan 29, 2021, 2:34 AM by Posts Editor
Tawe Nunnugah opening ceremonyThanks to Jason and Danny from the local indigenous community, who came down with their boys to perform a smoking ceremony and get Tawe Nunnugah underway. It was a wonderful opportunity to reflect on the relationship of cultures, land and sea in a place (Recherche Bay) that is of particular significance to all these things. If you want to find out more about indigenous fire practice contact Jason: jsmithpalawacaretaker@gmail.com
Posted Feb 2, 2021, 2:36 PM by Posts Editor
Wednesday: Tawe Nunnugah has made it to Recherche!After days of sorting, searching, fixing and packing at the shed, Tawe Nunnugah got underway and is now set up at Moss Glen on Recherche Bay.
Posted Jan 27, 2021, 1:38 PM by Posts Editor
Forecast versus actualOn Monday a participant in Tawe Nunnugah was proceeding to Recherche Bay on the basis of wind forecasts such as that shown in the blue line below – reasonably mild southerly winds. What actually happened is shown by the red line – peaking in a westerly gale at 2.40pm. You have to be ready for anything.
Posted Jan 26, 2021, 3:08 AM by Posts Editor
Monday dinner Jan 25: BYOAs usual at the end of the month – an opportunity for culinary creativity. Big dinner for Tawe Nunnugah participants (and others who want to come) on Tuesday night.
Posted Jan 24, 2021, 1:11 PM by Posts Editor
Dover Discovery in JanuaryJane Johnson writes:Living Boat Trust members traveled down to Dover to explore Port Esperance on board the St Ayles Skiff Freyja, which is on loan to the Dover community who are constructing their own Skiff. Freyja is available for use in Dover during their build for “Come and Try” days. Freyja can be rowed or sailed easily which is what the LBT group reinforced this week with explorations around the D’Entrecasteaux Channel and Port Esperance. A lunch stop after tying up in the crystal-clear waters of Hope Island, was followed by a quick sail back to shore with strengthening winds. Thanks to members of the Port Esperance Yacht Club who coordinated the collection of oars and fittings …
Posted Jan 24, 2021, 1:00 PM by Posts Editor
LBT First Aid Kits missingFour First Aid Kits belonging to the LBT have gone missing – one larger kit in a blue carry case, one medium kit in a white carry bag and two marine kits in waterproof plastic cannisters. All are labelled ‘LBT’ and are numbered. If you have borrowed them please return them to the Shed as soon as possible. If we don’t get them back very quickly we will buy replacements tommorow as they are needed for the tn21 Raid. We depart on Wednesday and Tuesday is a Public Holiday, so Monday is the last opportunity for us to buy replacements from St Johns in Hobart. If you have borrowed them and can’t get them back to us before noon …
Posted Jan 23, 2021, 5:56 PM by Martin Riddle
Planned Program for Franklin Regatta, February 14The Franklin St Ayles Skiff Regatta/ Living Boat Trust Open Day. Program 2021. Sunday February 14. Start times may change, crews to be ready 15 mins before. 9am Open Women 1km, 9.15 Open Men 1km, 9.30 Open Mixed 1km. 10.00 Open Women 2km 10.30 Open Men 2km, 11.00 Open Mixed 2km. 11.30 State of Origin 1km (Form a mixed team of birthplace or background). Tasmania, Victoria, NSW, Queensland, S.A., W.A., other. 12.00 Continent of Origin 1km (Form a mixed team of birthplace or background) Europe, Asia, Africa, Australia, New Zealand, Other12.30 250m dash all skiffs. 1pm Sausage Sizzle “Come and Try” – sail or row – open to all, Family fun …
Posted Jan 23, 2021, 12:51 PM by Posts Editor
tn21 Welcome Dinner – Members InvitedThe tn21 Raid Welcome Dinner will be held at the LBT Shed at 6.30pm for 7.00pm on Tuesday 26 January 2021. All LBT members and friends are invited. The Dinner is included in the fee already paid by those participating in the Raid and is free to all tn21 volunteer helpers. Extra tickets for friends and family, for LBT members not involved in the Raid and for anyone else who would like to come are available at $30 each. Beer and wine will be available for purchase. If you would like to come to the Welcome Dinner follow the link to the booking form. Even if you are doing the Raid as participant or helper, and think we …
Posted Jan 20, 2021, 11:37 PM by Martin Riddle
Getting ready to shift CapricorniaCapricornia has a wee bit of weight in her, and getting her lifted so that she can go on the trailer requires a mighty lot of people, or something mechanical like chain blocks. Lacking the people, Pete and Piet got the chain blocks set up on Monday afternoon.
Posted Jan 19, 2021, 3:04 AM by Posts Editor
Testing and taggingOne of the many jobs that must be done regularly in the shed is to check all the electrical equipment. Tom Stevens has done it a couple of times now – including this summer. Thanks Tom.
Posted Jan 19, 2021, 2:57 AM by Posts Editor
Across the dutchMaybe for we Tasmanians it is the double dutch. A recent post from Off Center Harbor reminded us that the Kiwis have a very vibrant wooden boat scene. It pointed us to ‘Waitemata Woodys’ (waitematawoodys.com), which, besides its own content has links to lots more.
Posted Jan 17, 2021, 1:44 PM by Posts Editor
Funnies at Frank’s February 12thDavid Moore writes:‘The headline act is Chris Franklin, a true Aussie legend, supported by Ben Richardson and Brittany Szlezak. Dinner is available at the venue on the night as-well. Bookings advised for dinner reservations: https://www.trybooking.com/BNNQM. The latest information on who is coming and when, can be found through Facebook, www.face ok.com/pg/franksciderbar/events/, or the Frank’s Events web page:www.frankscider.com.au/funnies-at-franks.’For details of the Feb 12 event see the flyer below.
Posted Jan 12, 2021, 12:26 AM by Posts Editor
Augusta HospitalityJane Johnson writes:‘Shane and Jane Johnson, joined Augusta (W.A.) crew to explore the Hardy’s Inlet near the Blackwood River. The Augusta skiffs, after a much-celebrated launch in September, have been well-used by the Augusta community rowing group, which has even explored further afield up to Molloy Island. The next challenge could be the open waters of the ocean at Flinders Bay. The group are really enjoying the freedom created by the building of the St Ayles Skiffs which has opened up opportunities for so many locals. For the Tasmanians, in testing conditions, it was a great start to 2021 with a New Year’s Day exploratory row. Zoom and Colour Patch were named through sponsorship …
Posted Jan 10, 2021, 1:49 PM by Posts Editor
BoatryIt’s a new category of literature discovered by Gary McDonald. Sample from John Simlett below.
Posted Jan 10, 2021, 1:39 PM by Posts Editor
Hazards of the seaGary McDonald spotted this one.
Posted Jan 10, 2021, 1:34 PM by Posts Editor
Putting Louie through her pacesThe sea breeze has been up in the afternoon, and John Pollard with crew Piet and Endra took advantage to see how ‘Louie’ performed in the tight confines of the river. She looked great with her gaff cutter rig.
Posted Jan 10, 2021, 1:28 PM by Posts Editor
LBT tn21 Raid – can you help?The tawe nunnugah Raid is the LBT’s flagship event. In a normal year itinvolves people from right across the membership and brings people frominterstate and overseas. But of course this is not a normal year. From thestart of the pandemic we have known that there would be a lot of uncertaintyaround the Raid – the easy thing to do would have been to throw in the towelbut we thought it worth persevering. We have a small but robust fleet of mostlyTasmanian boats ready to do the Raid and have the backbone of supportvolunteers in place. However, we still need more people to help and there arestill places available for people to participate …
Posted Jan 7, 2021, 3:13 AM by Martin Riddle
Nordic clinker boatsGarry MacDonald pointed us to this really nice video on the topic: https://vimeo.com/387955223/1a4d1d51eb
Posted Jan 3, 2021, 2:49 AM by Posts Editor
AWBF lifejackets testedThe life jackets on ‘permanent’ loan from the Wooden Boat Festival were trialed by some volunteer crash test dummies on a recent warm afternoon, and we can report that there were no drownings. Our junior dummy said that the small size with the built in crotch strap is the only comfortable life jacket he has worn, and there is so much flotation in the larger sizes that a ‘medium’ was adequate to keep our extra large dummy safe. Pics from Ben Forster
Posted Jan 3, 2021, 1:15 PM by Posts Editor
January committee meeting January 7thAgenda being prepared at https://tinyurl.com/y9okvpnw, draft minutes from the December meeting are at https://tinyurl.com/yba9e2wm.
Posted Jan 3, 2021, 12:57 AM by Posts Editor
Monday 4th: start of LBT yearYes, dinner is on, and KATE IS BACK COOKING! Yay! And if you need to work up an appetite come and join the work crew from 3pm on. Capricornia is close to getting back on the water: let’s speed her on her way.
Posted Jan 2, 2021, 1:07 PM by Richard Forster
Palais movie night Sunday 3rd JanuarySynopsis: ‘In a remote Icelandic town, an off duty police chief begins to suspect a local man for having had an affair with his wife, who recently died in a car accident. Gradually his obsession for finding out the truth accumulates and inevitably begins to endanger himself and his loved ones. A story of grief, revenge and unconditional love.’ Doors open 6.30pm. Admission $5. Film starts after 7.15pm but before 7.30pm. The bar will be operating, offering libations including stimulants, depressants and comfort drinks. Food may be shared but feel free to bring your own.
Posted Dec 27, 2020, 4:06 AM by Posts Editor
Were these the guilty party?Monty has had a slow leak for some time. When she was hauled out and scraped unfilled nail holes, some shown in the pic below, were revealed. We will see if bog does the trick.
Posted Dec 22, 2020, 3:18 AM by Posts Editor
If you need an anchor …Look in the anchor locker! The bench at the end of the verandah is multi-purpose.
Posted Dec 22, 2020, 3:02 AM by Posts Editor
Looking Fancy on board NancyJane Johnson writes: ‘The botanical St Ayles Skiff tours wound up with a trip back in time – on board the 1917 cruiser “Nancy”. It was time to celebrate previous exploratory rowing trips around South Egg Island taking photos of spring flowers, with summer adventures further afield. This was an opportunity for a more leisurely tour to take more scientific photos of local plants and wildlife. And of course, the dress was “special hats”. Celebrations included a picnic, thanks to Michelle, and river music from John and Brendan. Final thanks to Brian the skipper, and of course, Nancy’.
Posted Dec 20, 2020, 2:01 PM by Posts Editor
Christmas BreakThe LBT Shed will be available to members for rowing, sailing etc over the Christmas period on an informal basis. The Tuesday Group will be taking some well earned time off. First Monday night dinner for 2021 is scheduled for January 4th. As announced in a previous post the Monday afternoon boat bee will continue through the break.
Posted Dec 20, 2020, 1:39 PM by Posts Editor
Monday afternoon workathonFor the past couple of months a dedicated team has been working on our boats on Monday afternoon to prepare them for the summer sailing season. Capricornia in particular has benefited from this care and attention. We intend to continue with this right through Christmas, making a big push to get everything shipshape for Tawe Nunnugah. Come and join us and help get the job done: 3pm on.
Posted Dec 18, 2020, 12:45 PM by Posts Editor
Tuesday morning row in companyThe Roger Harwood race conducted during Swiftsure Regatta reminded us that the Skiffs aren’t the only rowing boats at the LBT. John Young has set the lead: let’s join him on Tuesday mornings at 11am in our single and double rower dinghies. Pic from Zainab Clarke
Posted Dec 18, 2020, 12:23 PM by Posts Editor
AWBF December NewsletterRead the latest from the Australian Wooden Boat Festival: https://tinyurl.com/y7xwm7xk. Pic from AWBF
Posted Dec 18, 2020, 11:54 AM by Posts Editor
Lifejackets: thank you Australian Wooden Boat FestivalFor some time the following notice has been posted to the MAST website: ‘All life jackets in use on Tasmanian boats will need to adhere to the new standard AS4758.1 by 1 January 2021 (https://mast.tas.gov.au/safe-boating/safety-equipment/lifejackets/).’ That meant replacing ALL the jackets in the shed: potentially a very expensive business. Fortunately for us the AWBF have come to the rescue. They have a new batch of jackets which they only need for the Festival fortnight once every two years. In between times we get to store and use them: they have already been brought to us by Lyndon Bounday and are hung up ready for use (see pics below). Crotch straps …
Posted Dec 17, 2020, 2:28 PM by Posts Editor
Rat Island RaceJohn Snowdon sent in the pictures below, including a lineup of the usual suspects.
Posted Dec 15, 2020, 4:04 AM by Posts Editor
LBT Christmas Party Monday December 21stIt’s a ‘bring your own’ for yourself and to share so that everybody can enjoy it (no kitchen slaves). Start around 6.30pm, but come earlier if you want to help decorate the shed and set up.
Posted Dec 14, 2020, 11:11 PM by Posts Editor
Swiftsure Regatta ReportJane Johnson writes: ‘The Swiftsure Regatta had something for everyone on Sunday. Beginning with the Roger Harwood wooden dinghy rowing circuit race, the event was won by Kevin Robson in just over 45 minutes, despite the strong winds and constant pressure from high-calibre 2019 trophy-holder, Dave Nash. A Swiftsure Whaleboat crew achieved the fastest time-trial despite blustery conditions and Billie the St Ayles Skiff won the 1km pursuit with a determined rowing team. The afternoon program included the sailing “Rat-race” around Rat Island that swung into action with five Grebes, despite the hazards of an extremely low tide. The 1917 wooden ferry Nancy took out a packed spectator group that was able to watch the challenges …
Posted Dec 13, 2020, 1:03 PM by Posts Editor
Swiftsure Regatta this Sunday (13 December)The Swiftsure Regatta was postponed last week due to bad weather but the forecast for this Sunday (13 December) is looking great. The annual event has an emphasis on having a go for all, and fun, for families, newcomers, residents and visitors to the Valley. At 9.30am the Roger Harwood Race is a traditional wooden dinghy rowing event that anyone may join – currently there are record-winners amongst the four entrants, including one in his eighties. The whaleboat Swiftsure will be on the water with new thole pins to test in the form of “Come and Try events” and time trials throughout the day. At 10.30, the St Ayles Skiffs 1km pursuit begins and there are already crews …
Posted Dec 10, 2020, 2:50 AM by Martin Riddle
tn21 Raid – Please book now if you want to join usIf you are thinking of doing the 2021 tawe nunnugah Raid we need to hear from you. Planning is well under way and our priority at the moment is to ensure we have the right scale of logistics and catering in place for the size of the fleet. Many people have already booked but we know others intend joining the Raid. If you want to join us, please book now. Booking is easy but involves several steps designed to ensure we get the information we require to deliver the Raid and you get the information you need to prepare for it. Step 1: Join the tn21 mailing list at http://eepurl.com/gcXkXj – this means you will get information up …
Posted Dec 8, 2020, 3:53 PM by Martin Riddle
LBT Committee Meeting December 10thAn agenda for this meeting is being prepared at https://tinyurl.com/y3t82nym. If you have something you want on it email to sec@lbt.org.au
Posted Dec 4, 2020, 11:59 AM by Posts Editor
Swiftsure Regatta postponed until Sun. 13 DecThe Swiftsure Regatta is intended to be fun, however, the forecast for this coming Sunday suggests it will be anything but. We have seldom seen so much red on the Bureau of Meteorology’s Meteye wind chart – 35 to 45 knots with stronger gusts. If that’s not enough to put you off, they’re also forecasting rain. With discretion being the better part of valour it has been decided to postpone the Regatta until the following weekend – Sunday 13th December.
Posted Dec 3, 2020, 11:43 PM by Martin Riddle
Sailing race at the Swiftsure RegattaThehotly contested Rat Race for sailing dinghies will once again be a feature ofthe Swiftsure Regatta this Sunday afternoon (6th December). Bringalong your own dinghy or enjoy the challenge of ‘class racing’ in one of the LBTGrebes. The only rules are to keep Rat Island to starboard and, if the winddrops, use of oars is by consensus with those in hailing distance on the water.
Posted Dec 2, 2020, 3:12 PM by Martin Riddle
SWIFTSURE REGATTA this Sunday, December 6The annual Swiftsure Regatta starts at 9.30am this Sunday with theRoger Harwood Trophy for long distance rowing in traditional clinker dinghies.At 10.30, the St Ayles Skiff 1km pursuit is open to all – come with your own crew(Dover is rumoured to have a quality mixed side) or turn-up and join a team on the day.There are races for women, men and mixed crews and new or experienced rowers arewelcome. Awards go to the best-dressed side and to the crew with the quickesttime. With Swiftsure coming out of the shed aftera recent polish and paint and with new thole pins to test, there will be whaleboat time trials throughout the …
Posted Dec 2, 2020, 2:51 PM by Martin Riddle
Cygnet maritime history presentationTess Hallinan writes: ‘Attached is the flyer (https://tinyurl.com/y3mvoogx) for the Cygnet Living History Museum’s display of Cygnet’s Maritime History by Jean-Louis Boglio at Burton’s Reserve. The Weighbridge Cottage is small and has limited entry because of Covid requirements, so better time and value could be had by attending of a Thursday, until Christmas, 10 to 4pm. This actually coincides beautifully with the CWA’s Cake stall next door in Burton’s Cottage.’
Posted Nov 30, 2020, 5:05 PM by Posts Editor
Another Atkin boatGretchen was joined by a ‘big sister’, John Pollard’s ‘Louie’ on Monday night. John, Piet Lundstedt and crew had used the sea breeze to sail all the way up from Cygnet in time for dinner. Looks like a beautiful boat. John is seeking experienced crew to help him sail her in Tawe Nunnugah.
Posted Nov 30, 2020, 4:46 PM by Posts Editor
Pip’s newsPip Stevenson recently had a job transporting a super yacht down the NSW coast. Just as well he had gained some experience with us sailing Capricornia – we hope he was able to put it to good use.
Posted Nov 30, 2020, 4:33 PM by Posts Editor
Visit from the Australian Wooden Boat FestivalPaul Stephanus and his merry people have been out and about, scouting locations for the proposed ‘Maritime Trail’ weekend in April, and we were on their list. Read all about what they found and thought at https://www.australianwoodenboatfestival.com.au/november-site-visits-awbf-travels-south/ Pic from AWBF
Posted Nov 29, 2020, 5:36 PM by Posts Editor
Wooden Boat Centre newsCovid isolation has meant that the Wooden Boat Centre has been, well, isolated. But that doesn’t mean that they haven’t been getting on with it. Those of us who use the dinghy shed have been admiring it’s latest occupant Jane de Cray, the restoration of which was recently completed at the Centre, and every so often the wharfside doors are left open to reveal the bow of the Franklin 29 looming like a liner. See below for pictures from the Centre, and attached is a newsletter from the Franklin Working Waterfront Association/WBC: https://tinyurl.com/yxt9wy6b
Posted Nov 29, 2020, 1:47 AM by Posts Editor
First LBT long table of the seasonAt last Monday night’s BBQ the weather was right, the midgies weren’t too ferocious and it was time! We spread out a bit more than in times past in deference to Covid, but the enjoyment was the same.
Posted Nov 28, 2020, 1:11 PM by Posts Editor
The ‘Cadet’ sailsFor years a Cadet dingy left by Nick Fryer has been sitting over by the stone wall waiting for somebody to take up the challenge of restoring her. Mark Adams was the man for the job, and on Friday those of us on the Monty enjoyed a brief ‘sail in company’ with him.
Posted Nov 27, 2020, 2:59 PM by Posts Editor
Spring Bay Community Boatshed NewsletterAttached is the news from our friends at Spring Bay (Triabunna): https://tinyurl.com/y5pyrk55. For more about them see their website: http://triabunnavillage.com.au/spring-bay-community-boat-shed/. Judging by the picture in their ‘latest projects’ column they don’t mind taking on a challenge (see below).
Posted Nov 27, 2020, 1:18 PM by Posts Editor
Waratah seasonIf you need a break from the water then you could do worse than head for the mountains where the native vegetation is in full flower.
Posted Nov 28, 2020, 12:04 PM by Posts Editor
On the Water Program completed for 2020The Grebes are packed away safely in the shed, the life jackets have been returned to their hangers, and another group of children have trooped back to school having enjoyed themselves both on and in the water, and hopefully having learnt a bit along the way. Thanks to all who helped, especially Mike Dredge, Southerly Dolling, Tess Hallinan, Mark Adams and Richard Forster. And thanks to Basil van Reit, Dave Golding and the other teachers from Huonville Primary who were a pleasure to work with. Pic from Mark Adams
Posted Nov 28, 2020, 12:07 PM by Posts Editor
Human Rights Day at the Palais Thurs Dec 10Zainab Clark sent the flyer below (https://tinyurl.com/y2lnua2x). Looks like a really good event. More information from Zainab at https://tinyurl.com/yxo7kasv.
Posted Nov 26, 2020, 12:06 PM by Posts Editor
Monty sailsKevin Robson took this snap as she zipped past on a recent Friday evening showing a fair bit of antifoul.
Posted Nov 22, 2020, 11:51 AM by Posts Editor
Excursion with the Wooden Boat Guild to HuonvilleThe annual rally went off without a hitch on Sunday. This was helped by the personal line to the weather gods possessed by Andrew Perkins: as usual we were blessed with warm, benign conditions. ‘Imagine’ led the procession out of Franklin under oars (first pic below), and was followed by a fleet propelled by an array of motive forces (second pic). There were old fashioned outboards and inboards (third pic) and even older fashioned steamboats (fourth pic is Andrew’s Leprena). Our Nancy was one of the electric boats (fifth pic) of which Peter Shimeld’s converted lifeboat (sixth pic) is the latest on the river. His solar panels fully recharged his batteries whilst we were having lunch (we were …
Posted Nov 22, 2020, 11:42 AM by Posts Editor
Julie Burgess newsFor those who haven’t been keeping up, the ‘Julie Burgess‘ is the ‘Yukon‘ of Devonport, and she recently sailed into very troubled financial waters. Graeme Norris has been keeping us up to date on the progress of the consortium who have taken her over, and recently sent the attached report (https://tinyurl.com/yyp5wg27) from the ‘Advocate’ (theadvocate.com.au). In summary the consortium has attracted some impressive sponsors, and progress on necessary dockside facilities is being made. Apologies to Graeme for not getting this into the news sooner: it got ‘stuck’ at the bottom of the mailbox. For more about the Julie Burgess see julieburgess.org. Pic from ‘The Advocate’
Posted Nov 20, 2020, 6:31 PM by Posts Editor
Great News! Return of the Monday LBT BBQTime to take advantage of warm, summer evenings. Bring something to go on the hot plate and something to share down to the Shed this coming Monday around 6.30pm, as well as $5 to keep the doors open. The cooks are taking a break. Pic by Sander van der Wel from Wikimedia Commons
Posted Nov 22, 2020, 1:34 AM by Posts Editor
Bushfire Awareness Evening 2nd DecemberThe fire brigade are running an awareness evening 4pm-7pm at the Palais on this date. See flyer below for more details.
Posted Nov 18, 2020, 4:26 PM by Posts Editor
Stocking stufferGary Macdonald spotted this t-shirt which struck a chord with us. Pic from https://sentees.com
Posted Nov 15, 2020, 1:03 PM by Posts Editor
Swiftsure Regatta 6th DecemberIt is coming up! 9.30 am Roger Harwood dinghy row; 9-10.30 am Whaleboat time trials; 10.30 – 12noon St Ayles Skiffs 1 km pursuit; 12 -1 pm Lunch/awards; 1.30 – 3.30 Sailing Rat (Island) Race; Windup drinks and festivities, best dressed.
Posted Nov 14, 2020, 3:54 PM by Posts Editor
Cruise with the Wooden Boat Guild to Huonville this coming Sunday 22ndWe advertised this event a while ago, and suddenly it is upon us. Nancy is going up as well as Skiffs and whatever other boats we can muster. If you know you are coming and would like to have a meal at the Jetboat cafe let us know: sec@lbt.org.au.
Posted Nov 14, 2020, 3:59 PM by Posts Editor
Tawe Nunnugah 21 ItineraryThe team have been at work and the map below shows the proposed route and stops – click on it for an enlarged version. As can be seen there will be fewer camps than normal, leaving more time for day excursions around the south coast and south Bruny. For all the details head on over to the tn21 site: http://lbt.rforster.org/tawe-nunnugah/tn21
Posted Nov 12, 2020, 5:11 PM by Posts Editor
LBT Committee meeting Thursday 12th NovemberAn agenda is being compiled at https://tinyurl.com/y6djph8w. If there is business you wish to see addressed send it to sec@lbt.org.au or speak to your friendly committee member. Draft minutes for the October meeting can be viewed at https://tinyurl.com/y3hgmhrz.
Posted Nov 6, 2020, 4:07 PM by Posts Editor
Feel the widthPeter and Ninka’s Kelpie has been rafted up to Kevin and Sandra’s Merlin at the pontoon recently. Both boats are a similar length, but a front on view illustrates that this is is not the only measurement that matters.
Posted Nov 6, 2020, 2:04 PM by Posts Editor
Not a hole, an opportunityPaul Frost, with the help of friends, has filled the gap at the end of the verandah with a very stylish storage locker.
Posted Nov 6, 2020, 2:06 PM by Posts Editor
Wooden Boat Festival is backPaul Stephanus writes: ‘It’s been a busy of couple months finding our bearings after the cancellation of the 2021 Festival, though we’re on course now and excited to share our plans with you. First off, I’m very pleased to announce that the wooden boat community is coming together to present the 2021 Parade of Sail, scheduled for February 7th. It is a great opportunity to put on a spectacular show for Hobart at the height of Summer and get some fine wooden boats out on the water. But that’s not all! It’s also time to introduce a brand new event we’ve been working on – The Maritime Trail, a behind-the-scenes exploration of Tasmania …
Posted Nov 3, 2020, 12:07 PM by Posts Editor
Wood carving with DennisBegins at the LBT on Wednesday November 18, 10-12noon for 6 weeks. There will be a small charge to cover costs and places are limited. People will be provided with tools, a piece of wood for a nameplate and clay to model for special projects. THERE ARE ONLY FIVE PLACES so contact Jane 0400 717140 to book in.
Posted Nov 12, 2020, 2:39 PM by Posts Editor
Monty sails on FridayWhilst two of our whaleboats are in the shed being fussed over, the third, Monty, is on the pontoon ready to go, and the Friday sailing group have been taking full advantage of the afternoon breezes by getting her out on the water. Come down and join them after 4pm to help get set up. It is an opportunity for both novice and experienced sailors – Monty is unique. And the icing on the cake is joining the rowers for drinks and nibbles afterwards. An added bonus this coming week is that the Flying 15 should be on the water and available for use.
Posted Oct 30, 2020, 3:44 PM by Posts Editor
Heritage BoatsIf you have an interest old boats Tasmania, and Hobart in particular, is blessed with a range of organisations to cater to your particular enthusiasm. One of those is the Association of Heritage Boat Organisations (AHBO) which is based at the Maritime Museum. If you want to find out more about them (contact details etc) read the minutes from their AGM (attached): https://tinyurl.com/y26g8d2p
Posted Oct 30, 2020, 2:24 PM by Posts Editor
Cruising Dinghy ConversionsAndy Bullock writes:’Sailing dinghy designs developed for cruising rather than racing are a relatively new part of the sailing scene, partly fostered by the advent of ‘Raids’ using centreboard boats (although the competitive aspect of some Raids has seen the emergence of specialist performance-oriented designs). In the UK there is an active Cruising Dinghy Association. Martin’s and Deb’s ‘Hop the Wag’ is an example of a fine purpose-designed cruising dinghy. The designs of Australian expatriate Iain Outhred and New Zealander John Welsford are influenced by traditional dinghy and fishing boat designs but use modern ply/epoxy construction methods. However just as in the past, racing yachts that were past their competitive glory days were sometimes …
Posted Oct 30, 2020, 3:30 PM by Posts Editor
Verandah PostsWhen the loft was cleaned out we found 4 turned verandah posts which would seem to be Australian Red Cedar (pics below). We assume that these were a donation, perhaps on the assumption that we could use the wood. We don’t really have a use for them and are seeking expressions of interest – send a message to sec@lbt.org.au. If you can solve the mystery of their origin please tell us.
Posted Oct 29, 2020, 3:17 PM by Posts Editor
ROWING News NovemberJane Johnson writes: ‘There has been a suggestion that a rowing steering group would help communication between groups. If you are keen to have input for your group, meet down at the LBT@4pm Monday November 9. New ideas will cover these areas – figureheads for the skiffs (Freyja, a carved Nordic Goddess, Billie the Dog and an eagle for Imagine), events, maintenance, wood carving course etc. The proposed date for the Swiftsure Regatta including Roger Harwood/LBT windup is Sunday December 6. The Rowing Sub-Committee is aiming to have regular updates in the newsletter. The second Botanical skiff tour departed from the pontoon jetty in perfect Huon Valley conditions. There were numerous plants and wildlife (including 5 types of …
Posted Nov 1, 2020, 1:19 PM by Posts Editor
Monday afternoon at the shedAt the beginning of spring a new group formed to help get our fleet ready for the coming season. Here are a few pics of some of the activities last Monday.Capricornia was getting all sorts of attention. Henk painted the floorboards. Peter and Andy worked on the rudder. John installed flotation. Meanwhile on other boats, Mark was restoring the Cadet dinghy that has been languishing in a corner for years.Peter cut out new jaw blanks for a Grebe boom.
Posted Oct 27, 2020, 3:32 AM by Posts Editor
On the Water ProgramIt’s all about the weather, and particularly the wind. Last year we ended up being in the Shed more than out of it, poking out into the river between squalls. The first day this year was blessedly calm and our bunch of very tentative rowers were able to find their rhythm quickly and after lunch even go for a short expedition through the canal (pic below). Tomorrow (Tuesday) is looking ok too: fingers crossed. To find out more about the program see https://tinyurl.com/y6soooo6, and if want to be part of it send us an email: sec@lbt.org.au. Pic from Mark Adams
Posted Oct 25, 2020, 7:00 PM by Posts Editor
Main road Franklin, mid 1970’sDennis Muscovich found this photo taken before the road widening and the demolitions in front of where the Living Boat Trust now stands. The Huon News building (in the centre of the pic) is still there, as is the Bowmont.
Posted Oct 25, 2020, 2:13 PM by Posts Editor
tn21 Raid – one door closes, another opensSince the start of the pandemic we have known that the tn21 Raid, if it is to go ahead, could be very different from previous Raids. The 2021 Australian Wooden Boat Festival has been cancelled due to COVID-19. This was always a possibility and, although it is disappointing to loose a highlight of the boating calendar, it provides an opportunity for the Living Boat Trust to try something different. We still plan to hold a major small boat expedition in late January/early February 2021 but we are no longer constrained to arriving in Hobart for the AWBF – we are now free to explore other opportunities. If you would like to be part of our small boat expedition in …
Posted Oct 25, 2020, 3:52 AM by Martin Riddle
Huon at Home concert November 7th‘Oh, where oh where has live music gone? The COVID took it away from me… The Franklin Palais is bringing it back with a Day Festival Fundraiser to support the local musicians.We know that COVID has been devastating for the arts sector and live performances, so this fundraiser is to support our local musicians. Entertainers went months without gigs during lockdown and now face an uncertain summer, especially without festivals.’For more information, bookings etc, see the flyer https://tinyurl.com/y4qyvbo7 or the website https://franklinpalais.com.au/event/fundraiser/
Posted Oct 23, 2020, 5:26 PM by Posts Editor
Palais Movie Night Sunday 1 NovemberBarb Dawson writes: ‘Great News! ‘Bring a plate to share’ was a much-enjoyed tradition of Palais Movie nights before COVID. After seeking advice, we are now re-introducing this custom. We invite you to bring a plate to share this movie night. However, if you don’t yet feel comfortable eating from a shared plate, we suggest you join us with your own BYO nibbles and snacks. Doors open 6.30pm, bar open. Admission $5. Film starts after 7.15pm but before 7.30pm.’ And the film? Departures – a best foreign language Academy Award Winner. ‘Daigo is a young cellist in a Japanese city orchestra. His wife Mika works as a web designer. Times are hard for the orchestra …
Posted Oct 23, 2020, 5:13 PM by Posts Editor
It’s the little thingsAfter more than twenty years the brass rowlock sockets on the Grebes were getting very worn and starting to be a real problem. Bob Tubman has been steadily replacing them with ones he has manufactured.
Posted Oct 23, 2020, 5:00 PM by Posts Editor
Tide predictionsAt the top of the LBT webpage is a link to ‘WillyWeather tide, wind and weather (Castle Forbes Bay)’. A question which is of perennial interest is ‘how good are the tide predictions compared to actual observations?’. A while ago Brian Marriott suggested that the river height at Huonville (the nearest point measured by BOM) would be a good proxy for observation, and we agreed. The BOM data can be found at http://www.bom.gov.au/fwo/IDT60252/IDT60252.094180.plt.shtml and http://www.bom.gov.au/fwo/IDT60252/IDT60252.094180.tbl.shtml. Comparative plots, first from WillyWeather, then from BOM are shown below. As can be seen, the answer to the question is that reality is a …
Posted Oct 25, 2020, 1:24 PM by Posts Editor
Wood carvingDennis Muscovich has been making new name signs for the cabins at Melaleuca (Port Davy). He’s thinking of putting on a course later in the year. A good idea?
Posted Oct 23, 2020, 4:39 PM by Posts Editor
All right for someWhilst most of us wait patiently for warmer sailing weather others have taken matters into their own hands and headed north. Hans Sipsma has just left Bowen in northern Queensland and is cruising down the coast. Attached pic is of Gloucester Island in the Whitsundays, taken by Endra O’May who is crewing for him on the first leg of his trip. Endra reports that they went ashore to see turtle nests with lots of goanna tracks around them. Not so good for the turtles. We believe Hans is on the lookout for more crew. Anybody interested? Meanwhile Pip Stevenson is out on the water somewhere around Sydney. If you are subject to wheel envy you don’t want to …
Posted Oct 18, 2020, 2:14 PM by Posts Editor
Botanical Skiff ToursJane Johnson writes:‘Sunday October 18 saw the start of LBT “Botanical Skiff Tours” that in a leisurely fashion, discovered interesting flora and fauna along the banks of Egg Island. Crews on board Billie and Imagine took photos and even classified flowering plants. Having enjoyed the experience, plans were made to continue with fortnightly trips on Sundays at 9.30 to explore other parts of the island. The next skiff trip is November 1. There are plans to have a small exhibition of these photos with information on the local treasures to be found, and even a local brochure produced for interested locals and visitors. If you would like to join in, see Dennis or phone Jane 0400717140’. Pics from …
Posted Oct 18, 2020, 7:03 AM by Posts Editor
Friday Night rowing and sailingLast Friday there were three crews out – two rowing and one sailing Monty. A good time was had by all, and the drinks and nibbles afterwards were enjoyed after our exertions. Let’s do it all again this week. We need to get together a sailing email list. If you are interested send a message to the secretary – sec@lbt.org.au.
Posted Oct 18, 2020, 2:30 PM by Posts Editor
Poshing it up for Seniors afternoon teaBarbara Sharp put out the clean table cloth, the best crockery, a vase of rhododendrons, and slices and cakes from Kate Hoorweg for the Seniors Week visitors who had signed up for our special afternoon tea.
Posted Oct 18, 2020, 6:57 AM by Posts Editor
Seniors Week done and dustedOn Sunday afternoon Martin Riddle and Nell Tyson took out the last Seniors Week excursion group (pic below). We could only take a limited number of passengers due to Covid restrictions, but apart from that all went extremely well, with many positive comments from happy participants. Thanks to all who supported this activity.
Posted Oct 18, 2020, 6:05 AM by Posts Editor
Black Swan all shiny and newJohn Snowdon (and friends) have Black Swan looking a treat. They have even refurbished the plate on the transom celebrating the builders, so that we can actually read it.
Posted Oct 23, 2020, 5:02 PM by Posts Editor
New thole pins for SwiftsureWe need our thole pins to be sacrificial, so they break before the oar (or the rower) in the case of a serious crab, but that means keeping up the supply. Dennis Muscovich is on the job.
Posted Oct 14, 2020, 3:32 PM by Posts Editor
The Rowers Newsletter is no moreFor years the rowers have been spoilt with a newsletter specially for them, but Lorrie and Natalie have decided to call it a day. The question is: what to do next? Should we attempt to replicate the newsletter (which would be difficult – Lorrie and Natalie set a very high bar), or should we do something entirely different? If you have suggestions please send them in to the secretary: sec@lbt.org.au.
Posted Oct 10, 2020, 10:45 PM by Posts Editor
Dave Conway has done it againHis long wheelbase trolley has been such a hit for moving Skiffs that he offered to make a short wheelbase version for the Grebes. We of course said ‘yes please’, and being a man of action Dave had one on the shed floor almost before we had time to draw breath. Should be a great back saver. Thanks Dave.
Posted Oct 13, 2020, 2:37 AM by Posts Editor
A life on the ocean wavesIf you had come to the garage sale on Saturday you could have purchased some of those waves and dispensed with ever having to go on the ocean. They were made by Graham Rankin (and friends) as scenery for a float that participated in Christmas pageants and shows – see second pic below. If I’m not mistaken that Cap’n Graham aboard.
Posted Oct 10, 2020, 10:26 PM by Posts Editor
Murphy RulesThe monsoon on Friday coincided exactly with the working bee to erect the marquee for the garage sale. We were certainly encouraged to raise shelter in the storm in a hurry.
Posted Oct 10, 2020, 10:28 PM by Posts Editor
Changes at the Wooden Boat CentreFrom the WBC:‘After consulting with WorkSafe Tasmania, Dept of Health and our Insurer we have now put measures in place coming up to the opening of borders, effective today 09.10.20 we are asking that all visitors to the WBC, regardless of their business MUST now Enter via the FRONT DOOR – SIGN IN, and then if access to the workshop is required, you must be escorted by a staff member. There maybe occasions when access will be denied – as we have to protect our staff and students and volunteers. The other issue that has been brought up, our tools and equipment can only be used by those who have been accredited to do so, and signed off by …
Posted Oct 8, 2020, 6:37 PM by Posts Editor
Working Bee/Garage Sale Saturday October 10thSome time ago a ‘spring clean working bee/garage sale’ at the Shed was advertised in this column. Well it is still on – this coming weekend 10am to 4pm. We’ve already been digging under shelves and in lockers unearthing all sorts of ‘treasures’, and a spring clean should reveal more. We can sell them from the front lawn. Space in the shed is always at a premium, so this is a very necessary activity. If you have genuine saleable items that you wish to contribute bring them along on the day. There is also the opportunity to have your own ‘car boot’ or table for a $10 donation. There will be a sausage sizzle and a ‘mystery guitarist’ to …
Posted Oct 3, 2020, 9:54 PM by Posts Editor
The Mordialloc BanditosWhilst the absence of Covid means that we in Tasmania are able to indulge ourselves on the river we tend to forget that circumstances are more difficult elsewhere. A couple of weeks ago when the women’s crews were covering themselves with glory in the Castle to Crane event, the only way that the Mordialloc crew in Victoria could participate was on foot, masked up. Geoff Daniel has sent some pics. By the look of the final one they could be going a bit stir crazy over there.
Posted Oct 3, 2020, 9:10 PM by Posts Editor
Sundowner Row (and sail) this Friday 9th OctoberThe rowers have been organising for this first Friday of summer time, and we hope to also have Monty out on the water under sail for those who like to take it a bit easier. Bring nibbles and drinks for the social afterwards. See poster attached for details: https://tinyurl.com/y5b6yvuk
Posted Oct 3, 2020, 3:15 PM by Posts Editor
Ouch!Kate Hoorweg, our champion Monday night cook, has broken a bone in her foot: see impressive photo below. Celia Leverton is stepping in to take over from Kate and rattle the pots and pans this coming Monday, and we will be organising a new dinner roster. Watch this space. And get well Kate!
Posted Oct 2, 2020, 6:08 PM by Posts Editor
Congratulations Celia Leverton (again)Celia is one of our stars. This time she has won a Churchill fellowship: ‘The Yulgilbar Foundation Churchill Fellowship to identify regenerative farming practices to increase landscape, business and farmer health long term – US, Canada, Mexico.’ Pic from the Weekly Times
Posted Oct 3, 2020, 5:13 PM by Posts Editor
Cruise with the Wooden Boat Guild to Huonville 22nd NovemberThe calendar is filling up fast: add this date to yours. This is an annual event, usually featuring some steamboats, but also anything else that floats. We head up to Huonville for lunch, then come back to the LBT for afternoon tea. More details to follow. Nancy will be going, and if you want to book a FREE seat use the form at https://tinyurl.com/y8ebgxaw.
Posted Oct 2, 2020, 2:55 PM by Posts Editor
AWBF Parade of Sail Feb 7th 2021Roscoe Barnett and Bella Laughton-Clark write: ‘We have been throwing some exciting ideas around the AWBF office and have decided to kick off 2021 with a Parade of Sail similar to the one you all know and love. This will be done in conjunction with the Royal Hobart Regatta on Sunday 7th February. The Parade of Sail will start around 12pm (midday) from Blinking Billy Light and head around in a Northerly direction up past the Regatta Grounds to the Tasman Bridge, then around to the Eastern shore side for a finish. So join us, our local Tall Ships and all of our usual festival crew out on the water to celebrate our beautiful wooden boats, our maritime heritage …
Posted Oct 2, 2020, 2:39 PM by Posts Editor
Thank you Liz and KarenFor years we rowers have been able to simply collect our oars and equipment from the Shed then head off to the pontoon in the expectation that there will be a couple of shipshape Skiffs waiting for us to get out on the water. That expectation has been met by Liz and Karen who over all this time have been spending their Wednesdays (and more) on maintenance. They have decided it is time to hand this job on to a new team. They will be a very hard act to follow.
Posted Oct 2, 2020, 1:23 AM by Posts Editor
Rhythm of Life – Palais Theatre, Sunday 11 October 2.30pmBarbara Dawson writes:‘Tasmanian Song Company invites you to their “Rhythm of Life” choral concert, showcasing a variety of songs that embrace all aspects of life, reflecting the ups and downs that 2020 has brought us all. The program will include favourites such as, As Time Goes By, I Can See Clearly Now, Billy Joel’s Lullaby and the upbeat Rhythm of LifeAdults $15, children $10Pre-purchase tickets at www.trybooking.com/BLGNR’
Posted Oct 2, 2020, 1:08 AM by Posts Editor
Garage Sale Saturday 10th OctoberThere will be a garage sale at the Palais 9am – 2pm and we plan to hold one on the same day at the LBT.
Posted Sep 30, 2020, 10:04 PM by Posts Editor
Seniors Week (12-17 October)This is a big opportunity for the LBT. Nancy is ideal for getting seniors out on the water, and they (we?) love it. The advertisement in the COTA Newsletter reads as follows.‘Cruise the Huon river aboard the historic motor launch ‘Nancy’. Explore the Egg Islands and the picturesque rural land around Franklin. The Nancy has good all-weather shelter and a few steps to get on board (but no wheelchair access). Passenger numbers (normally 12) may be limited by Covid restrictions. Tours may be postponed if conditions are extreme.’The dates are:Monday 12th October 1:00pm–2:30; Tuesday 13th October 1:00pm–2:30pm; Wednesday 14th October 1:00pm–2:30pm; Thursday 15th October 1:00pm–2 …
Posted Sep 23, 2020, 9:49 PM by Posts Editor
President’s 2020 ReportVery much worth a read: https://tinyurl.com/y32sxg7g
Posted Sep 23, 2020, 2:07 PM by Posts Editor
Congratulations to Castle to Crane CrewsIn a previous post we reported admiringly (and somewhat enviously) that the Women’s Open and 50+ teams had posted times of around 53 minutes in the 8km Castle to Crane international open boat rowing time trial. The results are now in, and the reported times were good enough to WIN THOSE DIVISIONS. We are now doubly envious. Congratulations to all involved (see their pictures below). This is a huge result.Pics supplied by Lorrie HarrisonMeanwhile, for another perspective on the event, LBT member Sally Ward reports from Scotland.‘Congratulations to all the crews who took up the Castle To Crane 5 mile/8km challenge on 19th September. You were in my thoughts – and the LBT shirt was on …
Posted Sep 21, 2020, 3:03 PM by Posts Editor
Castle to Crane Home Water EditionLorrie Harrison writes:’You may have noticed 3 dedicated St Ayles crews training on the grueling 8km course, starting at the LBT and turning at the red marker just past Braeside. It is one hour of hard rowing, long strong strokes and no stopping for a rest or floating back with the tide. The Castle to Crane race comes to us from Glasgow, where it has been part of the Clydebuilt Festival for the last 4 years. Covid has forced the organisers to think outside the box. So this year every fixed seat rowing club in the World was invited to participate via an app on their phone that would record distance and time. In communities where covid restrictions …
Posted Sep 20, 2020, 1:26 AM by Posts Editor
A new committeePeter Laidlaw’s presidential address alone was worth the price of admission to the AGM on Saturday night, but it was only one of the highlights. Mixed with other excitements was the election of a new committee. Here it is.President: Peter LaidlawTreasurer: Rod MacfarlanSecretary: Richard ForsterGeneral Members: Jane Johnson; Endra O’May; Michelle Crawford; Mike Hewitt; Tom Stevens; Martin Riddle; Andrew Ritchie; Paul Woodcock.
Posted Sep 20, 2020, 12:59 AM by Posts Editor
Castle to Crane Five Miles From HomeThe race is THIS SATURDAY 19th. We now have 3 crews!!! I know you all want to be standing along the bank cheering loudly, taking photos and joining us for a post race coffee at Franks. You’re all invited. Crews Racing: 8am Castle Forbes Bay; 9am The 5 Mile Crew; 4:00pm Huon 5-O.The race will start and finish about the LBT shed. World wide over 100 crews have entered this 5 mile race. The only other Australian team is Mordiallac, who are still under strict Covid restrictions and not permitted to row. So they are in the alternative event. Walking 5 miles along a beach, each person maintaining the 1.5m distance. Mordy has managed to …
Posted Sep 18, 2020, 6:37 PM by Posts Editor
Monday afternoonsThe team are making steady progress working on our fleet – sealing seams, installing a keel, fixing a mast bracket, building a new rudder and more. See pics below. Come and join in the fun from 3pm before dinner.
Posted Sep 17, 2020, 2:13 PM by Posts Editor
On the Water Program 2020As all those who have been involved know, one of the best things the Living Boat Trust does is the On the Water Program for primary school students. For many of the children it is a first opportunity to be in a boat. Many start out very timorous, but by the end of the program are confident and ready to take responsibility and take charge. One of the reasons is that our Grebes are ideal for this introduction. To find out more see the program overview at https://tinyurl.com/y42etqysIn order to make it happen we need LBT members as skippers and safety boat drivers. We have delayed organising this program because of the ‘you know what’, but …
Posted Sep 13, 2020, 4:01 PM by Posts Editor
Nominations for LBT 2020-21 CommitteeThe following nominations have been received.Peter Laidlaw (president); . Rod Macfarlan (treasurer); Richard Forster (secretary). General Committee:Jane Johnson; Endra O’May; Michelle Crawford; Mike Hewitt; Tom Stevens; Martin Riddle; Andrew Ritchie; David Pittaway; Paul Woodcock. As there are 12 nominations and only 11 positions on committee there will be an election at the AGM.
Posted Sep 13, 2020, 3:33 PM by Posts Editor
Opening your computer – how not to be afraidDavid Moore writes:Like everyone I am having to reinvent how I work and make a living. To this end I am running my first workshop out of my home office in Franklin: ‘Opening your computer – how not to be afraid‘. Bookings and info’ here: https://www.trybooking.com/book/event?eid=657942 and here:https://www.ihatemypc.com.au/workshops
Posted Sep 12, 2020, 2:38 AM by Posts Editor
Sept 19th: AGM and Quiz nightA reminder that the LBT AGM starts at 6pm Saturday 19th September in the Palais supper room, 3388 Huon Hwy Franklin. Lots of parking opposite around the oval. All the relevant documents can be found at https://tinyurl.com/y5lb6vhl. And directly after at 7pm we will be moving downstairs to join the Palais quiz night. A list of tables and those on them is shown below. Looks like we are one short on one table: contact the secretary sec@lbt.org.au and he will auction it off. Barb Dawson sent the following reminders.1) Palais doors will open from 6.30; quiz starts at 7pm – pay $5 on the night. 2) BYO snacks/nibbles but not BYO drinks …
Posted Sep 12, 2020, 2:42 AM by Posts Editor
An historic rowing destinationA few hundred metres downstream from the Egg Island canal entrance on the Cradoc side of the river is the old Rowe family farm Orchardlea. The Rowes were heavily involved in the shipping trade, and the remains of two of their boats are still there. ‘Skipjack’ was built as a ketch in Franklin in 1861, and later converted to steam. All that remains visible of her is the stem, poking up out of the river. Behind her in the picture below is Taruna, propped on the bank. In her heyday Taruna was a very sleek ferry, see the pic from Graham Broxham’s book ‘Those that survive’ below. Pics from Dennis Muscovich and Endra O’May
Posted Sep 10, 2020, 6:51 PM by Posts Editor
Huon Yacht Club opening day October 3rdTom Stevens writes:‘The Huon Yacht Club would like to invite members of the Living Boat Trust along to our Club Open Day and Sail Past Sat 3rd Oct to officially open the new Sailing season. Additionally if any of the LBT fleet of Sail or Rowing boats would be able to participate in the Sail Past at 12:30pm you would be most welcome. We have enjoyed many visits in the past from the LBT and would like to encourage further participation in this and other boating events between the organisations. Please see attached Flyer for distribution. For Catering and COVID planning Pease request your members attending to notify our Rear Commodore, Suzannah Arkle on rear.commodore@huonyachtclub …
Posted Sep 10, 2020, 4:23 AM by Posts Editor
Nominations for LBT CommitteeAccording to the constitution nominations for positions on the committee need to be received at least 10 days before the AGM. Get yours in NOW. There are paper forms at the Shed, or download one from https://tinyurl.com/y5lb6vhl, where you will find all the documents relating to the AGM.
Posted Sep 6, 2020, 2:37 PM by Posts Editor
FWWA/Wooden Boat Centre AGMAll financial members are warmly invited to the ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING of the Franklin Working Waterfront Association (FWWA) owners and operators of Wooden Boat Centre, Sunday 27th of September at 3pm at the Wooden Boat Centre(3333 Huon Highway, Franklin Tasmania). Afternoon tea will be provided after the AGM. If you are passionate about the Wooden Boat Centre and would like to nominate for a position on the FWWA Committee please fill out the attached form and return to the Wooden Boat Centre or email it back to committee@woodenboatcentre.com . Please note you must be a financial member to attend, vote & nominate at an AGM. Membership can be paid on the day. AGM’s are a great opportunity to …
Posted Sep 4, 2020, 6:19 AM by Posts Editor
Oselvar – a traditional Norwegian boatThe Oselvar is a hand-crafted Norwegian boat built in a tradition that has endured for almost 2,000 years. Valued for their rowing and sailing capabilities and now also for leasure, they were not only used on the Norwegian west coast but also traded for some hundreds of years as far afield as Shetland, Orkney and Scotland. If interested there is further reading available in the article “The Oselvar Boatyard” , in an interview with Åsmund Lien, the manager of Norway’s Oselvarverkstaden, or the Oselvar workshop, and in this article “The Oselvar from Norway”.Here is a video describing the Oselvar and its construction. (from the Oselvarverkstaden website; https://www.oselvarverkstaden.no)
Posted Sep 4, 2020, 12:05 AM by Posts Editor
Living on the WaterMost of us who hang around the Shed aspire to get on the water as much as possible, but actually living there another matter. Beth from ‘Bella Luna’, which is tied up to the Wooden Boat Centre Wharf, writes a terrific blog about what is involved: ‘Life aboard a catamaran – while trying to build a very small house with no money‘. Catch it at https://www.bellalunaboat.com/ Pic from Beth
Posted Sep 3, 2020, 9:49 PM by Posts Editor
Visit to the Shed by Nick Street Monday September 8th, 10amNick is one of our Liberal members of parliament, and he is doing the rounds to meet the local communities. If you would like to participate in this meeting please email the secretary: sec@lbt.org.au.
Posted Sep 2, 2020, 6:17 PM by Posts Editor
Start of a project boat?Hans Sipsma was considering it, but he probably needs more than the remnants shown in the pics below to make a start. They were found washed up on the wild west coast near Marawah. Once upon a time this place was a ‘culinary capital’. You’d collect your shellfish from the nearby rock gutters, take them up to the dugout on the nearest midden for a bit of shelter, light a fire and sit back and eat, chucking the remains over your shoulder to add to the construction. Judging from the size of the middens it was a very popular thing to do for a very long time. It is a place to pause and reflect on the past. Pics …
Posted Aug 30, 2020, 8:22 PM by Posts Editor
News from a Scottish memberSally Ward writes:‘We have finally got the the go ahead from the Scottish Coastal Rowing Association to get back out on the water – wahay! But although I may not have been able to row for the last five months, I’ve made good use of my LBT Shirt which has proved to be great for cycling too – I like to be visible!’
Posted Aug 30, 2020, 3:02 PM by Posts Editor
A Norwegian Raid – Den Store Roen 2020Imagine you have found a really interesting video of a foreign raid, but alas you do not speak the language. What to do? And then you watch and realise there is a common tongue. We all speak “Raid, Row and Adventure!”Report from Den Store Roen 2020 – a family-friendly rowing trip that starts at the Horda Museum and went through narrow straits to Hjellestad and south to the Lysefjord.>>Click here to go there<<
Posted Aug 29, 2020, 4:16 AM by Posts Editor
News from the Spring Bay Community Boat Shed“I believe it is called ‘resuming after a spell’ in some circles – for us it is time we were getting out there again!This information sheet covers August and September unless another newssheet is required.Happy Days and safe boating ; keep well in these strange times.David and The SBCBS Crew.”>>Download the newsletter<<
Posted Aug 26, 2020, 7:27 PM by Posts Editor
In the Boat Shed, Gavin Atkins blogKevin Robson reminded us of Gavin Atkin’s weblog, which to quote Gavin is ” for the sort of people who like looking inside boat sheds.”It’s about old boats, traditional boats, boat building, restoration, the sea and the North Kent Coast UK.It is indeed an eclectic commentary about boats and things boaty and an entertaining read. As well as being a musician and author, Gavin also offers free boat plans on his website.If this strikes your fancy check it out at https://intheboatshed.net/
Posted Aug 26, 2020, 3:48 AM by Posts Editor
Capricornia prepped for paintOne of the many LBT activities; here’s a few of the team scraping and sanding Capricornia on Monday afternoon.
Posted Aug 25, 2020, 6:47 PM by Posts Editor
COVID Quiz Night – Palais Theatre, Saturday 19 September, 7pmCalling all quiz enthusiasts – a night of fun, friendly competition and creativity. David Pittaway has agreed to be our quizmaster for this Palais fundraising event, starting at 7pm (doors open 6.45) after the LBT AGM. There will be a COVID inspired hat competition – be in to win ‘best COVID themed headgear’ on the night. This event is proving to be very popular so book SOON – first come first served. The Palais have kindly reserved some tables for us, but they cannot hold them for too long. There will be a booking sheet in the Shed. Alternatively do it online: check who has already booked on the list at https://tinyurl.com/y3blwhaz and add your name using the form …
Posted Aug 30, 2020, 3:53 PM by Posts Editor
Hot Potato night Saturday 29th August, at the Yacht ClubHi LBT,We are having a Hot Potato night next Saturday at the Yacht Club and we would like to invite along the members of LBT to join us.Anyone wishing to attend lets me know either by email (rear.commodore@huonyachtclub.org) or phone (0413503483) so we know how many we are catering for!Many thanks,Suzannah (Arkle)Rear Commodore Huon Yacht Club(Contact details are n the flyer)
Posted Aug 25, 2020, 5:34 PM by Posts Editor
MOVIE NIGHT AT THE PALAIS: ‘SPIRITED AWAY’Sunday 6 SeptemberSpirited Away is a Japanese animated movie, which still holds the record as the most successful film in that country, beating Titanic at the box office when it was released in 2001. In the same year it won the Oscar for the best Animated Film, and in 2002 it won the Golden Bear at the Berlin International Film Festival. Since then Spirited Away has received universal acclaim and is frequently ranked among the greatest animated films ever made.Door opens 6.30, bar availableMovie starts after 7.15 but before 7.30.BYO nibbles/snacksMandated COVID safe protocols will be in place.
Posted Aug 25, 2020, 4:07 AM by Posts Editor
Return of the Sundowner RowJust over a month to daylight saving! Friday 9 October will mark the return of our evening row and a great way to start the weekend. It has been suggested we start at 5:30 to make it a bit easier for the workers among us to get down to the LBT and get sorted into crews.We have already had enquiries from new rowers so all 3 skiffs could be on the water each Friday night, maybe Swiftsure will also find a crew.
Posted Aug 22, 2020, 7:24 PM by Posts Editor
Castle to Crane Home Waters EditionThe LBT have two crews training for this 5 mile race to be held on our home water, The Huon River, on the weekend of the 19 September. In a pre Covid world this race has been held in Glasgow, but this year it is open to any club and any fixed seat rowers.Both crews have been training hard and have easily cracked the under 1 hour time.Any other crew like to join us? Crews are registered individually. For more info go to : https://scottishcoastalrowing.org/2020/06/28/castle-to-crane-2020-join-us-from-your-home-waters/https://www.clydebuiltfestival.com/castle-to-crane-five-miles-from-home
Posted Aug 22, 2020, 6:48 PM by Posts Editor
2,500 postsIf you scroll to the bottom of the LBT news column you will see that we have just ticked over 2,500 posts. What an active little place we are.
Posted Aug 21, 2020, 3:09 PM by Posts Editor
Seniors Week: 12th-18thCOTA are finalising the program for Seniors Week, which includes excursions on Nancy. ‘Cruise the Huon river aboard the historic motor launch ‘Nancy’. Explore the Egg Islands and the picturesque rural land around Franklin. The Nancy has good all-weather shelter and a few steps to get on board (but no wheelchair access). Passenger numbers (normally 12) may be limited by Covid restrictions. Tours may be postponed if conditions are extreme.’ Our skippers are standing by but we could do with some more helpers: deckhands and shore support. If you can help out please respond by contacting the secretary: sec@lbt.org.au. Here is an opportunity to get out on the river and meet some great people.
Posted Aug 21, 2020, 3:00 PM by Posts Editor
Boats in the ShedGraham Wright sent pics of two of the boats currently being tended to: Capricornia and Viking.
Posted Aug 21, 2020, 2:45 PM by Posts Editor
WOW in winterThey breed ’em tough on the Huon. Pic from David Nash
Posted Aug 21, 2020, 2:33 PM by Posts Editor
Draft Minutes for LBT Committee August MeetingThese minutes can be viewed at https://tinyurl.com/y3ju69ev. This is the last meeting for the current committee. See you all at the AGM, September 19th, Palais supper room!
Posted Aug 21, 2020, 2:24 PM by Posts Editor
February 2021 RegattaThe world is topsy turvy and the Wooden Boat Festival has been cancelled, but we are still planning for a Skiff regatta on February 13-14 next year. A suggested program is shown below, but at this stage all options are open. We need a group to organise this: if you can help contact Jane Johnson jenjane2000@hotmail.com, 0400 717 140.The Franklin St Ayles Skiff Regatta – Program 2021Proposed Course Rowing Ways, South 500m turn to starboard, Rowing WaysFriday February 12, 2021 PracticesSaturday February 13, 2021 best time, no finalsLong row race, Opening Ceremony, Huonville or Port Huon to Franklin 4pm Parade and Oar Salute 5pm Welcome BBQ LBTSunday February 14, 2021, Race Day …
Posted Aug 15, 2020, 8:24 PM by Posts Editor
LBT Committee Meeting Thursday 20th AugustAn agenda for this meeting is being prepared at https://tinyurl.com/y3furk98. Draft Minutes for the last meeting can be viewed at https://tinyurl.com/yxbf3gs7.
Posted Aug 14, 2020, 3:43 PM by Posts Editor
Call for nominations for the LBT CommitteeOne of the major tasks for the AGM to be held on September the 19th is to elect a committee for 2020-21. Nomination forms have been printed and can be collected from the LBT shed. Alternatively download and print one from https://tinyurl.com/y5lb6vhlBoth nominators and nominatees need to be financial members, so get that sorted out first (or at the same time) if it is an issue. For details about membership payments see https://tinyurl.com/ydh6euo3We on the current committee (see list at http://lbt.rforster.org/about-us/committee) strongly encourage every member to consider nominating. All committees needs a periodic infusion of new ideas, new expertise and new enthusiasm. The Trust is …
Posted Aug 14, 2020, 8:25 PM by Posts Editor
Calling all LBT nerdsThe LBT website is built on a product called Google Sites (classic). Last week we received an announcement from Google which reads (in part): Starting December 2021 – When users try to visit a classic Site, they will no longer see the website content. Any remaining classic Sites will automatically be: downloaded as an archive; and replaced with a draft in the new Sites experience for site owners to review and publish. For us that means that lbt.org.au and the weekly newsletter which is based on it go away. The ‘new Sites’ mentioned lacks many features which we currently use and feel we need. There is a strong possibility that we will have to migrate to another platform, assuming …
Posted Aug 15, 2020, 5:50 PM by Posts Editor
Nancy and Rowan on dutyon a misty Tuesday morning when the thermometer was trying to nudge above 1 degree, Brian Pain and Brian Marriott aboard Nancy and Mike Dredge on Rowan ferried the Tasmanian Land Conservancy crew up to North Egg Island for their first weeding day of the season. We hope they thawed out when they got ashore.
Posted Aug 10, 2020, 7:45 PM by Posts Editor
DeckeeGary Macdonald pointed us to this free, community based app for sailors, https://deckee.com/ , which can also be run from your web browser. ‘Stay safe and informed on the water, with help from fellow boaters Crowdsourced reports, weather conditions, vessel positions and safety alerts.’ And it is endorsed by MAST.
Posted Aug 9, 2020, 3:31 PM by Posts Editor
Pontoon is backCap’n O’May scanned to horizon for danger, whilst Cap’n Laidlaw (assisted by first mate Bonny) took charge of the pontoon, and soon enough order was restored.
Posted Aug 8, 2020, 7:56 PM by Posts Editor
Project boat column: Telita needs new homeTelita is a sister boat to ‘Nancy’ and ‘Eva Blanche’. From the Facebook page (https://www.facebook.com/392859364179458/posts/2004956569636388/): ‘TELITA will be given away to the person or organisation provided they are prepared to preserve or restore her for future generations! For more information please contact the owner Dirk Lorenzen. Phone 0425 277415 or Email. flyingp@bigpond.com’ She is currently tied up at Strahan. Tom Stevens thinks ‘this would be a great restoration project for the Franklin Community to take on‘. Have a look and see what you think. Pic from https://www.facebook.com/392859364179458/posts/2004956569636388/
Posted Aug 8, 2020, 6:27 PM by Posts Editor
Pontoon gone for a wanderDennis Muscovich turned up for duty at the Wooden Boat Centre on Monday to discover that the pontoon normally secured to their dock had been set loose and was tied up to the dinghy shed. It was put back in place and re-roped, but worryingly it was untied again and this time ended up in south Franklin where Hayden Abbott rescued it. If anybody knows what is going on please let us know (sec@lbt.org.au).
Posted Aug 2, 2020, 3:20 PM by Posts Editor
Come and help the TLCThe TLC in question is the Tasmanian Land Conservancy, and they need assistance to render some Tender Loving Care to the Egg Islands. Specifically they need people with motor boat licenses to transport their volunteers on August 11-12, 28-30. If you think you can help out please add your name to the list below by entering your details through the form at https://tinyurl.com/yxq2hrv9 . It should be fun!To find out more about the Conservancy and the Egg Islands see https://tasland.org.au/reserves/egg-islands-reserve/ There is a nice video at https://vimeo.com/291638189
Posted Jul 29, 2020, 6:23 PM by Posts Editor
Boats MondayThe boat working group got underway on Monday afternoon. A job list for Capricornia was compiled (see below) and a good start made. Come and join us at 3pm and help us get the fleet shipshape and learn a few skills along the way.
Posted Jul 29, 2020, 6:04 PM by Posts Editor
LBT AGM September 19thAt the July committee meeting it was decided that the 2020 AGM should be held on September 19th at 6pm, subject of course to Covid restrictions allowing this. All the related documents can be found online in the 2020 AGM folder which is accessible by clicking on the ‘Resources’ tab at the top of the homepage, or directly at https://tinyurl.com/y3prvbjs . These include a draft agenda and a committee member nomination form.
Posted Jul 26, 2020, 5:03 PM by Posts Editor
Tawe Nunnugah – is it on?Events in Victoria and recent announcements by Peter Gutwin (Premier of Tasmania for those who are elsewhere) have had people asking where we stand with Tawe Nunnugah. This was a topic of discussion at the recent Committee meeting, and the answer is that we are enthusiastic to go ahead, but with the expectation that we will have to be very flexible. It may end up being a Tasmanian event only, or at the opposite extreme all our international friends may be able to come along. We have after all been through something similar, with the 2019 Tawe Nunnugah being severely impacted by bushfires. We were still able to have a lot of fun on that occasion, and to come to …
Posted Jul 26, 2020, 3:52 PM by Posts Editor
Working on Boats group starting Monday July 27thCome along at 3pm to help get our boats ready for the new season. Piet Lunstedt brought the big trailer over last week and Capricornia was hauled out and under the verandah. She has been cleaned out and Endra O’May has applied the first coat of oil to the mast, so work has already begun. There are lots more boats awaiting similar attention. It should be fun!
Posted Jul 26, 2020, 3:05 PM by Posts Editor
AED newsIt was recently reported in this column that Deb van Velsen had organised for a defibrillator (AED) to be located at the LBT. Deb writes: ‘The LBT was successful in getting a grant from the Huon Valley Council for a protective carry case for the AED, when the LBT or other groups take it away for trips or events. The first session on the using AED was with the Tuesday Group who asked great questions. Online training including 2 short videos is at: https://rise.articulate.com/share/5hbr-vgXfKPJYy1L2bskjoNaZunfQ30S#/ The information card below has been added to the AED bag, along with a pencil.If the AED is used, please follow the instructions on the card, answer the questions …
Posted Jul 22, 2020, 6:31 PM by Posts Editor
Latest news from the AWBFSee https://tinyurl.com/yyqk9obl. Catch an interview with Andy Gamlin, and it looks like Mark, Zoe and Daisy aren’t the only family team building a stitch and glue (call in at the Shed to see the progress they have made). Pic from australianwoodenboatfestival.com.au
Posted Jul 19, 2020, 3:37 PM by Posts Editor
Courses at the Wooden Boat FestivalOur Wooden Boat Centre is running courses in oar making, skin on frame kayak building, and skin on frame Whitehall building. See http://www.woodenboatcentre.com/wbf . We particularly like the Whitehall – a dinghy almost the size of Grebe that weighs 27kg. And the even better news is that whilst you need to book now there is time to save up!Pic from http://gentrycustomboats.com/Whitehallpage.html
Posted Jul 19, 2020, 3:26 PM by Posts Editor
Easy rowingLast week Freyja was spotted sliding quietly down river – under sail. That’s the way to do it.
Posted Jul 19, 2020, 3:00 AM by Posts Editor
Vale Dick GeevesWe have received word that old friend of the LBT Dr Dick Geeves has died. As soon as we know more about memorial services or any other related events we will pass them on.Dick was a larger than life character and there is a fund of Dick stories. His last big project with us was the flagpole, which he brought from the scout headquarters at the Lea, restored, and organised to have erected outside the front of the shed. Not bad for a bloke in his nineties.
Posted Jul 19, 2020, 2:41 AM by Posts Editor
LBT Committee Meeting Thursday 16th JulyAn agenda for this meeting is being prepared at https://tinyurl.com/yb3kd63o . See the minutes for the June meeting at https://tinyurl.com/ybht7zzc . If there is something you wish to see addressed contact the secretary: sec@lbt.org.au.
Posted Jul 12, 2020, 3:30 AM by Posts Editor
Skiff Launch in W.A.Those with a really bad case of Covid induced cabin fever may want to consider a trip to Augusta in southern Western Australia to relieve the symptoms – you can’t get much further away from Tasmania than that at the moment. Jane Johnson tells us that they will be launching a pair of Skiffs there on September 27. ‘It will be a great occasion given the delay due to Covid restrictions. All will be welcome at the launch and Augusta is beautiful. Contact Jane for further details 0400717140’ They are (spray) painting at the moment – see the Facebook page for this and more details: https://www.facebook.com/AugustaYachtClub/ .
Posted Jul 12, 2020, 3:20 AM by Posts Editor
Improving the GrebesEd Wykeman was sick of the rigging falling down and snagging around the base of the mast when sailing Huon Explorer, so he has added a collar to prevent this happening. If it is a success we can do this with the other boats. Thanks Ed. Pic from Ed Wykeman
Posted Jul 9, 2020, 4:17 PM by Posts Editor
Skiffs on the waterAs soon as the anti-foul had dried (thanks Karen) ‘Imagine’ was launched on Tuesday to join Freya for an inaugural row for the winter season up around North Egg Island. And on Thursday she was out again to take advantage of the sunny afternoon and join a pod of dolphins in the channel between the islands. Pics from Jenny Blackburn and Endra O’May.
Posted Jul 9, 2020, 4:19 PM by Posts Editor
People of the SeaGary Macdonald pointed us to this upcoming publication from James Wharram, the designer and sailer of Polynesian inspired catamarans. ‘Inspired by the lifetime of creativity and discovery James describes in this book, many modern People of the Sea are sailing the world’s oceans, seas, coasts and rivers in craft they have built for themselves to James Wharram designs.’ See https://lodestarbooks.com/product/people-of-the-sea/
Posted Jul 5, 2020, 3:19 PM by Posts Editor
Take on Tassie takes on YukonTourism Tasmania have made a series of short promotional films to encourage intrastate tourism, and one of them features ‘Yukon’. Watch it at https://www.facebook.com/takeontassie/videos/565029507716396 . There is lots more about Yukon on their web page https://yukon-tours.com.au/ and Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/yukontours/
Posted Jul 2, 2020, 3:49 AM by Posts Editor
Wooden Boat Festival NewsFor the latest from the festival see https://mailchi.mp/australianwoodenboatfestival/festival-on-the-horizon?e=29b9f360bf
Posted Jul 2, 2020, 5:13 AM by Posts Editor
Keeping the LBT beautifulThank you Landcare for tending to the ‘native plants belt’ which provides an eye pleasing and effective border to the car park. From their Facebook page:‘Today a few intrepid Landcarers braved the freezing foggy conditions to do a bit of maintenance on the LBT mound that we planted up in 2017. It has really matured nicely with the grasses and prostrate natives merging to make an attractive ground cover. The wattle is Acacia genistifolia prostrate form and the correa is C. backhouseana. We thawed by having coffee looking out at the marina and admiring the new rock wall.’For more about Franklin Landcare see https://www.facebook.com/Franklin-Landcare-1658104061146107/?ref=page_internal
Posted Jul 1, 2020, 3:58 PM by Posts Editor
Skiffs: why row ’em?Sally Ward from Scotland, who spent last summer with us building boats and getting on the water, sent us a link to this nice video with an explanation for the question posed above: https://eden-court.co.uk/inverness-film-festival-online/with-the-rising-tide .
Posted Jun 28, 2020, 3:15 PM by Posts Editor
Restrictions on rowing Skiffs liftedJane Johnson from the Rowing Subcommittee writes (on June 28th): ‘Covid restrictions have been lifted so full crews are allowed on Grebes and Skiffs. Have fun out on the water! Please ensure that other preventative measures are followed such as handwashing and coughing/sneezing etiquette.’
Posted Jun 28, 2020, 3:01 PM by Posts Editor
Improving Tasmania’s health and wellbeingThe Tasmanian Government recently announced that ‘a total of $2 million will be available for community organisations and local governments to help improve the health and well being of their communities’. See https://tinyurl.com/y97wqhne for details. In the past the LBT has successfully used similar grants to fund relevant programs, and we could do so again in the future. If members see an opportunity for the LBT here and wish to be involved please contact the secretary: sec@lbt.org.au.
Posted Jun 28, 2020, 2:45 PM by Posts Editor
2020-21 Membership DuesThe bad news is that LBT memberships lapse at the end of the financial year (June 30th) and that members will shortly be receiving reminders to pay for renewal. The good news is that the cost remains the same as it has been for a number of years now: $70Au family, $40Au individual and $125Au corporate.There are a number of ways of making a payment (make sure there is sufficient information included to identify you). * Cheque sent to 3337 Huon Hwy Franklin Tasmania 7113 * By Electronic Funds Transfer (EFT) using your online bank account: BENDIGO BANK HUONVILLE BRANCH BSB 633-000 AC 149496275 LIVING BOAT TRUST * In an envelope deposited into the money box slot by the main door
Posted Jun 28, 2020, 2:49 PM by Posts Editor
LBT shed has a Mobile ‘Defib’ machine (AED)AED stands for Automated External Defibrillator, and it is a good thing for a demographic which is getting too old, exercising (on and off) too hard and (for some of us at least) losing neurons too fast. It is a ‘smart machine’ and does most of the brain work involved in getting a failing heart going again as well as supplying the necessary jolt. Deb van Velsen writes: ‘Recently the LBT was successful in receiving an AED and cabinet from the Ambulance Tasmania Community Defibrillator Fund. The AED and cabinet have been installed by the Tuesday Group in an easy to see place by the toilet door. We encourage all LBT members (and anyone else) to do a short online …
Posted Jun 28, 2020, 2:01 PM by Posts Editor
Mistral IIOur president (‘The Great Rudder’) Peter Laidlaw has been leading a team restoring the historic yacht Mistral II in Constitution Dock. Of course the teamwork largely ended a couple of months ago, but Pete has been keeping at it and has the transom out for repair – see pics from Endra O’May below. For more about the boat see https://www.windewardbound.com.au/mistral .
Posted Jun 21, 2020, 4:52 PM by Posts Editor
Wooden Boat Centre opening July 1stIn another sign of the improving times, the Wooden Boat Centre have announced that they will be opening up for tours from July 1st. It has been a hive of activity over there during the shutdown, with the students working on various boats. The most impressive is a large strip planked ‘Franklin 29’ motor launch – pics below. Pics from WBC Facebook page
Posted Jun 21, 2020, 3:39 PM by Posts Editor
Julie Burgess to stay in DevonportGraeme Norris keeps us up to date with goings on on the North Coast, and he reports that the ‘Julie Burgess’ will stay in Devonport. From the Advocate: ‘The council voted seven to one at Monday’s meeting to hand over the ship’s operation to the Julie Burgess Working Committee and negotiate an agreement for the transfer of the vessel on the basis the council provides financial assistance of $50,000 for the first year, and $40,000 pa after that for five years. The council will also build a concrete slab suitable for a shipping container in Reg Hope Park with power to the site to provide a base for the not-for-profit operator and grant a …
Posted Jun 21, 2020, 3:11 PM by Posts Editor
Boat building in IndonesiaMike Dredge writes: ‘Some years ago I was involved in ashort aid project in Madura, an island to the east of Java. Theconcept was to teach the local fisheries management team how to bestmanage their local resources. Given that: a) the area they managed coveredabout 2000 nautical miles and contained a fleet of wellover 2000 boats; b) the fisheries management teamexpected me to show them how to catch more fish from this tiny,crowded pond by using up-to-date technology and, c) my background and training hasalways been about managing sustainable fisheries and fishing forprofit whereas the locals fish for protein and kept everything theycaught, down to about 10 …
Posted Jun 21, 2020, 3:43 PM by Posts Editor
LBT Committee Meeting this coming Thursday 18th JuneFind the agenda at https://tinyurl.com/y9gvekqc . If you want something addressed send details to the secretary, sec@lbt.org.au. Find the minutes for the last meeting at https://tinyurl.com/yb2bovhx.
Posted Jun 14, 2020, 3:51 PM by Posts Editor
Rowing Policy at the LBT, as at June 13thJane Johnson and Mike Hewitt write (on behalf of the committee): ‘In June 2020, COVID restrictions are being lifted, however some remain in place until further notice: Rowing of Grebes is permitted as long as a 1.5m distance is kept between all people on board, a cox and a rower in bow seat would meet these requirements. The exception to this is a group of people from one household e.g. a family, may row together. Rowing of Skiffs is allowed with a cox and a rower in bow and three – i.e. 3 people on board. The Netherlands skiffs have continued rowing with 3 crew members as above. We would encourage everyone to get out rowing on the …
Posted Jun 14, 2020, 3:30 PM by Posts Editor
Sailing St Ayles Skiffs in WAJohn Longley sent the attached pics. He writes:‘A couple of pics showing our rigs. The top one is Dotsie with the full sail. The second is Ripple with one reef and in the background Dotsie with the second reef in. The sails and spars all pack into a long bag that we lash out of the way down one side of the skiff when we are rowing. The mast is unstayed and the rig is a simple Sprit rig.’He tells us that they can have everything down and be rowing within a couple of minutes. A couple of years ago they attempted to sail, in a yawl, the route up the Swan River taken by James Stirling the …
Posted Jun 14, 2020, 3:11 PM by Posts Editor
Tuesday group back on the jobThe Tuesday group has been back for a couple of weeks now, doing the regular jobs (Nancy maintenance) and the irregular (who knows what will turn up) with Graham Wright’s pictures to tell us what has been happening. The new defibrillator has been installed facing the main door and beside the bathroom.Karen has removed the flaking antifoul from Imagine in preparation for a new coat.Mark is getting the grounds back under control.
Posted Jun 9, 2020, 2:44 AM by Posts Editor
All spaced out at Monday night dinnerEndra did the cleaning, Kate did the cooking, and the rest of us did the eating. It was a good night. May there be many more. Pic from Endra O’May
Posted Jun 8, 2020, 6:23 PM by Posts Editor
Council approves foreshore redevelopment planOn May 27th the council resolved the following. The Report on the Community Engagement Summary Report on the Draft Franklin Foreshore Rehabilitation and Development Plan be received and noted. The Draft Revised Franklin Foreshore Rehabilitation and Development Plan Attachment C is adopted for implementation subject to a Deed of Variation from the Grant Funding Body. Subject to final approval from the funding body Council undertakes further engagement with the key stakeholders on the final designs and implementation of the Public Toilet, landscaping, and interpretive history signage. The minutes with further details and discussion about this item are attached: https://tinyurl.com/yavy2uac. These minutes refer to attachments, which are available at https://drive.google.com/file/d/13dDxVQAmfrOVc2KIgOoF9c3MlHhM_GeM/view …
Posted Jun 8, 2020, 6:08 PM by Posts Editor
QuestA while back an advertisement seeking a new home for the vintage model sailing yacht Quest was placed in this column: https://tinyurl.com/y7ln3ytc . Jos Verbaken took up the restoration challenge and writes:‘I have registered to display the quest at WBF 2020. Work is well underway and I hope to be able to arrange a visit to Franklin, in particular I would like some help in identifying the various timbers. The hull and deck planking seems to be Huon pine, not sure about the keel, deck beams and transom.I have made a cradle and fibreglass mold to hold the hull in shape while I work on it.’ Pics from Jos below.
Posted Jun 7, 2020, 3:50 PM by Posts Editor
Covid 19 PolicyThe LBT recently completed the Government policy template, which can be viewed at https://tinyurl.com/yawwdhh7 or in the folder on the shelving with our other documents.
Posted Jun 7, 2020, 5:05 AM by Posts Editor
A new boat build at the LBTIt seems only a yesterday that Zoe, Daisy and Mark Adams were marking up the plywood to make a Duo Dinghy, but that can’t be right – yesterday Daisy was all set to cut the almost completed boat into it’s two nesting parts. Pics below. Back in March the Adams family suddenly found that their visit to Franklin aboard their cruising catamaran Bella Luna was to be significantly extended, and that it was a good time for projects such as this one. Zoe is also making wooden pendants (on sale at the post office), and her mother Beth is making wooden crochet hooks. Further pics below. We will be seeing more of the family. They have bought the block …
Posted Jun 8, 2020, 6:25 PM by Posts Editor
Monday night dinner is back: June 8thThe Tasmanian Government has brought forward opening up and so have we. Paul Frost has put the requisit signage up, Kate Horweg has plans for managing the kitchen with a maximum of 2 helpers, and 20 of us can space ourselves out down the shed with 1.5metres separation. Bring your own loud hailer for conversation, and send a text to Kate on 0419 6934 15 if you want to come. Bookings essential.
Posted Jun 5, 2020, 5:44 PM by Posts Editor
Congratulations Glyn ShevelsGlyn Shevels has received an ‘Outstanding Volunteer Service Award’, the brief citation for which reads as follows. ‘Glynn Shevels arrived in Tasmania in 2010 and immediately become involved in the Living Boat Trust at Franklin, volunteering in their workshops repairing and maintaining boats in their fleet as well as running the Safety on the Water program for school students. This role expanded his networks to include working with Marine and Safety Tasmania (MAST) and Volunteer Marine Rescue to deliver and promote Safety on the Water education in the community and at the Huon Valley Trade Training Centre where he volunteers as the Coxswain Course Teacher.’ Glyn took on a leadership role and was responsible for numerous initiatives at the LBT …
Posted May 31, 2020, 3:11 PM by Posts Editor
Another binge watchWe have been pointed to another well documented boat build: ‘There’s another Youtube channel that may interest LBT members and that’s ‘Acorn to Arabella’. Two young blokes building an Atkins ‘Ingrid’ design from scratch i.e chopping down the tress and milling the logs. Neither have any boat building experience but are capable woodworkers. They come up with some unique solutions to the problems they come across.. New videos every Friday night: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCAiDWnTP0WB1xCp6uuUo0VA/videos ‘
Posted May 27, 2020, 3:17 PM by Posts Editor
Cat Dink – Gary Macdonald’s isolation projectGary has built himself a catamaran rowing dinghy, and posted details of the build at https://mrmacstaswegia.blogspot.com/p/blog-page_21.html. It will be interesting to hear how well it performs on the water: does sound like a good idea.
Posted May 26, 2020, 5:03 AM by Posts Editor
Binge viewingIf you want a boat building alternative to Netflix Sally Ward recommends ‘Sampson Boat Co, Tally Ho, Rebuilding a 1910 Gaff Cutter’ – https://sampsonboat.co.uk. There is somewhere north of 30 hours of detailed video documentation divided into 78 episodes (so far). For a (relatively) quick overview you could try episode 48 https://sampsonboat.co.uk/48pt2-leos-story-rorc-presentation/
Posted May 23, 2020, 6:17 PM by Posts Editor
Rainbow seasonJohn Snowdon sent in this pic.
Posted May 23, 2020, 5:52 PM by Posts Editor
The way we wereEndra O’May was sorting through a pile of books from her late father when she came across the 1950 Tasmanian Business Directory (‘renowned for accuracy’). Along with many other small towns Frankiin has an entry – see below. We had a population of 1050 and possessed ‘a good reticulated water supply and a septic tank sewage system’. We were big on sawmilling and orchards: ‘the annual output of apples and pears is about 1,250,000 bushels and berry fruits approximately 150 tons’ (a bushel is roughly 20 kilos). The list of orchardists spreads over two pages. There were lots of clubs and activities, and we had our own (registered) bookmaker. It was so much worse in the old days …
Posted May 23, 2020, 5:48 PM by Posts Editor
An LBT story from Mike DredgeLast week’s tales took us to the southern ocean, this week we are in the tropics – the remotest waters off north east New Guinea and the island of Nuguria. See attached: https://tinyurl.com/ydcmfkwe. What a rich collection of story tellers we have in our midst. Who knew? Pics from Mike below. Village Festival Mothership Fishing Dory Day’s fishing At work – ideal conditionsVisitors in fisherman’s canoeVillage life Swamp taroe harvest Village from the sea The village of Bursaria Barracouta
Posted May 18, 2020, 6:11 PM by Posts Editor
Another way to get on the waterWe were rowing towards the boat ramp on Sunday when we were startled by a roar and turned around to see a hovercraft gliding across the river. Later discussion with its builder and pilot Martin revealed that he too was concerned by the roar and has plans to modify the design to reduce it to a whisper. He and Charlotte have moved to Glen Huon where they plan to manufacture these craft.
Posted May 17, 2020, 3:41 PM by Posts Editor
Flowers on the HuonWe are looking forward to ’em, but now is a good time to appreciate some of the photos taken last spring as part of a project by Endra O’May, Jane Johnson and others to document the plants of Egg Island. Pics from Endra O’May
Posted May 17, 2020, 3:16 AM by Posts Editor
An LBT Story from Ian Moncrieff and Di SullivanIan writes: ‘LBT members may remember seeing Last One a skiff designed by Allan Witt at the LBT during the summer of 2017/18 with a ‘for sale’ sign. I built it and Allan has it in his workshop and it is still for sale. My wife Di and I have sold our 38’ Jeanneau sloop , Pied Piper 2 also due to aged bones and diminishing balance – ours not hers. With no boats to build or repair, I have taken to cabinetry using hoop pine ply. See picture. Readers may also remember PP2 at anchor off the Wooden Boat Centre on and off during summers past, as well as the Seawind cat Sonsy, owned by our mates Barb and Bruce …
Posted May 17, 2020, 3:17 AM by Posts Editor
WindpowerIt’s not just for boats: Peter Laidlaw was very taken with these wind powered wheelbarrows. Lots more low tech nostalgia and ideas at www.lowtechmagazine.com Pic from www.lowtechmagazine.com
Posted May 17, 2020, 3:43 PM by Posts Editor
tn21 – call for Camp Support volunteersIf you can help with land-based Camp Support for the LBT’s next tawe nunnugah Raid (tn21) please complete the form here: https://tinyurl.com/yawky2vx. Despite the current social restrictions, planning for tn21 is well underway. The catering team is lined up and we have agreement with land owners to use the overnight camping sites. The final thing to confirm before we open for participant registrations is that we have enough Camp Support volunteers prepared to keep the show on the road. The 2019 Raid was disrupted by the bushfires in southern Tasmania. 2020 has not begun as we would have hoped and it is always possible that the situation in early 2021 may force us to cancel …
Posted May 16, 2020, 11:44 PM by Martin Riddle
Opening up the LBTLast Friday 8thMay the Tasmanian Government announced the timetable for the liftingof some of the restrictions intended to stop the spread of the Covid19 virus. The bits that related to the LBT were as follows. From May 18: Indoor and outdoor gatheringscan increase to 10 people, including for real estate purposes, smallreligious groups, and weddings, but household gatherings are stilllimited to five visitors; Restaurants and cafes can openand seat up to 10 people at a time with table service and socialdistancing; Libraries and local community facilities will open for upto 10 people. From June 15:Gatherings increase to 20 peopleat a time for indoor and outdoor, including restaurants/cafes …
Posted May 14, 2020, 4:05 AM by Posts Editor
LBT Stories: The Rime; Southport Lagoon, March 2019Hans Sipsma has sent in this great contribution: see attached at https://tinyurl.com/y9vvzoey. See pics below and video https://youtu.be/EylON0RslIo
Posted May 13, 2020, 5:37 PM by Posts Editor
Puzzling times aheadRunning out of jigsaw puzzles at home? Fear not. The Franklin Jigsaw Exchange has re-opened and is now under the cover of the Living Boat Trust verandah, next to the Little Boat Library. Look for the big plastic box where you can bring and exchange jigsaws for free. If you don’t have a jigsaw to exchange, or you are just so grateful for the opportunity to puzzle over something new, drop a gold coin into the LBT mail box next to the Library. When you get it home use whatever quarantine steps you think are needed for your ‘new’ puzzle.
Posted May 13, 2020, 9:11 PM by Martin Riddle
Jane’s lockdown projectJane Johnson is working on a home project that may be of interest to future Living Boat Trust members. While based in a real part of Franklin’s history, an apple-picker’s cabin, she is recording the evolution of St Ayles Skiffs in Australia. Jane said “Quite often long periods of time pass and the facts become hazy or get forgotten. My aim is to provide the Living Boat Trust with a comprehensive record. Having competed in the third World Championships in Stranraer, Scotland, in July 2019, it was great to be part of the camaraderie that has evolved through community rowing.” A film was being produced at the championships to celebrate the ten-year anniversary of St Ayles …
Posted May 8, 2020, 4:10 AM by Posts Editor
A cure for cabin fever?For those who yearn for a summer sojourn in the northern hemisphere, if only in the mind, Off Center Harbor recommends ‘Scoggie’, a short film about a young boat builder on Bras d’Or Lake, Cape Breton, Canada. It is a good story in a breathtaking location. Two of the minor characters are still caulking seams in their 90’s, so blokes like our Adrian Dean and Ian Moncrieff aren’t the only ones. Find it at https://www.offcenterharbor.com/flotsam/scoggie/.
Posted May 9, 2020, 3:22 PM by Posts Editor
Jack de CrowJack de Crow was (is?) a Mirror dinghy sailed and rowed by Sandy Mackinnon from Bristol to the Black Sea. Sandy wrote about it in a book enjoyed by many LBTers who might also enjoy the conversation he had with Richard Fidler recently on the ABC available as a podcast: https://www.abc.net.au/radio/programs/conversations/sandy-mackinnon-rpt/12199356. For those who have yet to catch up with all of this ‘The Unlikely Voyage of Jack de Crow’ is a good read, even if, as a tale of daring do, it has been now be put in the shade by John Young’s latest publication.
Posted May 7, 2020, 11:50 PM by Posts Editor
Tying up to bollards and postsWith our small tides and floating pontoons that go up and down with the tides, it’s easy to tie up our boats without much thought and, in doing so, develop bad habits. In places with large tidal ranges people take care never to use any type of jamming hitch to fasten their boats when coming alongside. The trouble with jamming hitches, such as the clove hitch, is that once they have been loaded they can be impossible to release without cutting the line. The Lighterman’s hitch is a good hitch for securing a boat to a post if tied properly. However, we frequently see it done incorrectly so that it jams. The jammed hitch in Monty’s bow …
Posted May 7, 2020, 4:28 AM by Martin Riddle
Lockdown readingJohn Young’s memoir, ‘ Going down another Lane’ is out, and a cracking yarn it is. John has been down many surprising lanes in his lifetime, but you will have to read the book to find out which ones. Franklin Post Office were sold out last week, but hopefully they have restocked. There are various online outlets where it is available: https://www.google.com/search?q=down+another+lane+john+young&ie=utf-8&oe=utf-8 is one, https://www.google.com/search?q=down+another+lane+john+young&ie=utf-8&oe=utf-8 is another.
Posted May 9, 2020, 3:58 PM by Posts Editor
Locked down in FranklinPeter Heading writes: ‘ Vardo in Queensland and I’m locked down in Franklin. Building a new tender for Vardo – the old one has done 20 years of service and is getting a bit tired. A sailing version this time.’
Posted May 13, 2020, 7:34 PM by Posts Editor
Aid to NavigatorsGary Macdonald pointed out this unexpected benefit of the current situation – see below.
Posted May 7, 2020, 11:54 PM by Posts Editor
Franklin Master Plan Stage 3 – Sporting PrecinctLisa Plohl from Huon Valley Council has written to alert us to the community consultation regarding plans for improvement around the oval: see https://www.huonvalley.tas.gov.au/consultations/franklin-master-plan-stage-3-sporting-precinct/ .Have your say. The LBT committee has some concerns about converting the track along the foreshore to pedestrian only, which makes the boat ramp less easily accessible.
Posted May 7, 2020, 12:53 AM by Posts Editor
Committee response to the Franklin Foreshore Rehabilitation and Development planThe council has provided an online form for community response to this plan at https://www.huonvalley.tas.gov.au/consultations/franklin-foreshore-rehabilitation-and-development-plan/All members who have a view are encouraged to use the form before the closing date (May 10th). The committee has written a response on behalf of the LBT and will be submitting it. In summary it says: ‘the Living Boat Trust does not support the proposal to build toilets as part of the North Franklin Foreshore Rehabilitation and Development Plan and does not support the proposal for a path towards the road on the Crown Land licensed by the LBT downstream of the rock wall between the LBT and WBC. The LBT …
Posted May 3, 2020, 1:20 AM by Posts Editor
Attention model boat enthusiastsTony Wilson has sent us the following message. ‘Restore 1930’s Huon Pine Model Yacht – “The Quest” The Quest is a scale model of a particular class of yachts racing in the 1930’s and this model was built and raced by Carl Wilson as a member of the Port Cygnet Model Yacht Club (PCMYC). The Huon and Derwent Times report of the last race of the 1934 season and a photo of the Quest under full sale is attached. The Quest was recovered from storage in Carl’s apple shed some years ago and has been at rest in my garden shed waiting to be restored. The length of hull is approximately 1300mm and the beam 450mm and the …
Posted May 2, 2020, 12:08 AM by Posts Editor
Fire at Port Esperance Sailing ClubThe committee has sent the following message to Port Esperance on behalf of the membership. Dear Port Esperance Sailing Club,‘On behalf of the LBT community we wish to express our sympathy and support. You must still be in the early stages of sorting things out and planning, but don’t forget us: we have a variety of available resources which may be shared and be of assistance whilst you rebuild. These include: ● trailers; ● boats; ● workshop space; ● tools and materials; ● kitchen equipment, the kitchen trailer and/or barbecues; ● access to the wider boating community through our mailing list and LBT News to put out calls for assistance or requests for donations of particular things;● sails/oars/life jackets; ● letters of …
Posted May 2, 2020, 4:09 PM by Posts Editor
Congratulations Celia LevertonWhilst we have all been distracted LBT member Celia Leverton has won an AgriFutures Rural Women’s Development Award. Her profile for the award says: ‘Celia Leverton, from Franklin , is committed to encouraging and and enabling a resilient, profitable farming industry to regenerate the land while producing food and fibre. Celia aspires to increase and maintain the uptake of regenerative farming practices now and for future generations’. Pic from the Weekly Times
Posted May 1, 2020, 10:41 PM by Posts Editor
In need of a little TLC – Cartela for saleHere is an opportunity: see https://www.boatsonline.com.au/boats-for-sale/used/power-boats/purdon-featherstone-cartela-historic-river-steamer/242826 Pic from boatsonline.com.au
Posted Apr 29, 2020, 4:28 PM by Posts Editor
Coxcombing an old wheelIn the days of sail it was not unusual for a ship to be becalmed for days or held in quarantine for weeks. With plenty of time but limited resources sailors would make do with whatever materials were at hand – sperm whale teeth for carving into scrimshaw and rope for decorative coxcombing, making beckets for their sea chests, covering the handles of knives and dressing ship’s rails. While confined to quarters, Martin Riddle has been re-living those days, coxcombing the steering wheel of an old car. The single-line French coxcomb finished with a turk’s head at each spoke not only dresses things up, but is functional as it provides a slip-resistant grip.
Posted Apr 28, 2020, 11:35 PM by Martin Riddle
Volunteers needed to help COVID-19 crisisTasmanian LBT members may wish to respond to the following appeal from Jeremy Rockliff, Minister for Disability Services and Community Development.‘Tasmanians are being urged to register to volunteer as part of a coordinated response to COVID-19 to deliver a range of essential services in Tasmanian communities. As part of our Economic and Support Package, the Tasmanian Government provided $130,000 to mobilise volunteers through EVCREW (emergency volunteers crew), as well as engagement with local councils. So far another 300 volunteers have responded to the call to mobilise Tasmania’s very own volunteer army for the pandemic response, on top of more than 12,000 emergency volunteers who had already registered to respond to natural disasters. Volunteers can be …
Posted Apr 28, 2020, 4:22 PM by Posts Editor
Boat Porn from Off Center HarborThis preview landed in the LBT email box: https://player.vimeo.com/video/288748997 There are a couple of Haven 12 1/2’s featured – the same design as the boat’s built by our American friends at the Wooden Boat Centre for the last Festival.
Posted Apr 25, 2020, 7:24 PM by Posts Editor
LBT Stories: Mini Raid to Kettering Feb 2020Andy Bullock and Mick Hubbard came along in Mick’s heavily customised Light Weight Sharpie. It was a flyer! Read Andy’s report attached: https://tinyurl.com/yboqy5ja and/or see the video: https://youtu.be/lkup27fNQfQ
Posted May 13, 2020, 7:21 PM by Posts Editor
LBT VisitorsThe wood ducks are taking over the LBT lawn.Geoff Steer writes: ‘Not sure if they are enjoying the lack of people or the long grass. About half the number flew off before I could take this picture.’
Posted Apr 25, 2020, 2:53 AM by Posts Editor
Building a Flying 15John Snowdon found this smashing film of how they did it around 1950: https://youtu.be/9e3eYwN-q-Y. Not a power tool in sight until an electric drill is produced at the very end. And love the turning barrel when the boats are being raced. Whisky Galore?
Posted Apr 24, 2020, 6:48 PM by Posts Editor
Geoff’s lockdown projectGeoff Steer writes: ‘Started out to paint an interior brick wall and got a bit carried away and pulled out the old (1970s?) kitchen. Kaboodle flatpack from Bunnings all in boxes sitting in the bathroom (only available space). I hope to pick up the floor tiles Monday. I’ll have to move the fridge before I tile which will be a challenge – a bit hard for someone to help move a fridge if they have to stay 2 metres away. Demolition is very therapeutic. Images show it as it was and as it currently is.’
Posted Apr 24, 2020, 1:52 AM by Posts Editor
Foreshore Plan and the LBTReader’s of this column will be aware of the ongoing discussion about how to spend the $750k allocated by the state government to improving the Franklin foreshore (see for instance https://ishr.site/AiVP). The engineers have been at work, the mayor has inspected, the council has met and as previously reported (https://ishr.site/qv4y) plans are being finalised. As far as the LBT is concerned the parts of this plan likely to have immediate impact are: a landing which will be used for tying up our pontoon; a public toilet to be built on our license land, downstream from the Shed; a path for walkers proceeding along the wall on our upstream boundary. These are highlighted in …
Posted Apr 27, 2020, 3:30 PM by Posts Editor
Port Esperance Sailing Club burnt downWe spoke with the commodore (and LBT member) Matt Wardell and apparently there is a lot of damage to the building and they have lost their dinghy fleet. This is a real blow to the local community, of which the Club is a social hub. It’s Easter Regatta has a history going way back – in recent years the LBT has been an enthusiastic participant – and they have been regular hosts for Tawe Nunnagah. Many of us have enjoyed their hospitality. Pic from Google Maps
Posted Apr 24, 2020, 10:13 PM by Posts Editor
Paul’s lock down projectA long term project that has gained fresh impetus. Paul Frost writes:‘S.S. Cartela…A model at 1.1 mts… The latest addition to the fleet. (No 6). After months of gathering information and photos , and drawing up plans, S.S. Cartela started on the building board in May 2018. After some interesting work on getting the stern section set up, it has been a slow but constant effort, (along with moving house, Volunteering at L.B.T. and normal life’s adventures) it is now 2 years on and she is starting to take shape, with the superstructure now coming along nicely.A lot done, but still a long way to go. When finished, she will be electric …
Posted Apr 23, 2020, 4:13 AM by Posts Editor
Franklin Foreshore Rehabilitation and DevelopmentLisa Plohl from Huon Valley Council writes: ‘We wish to advise you that the community engagement on the Franklin project is now open for consultation. This consultation closes on Sunday 10 May at 5pm. Please follow the link to our ‘Have Your Say’ page HERE (https://ishr.site/cR3e) please share with all you members and community contacts. Unfortunately due to the current COVID-19 restrictions we are not able to conduct face to face meetings or have hard copy surveys. Could I ask that if you have anyone having difficulty with accessing this project please put them in touch with me so I can assist with recording their views. If you have any queries please don’t hesitate in …
Posted Apr 24, 2020, 12:27 AM by Posts Editor
Peter Hill’s lockdown projectsPeter writes: ‘Hello Sailors, In answer to request for things we are doing while around the home patch . Burning off debris from my woods in an early morning bonfire , tearing apart old and rotting apple boxes that contained my feeble attempts at growing vegetables , playing scrabble for the first time in years and losing to the wife (no repeat game as have hidden the board) , Helping her briefly (about an hour) doing a 500 piece star wars jigsaw , had a really good sort out in a section of my shed then put it back in a different position as all will be needed someday . I then decided to paint a large canvas as shown depicting an arid landscape leading to …
Posted Apr 22, 2020, 12:00 AM by Posts Editor
What it takes to run a Tawe NunnugahMartin Riddle is starting to organise tn21 online, as evidenced by the news items that have already gone out through this column. It is interesting to look back at the tn19 webpage (https://ishr.site/d3Kt) and scroll through all the news items sent out to participants to get an insight into what goes into running such an event – even when it didn’t get started! Remember the bushfires? Hats off to Martin and Deb.
Posted Apr 20, 2020, 9:52 PM by Posts Editor
WhaleboatsGary Macdonald was browsing the Gaco Oars site and noticed that John Murray, who runs it, had managed to combine rude comments about whaleboats with pictures of Swiftsure. The effrontery! Read all about it and see if you agree: https://www.gacooarlocks.com/Whaleboat-Heresy.pdf .John, who visited the Shed some years ago, has lots of interesting things to say about rowing – see for instance https://www.gacooarlocks.com/efficient-rowing.pdf – and his site is well worth visiting. Some of us are trying out his unique rowlocks. Pic from Gaco Oars: www.gacooarlocks.com
Posted Apr 20, 2020, 8:09 PM by Posts Editor
John Walduck’s boatJohn has supplied more information about the boat he is building which we reported on in a previous item in this column.‘An Ian Oughtred design ” Penny Fee” which is like a big Grebe. 16 ft by 5ft 4in, so about 2ft 6in longer than the Grebe and about a foot wider, but similar lines. I intend to set it up as a gaff yawl ( something like Martin’s “Hop the Wag”).It was an impulse buy – a fellow member of Wooden Boat Assoc of Qld (who also lived in Kingaroy, but I didn’t know him) had a kit in his shed for 9+ years and did nothing with it. He put it up for sale as he was …
Posted Apr 25, 2020, 3:50 AM by Posts Editor
Fairy ringAt least the mushrooms are enjoying the lack of disturbance at the LBT.
Posted Apr 19, 2020, 12:51 AM by Posts Editor
Skiff news from Western AustraliaJane Johnson writes to say that the Skiff launch at Augusta (far south west corner of WA) has been postponed, but it looks like they have made good progress towards completion of the boat: pics below. For more pics and news see their Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/AugustaYachtClub
Posted Apr 19, 2020, 12:45 AM by Posts Editor
John lays a keelJohn Walduck in Queensland is another distant LBT member who just can’t stop building boats and likes a challenge. On Friday he wrote to say that he hoped to do the 2021 tawe nunnugah Raid….in the boat he was about to start building. And true to his word, first thing on Sunday he sent this picture of the keel he had just laid. Don’t be put off just because Bert and John are building boats and you’re not – if you are doing anything you think would be of interest to other LBT members, send a picture and few words to: sec@lbt.org.au and we’ll post it in the News section. Although …
Posted Apr 19, 2020, 12:34 AM by Martin Riddle
Bert builds a boat (another one)First off the mark with a report of their current project is Bert van Baar from Amsterdam. Bert led the group of six students from the Netherlands building the stunning 16m2 sailing boat at the Wooden Boat Centre for the 2017 Australian Wooden Boat Festival. Bert and students are keeping busy building a St Ayles skiff complete with sailing rig.
Posted Apr 19, 2020, 12:19 AM by Posts Editor
Do you have an interesting project to share?The LBT shed is shut, our fleet is in hibernation and our movements are restricted but that leaves plenty of time to work on projects at home. Ifyou are doing something of interest to other members, send us a photographtogether with a few words and we’ll post it on the LBT News. LBT members are adiverse bunch so don’t think you have to be building a boat to be ofinterest. Send your picture and a few words describing it to: sec@lbt.org.au – you never know, your picturemight inspire others.
Posted Apr 20, 2020, 5:43 PM by Posts Editor
LBT stories: tn14It wasn’t a real Tawe Nunnugah, just an overnighter to Kettering via Randall’s Bay and back. However this was the year of the typhoon, so we got more adventure than we bargained for. If you want to find out what happened and fill in a few moments of your Covid day read on: https://ishr.site/2yBt. And when you have done that you can see Martin Kell’s movie of the first couple of days at http://bit.ly/1om47Qd.
Posted Apr 19, 2020, 3:11 PM by Posts Editor
tn21 Raid planning – COVID-19If you have joined the tawe nunnugah 2021 email list you will already have been sent this message – our apologies to those that receive it twice but we want to make sure we get the word out widely.The thought of enjoying a 10-day small boat expedition with a fleet of like-minded people in early 2021 may feel like a distant hope – but if we don’t start planning, it definitely won’t happen. Read the LBT Committee’s statement on planning for the 2021 tawe nunnugah tn21 Raid at https://tinyurl.com/y7h56g64. None of us knows what the World will be like in 2021 so we are not asking people to make a financial commitment too …
Posted Apr 15, 2020, 11:07 PM by Martin Riddle
LBT Committee in the time of the PlagueIt’s hard to avoid literary allusions under the current circumstances. Thank goodness our pandemic isn’t the real plague. There will be no LBT Committee meetings until the social distancing rules are relaxed, and so no more meeting minutes (https://ishr.site/Wtp9) by which to follow which priorities are being addressed. There is very little activity at the shed, however the committee isn’t entirely dormant. To see what is on their ‘TODO’ list visit https://ishr.site/vgfu . Some of the items on this list are simple and only deserve the line or two of description given to them. Others require days or weeks of work and planning and there maybe pages of supporting documents. This list …
Posted Apr 13, 2020, 3:45 AM by Posts Editor
Capricornia’s modified trailerMartin Riddle writes: ‘When the LBT was thinking of buying Capricornia, as part of the agreement Piet offered to do a few improvements to make the trailer even more of an asset for the LBT. Early in March he put the modified trailer to the test during the launch of this hefty yacht at Cygnet. The improvements include a four-wheel dolly at the front to assist with maneuvering the trailer, a long draw bar to allow the towing vehicle to remain well away from the water while launching and adjustable cradle arms to accommodate a variety of hull shapes and sizes. Thanks Piet – the practical ingenuity of our members never fails to amaze.’ We have recently spoken to Piet …
Posted Apr 11, 2020, 3:33 AM by Posts Editor
Surviving Corona: Free Wooden Boat MagazineLBT member Rob Blackburn has pointed out that the most recent edition of Wooden Boat Magazine has been made FREE, to help all of us at home survive our cabin fever: see https://ishr.site/aBLP . It is a bit difficult to read this online: we suggest you print to file. Pic from Wooden Boat Magazine
Posted Apr 11, 2020, 2:56 PM by Richard Forster
A day at sea aboard YukonAttached is a story from David Nash to entertain all of us stuck at home: https://tinyurl.com/yceuhh6w. Those Nash boys have grown – see pics below..
Posted May 13, 2020, 7:25 PM by Posts Editor
Skiffs self isolateOn a stunning autumn day, with teams of lifters keeping 1.5m apart, the 3 skiffs were taken out of the water. One was transported into the LBT extension on our excellent new beach trolley, which passed its field trial with flying colours. The other 2, on our Bendigo trailers, are now in the evaporator sheds (1.5m apart) – with the very kind permission of the Krynens. Who knows when they will be rowed again, but at least they are safely protected from winter weather. Many thanks to the rowers who turned up to provide the muscle power.
Posted Mar 26, 2020, 3:53 PM by Posts Editor
Franklin Marine is open (as of March 27th)Ian from the chandlery tells us that whilst observing all necessary precautions he is still open for business in order to support those whose isolation activities are boaty.
Posted Mar 26, 2020, 3:53 PM by Posts Editor
Stories from the seaIn a previous post we asked what we should be doing whilst we are all holed up. One answer is to tell stories, and John Snowdon has set the ball rolling by contributing one. John writes:‘[this] story is rather fanciful. It is a true account of a storm at sea on a passage from New Cal. to Coffs Harbour in 2018. We actually had 5 onboard, although the skipper was incapacitated due to a medical condition. But I took some liberties and wrote from the 2nd person POV, which made it difficult to introduce anyone else… except the flying squid.’See attached: https://ishr.site/EBNN Pics from John Snowdon
Posted Mar 24, 2020, 3:22 PM by Posts Editor
Mark’s WallThe grounds of the LBT have been transformed since Mark McBride’s arrival – commented on by everybody up to and including the mayor. His latest creation (with a little help from his friends) is the rock wall along the foreshore. John Snowdon writes: ‘I gave Mark a hand under the artistic direction of a visitor named Annabelle. She installed a Tasmanian shaped rock in the works and thought that it should make a point of interest for tourists to find. Annabelle came for a row too’. Pics from John Snowdon
Posted Mar 24, 2020, 4:37 PM by Posts Editor
What to do whilst the Shed is shut downWe have received the following (edited) email from the Tasmanian Men’s Shed Association. ‘Good morning Shed Members, As many members would be aware, due to the Covid-19 virus some sheds have chosen to close. So far, this remains only Sheds that are connected to Community Houses. Sheds that remain open have advised their members of their individual plan for keeping members safe. We encourage you all to keep in touch with those members choosing to stay at home by giving them a call. Some sheds are also getting involved with Community work delivery supplies to the elderly and those that can’t leave their homes and those with surplus veggies in their gardens are making them available to …
Posted Mar 22, 2020, 2:55 PM by Posts Editor
Boat trolley: thanks Dave!When Dave Conway heard we needed a trolley for getting boats in and out of the water he got out the welder, rolled up his sleeves and did it. Thanks Dave!
Posted Mar 22, 2020, 2:31 PM by Posts Editor
Shutdown of organised events at the LBTIn the LBTCoronavirus policy previously announced we said that ‘advice andcircumstances are rapidly changing, … all decisions may only applyfor a short period of time’ and ‘that we have access to very goodadvice from health professionals’ . In the event circumstancesHAVE changed and the committee has accepted the advice of theseprofessionals to close the LBT Shed and facilities to organised,formal activities. That includes Monday dinners, Tuesday andThursday work groups, rowing and sailing. Individual members shouldstill be able to enter as they see fit while observing healthdirections. If you unsure as to what these are seehttps://www.health.gov.au/news/health-alerts/novel-coronavirus-2019-ncov-health-alert#how-to-protect …
Posted Mar 22, 2020, 4:11 AM by Posts Editor
LBT and the coronavirusAt the LBT Committee meeting on Thursday night the followingresponse to the threat posed by the Coronavirus was formulated. The committeewill keep abreast of information and government policy decisions atall levels and react accordingly. We have access to very goodadvice from health professionals. The LBT Shedwill remain open until further notice. Recommendedhealth procedures are to be followed at the LBT Shed. Wash hands frequently with soap and water, and thoroughly dry them on paper towel. Maintain social distance. Avoid touching face, mouth, nose. Practice respiratory hygiene. If you have any cold symptoms, stay away. If you are at risk, stay away. In the kitchen, preferably use the dishwasher, otherwise use antibacterial dish washing liquid …
Posted Mar 20, 2020, 10:09 PM by Posts Editor
Tasmanian Land Conservancy NewsletterAs the ‘custodians’ of a large slice of the Egg Islands LBT member the Tasmanian Land Conservancy is a very important local organisation. We recently received their latest newsletter which can be read at https://tasland.org.au/2020/03/newsletter-61/
Posted Mar 19, 2020, 2:38 PM by Posts Editor
Palais closedFrom the Palais Management Committee: ‘Due to the current Coronavirus situation, Huon Valley Council has temporarily closed all public halls until further notice. Regrettably, the Palais has had to cancel or postpone all scheduled events until further notice. This includes the monthly market and the monthly Classic Movie Night. The Palais Garage sale normally held in June has also been postponed. We will inform you when the situation changes and we are back to normal. In an effort to support our Collective fresh food suppliers, some have decided to man their own table outside the Collective from 10am – noon on Fridays only, until otherwise notified.We look forward to seeing you again at the Palais – hopefully in the not too …
Posted Mar 18, 2020, 5:05 PM by Posts Editor
Franklin History Group NewsletterLatest from the the History Group, who have found a home at the Masonic Lodge. See attached: https://ishr.site/cDSi
Posted Mar 17, 2020, 4:40 AM by Posts Editor
Spanish Fiesta with “Karavana Flamenca’ Thursday 26 MarchBarb Dawson from the Palais writes:‘Experience the spirit of Spain in a night of authentic Spanish music and food at the Palais Theatre Franklin. Flamenco band “Karavana Flamenca” from Victoria performs a repertoire of authentic and original Spanish rumba, traditional flamenco and gypsy music. Karavana Flamenca has played major festivals and events Australia-wide, and received rave reviews as support band for international giants ‘Gipsy Kings’ on their last Australian tour. The bar opens at 6.30 pm; concert begins at 7.30pm. Delicious paella Valenciana is available to purchase for $15 at 7pm. A night to dance, lounge or dine Spanish style! Tickets $20.00. Book via link at TryBooking (https://www.trybooking.com/book/event?eid=613593 …
Posted Mar 13, 2020, 6:12 PM by Posts Editor
PandoraThe LBT has received the following email from Adam Fraser. ‘I am the current owner / custodian of Pandora , one class design built 1910 in HOBART. I have salvaged her from Franklin last year and she currently is moored in Cygnet. Unfortunately I have not the time or money to upkeep her and I am currently residing in Sydney. I would be extremely grateful if the Living Boat Trust could take on Pandora and I would very happily donate her to your organization. This would be unconditional! I would like to ask if you can take her that I could be a member of your trust and when I get to spend time in Tasmania I could assist in working, maintaining …
Posted Mar 22, 2020, 4:13 AM by Posts Editor
LBT committee meeting March 19thThe agenda for this meeting is being drawn up at https://ishr.site/PEm7 . Draft minutes for the February meeting can be viewed at https://ishr.site/3Yzy
Posted Mar 13, 2020, 5:14 PM by Posts Editor
Latest plan for foreshore upgradeThe LBT has received the attached draft plan (https://ishr.site/6uD2) from council, which was drawn up after consultation with stakeholders (Wooden Boat Centre, us, etc). A response has been written (https://ishr.site/hhvd) and will form the basis for further discussions.
Posted Mar 13, 2020, 5:52 PM by Posts Editor
Sailing Monday 9th MarchThe conditions look good, so lets do it. Meet at the pontoon at noon ready to take Capricornia out.
Posted Mar 7, 2020, 1:46 PM by Posts Editor
LBT small boat expeditions – Dover and the LakesWe are planning at least two more small boat expeditions forthe next few months. Over the Easter weekend we will take a fleet from Franklinto Dover to join the Port Esperance Sailing Club annual regatta leaving on GoodFriday (10 April) and returning on Monday 13 April. We are also planning anAutumn trip to Lake Sorrell at Interlaken west of Oatlands. If you would like tobe involved in either of these trips or just want to follow the plans as theydevelop, join the mail group. No need to re-join the group if you completed theon-line form when we were planning the Charlotte Cove trip. Join the mail group by following the link …
Posted Mar 7, 2020, 1:40 PM by Posts Editor
Sailing Monday cancelled March 2ndHans has been in contact to say that his eBike expedition is still happily trundling through northern Tasmania, and we await his return to skipper Capricornia. Pic from Gary Macdonald
Posted Mar 1, 2020, 2:31 AM by Posts Editor
‘Nancy’ Explorers on the Huon at FranklinA Monday expedition aboard the Living Boat Trust’s wooden ferry “MV Nancy” (circa 1917), gave seven Huon Regional Care residents and two staff members the chance to see Franklin from the river, as was common in the early nineteenth century when boats were the main form of transport. See Jane Johnson’s report attached: https://ishr.site/J7Wa
Posted Feb 29, 2020, 11:35 AM by Posts Editor
The Steamers RunThe Paynesville crew sent the following report of their row across the Gippsland Lakes. LBT rowers follow the Steamers Run to Paynesville and join in the Paynesville Classic Boat Rally. A team of 6 intrepid rowers, one cox and ground support joined the inaugural raid of the ;St Ayles Skiff Community Rowing Association of Australia (SASCRAA). Day One. Our team of 6 rowers were allocated to the boats; FAST Messenger, Warrnambool, De Mirrie Dancer, Marlo, Cariad, Melbourne, and the Mordialloc Boat, Melbourne. We rowed down the fast flowing Thompson River from the Port of Sale through the man made canal, under the historic swing bridge, past the swimming snake, under the two wedge tail edges, entertained by the fly past …
Posted Mar 1, 2020, 1:09 PM by Posts Editor
Unlabelled containers can be expensive for the LBTPlease contact the LBT Secretary if you know anything about this 5 litre container and the 2 litres of liquid in it. Someone has put it in the fuel locker but there is nothing to indicate what it contains apart from the word ‘Poison’. It is definitely not water but apart from that we have no way of identifying it. It will cost more than $100 to dispose of it responsibly because it has to be treated as a hazardous substance. Please do not leave any liquids in unlabelled containers – there are many better ways for the LBT to spend the member’s money than disposing of unknown liquids.
Posted Feb 27, 2020, 9:04 PM by Posts Editor
Sailing lay day Monday 24thSkippers are busy. May be an opportunity to get Capricornia out in the evening.
Posted Feb 27, 2020, 8:54 PM by Posts Editor
Monday BBQ coming upA quick glance at the kitchen roster posted by Kate below (https://ishr.site/ArxV) tells us that last Monday of the month is indeed coming up. Bring something for you and something to share. Kate is still looking for cooks. Contact her if you can help out.
Posted Feb 22, 2020, 12:15 PM by Posts Editor
Latest AWBF newsletterThe Australian Wooden Boat Festival never sleeps! See https://ishr.site/B35n. News includes an item about Andrew ‘Old Sea Dogs’ Wilson, and word of the departure of ‘Admiral‘ for the Bass and Flinders Centre at George Town.
Posted Feb 21, 2020, 3:00 AM by Posts Editor
Draft LBT Policy on fund-raisingAt it’s February meeting the LBT Committee provisionally approved a new fund-raising policy – see https://ishr.site/USku . This document is now available for members to comment on before it is ratified.
Posted Feb 21, 2020, 2:00 AM by Posts Editor
Mooring Works – Marine Farm Lease 186 Brabazon PointMAST reports: Mariners are advised Tassal will be undertaking mooring work at MF186, Brabazon Point commencing 24 February 2020. The corner markers will be moved to the co-ordinates shown below and returned once mooring works are completed on 23 March 2020. Corner marker location Degrees, minutes decimalWGS 84 Latitude Longitude 1. -43° 11.405’S 146° 59.226’E 2. -43° 11.567’S 146° 59.701’E 3. -43° 11.712’S 146° 59.604’E 4. -43° 11.553’S 146° 59.133’E
Posted Feb 21, 2020, 12:37 AM by Posts Editor
Franklin foreshore developmentMany LBT members will be aware that in 2018 the Huon Valley Council won a grant of $750k from the State Government to improve the Franklin Waterfront. There was a report in this column on a recent meeting with council to discuss this initiative (https://ishr.site/yDxB) and on Monday 17th of February their was a follow up meeting. The LBT was represented by David Pittaway and Richard Forster. We again emphasised that our priority was access to the water, that the LBT had a number of pontoons ready for deployment, and that any way that council could help with this would be appreciated. See pics which were presented to council below. As can be seen in the first …
Posted Feb 17, 2020, 3:24 PM by Posts Editor
Of droughts and flooding rainsA couple of weeks ago Pip Stevenson went home to northern New South Wales to deal with bushfires and drought. Pretty much ever since he has been flood bound! He sent the accompanying pics. Gotta love Oz.
Posted Feb 16, 2020, 1:00 PM by Posts Editor
Academy Award winner at the Palais March 1stWe learnt this from Franklin Palais Events. Yes, it is ‘Parasite’ which has just won the Oscar for best picture for 2019. Read all about it on Rotten Tomatoes: https://www.rottentomatoes.com/m/parasite_2019 . Sunday 1st March at the Franklin Palais. Doors open 6.30pm. Film starts after 7.15pm but before 7.30pm. $5 for an introduction to the future. (Or now, really). The Palais Collective Shop will be open in the Foyer before the movie for crafts and gifts. Libations from the Bar include stimulants, depressants and comfort drinks. Please bring a plate of food to share for supper during the intermission. Vote for Parasite.Is it Better than Citizen Kane – er – Loving Vincent?
Posted Feb 16, 2020, 12:40 PM by Posts Editor
Franklin History Group February NewsletterSee attached: https://ishr.site/koT8 . Interesting item on the history of lighting in Franklin. Electricity wasn’t a done deal in 1913.
Posted Feb 16, 2020, 12:26 PM by Posts Editor
Sailing Monday 17th FebHans says that the day is looking ideal for learning how to deal with light winds in Capricornia. See you at noon at the shed. Pic from Garry Macdonald
Posted Feb 15, 2020, 7:08 PM by Posts Editor
Careful with that fuel lockerRecently enough fuel siphoned out of a tank and into the bottom of the locker to have caused quite a bang if a match had been applied. Attention smokers!
Posted Feb 12, 2020, 4:39 AM by Posts Editor
Excursion to KetteringAs everybody knows, we live on the best sheltered waterway in Australia and last weekend a small LBT fleet was able to take full advantage of it. First night was at Charlotte Cove, ideal in the prevailing south easterly wind and with the Scout Camp for accommodation on the shore. Next day it was off to Kettering in a stiff breeze that had everybody skipping along and shortening sail. We joined the Wooden Boat Rally there for one of the best curry dinners we have ever eaten, then the next day headed back to Charlotte’s with the same scudding breeze, this time somewhat more behind us. On Monday things quietened down, so there was time for contemplating the beauties …
Posted Feb 11, 2020, 7:38 PM by Posts Editor
Office on the move againOver the years the LBT office has been shunted around the shed as needs dictated, and Richard Page recently had his big crane in operation to move it back to the downstream side. He did a bit of log shuffling whilst he was at it – see pics from Paul Frost below, and big thanks to Paul for organising this.
Posted Feb 10, 2020, 2:27 PM by Posts Editor
Rowers and sailors wantedJane Johnson writes: ‘There are many times available to row the St Ayles Skiffs during the week. If you enjoy being up early, ready to “carpe diem” or “seize the day” there are two 8am groups – Tuesday and Saturday, and one row/sail group on a Thursday afternoon from 5. You can put your name down us an emergency fill-in, or regular participant. For anyone interested contact Jane jenjane2012@gmail.com or ph 0400717140 for more information.’
Posted Feb 3, 2020, 1:44 PM by Posts Editor
Skiff launch in Western AustraliaJane Johnson passed on the following:‘Thanks for your email & interest in our skiffs. We are in the early planning stages of the launching celebrations other than to say the skiff builders have committed to completing them ready for launching on the 26th April in a location known as Colour Patch which is at the mouth of the Blackwood River in Augusta (hard to miss) – it’ll probably be mid to late morning & is the Sunday of the Anzac Day long weekend. – We’ll keep you update with proceedings. It’s amazing how this boat building exercise has developed broad community interest reaching far & wide – we run a visitors book at the shed & other than the 30 odd boat …
Posted Feb 2, 2020, 2:48 PM by Posts Editor
Franklin History on the radioDeb van Velsen alerted us to this very nice item on the ABC Joel Rheinberger show: https://tinyurl.com/wlhqeez
Posted Feb 2, 2020, 1:38 PM by Posts Editor
No sailing Monday Feb 3rdThat fair weather skipper Hans Sipsma says the forecast is looking too glum to take Capricornia out.
Posted Feb 2, 2020, 1:24 PM by Posts Editor
Charlotte Cove expedition planningMartin Riddle writes: Final Details Planning Meeting At the LBT shed on Monday at 5.30pm before the dinner. LBT boats Hans will skipper Capricornia, and with 8 people wanting to do the trip on an LBT boat we could manage with just Capricornia from the LBT fleet. Some of the 8 would need to spend time on the support boat Seaire with Tom. Kevin has also offered a spot on Theona if needed. Alternatively, if some of the maybes (marked ‘?’) decide to come, we could also bring Monty. Andy Bullock has offered to skipper one of the whaleboats if needed. There are still a few things to do to get Monty ready for a trip like this. They are …
Posted Feb 2, 2020, 12:43 PM by Posts Editor
Sailing Monday 27th JanuaryHans Sipsma writes: ‘Light winds from the north, possible landing party to raid the Kermandie pub on the not so holy day. Starting at 12 noon.’
Posted Jan 26, 2020, 2:38 AM by Posts Editor
End of a project boatBob Tubman decided that his ‘yellow boat’, which has been sitting outside the backdoor of the Shed, was beyond repair.
Posted Jan 22, 2020, 2:04 PM by Posts Editor
The boat merry-go-roundBoats go back in the water, boats come out. Graham Wright sent the following pics. The Monty, Swiftsure and Absent Friends are ‘taking up’ after recent repaint jobs, and poor ‘Black Swan’ is in the shed blushingly naked of paint.
Posted Jan 21, 2020, 1:06 PM by Posts Editor
Sailing Monday 20th JanThere were very good reports of sailing last Monday, Hans plans to have Capricornia out again today. See you at the pontoon at noon.
Posted Jan 19, 2020, 1:40 PM by Posts Editor
North Franklin Foreshore DevelopmentAt the last State election the Huon Valley Council received $750k for a project with the following outcomes. Marina area providing areas for commercial vessels and tourist cruises to dock. New public jetty area, following the demolition of the former Wharf area in front of the Evaporators sit. Pedestrian linkages between the existing walking trails and the Marina are. Stabilising the Evaporator Shed site was deemed to be the most important goal to achieve, but an engineering report has shown that the funds available are insufficient for this purpose, and the council are now looking for other alternative ways of achieving the listed outcomes. They met with the LBT (represented by David Pittaway and Richard Forster) and other interested parties …
Posted Jan 19, 2020, 1:34 PM by Posts Editor
Julie Burgess newsGraham Norris, our man on the north coast, has sent us this news clipping from the Advocate about the Julie Burgess. Apparently council are about to consider tenders.
Posted Jan 19, 2020, 1:53 PM by Posts Editor
Small boat expeditions – planning up-datePlanning is well underway for the small boatexpedition to Charlotte Cove and on to the Kettering Wooden Boat Rally (6-10February, 2020). If you are interested in joining this trip, or other trips over thesummer, please join the email group (follow this link to join the email group: https://tinyurl.com/t6ddpam). Opportunities are availableto sail, row, travel in comfort on a larger boat or just join us by car. Forfurther details of what’s planned if the weather is favourable and contingenciesfor less good weather, please follow this link: https://tinyurl.com/uuhjvwf.
Posted Jan 19, 2020, 1:13 PM by Posts Editor
Vale Libor SikoraLibor passed away last week. Libor was a stalwart and good friend of the Living Boat Trust. In recent years he was busy on other projects and we saw less of him, but many LBT members remember him very fondly. There will be a memorial event on Sunday 19th of January – see notice attached for details: https://tinyurl.com/stmo3fl
Posted Jan 16, 2020, 12:19 PM by Posts Editor
The Blue Peril‘Property Services’ has responded to Lorrie Harrison’s enquiry about the fate of the fish and chip shop punt stranded on the Franklin foreshore. ‘Thank you for your enquiry to Property Services (formerly “Crown Land Services”) Enquiries. My understanding of the situation is that removal of the punt is expected in the next couple of months, subject to progress of the Tender process which is being managed by our Operations Team.’
Posted Jan 13, 2020, 3:06 PM by Posts Editor
Wooden Boat Festival of Geelong March 6th-9thThe Living Boat Trust attended this Festival a few years ago (see http://bit.ly/2580dCU) and had a jolly good time. Geelong is a great boat town – a recommendation. See the website www.wbfgeelong.com.au for more details
Posted Jan 13, 2020, 3:04 AM by Posts Editor
Icecream containersEndra O’May is collection ice cream containers for bushfire wildlife relief. Please leave in the bag at the shed.
Posted Jan 12, 2020, 12:45 PM by Posts Editor
Sailing Monday Jan 13thThe sea breeze kicked in so hard that Capricornia couldn’t quite make it to Kermandie last week: let’s see if we can get there this week. See you at the LBT pontoon at 12 noon.
Posted Jan 12, 2020, 1:39 PM by Posts Editor
LBT Rowers NewsletterInterested in rowing at the LBT? You might like to receive the “Rowers Newsletter”. Email Natalie Natalie.williams@entra.com.au or Lorrie lorrieharrison@tpg.com.au See the latest edition attached: https://tinyurl.com/v7vggfq.
Posted Jan 12, 2020, 12:15 PM by Posts Editor
Fire awareness meeting Wed 15th JanA fire awareness Q & A evening will be held at the Palais Theatre in Franklin on Wednesday, 15 January starting at 6.30pm. The evening is a joint initiative of the Franklin Progress Association, the Franklin Fire Brigade and the Tasmanian Fire Service. It is being held to hopefully build on the lessons learned from last season’s fires and to ensure that people are as well prepared for this season as they can possibly be. The session will involve a short video presentation, a question and answer period, followed by time to talk to the local fireys one on one. All members of the Huon Valley community are welcome to attend.For any further information call the FPA President …
Posted Jan 8, 2020, 11:08 AM by Posts Editor
Funnies at Frank’s 30th JanuaryFeaturing Ivan Aristeguieta, doors open 6pm, show starts 8pm. See flyer below for details: https://tinyurl.com/yjrbymm7
Posted Jan 8, 2020, 10:31 AM by Posts Editor
Happy New LBT Year!There have been some activities over the Christmas break, but 2020 starts on January 6th for the LBT. Capricornia will be going out for a sail at noon and the first Monday dinner is in the evening. The first Tuesday work day follows.
Posted Jan 5, 2020, 3:51 AM by Posts Editor
LBT Committee Meeting this coming weekThe draft minutes for the December committtee meeting can be viewed at https://tinyurl.com/s9qygl9. There is a draft agenda for the January meeting being compiled at https://tinyurl.com/ts2yjal. If you think there is something that needs to be considered send correspondence to sec@lbt.org.au.
Posted Jan 4, 2020, 3:31 AM by Posts Editor
‘Citizen Kane’ at the Palais, Sunday Jan 5thBuffoon writes: ‘On Sunday 5th January we’re screening Citizen Kane, voted by a panel of esteemed critics for five decades to be The Greatest Movie Ever Made. And at the Franklin Palais we are testing this proposition with our own vote. There will be a ballot box by the door as you leave, with pencils and small voting slips nearby. All you have to do is write a number on a voting slip and post it in the ballot box.’ To find out what it is all about come along. Doors open 6.30pm, film starts after 7.15pm but before 7.30pm. $5 for the Greatest Movie Ever Made, libations from the Bar include stimulants, depressants and …
Posted Jan 4, 2020, 3:18 AM by Posts Editor
New Boxing Day Tradition?Deb van Velsen writes: “‘Imagine’ was rowed though the canal (very low tide!) and down to Seven Inch Beach for a picnic lunch and swim. ‘Imagine’ was then sailed back to Franklin. The crew of Jane Johnson, Sally Ward (from Scotland), Jenni Blackburn, Martin Riddle and cox Deb van Velzen reckon such an enjoyable trip could very well become an annual tradition!”
Posted Jan 2, 2020, 4:50 AM by Posts Editor
‘Tequila Mockingbird’ at the Palais Monday 13thBarb Dawson writes: ‘Fresh from the Cygnet Folk festival, this band is coming to Franklin for a concert at the beautiful Palais Theatre. Bring your dancing shoes, this is going to be a lot of fun! From ballads and singalongs to high-energy dance parties, The Tequila Mockingbird Orchestra have spent years telling their stories with guitars and violins, with accordions and bass, with melodies and music makers gleaned from their wanderings.’For details see the flyer: https://tinyurl.com/tgykcfh
Posted Jan 2, 2020, 4:33 AM by Posts Editor
Huon River shared pathwayFrom the Huon Valley Council website: ‘Huon Valley Council is currently assessing the feasibility of developing a shared pathway along the Huon River, running from Huonville to Franklin. Once completed, we envisage that the accessible pathway would bring numerous benefits to the Huon Valley, including tourists, local residents and businesses. … Council will be hosting a workshop to discuss the shared pathway project further with the community. This workshop will be held on Tuesday the 18th of February 2020, from 6pm – 8pm at the Palais Theatre in Franklin (3388 Huon Highway). ‘ To read more about it and have your say go to https://tinyurl.com/yx2ggwro
Posted Dec 27, 2019, 4:34 PM by Posts Editor
Raiding in ‘Afloat’Gary McDonald has pointed us to the latest ‘Afloat’ magazine which has an extensive article about small boat expeditions in Australia, including our own Tawe Nunnugah. See page 14 ‘Cockleshell Heroes’ by Robin Hilliard. A good read – download from https://tinyurl.com/qkwvklw
Posted Dec 27, 2019, 3:36 PM by Posts Editor
Opening of the swimming seasonDeb van Velsen writes: ‘Jane Johnson, Sally Ward (boat builder and Skiffie from Scotland) and Deb van Velzen officially declared the swimming season open for Franklin on the 18th of December. They also took the opportunity to try out the Nancy’s safety ladder, and feedback on a small adjustment will be shared with the Tuesday group. Wine that was won at the recent Swiftsure Regatta helped bring the event to an enjoyable close on the sunny Nancy deck.’
Posted Dec 22, 2019, 2:40 PM by Posts Editor
Small boat expedition – early FebruaryWe are planning a small boat expedition around the Kettering Wooden Boat Rally in early February. We have booked theCharlotte Cove Scout House for a few days so we can use it on the way to and from Kettering and are exploring options for camping at Kettering. The Rally is the weekend of 8-9 February 2020. The only plan so faris that we leave from Franklin, spend one or more nights at Charlotte Cove,spend a day or two at Kettering (possibly camping) and then return via a nightor two at Charlotte Cove. Just how long we spend at Kettering and at CharlotteCove on the way there and back can be decided later by those …
Posted Dec 22, 2019, 2:37 PM by Posts Editor
Swiftsure RegattaJane Johnson sent the following report. ‘The Sunday forecast was grim butLiving Boat Trust members were stalwarts. The prestigious SwiftsureRegatta had events and awards including the Roger Harwood Trophy,which were up for grabs. An increased number of competitors, all withimpressive rowing credentials, meant Tasmania’s variablemeteorological and nautical conditions could make a difference. Ahandicap system based on boat length and numerous other factors wasin place and had been carefully finetuned over many years. The coursewas set. The crowd was on edge. Just over 44 minutes later, DavidNash from the Yukon, who must have been secretly practising inbetween tours, crossed the line first and took out the honour. Thecrowd roared …
Posted Dec 15, 2019, 3:02 PM by Posts Editor
Christmas Break at the LBTThe last Monday night dinner for 2019 will be a BYO party on December 23rd. Come early to help set up. The Living Boat Trust will break for Christmas from 24th December until January the 5th. See you on the 6th. And Happy Christmas!
Posted Dec 15, 2019, 1:16 AM by Richard Forster
Hurry on down to Swiftsure Regatta this SundayThese folk are. Rowing, sailing, fun on the water. Get all the details from the flyer: https://tinyurl.com/vhgcwnj Pic from John Snowdon
Posted Dec 11, 2019, 4:11 AM by Posts Editor
Van Diemen’s Band at Palais for Christmas concert 17 DecemberBarb Dawson writes: Back by popular demand Van Diemen’s Band takes a whole new ‘VDB Christmas’ on the road again this year. Artistic Director, Julia Fredersdorff has put together a large 17th Century band featuring weird and wonderful instruments of the renaissance. The concerts will once again feature the Tasmanian Youth Chorale as well as soloists, Soprano Helen Thomson & Bass-baritone Thomas Flint. Join us at the Palais Theatre for a family-friendly musical Christmas celebration featuring music written for Christmas, as well as some well known carols for all to sing! The concert starts at 6pm. Tickets for this event can be purchased at the door, or booked online at the following link: https://www.trybooking.com/book …
Posted Dec 6, 2019, 1:04 PM by Posts Editor
LBT Committee meeting coming upIt is due to be held next Thursday 12th December: a draft agenda is being worked on at https://tinyurl.com/r2o8sm7
Posted Dec 5, 2019, 2:01 PM by Posts Editor
Show and tell at the LBTThe log that everybody is inspecting solemnly in the pic below is the gaff from Yukon, currently being worked on in the workshop annex by David Nash. It is the grandpa’s axe of spars: look closely and you can find some original wood but it is a masterpiece of scarfed in repairs and patches. Pic from Gary Macdonald
Posted Dec 7, 2019, 12:01 AM by Posts Editor
Boat theftPeter Shimeld writes: ‘there has been a dinghy stolen from my jetty [south Franklin] (probably last 24 hrs). Hopefully this is a one-off by someone wanting a quick fish or something and the dinghy will then be abandoned, but it might be someone who wants to start a collection of boats and bits from the region. It was Mike Foley’s (Solstice) small white fibreglass “clinker” with rope and green painted gunnels that was taken. John Young’s boat had the canopy cords cut and the oars stolen too. ‘ Pic from https://pixabay.com
Posted Dec 5, 2019, 12:57 PM by Posts Editor
Snow on the Hartz didn’t stop usThe forecast was horrible and the winds were gusting, but we decided to give it a go for the last day of the ‘On the Water’ program, and all went well. They breed ’em tough on the Huon after all. After rowing to Cradoc for morning tea, we came back to Petty Sessions for lunch and activities in the ‘Rowan’ and ‘Nancy’, which was followed by a quick sprint home – pics below. Thanks to all who have contributed to making this program a success (yet again). It has been a wild spring and conditions were often against us, but that has forced us to find new ways to do things using our wonderful fleet of boats, so in future we …
Posted Dec 5, 2019, 4:37 AM by Posts Editor
Huntsman paper jamb errorMost people would be familiar with the term ‘bug’ to describe a computer error. It originated from an actual event when a moth landed on a relay circuit back in the earlies of digital technology. The Ozzie equivalent occurred this morning when the secretary attempted to print some notes: see pic below. He is still fishing bits of arachnid out of the works, so paperwork may be a bit slow showing up this week.
Posted Dec 4, 2019, 5:16 PM by Posts Editor
Extreme project ‘Vera’Graham Norris has written to point out that Vera, a sister boat to Nancy and Eva Blanche, has sunk on her mooring at Prince of Wales Bay. The following notice was placed in the Herald Sun.‘The vessel “Vera” has sunk and been abandoned at Prince of Wales Bay. Anyone claiming ownership of the vessel should make contact to PO Box 166, Lindisfarne 7015 with evidence of ownership or rights to the vessel before close of business 2/12/19. Should there be no responses by 2/12/19 then the owners of the property on which the vessel has been abandoned will offer the vessel for sale to recover outstanding debts. If no suitable offer is received, the vessel …
Posted Dec 5, 2019, 4:21 AM by Posts Editor
Sailing Monday 2nd DecemberCapricornia hit nine and half knots coming back from Kermandie Pub last week. The forecast today is for ‘lively’ winds, which could suit if the rest of the weather behaves. See you at the pontoon at noon, and lets attempt to replicate last week’s heroics and join the happy throng in the Kermandie marina for another brief visit – pic from Pip Stevenson below. If you can spot Capricornia in that lot you are a better man than me Ganga Din.
Posted Dec 1, 2019, 2:05 PM by Posts Editor
Excursion with Wooden Boat Guild to HuonvilleOn Sunday morning a jolly good company of people and boats assembled at the Franklin pontoon and boat ramps, and headed off up the Huon. Rowing into the prevailing north-westerly wind kept those with oars in their hands honest, and the landing at Huonville was a welcome sight when we finally arrived. A repaste and we were ready to take to the water again, where of course a sea breeze to row against had kicked in. But it was good. Thanks to the Wooden Boat Guild and Andrew Perkins in particular for organising what has become an anticipated annual event. See pictures below from Viv Martin and Zainab Clark.
Posted Nov 30, 2019, 10:31 PM by Posts Editor
Franklin in the newsThe cover of the latest edition of Water Craft features a picture of ‘our’ Americans building the Haven in the Wooden Boat Centre, plus a matching article. Next is an article by ‘our’ Dutchman Bert van Baar describing the Dutch Wooden Boat Festival he organised recently, and that is followed by an item on the World Skiffie Championships at which we were represented. This last includes a ‘view from Tasmania’, by ‘our’ Jane Johnson. Apart from the parochial interest there is a lot to like about the magazine: https://watercraft-magazine.com/
Posted Nov 28, 2019, 5:34 PM by Posts Editor
Surprise Movie at the Palais: December 1stDeb Combs writes: ‘Hi Team Movies, After 7 plus years coordinating Palais Classic Movies I have decided to pass the ‘Clapper Board’ to film buff Andrew. However I still have one more film to screen and as it is our Christmas film, I have decided to keep it a surprise, because I can. Plus it’s FREE ENTRY.’ Doors open 6.30pm
Posted Nov 25, 2019, 2:28 AM by Posts Editor
Swiftsure Regatta 15th DecemberHans Sipsma’s Swiftsure Regatta graphic has been used on buttons, posters and flyers for years now, and it’s time to role it out again: see flyer attached for more details about the event: https://tinyurl.com/vhgcwnj Hans recently dug up the original artwork which we will put on the wall at the shed if we can find wall space.
Posted Nov 24, 2019, 2:21 PM by Posts Editor
Monday Sailing Nov 25thMeet down at the pontoon at noon. Warm weather, good winds forecast, and given the experience of the last few weeks we may be able to head out with the north westerly and come home on the sea breeze. Might be tying up at Kermandie at the midpoint for a shandy.
Posted Nov 24, 2019, 1:34 PM by Posts Editor
Bring your own Monday night dinner coming upIt is the usual end of month highlight: you get to choose your very own menu. BBQ fare along with something to share is favoured. A special treat for this Monday is that Vivien is going to show us the progress he and his team are making on the ‘Percy’ dinghy that they are building over at the Wooden Boat School. First pic below shows preparations for putting on the second strake. Second pic shows an almost complete Percy being finished off by Gordon, and we will be able to see that too.
Posted Nov 22, 2019, 2:29 PM by Posts Editor
Spring Bay NewsletterIt’s always good to hear what our friends at Spring Bay (Triabunna) are up to. Their community boat shed is very similar to the LBT. Read all about it in the newsletter attached: https://tinyurl.com/uhb23j4
Posted Nov 22, 2019, 2:21 PM by Posts Editor
Small boat expeditions Summer 2019-20At the shed dinner last Monday (18 November) it was agreed that we would have our first overnight small boat expedition for the summer on the weekend of 6-8 December. Unfortunately we weren’t quick enough and the Scout house at Charlotte Cove is no longer available for that weekend. We hope to run a number of small boat expeditions during the summer. You could either bring your own boat, or come on one of the LBT’s fleet. There should be opportunities for those who want to row or sail – depending on whether there are enough similar-minded people to make a crew. We could even bring Nancy if the trip is within her range. If we go …
Posted Nov 22, 2019, 4:02 AM by Posts Editor
Sailing 18th NovemberIf the forecast is accurate we might be down to the third reef this afternoon. Turn up at noon at the pontoon and if it is looking too hairy we will do some maintenance on the boat.
Posted Nov 17, 2019, 12:36 PM by Posts Editor
More on the ‘Camino Voyage’ eveningBarb Dawson writes:‘Just talked with Paccy Stronach from Dunalley – he runs/owns the shipyard there, and is a boat builder and furniture maker. He and his wife are coming down for the movie. Paccy has agreed to give a 4-5 minute intro to curraghs before the film starts….AND off his own batt, he is bringing down his own 23 ft curragh!! Its a slightly smaller version of the one in the movie. So we will have TWO curraghs on display on the night. The film has been released internationally to great acclaim, and has won several awards at film festivals in New York, Luxembourg and Ireland. Winner – The Documentary Award – Irish Screen America Film Festival, NY Winner …
Posted Nov 17, 2019, 3:54 AM by Posts Editor
Reminder: Excursion with WBG to Huonville, Sunday 24thLorrie Harrison writes:‘At last an improvement in the weather, next Sunday is looking perfect for rowing, not windy, low chance of rain and around 15 degrees. We still have plenty of space in the skiffs and the Swiftsure for a Row in Company up to Huonville for lunch and back. The plan is to leave the LBT at 10am, just tell Lorrie if you want lunch and if you would like to join us for the row. (Lorrieharrison@tpg.com.au)’ See flyer for details: https://tinyurl.com/yx62j75e. There will be seats available on ‘Nancy’ for those who want to do it in style and don’t have their own boat.
Posted Nov 17, 2019, 2:19 PM by Posts Editor
Curragh movingBarb Dawson writes: ‘Removing one very dusty WBC curragh from its place high up in the rafters, ready to be displayed in the Palais Theatre for Camino Voyage movie evening on 23 November. Note traditional way of carrying a curragh i.e. over the head. No Guinness consumed during this manoeuvre.’ See series of pics from Barb below. And thanks to David Budd for organising this.
Posted Nov 16, 2019, 1:01 PM by Posts Editor
FlotationPiet Lunstedt gave us a pallet load of superseded life jackets with the idea that we could extract the flotation from them for use in the boats, but the job was sitting there waiting to be done until Phil rolled his sleeves up and hopped into it. Thanks Piet and Phil!
Posted Nov 13, 2019, 2:21 PM by Posts Editor
Thinking of our interstate membersAt its November meeting the LBT Committee paused to reflect on the plight of our interstate members and friends currently impacted by bushfire. We remember the generosity extended to the Living Boat Trust by so many members when the tawe nunnugah Raid was disrupted by the bushfires in southern Tasmania earlier this year. For the majority who escaped serious loss those fires now seem a distant memory – we can only hope that our interstate members will be as fortunate.
Posted Nov 13, 2019, 2:17 PM by Posts Editor
Call-Push-ShockCall – Push – Shock’ is an easy way to remember how you can help save a life. Call triple zero. Push: do CPR (chest compressions). Shock: use an AED (‘heart start machine’ or Automated External Defibrillator). A demonstration session on Saturday 23rd November will share information on what to do if someone near you is suffering a cardiac arrest – they will be unconscious and not breathing normally.Seconds count in a cardiac arrest. Starting CPR within 3-4 minutes may increase the chance of survival by up to 50 per cent! If someone near you has a cardiac arrest and you’re unsure or forget how to do CPR, that’s ok. Call triple zero and a call taker will guide …
Posted Nov 12, 2019, 4:46 AM by Posts Editor
LBT Committee Meeting this weekThere is an agenda being compiled at https://tinyurl.com/vu2l24s . Minutes for the last meeting can be viewed at https://tinyurl.com/y3yphuqv .
Posted Nov 10, 2019, 5:51 AM by Posts Editor
The Elephant is backGiven the vintage of our venerable Elephant bandsaw (40 years old!) we didn’t like the chances of returning it to operation after a backing plate shattered. However we reckoned without Kurt Hofler, who located a replacement part as well as a set of new bearings and had it back and working in time for Thursday night’s half model course. Thanks Kurt! Pic from Paul Frost
Posted Nov 10, 2019, 4:04 AM by Posts Editor
Reminder: ‘Camino Voyage’ Saturday Nov 23rdThe screening of this film (at the Palais) should be a great night. Deb Coomb writes: ‘This multi award winning documentary is a must see for anyone who believes they have Irish blood, dreamt about an adventure, travelled to France/Spain & fantasized walking the Camino Trail or just wants to be entertained. Synopsis: 5 Irishmen build a basic traditional Irish rowing boat (Curragh), then row this tiny vessel 2500kms from Ireland to Northern Spain.That’s the equivalent of rowing from Hobart to New Zealand. What makes this film so special?1: Music……. SENSATIONAL. If you love traditional Celtic music, then this film is for you. 2: Bravery……..Glen Hansard, who, without any boating experience, boldly steps in as a …
Posted Nov 16, 2019, 1:04 PM by Posts Editor
Sailing November 11thThe benchmark has been set for what constitutes a good destination for the Monday afternoon sail: the front bar at the Kermandie – see pic below. Let’s attempt it tomorrow. See you at the pontoon at 12 noon.
Posted Nov 10, 2019, 3:35 AM by Posts Editor
Kettering Wooden Boat Rally Feb ’20Gordon McGill writes:‘The Wooden Boat Guild of Tasmania and the Kettering Yacht Club is looking forward to hosting the Sixth Kettering Wooden Boat Rally. The focus of the event is for Wooden Boat Owners to get out on the water together for a weekend of messing about in wooden boats and meeting fellow enthusiasts in the evening to talk about all things woody.’ More details and booking form at https://www.trybooking.com/BGHDT
Posted Nov 9, 2019, 3:07 PM by Posts Editor
Goose winged jibs on CapricorniaUnlike most sailboats Capricornia has two jibs – an inner and an outer – which makes her a cutter. Part of the fun of sailing her is the extra options this offers. If you are sailing with the wind behind (downwind) then you can catch more of it by ‘goosewinging’ – one jib out one side and the other out the other side, as in the pic below. Pic from Pip Stevenson
Posted Nov 6, 2019, 3:13 AM by Posts Editor
Cruising logsDuring our Tawe Nunnugah raids we post a report at the end of each day to the website: see for instance https://tinyurl.com/yy6mk8ry These are generally fairly rushed missives, written in the midst of evening celebrations when the red wine is flowing and the distractions are many. Deb van Velsen has pointed us to a cruising log competition (https://tinyurl.com/y29n9m7d) run by the Scottish Coastal Rowing Association, the entries to which put our efforts in the shade. We were drawn, naturally, to the log of a cruise around the Hebrides in which several LBTers participated: https://tinyurl.com/y32qngpm . See pic below. But the winner was a Dutch team who wrote about their trip from Passau …
Posted Nov 6, 2019, 3:14 AM by Posts Editor
Downwind rowingThe 18 knot winds forecast for Wednesday would have been way too much for the On the Water students to row against, so we towed the boats and ferried the students (in Nancy) up the river and, more importantly upwind, then let them loose. They came home with a rush and were very happy punters. Pics from Jill Edwards
Posted Nov 6, 2019, 12:16 AM by Posts Editor
Swiftsure Regatta 15th DecemberThe Rowing subcommittee have set a date, and the 15th it is. Skiff Races, the Roger Harwood round Egg Island, sailing etc. Will also be a good time for the Christmas party animals to let loose. Pic from Zainab Clark
Posted Nov 10, 2019, 12:30 PM by Posts Editor
MAST – Notice to Mariners – Fish Farm Grid Can Missing (Garden Island)Mariners are advised that a large black grid can at Huon Aquaculture Company’s Garden Island lease has broken its mooring and is no longer in position. The marker is missing from approximate position -43 15.909 / 147 6.409 and the Company is making every effort to locate it as soon as possible.
Posted Nov 3, 2019, 4:03 AM by Posts Editor
Nothing like a topsail schoonerOn Sunday Rhona H was spotted sailing past Tinderbox on her way back to Hobart after a charter tour. What a sight.
Posted Nov 3, 2019, 3:46 AM by Posts Editor
Spring Bay Community Boat ShedNice to see a photo of our friends at Spring Bay (Triabunna) featured on the cover of the latest Tasmanian Men’s Shed Association news (pic below). To find out more about them and what they are up to there is a web page at http://triabunnavillage.com.au/spring-bay-community-boat-shed/ To find out more about about the Tassie Men’s Shedders see the newletters kicking around, or consult their website https://www.tasmanianmensshed.org.au/
Posted Nov 3, 2019, 3:38 AM by Posts Editor
Half model courseOn Thursday night Peter Laidlaw led the class through the intricacies of using boat plan specifications to mark up the layers of wood to be used for creating half models.
Posted Nov 3, 2019, 4:05 AM by Posts Editor
Sailing Monday 4th NovemberLooks like nice mild winds tomorrow, a contrast to last week when Capricornia spent a good deal of time with a reef in, her crew hiked out and still well heeled over. See you at noon.
Posted Nov 3, 2019, 2:44 AM by Posts Editor
It’s hell at the LBTDennis Muscovich demonstrates his preferred position in a Skiff (pic below). Dennis jetted off to view the antiquities in Egypt on Monday. We are expecting intelligence from him regarding Nile river craft, feluccas and the like.
Posted Oct 30, 2019, 8:30 PM by Posts Editor
Seen at the Bellerive Seafarers Festival The Wooden Boat Guild were exhibiting the recently restored piners’ punt shown in the pic below. They’ve tried to keep it as authentic as possible, with the new planks clearly different from the original. For those interested in these boats Graham Broxham from the Guild wrote the definitive book.
Posted Oct 30, 2019, 8:21 PM by Posts Editor
Movie at Palais 3rd November ‘Still Life’Team Movies writes: ‘Classic Movies is screening the polarising (either love it or loathe it) 2013 British drama ‘Still Life’. No surprises, I loved this film. Synopsis: Council case worker John May (Played by the fabulous Eddie Marsan) looks for the relatives of those found dead and alone in a London borough. (Courtesy IMDb). I know…..sounds lame and boring, but this film is anything but. Yes it is a slow burn, thoughtful, but I assure you it does pack a punch.’ Doors open 6.30pm. Film starts at 7.15pm. Admission: $5. Bar will be running with reasonably priced quality refreshments,offering the usual red/white/fizzy/beer/cider/tea/coffee/milky milo. Please bring a plate (with something …
Posted Oct 30, 2019, 7:53 PM by Richard Forster
19th Hole on Friday NightDrinkies and nibbles after a good row around north Egg Island. Who could ask for more? See you all at 5pm this coming Friday for when we do it all again. Pics from Pip Stevenson
Posted Oct 28, 2019, 3:15 AM by Posts Editor
End of Month Monday BBQDaylight saving season is here, the perfect time to bring some snags and something to share down to the LBT after 6pm and share nautical (and other) gossip with fellow LBTers. Pic from Sander van der Vel
Posted Oct 27, 2019, 1:57 PM by Posts Editor
Reefing Practice, Monday 28th OctoberIf the forecast is to be believed Capricornia could be down to a second reef when we take her out this afternoon. Come and learn (or be reminded) about how it is done at 12 noon for rigging up.
Posted Oct 27, 2019, 2:03 PM by Posts Editor
Billy at Bellerive Seafarers FestivalPip Stevenson might have had a little while to wait for the punters to get out of bed on Sunday morning, but when they did they came with a rush. There were crews lined up four deep waiting their turn to go out for a row. Billy was a hit. Thanks to Endra O’May for getting us all organised as well as the helpers who made our participation in this community event such a success. Pics from Pip Stevenson
Posted Oct 27, 2019, 1:59 PM by Posts Editor
Wooden Boat Guild Huonville Excursion November 24This now traditional excursion will proceed from Franklin to Huonville, leaving in time for a lunchtime picnic and returning for afternoon tea at the LBT. See attached poster for details: https://tinyurl.com/y4o9wspr Pic from Endra O’May
Posted Oct 25, 2019, 6:08 PM by Posts Editor
‘Castle in the Sky’, Saturday 26 October 6pm, at the PalaisSorry about the late notice: just spotted this free premier screening of a film about the ‘Geeveston Castle’ being built by Francis and Christina (who work at the Wooden Boat Centre).
Posted Oct 25, 2019, 2:46 PM by Posts Editor
‘Camino Voyage’ at the Palais, 23rd NovemberBarb Dawson writes: ‘Important date foryour diary. The only Tasmanian screening of themulti-award winning Camino Voyage. An epic tale of constructing and rowing atraditional Irish curragh from Ireland to Spain. A film not to be missed – see trailer https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tW4WJbHy86A . Tickets only $10. Pay at the door or bookonline at eventbrite.com.au/e/78320922989 . For more information visit the Palaiswebsite https://franklinpalais.com.au/upcoming-events/ ‘ Doors open 6.30pm, film starts 7.30pm Synopis: ‘A crew including a Writer, two Musicians, an Artist and a Stonemason embark on the Camino by sea, in a traditional boat that they built themselves on an inspiring, and dangerous, 2,500 …
Posted Oct 25, 2019, 2:36 PM by Posts Editor
Australian Wooden Boat Festival never sleepsWe might only be aware of the Festival every two years around February, but of course this is the culmination lots of planning and work. There has been a changing of the guard recently, with Paul Cullen stepping down as manager and Paul Stephanus stepping up. Paul Stephanus will be coming for dinner at the LBT on the 2nd December. To catch up on other Festival news see www.australianwoodenboatfestival.com.au/news .
Posted Oct 23, 2019, 6:19 PM by Posts Editor
Port Townsend Wooden Boat Festival PhotosIf you want to wallow in wooden boat photos you could do worse than pointing your browser at https://flic.kr/s/aHsmH4vz9e . Port Townsend is the home of our American friends who were with us last summer. Thanks to Garry McDonald for pointing this one out to us. Pic from John Kohnen
Posted Oct 23, 2019, 2:50 PM by Posts Editor
Visitors from American RiverFor some time there have been rumors of a replica sealing boat, the 35 ton Independence, being built at American River on Kangaroo Island. Last night at dinner we heard all about the project from Kevin and Yvonne who come from that part of the world. Looks like good progress is being made: see pics below. To find out more check the website: http://rebuildindependence.org/home. Also of interest is that they have built a St Ayles Skiff – not currently being used (shame!). Pics from http://rebuildindependence.org
Posted Oct 23, 2019, 2:55 PM by Posts Editor
Draft October committee meeting minutesThese have been posted to the usual folder on the web site: lbt.org.au => Resources => 2018-19 Committee Meeting Minutes. Or get them directly at https://tinyurl.com/y3yphuqv
Posted Oct 20, 2019, 3:30 PM by Posts Editor
Sailing Monday 21st OctoberPip Stevenson writes: “I’m back and we will take Capricornia out at the earlier time of 12 noon. Bring you raincoat as the weatherman says anything could happen, and probably will.”
Posted Oct 19, 2019, 4:38 AM by Posts Editor
Helpers wanted for the Bellerive Seafarers Festival October 27This is a really nice family oriented festival (https://tinyurl.com/y32mmfpc), and for the last several years the mums, dads and kids have enjoyed having a row in one of our Skiffs. It is amazing how for many this is the first time they have been on the water. Endra is coordinating this year, and is looking for a couple more assistants to get the job done. If you can help out please submit your name and contact details through the form below (https://tinyurl.com/y3c8ju2r). (p.s. It’s a lot of fun!)
Posted Oct 18, 2019, 11:06 PM by Posts Editor
History of ‘Gretchen’A visit to Franklin by Colin Harding during which he spotted ‘Gretchen’ tied up to the pontoon prompted him to query us to find out if she had been built by his stepfather Claude Wright. A batch of documents in a file that had been forwarded to Martin Riddle confirmed that indeed she had – in Anglesea Army Barracks in the late ’50’s, with original name Reangle. The picture below shows her approaching completion, Claude Wright being the darker of the two men standing beside her. The Gretchen webpage (https://tinyurl.com/yysehmjw) has been updated using all this new information, and includes a link to all the newly collated documents and pictures (https://tinyurl.com/y4zwgpcq). Delve here for …
Posted Oct 20, 2019, 1:39 PM by Posts Editor
Friday night rowingLast Friday saw the first of what we hope will be many evening rows for the season. See the poster below for details (https://tinyurl.com/y247wo5r).
Posted Oct 14, 2019, 4:35 AM by Posts Editor
Half Model CourseBoat designers used to carve the plans for their boats rather than drawing them. It is a real skill, and Peter Laidlaw is offering to teach LBT members how to do it. If you are interested enter your name and contact details by submitting the form below (https://tinyurl.com/y495pq9n). Half model of Montagu Whaler made by Bert van Baar
Posted Oct 11, 2019, 8:15 PM by Posts Editor
Reserve your boat’s berth in a new bookOld friend of the LBT Andrew Wilson writes:‘Classic Wooden Boats of Tasmania is a new work being created by local photographer and author Andrew Wilson (Old Sea Dogs of Tasmania), documenting the stunning array of wooden craft that reside in Tasmania and their custodians. Each vessel will be photographed under passage (powered by sail or motor depending on the craft), along with portraits of each owner – weather-beaten hats and faces welcome! Accompanying these images will be the history of each vessel which Andrew is asking the owners themselves to assist with.’Register here: https://andrewwilsonphotography.com.au/classic-wooden-boats-of-tasmania/ Pic from Andrew Wilson
Posted Oct 11, 2019, 4:21 PM by Posts Editor
Celebrating 10 years of rowingLorrie Harrison writes:‘On 12 October, 2009 women’s rowing started! That deserves a cup of tea and a piece of cake! Even if you haven’t been for a long, long time, come on down this Friday at 9am for social rowing and we will follow it with a cup of tea and some cake. Especially like to see some of those rowers from 10 years ago. I think I am the only one still going to social rowing.’
Posted Oct 8, 2019, 3:11 PM by Posts Editor
Opportunity to crew on NancySeniors Week begins next Monday 14th of October and runs thru until the following Sunday 20th. We will be taking Nancy out from 1.30 – 3.00pm each day. If you are able to assist, either as crew or as shore support, please complete the form at https://tinyurl.com/yxfsjkqp
Posted Oct 6, 2019, 5:49 AM by Posts Editor
Helpers needed for On the Water ProgramThis program starts next week, and as can be seen by checking the spreadsheet which follows we do not have enough people to run it. If you can help out that would be great: register yourself using the form below (https://tinyurl.com/y48cy6lh).
Posted Oct 6, 2019, 5:39 AM by Posts Editor
Committee meeting this coming ThursdaySee the minutes for the last meeting at https://tinyurl.com/yxrckmkx. An agenda for the meeting on Thursday 10th October is being prepared at https://tinyurl.com/yyxbj42x
Posted Oct 6, 2019, 4:35 AM by Posts Editor
Sailing Monday 2 pm 7 OctThe MetEye wind forecast for Monday 7 October is favourable at 10-15kn NW butthere is a 25-50% chance of rain between 1300 and 1600. If it’s not raining andthere are no large storms heading our way visible on the rain radar we’ll besailing – meet at the shed at 2pm. Everyone welcome.
Posted Oct 5, 2019, 4:55 PM by Martin Riddle
Nancy to Port Huon – all welcomeNancy has been invited to the season opening of the Huon Yacht Club on Saturday 5 October. We can take 12 people plus the crew of two. If you wish to join us, register as ‘Deck-hand’ on the Nancy sign-up form at:http://tiny.cc/qgcudzPlaces are limited so preference will be given to those that sign up first. If completing the sign-up form is too difficult, just turn up and we will take you if we still have room. We leave the pontoon at 1030 am.Boats will muster in the vicinity of Hospital bay at around 12 noon with the sail past at 12:30. Nancy will then come alongside at the jetty outside …
Posted Oct 6, 2019, 4:27 AM by Posts Editor
Press ganged back packersLast week the sailing crew was a little low on numbers so we kidnapped a few unfortunates who were wandering along the shore. You can see from the pic how miserable they were.
Posted Sep 29, 2019, 4:55 PM by Posts Editor
Brew your own Monday night dinnerJust a reminder that this is the last Monday of the month, so the cook gets a break. Bring something to throw on the barby and something to share. And a billy should you choose to make a brew on a fire.
Posted Sep 29, 2019, 4:57 PM by Posts Editor
Monday Sailing – 2pm everyone welcome 30/9The forecast looks good. If you fancy a sail meet at the shed at 2pm, Monday 30 September.
Posted Sep 29, 2019, 4:40 PM by Martin Riddle
Mini NZ Raid October 17th-20thFrom the NZ Coastal Rowing Website: ‘NZ Coastal rowing is intending to take part in the 250th celebrations in Whitianga Coromandel, marking the arrival of Captain Cook and the Bark Endeavour to New Zealand in 1769. Thanks to Baden Pascoe preparations are well underway for a mini Raid at Whitianga starting on Thursday 17th October and finishing Sunday 20th. As most people can only make it for the weekend we have modified the plan to suit. The Updated General plan is as follows,’For more details see https://nzcoastalrowing.org/2019/09/24/cooks-250th-celebrations-update/ . Many LBT members have been on previous raids with the NZders, and can attest to the fact that they do a great job …
Posted Sep 24, 2019, 2:13 PM by Posts Editor
Join the ‘On the Water’ (OWP19) ProgramPlanning for this rowing program for school children has been progressing, with our first day scheduled for 16th October. The Tuesday group and Mike Dredge have been sorting out boats and oars. A short introduction session for school staff will be run this coming Wednesday (25th Sept) using the Volunteer Induction Notes (https://tinyurl.com/y8bl3q42) as a reference. Southerly Doling is conducting a full, 2 hour induction on Thursday morning (26th Sept, 10am). This is intended particularly for LBT volunteers.Please sign up using the form below (https://tinyurl.com/y5xoexdd), and tell us which dates you can be available on. To find out more go to the program webpage (https://tinyurl.com/y63d7b3q). An OWP19 button has been …
Posted Sep 22, 2019, 3:14 PM by Posts Editor
Monday Sailing, Sept 23Forecast is that the rain should have cleared and there will be a nice WSW breeze. Let’s get down to the pontoon at 2pm.
Posted Sep 21, 2019, 1:48 PM by Posts Editor
Getting ready for springSwiftsure and Monty might look a bit blotchy at the moment, but they’ve both had their garboards fixed and a new coat of antifoul applied, and with Kurt and the team on the job they’ll be ready soon.
Posted Sep 20, 2019, 3:41 PM by Posts Editor
Abel Day at the LBTOn Thursday the LBT was privileged to host Chris Abel and his Barbershop Choir from the Sunshine Coast. They are in Tasmania for a singers gathering. Chris is the great-grandson of Tucker Abel who built the Nancy, and this was a long awaited, and emotional, opportunity to see the boat. We were able to give him two for one, as Dave Conway brought Eva Blanche, another Tucker Abel boat, up to the pontoon. That’s Chris in the orange rainjacket in the pics below. The choir gave us a couple of tunes, and then we we were off for a cruise in company around the Egg Islands and back through the canal. We topped off the morning in the …
Posted Sep 21, 2019, 4:35 AM by Posts Editor
Where’s Wally?We tracked him down (Peter Laidlaw that is) in the bowels of Mistral II, a project boat being restored for the Windeward Bound Trust. Pete and David Nash are the supervising boatbuilders – see https://www.windewardbound.com.au/mistral-ii for more details. As is apparent from the last pic below, Mystral II is berthed just behind the May Queen in Constitution Dock. Pic from Endra O’May
Posted Sep 21, 2019, 4:27 AM by Posts Editor
The Great River RaceBarb Dawson draws attention to this race on the Thames – see https://youtu.be/WXyHbw-w5uM . Maybe we need to enter a crew sometime in the future if we can organise borrowing a boat: it looks like fun! ‘The Great River Race is an annual competition held on London’s River Thames. Any traditional-style coxed boat propelled by oars or paddles can take part. The competition was started in 1988 and covers 21 miles.’
Posted Sep 15, 2019, 4:42 PM by Posts Editor
Monday sailing, 2pm Sept 16thRain is forecast to clear and moderate breezes forecast to arrive. Let’s get down to the pontoon and get sailing this afternoon.
Posted Sep 15, 2019, 4:25 PM by Posts Editor
LBT Committee meeting Wed 18th SeptThere is a draft agenda (still being worked on) at https://tinyurl.com/y2rnz6be . Send any extra business to sec@lbt.org.au.
Posted Sep 15, 2019, 5:20 AM by Posts Editor
World Skiffies short videoKarl Gallienne alerted to this one, which captures the spirit of the event pretty well: https://youtu.be/9v4ZO-0EC94
Posted Sep 14, 2019, 7:32 PM by Posts Editor
Barbershop choir on the Nancy on Thursday morningChris Tucker, the great grandson of Tucker Abel who built the ‘Nancy’, will be bringing his choir down to perform on Nancy on Thursday morning (19th Sept) early: around 8.30 to 9am at this stage. Should be good fun – come down and have a listen! If you are a ‘Barbershop’ fan you might also be interested in the Barbershop Harmony Festival which they are participating in: www.barbershopconvention.com.au . Pic from https://www.sunshinestatesmen.com
Posted Sep 14, 2019, 6:45 PM by Posts Editor
Posting the news at the shedOur ‘in the shed’ correspondent reports. ‘The LBT has a new notice board. Design and construction courtesy of the Tuesday group. No more notices being stuck to the windows!’
Posted Sep 14, 2019, 6:46 PM by Posts Editor
Minutes, minutes, minutesLots of organising at this time of year: draft minutes from August LBT committee meeting https://tinyurl.com/yywe9tfy; minutes for the Nancy Fanciers meeting – https://tinyurl.com/y25y34ac; minutes for the On the Water program meeting – https://tinyurl.com/y25fq768.
Posted Sep 2, 2019, 3:33 PM by Posts Editor
Monday 2nd Sept sailing, 2pmLooks like a very calm day on the river, but we are hoping the breeze might get up in the afternoon. Convene at the pontoon at 2pm. All welcome. Pic from Pip Stevenson
Posted Sep 1, 2019, 6:53 AM by Posts Editor
Reminder: On the Water planning meeting 5.30pm Monday 2nd SeptBasil van Reit has sent us the draft timetable attached: https://tinyurl.com/yym5mc8v . He suggests that the first day should be October 16th which presents us with our first problem as it clashes with Seniors Week. Come along and be part of the planning for this year’s programme: see you at the Shed at 5.30. If you haven’t already registered to be part of this year’s programme you can do so using the form below.
Posted Sep 1, 2019, 6:18 AM by Posts Editor
Reminder: LBT AGM Saturday 31st August6.00pm at the Franklin Bowls Club opposite the Palais, 3395 Huon Hwy Franklin. See the agenda, treasurer’s report etc at https://tinyurl.com/y36tpdol We will be moving things along so that we can join the Wattle Day Dance social immediately afterwards: https://tinyurl.com/y6ra52yz . Bring a plate.
Posted Aug 29, 2019, 6:05 PM by Posts Editor
Signal flag testSpotted at the Wooden Boat Centre. What do the flags in the pic below say?
Posted Aug 29, 2019, 6:15 AM by Posts Editor
Council votes to sell or give away historic Julie BurgessOur man on the north coast Graham Norris rang to point out this story. All the details can be read in ‘The Advocate’: https://www.theadvocate.com.au/story/6349328/iconic-tall-ship-julie-burgess-for-sale/ . Last time we were aboard she was in excellent condition: might be a real opportunity for somebody with the right plan. Pic from ‘the Advocate’
Posted Aug 29, 2019, 3:11 AM by Posts Editor
Hexahut ProjectLBT member Steve Cameron brought a model of his ‘Hexahut’ to dinner last night – see pic below. From the project website: ‘HexaHuts are a comfortable and affordable yet very simple housing solution. This is a public-good project, as a Hexayurt variant, this project will extend the Hexayurt family of open source shelter designs. The HexaHut takes the key idea of the Hexayurt – very effective use of off-the-shelf building panels – adds unique design and manufacturing to give an appealing prefabricated hut.The HexaHut Project will take this unique housing concept to prototype and then to production stages.’ Steve explained that the key component of the hut is the standard plywood sheet – all the dimensions are based around that …
Posted Aug 26, 2019, 4:11 PM by Posts Editor
Distant LBT members columnMany LBT members and Franklin residents will remember John and Jane Walduck very fondly – they were great contributors to our organisation and the town over many years. They moved back to Kingaroy, Queensland a few years ago for family reasons. Shane and Jane Johnson recently visited and sent back the attached pics. Shane says ‘this is the Walducks with Gracie. Kingaroy is the peanut capital and home of BaconFest and has nearby Bjelke Peterson dam where John sails Gracie’.
Posted Sep 1, 2019, 4:08 PM by Posts Editor
Fuel at the LBTWe recently sauntered down to the ever reliable ‘Rowan’ to take a Tas Land Conservancy crew out for a familiarisation run and … she wouldn’t go. After a lot of faffing about is turned out to be water (and gunge) in the fuel. A filter funnel was purchased and when the contents of the tank were run through it look what we found (see pic below). After the event the wiseacres told us that this is a common problem in the Huon Valley. If you have any doubts in future use the funnel. Pip Stevenson has also donated a jiggler hose for transferring fuel – thanks Pip. See second pic. Bailey Marine, who helped us out, told us that it’s …
Posted Aug 25, 2019, 4:30 PM by Posts Editor
Heads down on Monday eveningThe keel on the ‘Viking’ was the centre of attention for the work crew. Come down and join them on any Monday evening at 5pm to help get our fleet up to scratch. Pic from Gary Macdonald
Posted Aug 25, 2019, 3:51 PM by Posts Editor
End of month Monday 26th BBQCook’s day off. Bring something to share and something to put on the hot plate. See you after 6.30pm. Pic by Sander van der Wel from Wikimedia Commons
Posted Aug 25, 2019, 3:45 AM by Posts Editor
Sailing Monday 26th AugustPip Stevenson writes: ‘Ahoy me hearties. Rug up warm for Monday and we will have a great arvo on the water. NW 15-20 knots. See you at the pontoon at noon’.
Posted Aug 25, 2019, 4:56 PM by Posts Editor
On the Water Programme 2019For those who don’t know, the LBT has for many years run a very successful spring rowing programme for local schools. Introducing children to the ‘on the water’ paradise in which we live is one of our best activities, and Basil van Reit from Huonville Primary School has recently been in contact to say that he is very keen to do it all again. If you would like to be involved, and we encourage everybody, please enter your name in the form below: https://tinyurl.com/y2opxe3y There will be an initial planning meeting at the shed on Monday 2nd September at 5.30pm. To find out more about the programme see the website: https://tinyurl.com/y89nvrn …
Posted Aug 24, 2019, 6:33 PM by Posts Editor
Community GrantsThere are many grant opportunities for community organisations such as the LBT. As an example, our local Federal MP has recently made us aware of the ‘Stronger Communities Programme’ under which grants from $2,500 to $20,000 are available – the conditions and details can be found in the attached document: https://tinyurl.com/y427vsja. Taking advantage of such grants requires time, work and administration, and consequently we do not apply for them lightly. Where we have been successful in winning them in the past they have been of great benefit, funding everything from from sending boats to mainland regattas to extending the shed. LBT members who think we ‘shoulda’ done something if only we had the readies which ‘coulda …
Posted Aug 24, 2019, 6:00 PM by Posts Editor
Nancy planning meeting Monday 26th 5.30pmA new season is coming up and, thanks to the Tuesday group, Nancy is in good shape to participate in it. First major event is Seniors Week in mid October. Come down and join the Nancy Fanciers to plot out what else we should do with the old girl. See draft agenda attached: https://tinyurl.com/y4b7xrtn
Posted Aug 25, 2019, 4:52 PM by Posts Editor
Change of plans for LBT social 31st AugustA number of members have pointed out that our quiz night, scheduled to follow the AGM, clashes with the Wattle Dance at the Palais on the same evening. This event has been organised by old friend of the LBT Pat Synge. No point in having dueling socials. After the AGM we will take the plates for supper we have brought with us and walk the 50 meters across the road to join the hoofers. See the poster for details: https://tinyurl.com/y6ra52yz
Posted Aug 23, 2019, 7:02 PM by Posts Editor
Sailing 19th AugustPip has popped his head out the window and stuck a wet finger in the breeze this morning, and says that there has been excellent winter sailing on days such as these in the last month. Sailors to convene at the pontoon at 12 noon. See you there.
Posted Aug 18, 2019, 3:58 PM by Posts Editor
World Skiffies ReportThere have been a number of brief reports from the St Ayles Skiff Championships held at Stranraer in July. Jane Johnson has supplied a much fuller one: read it at https://tinyurl.com/y3yybb5p
Posted Aug 18, 2019, 3:59 PM by Posts Editor
Kerrawyn 70th birthday lunch 8th SeptemberDave Golding, who restored this beautiful ketch, is planning a celebration and fund raiser. See invitation attached: https://tinyurl.com/y3tzawch
Posted Aug 18, 2019, 11:50 PM by Posts Editor
‘Sing for your supper’ Monday eveningPeter Laidlaw and Dennis Muscovich are starting a Monday evening work group. Come down and join them around 5pm to do some boat maintenance and help get things organised for the coming season.
Posted Aug 11, 2019, 3:19 PM by Posts Editor
Winter sailing is on: 12 noonRug up and join the intrepid crew of Capricornia today Monday 12th August at the wharf.
Posted Aug 11, 2019, 3:00 PM by Posts Editor
LBT Committee meeting 15th AugustThere is a draft agenda at https://tinyurl.com/y2mbx6wg . Send extra items for discussion to sec@lbt.org.au
Posted Aug 11, 2019, 2:41 PM by Posts Editor
LBT AGM planned for August 31stWe are planning to hold the 2019 AGM at the Franklin Bowls Club at 6pm on the evening of Saturday 31st August – put it in your diary. Documents relating to this meeting are being collected at https://tinyurl.com/y36tpdolThe agenda includes the presentation of the treasurer’s and president’s reports, and the election of a new committee. Please consider standing. Take the opportunity to be in a position to promote and implement those ideas that you know would improve the place. Have a chatter to anybody on the current committee to find out more about it – their names are listed on the website (https://tinyurl.com/yd9e82t8) . The nomination form can be downloaded from https://tinyurl.com …
Posted Aug 9, 2019, 5:36 AM by Posts Editor
MAST – Notice to Mariners – Navigation Aids – Huon RiverMariners are advised of the following aids re-established on the Huon River: • No 4 Huon River – has been altered to an unlit starboard buoy in position 43 06.344S, 147 00.197E. • No 7 Huon River, Castle Forbes Bay – has been altered to an unlit starboard buoy in position 43 08.185S, 146 59.166E.
Posted Aug 11, 2019, 3:01 PM by Posts Editor
Strange visitorThe floating fish and chip shop from Huonville was damaged in a flood, and DPIPWE have hauled it ashore just downstream from the LBT shed so they can assess what to do with it. Watch out for the ruts left by the crane. Pic from Graham Wright
Posted Aug 7, 2019, 4:05 PM by Posts Editor
Work at the ShedGraham Wright from the Tuesday group reports:Viking getting prepared for new coats of paint before being turned over for work on the keel. Absent friends getting pressure washed.
Posted Aug 7, 2019, 3:59 PM by Posts Editor
MAST notice: navigation aid destroyed – Huon RiverMariners are advised that the number 7 starboard lateral pile located in Castle Forbes Bay on the Huon River in position 43 degrees 08.185S, 146 degrees 59.166E has been destroyed. A further notice to mariners will be issued when a new navigation aid is established in position.
Posted Aug 5, 2019, 4:47 PM by Posts Editor
The Tuesday Tales (cont.)As noted earlier this week, the lost tales of the Tuesday group have been found and are now available for all of us to enjoy. Heres a few from 23 July.At last Viking heads into the shed. Being a heavy boat this was not an easy move, only 50mm or so room both sides so some good driving skills were required.Muscle power for the final positioning. Plan is for a group including Peter and Dennis to do some work on Mondays as well as the Tuesday group to speed things up.After a brief rest the same muscle turned Billie over for the work to continue.Punto looking resplendant in the new colours
Posted Jul 30, 2019, 8:39 PM by Posts Editor
A bigger hammerLBT member Lachlan Carlson seems to have taken to heart the old adage that the solution to an intractable problem is a bigger hammer . You can see his point when you observe the size of the ribs he has to ‘tap’ into place (second pic below). The boat is the ‘Western Flyer’, the vessel which was central to Steinbeck’s ‘Log from the Sea of Cortez’. It is currently in a yard in Port Townsend, Washington State, USA, Lachlan’s home port. LBT members may remember Lachlan as one of the team of boat builders we hosted over summer.
Posted Jul 30, 2019, 8:06 PM by Posts Editor
Sailing CapricorniaAnother fabulous sail this Monday (29 July) beating down towards Castle Forbes and reaching back to Franklin in variables up to 15kts, shaking out a reef and demonstrating heaving to with the jib aback on the way. Thanks to Jenni, Nick, Rob, Paul and Tom and apologies to Steve who missed the boat!Pip
Posted Jul 30, 2019, 4:41 AM by Posts Editor
The Tuesday Saga (16 July) – lost but now found!You might have thought that the Tuesday group had been a bit quiet, but not so. It seems the gremlins of the ether had been swallowing the messages and the story was not being told. But Lo… Graham W has persisted and the story can now be shared, with pictures no less!Nancy was booked out today (Tuesday 16 July) which made berthing a bit tricky due to the strong river flow and the northerly breeze. The Tuesday group were on hand to assist and all went well.Punto looking great in her new livery and close to be relaunched.Huon Explorer needs another coat of green gloss and all will be done.A member of the Tuesday Group has …
Posted Jul 30, 2019, 11:37 PM by Posts Editor
FunnieS at Frank’s – National Science WeekDave Moore, the man behind FunnieS at Franks writes to thank those who have supported the program which brings (Hobart and beyond) comedy acts to the valley, and to pass on a heads up about the next one on the 15th of August. There’s also some background info about the program and a ….discount! Please consider!“Hi,Thanks for printing and displaying FunnieS flyers, I hope you can help out again.I can’t physically get everywhere I want and need to in the valley to display flyers.The success of each event determines whether I can do the next one :-)NOTE:—–FunnieS at Frank’s is done for the love of it.Frank’s makes no money out …
Posted Jul 29, 2019, 4:49 PM by Posts Editor
Tasmanian Men’s Sheds Association next Southern Get togetherOf particular interest to the Tuesday group and in general to all LBT members: Keith Ellis, Secretary, Tasmanian Men’s Sheds Association has written to advise that the next Southern Get together is being held on Thursday 22 August at the Derwent Valley Men’s Shed.An agenda is included below. Keith asks if we could advise if our shed will be attending.Keith’s contact details are:Keith EllisSecretaryTasmanian Men’s Sheds AssociationM: 0417572668GPO Box 344Hobart, TAS, 7001secretary.tmsa@gmail.comhttps://www.tasmanianmensshed.org.au/AGENDA TMSA Southern Member Sheds Delegates Get Together Thursday 22 August 2019TMSA Southern Member ShedsDelegates Get TogetherLocation:- Derwent Valley Men’s Shed 103 Blair …
Posted Jul 28, 2019, 4:09 AM by Posts Editor
News from the Spring Bay Community Boat ShedLots of news in our inbox! This one is from the The Spring Bay Community Boat Shed with their Daysheet letting us know whats on the program at the moment through to the New Year. From David and The SBCBS CrewJIGSAW INVOLVEMENTS “…fitting in to complete your picture ” David Gatenby P.O. Box 153 Orford Tasmania 7190 Ph. 0428391432
Posted Jul 28, 2019, 3:12 AM by Posts Editor
July update from the Franklin Working Waterfront AssociationHere’s the July update from the Franklin Working Waterfront Association letting us know the latest news and giving us a heads up about membership renewals and Annual General Meetings, membership of subcommittees and volunteers at the Wooden Boat Centre. if you are interested in any of these roles, an email or phone call on the contact details at the bottom of the newsletter should get things going. Or perhaps you could just drop in!AGM and FWWA membershipThe 2019 Franklin Working Waterfront Association AGM will be held at 2:30pm on the 29th of September at the Wooden Boat Centre. This is the time for anyone interested in joining the Committee to put their hand up! The Committee …
Posted Jul 28, 2019, 2:49 AM by Posts Editor
AMMC Workshop on building Educational or Public programs (@Devonport)An invite has been received from the Australian Maritime Museums Council for anyone interested in a workshop at Devenport on “How to build an Educational or Public Program from Scratch”.“Come join us for the next AMMC Regional Workshop hosted by the Bass Strait Maritime Centre on Thursday 31st October and Friday 1st November 2019. Travel to Devonport – Northern Tasmania, may be required, so we recommend considering arrival in Devonport on the 30th October 2019. The theme of the Workshop is centered on ‘How to build an Educational or Public Program from scratch’. The Workshop will feature plenty of delegate interaction, participation, and learning with a range of experienced and interesting Workshop leaders. The Workshop begins on the morning of …
Posted Jul 24, 2019, 6:16 PM by Posts Editor
Monday night at the LBTAlways a fun night for the Monday night meal. Kate cooked up a fine feast and it was most excellent to be sharing it with some of our overseas travellers.
Posted Jul 24, 2019, 5:32 PM by Posts Editor
Capricornia – Monday sailingPip reports that it was awesome sailing in Capricornia today (Monday 22 July) with Nick, Henk, Tom, Rob and Pip. (Photo by Wunjo)
Posted Jul 24, 2019, 5:21 PM by Posts Editor
World Skiffies Women’s over 50 eventFirst thing to mention is that the organisers brought the final of the women’s over 50s event forward a day because Friday’s weather was forecast as rubbish meaning that the race, repercharge and final were all within a few hours. Our heat was at 12 and was the heat from hell with 4 of the 5 favourites to win the event in it and only 3 going straight through to the final. Also it was quite squally at the time. Result – we came in 5th – so into the repechage . Any other heat and we would have gone straight through based on our times.2.5 hours later we were backing up for the repecharge in much friendlier conditions …
Posted Jul 21, 2019, 4:15 PM by Posts Editor
Summary Report from the World SkiffiesWhen we arrived in Scotland to attend the World Skiffies at Stranraer Ali Grant warned us that the Scottish rowing community had gone mad, and had been training dawn and dusk for months. From her window over Portobello beach that evening and the next morning we watched crews out on the water who were intimidatingly fit and drilled. And that was part of the story at Stranraer. Competition was fierce, and even making it to a division final required getting past up to 48 crews. And when the spray settled it turned out that the Irish had taken it even more even more seriously than the Scots and that the winning club was Dundrum.By far the best result for …
Posted Jul 21, 2019, 4:16 PM by Posts Editor
News from the MAWBFFor those not on the MyState Australian Wooden Boat Festival mailing list, here’s a heads up to the contents of the latest newsletter. In the 16/7/2019 edition: New Video from Off Center Harbor (“Storm Bay”) Australia Project Gets Up The Voyages of a Dockmaster Riawe: A Tassie Legend Thanks, Hobart A Thousand Words and More Message from the Chairman – July 2019 GM’s Log – July 2019*Pic compilation from images from MAWBF newsletter
Posted Jul 16, 2019, 8:53 PM by Posts Editor
Monday night at the LBT (15 July)The wind might blow, it might rain and snow, but a winter meal in good company at the LBT on a Monday night is well worth venturing out for. Here’s a quick snapshot taken by Pip. Take a look at the fearless few and note that they have largely taken different seats from last Monday. Either they are playing musical chairs or perhaps they really do go home afterwards. No Hotel California here 🙂
Posted Jul 16, 2019, 8:13 PM by Posts Editor
Golden Oldies? (WorldSkiffies record set by LBT crew!)Over on the WhatsApp media channel Deb van Velzen reports that a record time for an LBT crew was set by this Over 60 Mens team!
Posted Jul 11, 2019, 3:39 AM by Posts Editor
2019-20 Membership DuesWhilst the secretary has been away in Europe ignoring his duties (such as sending out reminder notices), the 2018-19 financial year has ended, meaning that it is now time for LBT members to pay their dues for 2019. The membership rates are $70Au family, $40Au individual.There are a number of ways of doing this (make sure there is sufficient information included to identify you). * Cheque sent to 3337 Huon Hwy Franklin Tasmania 7113 * By Electronic Funds Transfer (EFT) using your online bank account: BENDIGO BANK HUONVILLE BRANCH BSB 633-000 AC 149496275 LIVING BOAT TRUST * In an envelope deposited through the mailbox slot at the LBT office.
Posted Jul 14, 2019, 5:46 PM by Posts Editor
TN19 (The Snug Raid) videoSaul has just posted up a video on YouTube of the Tawe Nunnuga 2019 (otherwise known as the Snug Raid) Nice work Saul! https://youtu.be/4AhnOhnYUd4
Posted Jul 10, 2019, 6:50 PM by Posts Editor
Skiffies report on the BBCOur man in Scotland has passed on a link to a BBC news article on the World Skiffies – have a look – you might spot some locals :-)https://tinyurl.com/y388856j
Posted Jul 10, 2019, 6:38 PM by Posts Editor
Skiffie Championship Results 2019For those interested, results for the championships are being posted on the Scottish Coastal Rowing website at https://scottishcoastalrowing.org/ . Look in the ‘Recent Posts’ column on the right hand side. Day 1 features the accompanying pic of the Tassie flag being born ashore by the Castle Forbes crew.
Posted Jul 10, 2019, 3:08 AM by Posts Editor
Monday night dinners at the LBTNo matter the time of year the Monday night dinner is an LBT institution. Its a great way for long standing members to get together and catch up over a very tasty meal. Its also a great way to introduce new members and visitors to our traditions. Tonight the winter chill was fended off by a glass of Gluhwein. It certainly hit the spot; thanks Kate!
Posted Jul 8, 2019, 4:39 AM by Posts Editor
A beachful of SkiffsWord has it that there are 700 crews partipating in the St Ayles Skiff championships in Stranrear (Scotland). They have set up 16 lanes in order to cope. Could be chaos at the turning buoys. No turns required for the opening ceremony row past, and all went according to plan.
Posted Jul 8, 2019, 4:25 AM by Posts Editor
FunnieS at Frank’s x 2 (Twice the Fun!)Attached are flyers for the next 2 FunnieS at Frank’s.Damian Callinan on the 25th of July and National Science Week Special Event on the 15th of August.NOTE / IMPORTANT: There is a special 2 show for one low price deal available through Trybooking Online buying only. Both shows for $30 per person. ( show is usually $23. So a big saving there.) https://www.trybooking.com/BBTKL – Damian Callinan on the 25th Julyhttps://www.trybooking.com/BDDHJ – National Science Week show on the 15th August
Posted Jul 4, 2019, 8:02 PM by Posts Editor
Familiar boat, wrong hemisphere.A couple of LBTers at large spotted a familiar looking boat in Reykjavick (Iceland) harbour (pics below), and on investigation it proved to be the Sea Shepherd ‘s ‘Brigitte Bardot’ which has in the past tied up in and operated from Hobart. She has been in Iceland to disrupt the Minke Whale season, which did not go ahead this year, probably because of economic considerations, but a victory of sorts. Her next port of call is, apparently, in the Galapagos Islands to confront illegal fishers there. Just across the harbour is the ‘opposition’: a commercial whaling vessel, also pictured. And to fill out the ‘confrontation at sea’ story, the ‘Odinn’ is berthed in a prominent position. She was a major …
Posted Jul 4, 2019, 7:35 PM by Posts Editor
Remember these young men?Some people may remember a group of young journeyman Dutch boatbuilders who came to Monday night dinner a year or so back, on the advice of their teacher Bert van Baar. They have just completed their final project boat back in Amsterdam. It was commissioned by the Monet museum. Apparently Monet had an ‘Amsterdam period’ during which he often took out a particular small boat sailing and daubing, and then also included it in some of his paintings. What the lads have done is build a replica – see pic below. Also worth looking at some of the other project boats pictured. The students have all done 2 years furniture building and it shows.
Posted Jul 1, 2019, 7:09 PM by Posts Editor
LBT burgee in exotic places column.Our man in the Hebrides has filed this report on a fine northern raid:This is Temple Beach on Little Bernera Island in the outer Hebrides. The villagers from across the loch used to ferry their dead here to be buried. Charlie Green stands by ‘Florence’, upon which the burgee flew. Charlie was her principle builder. Florence was rowed to this beach as part of a Raid organised by Murdo Macleod, (pictured above hauling in yet another mackerel). Murdo has participated in several Raids in NZ and Tasmania, and thought that it would be a good idea to run one on his own patch. The half dozen or so LBT members who went along for the ride think it was …
Posted Jul 1, 2019, 6:43 PM by Posts Editor
Lost oars!Annie Venables has put out a call for anyone spotting her lost oars:“Dear LBT Members – can you help! ……I lost my oars in the river (Saturday 29th June) at Franklin, whilst taking Aotea alongside near the Cartela. Putting it out there for anyone that uses the river to keep an eye out. They are much loved wooden oars, well varnished, black rubber oar stoppers for the rollocks, and a copper tip on one of the blades. They have been with the boat for many a year and I am devastated to think I may have lost them. If anyone finds them please let me know– then take them in LBT or hand to Dave Nash. There will be a …
Posted Jul 1, 2019, 6:44 PM by Posts Editor
Scottish winners!Shane Johnson has just (30 June) posted on Face book :”Jane received 3 first place medals from 3 races at the An Eather regatta at Shawbost on Lewis in the Outer Hebrides today.A cracking night of dancing was had at the ceilidh.”A few familiar faces with very happy grins!
Posted Jun 29, 2019, 6:32 PM by Posts Editor
Free virtual tour of old Hobart TownJust in from John Wadsley, Maritime Heritage Coordinator from the Maritime Museum of Tasmania, that the next fabulous Monthly Talk, will be held on Tuesday, 2 July from 12 noon at the Royal Society Room, TMAG.This will be from John Stephenson from the Digital Heritage Studio who will take us on a virtual tour of old Hobart Town.This is a really exciting project, where they have brought together some great historical research into the digital age and created a virtual world. All welcome! Click here to download the flyer: https://tinyurl.com/y4e3ehlg
Posted Jun 30, 2019, 5:23 PM by Posts Editor
Winter Sailing is on!Pip advises that Winter Sailing in Capricornia is very much still on. New time is Sunday at noon, weather permitting. All welcome; beginners to experienced, members and prospective members, men women and children. Beginners especially catered for and confirmed rowers are sincerely invited to give it a go! Dress up warm, bring a sandwich and enjoy the thrill of sailing a truly wicked witch of a boat with an experienced sailing instructor.Please call Pip for information and we will get together a mailing list. Pip Stevenson 0401295728An out of focus shot (sorry) of Capricornia sailing upstream on the Huon. “Don’t she look fine!”
Posted Jun 26, 2019, 1:08 AM by Posts Editor
The Tuesday Group (26 June)If you drop in to the LBT on Tuesday you can see a hive of boaty activity as is most appropriate! There were busy folk sanding, painting, roving, rigging and bailing! Inspiring stuff! Veronica bailing before the rowing crew head out ; it was noted that some of the team were late – might have been strategic :-)Inside the shed Bob was setting to tie lanyards to rollicks as final work before launch.
Posted Jun 25, 2019, 3:59 PM by Posts Editor
Yukon is back.A familiar presence on the jetty, Yukon has been absent recently to recieve the tlc required by all our water bourn vessels. She is back now with a few new timbers and all the other jobs that an opportunity on the slip presents. In a moments downtime from ship maintenance Dave and Ea posted up this fine photo taken one early morning at Woodbridge.
Posted Jun 23, 2019, 5:12 PM by Posts Editor
Alls Quiet?Well you might think all is quiet after the flurrry of foreign correspondence last week. That stream seems to have dried up as Our Man in Europe metamophoses into Our Man in Scotland. It may be a Brexit vortex at work nevertheless Ali Grant has reported via Facebook that Shane, Jane, Endra, Richard , Deb and Martin have all been rumoured to be seen lurking amongst the throngs making their way towards that great attractor “The Skiffie Worlds 2019”. (https://www.skiffieworlds2019.com/)Thanks Ali Grant for this shot of Huon-5-O in secret training for the Skiffie Worlds 2019
Posted Jun 23, 2019, 2:51 AM by Posts Editor
Latest Update from the Tuesday Group (18 June ’19)Graham Wright has sent through some updates from the Tuesday Group – Great work folks!The Grebe ‘Lightwood Bottom’ is nearly finished and should be ready to go back in the water next Tuesday. This has been a complete overhaul to restore it’s former glory. A lot of work has gone into this especially the varnish work.Punto also is getting close to be finished, a couple of weeks maybe and looking good.Another Grebe ‘Huon Explorer’ is progressing well. Nice combination of new paint and varnish work.The Whaler ‘Monty’ has had two planks replaced and now the new butt blocks are being fitted with copper nails and roves. This a slow procedure but using traditional methods. There are …
Posted Jun 18, 2019, 5:17 PM by Posts Editor
LBT hosted the Cruising Yacht Club of Tasmania (Sunday 9th June)On Sunday 9th June, the LBT hosted 56 members from the Cruising Yacht Club of Tasmania, who sailed into Franklin as part of their annual pilgrimage South to the Huon Valley. Each year, the CYCT sail down on the Queen’s Birthday Long Weekend, staying in Cygnet on Friday night, Port Huon on Saturday, then spending Sunday moored in Franklin culminating in a Long Table Dinner with the usual LBT hospitality. Although it appears that the word was not as widely spread throughout Franklin or LBT members as it has been in previous years, the event was still a great success, with Kate (having just returned from Thailand) serving up a three course Thai-themed meal; a great night was …
Posted Jun 16, 2019, 2:39 AM by Posts Editor
Cooks 250th Celebrations October 2019 (A heads up from New Zealand Coastal Rowing)NZ Coastal rowing is intending to take part in the 250th celebrations in Whitianga Coromandel, marking the arrival of Captain Cook and the Bark Endeavour to New Zealand in 1769.Thanks to Baden Pascoe preparations are well underway for a mini Raid at Whitianga starting on Thursday 17th October and finishing Tuesday 22nd.General plan is as follows,Thursday 17th October. Tavel to Whitianga launch and setupFriday 18th, Row out to meet the ships coming in.Saturday 19th, Partake in the celebrations on the water.Sunday 20th, Row up to Coroglen, Te Kawhonga landing.Monday 21st, Row out to Cooks bluff.Tuesday 22nd, Pack up and return home.Baden has pre-booked 12 sites at the Harbourside holiday park …
Posted Jun 16, 2019, 2:27 AM by Posts Editor
Visiting Bert Van BaarFrom Richard, Our Man in Europe:Many of us have happy memories of the Dutch team who built a sailing dinghy for the 2017 Wooden Boat Festival at the Wooden Boat Centre. The leader of that team was Bert van Baar, who remains a good friend of the Trust. Recently we had an opportunity to visit his boat school at the Navy Museum at Den Helder in the Netherlands. He is currently working on, wait for it, a St Ayles Skiff! The pack is being broken out this morning.We came away just a little bit jealous. His shed itself is great, but the thing that really got our envy juices flowing was the location: the old navy yards which …
Posted Jun 14, 2019, 3:55 PM by Posts Editor
LBT burgee in exotic placesFrom Richard, Our Man in Europe:Long time friends of the LBT Georg Kunert and Johanna Ender live in Wismar, an old Hanseatic League port on the Baltic sea in northern Germany. We were recently able to present them with a burgee to fly (on suitable occasions) from the transom of the lifeboat that they and their fellow crew members row in the harbour. See pics below. The boat behind the burgee is a replica Cog, a medieval merchant ship.
Posted Jun 14, 2019, 12:37 AM by Posts Editor
Gary Mac steps into Richard’s Big ShoesGary Mac will be taking on Richard’s web duties for several weeks until he returns sun burnt and jaded from the wearing task of touring Europe in the northern summer. (including the “World Skiffies”)
Posted Jun 12, 2019, 11:07 PM by Posts Editor
Scottish Coastal Rowing – The First 10 Years (Crowdfunding Appeal)From the Scottish Coastal Rowing Association:‘Next year, 2020, marks the first ten years of Scottish Coastal Rowing. Join us to celebrate this milestone by helping to crowdfund a film which will capture how it all started and showcase where we are today.To kick-start our fundraising, we are asking you – our coastal rowing community – to donate whatever you can. Why not have a club fundraiser and donate the proceeds? Or spread the word amongst your friends and ask them to do the same. If everyone chips in what they can, we will commission film-makers Raw Film, who recently made the SCRA training videos, to go ahead.The finished film will be available to everyone online for years …
Posted Jun 12, 2019, 10:41 PM by Posts Editor
Draft Minutes for LBT Committee May meetingThese minutes can be found in the usual folder. From the website (lbt.org.au) choose Resources => 2018-19 Committee Minutes, or directly at https://tinyurl.com/yxlof88t
Posted May 26, 2019, 4:41 PM by Posts Editor
Adrian Dean at the Wooden Boat CentreLast Monday night was a reminder of how lucky we are at the LBT to be part of community so rich in maritime people and resources. Just by jumping the side fence (well, wall) we were able spend an hour with Adrian Dean and dinghy design. Adrian ranged far and wide, from where to position rowlocks, to how to get the best lines for hull speed. We couldn’t have asked for more – but we got it. Adrian handed out beautifully printed plans for his improved Percy Coverdale dinghy – see pic below. Thanks Adrian! And of course that was topped off by the usual LBT dinner, cooked by Dimity. Many thanks to Dimity too.
Posted May 26, 2019, 4:45 PM by Posts Editor
Get well Peter HillPeter ‘the painter’ Hill is one of those unobtrusive characters who keep the LBT ticking over with his expertise and his steady work. However when you try and find a full frontal photo of him in the archive it doesn’t seem to exist! Peter was hit by a car recently, and came off second best with a broken leg and sundry other bruises and more minor injuries. He is stuck in Burnie hospital for the moment, hoping to be shipped south soon. We all wish him the best and look forward to seeing him back with the Tuesday blokes when he is feeling better. Some pics of Pete on the job below. Pics from Graham Wright
Posted May 26, 2019, 4:33 PM by Posts Editor
End of sailing seasonWe’ve done very well, but mid-winter is just around the corner, and until further notice organised sailing is OFF on Mondays.
Posted May 26, 2019, 4:55 AM by Posts Editor
End of month do it yourself LBT dinnerDusk is falling rapidly and early these days – just the thing to encourage the building of a bonfire on the LBT lawn, and a enjoy good repaste around it. Come down to the shed around 6ish with something to put on the BBQ and something to share.
Posted May 26, 2019, 4:30 PM by Posts Editor
MMT Talk: Tourism in Antarctica June 4thJohn Wadsley from the Maritime Museum writes: ‘We have Dr Hanna Nielsen presenting “Destination Antarctica: Commercialisation and tourism in the far south”. This talk traces the commercial history of Antarctica, from the first human encounters with the continent to the present day.’ It’s on Tuesday 4 June 2019 from 12 noon at the Royal Society Roomin TMAG off Davey Street.For more details see the flyer: https://tinyurl.com/y4jzsnuf
Posted May 26, 2019, 4:43 AM by Posts Editor
Volunteers wanted at the WBCJenny Tubman writes:If you can spare just 4 hours a week the Wooden Boat Centre could use your help. Please come along and meet some like minded community members. We can train you in new skills or you can use your old ones. Call Jen or Paul on 62663586 or just drop down to 3333 Huon Highway Franklin and say gidday.
Posted May 26, 2019, 4:33 PM by Posts Editor
Lost a camera?This one has been hanging around the LBT shed for weeks. It is film (not digital). Contact the secretary sec@lbt.org.au of you recognise it.
Posted May 19, 2019, 3:22 PM by Posts Editor
Invitation to Row at Lake Meadowbank 26 MayAndrew Perkins has invited us to join all manner of craft to row to a lunchtime spot down Lake Meadowbank. The rowing will take about an hour in calm water. Lake Meadowbank is past New Norfolk. If you are interested in going in a skiff then please let Mike Hewitt or Lorrie know.
Posted May 17, 2019, 11:21 PM by Posts Editor
Palais Concert June 4: Van Diemen’s BandTasmania’s own Baroque super-group, Van Diemen’s Band, is joined by internationally acclaimed singer, Lotte Betts-Dean, for a concert of Baroque favourites by Vivaldi, Handel and Scarlatti.Don’t miss this 5-piece ensemble of ancient instruments and a singer who will dazzle and delight. The Palais will open its doors at 5.15pm; there is a bar with reasonably priced drinks and concert itself starts 6pm, entry $25Click here to book your tickets online.
Posted May 17, 2019, 7:19 PM by Posts Editor
When in doubt, try the trysailLBT member John Snowdon sent us this very interesting account (https://tinyurl.com/y3rm4fjf) of crossing Bass Strait in heavy weather in Beatrix, which visited Franklin back in autumn. We are going to get John to show off his somewhat the worse for wear ribs at the next LBT show and tell.
Posted May 15, 2019, 5:32 PM by Posts Editor
Franklin History Walk Opening 10th JuneHarry Rettino sent us the invitation attached below. If you need more information contact him: 0473 066254 or harryrettino@yahoo.com
Posted May 15, 2019, 5:00 PM by Posts Editor
Sailing in windy weatherPip Stevenson sent in the following report. Sailing Monday Recap; Gusty Monday 13th May. It was definitely a full on forecast for last Mondays sailing afternoon; 25 kts and more from the NW. A firm believer in suck it and see, I proposed we check it out rather than cancel. Richard F, Henk Brolsma and Rotem, all regulars, and Sarah who is our current dinghy builder at the WBC were keen to try it on so we had a briefing to discuss the conditions, safety tactics and likely experiences, tucked in two reefs, hoisted the staysail and headed out. It was exciting challenging sailing to say the least. With the main reefed we sometimes had barely steerage in the lulls …
Posted May 15, 2019, 5:01 PM by Posts Editor
The Franklin Fruit LoopDeb Van Velsen invites everybody to the opening of the Franklin Fruit Loop. This is a scenic short-cut path between Old and New Roads across van Riddle and Johnson land, being planted with fruit and nut trees, alongside a wild-life corridor.When: Grand opening at 2:30pm, Sunday 19th May.Where: In the middle of the walk, between Old and New Roads Wear sensible shoes and whatever you need for the weather.Bring a thermos if you like. A few afternoon tea snacks will be provided. Parking: Anywhere along the foreshore at the bottom of Old or New Roads. Along 43 New Rd. is also an option. Accessible parking is at 43 New Rd.
Posted May 14, 2019, 3:56 AM by Posts Editor
Farewell dinner for Stranraer crews 20th MayThe Stranraer St Ayles Skiff Regatta (‘World Skiffies’) in southern Scotland isn’t until July, but some of our participating crews are leaving early to make it the ‘big OS trip’. We will say goodbye to them at Monday dinner 20th May. Pic from Skiffieworlds2013 at Ullapool (photo Kathy Mansfield)
Posted May 12, 2019, 4:33 PM by Posts Editor
Please fill out the bookIt is useful, when we want to apply for a grant for instance, to have a record of boat useage. The best way to do this is to write it down in the folder supplied for this purpose, so please try to remember to do so. l
Posted May 11, 2019, 10:51 PM by Posts Editor
Sailing Monday (13th May)Strong winds forecast for tomorrow. Come down and we will assess the situation 2pm and get out if possible – of recent times wind forecasts have been wrong as often as they have been right.
Posted May 11, 2019, 10:53 PM by Posts Editor
Reminder: Adrian Dean presentation next Monday (20th May)Did you know that Adrian was the supervising shipwright on the restoration of the ‘May Queen’? Or that he designed the ‘Greenlander‘ sea kayak that was for many years a standard? Or that he built the masts for the ‘Lady Nelson’? Come and see a beautiful example of his ‘Percy’ dinghy and hear him talk about dinghy design at the Wooden Boat Centre before dinner, 6pm next Monday night. First come first served: sign up using the form below (https://tinyurl.com/y6qk4n2x ).
Posted May 11, 2019, 4:52 PM by Posts Editor
A roving we will go (on Tuesday)Clinching up planks with copper nails and roves (washers) is one of the fundamental techniques of wooden boat building, and YOU have an opportunity to learn how to do it when we complete the replacement of Monty’s split planks. Come along to the shed, Tuesday after 10am.
Posted May 12, 2019, 5:01 AM by Posts Editor
First Aid Course Friday 17th May at HuonvilleMiranda Wageman, Health and Wellbeing Officer at Huon Valley Council writes:‘PAT (Pensioner Association Tasmania) still has 3 places available in a First Aid course for Friday 17 May at the PCYC in Huonville in case you want to re-qualify. This course includes the online learning section and then a full day. The cost is $155. Please contact Shirley directly on 0436 447 028 if you are interested. ‘
Posted May 8, 2019, 3:44 AM by Posts Editor
LBT Committee Meeting May 8thThere is an agenda being compiled at https://tinyurl.com/yxz8ejnv . If there are comments or further items you wish to have included in the business send them to sec@lbt.org.au.
Posted May 4, 2019, 6:03 AM by Posts Editor
Adrian Dean on the ‘Elements of Dinghy Design’ May 20thA year or so ago Adrian came over to an LBT dinner to describe the trading schooner he designed. Adrian does both large and small: sitting in the Wooden Boat Centre at the moment is a beautiful example of his ‘Percy’, a gaff rigged sailing dinghy (see pic below). Adrian has offered to talk about what goes into the design of such a boat at 6pm on Monday May 20th, over in the Wooden Boat Centre. Numbers will have to be limited: first come first served. If you wish to attend enter your details in the form below (https://tinyurl.com/y6qk4n2x ).Of course this will be followed by the usual LBT dinner which you are welcome to attend too
Posted May 4, 2019, 4:09 PM by Posts Editor
Sailing MondayMonday is looking cool and mild – a good day to practice sailing in light airs. Hans Sipsma will be taking Capricornia out around 3pm. All welcome. Pic from Robyn Berrington
Posted May 4, 2019, 5:28 AM by Posts Editor
Change of seasonThe sun is coming up later and later, just in time to meet to Jerry coming down the river, and first LBT crews coming up it. Thanks to Jill Edwards for the pic. In other rowing news, Lorrie Harrison has sent in the results from the Dover regatta attached: https://tinyurl.com/yxco78wu
Posted May 1, 2019, 11:45 PM by Posts Editor
Classic film at the Palais May 5thTeam movies writes: ‘This month Sunday 5 May, Classic Movies is screening the wonderful 2016 Swedish comedy-drama ‘A Man Called Ove’…. Synopsis: Ove, an ill-tempered, isolated retiree who spends his days enforcing block association rules that only he cares about and visiting his wife’s grave. Ove has finally given up on life just as an unlikely friendship develops with his boisterous new Iranian neighbours. (Courtesy IMDb)’ Doors open 6.30pm. Film starts at 7.15pm. Admission: $5. Bar will be running with reasonably priced quality refreshments, offering the usual red/white/fizzy/beer/cider/tea/coffee/milky milo. Please bring a plate (with something on it) to share for supper during the intermission.
Posted May 1, 2019, 11:33 PM by Posts Editor
Maritime Museum Talk 7th MayJohn Wadsley writes: ‘This time our guest has come all the way from London (that’s in Britain, or Place of Brexit). Rachael Utting is a PhD student at Royal Holloway, University of London researching curiosity collecting amongst whalers in the British Southern whaling fleet. She is in Hobart for the Whaling Conference being hosted by the Maritime Museum of Tasmania.’ See all the details in the flyer attached: https://tinyurl.com/y5rauulm
Posted Apr 28, 2019, 4:42 AM by Posts Editor
End of Month LBT DinnerYes, the cook takes a break on Monday 29th April and the rest of us get a chance to demonstrate our culinary skills. Bring something to share and something for the BBQ. There has been a good pile of fuel accumulating on the grass and tomorrow evening might be a good time to set a match to it.
Posted Apr 28, 2019, 4:16 PM by Posts Editor
Good Friday Social RowLorrie Harrison writes:‘Where were you? The sun shone, the bunnies hopped and we had a lovely row. Thanks to Zainab Clark for the photos.’
Posted Apr 21, 2019, 2:54 PM by Posts Editor
Lot’s of pictures from rowing at Dover 2019Zainab Clark has done her usual excellent job of photographing events we are involved in. See lots of great pics at https://tinyurl.com/yyaeqnx7
Posted Apr 24, 2019, 12:38 AM by Posts Editor
Tight racing at DoverThere were some photo finishes to the St Ayles Skiff races at Port Esperance on Easter Saturday. We wuz robbed. Thanks to Matt Wardell and the Dover crew for organising such a great event, and to Lorrie Harrison for wrangling the LBT crews.
Posted Apr 30, 2019, 3:31 AM by Posts Editor
Dutch Wooden Boat Festival July 5th-7thFor those wishing to escape a southern hemisphere winter for a spell this could be an enticing destination. It is being organised by old friend of the LBT Bert van Baar, whom many of us remember leading the team which built the Dutch dinghy for the Wooden Boat Festival in 2017. See https://dutchwoodenboatfestival.nl/about/ for details.
Posted Apr 17, 2019, 2:44 PM by Posts Editor
LBT’s Refugee Community Day Sunday 27th MayDeb Van Velsen writes: We’d love to please hear from people who’d like to join in on this day, to see if we have enough support to run it this year. For quite a few years now, the LBT has hosted a visit from the Hazara community in Hobart. It’s a really enjoyable day try out rowing a skiff or grebe, and can go on short Nancy cruises too. The community brings a wonderfully delicious picnic to share. Last time there was almost 70 people, lots of laughter, and queues to have a go in every different type of boat! The visit also is an opportunity to chat, clock up a few kilometres for their driving licences …
Posted Apr 17, 2019, 5:08 AM by Posts Editor
Check that propellerWe at Franklin tend to think that the mild, brackish waters of the Huon make us immune from the luxuriant gardens of seaweeds and shellfish that attach themselves to the bottoms of boats in nearby seaports, however that attached photographs of the propeller of a boat tied up to the marina show that the occasional inspection is warranted. That prop must have been working more like a paddle wheel than a screw. Pics from Brian Marriott
Posted Apr 17, 2019, 4:09 AM by Posts Editor
Draft Minutes for LBT Committee April MeetingThese can be viewed at https://tinyurl.com/y2nxnhhv This is a good time to remind members that communications with the committee in response to items such as this or anything else to do with the governing of the LBT can be made in a number of ways:an email to the secretary: sec@lbt.org.au; mail, either placed in the orange box beside the door, or posted to 3337 Huon Hwy Franklin Tas 7113; speak to a committee member: Peter Laidlaw, Richard Forster, Rod MacFarlan Graham Rankin, Martin Riddle, David Pittaway, Paul Frost, Mike Hewitt, Jane Johnson or Peter Venning;a good time to meet committee members is Monday night dinner, when there are nearly always announcements and …
Posted Apr 20, 2019, 2:15 AM by Richard Forster
Anzac Day Thursday 25th AprilA short service is planned for 6am on this day to be held at the memorial opposite the Palais. If you plan to come bring a torch. For more details see flyer attached: https://tinyurl.com/yyv9633s
Posted Apr 14, 2019, 4:56 PM by Posts Editor
The big logDavid Nash and Peter Laidlaw contemplate how to extract planks for Yukon from the big blue gum slab which is has been kept wet in the river beside the marina. The log from which this slab was cut has been like the magic pudding, supplying all the keels and stems for the yachts built by the Wooden Boat School diploma students as well as sundry other big planks etc over the last 20 years or more.
Posted Apr 14, 2019, 3:39 PM by Posts Editor
Rowing teams for Dover Easter RegattaLorrie Harrison writes:‘Skiff racing on Easter Saturday is just a small part of the Seafest atDover, but it will be good. A list of LBT rowing crew member is attached (https://tinyurl.com/y6h7eyx4), some may be surprised tosee their name on the list others disappointed their name is missing.It may not be too late, contact Lorrie (0410 335 809) to avoiddisappointment. 8:30 registration $5 per crew member; 9:00 women’s heats; 9:20 men’s heats; 9:40 Mixed heats; 11-12 finals for 1km races; 12-1pm Lunch, LBT are running a come ‘n try for the skiffs; 1:30 Mixed Hope Island 5km race. The LBT orange tops are available …
Posted Apr 14, 2019, 2:54 PM by Posts Editor
Good Friday Easter RowLorrie Harrison writes:‘Calling all women to dust off those bunny ears add a cotton tail, bring your Easter Morning tea and row the beautiful Huon River with us. Start time: 9am Easter Friday.’
Posted Apr 14, 2019, 2:13 PM by Posts Editor
Early start to Sailing Monday plannedHans Sipsma writes: ‘it would be good to start at 1pm in Capricornia, get down to Port Huon, practice for racing. Great weather.’ Lets do it.
Posted Apr 12, 2019, 8:38 PM by Posts Editor
Tuesday Group reportGraham Wright writes: In the main shed ‘Lightwood Bottom’ is looking good, the varnished finish has come up great thanks to Bob. Now ready to turn over for a lot more varnish. Punto is also coming along with the antifoul now done and the rest of the hull primed and ready for the top coat. In the extension, Huon Explorer has had a second top coat and antifoul and is also ready to turn over. The big job this Tuesday was tidying up the carpets and removing trip hazards and making it safer for wheel chairs and walking frames. The older carpets at the bottom were taken up ready for disposal and the carpets that were on top were trimmed …
Posted Apr 12, 2019, 6:20 AM by Posts Editor
Proposed purchase of Capricornia: responses from membersThese are being collected, and can be viewed in the folder at https://tinyurl.com/y6j4hwhz. If you wish to have your say, send it to sec@lbt.org.au.
Posted Apr 14, 2019, 2:04 PM by Posts Editor
Monties at large columnSteve Evans, whose group has recently restored the Montagu ‘Swan’ reports: ‘Got her sailing last week! We were presented with an original set of RN cotton canvas sails that had never been used! Some deceased Matelot had nicked them from the navy years ago. Beautifully presented and made. We will copy them and only use for special occasions. Just ordered 5 x 16 foot admiralty pattern oars as we have run out of time to make them.Hope your plank mending/replacement is going well.’ Looks like you can attend the celebration if you are in Bristol (England) on May 17th – see pics and flyer from Steve below.
Posted Apr 10, 2019, 4:21 PM by Posts Editor
Purchase of Capricornia: have your sayThe recent news item in this column concerning the possible purchase of Capricornia provoked a number of responses from members pointing out arguments both for and against. Some of these responses are attached below along with a brief summary of the issues raised, and form a good basis for further discussion. If you wish to contribute feel free: send to sec@lbt.org.au Summary: https://tinyurl.com/yy9jjff3 From Barbara Dawson: https://tinyurl.com/y2ctltf5 and https://tinyurl.com/y53b2kua From Pip Stevenson: https://tinyurl.com/y64bt8pu From Martin Riddle: https://tinyurl.com/yyh8bpmt and https://tinyurl.com/y2tum8sq Pic from Endra O’May
Posted Apr 7, 2019, 5:47 PM by Posts Editor
Sailing Monday 8th AprilWind could be a bit fresh this afternoon, but if there is an opportunity Capricornia will be going out. All welcome.
Posted Apr 7, 2019, 2:55 PM by Posts Editor
Distant ShoresHaving lovingly restored ‘Gretchen’ the Tuesday group finally got to have a sail on her, and headed off for parts unknown
Posted Apr 5, 2019, 12:13 AM by Posts Editor
Bushfire ReviewThe State Government has released the terms of reference for a review concerning the recent bushfires. See these and other details in the document attached: https://tinyurl.com/y2844d4e . Note that ‘Public submissions will be called for on 6 April 2019 and there will be a four week consultation period closing on 3 May 2019. Members of the public will be able to lodge formal submissions or make anappointment to talk in person or on the phone to the Review team.’
Posted Apr 4, 2019, 3:29 PM by Posts Editor
Free bushfire thank you event Geeveston 30th MarchMayor Bec Enders rang to remind us of this event: ‘Join ABC Radio Hobart’s Ryk Goddard and Lucy Breaden at the Kermandie Oval, Geeveston, this Saturday from 12pm – 3pm for a free community event. The Tasmanian Government is hosting a Bushfire Thank You Event to acknowledge the Huon Valley community spirit and sustained effort of our emergency services during the 2019 Bushfire campaign.’ The marquees were going up on Thursday, so it would seem there is a fair bit of preparation and work being put into this. For more information see https://www.abc.net.au/radio/hobart/huon-valley-thank-you/10941722
Posted Mar 28, 2019, 7:35 PM by Posts Editor
Maritime Museum – April School Holidays Program – SCRIMSHAWJohn Wadsley writes: ‘Here is our flyer (https://tinyurl.com/y4re7y3p) for the next school holiday program, which is all about the Ancient Art of creating Scrimshaw. This coincides with our current exhibition on Scrimshaw, which is just amazing!! We would appreciate you circulating the notice to all and sundry in your organisation and networks. So if you would like to come, you know the drill. Book early before we fill up. And we are very popular these days!!’
Posted Mar 28, 2019, 7:06 PM by Posts Editor
Progress on Monty’s garboardsFlorien has the planks ready to steam and fit on Tuesday morning. Come along if you are interested.
Posted Mar 24, 2019, 6:10 AM by Posts Editor
Monday night BYO dinnerLast Monday of the month, so the cook takes a break and the rest of us get a chance to strut our culinary stuff. BBQ will be fired up, and bring something to share. Pic kennejima
Posted Mar 24, 2019, 5:52 AM by Posts Editor
TSO at the Palais Sunday March 31stBarbara Dawson writes:‘Ten Days on the Island is organizing several FREE events in the Huon Valley on Sunday 31 March, as part of ‘A Weekend in the Valley’ festivities. At the Palais Theatre in Franklin, the Tasmanian Symphony Orchestra has 3 events: 10.30am Peter and the Wolf – bring your children along to experience this classic children’s tale; 2.00pm Piano Recital – Beethoven, Ravel, Mozart, Schumann; 7.00pm A Night at the Opera – 3 of Australia’s finest singers perform popular opera highlights. See attached programme for more details (https://tinyurl.com/y3w64emw).NOTE – these concerts are free to attend, however due to limited seating we require that you register beforehand at Tendays.org.au/a-weekend …
Posted Mar 23, 2019, 3:47 PM by Posts Editor
Dover Easter Regatta, April 19-22Lorrie Harrison writes: ‘The Mighty LBT are taking down all our 3 St Ayles Skiffs for Saturday’s events. This means we are looking for rowers and supporters. If your interested contact Lorrie who is organising the LBT team. Lorrieharrison@tpg.com.au . Dover organised great weather, great food and great racing last year. Join us this year.’ See www.pesc.org.au for more regatta details. For those who need sustenance after their rowing, Dover Seafest will be on at the same time: https://farsouthfuture.org/events/seafest/ .
Posted Mar 21, 2019, 9:44 PM by Posts Editor
Presentation April 2nd: The Cartela Restoration ProjectJohn Wadsley from the Maritime Museum writes: ‘Please find attached the flyer (https://tinyurl.com/yymrugtk) for our next monthly talk – this time on the Cartela Restoration Project, presented by Ross James. The Cartela is well known to many and there is great interest in the project that will hopefully see it returned to active duty. As always, we will see you in the Royal Society Room at TMAG, 12 noon on Tuesday 2 April 2019.’
Posted Mar 21, 2019, 3:47 AM by Richard Forster
New garboards for MontyBefore you can make ’em you have to break ’em. In the pictures below Florien and Nick are hacking out one of the garboards which split under duress during the recent ‘unTawe Nunnugah’.
Posted Mar 20, 2019, 5:00 AM by Posts Editor
Farewell ‘Old Captivity’She’s been a fixture on the river for some time now, a convenient turning mark, or one end of a start line, but she’s off, hopefully, first to a good boatyard to fix her up, and then to some breezy sailing waters. And yes David, they should get those fenders in.
Posted Mar 20, 2019, 12:01 PM by Posts Editor
Sailing Monday8 knot winds and 22 degrees forecast for tomorrow (18th March). Let’s get down there a little earlier than usual to hoist sail after 2.00pm. All welcome.
Posted Mar 20, 2019, 4:18 AM by Posts Editor
Purchase of CapricorniaThe LBT has a long history with the sailing whaleboat Capricornia. She had a major refurbishment in our shed about ten years ago, and has subsequently been involved in many regattas, school events and Tawe Nunnugahs. Her owner Piet Lundstedt is offering her for sale, and the committee is disposed towards making him an offer for a number of reasons. She is a very good sailing boat both for beginners and experienced sailors.She is a valuable part of Tawe Nunnugah. She comes with a large trailer which is also useful for our other whale boats.She can be stored on the trailer.She should pay her way: based on previous raids, she will provide a return on investment within …
Posted Mar 16, 2019, 10:20 PM by Posts Editor
Monties around the worldSteve Evans writes: ‘Montagu ‘Swan‘ is at last afloat in Bristol City Docks under oar. Sails to come masts already made. Need to know exact length of oars 4x 16ft and 1X 17ft? Taking her to Semaine du Golfe in Brittany France in May/June. Some leaks to sort out!!!!!!’ Notice the 6 oars in the pic below – not sure how that works.Bert Van Baar has sent pictures of a Monty in his home town of Den Helder, the Netherlands. Looks pretty cramped with all those rowers – one of them is in grave danger of crabbing.
Posted Mar 14, 2019, 7:30 PM by Posts Editor
Tuesday Group ReportGraham Wright reports: Tuesday group is back in business after the Raid and the Fires. Two Grebes, Lightwood Bottom in the main shed and Huon Explorer in the extension.Getting Huon Explorer to the shed using the old 2 wheel trolley went well until a wheel broke in half, time for a replacement, the trolley that is not the wheel! The plan for Lightwood Bottom is to strip back the hull to the King Billy Pine, a big ask for a boat that has been in use for 24 years, but Bob has matters well in hand. As we noticed a small amount of floor space in the shed, Punto was quickly put in it before anything else did. Once …
Posted Mar 14, 2019, 1:56 AM by Posts Editor
Sailing MondayPip Stevenson points out that there is a nice breeze forecast for this afternoon, and otherwise mild weather. Let’s get down to the shed for setup around 2.30pm, with a view to sailing from 3.00pm. Beginners welcome.
Posted Mar 10, 2019, 3:07 PM by Posts Editor
Wooden Boat Centre advertising positionsFrom Seek.com:The WBC is now looking for an operations manager who can help drive the growth of the business in order to create a sustainable institution within the Huon Valley and an institution that participates within the international wooden boat community.’ and ‘The WBC is now looking for a Front of House Team Leader … responsible for the day-to-day coordination of the retail and volunteer aspects of the WBC’. See https://tinyurl.com/y5b2ll9c and https://tinyurl.com/y6ethfxx for details.
Posted Mar 9, 2019, 4:58 AM by Posts Editor
LBT Committee Meeting Wednesday 13th MarchThere is an agenda being compiled at https://tinyurl.com/y2voyu8h. Draft minutes for the February meeting can be found at https://tinyurl.com/y28gxd28
Posted Mar 9, 2019, 4:10 AM by Posts Editor
New Woodbridge Jetty Celebration 31st MarchAnn Dechaineux writes: ‘The Woodbridge Jetty has been an important aspect in the life of the Channel and Huon communities since the early 1900s. This event will give us the opportunity to bid farewell to the old wooden jetty and welcome the new. It will be a day for everyone. Funds raised on the day will go toward relocating the end of the old wooden jetty, bollards and all, as a picnic platform on the Woodbridge Village Green. Not only will it be a picnic platform, but it will also serve as a wonderful community asset e.g for Carols by Candlelight.’ The Woodbridge community are hoping to get as many boats as possible there for the day. See flyer …
Posted Mar 8, 2019, 12:55 PM by Posts Editor
Fire Brigade Benefit Concert March 16thThe Franklin Folk Club always put on a good show at their monthly concerts, and this one is in aid of a particularly good cause. See poster attached for more details: https://tinyurl.com/y4du3ybj
Posted Mar 4, 2019, 4:23 PM by Posts Editor
Notices to Mariners: beware floating pipeMAST have posted the following notices: Valid From: 04/03/19 Until: 06/03/19 Mariners are advised a section of PVC pipe 15-20 metres long and 100 mm diameter is floating in the D’Entrecasteaux Channel in position 43 19.009S / 147 06.949E. Mariners should navigate with caution in the area. Valid From: 10/03/19 Until: 10/03/19 Port Cygnet Sailing Club will be conducting their Regatta from 9-11 March. On Sunday, 10 March there will be a prohibited area 100 metres either side of the start line, which is an imaginary line between the start box on the western shore and the start/finish mark to the east of the start box. Mariners …
Posted Mar 4, 2019, 5:44 PM by Posts Editor
Warrnambool Whaleboat and Skiff RegattaLorrie Harrison writes:‘The LBT was well represented at the South West Regatta held on the first weekend in March. Heat wave conditions on the Saturday did not deter the skiff rowers from qualifying for the finals in both the women’s and mixed crews, the women’s crew being the fastest qualifiers. Finals were held in 39.7 degrees and remarkably all completed the course. The women came in a very close second and the mixed team a credible third. Sunday brought lower temperatures and a day of whale boat racing in the Australian Whale Boat Championship. The Port Fairy Team lent us the remarkable Colin as the sweep oarsman for the mixed crew and our very own Barbara …
Posted Mar 4, 2019, 1:36 PM by Posts Editor
Claire Hooper at Frank’s, March 21stDavid Moore tells us that there are only a few tickets left for this show, which is sure to be a good ‘un. Booking details etc at https://tinyurl.com/y53belah.
Posted Mar 3, 2019, 12:57 PM by Posts Editor
Sailing today (Monday 4th March)Looks like there will be a nice gentle breeze, so lets do it. 2.30pm for 3.00pm start. Beginners welcome.
Posted Mar 3, 2019, 12:51 PM by Posts Editor
Checking anchor pointsThe square pontoons given to us by the fish farm are ideal for lifting anchor points, which is what David Pittaway and helpers did on Wednesday when they checked that the big pontoon we use for Nancy and the Skiffs was secure. All is well.
Posted Feb 28, 2019, 2:46 PM by Posts Editor
tn19 Refunds – LBT Committee decisionThe LBT Committee met on Thursday 21 February and considered the matter of refunds for the tn19 Raid that was disrupted by the threat of bush-fires caused by extreme weather conditions. The decision of the Committee on refunds is available using the link at the end of this message. A link to the Committee’s decision will also be posted to the Snug 2019 raiders WhatsApp group. Please use the following link to read the details of the Committee’s decision and the process for claiming a refund. https://drive.google.com/open?id=1OcAqEMXVN8PIMgevSggnMLhxbqEdIomu
Posted Feb 25, 2019, 5:49 PM by Martin Riddle
Clean up Australia DayLisa Plohl from Huon Council writes: ‘Clean Up Australia Day is fast approaching – Sunday 3 March 2019. Have you registered yet? You can register by following this link. Council have vouchers available for the Waste Transfer Stations. Please register your site and we will be in touch with you.’
Posted Feb 25, 2019, 1:53 PM by Posts Editor
For lease – two moorings close to the WBC– one suits up to a 35 ft keel boat – $80/month; – one suits up to a 25ft launch, not a keel boat – $50/month. David Pittaway 0418 221 531
Posted Feb 25, 2019, 1:36 PM by Posts Editor
What rig is that?Arguments about different rigs are always an excellent starting point for conversations at the LBT. If you need to bone up before you launch in then this article by our favourite boat designer Iain Oughtred could be useful: https://tinyurl.com/y4pnve2u Illustration copyright Roger Barnes
Posted Feb 24, 2019, 5:34 PM by Posts Editor
Monday sailing resumingPip Stevenson tells us that he is taking Capricornia out for a sail today (25 Feb), from 1pm to 5pm from the LBT pontoon. All LBT members welcome to join him. Capricornia is a large stable boat and Pip is a qualified instructor, so if you are new to sailing this a great opportunity to get some experience.
Posted Feb 24, 2019, 4:23 PM by Posts Editor
Sail CargoMany of us have been taking an interest in this project in Costa Rica (see http://www.sailcargo.org/). One of our long distance members Bert Van Baar is headed back for a second stint there having done the lofting a few months ago. John Young has forwarded us the following communication from the project founder Danielle Doggett. ‘So nice to hear from you! I so wish that we could have come to Tasmania for the wooden boat show! Please send our thanks to Adrian Dean, I apologize for not getting back to you right away. We truly appreciated the advice. Things are going well here, actually we hope to have the first two frames up next week. They are …
Posted Feb 24, 2019, 2:04 PM by Posts Editor
Cook it yourself end of month Monday dinner coming upThis is the night we all get to demonstrate our culinary skills. Bring something for the BBQ, a plate to share and (if you want) a bottle, from 6pm. $5 in the plate to keep the doors open and pay for gas etc.
Posted Feb 23, 2019, 3:24 PM by Posts Editor
‘The Light Between the Oceans’ at the Palais, 3rd MarchTeam Movies writes: ‘This month’s classic film, the 2016 ‘The Light Between Oceans’ is a special request from a local Franklin identity. It contains boats, crashing big ocean waves, lighthouse and partly filmed in Stanley, Tasmania… .Doors open 6.30pm. Film starts at 7.15pm. Admission: $5. Bar will be running with reasonably priced quality refreshments, offering the usual red/white/fizzy/beer/cider/tea/coffee/milky milo. Please bring a plate (with something on it) to share for supper during the intermission.’
Posted Feb 19, 2019, 3:15 AM by Posts Editor
Ship’s cook opportunityKate Hoorweg writes: ‘in all the excitement of the TN19 (un-Tawe Nunnugah…) Kate the Cook has over committed and is desperately searching for a short notice fill in for the incredible adventure of cooking on the Windeward Bound for a trip to Port Davey from 1st to 8th March (Friday week!!). The position is voluntary, but does pay in adventure! It is a small group, with only 10 passengers and the crew. The cook will also need to purchase all food provisions for the trip a day in advance of departure with card/funds provided by the Windeward Bound. A huge ask, I know, but truly the voyage of a lifetime!!! Be brave!!’ Contact Kate on 0419 693415 Photo …
Posted Feb 19, 2019, 2:55 AM by Posts Editor
Classical Guitar Concert – Palais Theatre, Friday 1 MarchBarbara Dawson writes: ‘Prior to opening the 2019 Melbourne Guitar Festival, the up-and-coming young classical guitar duo, Andrew Blanch and Ariel Nurhadi will be playing at the Palais Theatre on Friday 1 March. Their current project, entitled ‘Alchemy’, is something of a ‘world-tour’, featuring some of the finest music written/arranged for guitar duet, with masterpieces from France, Germany, Spain, Brazil, Argentina, USA, and Australia. Andrew and Ariel have been playing as a guitar duo since 2014, and have been described as “two stunning young guitarists…virtuosic” (Sydney Arts Guide) and have been praised for their “dazzling guitar playing” (ArtsHub). Please check out the following a YouTube link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vRUofhdMnfI Don’t …
Posted Feb 17, 2019, 2:19 PM by Posts Editor
LBT Committee meeting this weekThe draft minutes for the last meeting can be read at https://tinyurl.com/y3jdnw7x and the agenda for the next meeting is being drawn up at https://tinyurl.com/y3hotum4.
Posted Feb 17, 2019, 2:20 PM by Posts Editor
LBT Monday dinner tonightBack to something like normal. First Monday dinner post the fire and post the ‘unTawe Nunnugah’ is this evening. See you there. Let’s celebrate!
Posted Feb 17, 2019, 2:02 PM by Posts Editor
Franklin History Group Feb 20thHarry Rettino writes:‘Celebrating our tenth anniversary year of service to the Franklin community, gratefully relieved that Bushfires 2019 have for the most part spared our town, and rejoicing that our Franklin History Walk booklets are printed and in our possession, we invite YOU to attend the FRANKLIN HISTORY GROUP MONTHLY MEETING at the Franklin Evaporator Courtyard Building on Wednesday, 20 February 2019 at 7 pm ALL ARE WELCOME and are encouraged to assist in planning our tenth anniversary programme and project(s).’ The May Queen
Posted Feb 16, 2019, 2:31 PM by Posts Editor
Heading HomeWhat a tumultuous and busy few weeks – first the fire, then the unTawe Nunnugah and the unRegatta. Both of the last were remarkably successful, especially given the circumstances. That success was due in no small part to the many people who pitched in and helped – people such as Rob Ayliffe, pictured below, who trailered boats hither and yon for us, and is now taking some of them back to their homes on the mainland. Thanks to all.
Posted Feb 16, 2019, 2:06 PM by Posts Editor
Thursday night Welcome Dinner at Charlotte’s CoveThe Homecoming Fleet didn’t like the look of the weather today (on the nose and blowing hard) so are taking a lay day at Charlotte’s. If you want to come to a big ‘welcome back to the Huon’ for them be down there around 6pm, all welcome. See maps below. $15 a head. Maps from Google Maps
Posted Feb 13, 2019, 2:28 PM by Posts Editor
The unRegatta – Friday 15th February FranklinThere is a fine collection of St Ayles Skiffs at Franklin and a fine collection of rowers assembling keen to use them. Who knows whether the Homecoming Fleet will be able to join us but who cares? All who want to be part of impromptu rowing races and/or an excursion should assemble at the LBT shed on Friday morning 9 am. Pic from Endra O’May
Posted Feb 16, 2019, 2:32 PM by Posts Editor
Homecoming Regatta cancelledThe bushfires had put a big dent in our organisation, and the final nail in the coffin was that the ‘return raid’ from Hobart will, in all likelihood, be prevented by weather from coming up to Franklin until after the scheduled date (Friday). And how can you have a homecoming regatta without a homecoming fleet? There is an intention to organise some spontaneous activities on Friday: watch this space.
Posted Feb 13, 2019, 2:11 PM by Posts Editor
Fun and games at the LBT Snug branchFor some pictures of what has been going on see https://tinyurl.com/y8bwr595
Posted Feb 2, 2019, 5:08 PM by Posts Editor
LBT Monday night dinner provisionally moved to SnugThe fires behind Franklin are not over yet, but the main area of danger now appears to have moved away – see map (Sunday morning, 3rd Feb) below, and the wind prediction is somewhat more favourable. Life goes on, and Kate proposes that unless something untoward happens the Monday diners join the Tawe Nunnugahns at the Snug Sea Scout Hall to eat some of the mountain of fresh food that was bought for the aborted Raid. Watch this space. If something untoward DOES happen and Franklin is still safe there will be a small dinner at the Shed for those still dealing with the fires. Map overlays from Listmap, TFS, Sentinel Image from Willy Weather
Posted Feb 2, 2019, 5:01 PM by Posts Editor
tn19 up-date 29/01 – Self-organised Raid at SnugMartin Riddle has just posted the following on the tn19 News site:Franklin is still on an Emergency Alert, the fire to the west of us is defined by Tas Fire as ‘uncontrollable’ and the wind forecast offers no short term relief. Tas Alert indicates the road south from Huonville to Franklin is ‘No Access’. Residents are allowed through to protect property. And the good news is….we have permission from Kingborough Council to set up camp near the Snug Oval. We have also spoken to a member of the Snug Hall Committee (Isaac Forster) and should be able to access the Hall if needed. Isaac Smith of the Snug Sea Scouts indicated their facilities would be available to us …
Posted Jan 29, 2019, 2:53 AM by Posts Editor
tn19 called offMartin Riddle writes: ‘The tn19 contingency planning group met at 10am this morning and agreed the following: Yesterday the bushfire warning for Franklin was elevatedfrom ‘Advice’ to ‘Watch and Act’ with residents told to enact their BushfirePlan, and non-residents told to stay away from Franklin. Communities within afew kilometres of Franklin are at the higher alert level of ‘Emergency’ andwere door- knocked by police last night and asked to leave. The good news isthat, as of this morning, there has been no direct impact on any township.Weather conditions are unlikely to change significantly for the next few daysand the community has been advised not to become complacent. Official advice is, if you …
Posted Jan 27, 2019, 3:57 PM by Posts Editor
Fire around FranklinA few days ago the fire that had been simmering away in the forests to the west of Franklin suddenly expanded under the influence of first northwest then southwest winds. Towns downriver, such as Castle Forbes Bay, Port Huon and Geeveston were under serious threat. The Living Boat Trust became an unofficial drop in centre for some of those who followed the Fire Brigade advice to evacuate their homes. That threat has, thank goodness, abated for the moment and everybody down here is breathing easier, both physically and metaphorically. However due to the density of the forest, the fuel load and the terrain we will have to wait for rain before it finally goes away. Tawe Nunnugah has been rescheduled …
Posted Jan 26, 2019, 3:01 PM by Posts Editor
Gretchen is on the water!Pip Stevenson has provided a picture of the moment. After a ten year, stop start project involving many people Gretchen is ready to sail again. Congratulations to all, but particularly the Tuesday group who have pushed this through to completion. There was even smoke on the water for the occasion. Extra pics from Nell Tyson.
Posted Jan 22, 2019, 1:15 PM by Posts Editor
Australia Day celebrations postponedLisa Plohl from Huon Valley Council writes: ‘Council staff have held a meeting this morning and due to forecast weather conditions the Australia day event, Breakfast by the River at Franklin Oval, has regretfully POSTPONED. We will work on new date and advise you as soon as possible.’Nancy will just have to stay tied up in the smoke.
Posted Jan 22, 2019, 12:31 PM by Posts Editor
Dennis has been at it againIf you need a new grate made for your Montagu Whaler Dennis Muscovich is your man. Pic from Endra O’May
Posted Jan 21, 2019, 9:57 PM by Posts Editor
Lots still to do at LBTIts been a busy weekend at the LBT shed getting the fleet ready for the Raid but there’s still lots to do. If you want to help, drop by any day this week to see what needs doing. The regular Monday dinner is going to be a bit special this week as chef Kate tests the big camp roaster – come along, roll you sleeves up to work on the boats and then enjoy another fine meal in the shed.
Posted Jan 20, 2019, 3:37 AM by Martin Riddle
Pussy Cat and Owl arrive at LBTThe Geneva Christian College in Latrobe has very kindly let the LBT borrow two modified Hartley TS16s for use in the tn19 Raid. Pussy Cat and Owl were previously owned by Mission Afloat in Conningham and are not your ordinary Hartley having been converted to open boats for sail training purposes. They need a little bit of work to get them shipshape for the Raid – if you’d like to help, please contact the tn19 Raid Coordinator: info@tawe-nunnugah.org
Posted Jan 17, 2019, 3:39 AM by Posts Editor
Americana dinnerIt was just as wellthat Gretchen was out of the shed on Monday, when more than 70 people packed in to see if our American friends could cook a meal as well as theybuild a boat. They did not disappoint, and the masses went awayhappily sated. Many thanks to Ginny and the kitchen team. Pics from Deb Van Velsen
Posted Jan 15, 2019, 2:29 PM by Posts Editor
Gretchen relaunchGretchen is going back in the water at the MAST boat ramp just south of the Franklin Bowls Club at 11am on Tuesday 22 January. Come along and help celebrate the great work done by the Tuesday/Thursday group to get her shipshape once again.
Posted Jan 14, 2019, 10:15 PM by Martin Riddle
‘Where song began’ at the Palais, January 26th‘Violinist Simone Slattery and cellist Anthony Albrecht subtly combine a range of classical music from Bach to Vaughan Williams, with recordings of Australian birdsong while simultaneously showing illustrations, photographs and videos of birds and landscapes.’More details on the flyer below (https://tinyurl.com/yb64hy8z) and on the website https://wheresongbegan.com/
Posted Jan 13, 2019, 2:07 PM by Posts Editor
Look who is coming to dinnerIf you are hoping you are one of the precious few who made it onto the list for the Americana dinner tonight (the 14th) check below (https://tinyurl.com/ybr9dcvq)
Posted Jan 13, 2019, 1:02 PM by Posts Editor
Kaci Cronkhite at the Palais Monday 14thThis event has proved to be so popular that we have had to move the presentation (‘Finding Pax’) from the Wooden Boat Centre to the Palais so that we can all fit. Everything else stays the same: 6pm start, no charge (for the presentation), sign up on the form at https://tinyurl.com/yae7rusd . Dinner, unfortunately for the late comers, is booked out.
Posted Jan 10, 2019, 9:24 PM by Posts Editor
Can you lend flares and safety gear?It’s great to see the shed buzzing with activity as new volunteers work along-side the regular maintenance teams to get the LBT fleet up to scratch for the start of the LBT’s major fund-raiser. A huge thanks to every-one who has come along to support the LBT. Every boat in the Raid must have safety equipment required by MAST – including a set of in-date flares. Flares have a three year usable life. The Raid is the only time the whole of the LBT fleet is on the water beyond the Huon at the same time and therefore the only time we need full safety gear for every boat. It’s painful to spend LBT …
Posted Jan 10, 2019, 5:40 PM by Martin Riddle
Cheek pieces for the Montagu WhalerIn November 2017 the following news item was posted. ‘Some time ago there was discussion about how to decorate the ‘cheek pieces’ on the Montagu Whaler, those discs at the front of the boat where a ship’s crest would normally be displayed. Friend of the LBT (and old Whaler man) Bernie Bruen suggested knots to be replaced each year: that way we end up with a nice little display collection. We thought that it would be great if Greg Guy could tie the initial set, and he did. On Tuesday we had a ceremony to install them with John Young doing the honors.’ It is time to replace Greg’s knots, and the Homecoming Regatta would be a good …
Posted Jan 7, 2019, 4:43 PM by Posts Editor
Helping out with the Homecoming RegattaThe Homecoming Regatta, to be held on Thursday and Friday February 14th-15th, is planned to be much like Swiftsure Regattas of the past, with the addition of a ‘welcome to fleet’ dinner to get things underway. As a consequence the need for volunteers to run the event is scaled back considerably from the wonderful Tasskiffie regattas we have held at this time of year in the past. Nevertheless we do need a few helpers to get things organised and keep them moving along. The jobs we are looking at include, Thursday night welcome home dinner, setting up course (Thursday evening), safety boat, dockmistress/master, starter, finisher/results recorder, life jackets, MC, spare hand, tidy up (Friday afternoon). If you …
Posted Jan 8, 2019, 12:54 PM by Posts Editor
Participating in the Homecoming RegattaOrganisation for the Homecoming Regatta is well underway. There are a series of events that are planned. On Thursday 14th February: row/sail/motor to Port Huon to accompany the Return Raid boats as they come back from the Wooden Boat Festival; a welcome to fleet; dinner and music. On Friday: whaleboat races; Skiff races; the Roger Harwood dinghy race; Rat Island sailing. If you want to participate (and you do!) it would be a great aid to planning if you could register as soon as possible using the form at https://tinyurl.com/yb28z7yz . More details about the regatta can be found at http://homecoming-regatta.org/
Posted Jan 7, 2019, 4:31 PM by Posts Editor
Progress on the HavensOver at the Wooden Boat Centre the American team have the torture boards out and are bending the coamings. See pics below. Photos from Endra O’May
Posted Jan 7, 2019, 1:12 PM by Posts Editor
Project BoatThis large, Purdon built, motor boat is moored at Snug. Unlike some it floats, which is a big start! We believe that to the right person it is a freebie. Contact Harley Cullen 0488 218 943.
Posted Jan 6, 2019, 4:04 PM by Posts Editor
Kaci Cronkhite and dinner Monday January 14thThis ‘Americana evening’ (see previous post at https://tinyurl.com/y7jn6uqz) is being advertised through the Australian Wooden Boat Festival, so we are expecting swelled numbers, which will be capped, at dinner. If you want to make sure you have a place enter your name in the form below (https://tinyurl.com/yae7rusd). Price is $20, which gets you into the dinner and the presentation (remembering that this is a fund raiser for the Homecoming Regatta). If there are seats over for the presentation these will be free. Proceedings kick off at 6pm.BREAKING NEWS: DINNER BOOKED OUT!!!
Posted Jan 9, 2019, 4:45 PM by Posts Editor
Tawe Nunnugah 2021Some of us are having trouble getting our heads around the fact that it is 2019 (what? already!). Other poor souls who missed out on TN19 are looking forward to 2021. We have created a sign up sheet for TN21 news at http://eepurl.com/gcXkXj . Pic from Ben Forster
Posted Jan 2, 2019, 3:40 PM by Posts Editor
Dr Strangelove showing at the Palais: Jan 6Team Movies writes: ‘To welcome in the New Year Team Movies are delving into ‘The Vault’ and screening the 1964 political black comedy, Dr Strangelove. Synopsis: An insane general (Brig. Gen. Jack D Ripper) triggers a path to nuclear holocaust that a War Room full of politicians and generals frantically tries to stop.’ Doors open 6.30pm movie starts 7.15pm Admission $5. Bar will be running upstairs with reasonably priced quality refreshments, the usual red/white/beer/cider/tea/coffee/milky milo. Bring a plate. PS: News Flash, Palais Collective will be open on movie nights from 6.30pm until movie starts on a trial basis, just in case you require eggs or zucchinis.
Posted Jan 2, 2019, 12:01 PM by Posts Editor
Work to be done before the Raid startsWe need your help to get everything ready for the 2019 Raid. The job list includes:Sprucing up some of the LBT fleet including the Monty andSwiftsureMaintenance and checking of the food cool store trailer andbarbecuesDesign and construction of the new expedition water trailerRe-rigging GretchenCollecting, rigging and checking two modified Hartley TS16son loan from the Geneva Christian School in LatrobeCompleting the second St Ayles skiff rigAllocating and checking safety gear for the LBT boatsinvolved in the Raid…and much more besidesWhether or not you are participating in the Raid pleaseconsider helping the LBT by helping get everything ready. If you can help,please come along to a …
Posted Jan 1, 2019, 3:43 AM by Martin Riddle
Please help the LBTThe LBT is on a sound financial footing because it runs amajor fund-raiser every two years – the tawe nunnugah Raids. For the intervening two years the Raids pay for shedexpenses, such as insurance, rates, electricity and water; for consumables formaintenance of the fleet; for up-grades to LBT facilities and assets and allowsthe LBT to put on a range of programs for its members and the community,including the On-the-Water Program which has introduced hundreds of primary studentsto the pleasures of messing around in boats safely. But it’s a two way thing – the whole of the LBT benefitsfrom the Raid but in turn we could not run the Raid if …
Posted Dec 31, 2018, 7:42 PM by Martin Riddle
Sydney to HobartIntrepid LBT reporter Endra O’May was on hand to catch the action as the maxi’s crossed the line at the end of this year’s race. What a sight!
Posted Dec 28, 2018, 2:46 AM by Posts Editor
Americana Evening, January 14thThe theme country for the Wooden Boat Festival this year is the US of A. We in Franklin are heavily involved, with a couple of classic American dinghies being built over at the Wooden Boat Centre and various luminaries visiting. Among the latter is Kaci Cronkhite, well known boating journalist and author of ‘Finding Pax: the unexpected journey of a little wooden boat: 1‘. Kaci will be presenting at the WBC on January 14th prior to Monday dinner, which will be cooked by the American boat building team who know how to wield a spatula as well as a chisel. How is that for a double header? This is a fund raising evening for the Homecoming Regatta, so we a …
Posted Dec 21, 2018, 5:41 PM by Posts Editor
LBT Christmas breakThere is sure to be plenty of informal activity around the shed over the Christmas period, but the Tuesday group are taking a break as are the cooks. They will be back in the second week in January, first dinner January 7th, first workday January 8th. Season’s greetings to everybody from the Living Boat Trust.
Posted Dec 21, 2018, 4:23 PM by Posts Editor
Women’s Christmas Row this FridayThe usual Friday social row is a celebratory one on this Friday (21st) at 9.00 am. Come down dressed for the occasion.
Posted Dec 16, 2018, 2:37 PM by Posts Editor
Model BoatsSue was the centre of intense scrutiny as she hot glued the model boats constructed by students at the On the Water Regatta. Hope she got it right! Pics from Steve Stanton
Posted Dec 16, 2018, 2:23 PM by Posts Editor
Another boat launchOne of the highlights of the On the Water Regatta was the launch of two rowing dories built by Huonville 6th grade students under the supervision of Dave Golding. Herreshoff they ain’t, but practical they are and they rowed really well. Great to see an old tradition being revived. Congratulations to all concerned. Pic from Pip Stevenson
Posted Dec 16, 2018, 2:18 PM by Posts Editor
Reminder: Bring your own Christmas Party Monday nightThe traditional LBT Christmas Party is a ‘bring a plate’ and your own BBQ fair tonight (17th December). If you want to help out some of us will be at the shed from around 2.30pm to start decorating and getting things set up before sailing.
Posted Dec 16, 2018, 1:40 PM by Posts Editor
Last sailing Monday for 2018It might not be as blue this afternoon as in the pic below, but the buckets in the heavens are due to start emptying later today and there is a nice breeze due. Let’s get out there around 3.30pm.
Posted Dec 16, 2018, 1:04 PM by Posts Editor
Gretchen has left the building!An historic day, and Graham Wright was there to capture it with his camera. For those who don’t know the story, our lee-board small cruising yacht Gretchen underwent a major restoration a few years ago, but wouldn’t ‘take up’ when she went back in the water. So it was back in the shed with her to be sheathed with Dinyl, and have a major refit and paint job at the same time.
Posted Dec 14, 2018, 2:28 PM by Posts Editor
Stars ‘n Stripes at the LBTThe Americans have arrived, their containers of tools, material and equipment are coming shortly, the wood is piled up outside the WBC, and by week’s end we should see the start of action on the Haven 12 1/2. On Sunday we had a BBQ to welcome them before it is all heads down and bums up.
Posted Dec 13, 2018, 12:11 PM by Posts Editor
LBT Christmas Party Monday 17th DecemberStruth! How did that happen so fast? The cooks want to enjoy it too, so it is a ‘bring your own’. Starting around 6.30pm.
Posted Dec 9, 2018, 11:53 AM by Posts Editor
LBT Committee Meeting December 12thThe agenda for the upcoming meeting is being compiled at https://tinyurl.com/y9ly7x7e . If you have any business you want addressed please send it to sec@lbt.org.au, or speak to a friendly committee member.
Posted Dec 9, 2018, 2:49 AM by Posts Editor
That doesn’t look rightA good illustration of why dinghies in the shed need a short stern line to stop them getting caught under the rail along the dock at low tide, and then filling with water at high tide. Pics from Nathan Nelson
Posted Dec 9, 2018, 2:44 AM by Posts Editor
MMT Holiday ProgramJohn Wadsley from the Maritime Museum writes:‘The Maritime Museum has launched its new School Holiday program for January 2019. This time we are offering something for younger children based on the theme of “Wooden Boats” to tie in with the Wooden Boat Festival next February. Plus we are offering a separate program for older students wishing to use our Ship Simulator. Strictly for 10 Years and older. Flyers for both are attached (https://tinyurl.com/yd29vcwo and https://tinyurl.com/ybzayuf6). On behalf of the Museum volunteers and staff, we would like to wish you all a safe and happy Holiday Season.’
Posted Dec 6, 2018, 12:22 PM by Posts Editor
BBQ to welcome Americans, Sunday 9thSean Koomen and his merry people have arrived, and by the weekend should have shaken off their jet lag. Alix Gibbs from the Wooden Boat Centre writes: ‘We invite you to “Chuck a Shrimp on the Barbie” this Sunday to welcome the American Boat Building Team to Franklin. This is a great opportunity to meet the team before they start in the workshop on Monday the 10th. The BBQ is this Sunday (9th) at 1pm at the LBT. Food and drinks will be provided.’ RSVP to Alix at woodenboatcentre@outlook.com See photos below if you want to attach names to faces. Pic from https://www.nwswb.edu
Posted Dec 6, 2018, 10:56 PM by Posts Editor
Dust extractor system for new workshopIn the past we have used ad hoc methods for disposing of dust, but the new workshop is getting a proper system. Pic from Graham Wright
Posted Dec 5, 2018, 3:01 AM by Richard Forster
Sculpture in placeThe sculpture that was recently clad in wood over at the Wooden Boat Centre has now been mounted in Franklin Square. The seagulls know what to do with it: could be very tastefully striped shortly. Pics from Endra O’May
Posted Dec 5, 2018, 3:13 AM by Posts Editor
Boggy Creek JerseyMany members of the LBT went to the Amnesty fund raiser at the Palais on Sunday night, which featured the film ‘The Merger’, about the Boggy Creek Football Club the Roosters. Zainab Clark, who was the principle organiser for the event tell us that those who missed out on a Roosters footy jumper can order one at https://amnestyinternationalshop.com/products/jersey . She also wants to thank the Palais team and various others who made the whole thing possible – you know who you are.
Posted Dec 2, 2018, 2:45 PM by Posts Editor
No Sailing this Monday 3rd DecemberWe have to have rain sometime to keep our valley green, and it would seem that today is the day. And the wind forecast looks challenging too. Pic from South Franklin Weather: https://southfranklinweather.com
Posted Dec 2, 2018, 10:50 PM by Posts Editor
Tuesday Group reportGraham Wright writes:Flying 15 ready to be turned over; Punto repair and new paint job well underway. See pics from Graham below.
Posted Dec 2, 2018, 1:02 PM by Posts Editor
Rowers Christmas lunchNot all the action is on the water for the rowers. Pic from Zainab Clark
Posted Dec 2, 2018, 12:49 PM by Posts Editor
‘Flatty’ is out the door!The beautifully restored little Channel fishing dinghy has been collected by its owner. Congratulations to the Tuesday group who have done the work. Pics below from Zainab Clark and Graham Wright, including a ‘before’ shot from Graham.
Posted Dec 2, 2018, 12:44 PM by Posts Editor
Just in case the Palais got flooded …Our volunteers at the Amnesty fund raiser were prepared for the worst eventualities. Pic from Zainab Clark
Posted Dec 2, 2018, 12:13 PM by Posts Editor
Monties in strange placesOne thinks of the Montagu Whaler as being a quintessentially British, or at least British Commonwealth, boat. However a query for plans from Rob Blackburn reveals that there is enthusiasm for them in other places – see the pic.
Posted Dec 2, 2018, 12:04 PM by Posts Editor
Rowers Christmas lunch December 2ndLorrie Harrison writes:‘A once a year chance for all LBT rowers to get together at a shared lunch this Sunday. BYO food and drink.’
Posted Nov 25, 2018, 12:13 PM by Posts Editor
Wooden Boat Guild cruise in company to HuonvilleOn Sunday several Trust boats joined the Guilders for this annual event. The weather held off, was even rather kind in blowing the sailors up river, and a good time was had by all. A highlight for us was to see our hundred year old Nancy motoring together with her sister boat Eva Blanche: both were built by Tucker Abel at Battery Point in the early 20th century. Pics below from our roving reporter Endra O’May, who has given us a ‘view from Swiftsure‘. You can tell she hates dogs.
Posted Nov 26, 2018, 1:05 PM by Posts Editor
Sailing Monday on tomorrowOn Sunday Swiftsure and the Monty made it up to Huonville in near record time with a kindly south easterly behind them. Let’s see if they go as well on Monday afternoon starting 3.30pm. Looks like a fair breeze coming up and good conditions to get the Grebes out. All welcome. Pic from Phil Meaney
Posted Nov 25, 2018, 12:56 AM by Posts Editor
LBT cook our own dinner coming upWith the evenings lengthening out it is just the right time of year to saunter down to the LBT around 6pm of a Monday night with something from the butcher, something from the greengrocer, something from the regular grocer and perhaps something from the vintner to share with friends around the BBQ. See you there.
Posted Nov 24, 2018, 9:56 PM by Posts Editor
On the Water Regatta December 13th: please helpDover, Geeveston and Huonville primary schools have all been participating in this year’s rowing program, which is to culminate in a Regatta on Thursday December 13th, starting at 10am. Should be heaps of fun and what the LBT is all about. There are lots of jobs for the day: setting up; scheduling; managing the dock; skippering the dinghies; starting and finishing; recording results; BBQ; model boat making; pulling down; and there are more.If you are able to assist please submit your name using the form below (https://tinyurl.com/ybhat46e). We are expecting about 80 students. For more details see the regatta section of the On the Water web page: https://tinyurl.com/y89nvrn2 Site Plan
Posted Nov 25, 2018, 4:38 AM by Posts Editor
When the wind blowsA sea breeze on the nose is no small thing to deal with for teams of 4th grade rowers in Grebes, and on Wednesday it proved impossible. The solution was to send them off by land to meet the boats which were towed upwind. With the wind behind them they were much happier. Pic from Endra O’May
Posted Nov 22, 2018, 1:26 AM by Posts Editor
Out with the old…That dinosaur head poking in through the door of the Wooden Boat Centre in the pic below is on the crane, ready to take away the newly completed sculpture. It seems only a week or two ago that the project was being started. Pete Parkinson is looking very cool about the whole thing. Pic from Endra O’May
Posted Nov 21, 2018, 9:22 PM by Posts Editor
Wooden Boat Centre November NewsLots of current news, plus a very interesting historical item by Allan Cato about the ‘capture’ of the Oberhausen at Port Huon at the start of the First World War. See attached: https://tinyurl.com/ycorjbxu
Posted Nov 21, 2018, 5:28 PM by Posts Editor
BIG project opportunity?Graeme Broxam, President, Association of Heritage Boat Organisations, writes: ‘ We have been informed of the imminent destruction of a former Tasmanian fishing vessel Theresa, built at Strahan about 1940. Although not on the AHBO list of vessels of high significance, it is nevertheless an attractive example of the traditional Tasmanian coastal fishing vessel of its era and may be of interest to some individual or organisation to save with the potential of restoration.’ For more details see attached (https://tinyurl.com/y8ykt5m6)
Posted Nov 21, 2018, 2:41 PM by Posts Editor
Free excursion on Nancy for members: 25th NovemberNancy’s electrical fault has been magically disappeared (Brian Marriott being the magician) and she is ready to join the happy throng for the ‘Cruise in Company’ to Huonville with the Wooden Boat Guild, 10.00am, Sunday November 25th. First come first served for those who want to be passengers – free for members of the Trust or Guild. Complete the form (https://tinyurl.com/y8ebgxaw), contact the secretary at sec@lbt.org.au , or text 04977 86572. For more details about the event see https://tinyurl.com/y9mjfguc.
Posted Nov 21, 2018, 2:31 PM by Posts Editor
Classic Movie at the Palais: ‘The Merger’ December 2ndTeam Movies writes: ‘We are combining with AMNESTY SOUTHERN GROUP Tasmania for a special Christmas Movie treat, the 2018 Australian smash hit movie, The Merger. Synopsis: Huon Valley’s favourite comedian, Damian Callinan, playing injured AFL footy legend Troy Carrington, is lured back to his home town of Bodgy Creek, to rebuild the hapless local footy team. He recruits refugees to make up the numbers with hilarious results, but ultimately takes the community on a journey of change. All door takings will go to Amnesty Southern Group who are working to raise awareness of the plight of asylum seekers and refugees.’ Doors open 6.30pm, seated by 7.15pm, Admission $5, bring a plate.,
Posted Nov 18, 2018, 4:19 AM by Posts Editor
Sailing MondayThe wind gods are predicted to be kind, so come down and join us at 3.30pm at the pontoon. Last week we took out Monty for an initial trial run in preparation for the ‘cruise in company’ to Huonville next weekend: there may be more of the same.
Posted Nov 18, 2018, 3:47 AM by Posts Editor
Moorings for leaseDavid Pittaway writes: For lease – two moorings close to the WBC; – one suits up to a 35 ft keel boat – $80/month- one suits up to a 25ft launch, not a keel boat – $50/month. Contact: 0418 221 531
Posted Nov 18, 2018, 3:36 AM by Posts Editor
Twilight RowingBarbara Dawson writes:‘Twilight rowing last Friday saw one St Ayles skiff, one Grebe, one Whitehall skiff and one kayak racing against each other. The skiff team, Huon Five 0 (powered by Jane and Shane, Phil, Zoe, and Karl) slashed their previous week’s time by almost 6 minutes. First across the line (just) was David Budd in his Whitehall skiff. Come down this Friday at 5pm, grab a Grebe, make up a skiff crew, or bring your own boat/kayak. And bring along drinks and nibbles for post race get-together afterwards.’
Posted Nov 18, 2018, 3:25 AM by Posts Editor
Anyone know the boat ‘Sgorr na Craig’?Topher Dawson from Ullapool is coming to Tasmania to participate in the 2019 Raid. In 1984 he built a 20ft huon pine double-ender, Sgorr na Creag, on a property at Mickey’s Bay on Bruny Island. She is clinker built, very beamy (8ft 4 inches), with a plumb bow and a raking sternpost and at the time was painted white.The boat was sold to a Japanese guy called Hisau who lives near the Idea Bay railway station. Topher would like to see the boat again during his visit – if you know either the boat or its current owner please email us at: info@tawe-nunnugah.org
Posted Nov 18, 2018, 3:31 AM by Martin Riddle
Floating boat coverCelia Leverton sent us a whole lot of ideas for sheltering boats from Holland a while ago. We now have a prime example of one of them tethered to wharf upstream of the WBC.
Posted Nov 17, 2018, 12:04 PM by Posts Editor
Rowing Regatta, Huon at Franklin 17th,18th NovemberMarine and Safety Tasmania Notice to Mariners: ‘A Regatta will be held on the Huon River at Franklin on Saturday, 17 November 2018 commencing at 0800 hours. The Regatta will conclude at 1600 hours on Sunday, 18 November 2018. Boat owners are reminded to transit the area with caution and follow any directions given by rowing officials.’
Posted Nov 13, 2018, 3:09 AM by Posts Editor
Project BoatMichael Fitzgerald writes: ‘I have a 26’ sail boat I’ve started to restore but am unable to continue with the restoration so I’d like to offer her to someone who is interested in taking over. She is strip planked Huon pine fixed lead keel built by Barry D Wilson of Smithton. Her original name is Norma De Kermandee (we call her “Valkyrie” now). She is in a cradle at my home at Deep bay. I have stripped her back to the hull and have done some re-ribbing, and reset the transom. I have attached some pictures of what she looked like when we bought her and after repainting the hull about 8 years ago and what she …
Posted Nov 13, 2018, 3:03 AM by Posts Editor
Monday sailors: prepare for the Huonville cruiseThe cruise to Huonville planned for November 25th (see elsewhere in this news column) will be a great opportunity to get on the water with our rower/sailers – the Monty and Swiftsure in particular. Let’s use the next couple of Monday evenings to prepare – see how we go getting up the river and back and check that we can smoothly combine oars and sails. Meet down at the pontoon at 3.30pm.
Posted Nov 10, 2018, 3:31 PM by Posts Editor
Who would have thought of these tools?Mike Dredge pointed us to this collection of improvised tools. Resourceful person who thought of them, ‘Mr Jiwakoyak’. See https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SQdn_TvryeE Who hasn’t wondered how to get out that dratted stripped Phillips head screw?
Posted Nov 9, 2018, 8:46 PM by Posts Editor
’12 Times he Spoke’ – Coming to Palais Theatre 21st NovemberBarb Dawson writes: ‘After a stellar premier season in the Theatre Royal Backspace in July, Tasmania Performs is bringing ‘Twelve Times He Spoke’ to regional Tasmanian towns – including Franklin. This one-man show stars Guy Hooper. It tells the life journey of a man both ordinary and extraordinary – via significant moments of speech in his lifetime. These 12 pivotal moments between the ages of 7 and 55 represent the highs and lows of his life – what he says in those moments but also what he doesn’t say, or cant face saying that reveal who he is and where his life is at. From a shy schoolboy being berated by a teacher to a broken man with the alcohol shakes …
Posted Nov 9, 2018, 1:46 PM by Posts Editor
Accommodation wantedThe project boat for this year’s Wooden Boat Festival is a Haven 12 1/2, and a team is coming over from Port Townsend near Seattle to build it at the Wooden Boat Centre. We expect to have as much fun with them as we had with Bert’s Dutchies in 2017. One practical consideration is housing: it is mostly covered but an extra roof or two to put over their heads would be handy. The period we are talking about is from the start of December through to mid February. If you think you can help out contact Anne Holst at the Wooden Boat Centre – anne@woodenboatcentre.com or 6266 3586. Even if you are only able to …
Posted Nov 8, 2018, 5:00 PM by Posts Editor
Cruise with Wooden Boat Guild to Huonville 25th NovemberThis event has become one of the highlights of our calendar. Andrew Perkins from the Guild writes: ‘The Wooden Boat Guild of Tasmania would like to invite anyone interested to take part in their annual Huon river cruise in company. Sunday November 25. The plan is to depart Franklin at 10.30 am to row, paddle, steam or motor to Huonville in company for lunch at the Huon Jet Boat Café and return to Franklin for a casual tea or coffee at the Living Boat Trust . Huon Jet will provide a BBQ lunch (including vegetarian option) for $15 per head or choose from their Café menu or BYO. For catering purposes please RSVP for the BBQ before leaving Franklin. RSVP …
Posted Nov 7, 2018, 11:58 PM by Posts Editor
Reminder: Sailing MondayShould be a gentle breeze wafting down the river this afternoon to take us out – from around 3.30pm to rig up.
Posted Nov 4, 2018, 11:55 AM by Posts Editor
Subsidised Provide First Aid Accredited CoursesNarelle Synnott writes:The Huon Valley Council supported by Bendigo Bank, Tasmanian Health Service and Dover Far South Action Group are offering a community ‘Provide First Aid’ One Day Accredited Course. This course is heavily subsidised and is open to community members. Further information of locations and how to secure your place is available by following the below links:Cygnet – https://www.huonvalley.tas.gov.au/events/provide-first-aid-cygnet/ ;Dover – https://www.huonvalley.tas.gov.au/events/provide-first-aid-dover/ ;Huonville – https://www.huonvalley.tas.gov.au/events/provide-first-aid-huonville/ . Dates: 22nd, 26th, 28th November. Flyers attached: https://tinyurl.com/ycdyqgmy https://tinyurl.com/y94g7o2t https://tinyurl.com/y6unpqqj
Posted Nov 1, 2018, 2:19 PM by Posts Editor
Wooden Rowlocks for FreyjaSome people have washing hanging from the line. At the LBT we have new rowlocks. Freyja is being converted to the same system as Billie
Posted Oct 30, 2018, 4:44 AM by Posts Editor
In with a chance for a Foster 10′All you need to do is head over to the Wooden Boat Centre with $10 in your mitt. See https://tinyurl.com/yae7e7bs for details.
Posted Oct 29, 2018, 1:00 PM by Posts Editor
Memories of the CartelaIan Florence visited the shed the other day, and told us tales about how his grandfather was the supervising engineer for the Cartela, and built the steel keel and caste the propeller for her. He also gave us a nice cache of copper and brass screws and nails from one those projects that never quite got done, plus some samples of wood bending. Thanks Ian!
Posted Nov 1, 2018, 1:57 PM by Posts Editor
Mens Shed Association Gathering 30 November 2018We are invited to West Winds Men’s Shed & Channel Men’s Shed on Friday 30 November. We have a good relationship with this association and encourage people to go along. For details see below: https://tinyurl.com/y9fpopyo
Posted Oct 28, 2018, 1:22 PM by Posts Editor
Monday sailingThe met bureau is predicting moderate winds and no rain, so lets get down to the pontoon around 3.30pm to rig up.
Posted Oct 28, 2018, 3:00 AM by Posts Editor
Reminder: Check the LBT calendarWe make every effort to register all significant events in the calendar: to view go to the LBT home page lbt.org.au and choose Calendarfrom the menu at the top. The schools ‘On the Water’ program dates were recently added, so check these if you were hoping to use a Grebe in November or early December. They have prior bookings for these boats from 10am – 2pm.
Posted Oct 28, 2018, 3:56 AM by Posts Editor
End of Month BYO Dinner Monday nightThe one we have all been waiting for: the end of month BBQ PLUS Daylight Saving PLUS a fair weather report. Bring your snags and something to share. Come early (around 3.30pm) for a sail. Photograph by Kgbo
Posted Oct 28, 2018, 2:09 AM by Posts Editor
Rowing Regatta – Huon River, Franklin, Oct 27-28MAST Notice to Mariners. ‘A Regatta will be held on the Huon River at Franklin on Saturday, 27 October 2018 commencing at 0800 hours and finishing at 1600 hours on Sunday, 28 October 2018.Boat owners should transit the area with caution and follow any directions given by rowing officials.’
Posted Oct 26, 2018, 3:04 PM by Posts Editor
The great ball mystery solvedKeeping the canine contingent entertained has always been a major part of the LBT’s activities. Mike Dredge reports.‘You may have noticed the odd red and yellow soft ball turning up at LBT, much to the joy of various dogs, and wondered who was the generous soul making these donations. Mystery solved. Missy found a nest of about half a dozen after last week’s rain, in a drain outlet near LBT. Looks as if the drain originates somewhere near the Primary School. Kids must be dropping the balls into the drain – they then magically re-emerge at LBT. I’m doing some work with the Phys Ed teacher at the school, he confirmed they use these balls, so …
Posted Oct 25, 2018, 2:11 PM by Posts Editor
LBT members at large columnAndy Bullock writes: ‘During this southern hemisphere winter I spent seven weeks travelling in the UK and Ireland. I attended classic boat festivals in Wivenhoe, Essex; Falmouth, Cornwall; and Roundstone, County Galway, and hired boats on the Norfolk Broads, the Fal estuary, and Lake Winderemere. Initially I followed in the wake of two of my favourite nautical authors, Maurice Griffiths and Arthur Ransome, exploring the rivers and anchorages in Essex, Suffolk and Norfolk on the east coast, then visited my ancestral villages in Cornwall and Scotland. I found some lovely harbours and sailing grounds, but many of these are very tidal and at low water there is often little water remaining. For example at Wivenhoe, a gorgeous village on the …
Posted Oct 22, 2018, 1:13 PM by Posts Editor
New LBT committee meetsThe following subcommittees have been established to deal with LBT business. Executive: Peter Laidlaw, Rod Macfarlan, Richard Forster; Finance Rod Macfarlan; Fleet Management and Maintenance: Paul Frost, Martin Riddle, Peter Laidlaw; Communications, website: Richard Forster; Tuesday Group, Shed: Paul Frost; Rowing: Mike Hewitt; Sailing: Peter Laidlaw, Martin Riddle; OHS, Training; Martin Riddle, Graham Rankin; Nancy: Paul Frost, Richard Forster, Brian Marriott (off committee); Foreshore Development: David Pittaway, Anne Holst; Tawe Nunnugah Martin Riddle; Rowing Hire: Peter Venning. Off-committee members will come on to these subcommittees as required. For minutes of the meeting which made this and other decisions see https://tinyurl.com/y9229xhk.
Posted Oct 21, 2018, 1:20 PM by Posts Editor
Recycling opportunityWant to find out what Bob and Dolly Dyer were doing in 1961? Or why you should replace the Holden 186 motor in your boat with a diesel? Or how to lag your exhaust pipe with asbestos? The answer is almost certainly in one of the magazines piled outside the front door. Take one, take more, take them all. Actually, there is a lot of good reading in them, but we just can’t afford the space to keep them anymore.
Posted Oct 21, 2018, 2:46 AM by Posts Editor
First Aid KitIt was noted that the First Aid Kit was tending to get buried on the shelves, so it has been moved to its own dedicated box outside the front door.
Posted Oct 20, 2018, 11:26 PM by Posts Editor
Monday sailing: time for the Grebes?The forecast is mostly sunny and a gentle breeze: a good time for those who haven’t tried dinghy sailing to have a go. See you down at the pontoon around 3.30pm to rig up.
Posted Oct 20, 2018, 8:30 PM by Posts Editor
What a lookerNancy may be laid up, but she still has that counter stern. Pic from Endra O’May
Posted Oct 20, 2018, 8:13 PM by Posts Editor
1000 litre water tank wanted by LBTThe Living Boat Trust is seeking to acquire a 1000 litre water tank suitable for holding drinking water to support our small boat expeditions such as the tawe nunnugah Raid. We are also looking for a smaller tank (say 500 litre) suitable for storing waste water. If you have one to sell or donate or know where we can get one, please contact us by email: info@tawe-nunnugah.org
Posted Oct 20, 2018, 8:01 PM by Posts Editor
Twilight Rowing RacesStarting Friday 2 November (every Friday until daylight saving ends) Get fit, have fun, compete – BYO drinks and nibbles afterwards. For anyone – individual, pair or crew. For any type of rowing or paddling boat. LBT boats (skiffs, Grebes, Swiftsure, Monty). Private dinghies, rowboats, kayaks. Row time is approx. 45 mins. Race start times will be staggered/handicapped so everyone finishes around the same time – makes for exciting finish. On Fridays: By 5.00pm register yourself or a crew in a boat (first in, first served). 5.30 – rowing starts. 6.30 – BYO drinks, nibbles.
Posted Oct 18, 2018, 8:30 PM by Posts Editor
Best in showGraham Wright writes: ‘Still a bit more work to do, but checking all the bits and pieces that have been cleaned, painted, varnished or polished. Gretchen is starting to look better than before’. A master of understatement, our Graham.
Posted Oct 15, 2018, 1:03 PM by Posts Editor
Monday sailing looking goodNice mild winds of around 10 knots are predicted for this afternoon (15th October), so lets get sailing: Monty, the Grebes and whatever else we can hoist a rag on. Start from around 3.15pm.
Posted Oct 14, 2018, 2:38 PM by Posts Editor
How things used to beJohn Walduck writes: ‘We have just been to the War Memorial in Canberra, and saw this model of the HMAS Sydney (the ship that was lost off Western Australia in WW11). On deck is a model of “Monty”, under the tail of the plane and on the other side as well. Thought you may be interested.’
Posted Oct 14, 2018, 2:03 PM by Posts Editor
Charlotte Cove: the place to beOn late Friday morning a small LBT fleet caught the outgoing tide and a gentle north easterly to get down the river to meet the sea breeze at Port Huon. Many tacks later and with the evening coming on they were at the Cove, which in the prevailing conditions was a mill pond. For those who are nostalgic for the ’60s the scout camp which sits on the headland there is worthy of National Trust classification, particularly when Tess Hallinan has a fire going in the grate. That is where the weary seafarers headed, to replace those calories they had expended during their afternoon exertions. Thank you cooks. Next day those who were feeling mildly energetic took the Monty on …
Posted Oct 14, 2018, 1:26 PM by Posts Editor
Excursion to Charlotte Cove 12th OctoberThis was advertised a while back: and now it is happening! Weather is looking good (in the 20’s!), and a band of enthusiasts are organising. If you wish to join them complete the form below.
Posted Oct 8, 2018, 5:56 PM by Posts Editor
Tuesday evening oar makingLorrie Harrison writes:‘The Skiffs need a spare set of oars and we are looking for interested members to help. Peter Laidlaw is guiding the construction every Tuesday until completion, starting today, Tuesday 9 October at 5pm and each Tuesday until your work is done! LBT shed.’ Pic from SASCRAA
Posted Oct 8, 2018, 2:26 PM by Posts Editor
LBT Committee meeting this Wednesday 10th OctoberThere is an agenda being compiled at https://tinyurl.com/yao5jklo. Draft minutes for the last meeting are at https://tinyurl.com/yasxzxxj
Posted Oct 7, 2018, 12:22 PM by Posts Editor
LBT at Port HuonLorrie Harrison writes: ‘Our Skiff crews were well rewarded for joining in Port Huon Yacht Club Opening Day. Castle Forbes Bay in Imagine won Best Dressed Crew, while Making Waves in Billie won Best Dress Boat.’ Meanwhile the Monty crew were just happy to sort out the spaghetti junction of mainsheets.
Posted Oct 8, 2018, 7:44 PM by Posts Editor
Fair breeze for sailing Monday, 8th OctoberWilly Weather is predicting that there should be a nice sea breeze coming in this afternoon (see pic below). Lets get down to the pontoon to rig up from 3pm on.
Posted Oct 7, 2018, 11:55 AM by Posts Editor
AMSA port visitsClaire Cunningham from AMSA writes: ‘Please find attached (https://tinyurl.com/y8r8v4b2) information regarding upcoming AMSA port visits designed to provide an update on National Law requirements, how to interact with AMSA and the opportunity to ask questions and check the status of your vessel.’ Note that this is aimed primarily at commercial vessels, and that Huon valley date is November 5th in Dover.
Posted Oct 7, 2018, 11:43 AM by Posts Editor
A Monty on the Murray?Frank Tucker from the Riverboat Society in Mildura writes: ‘Your Club was put forward to me as one which may be able to assist in my quest for data re one of our boats. We always thought it was a lifeboat but have recently learned that it is a “whaler”, commonly used by the Nay(s) since the 1700’s. I’ve researched whalers on the internet and have found some data, but our particular whaler is different in that it is iron… We understand it may have come from the HMAS Melbourne, but there were 4 HMAS Melbournes.’ See the pics below. If you have information which can help Frank contact him at ftucker@bigpond.com
Posted Oct 4, 2018, 2:37 PM by Posts Editor
LBT features in ‘Afloat’If you missed the September edition of ‘Afloat’ never fear: you can catch up online, particularly page 38 which featured an article on the LBT (http://magazine.afloat.com.au/?iid=161013#folio=38). Thanks to Jonathan Wallis for posting this.
Posted Oct 4, 2018, 1:34 PM by Posts Editor
Reminder: opportunity for sail/row on Monty this Saturday 6thMonty will be going down to the Huon Yacht Club to participate in their season opening, and there is still space aboard. If you want to come submit your name through the form below (https://tinyurl.com/ydb96p92). Pic from Phil Meaney
Posted Sep 30, 2018, 2:51 PM by Posts Editor
If you REALLY need a heartstarterThere is one over at Franklin Marine – a defibrillator that is. In an emergency anybody can use it – it literally talks you through what needs to be done – but do the short training session if you get the opportunity.
Posted Sep 29, 2018, 6:40 AM by Posts Editor
Two broken arms? No worries.After the Friday First Aid course those attending know what to do in this and numerous other circumstances. Thanks to Arthur from St John’s for putting on a practical, lively and instructive course. There is a nice summary of what was covered in the St John’s ‘fact sheets’: http://www.stjohntas.org.au/index.php/training/first-aid-fact-sheets/ . The LBT keeps it’s First Aid Kit and safety equipment handy on the shelves immediately inside the front door. That is why we ask people not to store other equipment here, and why, when it inevitably is, it gets moved. We may in future put a kit outside in it’s own dedicated cupboard. Pic from Peter …
Posted Sep 28, 2018, 3:30 PM by Posts Editor
Skin on frame kayaksDay 2 of the course over at the Wooden Boat Centre sees the frames well under way.
Posted Sep 25, 2018, 3:23 PM by Posts Editor
The Homecoming Regatta, February 2019 An enthusiastic group has been beavering away organising a regatta to follow the Wooden Boat Festival. It will start on Thursday evening the 14th of February with the return of the fleet from Hobart (the ‘homecoming’), and there will be lots of races and fun the next day from morning right through to finish with a lit boat parade. There is a website, homecoming-regatta.org, being set up from which those who are interested can access the planning documents. It features a great poster painted for us by Jill Bruce. Watch this space!
Posted Sep 23, 2018, 4:12 PM by Posts Editor
Minestrone and do it yourself Monday nightAs always the cooks are having the last Monday night in the month off, leaving the rest of us to forage for ourselves. Tuesday new bloke Enrico has contributed a BIG pot of minestrone, and there are rolls to go with that. Come along with a plate, pot and/or barbecue makings and there will be a feast. Pic Vegan Feast Catering
Posted Sep 23, 2018, 1:56 PM by Posts Editor
The LBT has a new committeeAt the AGM on Saturday night the following committee was elected. President: Peter Laidlaw Secretary: Richard Forster Treasury: Rod MacFarlan Ordinary members: Graham Rankin, Martin Riddle, David Pittaway, Paul Frost, Mike Hewitt. On behalf of the LBT, this column thanks Jilly Archer, Brian Marriott, Brett Doubleday, Lorrie Harrison and Karen Corbin for their invaluable contribution to the outgoing committee, and welcomes Paul Frost and Mike Hewitt as new committee members. Of the many unique features of the LBT, perhaps the most astonishing is that we look forward to our President’s address. How many other organisations can boast that? If you missed it it’s recommended reading: Peter outdid himself. See https://tinyurl.com/y7agt6u9 .The draft AGM minutes are …
Posted Sep 23, 2018, 12:55 AM by Posts Editor
The gaffersThe gaffers of course are the boats, not the sailors. As everybody knows, real boats, of which we have a unique collection, have gaffs and yards. Let’s get the Grebes and the Montagu whaler out on the river on MONDAY AFTERNOONS , starting OCTOBER 8TH 3.15PM. Those who want to can stay on for an LBT dinner after their appetite enhancing sail. We are hoping that members of all experience levels will come along. For those finding their feet the Montagu Whaler is an ideal boat to go out in with a seasoned crew. There is plenty of space, and she is very stable and safe – Monties were used as lifeboats.Not convinced? John Young has more reasons why …
Posted Sep 23, 2018, 4:02 PM by Posts Editor
Flicking the switchAt a morning tea celebration on Friday commissioner Adriana Taylor opened the new facilities on the wharf upstream of the Wooden Boat Centre.
Posted Sep 21, 2018, 12:22 AM by Posts Editor
Steaming the gunwhalesIt was all hands on deck at the Wooden Boat Centre on Wednesday when the new gunwhales were steamed and fitted to the couta boat that is being restored.
Posted Sep 19, 2018, 3:41 PM by Posts Editor
Billie back in the waterLizzie and Karen have had Billie in the shed for her pre-season service, and gave her a bit of a makeover whilst they were at it. She’s back on the running line now so that we can all take advantage of their efforts.
Posted Sep 19, 2018, 3:42 PM by Posts Editor
Treasurer’s Report for the AGM 22nd SeptemberThis report has been put in the AGM folder at https://tinyurl.com/y8g29adh. Come along to discuss it with Rod Macfarlan (the treasurer) on the night (after 6pm), and then stay on to enjoy the quiz night ($5 and a plate).
Posted Sep 18, 2018, 5:52 PM by Posts Editor
$750k to be spent on upgrading North Franklin Foreshore$750k has been allocated by the state government to upgrade the foreshore. This project is to be administered by the Huon Valley Council. The council organised an initial planning meeting on Monday 17th September, which was attended by David Pittaway and Richard Forster from the LBT. Here are their short notes, highlighting the implications for the LBT.The proposal is to concentrate on hardening the foreshore outside the evaporator sheds, providing wharves for both large and small boats. These are to be used both by visitors to Franklin and locals needing somewhere to temporarily tie up. See diagram below. This proposal is largely a re-establishment of the wharf that was on this bank of the river up until the …
Posted Sep 23, 2018, 9:16 PM by Posts Editor
The Crew CardLorrie Harrison writes: ‘We encourage the use of the LBT boats by our LBT members. We do have a lot of sailing boats, row boats and rowing and sailing boats. Daylight saving is coming with some warmer dryer weather so join in an existing crew or come down with your friends. This is what you do.Book the use of the boat on line: go to lbt.org.au => calendar and follow the prompts. Make a sensible decision about the skill of your crew and the weather conditions before you head out. Make a financial contribution towards the maintenance of the boats. This is set at $5 for a week’s use or $100 for the year. If paying for …
Posted Sep 16, 2018, 2:36 PM by Posts Editor
Huon Yacht Club, Season Opener, 6 OctoberThe Monty isn’t the only boat that should be going down to Port Huon for their opener. Lorrie Harrison writes:‘This is an opportunity to dress up a boat and row down to Shipwright’s Point to take part in the opening ceremony. We can trailer a skiff back if you think it is just too far or you don’t want to miss out on the land celebrations that start about 3pm. It would be great to have some of the sailing boats and Nancy join in again. Please let Lorrie know if you are interested, or use the form below (https://tinyurl.com/ybtee2y4). We have one crew joining in so far with rather an interesting theme …
Posted Sep 16, 2018, 2:57 PM by Posts Editor
Warrnambool 2-3 March 2019 South West RegattaLorrie Harrison writes: ‘The Warnambool rowing community put on a day of skiff racing on the Saturday and a day of whale boat racing on the Sunday. The LBT have been involved for the last 2 years and we are going again next year and taking Billie with us. The plan is to follow the weekend of racing with a few days touring up the Glenelg River with our base being Nelson. Rowers and boats from the mainland will be joining us. We are looking to put together crews for the racing and firm up the plans for the Glenelg.If you are interested we are having a meeting to talk about it on Friday 21 September at 10:45am
Posted Sep 16, 2018, 12:53 AM by Posts Editor
Servicing your inflatable life jacketIan Kuhl from Franklin Marine reminds us that we should check our life jackets each year, and get them professionally checked every couple of years. For details see attached: https://tinyurl.com/y7admwym
Posted Sep 14, 2018, 2:58 PM by Posts Editor
Season Opener for Monty October 6thFor those of us on common or garden boats the arrival of the Monty at last year’s Huon Yacht Club season opener was a highlight. The club has been consulted and they want a repeat dose, so let’s take the Monty down to Port Huon on October 6th. If you want to be part of the crew (and you do) enter your name in the form below. If we have enough bodies we can use her oars and avoid the indignity of a tow if the wind drops out.
Posted Sep 14, 2018, 4:42 AM by Posts Editor
What’s in that goodies bag?Roger Sly has been ferreting around at the back of the Navy Cadets shed, and has come up with all sorts of treasures. Chief amongst them is a set of the original mainsheets for the Monty, which are far more elegant and practical than the ‘butchers hook’ set that we have been using. Thanks Roger!
Posted Sep 14, 2018, 3:41 AM by Posts Editor
First Aid Course at the Shed, 28th of SeptemberThere are many of us who need to upgrade (or get) our qualifications, and if there are sufficient numbers St Johns will run a course for us on the 28th. Please indicate your interest by completing the form below (https://tinyurl.com/ycf9v3pc). Cost will be about $100 depending on numbers (the more the merrier). See details attached: https://tinyurl.com/y7g2ekgx
Posted Sep 14, 2018, 10:08 PM by Posts Editor
Invitation from the Wooden Boat Centre: 21st SeptemberJenny Tubman writes:Please come and joinin the celebrations of the wooden boat centre’s upgraded wharffacilities.Morning tea will be served on the Greg Guy wharf at10.30am on Friday 21st Septemberthe Huon Valley Council Commissioner Adriana Taylor and General Manager Emilio Reale will officiallylaunch the upgraded facilities.This upgrade was made possiblethrough a community action grant from the Huon Valley Council.
Posted Sep 13, 2018, 9:49 PM by Posts Editor
AGM and quiz night coming up 6pm 22nd SeptThe ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING will start at 6pm at the Franklin Bowls Club, 3395 Huon Highway, Franklin. All documents relating to this meeting can be found at https://tinyurl.com/y8g29adh .Agenda 1. Welcome 2. Apologies 3. Minutes of last meeting 4. Auditor’s Report 5. Appointment of Auditor 6. Treasurer’s Report 7. President’s report 8. Declaration that all positions on the committee of the L.B.T. are vacant 9. Election of executive, President, Secretary, Treasurer and ordinary committee members 10 Close The QUIZ NIGHT, which will follow the AGM, will start after 7pm. Bring a PLATE and $5 to help defray costs. Drinks will be available.If you can help out on the night please complete …
Posted Sep 12, 2018, 7:49 PM by Posts Editor
Register your WBC Boat Paul Cullen writes:’The MyState Australian Wooden Boat Festival (8-11 February 2019) is coming up fast and we are concerned that boat owners don’t miss out on registering because they have overlooked the dates. Boats Afloat (in the water) expressions of interest close on Monday 14 October. Boats Ashore (displayed on trailer or cradle) entries close on Monday 16 January. There’s still space available, but owners should get their applications in without delay. Could we ask as a favour if you would print out the attached PDF (it’s an A3 in colour, but can be printed as an A4) and put it on your noticeboard, insert the whole PDF into your next electronic newsletter or forward …
Posted Sep 14, 2018, 11:33 PM by Posts Editor
Wot to do in the hols with the (grand) kidsJohn Wadsley from the Maritime Museum writes: In the upcoming school holidays we are going to be maritime archaeologists! Please see the attached flyer (https://tinyurl.com/y9s3zddn) for details. Program Dates: Monday, 1 October: 10 am – 12 noon; Thursday, 4 October: 10 am – 12 noon; Monday, 8 October: 10 am – 12 noon; Thursday, 11 October: 10 am – 12 noon. Ages: 6-13 years. Cost: $5.00 (for this fee you gain entry to the whole Museum on the day). Our program will have lots of interesting and fun activities to help you become a maritime archaeologist. We will talk about some important shipwrecks around Tasmania and what was found on them. We will also have our own ‘shipwreck’ that …
Posted Sep 12, 2018, 10:43 PM by Posts Editor
Excursion to Charlotte Cove 12th OctoberMartin Riddle writes:‘Invitation to join Spring sail/row to Charlotte Cove, The Sailing sub-committee has booked the Port Cygnet Scouts’ waterside house at Charlotte Cove for two nights – Friday and Saturday 12 & 13 October. All LBT members are welcome to come. The fleet will consist of whaleboats, skiffs, Grebes, Privateers – whatever people want, just indicate your preference when you sign on. To sign on for the trip, go to the form below (https://tinyurl.com/y8hk7atg). The plan is to sail/row from Franklin to Charlotte Cove on Friday. Day sails from Charlotte Cove on Saturday and return on Sunday. If you have to work you are welcome to join us at Charlotte Cove after work on Friday …
Posted Sep 11, 2018, 6:23 PM by Martin Riddle
Experienced hands on the MontyThe Monty was in good hands went it went out on Tuesday morning. On the helm is John Young who first sailed a Montagu whaler in 1951 when he was in the Royal New Zealand Navy and on the jib sheets is Roger Sly who first sailed one in 1956 in the Royal Navy. Roger brought with him some more authentic Monty rigging including main sheets and blocks and mainsail down haul.
Posted Sep 10, 2018, 10:04 PM by Martin Riddle
Dutch Skiff Placed Third in Great River RaceFor the second consecutive year, a St Ayles skiff made the top 3 in this 300 boat race on the Thames. The Dutch entry from WSV Woudrichem was placed third on handicap.
Posted Sep 10, 2018, 8:33 PM by Posts Editor
LBT Committee Meeting 12th SeptemberSee the agenda being compiled at https://tinyurl.com/y9c96dqx , and the draft minutes for the last meeting at https://tinyurl.com/y9xzao3b
Posted Sep 9, 2018, 3:23 PM by Posts Editor
Franklin Working Waterfront Association AGM 23rd SeptTo be held at Franklin Primary School on Sunday 23rd September 2018 at 2pm – more details at https://tinyurl.com/ydfmzubu. Those who are not yet members of this association but who have an interest in the waterfront may want to go along and join up.
Posted Sep 8, 2018, 4:42 PM by Posts Editor
Wooden Boat Centre NewsRead all about it at https://tinyurl.com/y9b2anf5 . Big news is that the prospectus for a 2 year Wooden Boatbuilding, Craft Career Course is now available.
Posted Sep 8, 2018, 4:36 PM by Posts Editor
Nominate for the committee – beat the rushThe LBT constitution tells us that nominations must be received by the secretary 10 days before the AGM: that would be next Wednesday the 12th. Get yours on the top of the pile – submit it now! Find a form on the table at the shed or attached: https://drive.google.com/open?id=1MczFA0tExBY31_rhEMCoPOYcJ8qQ3EWU.
Posted Sep 6, 2018, 4:28 PM by Posts Editor
Southern Mooring Services coming to FranklinIan Kuhl from Franklin Marine writes:‘Southern Mooring Services will be up this way in the near future. I have them coming up to service my moorings and put in a new one for me when they are up this way. Lyn and Russel are local to the area and are based out of Port Huon. They are also listed on the MAST website. I have chosen to use them as I know that there work is excellent and that they are a MAST recognised mooring contractor…. Their number if you wish to use their services at anytime is 0457 811 070’ Pic from Wikimedia
Posted Sep 6, 2018, 4:18 PM by Posts Editor
Free trip on Nancy for members next Tuesday 11thNext Tuesday at 8.30am Nancy will be leaving Franklin to go down to Port Huon for her yearly inspection on the slip. If you want to be part of the crew, braving the gales at Point Jackson and threading the straits at Castle Forbes Bay, send an email to the secretary: sec@lbt.org.au. Of course once you are there you may want to help 🙂 . See the work schedule at https://tinyurl.com/y8hmflj5
Posted Sep 8, 2018, 4:44 PM by Posts Editor
tn19 Raid features at AWBF and filling fastPaul Cullen, General Manager of the Australian Wooden BoatFestival, joined us for dinner in the shed on Monday and provided an up-date onpreparations for the festival. He emphasised that applications to display onthe water are still open but will close in a few weeks. If you plan to displayat AWBF, whether as part of the tawe nunnugah fleet or independently, you needto register for the festival now (http://www.australianwoodenboatfestival.com.au/registration/).AWBF are great supporters of the Raid – the tawe nunnugah fleet has theprivilege of being allocated a place at the festival where we can be mooredtogether and tn19 currently features on the front page of the AWBF newsletter (http …
Posted Sep 4, 2018, 11:16 PM by Martin Riddle
Beach Couture: A Haute Mess. Exhibition Friday September 21stJohn Wadsley from the Maritime Museum writes: ‘Please find attached (https://tinyurl.com/yak72y4v) an invitation to the final viewing of our current exhibition – Beach Couture: A Haute Mess. This exhibition has attracted much comment, not only on its statement on fashion, but also its clear message on the horrendous amount of waste we generate and the impact on the environment. We would love you to come along, and any friends who might be interested are also welcome, but please RSVP for catering purposes.’
Posted Sep 4, 2018, 9:27 PM by Posts Editor
Australian Wooden Boat Festival NewsGet the latest from Paul Cullen and his merry people at https://tinyurl.com/y7tbhvue. Lots of news about the American boatbuilders who will coming to ‘raise a hull’ here. We have fixed their graphic for them: see below.
Posted Sep 2, 2018, 3:41 PM by Posts Editor
Franklin Foreshore RedevelopmentRebecca Cordwell writes: ‘The Huon Valley Council were successful in obtaining funding of $750,000 as part of the 2018 State Election commitments. This funding is to be used as part of a larger project for the Foreshore area. The Project was included in the Council’s State Election Strategy as a concept and is attached for your information. Council would like to work with key stakeholders of the Franklin Foreshore area to develop a project brief for the project. This would include listening to your ideas for the area and developing a project scope. This project will involve multiple levels of community engagement with this meeting being the first of many community discussions. We invite a representative from your …
Posted Sep 2, 2018, 3:41 PM by Posts Editor
Time to disrobe MontyRoger Sly rang to remind us that he will shortly be bringing the Sea Cadets down to take out Monty, and that it is time to start getting her ready for the sailing season. That will be the focus for next Saturday morning’s rigging session: come down around 10am if you want to be initiated into the mysteries of 19th century rigging.
Posted Sep 1, 2018, 2:31 PM by Posts Editor
Three men in a boatThe unfamiliar yawl in the pic below is ‘Absent Friends’, one of our Grebes. The beauty of this sail setup, mainmast well forward, mizzen behind the tiller, is that it leaves plenty of space for three fair sized blokes to lounge around amidships. Pics from Rob Brocksopp
Posted Sep 1, 2018, 2:07 PM by Posts Editor
Planting out the foreshoreFriday was the perfect day for getting plants in the ground – cold and threatening rain but never actually precipitating – and the foreshore near the campground was a hive of activity as the group organised by Landcare got their heads down and their bums up and planted a small, native forest. There is more to go: if you want to participate turn up around 10am next Thursday.
Posted Aug 31, 2018, 5:06 AM by Posts Editor
Is it a Monty?Peter Hill recently bought this picture painted in 1946 by Henry Edgecombe. It shows the old arsenal and cooper’s workshop on Goat Island in Sydney Harbour, but we were more interested in the boat in the foreground. Is that ‘winged’ rudder a give away? Is it a Montague Whaler?
Posted Aug 28, 2018, 1:30 AM by Posts Editor
Planting day on the foreshore, 31st AugustBec Enders writes:‘You are invited to come and plant the foreshore in Franklin this Friday, between the camp ground and the boat ramp. Please read the invitation attached. Please bring your own garden gloves and a garden trowel if you have one. Nothing bigger than that please as we are maintaining the integrity of the soil on the foreshore. This part of the Franklin Historical Walking Trail project is coordinated by Franklin Landcare and Globalnet Academy. Students from the Franklin Primary School will be joining us. There will be future dates if you cannot make this date, including some weekend plantings.’See the attached flyer for more details: https://tinyurl.com/y85cgv9q
Posted Aug 25, 2018, 3:18 AM by Posts Editor
Funnies at Franks September 27thDavid Moore continues to bring the stars to Franklin: this time it is Richard Stubbs. For booking and other details see https://tinyurl.com/y8tcaln4
Posted Aug 23, 2018, 11:11 PM by Posts Editor
End of month BBQ coming upThis coming Monday night the cooks get to enjoy their nosh without having to provide for the rest of us. Come along to tea with something to put on the BBQ, something to share and some tales to tell around the fire.
Posted Aug 23, 2018, 9:49 PM by Posts Editor
Maritime Museum Talk 4th Sept: To CaliforniaJohn Wadsley writes:‘For our next talk, we’re going gold digging! Tony Marshall, former Senior Librarian, Heritage Collections at the State Library has unearthed a fascinating tale of two Tasmanians who ventured to California in 1850. As always, we will be at the Royal Society Room, TMAG, entrance off Davey Street, starting 12 noon, on Tuesday 4th September. See you all there!!’For more details see the attached flyer: https://tinyurl.com/yblptnbj
Posted Aug 23, 2018, 3:55 AM by Posts Editor
LBT financial membershipThanks to all those who have signed up for 2018-19. You should have received an acknowledgement by email. If you did not please contact the secretary at sec@lbt.org.au: we may have fluffed the books or may not have accurate contact details for you. If your ‘cheque is in the mail’ that’s great: it will mean you have voting rights at the AGM, and that you have access to our boats and equipment, and you are eligible to go on our expeditions such as Tawe Nunnugah.
Posted Aug 20, 2018, 4:32 PM by Posts Editor
Committee nominations for AGM September 22ndThe LBT elects a new committee at the AGM on the 22nd of September. Please consider nominating, or alternatively dob in a mate! Download the form from https://tinyurl.com/y8ao6buz , complete it, and put it in the orange postbox outside the shed door. Alternatively post it to 3337 Huon Hwy Franklin 7113. There are also paper copies of the form in a plastic sleeve on the table at the shed.
Posted Aug 21, 2018, 4:20 PM by Posts Editor
Auditor’s ReportThe auditor has approved the books prepared by our treasurer Rod Macfarlan, and his report can be viewed at https://tinyurl.com/yckvgac6 . Other documents for the AGM (22nd September) are available in the folder at https://tinyurl.com/y93olunt
Posted Aug 19, 2018, 1:54 AM by Posts Editor
Book launch 3pm Saturday 25thOur own Jane Johnson and Jill Bruce invite you to the launch of their new book ‘A Seahorse Story’ at the Bowmont: flyer attached: https://tinyurl.com/ycynyxdp
Posted Aug 18, 2018, 4:50 PM by Posts Editor
Learn to make oars and spars at the Wooden Boat CentreFrom their newsletter:‘We have our Oars and Spars Course running from October 1 to October 4 . Come along and learn the technique for oar and/or spar construction. Course fee is just $480 and the materials fee is $190 for Oregon oars. You can book online with the enrollment form on our website or call us on 03 62663586.’
Posted Aug 17, 2018, 6:57 AM by Posts Editor
Paul Cullen coming to tea September 3rdFor those who don’t know, Paul is the manager of the Australian Wooden Boat Festival and an old friend of the LBT. He is coming down ‘to bring members up to date on what’s been happening in the background and how we stand for planning the 2019 AWBF’. We look forward to him being our guest.
Posted Aug 17, 2018, 6:24 AM by Posts Editor
tn19 – help get the word outPlanning is well underway for the next tawe nunnugah Raid (30 January to 8 February 2019). The biennial Raid is the LBT’s main fund raising activity – it keeps the shed and the fleet financially afloat for the intervening two years. You can help the LBT by spreading the word about the Raid. If you frequent places where boatie people gather, please print out and pin-up the tn19 poster (connect to the full size tn19 poster here or https://tinyurl.com/ybtm42v8). If you know of a newsletter read by boatie people, please send them the poster and the Introduction to tn19 (link to Introduction to tn19 here). We’ve had a good response to our call for volunteers …
Posted Aug 12, 2018, 12:37 AM by Martin Riddle
Vale Andrew NichollsThe LBT has lost a good friend in Andrew. On many long expeditions, particularly Tawe Nunnugah, Andrew in his beautiful old gentleman’s cruiser ‘Tuna’ was a very reassuring presence, discretely shepherding the little boats along and offering assistance when required. There will be an event to remember him at the Lower Longley Pub on the 18th August from 3.00pm to 5.30pm to which all his friends are invited.Andrew’s family have donated a lovely old rudder to the LBT, just the thing by which to remember such an old seadog. Pic from Libor Sikora
Posted Aug 13, 2018, 2:34 PM by Posts Editor
On the Water ProgramOrganisation for our schools program has been quietly happening in the background, and we now have a core group of organisers and a schedule from Huonville Primary. We will take more schools on once we have sorted ourselves out with Huonville. They have nominated 9 days from October through to early December, which will run from 9am to 3pm including setup and cleanup. There is LOTS more detail on the website for the event: see https://tinyurl.com/yd79bfqq . If you think you can help add your name to the form below (https://tinyurl.com/yb2sxm75) and select some days when you think you should be available.
Posted Aug 10, 2018, 3:55 PM by Richard Forster
From stump to shipFor those of us with boat building fantasies (don’t we all) Geoff Steer points us to the ‘Acorn to Arabella’ project: ‘We are building a 38’ sailboat from stump to ship, once completed she will take us around the world.’ Website is http://www.acorntoarabella.com/, and lots of good videos on their YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCAiDWnTP0WB1xCp6uuUo0VA/featured If the lines of the boat (plan shown below) look a little familiar it could because she has the same designer as our ‘Gretchen’.
Posted Aug 10, 2018, 3:29 PM by Posts Editor
Wooden Boat Centre NewsGet the latest at https://tinyurl.com/y7o8qqhv. Find out about everything from extra power on the wharf to a course on building an Oughtred ‘Puffin’.
Posted Aug 5, 2018, 3:07 AM by Posts Editor
Repairing a gaff throatIt may not be a thing of beauty at the moment, but we are sure that this gaff throat will be when Dennis Muscovich has finished with it, just like the new mast cleats shown in the second pic below, that he and John Young have made and installed. If you fancy participating in this sort of repair work come along on Saturday mornings around 10am.
Posted Aug 4, 2018, 6:49 AM by Posts Editor
Practical SeamanshipAn excellent contribution to our bookshelves from Dennis Muscovich is ‘1000 Questions and Answers in Practical Seamanship’. Not sure how many stripes an admiral should have on their sleeve, or how to provision a whaleboat? Just consult this excellent tome.
Posted Aug 4, 2018, 6:38 AM by Posts Editor
Committee meeting agendaThe LBT Committee will meet on Wednesday 8th August and the agenda is being compiled at https://tinyurl.com/y94wxegw
Posted Aug 5, 2018, 3:07 AM by Posts Editor
Thank you somebodyAt a recent Monday dinner we toasted that somebody who puts out the garbage, mops the floors, cleans the dunnies, clears snags, keeps an eye on the boats and does sundry other things about the place without any special acknowledgement. We like somebody. They have been at it again, this time donating a reconditioned diesel motor which looks perfect for Viking. A very big thank you to them. Thanks also to Ian Kuhl from Franklin Marine and the Burgin family who helped organise this. A late postscript: Ian Kuhl tells us that this particular somebody is Peter Farley.
Posted Aug 3, 2018, 10:32 PM by Posts Editor
Remembering Greg Guy, Friday 17th AugustFriends of Greg are invited to an event at the Wooden Boat Centre at 4.30pm on the 17th. If you are considering going respond to the attached flyer: https://tinyurl.com/yboevmpk
Posted Aug 3, 2018, 2:33 AM by Posts Editor
Cruise with the Wooden Boat Guild November 25thOne of the highlights of our calendar in recent years has been the cruise to Huonville for lunch with the Guild. Andrew Perkins tells us that this year the plan is to do it all again on November 25th, so pencil it in.
Posted Aug 3, 2018, 1:27 AM by Posts Editor
Tally HoFor those interested in what is involved in restoring a large topsail schooner there is a nice collection of videos at http://sampsonboat.co.uk/. Thanks to Garry McDonald for reminding us about this one. Pic from http://sampsonboat.co.uk/
Posted Jul 31, 2018, 1:12 AM by Posts Editor
Reminder: Monday night do it yourself dinnerEven if Kate wanted to cook, she will still likely be at sea aboard Windeward Bound, so we are on our own. Let’s pile up a bonfire and make the most of it.
Posted Jul 27, 2018, 3:10 PM by Posts Editor
Tuesday group doingsGraham Wright has put together the following pictorial report. ‘The ‘Flying 15’ has had a covering of Dynel on the deck with Epoxy resin used to seal. Ran low on hardener so new stock being purchased this weekend to finish off on Tuesday. When painted will look like the original canvas but more robust. Bruce and Nick are still progressing with ‘Flathead’ except last Tuesday when it was ‘All hands on deck’ for mixing and spreading the epoxy resin on Flying 15 The rear seat in ‘Flathead’ has been rebuilt from new Celery Top to match the original which had rotted on one side. A new lid has also been made for the wet well, getting very close to the …
Posted Jul 27, 2018, 3:09 PM by Posts Editor
Australian Wooden Boat Festival newsletterGet the latest at https://tinyurl.com/yc624nqa . Seems Dave Golding is milling the timber for the ‘project boat’ again – this festival a Hereshoff Haven 12 1/2. Pic from AWBF
Posted Jul 24, 2018, 2:47 AM by Posts Editor
Boat pornOff Center Harbor (we’ll go with their American spelling) have put out a ‘best of’ video, which has some local interest for spice. See https://tinyurl.com/y8r5juyp
Posted Jul 24, 2018, 2:36 AM by Posts Editor
Museum Monthly Talk 7th August: YukonOur own Dave Nash and Ea Larssen will be presenting. Time: 12.00-1.00pm, Tuesday 7 August 2018 Place: Royal Society Room, Tasmanian Museum and Art Gallery, Customs House, 19 Davey St entrance.More details in the flyer attached: https://tinyurl.com/ybsz9737 . Worth reading if only for Ea’s bio: born in Greenland, who knew that!?
Posted Jul 24, 2018, 2:20 AM by Posts Editor
Public meeting 24th July: Dover woodchip facilityA big maritime policy decision which is pending is whether or not to proceed with the proposal to establish a woodchip export facility at Port Esperance (Dover). There will be a public meeting at Huonville Town Hall to discuss this on the 24th July. More details at https://www.huonvalley.tas.gov.au/notice-public-meeting/
Posted Jul 22, 2018, 5:24 AM by Posts Editor
Grebe with a mizzen sail? Yes it’s true – ‘Absent Friends’ has a rig with a loose footed main sail and a mizzen. We had it out for the first time in years whilst checking the rigging on Saturday morning.
Posted Jul 21, 2018, 1:51 AM by Posts Editor
Sister clipsSister clips are one of those beautifully simple ideas that are almost too good to be true. Jenny Tubman has sewn them onto those of our important flags that were missing them. Thanks Jen!
Posted Jul 21, 2018, 4:46 PM by Posts Editor
Huon Valley Festival November 10-11Joanna Jablonka from the Kermandie Hotel writes: ‘Oli and I would like to thank you and the Living Boat Trust for being supportive of our new initiative. This brand-new family friendly festival will be held on the Franklin oval and waterfront between November 10 -11, 2018. It promisesa unique offering of music, arts, comedy, food, river experiences and more for all to enjoy. Tickets for the Great Huon Valley Festival will go on sale August the 1st and we hope you and the other members can join us at the official launch and celebrate over some drinks, canapés and entertainment. This will take place at The Kermandie Waterfront Hotel at 6:30 PM. Key festival details will …
Posted Jul 19, 2018, 4:45 PM by Posts Editor
Dutch visitorsNell Tyson writes:‘After last year’s successful Dutch boat building exchange for the AWBF, Bert van Baar suggested some of his current students should see the places the others enjoyed. The three students have just finished an internship in NSW. In a very full day, they did a Yukon trip in the morning and I met them in the afternoon and we visited: Jeremy’s Cygnet Wooden Boats, Pieter Lundstedt’s wonderful collection, Lindsay Woods couta boat, Alex Jerrim’s wonderful green wood workshop and Ned Trewartha’s huge new shed in Woodbridge. Then it was a race to get back to LBT in time for dinner.’ Pic from Deb Van Velsen
Posted Jul 16, 2018, 7:50 PM by Posts Editor
Looking to borrow a generatorBec Enders writes: ‘Does anyone have a generator? We need two generators for powering electric drills on the foreshore in Franklin for the Franklin Historical Walking Trail project. The drills will make small holes for putting in plant tubes. The dates we need them for is the 27th of July and 2nd of August 2018. You would also need to be available on these dates to deliver and start the generators.’ Contact number: 0498 213 515
Posted Jul 16, 2018, 6:37 PM by Posts Editor
Imagine at Seven Inch BeachNice way to spend your Sunday. Pic from Endra O’May More pics from Annette Cauchi
Posted Jul 16, 2018, 6:04 PM by Posts Editor
Annual General MeetingWe are planning to have the AGM at the Bowls Club on the evening of Saturday 22nd September – put it in your diary with an asterisk. As always we will be electing a new committee. A number of current committee members, having served several years, are planning not to stand again, so there will be vacant positions. Please consider. The LBT is in healthy position both financially and organisationally, so this is no punishment posting – more an opportunity to promote and implement those ideas that you have known for years would improve the place. Have a chatter to anybody on the current committee to find out more about it – their names are listed on the website (https://tinyurl.com/yd9e82t8
Posted Jul 15, 2018, 10:37 PM by Richard Forster
Reminder: membership duesThanks to all those who have already paid their dues – looks like we will survive another year! If you haven’t, now is a good time: the LBT runs to a standard financial year beginning 1st July.
Posted Jul 15, 2018, 4:31 AM by Posts Editor
Future Tawe Nunnugah destinationsMike Dredge has been doing some exploring for us, proudly flying the burgee.
Posted Jul 9, 2018, 3:37 PM by Posts Editor
Sailing Saturday morningWell, when the rigging is fixed and the weather allows. In the meantime the LBT verandah catches the sun, and is a nice warm corner in which to evade housework. Come down and help replace busted cleats and frayed lacing around 10 am.
Posted Jul 8, 2018, 6:45 AM by Posts Editor
Yukon at mid-winter festYUKON-TOURS SPECIAL: Calm River Cruise on the 13/14/15 of July. Depart 10.30 am return12.00 pm. Weekend of the Huon Valley Mid-Winter Fest. All tickets concessionrate ($45) and children 1/2 price ($14). We will crank up the wood stove and make you a hot toddy, coffee or tea, tokeep you warm on the inside! See you on the water, might be snow on the mountain top, so bring your beanie : ) Book online: yukon-tours.com.au or call: 04898578 535
Posted Jul 4, 2018, 8:40 PM by Posts Editor
Laurence’s flags at our birthdayThe Burgin family have passed on to us from Laurence some very useful things, in particular an amplifier and, most visibly, his collection of flags. The pic below shows them set up to form a backdrop to our Monday night birthday celebrations, with the second pic (from Kate Hoorweg) showing those celebrations in action. Thanks Burgins (and Kate)!
Posted Jul 4, 2018, 8:36 PM by Posts Editor
Winter rowingPoor us. Pics from Dennis Muscovich.
Posted Jul 3, 2018, 4:12 PM by Posts Editor
The last of the LBT Birthday cakeKate serves it up. Thank you cake cook Ely Bell. Happy birthday to us!! Pics Kate Hoorweg
Posted Jul 2, 2018, 3:40 PM by Posts Editor
Fill in the log book each time you go out pleaseRowers and sailors need to fill in the log book whenever they take a boat out and include the names of those aboard, which boat, departure and docking times and any safety and maintenance issues encountered. This helps to keep the usage statistics as well as more importantly acting as a safety measure to ensure that crews log their activities in case there is a problem.
Posted Jul 1, 2018, 4:15 PM by Posts Editor
Wanted: ballast for GretchenPeter Laidlaw found these weights which will be good, but which are only a start. If you know where we can lay our hands on some similar heavy bricks, preferably lead, let us know (sec@lbt.org.au).
Posted Jun 30, 2018, 9:58 PM by Posts Editor
Reminder: LBT 20th Birthday dinner Monday 2nd JulyWe’ll light the bonfire to acknowledge that it is the depths of winter, but it may be superfluous because Kate promises to warm us up with lots of curry. An auspicious occasion.
Posted Jun 27, 2018, 7:10 PM by Posts Editor
Wood turning demonstration 9th JulySee details in the attached flyer (https://tinyurl.com/y7jut2k8)
Posted Jun 25, 2018, 5:09 PM by Posts Editor
Afternoon tea to remember Laurence Burgin June 30thMark Burgin is organising this informal, catered event at the Shed from 3-5pm next Saturday. More details will be provided through this column when they come to hand. Mark has written the following. ‘Laurence Burgin – sailor, boatbuilder, ship chandler, teacher and friend to many in the Huon Valley and wider boating community. Laurence grew up in Sydney and his love of sailing took him around the world before setting up Marine Stainless, a successful fabrication business that operated in Mooloolaba and later Sydney. After a number of Sydney to Hobart yacht races introduced him to the delights of Tasmania, he relocated to Franklin in 2009 and established Franklin Marine which brought much needed fishing and boating supples to the …
Posted Jun 24, 2018, 3:27 AM by Posts Editor
Expressions of Interest for tn19 RaidThe Expression of Interest (EOI) form for the 2019 tawe nunnugah small boat expedition, tn19 and Return Raid, is now open at: https://goo.gl/forms/Q3PkP70xYTtsAzwC3 Everyone who is thinking about doing the Raids should complete the EOI – whether you plan to bring your own boat, crew on someone else’s boat or row or sail on one of the LBT’s fleet of small boats. If you want to display your boat at the festival you also need to register with AWBF. If your boat has participated in tn19 and you are registered with AWBF you can display your boat on the water in the special section at the festival reserved for the tn19 fleet. To register for …
Posted Jun 24, 2018, 1:14 AM by Richard Forster
LBT membership renewalsLBT memberships lapse at the end of June and renewal notices will be sent out shortly. Payment details will be included in these notices: they remain the same as for previous years. Membership fees for the Living Boat Trust are: $40 p.a. for an individual; $70 p.a. for a family. Use one of the following three methods for payment to the LBT. * Cheque sent to 3337 Huon Hwy, Franklin, Tasmania, 7113. * By Electronic Funds Transfer (EFT) using your online bank account: BENDIGO BANK. HUONVILLE BRANCH, BSB 633-000, AC 149496275, LIVING BOAT TRUST. * Drop it into the office mailbox at the shed. However you pay MAKE SURE THERE IS SUFFICIENT INFORMATION INCLUDED TO IDENTIFY YOU. You can also …
Posted Jun 23, 2018, 6:54 PM by Posts Editor
NBN and other local Franklin matters: meeting 26th JuneFiona Peate writes: ‘attached is a pdf of the Progress Association flyer (https://tinyurl.com/yb5tub9k)…The meeting is scheduled for 7 pm on 26 June at the Palais Theatre. All are welcome. Russell Kelly will be a guest speaker about the NBN so community members can find out more, plus there is an opportunity for questions. There will also be an update on progress re consultation about RV camping at Franklin and the Franklin Foreshore Heritage Walk.’
Posted Jun 22, 2018, 6:38 AM by Posts Editor
Last Monday of the month BBQA reminder that it is the cook’s night off this coming Monday (25th), so come along to the LBT in the evening with something for you and something to share. Might be a good night to light a bonfire to celebrate the passing of the solstice. Pic from Wikimedia
Posted Jun 23, 2018, 6:20 PM by Posts Editor
Vale Laurence BurginLaurence passed away peacefully yesterday 20th June.
Posted Jun 21, 2018, 9:11 PM by Posts Editor
More than one way to rig a boatAs has been advertised in this column, a ‘How to rig a Grebe’ guide is being developed for the LBT (https://tinyurl.com/ybvj6flc). Gary Macdonald has pointed us to a nice video describing rigging a faering, a traditional Scandinavian fishing boat – see https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8SgZSs1ogQk There is a stick and rope method for tensioning the stays which we haven’t seen used outside latching farm gates.
Posted Jun 20, 2018, 7:04 PM by Posts Editor
Gangway donationMike Wilson has given us the gangway pictured below, which is a good match for our pontoons and will be very useful. Thanks Mike!
Posted Jun 20, 2018, 6:34 PM by Posts Editor
See tomorrow’s local cinematic superstars in action!How do you like them apples?Come along and view our local up-and-coming cinematic talent.On Saturday 30 June, 6 – 9pm, at the Palais Theatre in Franklin. The Huon Valley Council is showing 15 short films made by youth in the Huon Valley. FREE burgers, fries and a drink! And FREE buses departing from Dover and Cygnet at 5pm, and returning from Franklin at 9.30pm. Bookings essential for bus, and to make sure you get your free food and drink on the night.For more information about event and bus timetable, see link http://www.huonvalley.tas.gov.au/events/free-movie-night-short-films-huon-valley/RSVP Huon Valley Council 6264 0300
Posted Jun 19, 2018, 5:28 PM by Posts Editor
Happy birthday to us!The 24th of June is the 20th anniversary of the incorporation of the Living Boat Trust, and we are planning a special ‘MID WINTER CURRY AND BONFIRE NIGHT’ for Monday 2nd of July. Come along and get a slice of the special anniversary cake. Kate will be in charge in the kitchen, so we know it will all be good. Pic from wikimedia commons
Posted Jun 16, 2018, 8:42 PM by Posts Editor
Sunday afternoon matinee at the Palais July 1st: ‘Victim’‘Synopsis: Dirk Bogarde, in a career-defining role, plays a highly respected, but closeted, attorney who risks his marriage and reputation to bring to justice an elusive blackmail ring terrorizing gay men. (Courtesy Jim’s Reviews)’ Doors open 2.30pm, film starts at 3pm. Admission: $5 , Please bring a plate (with something on it) to share during intermission. Packet of biscuits is fine. Doesn’t appear to be too much that is nautical about this one, but we are sure it has redeeming features.
Posted Jun 16, 2018, 8:31 PM by Posts Editor
Thinking carbon neutral trading schoonersThe Adrian Dean trading schooner plans aren’t the only ones ready for lofting. John Young and Wunjo have drawn our attention to the ‘SailCargo’ project in Costa Rica. See http://www.sailcargo.org and https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NcdLx8Xd2Zc&t=17s for details. ref http://www.sailcargo.org/vessel/
Posted Jun 16, 2018, 8:14 PM by Posts Editor
Capricornia to come to Franklin?‘Capricornia’ has a long association with the Living Boat Trust, so much so that she has her own page on our website: see (https://tinyurl.com/ybrochj5). She had a major restoration in the shed about ten years ago, and since then she has been used at numerous events such as Swiftsure Regatta, On the Water (with schools) and Tawe Nunnugah. We have been asked if we would like to buy her. One factor which will influence this decision is how many members are interested in maintaining and sailing her. If you think you would be an ACTIVE member of a ‘friends of Capricornia’ group enter your name through the form below (https://goo.gl/forms/rJzsiIBfhBA4ZodE2).
Posted Jun 16, 2018, 9:42 PM by Posts Editor
Operations Manager of ‘One and All’ coming to dinnerWe are expecting Annie Roberts from the ‘One and All’ (http://oneandallship.com.au/) for dinner on Monday night. She has agreed to tell us a bit about what is going on with this tall ship, which is based in Adelaide.
Posted Jun 15, 2018, 10:27 PM by Posts Editor
Tasskiffie 2019?This is a repost from back in January at which time 2019 was a long way off. We are hoping that the advancing months are concentrating minds, and that some of those minds remember how great past Tasskiffie events have been, and want to help us do it, or something similar, again. The good news for these people is that: we are old hands at this now, and the organising is well documented (see https://goo.gl/UnW1Bk); there will be lots of support from the rowers, the LBT and its members; There is ‘money in the bank’ so the requirements for fund raising should be small; it is a whole of community festival, and much of the work can …
Posted Jun 16, 2018, 5:43 PM by Posts Editor
Rigging a Grebe for BeginnersLet’s face it, at the beginning of the season most of us end up putting the mast in around the wrong way at least once, and scratching our heads whilst puzzling over how to attach the gaff to the peak halyard. Succor is at hand! This handy illustrated guide (still being developed) should help save our blushes in future. See https://tinyurl.com/ybvj6flc
Posted Jun 10, 2018, 5:16 AM by Posts Editor
Committee Meeting this WednesdayThere is a draft agenda (still being worked on) at https://tinyurl.com/y9t8u45u , and the minutes for the last meeting can be viewed at https://tinyurl.com/y97kqsur ,or in the minutes folder on the website (lbt.org.au => Resources => Minutes 2017-18).
Posted Jun 10, 2018, 5:18 AM by Posts Editor
At the Palais – Tasdance Maker’s Company: Franklin we are coming for you!Afterthe warm response and welcome you gave us last year when we visited, Tasdanceis returning to Franklin! We will be working in residence at the Palais Theatrefrom: Tuesday 12th – Thursday 14th June. OnMonday11th Junewe will arrive to join you for the long tablecommunity dinner at the Living Boat Trust. On Tuesday12th June 6:00 – 7:30pm – sign up at carol@tasdance.com.au to join an Open Contemporary danceworkshop (no age restriction or dance experience necessary)!OnWednesday13th June, 5:30 – 7:00pm we invite you to attend anopen-door session. This is free of charge informal evening to share somefood, witness some …
Posted Jun 7, 2018, 2:37 AM by Posts Editor
Rigging the Grebes: session oneFirst job at the beginning of the season is to find the bits that are broken and missing, fix ’em and test ’em. For those who are new to Grebes it is a good way to get acquainted: for those with hazy memories a good way to get reacquainted. Session two (planned for next Saturday morning, 10am) will be more of the same.
Posted Jun 2, 2018, 6:15 PM by Posts Editor
Palais Theatre – Annual Giant Garage Sale Monday 11 JuneThe Palais Theatre is holding its Annual Giant Garage Sale on Queens Birthday Monday – 11 June, from 10am to 2pm.Pop in and have a look around for a bargain.There is still a space or two available for hire, should you wish to have your own stall. Please contact Noel Woodrow 6266 3480 or email him at noelwoodrow@bigpond.com
Posted Jun 1, 2018, 4:53 PM by Posts Editor
More on celebration for Laurence BurginMark Burgin writes: ‘For his many friends in the Huon Valley (& beyond) who are very important to him, we are organising a celebration on Saturday afternoon 2nd of June from 3-6pm at the Living Boat Trust in Franklin so that Laurence can share some memories and stories with you. Catering is provided and a nautical dress code will add some colour. Laurence has a fragile immune system, so please refrain from coming if you have a cold or flu. We trust you will understand. We would love to see you if you can make it and please let Laurence’s other friends know. ‘
Posted May 31, 2018, 3:33 PM by Posts Editor
How to rig a Grebe: Saturday June 2ndJump Aboard for the Jack Frost Saturday Sailing Season < As part of the Franklin Wooden Boat Adventures workshops > we extend an invitation to all LBT folk who would like to learn the simple art of rigging & sailing a grebe < weather permitting > < may later extend to whaleboat sailing > Planning to hold gatherings fortnightly Saturdays 1000 -1300 Beginning Saturday June 2nd NB : be warmly clad > Contact Wunjo 0458405530 for further info <
Posted May 30, 2018, 3:33 PM by Posts Editor
Help wanted next Tuesday morning, 10.30 amJohn Young writes:‘Kon Tiki is the only Flying Fifteen yacht to be built in Tasmania, (between 1951 and 1952 ),and the only one in the world to be built of Huon pine below the waterline, and King Billy pine for the topsides. … As custodians of the Maritime history of Tasmania, we could do a good deed by coming to the LBT at about morning tea time, next Tuesday,5th of June at 10.30am. We have removed the keel, temporarily, to mend a hole, and we have caulked the seams with a special, technologically advanced material, recommended by Peter Laidlaw, which sticks well in the seams, and will also compress as the water sucks into the wood and expands …
Posted May 30, 2018, 3:57 AM by Posts Editor
LBT launches on-line Incident, Hazard and Improvements formThe LBT Committee is continually working to improve the safety of all our activities. We have recently launched an on-line form for reporting incidents, hazards and for suggesting improvements. There is now a large button on the front page of the LBT’s web-site which takes you directly to the form. Use the form to report any incident whether or not it resulted in injury to people or damage to equipment or the environment. Use it to report near-misses, hazards you notice or improvements that will benefit the LBT and its members. When you submit the completed form it will be sent to all members of the LBT Committee for their attention. If you see something’s …
Posted May 29, 2018, 3:41 PM by Posts Editor
‘On the Water’ program for 2018Basil Van Reit from Huonville Primary School visited the Shed recently and expressed enthusiasm for a dose of ‘On the Water’ for his current batch of 5th Grade students. This is a rowing program that the LBT has run for many years now to introduce children to boating. The combination of our Grebes and the river make the LBT the perfect place for this sort of activity, and the growth in confidence and skill achieved by the kids is astonishing to see. Many of us who have been involved in the past would say that this is the most worthwhile thing we do. And it is fun! We would love to give a positive response to Basil (and invite other …
Posted Jul 5, 2018, 8:36 PM by Richard Forster
Classic Movie at the Palais June 3rd: ‘Cosi’Team Movies writes:‘This month’s classic movie is the wonderful 1996 Australian comedy / drama Cosi… Synopsis: Ben Mendelsohn plays Lewis Riley, an unemployed young man who applies for a job as a director/drama teacher at a mental hospital. He lands the job and finds himself directing a production of the Mozart opera Così fan tutte, an elaborate, demanding piece of theatre, an opera in Italian. And it is going to be performed by a cast that he must select from among the patients, who only speak English. (Courtesy Wikipedia)’. Doors open 6.30pm, film starts 7.15pm, gold coin donation, bring a plate
Posted May 27, 2018, 4:56 PM by Posts Editor
A celebration for Laurence Burgin, Saturday 2nd of JuneMark Burgin writes ‘Laurence has been living and working in the Huon Valley for 10 years and in that time built Franklin Marine and Marina, educated many mariners and helped instigate the upgrade of the leads up the Huon River to bring easy boating access to Franklin. Life has thrown a tough twist to Laurence, meaning he will be swallowing the anchor sooner rather than later. There will be a gathering with Laurence on Saturday 2nd of June from 3-6pm at the Living Boat Trust to celebrate his life and achievements and all his friends are welcome to join us.’
Posted May 27, 2018, 6:32 AM by Posts Editor
Tuesday Group ReportFrom Graham Wright: Geoff has spent a lot of time preparing all the bronze fittings and handrails for Gretchen, ready to be replaced once the final coats of paint have been applied. The new compressor has been tested and installed in the extension and Geoff has donated the hoses and some tools. To comply with various regulations a loft ladder has been installed to gain access to the storage area above the toilets and kitchen.
Posted May 25, 2018, 5:43 AM by Posts Editor
MMT Monthly talk: HMS Cracker – A master’s logThis talk will be presented at the Maritime Museum of Tasmania on Tuesday 5th June by Bill Jeffrey.’A prized possession in the Voyager collection is the log of Master Nicholson of HMS Cracker (12 gun-brig Archer Class) in 1810 enforcing the blockade in the English Channel. … This presentation will bring to life the Master’s log, which will also be on display.’For details see the attached flyer: https://tinyurl.com/ycybxxay
Posted May 25, 2018, 5:24 AM by Posts Editor
LBT shed under construction: 2003Ruth Young found a nice collection of photos of the first stage of the shed being built. View them at https://tinyurl.com/yc3vpzuc
Posted May 25, 2018, 4:11 AM by Posts Editor
Change of Plans – BYO Dinner this Monday 21stOur cook for the night has unfortunately had to pull out, so its BYO this Monday – please pass the word
Posted May 20, 2018, 12:09 AM by Posts Editor
Reminder – Grebe Hire Trial – come along on Tuesday and express your viewsFranklin Wooden Boat Adventures Meeting on TuesdayFWBAs Important Brainstorming Meeting thisTues 22nd 1100-1230 Greg Guy WharfEveryone is most welcome to attend & to contribute enthusiasm & brilliant ideas for the adventure pot. Report from John Young attached.Adrian Dean – our Merchant Schooner designer – will pop in for questions & have sketches of his craft – to inspire & encourage our energies forward-ho
Posted May 19, 2018, 3:39 PM by Posts Editor
RV site in Franklin – Community Consultation ends 28 MayA reminder that the Huon Valley Council is currently seeking communityviews to determine the level of support for an approved RV site on the Franklin foreshore, and if so whattype of RV site the community would like to see on the site. On Sunday 27 May at the Franklin Market (Palais Theatre), Council will have an officer and information available from 10am to 12 noon. Please drop in for a chat, and complete a survey form. For more detailed information, Council has a discussion papers available on their website, plus surveys for community members to complete. For Franklin:http://www.huonvalley.tas.gov.au/consultations/proposal-approved-rv-site-crown-land-leased-council-franklin-foreshore/For Shipwrights Point …
Posted May 18, 2018, 8:39 PM by Posts Editor
Antarctic Festival – Hobart – volunteers soughtLiz Lord is the Volunteers Manager of the Australian Antarctic Festival, and asks….. I am seeking expressions of interest from volunteers who could help in August 2-5 for the Antarctic Festival to be held around the docks in Hobart Registrations are now open, and I will be in contact to discuss the program, the roles available and what hours can be offered during the Festival Access for registration is through the portal & fill in your details http://www.antarcticfestival.com.au/volunteer/Thanks!
Posted May 18, 2018, 8:29 PM by Posts Editor
Classic Launch for SalePaul McArthy asks:Anyone looking to buy a boat like my “Argo”? I have bought larger and will need to let her go. You may know her, she is 2 or 3 boats down the dock outside the shed; the Huon Pine launch with the cover over. Hope to hear from you if you are able to help. Thanks & regards, Paul.If interested, please email Paul pmca88@gmail.com
Posted May 16, 2018, 2:47 AM by Posts Editor
Save the Date – Tues May 22 – planning for Wooden Boat AdventuresSAVE THE DATETUESMAY 22, 2018Toshare in the planning ofFranklin Wooden Boat Adventures FOR RIVER GUIDES andANYONEINTERESTED ingetting their feet wet around our Channel Shores GREG GUY WHARF 1100-1230(OR LBT SHED IF INCLEMENT)
Posted May 14, 2018, 11:43 PM by Posts Editor
Much Better Odds than the Pokies – beautiful canoe for only $10The Wooden Boat Centre is raffling a classic 4.5 metre strip planked western red cedar open canoe, plus paddle. Yukon River, here we come….Buy your tickets (only $10 each) from the Wooden Boat Centre, Franklin.Drawn Monday 3 September at Wooden Boat Centre. –
Posted May 13, 2018, 10:29 PM by Posts Editor
Volunteers Wanted for Marine Debris Clean-up in the Huon ValleyCoincidentally, after the flood last weekend, Nautical Resource Management has arranged a coastal clean up this coming Saturday. Volunteers wanted.Where: Charlottes Cove boat rampWhen: 9:30 AM – 3:00 PM Saturday 19th May 2018What to bring:- Sturdy shoes (some of the shoreline is unstable and slippery)- Gloves- Bright clothes or vest- Mobile phone (at least 1 per team)- Appropriate clothing for the day/layers (warm clothes, hat, jacket, beanie, spare socks…)- Sunscreen- Water, thermos- Animal feed bags for collecting litter (if possible)Catering: Coffee, tea and snacks will be offered at registration. BBQ lunch will be provided with salmon, meat, vegan and vegetarian options available. We are unable to cater for any special dietary requirements (gluten intolerant …
Posted May 13, 2018, 10:22 PM by Posts Editor
Flotsam and jetsam – I never know which is which……Unusually high tides plus a flood have brought down all kinds of debris – logs galore, and huge numbers of apples. Cider anyone?Apparently snakes have been washed out of their hiding places also.A note for trivia buffs…..‘Jetsam’ describes debris that was deliberately thrown overboard by a crew of a ship in distress, most often to lighten the ship’s load. The word ‘flotsam’ derives from the French word floter, to float. Jetsam is a shortened word for jettison. Under maritime law the distinction is important.
Posted May 10, 2018, 10:28 PM by Posts Editor
Franklin Wooden Boat Adventures – April TrialYou may have seen the flurry of excitementfrom many tourists & locals over the past month, when they realised theirgood fortune at being able to take themselves afloat in a little Grebe from ourfascinating fleet.A few hearty LBTvolunteers set up a couple of Grebes each day to entice passers-by to enjoy aunique experience upon our wonderful waterways, which naturally they ravedabout – as do we Our collectivethanks go to the Tues & Thurs men for keeping our little craft maintainedso well & equipment at the readyIt was indeed animpressive effort from all who assisted in initiating & deliberating to getbusiness plans & operations approvals through the bureaucracy of MAST &AMSA …. plus figure out …
Posted May 9, 2018, 1:30 AM by Posts Editor
Volunteers and equipment needed for tn19 RaidThe biennial tawe nunnugah small expedition is the Living Boat Trust’s main fund raiser and keeps the LBT financially afloat for the next two years. But it works both ways. We couldn’t run the Raids if we didn’t have an active and engaged membership maintaining and improving the LBT’s fleet and other assets throughout the year.We also need volunteers to help run the Raid smoothly. Without them the Raids just can’t happen. The purpose of this message is to ask for volunteers or offers of equipment to help with tn 19 (30 January to 8 February 2019) and the Return Raid (11 to 14 February 2019). If you can help by offering either your …
Posted May 4, 2018, 8:16 PM by Posts Editor
Billie’s Birthday Bounce Back!Its almost 3 years since Billie’s mid-winter launch and this skiff has seen a lot of water under its keel in that time. Currently its in dry dock in the shed for much needed TLC, in anticipation of a rejuvenated re-launch. Liz and Karen, the unsung heroes of skiff maintenance, always appreciate help on Wednesday mornings.
Posted May 4, 2018, 7:46 PM by Posts Editor
Community Consultation about Camping Grounds at Franklin and Shipwrights PointLong history (see link belowto Council documents)….but the Huon Valley Council has this week opened a 4week consultation period with the Franklin community and camping ground stakeholdersto determine the level of support for an approved Recreational Vehiclesite to be developed on Crown Land leased by Council land on the foreshoreat Franklin. At the same time, Council is also consulting about the future of RV camping at ShipwrightsPoint.The Council is seeking communityviews as to whether or not the sites should be used for RVs and if so whattype of RV site the community would like to see on the site.Ifthe outcome of this consultation is in support of an …
Posted May 2, 2018, 1:53 AM by Posts Editor
Rowing TouringA fast-growing element in the diverse world of rowing, is ‘rowing touring’. Interestingly, a European based organisation is planning a trip to Australia and is asking local rowers for help with suggested itineraries. See link https://rowingtheworld.com
Posted Apr 28, 2018, 11:20 PM by Posts Editor
Hazara Community visit to LBT and Apple Picking DayA gloriously sunny and calm Saturday greeted a group of former refugees who are now living in Hobart as they arrived at the LBT. This is the third year the LBT has hosted this group – a convoy of 15 cars thanks to the contacts and lots of coordination by Yabbo Thompson.The family groups were welcomed with refreshments – a big thanks to Tess for her cake, Jilly for turning Deb’s dodgy dough into cookies, and Jane A. for the mercy dash to replenish the tea and coffee supplies.The group tried out rowing and boating on the river – a huge thanks to Nell, Tess and Esi for skippering about 5 trips each on the Grebes, Martin and Deb for …
Posted Apr 23, 2018, 4:35 PM by Posts Editor
Volunteers Needed for Community Visit to LBT This SaturdaySorry for the short notice but the weather is going to be a wonderful 22 degrees and calm this Saturday! So the LBT is being visited by a group of former refugees and you are invited to come along at 10am to join in the fun and picnic lunch.The group of Hazara women, children and men came from Afghanistan. They enjoy visiting the Huon at this time of year to practice their driving, speaking English, and picking apples. But trying out the LBT boats (a skiff, grebe or a short Nancy trip has become the real highlight!) This is the third year they have asked to do this visit. The group pay to go on the boats, and this …
Posted Apr 18, 2018, 2:30 AM by Posts Editor
2018 Volunteer Service AwardsAgain, from the Franklin Progress Association…..It can be a tuff gig for Council staff to spread the news far and wide that it is time again to recognise those unsung volunteer heroes that work tirelessly in our community. Please forward this good news announcement to your contacts in the Huon Valley and consider nominating someone in your town.From Huon Valley CouncilDo you know people out in our community who are VOLUNTEERS? Why not nominate them for the 2108 Volunteer Service Awards. The guidelines and nomination form (fillable PDF) are attached, please complete and email to hvc@huonvalley.tas.gov.au or click here Nominations close Friday 4 May 2018 at 5pm. Kind regardsLisa PlohlCommunity Liaison …
Posted Apr 17, 2018, 12:39 AM by Posts Editor
Anzac Day Dawn Service – Volunteers Wanted PleaseFrom the Franklin Progress Association, a request for volunteers for the Anzac Day Dawn Service WANTED – five (5) VOLUNTEERS for kitchen, cooking, serving and cleaning duties (Franklin Bowls Club)WANTED – three (3) VOLUNTEERS for road safety and signage dutiesPlease contact Bec Enders if you are able to help out, or if you need more information.becjon@iinet.net.auMob: 0498 213 515
Posted Apr 17, 2018, 12:31 AM by Posts Editor
Up the Creek with a Greenland PaddleIn spite of the cold, blustery conditions, a good crowd turned out to see the launch of the latest fleet of skin on frame kayaks constructed, in just one week, at the Wooden Boat Centre. Expert instruction was on hand for the tyro paddlers as they powered away up the Huon in their smart new kayaks.
Posted Apr 14, 2018, 12:31 AM by Posts Editor
LBT 20th anniversary storiesA memory from Richard Foster…….Day4 was blown out. Some of the fleet gave it best and went home, butthe weather report for day 5 (Tuesday) was auspicious, and so the remaindergathered before 7 am to hoist sail. The promised northerly breeze turnedout to be a northerly zephyr – so those sails didn’t have much to do for awhile, and oars were more effective. Martin and Deb caused some mirth bymaintaining a reef – their Lazy E must be VERY twitchy – but the rest ofus did little better with all our canvas set. Somewhere between Middletonand Gordon we gave up and took a tow past the Gordon Corner, where a beautifulsoutheasterly sea …
Posted Apr 14, 2018, 12:22 AM by Posts Editor
Committee meeting Wednesday 11th AprilSee draft agenda (https://goo.gl/osC1hJ) and minutes of last meeting (https://goo.gl/oA6uiC). If there is an issue you want raised email sec@lbt.org.au .
Posted Apr 8, 2018, 2:29 PM by Posts Editor
Every little bit helpsDi Sullivan from ‘Pied Piper’ weeds the bed of native plants has been planted and maintained by Lorrie Harrison and the Landcare Group to define our front boundary and to provide a bit of screening. It’s coming along nicely, as well as providing a crop of feral tomatoes.
Posted Apr 8, 2018, 8:19 AM by Posts Editor
New sole for NancySteve McCusker and the Tuesday group have replaced the disintegrating sole (floor) in the cockpit of Nancy with one that is much more robust. It even has an inspection hatch for the motor! Pic from Steve McCusker
Posted Apr 8, 2018, 4:18 AM by Posts Editor
Monty returns from DoverEndra O’May sent us these nice snaps of Monty running before the wind up the river.
Posted Apr 8, 2018, 3:59 AM by Posts Editor
Port Esperance Easter Regatta: Rowing ResultsLorrie Harrison writes: ‘As expected this was a fantastic, fun, festival! Congratulations to the organisers and Port Esperance Sailing Club. Perfect rowing conditions were provided in the bay for our Saturday races,which we all very much enjoyed and the food at the festival, YUM!!’ Women’s 1km Position Team Time 1 LBT – Billie (C.F.B.) 6.29 2 Cygnet 6.46 3 LBT 6.57 4 Dover 8.44 Men’s 1km Position Team Time 1 Dover 6.26 2 LBT 6.37 3 Cygnet 6.38 4 Mixed 7.00 Mixed 1km Position Team Time 1 LBT 7.01 1 Dover 7.01 3 Cygnet 7.06 4 LBT 7.26 Mixed 5km Position Team Time 1 …
Posted Apr 6, 2018, 4:57 PM by Posts Editor
Dragons are Coming!This Saturday 7th will see an unusual sight on the Huon River with up to 7 dragon boats taking part in the 32km Huon Challenge. With up to 20 paddlers per boat, that’s a lot of paddle action! The day starts 8am at Port Huon, then up to Huonville, with a Franklin finish. For more details see https://www.derwentstorms.com.au/huon-challenge-2018/
Posted Apr 5, 2018, 12:05 AM by Posts Editor
tawe nunnugah 2019 (tn19) mailing list is now open – the countdown has begunIf you are interested in the 2019 tawe nunnugah Raid or any of the related activities, either as a participant or as a helper, sign on to the tn19 mailing list (http://eepurl.com/dncOgn). Signingon to the mailing list doesn’t confirm you a spot but it does mean you willreceive up-dates as soon as we send them out. Even if you have already told us you are interested in tn19 (we may have forgotten) the only way to be certain that you will get the up-dates is to join the mailing list. This year we have done away with the old Expression of Interest form and are replacing it with a booking …
Posted Apr 5, 2018, 11:21 PM by Posts Editor
tn19 web-site and Calendar of Events releasedPreparations for tawe nunnugah 2019 are gearing up – follow the progress on our web-site at http://tawe-nunnugah.org. Activities begin with a Welcome Dinner in Franklin on 29 January, followed by the 10-day fully catered small boat expedition from Recherche Bay arriving in Hobart in time for the Australian Wooden Boat Festival, then the 4-day Return Raid (raid lite) from Hobart back to Franklin and finally a weekend regatta of sailing and rowing competitions. Put the dates in your diary now. The full Calendar of Events around tawe nunnugah 2019 is available at http://tawe-nunnugah.org Pic from Endra O’May
Posted Apr 3, 2018, 3:34 PM by Posts Editor
Be careful of moored yachts on gusty daysWe watched ‘Pied Piper’ drift slowly to the end of her mooring line on an outgoing tide, then charge up river and swing around on her length when caught by a gust . Any dinghies being rowed nearby would have been in a spot of bother – in other words become fodder for the ‘Submerged’ exhibition currently on at Dover.
Posted Apr 3, 2018, 3:10 PM by Posts Editor
‘Submerged’ exhibition at the Dover Museum and Gallery This may be a distasteful topic for we sailors, but Mike Dredge tells us that these ‘stories of Australia’s shipwrecks’ put together by the Australian National Maritime Museum and being exhibited at Dover through April are well worth seeing. The gallery website is https://www.farsouthtasmania.com/attractions/dover-museum-and-gallery
Posted Apr 1, 2018, 5:35 AM by Posts Editor
Easter Monday dinner at the LBTKate is backing up after her stellar efforts last Thursday, and the normal Monday evening dinner is on.
Posted Apr 1, 2018, 5:20 AM by Posts Editor
Pics from Port Esperance RegattaSee below. Saturday morning was perfect for rowing, and the events were hotly contested. Perhaps the most significant result for the LBT was the victory of the women’s team in the open five kilometre race. Congratulations to them. The bonus for all or us was that the Dover Seafest was on in the adjacent park, with lots of good food, drink and entertainment. How lucky are we to have a bit of water like Port Esperance right on our doorstep?
Posted Mar 31, 2018, 2:59 AM by Posts Editor
Thank you John and Ruth, on the occasion of our 20thOn Thursday night the Wooden Boat Centre and the Living Boat Trust combined forces for an event to thank John and Ruth Young for their contribution to the establishment and continued success of both our organisations. It was the hottest ticket in town: the secretary was sorely tempted to do some fund raising with a bit of surreptitious scalping. And we weren’t disappointed. The Thursday group had the shed shining like a new pin, Kate cooked up a storm, there was speechifying to put Cicero to shame and everybody had a jolly good time. Pics from Martin Riddle
Posted Mar 31, 2018, 2:17 AM by Posts Editor
‘The Lady in the Van’ at the Palais, April 1stTeam movies advises us that when they dusted off and opened the box labeled ‘Victim’, the intended movie for the week, what it had in it were the reels for ‘The Lady in Van’, so that is what we are going to see: Sunday night at 7.15 pm; $5; Bring a plate.
Posted Mar 31, 2018, 2:19 AM by Posts Editor
Dover Seafest, Easter SaturdayLooking for an extra reason to come down to the Port Esperance Regatta? This could be it. They promise:free kids activities; food stalls; Makers & Growers Market; Regatta activities; Local busking talent; & a special offerings. See the website for more details: http://www.huonvalley.tas.gov.au/events/dover-seafest/
Posted Mar 30, 2018, 1:37 PM by Posts Editor
Franklin Palais Classic Movie Sunday: VictimSynopsis Dirk Bogarde, in a career-defining role, plays a highly respected, but closeted, attorney who risks his marriage and reputation to bring to justice an elusive blackmail ring terrorizing gay men. (Courtesy Jim’s Reviews). Details attached: https://tinyurl.com/ya5mwvpq
Posted Mar 28, 2018, 4:20 PM by Posts Editor
Sailing dronesMarine and Safety Tasmania: Notice No.: M61-18; Title: Navigation Warning Sailing Drones; Valid From: 28/3/2018; Valid Until: 30/9/2018. Notice Content: CSIRO are continuing their trials with sailing drones. Drones will be launchedin Storm Bay on Wednesday, 28 March 2018 and will be operating along the EastCoast for approximately six months. The vessels are 7m in length and approximately 4m in height with a brightorange sail and will have a tri-colour light on top. Drones will be picked upon radar. Mariners should keep a lookout for these drones and navigate with caution. Pic from Australian Broadcasting Commission
Posted Mar 28, 2018, 4:21 PM by Posts Editor
Franklin Walking TrailFiona Peate, secretary of the Franklin Progress Association, has sent us the final plans for the walking trail, which runs downstream from the boat ramp near the camp ground. Larger version attached: https://tinyurl.com/ycsg2ppb
Posted Mar 28, 2018, 4:02 PM by Posts Editor
For sale: ‘Last One’Newly constructed Derwent Skiff. Contact Ian and Di. Details in attached flyer: https://tinyurl.com/ybrxtahp
Posted Mar 28, 2018, 3:50 PM by Posts Editor
Rowing Program at Dover (Easter Saturday)Port Esperance Easter Regatta 2018 Dover Pharmacy St. Ayles Skiff Rowing Event Date: Saturday 31st March Registrations: 08 30 Port Esperance Sailing Club. $5 per rowing crew member Start Procedure Boats will be called up to the start line by the starter on start boat ‘La Chalope’. Once all the boats are in position the starter will raise the start flag to alert crews they should be ready to row. The race will start on the fall of the flag. Course 1 Km The start line will be a line from start boat ‘La Chalope’ to a pink mooring buoy to the south. Boats will start in an easterly direction along the beach to a turning mark at 500m …
Posted Mar 28, 2018, 5:03 AM by Posts Editor
Monty is on her way – under oarsThe plan was to sail Monty down to Port Huon for an early start for Dover in the morning, but the predicted north east breeze turned out to be a south-west zephyr. No matter: out with the oars and despite an incoming tide she was down to the yacht club at Shipwright’s Point and tying up in good time.
Posted Mar 27, 2018, 1:50 PM by Posts Editor
Saloon class to Dover Regatta on YukonIf you want to voyage to Dover for the Port Esperance Regatta we believe that there are still berths on Yukon. For details see the web page: http://yukon-tours.com.au/local-regattas-2018/We think we recognise the suspects in the pic below.
Posted Mar 27, 2018, 5:04 AM by Posts Editor
It’s tough at the LBTWhen Brian Marriott complained about lumps in the newly laid path to the front door he was told to fix it himself.
Posted Mar 25, 2018, 1:05 AM by Posts Editor
WoW 20th Anniversary Good Friday RowLorrie Harrison writes:‘This year – on its 20th anniversary – we are celebrating all things LBT! Great boats, great sailing, great rowing, really great friendships and brilliant events. This is an opportunity for all women of the LBT to get out on the water together. So, come on down to the LBT on Easter Friday at 9am, organise yourselves into boats, take your morning tea of coffee/tea, hot crossed buns, Easter eggs and row into the canal. We stop for our usual conversations then row around the island back to the LBT. We have had some great moments in past years. Join us for this special event.Easter Friday 30th March 9am’
Posted Mar 24, 2018, 6:45 PM by Richard Forster
‘Bring your own’ MondayTomorrow being the last Monday of the month the cooks are taking a break and we fend for ourselves at dinner time. Bring something to put on the barby, something to share, and $5 to throw in the kitty. Pic from Majam
Posted Mar 24, 2018, 5:00 PM by Posts Editor
For sale: a wooden boat with provenanceStuart Lennox writes: ‘The Leederry was an 80 foot trading ketch built of huon pine, which plied the Bass Strait trade mid 20 century.The Leederry sank off Bad ger island I believe date unknown, though i did see the information at the maritime museum on Flinders island. Only remaining artefact is its original life boat :16ft 5in L 6ft 2in B 2ft 4in D;huon pine clinker , has had a centerboard added and a gunter rig; Structural work undertaken by shipwright, bulkhead, foredeck beams and samson post.$2000.00 ono. please phone 62535361’
Posted Mar 24, 2018, 4:43 PM by Posts Editor
Nancy to be part of Thursday celebrations: come earlyActivities for the evening get underway at the Wooden Boat Centre at 6.30pm next Thursday (see flyer below), but those who want to come a little earlier can take advantage of Nancy being available for FREE short excursions trips from 5.30pm on. Looks like the tide will be high enough to get through the Egg Island Canal, so that is maybe where she will be going. Pic from Andy Wilson
Posted Mar 23, 2018, 4:08 PM by Posts Editor
The Next Maritime Museum Monthly talk – Tuesday 3 AprilJohn Wadsley writes: ‘Please find attached (https://bit.ly/2udsPBB) our latest flyer for the next Monthly Talk. Firstly, apologies, that the previously advertised topic on the Port of Hobart Strategic Plan has had to be postponed until July. But what we have as a replacement is great. Our April presentation is going to take us into the exciting and dangerous world of maritime search and rescue operations, as witnessed by one of the film crew that created the acclaimed documentary series, “The Real Water Rats”. Varcha Sidwell is an award-winning filmmaker who was on-board filming real operations. She will not only show some excerpts from the series, but also bring real eye-witness commentary on just what …
Posted Mar 23, 2018, 3:26 PM by Posts Editor
Hiring out our boats: meeting 28th MarchHans Sipsma writes: ‘The LBT owns a lot of incredibly beautiful and precious small wooden boats which are sadly underused and the Boat Hire idea has the potential to address that and create some employment, stimulate the local economy and enhance the attraction of Franklin at the same time. John Young and David Hume have done many months of painstaking work to get this idea off the ground and we are close to realising the project, but there are still one or two structural issues to resolve before it can be launched as a commercially viable community enterprise. It has been decided therefore, by a newly formed FWBA steering committee, that we can at this point commence with a trial …
Posted Mar 23, 2018, 2:49 PM by Posts Editor
Tuesday group reportPics and words from Graham Wright. After a lot of work ‘Flathead’ turned over to sort out all the bits for the inside which arrived separately. Gretchen, starting to install the bunks and cupboards, all the brass an dbronze polished as new, a couple of coats of paint and ready to go. We even found the outboard bracket, only been missing for 6 years or so.Flying 15 ready to silicon the cracks and a lot of paint and then this rare version back on the mooring. FCR has been laid to the front door to facilitate wheelchair access.
Posted Mar 22, 2018, 2:50 PM by Richard Forster
Skiffs at Port Esperance Easter RegattaLorrie Harrison writes: ‘We have two St Ayles Skiffs going down for the races on Easter Saturday. 1km races in the morning and 5km race in the afternoon. We are still in need of some extra rowers so let me know if you can join us: lorrieharrison@tpg.com.au’Pic from Nell Tyson
Posted Mar 17, 2018, 7:45 PM by Posts Editor
Twilight Rowing 7This coming Friday will be our last Twilight Racing for some time, so now is your chance to practice competitive rowing in a fun atmosphere with a relaxed cider at the end! A good opportunity for those rowing at Dover to get in some training. Register before 5pm on Friday 23 March. Pic from Lorrie Harrison
Posted Mar 18, 2018, 2:25 PM by Posts Editor
The Lake Macquarie Classic Boat AssociationMore from our roving reporter, who has been in the Hunter Valley. Lake Macquarie is just south of Newcastle, and is an ideal place for small boats – big enough for lengthy excursions, but still sheltered compared to the Pacific Ocean right next door. The immediate point of interest was the St Ayles Skiff ‘Catalina‘, which has just been built and launched by the Association. The mystery of the boat’s name was revealed: the shed in which it resides is on the old RAAF base, from which they used to launch and fly Catalinas. ‘Catalina’ is being very actively rowed, and took part in their recent BoatFest 2018. She is only one of many boats being built, restored or used …
Posted Mar 16, 2018, 8:08 PM by Posts Editor
Our first twenty years: celebrate on Thursday March 29thSome time ago Ruth Young wrote a typically lucid and concise ‘Beginnings of the LBT’, which can be read at https://goo.gl/Bsb96P . A key date which Ruth identified in this history is ‘Incorporation’ which occurred in 2008 – and now we’ve made it to ripe old age of 20! The first of what we hope are multiple celebrations to honor this momentous event will kick off on the evening of Thursday March 29th, and is being organised in conjunction with the Wooden Boat Centre. There will be an exhibition and some ceremonials at the Centre starting at 6.30pm, followed by a dinner at the 7.30pm at the LBT. See the flyer below for more details. RSVP …
Posted Mar 16, 2018, 5:13 PM by Posts Editor
Living Boat Trust 20th AnniversaryJilly Archer writes: ‘The LBT became an incorporated body on 24th June 1998, and we want to celebrate this year’s anniversary and use it to reflect on where we have come from and where we are going. You dear Members can play your part by telling us what and who you’d like to know about, or maybe you like to write a piece yourself. As an example of the latter, some of the anecdotes associated with the LBT journey will be part of this correspondent’s contribution to the anniversary, to be shared with those who weren’t members at the time who want to know more about the people, the boats, machinery and events which have been …
Posted Mar 17, 2018, 3:24 PM by Posts Editor
1912 outboard motor: the ArchimedesSpotted by our roving reporter in Newcastle, here is one for the petrol heads. According to Wikipedia the first production outboard motors came onto the market in 1906, so this example is very early days. Wayne Barrett, who is restoring it, writes:‘It was made by the Archimedes company in Sweden which was in the 1930s bought out by Volvo Penta. It is a two stroke of 2.25HP and weighs in at about 60kgs. The majority of the motor and shaft are brass and the cylinders are cast iron. It is water cooled and the rudder steers independent of the propeller, somewhat like a ship.’More details and pics from Wayne are attached: https://goo.gl/HDvm5Z
Posted Mar 16, 2018, 3:24 PM by Posts Editor
Looking for a crewIan Johnston writes: ‘I have a beautifully converted crayfishing boat with a ketch rig and Gardner motor. I have had a crew drop out yesterday. I am looking for one or two people to crew on the boat from Port Davey up to Strahan – about a week to explore the most beautiful part of Tasmania. No experience necessary but you need to be reasonably fit and agile with an adventurous spirit. Leaving on the 26th March. Contact Ian on 0418202957 or ianjohnstonmarine@gmail.com. Soon.’Update: Ian tells us that he now has a west coast crew, but is still needs one for the east coast at a later date.
Posted Mar 15, 2018, 2:03 PM by Posts Editor
Hire an LBT boat: meeting Monday March 12The LBT constitution admonishes us to ‘promote Tasmania’s maritime heritage by the provision of related educational and recreational opportunities to people of all ages, interests and abilities’. To this end we have for many years held a ‘right to hire’ license for our rowing and sailing fleet. Trouble is that, except on rare occasions, it has all been too hard to put into action. Marketing, ticketing, etc, etc, you get the picture. Now John Young and David Hume have worked through a lot of the complications and are set to go with another try at it. David writes: ‘As you are aware, John and I have been working hard, mostly ploughing through red tape, to bring into reality the …
Posted Mar 7, 2018, 6:52 AM by Posts Editor
Maria in MarchJane Johnson writes: ‘Twenty explorers crossed the Mercury Passage on Saturday, March 3, consisting of three St Ayles Skiff crews, a sailing boat duo, two manning the safety boat and a one-woman Mirage sea kayaker. The adventurers aimed to navigate and explore the scenic coastline of the southern, less well-known section of Maria Island, a landmark with an interesting history.’ For her full report read on: https://goo.gl/4PNUHb Pics from Jane Johnson
Posted Mar 6, 2018, 11:27 PM by Posts Editor
Grant Seeker Workshop, Wednesday 4th March‘A free grant writing workshop to learn tips and get support on how to navigate the grant seeking process.’ For details see the attached invitation: https://goo.gl/UWpw5M
Posted Mar 6, 2018, 1:03 AM by Posts Editor
Monty to Port Esperance Easter RegattaMonty went to this regatta last year and had a great time. A large part of the fun was getting there and back: Franklin to Dover is a nice day voyage. If we can raise a crew we’d like to do it all again: express your enthusiasm for participating by entering your name in the form below (https://goo.gl/1i49XN). Monty on her way to Port Esperance last year – pic from Endra O’May
Posted Mar 6, 2018, 11:48 PM by Posts Editor
Council Community Information SessionThe third of four Huon Valley Council Community Information Sessions is being held at the Huonville Town Hall, Wednesday 7th March from 6-8pm. This is your chance to have your say and let Council know what is important to you in your area. Huon Valley Council Commissioner Adriana Taylor and the Council’s management team will be on hand to discuss future plans for your area, and give you an opportunity to meet with staff face-to-face. For more details see the attached invitation: https://goo.gl/SpEiC9
Posted Mar 6, 2018, 12:57 AM by Posts Editor
Punto goes to Port DaveyJilly Archer sent us the picture below with the following description: ‘Punto starting out on her big adventure under the guidance of First Hand for Yukon, Ewan Laidlaw’. Punto has already proved herself to be an excellent yacht tender, and she will fit very neatly on the foredeck of Yukon. Looks like she could do with a paint job at the end of the season.
Posted Mar 6, 2018, 12:57 AM by Posts Editor
First Skiff in NSW?Looks like the Lake Macquarie (near Newcastle) crew have launched: see the article in the ‘Lake News’: https://goo.gl/EfsnF3 Pic from ‘Lakes News’
Posted Mar 4, 2018, 4:14 AM by Posts Editor
Concert at the LBT Shed, Sunday March 11thKate Hoorweg writes:“Bruce Young from Woof Gallery in Franklin released his first album, ‘Supernova’, last year. ‘Bruce Young and the Pearl Handled Pistols’ will be performing a free concert at the Living Boat Trust next Sunday 11th of March from 2pm. This concert will be a sneak preview of songs for the new soon-to-be-released album ‘Riversong’ which is a a little bit country rock with a decidedly Tasmanian twist and a lot of love! Come on down, check out some local talent, enjoy great music for a Sunday Session at the LBT!”
Posted Mar 4, 2018, 4:11 AM by Posts Editor
Skiffs at Port Esperance Easter RegattaLorrie Harrison writes: ‘Matt from Dover has invited us again to be part of their Easter Regatta and join in the St.Ayles Skiff rowing activities on Saturday March 31st. Similar to last year we will have 1 km races for men’s, women’s and mixed teams. There will also be the 5km Hope Island race in the afternoon.’For more details see the invitation attached: https://goo.gl/tzwJvN
Posted Mar 4, 2018, 3:31 AM by Posts Editor
Franklin from aboveIan Johnston has been taking pictures to illustrate mooring locations, and sent us these beautiful images.
Posted Mar 1, 2018, 4:34 PM by Posts Editor
Franklin Walking Trail updateBec Enders from the progress association writes:‘Please find attached an updated information sheet about the Franklin Historical Walking Trail (https://goo.gl/vdej8E). Should you have any questions or want to know how you can get involved, please phone me on 0498 213 515. On Saturday, copies of the updated information sheet will be available at the Franklin Post Office. Please feel free to share this information with anyone you think may be interested in the project.’
Posted Mar 1, 2018, 3:39 PM by Posts Editor
Port Esperance Regatta Saturday 31st March and Sunday 1st AprilRebecca Hancock writes:Entries are now open for the 2018 Port Esperance Huon Salmon Easter Regatta. ‘This year’s Regatta will be part of a great Easter weekend comprising the Kingborough Boating Club Barnes Bay Regatta and the Port Esperance Sailing Club’s Regatta. So that keen yachties can attend both events, the Kingborough Boat Club Regatta will be held on Friday 30th March, with presentations and a BBQ on the Friday evening at Barnes Bay. Then, the Port Esperance Sailing Club’s Regatta will kick off on Saturday morning with a race from Barnes Bay to Dover. In addition to the sailing, participants will enjoy a welcome spit roast on Saturday evening at the Port Esperance Sailing Club, with …
Posted Feb 28, 2018, 7:15 PM by Posts Editor
‘Ali’s Wedding’ at the Palais, Sunday March 4Team Movies writes: ‘We are in a state of excitement because on Sunday March 4, we will be screening the 2017 Australian romantic comedy film, Ali’s Wedding. (Oh what a tangle web we weave when we practise to deceive!!!!!!!! ). Starring the multi-talented actor, writer, director, and stand-up comedian, Osamah Sami.Rated M (Mature themes and coarse language). Synopsis: After a reckless lie sets off a catastrophic chain of events, Ali, the son of a Muslim cleric, finds himself caught between his sense of duty to his family and following his heart. Based on real events, Ali’s Wedding is an irreverent, warm-hearted comedy, and an affectionate and vivid portrait of Islamic life in Australia. (Courtesy Rotten …
Posted Feb 25, 2018, 2:14 PM by Posts Editor
Before and afterThe LBT sent a team and a half to the Skiff and Whaleboat Regatta at Warrnambool this weekend, which meant that the women ended up competing in both their own and the mixed events. That meant at least 12 one kilometre sprints each over Saturday and Sunday, several of them end to end, and much of it into winds gusting to 30 knots. Pic one below shows them looking a little apprehensively at the whaleboat oars (the length, the size of those blades), pic two shows that by the afternoon their fears had been realised. But they did it. The males in the half team were in awe.Another great regatta organised by our friends at Warrnambool. We plan to …
Posted Feb 25, 2018, 1:11 AM by Posts Editor
The Great Barrier Raid (NZ)Many LBTers have very fond memories of the last New Zealand Raid, and it looks like the Enzeders are having fun on this one: see https://raidnz.org/2018/02/20/gt-barrier-raid-2018/ . That has to be Endra O’May in the background of the pic below, so we can ask her when she gets back.
Posted Feb 25, 2018, 2:17 PM by Posts Editor
Funnies at Frank’s March 8thDavid Moore writes:The next FunnieS at Frank’s is an International Women‘s DayCelebration. BUT OF COURSE MEN CAN COME TO THE SHOW TOO! In fact, everyone can come along. It just happens, well we made it happen for a reason, that the show is all women for women, but men’s money is gratefully accepted. Flyers have gone out, the Facebook event and related posts are sharing like mad and tickets are selling well. So if you fancy coming along you should probably buy tickets before strangers get them all 😉 Buy tickets now at: https://www.trybooking.com/TUSR See attached for more information: https://goo.gl/aT6o9E
Posted Feb 21, 2018, 6:29 PM by Posts Editor
MARIA ISLAND VISIT – INVITATION to BBQ Feb 26(BYO food/drink) at LBT Mon Feb 26 @ 6pmHi All…there are 25 people interested in attending the Maria expedition Mar 3 & 4. Details of the trip, crews etc to be confirmed at the BBQ..hope to see you there. If you are unable to attend, emails will be sent with details by Wednesday Feb 28. All decisions about the routes will be based on the forecast and in the event of bad weather, Plan B details will be confirmed. Looking forward to joining everyone in a proposed 7-boat and 1 kayak adventure!Jane 0400717140 Pic from Parks Tasmania
Posted Feb 21, 2018, 4:20 PM by Posts Editor
Wooden Boat Festival newsletterGet it at https://goo.gl/F4RLQu. All sorts of stories, including one about the Haven 12.5 (pictured) to be built in Franklin by a team visiting from the US. Pic from AWBF
Posted Feb 20, 2018, 1:33 PM by Posts Editor
Wooden Boat Centre February newsletterSee attached: https://goo.gl/zHEv89. Pic below (from John and Ruth Young) is from the newsletter and shows the original shed under construction (or rather reconstruction). To find out more read all about it.
Posted Feb 18, 2018, 12:41 PM by Posts Editor
Reminder: trailer maintenance workshop 25th February This will include some pointers on what to think about and do when loading and driving, and some basic maintenance. It will be very hands on: our trailers need maintenance before they can be taken out again! Details are attached below (see https://goo.gl/FMWW8R). Submit your name using the following form if you would like to participate.
Posted Feb 18, 2018, 11:46 AM by Posts Editor
AWBF coming to Monday 19th DinnerIt doesn’t seem long ago that we were looking at the highlights for the 2017 Australian Wooden Boat Festival, and already planning is underway for 2019. Paul Cullen and Darryl Peebles are coming to discuss it with us next Monday. Should be an interesting night, and an opportunity to communicate some of our own priorities.
Posted Feb 14, 2018, 7:00 PM by Posts Editor
More on Maria Island expeditionJane Johnson writes: MARIA ISLAND MEETING LBT Feb 12. Route – At present, the preferable route is to leave from Spring Beach and head towards Darlington, point to point is 8km. From Darlington it is a further 12 km to Encampment Cove. The weather/general consensus may mean that we veer towards Encampment Cove, past Lachlan Island, (not able to land here) rather than go all the way into Darlington to reduce the journey for one day. Camping at Encampment Cove – there is a water tank, although the ranger advised taking own water supply for three days, and there are toilets. Camping is free here, and we have enough parks passes to cover 20 people. Please advise Jane if you have …
Posted Feb 13, 2018, 4:39 PM by Posts Editor
Trailer maintenance workshop 25th FebMike Dredge has very kindly offered to run a boat trailer management course on Sunday February 25th. This will include some pointers on what to think about and do when loading and driving, and some basic maintenance. Details are attached below (see https://goo.gl/FMWW8R). Submit your name using the following form if you would like to participate.
Posted Feb 13, 2018, 4:32 PM by Posts Editor
Friday twilight rowing updateBarb Dawson writes:‘Numbers are continuing to grow for Friday’s mixed Twilight rowing. Grebes are proving ideal for this sort of racing. Plenty more room in the boats, or bring your own. Come along – get some exercise, have fun, and a drink together afterwards. Come down to the LBT this Friday – register for your choice of boat on the day – by 5pm please.’
Posted Feb 11, 2018, 2:52 AM by Posts Editor
LBT Committee meeting, Wednesday 14th FebThe agenda is being compiled at https://goo.gl/FMmeQ1. Email any extra items you want discussed to sec@lbt.org.au . Draft minutes for last month’s meeting (which will be reviewed) are at https://goo.gl/8psuPZ
Posted Feb 11, 2018, 2:48 AM by Posts Editor
Working BoatsThis publication from AMSA has some interesting reading: download it from https://goo.gl/W1Phou. We met some of the ‘Mayflower’ mob when they were setting up an exhibition at the Adelaide Show. She is a real success story.
Posted Feb 8, 2018, 4:04 PM by Posts Editor
Ouch! That mud has teethBrian Marriott writes:‘Bugger. Slipped into the mud on the riverside at Franklin and the left foot caught something on the way down. A loud crack and the crazy angle of the foot showed me that I won’t be walking for a while 🙁 . But the folks at RHH are great and are looking after me wonderfully! Thanks also to all who helped me at Franklin while I was lying in the mud!’
Posted Feb 7, 2018, 5:20 PM by Posts Editor
Sod turning day for the Franklin Historical Walk: Feb 14Bec Enders (from the Progress Association) writes:‘Council will be ready soon to construct the aggregated concrete path on the foreshore in Franklin. The Franklin Progress Association has been working closely with the Franklin History Group over the last six months to identify properties of significant historical interest. The plaques for these properties will be made in late February. We are also really excited that the Franklin Primary School will be working with us on not only the planting of the foreshore but also the children will produce a child’s map for the walking trail. The Franklin Progress Association would appreciate your support and attendance to see the soil turned at a ‘sod turning ceremony’ down on the foreshore …
Posted Feb 7, 2018, 4:45 PM by Posts Editor
Staff development day at the LBTOn Tuesday the staff from Huonville Primary came ‘on the water’ with us to the Cradoc landing, most rowing in the Grebes and some doing it more luxuriously in Nancy, which also brought along the victuals. As can be seen from the pictures it was a beautiful, still, warm day and by morning tea time the rowers had worked up a healthy sweat and were ready for some shade. If they had been students they would undoubtedly have been in the water. Photo from Brian Marriott
Posted Feb 9, 2018, 2:05 PM by Posts Editor
Twilight RacingBarb Dawson writes: ‘Our newest LBT event got off to a brilliant start on Friday evening. Five boat loads of eager rowers lined up at the start line for the long (skiffs -5km) and short (smaller boats- 4km) courses. Billie headed into an early lead, with our single rower, Richard Forster, reaching the canal first. The extremely low tide made for some interesting maneuvering through the always calm Egg Island Canal, the smaller boats attempted to overtake Richard in Punto but she maintained her lead till the end. Racing over, we settled down for a convivial chat over a few ciders, wine and delicacies. What better way to celebrate the end of a working week? Let’s get more Grebes …
Posted Feb 4, 2018, 4:48 AM by Posts Editor
Nancy in 1960Ian Giles took this snap of Nancy when he was visiting has uncle, ‘Skipper’ Giles, who owned the boat at the time. Ian came aboard and showed us where he slept: a different time and a different life for Nancy. Thanks Ian!
Posted Feb 4, 2018, 3:04 AM by Posts Editor
The Wake of the May Queen‘A story of hard yakka, hauling timber, apples and just about anything, through some of Tasmania’s most remote waters. The May Queen is a true survivor, at 150 she’s the oldest Australian trading vessel still afloat.’ See it all on iView: https://goo.gl/7hc73M
Posted Feb 1, 2018, 9:28 PM by Posts Editor
Rowing Regatta Franklin, 3-4 FebMarine and Safety Tasmania have posted the following notice. ‘A Rowing Regatta will be held on the Huon River at Franklin on Saturday, 3 and Sunday, 4 February 2018. Mariners are advised the River will be closed for other boating pursuits from 0730 to 1700 hours. Boat owners are restricted from using the boat ramp at Franklin and from entering the rowing restricted area during these times. The restricted area is the course and 500 metres either side of the course. The course is 1500m upstream from the Huon Rowing Club and 500m downstream. Boat owners must follow directions of rowing officials. A public boat ramp is available at Shipwrights Point south of Franklin.’
Posted Feb 1, 2018, 8:11 PM by Posts Editor
Proposed Maria Island excursionJane Johnson recently organised a meeting of those interested, and here are the notes.Maria Island Mar 2-5 Update Jan 29 1. There have been 15 people who have put their name on the list for Maria adventures. There is likely to be 1 skiff crew from Cygnet, no word from Taroona, a possible involvement from Spring Bay.2. Election Sat Mar 3 means postal voting will have to be organised, or vote near Orford3. The Aboriginal name for Maria is Toarra-marra-monah thanks to Dennis. ? add to Tawe Nunnegah which loosely means journey by boat4. Parks passes are needed for entry to Maria Island as a National Park…we have enough passes to cover these …
Posted Jan 30, 2018, 1:50 PM by Posts Editor
Nancy’s older (uglier) sisterThe National Maritime Museum in Sydney may want to take issue with the second adjective above, but we reckon we have the Cinderella of the siblings (http://mv-nancy-tours.org). Checkout ‘Protex’ at the Museum if you are up there, and tell us if we are wrong – see https://goo.gl/wdGbDW for more details. Pic from National Maritime Museum
Posted Jan 30, 2018, 1:39 PM by Posts Editor
BOOK NOW – AMMC Workshop – 22-23 February – SydneyFrom John Wadsley. Sydney Heritage Fleet and the Australian National Maritime Museum Workshop Features: • Sessions aboard Tall Ship JAMES CRAIG alongside at Wharf 7, ANMM. • and at SHF’s Rozelle Bay restoration & maintenance workshops. • SHF historic vessel harbour transfer from Darling Harbour to Rozelle Bay. The workshop is an opportunity to discover and discuss the challenges and achievements involved with the restoration process of historic vessels of all types and sizes.REGISTER NOW ONLINE – https://www.trybooking.com/book/event?eid=342758• Delegate fee: $60pp – includes morning/afternoon teas and lunches. • Workshop Dinner with guest speaker – Thursday 22 February – held at ANMM’s Waterside venue: Canapés, two-course dinner, glass of wine and coffee – $75pp (optional event) OUTLINE PROGRAM. Thursday …
Posted Jan 30, 2018, 1:18 PM by Posts Editor
The mystery of the tidesFor years the LBT homepage has had a link (top right) to Willy Weather, which presents tide predictions in an easy to read graphical format – see the following pic. It was recently drawn to our attention that the Willy Weather predictions for Port Huon (https://goo.gl/fRtwzV) differ significantly from those of the Met Bureau (https://goo.gl/WjWew6) which seemed worrying. Table of tides for Port Huon from Willy Weather. Table tides for Port Huon from the Met Bureau.The plot thickened when Brian Marriott pointed out that the river height at Huonville is tidal (see https://goo.gl/GvcDvV and https://goo.gl/C87UBt), and that it provided a way of backchecking these predictions. The first thing …
Posted Jan 30, 2018, 12:55 PM by Posts Editor
MAY QUEEN and the SIXAREENThe full title of the first of the monthly talks organised by the Maritime Museum for 2018 is “MAY QUEEN and the SIXAREEN – ARCHAEOLOGY of JOURNEYING”. It will be given by Jack Chesterman.Time: 12.00-1.00pm, Tuesday 6 February 2018 Place: Royal Society Room, Tasmanian Museum and Art Gallery, Customs House, 19 Davey St entrance. ‘Jack Chesterman’s new exhibition “MAY QUEEN and the SIXAREEN – ARCHAEOLOGY of JOURNEYING” opens on Saturday, 3 February in the Carnegie Gallery at the Maritime Museum and will run until 22 April 2018…. This exhibition explores one of our favourite local vessels, the May Queen in honour of her 150th birthday last year. It also looks at the sixareen, a traditional clinker-built …
Posted Jan 29, 2018, 6:15 PM by Posts Editor
LeshelenThree years ago Leshelen arrived at the Wooden Boat Centre in very poor condition (see https://goo.gl/h9bcKC). After an extensive rebuild and restoration she was ready to go on the water, which happened today (Tuesday). There was a certain amount of heart in mouth, but those who know how to balance a boat on slings did a great job, and she soared over the dinghy shed perfectly level and with no drama at all to land on her lines in the river. And they did remember to put the bung in. Congratulations to David Nash and others who have done the work, and to the owners for seeing the project through.
Posted Jan 30, 2018, 1:01 PM by Posts Editor
Twilight Rowing – starting Friday 2 FebruaryFrom Barb Dawson: Several regular rowers have agreed that it would be a great idea to start weekly twilightrowing races – from Friday 2 February (until daylight saving ends). The idea is to provide the opportunityfor anyone (male or female) who wants to improve their rowing fitness to take part in rowingraces, to have some fun on the river and to socialise (drinks, nibbles, BBQ?) afterwards. Racing will be conducted on a handicap basis, so everyone will be finishing around the same time. Any type ofrowing/paddling boat can take part – skiffs, Grebes, whaleboats, privatedinghies, kayaks – and approximate rowing time for the race would be 45 – 60 mins. Programme Rowers register on Friday afternoon to form …
Posted Jan 28, 2018, 4:03 AM by Posts Editor
LBT at Australia DayThe Australia Day organisers were hoping for some on the water action from the LBT and Yukon for the happy throng at the Franklin Oval on January 26th, and we provided. Skipper Brian Pain scarcely had time for a cup of coffee between joy ride trips on Nancy – he was inundated with passengers. Graham Rankin supervised the kids making paddles, who then took them down to the water and tested them out in the Grebes. It was the first time in a boat for many of them. The grown ups had the same opportunity in the Skiffs, supervised by Lorrie and the rowers.Thanks to all who helped make this such a successful day – too many to name. Yet another …
Posted Jan 28, 2018, 11:26 AM by Posts Editor
Classic Movie Bagdad Cafe, Palais, Feb 4thTeam Movies writes:‘This month’s February classic movie is the 1987 quirky, magical film ‘Bagdad Cafe’…. Synopsis: After breaking down in the middle of the California desert, a German couple begin to argue, and the wife walks. She ends up at a flea-bitten truck stop that is the second home to a group of odd characters, and she begins to transform their lives. (Courtesy Rotten Tomatoes). Doors open 6.30pm, film starts when someone flicks the lights. After 7.15pm but before 7.30pm. Admission: Gold coin donation (to cover cleaning/heating). Bar will be running with reasonably priced quality refreshments to assist with the laughter & joy this magical film will bring, serving the usual red/white/beer …
Posted Jan 27, 2018, 6:56 PM by Posts Editor
State Elections: public meeting 13th FebruaryPat Singe (Huon Valley Residents and Ratepayers Association) writes: ‘As you probably know the state election has now been announced for the 3rd March and HVRRA is holding a special ‘Election Q&A’ at 7pm on the 13th Feb in the Huonville Town Hall. It should be an interesting opportunity to put questions to the candidates/party reps and/or Adriana Taylor who will also be on the panel. So please note the time/date, mention it to friends and give some thought to a question or two for the evening… Please “like and share” this notice on our Facebook Page to help get the word out: https://www.facebook.com/HuonValleyResidentsandRatepayersAssociation/ ‘
Posted Jan 27, 2018, 6:19 PM by Posts Editor
Tuesday Group Report (January 23rd)Pictures and story from Graham Wright. Gretchen: The interior painting finished and most of the outside has two coats of undercoat. The hatches and some of the cabin items are ready for painting and the hand rails and slides for varnishing. It’s been a long time coming but it’s getting closer to going back in the water. Flathead: After months of scraping and filling cracks with new timber, replacing some rotting timber and making a new knee for the bow, work has progressed. New timber is being prepared to support the keel and some of the original timber has been restored while marine silicon is being applied between the planks. The Flying Fifteen: With all hands on deck …
Posted Jan 25, 2018, 5:11 AM by Posts Editor
Final Reminder: Australia Day this coming Friday 26thThe LBT is running activities on the water and in the marquee down at the Franklin Oval through the morning and into the early afternoon. Join the happy crew by submitting your name throught the form below (https://goo.gl/Px5hsi).
Posted Jan 21, 2018, 12:31 PM by Posts Editor
Cruise in company to Maria Island?Sound like a good idea? It does to Jane Johnson and friends. See the proposal attached (https://goo.gl/ChDsN3), and contact Jane if you are interested: 0400 717140 or email jenjane2012@gmail.com
Posted Jan 20, 2018, 12:36 PM by Posts Editor
AWBF info session, Friday 2nd Feb, 5.30pmPaul Cullen writes:The attached flyer (https://goo.gl/cKwssC) announces a free, public information session about the 2019 Australian Wooden Boat Festival at the Waterside Pavilion, Mawson Place on Friday 2 February at 5:30 pm. This will be of interest to boat owners, potential volunteers, business owners and others who would like to know what’s being planned, and how they can have an influence on those plans, 12 months before the event. Please feel free to pass this message on to anyone who might like to attend.
Posted Jan 19, 2018, 1:24 PM by Posts Editor
New caps availableFrom the WOW newsletter (but available to everybody):caps for sale Friday Social row and WoW meeting $12; Australia Day $12 members $15 non members; or at the shed; also available without LBT logo $5.
Posted Jan 18, 2018, 6:08 PM by Posts Editor
‘Last One’ in FranklinDi Sullivan writes: ‘[LBT member] Ian Moncrieff’s ‘Last One’ an Alan Witt designed Derwent Skiff, was launched in Adelaide a couple of weeks ago. This week she was rowed for the first time on the Huon, performing beautifully as expected. The Captain of the Adelaide Rowing Club gave her the thumbs up, “Ian she rows like a dream.” Faint praise indeed.’ She’s now tucked up like a bug in a rug on the LBT lawn, waiting for a Monday night for more of us to try her out. See pics (from Di) below.
Posted Jan 18, 2018, 6:09 PM by Posts Editor
Accommodation in Franklin wanted, starting in DecemberAnne Holst (Wooden Boat Centre) and Paul Cullen (Australian Wooden Boat Festival) write: ‘There will be a crew of US boatbuilders and students in Franklin to build a ‘Haven 12 1/2’ beginning second week of December for 8 weeks prior to the next Wooden Boat Festival. They are looking for help with accommodation in Franklin for this crew… this is an opportunity for local people to make a few dollars without the agency fees if they have a house or apartment they would like to make available. We are a public, free event supporting the wooden boat community and hope that a similar spirit might spur a few offers. These are delightful, talented and enthusiastic people who made us …
Posted Jan 17, 2018, 10:46 PM by Posts Editor
Navigation Hazard – North West Bay, ElectronaMarine and Safety Tasmania , Notice No.: M08-18, Valid From: 18/1/2018 , until: 31/1/2018. Mariners are advised a yacht has sunk on a mooring at Electrona in position: 43o 03.633 S / 147o 15.97E. The tip of the mast is just below the surface at high tide. Mariners should exercise caution in the area.
Posted Jan 17, 2018, 9:56 PM by Posts Editor
More on the Kettering Wooden Boat RallyLorrie Harrison writes:‘Graeme, from Kettering Yacht Club, has invited us to join a small craft event from Kettering to the Woodbridge Pub (Peppermint Bay) for lunch & return on Saturday 10th February Leaving Kettering at 10:30am, some 3km each way. If you want a seat in a skiff let Lorrie know (lorrieharrison@tpg.com.au) if you would like to take your own small craft, including kayaks, fill out the Kettering Yacht Club form: https://goo.gl/WDTS6S’
Posted Jan 17, 2018, 2:46 PM by Posts Editor
Use of LBT assets policyMartin Riddle writes:‘The LBT Committee recently launched a policy on the use of LBT assets. The Committee was very pleased that the policy stimulated discussion and response from members. Some responses identified details of managing individual assets that were more appropriate to specific guidelines developed by the user groups and sub-committees responsible for day-to-day management of assets. We have edited the policy to further emphasise the distinction between this top-level policy covering all LBT assets and guidelines for day-to-day management of individual assets. The over-arching purpose of this policy is to ensure all LBT assets are managed for the benefit of members in a consistent way. Use of assets by non-members …
Posted Jan 16, 2018, 6:21 PM by Martin Riddle
Athol Walters classic for sale10 metre carvel huon pine cruiser and club racer: see the ad for details: https://goo.gl/bs3y4x
Posted Jan 16, 2018, 12:15 PM by Posts Editor
For those interested in salmon farmingLorrie Harrison points out that Tassal are conducting tours of their deep sea operations. Register at http://discovertassal.com.au/
Posted Jan 14, 2018, 2:35 PM by Posts Editor
Fancy a row in Scotland?Marguerite Porte has passed on the following invitation from Topher Dawson of Scottish Coastal rowing: ‘I hope you are all well and getting some rowing in. I’d like to draw your attention to the fact that a venue and a time has been set for the 2019 [St Ayles Skiff] World Championships which will be at Stranraer in Dumfries and Galloway in SW Scotland. It’s a great venue and there is a friendly and expert group of people who are working on extending a welcome to maybe 60 skiffs and 2000 rowers. Skiffs will be available to borrow so all we need is your rowers. Without you guys it would not be a Worlds so I hope to …
Posted Jan 14, 2018, 12:58 PM by Posts Editor
Mid Summer Sing at the Palais – Saturday 20th JanBarb Dawson writes: ‘From 10am to 3pm, the Mid-Summer Sing is primarily an opportunity for members of the Sing For Your Life! Choir to get together during the summer … and THE EVENT IS ALSO OPEN TO ANYONE ELSE who loves to sing, and would like to join in a big day of great harmonies. Singers of all levels of experience (including beginners) are welcome – it’s a great chance to sing in a supportive, friendly environment, and if you enjoy the workshop you’re welcome to join the SFYL! Choir when the 2018 ‘choir year’ starts in March. Cost $40/$35. For more details, see Palais website http://franklinpalais.com/event/mid-summer-sing-workshop/ ‘
Posted Jan 14, 2018, 12:46 PM by Posts Editor
Franklin Palais Collective re-opensBarb Dawson writes: ‘The Franklin Palais Collective is once again open as an outlet for local producers and artisans, and a place for locals and visitors to visit. The Collective sells a range of items – including Huon Valley produce, arts and crafts, books, local honeys, plants, wooden items and natural cosmetics. We are always on the lookout for new, good quality locally produced or sourced stock. Volunteers operate the Collective, and it is open from Friday to Sunday, 10am to 3pm. Everyone is welcome to call in and say hello.’
Posted Jan 14, 2018, 12:49 PM by Posts Editor
Huon Council electionsBec Enders writes:‘I spoke with Pat Synge of the Huon Valley Residents and Rate-Payers Association today who advised that they will be holding an event at the Huon Valley Town Hall on Tuesday 13th February 2018 at 7pm. The purpose of this event is to invite State Government politicians and persons interested in the upcoming Huon Valley Council election and give the Huon Valley community an opportunity to ask questions. ‘
Posted Jan 14, 2018, 12:37 PM by Posts Editor
Tasskiffie 2019Yes, we know it is a long way off, but we do need to start thinking about the next St Ayles Skiff Regatta, and that requires coordinators, and we are looking for them. The good news for these people is that: we are old hands at this now, and the organising is well documented (see https://goo.gl/UnW1Bk); there will be lots of support from the rowers, the LBT and its members; There is ‘money in the bank’ so the requirements for fund raising should be small; it is a whole of community festival, and much of the work can be delegated to groups such as the local primary school. The LBT functions because we share the workload: here …
Posted Jan 11, 2018, 12:24 AM by Posts Editor
Kettering Wooden Boat Rally: 10th-11th FebThe organisers write:‘The next Kettering Wooden Boat Rally is not far away. It will be held on the weekend of 10th and 11th February 2018, with a preliminary twilight race on Friday 9th. We hope you will consider joining us for the fifth Kettering Wooden Boat Rally, and have attached an information sheet and entry form. If you have any queries, don’t hesitate to contact Roscoe Barnett or Jim Tayton. Their contact details are on the information sheet.’Information sheet (https://goo.gl/VyZmNm) and entry form (https://goo.gl/4EjoWP) attached.
Posted Jan 10, 2018, 4:10 PM by Posts Editor
Warrnambool Regatta, 24-25 FebOne team has already registered for this event, and we reckon there should be more: it’s a great, traditional event, based around whaleboats but now including Skiffs. See the details at https://www.warrnambool.vic.gov.au/south-west-regatta , get organised, and get there.
Posted Jan 10, 2018, 1:25 PM by Posts Editor
Caring for ImagineWhen Liz and Karen pulled up the mats to paint the inside of Imagine they discovered a small amount of rot in the frames (see pics below). It can be fixed, but it was a reminder that we should be lifting the mats and sponging out any moisture each time the boat is used. Having the Skiffs moored and ready to go is a great boon, but it does mean that we have to care for them a bit more.
Posted Jan 10, 2018, 1:09 PM by Posts Editor
Mooring Lease Riseley’s BayKaren Corbin writes:‘First bay north of Huon Yacht Club, Shipwright’s Point. Strong mooring, good depth. $25 per week. Phone 0455 555344 or 0458 406894’
Posted Jan 10, 2018, 12:53 PM by Posts Editor
Spotted on the HuonOver the years Bob Frost has provided many beautiful photographs to the LBT and to the local community. His latest collection, entitled ‘A quick trip around Tasmania’ can be found at https://goo.gl/zzr8Hk – well worth a look. The pic below caught Mike Dredge’s eye – that’s him teaching the grandsons to row in one of the Grebes, with Missy in the back contemplating mischief. Pic from Bob Frost
Posted Jan 9, 2018, 1:39 PM by Posts Editor
Tree2Sea Project in FranklinZainab Clark writes: ‘Zainab Clark’s husband Jafar (Youth Development Coach with Colony 47) wishes to establish a project for disengaged young people to help build skills and confidence that may lead to future employment. Following a short-lived but successful boat building project (Tree2Sea) in New Norfolk he feels that a similar one in Franklin would be particularly appropriate with all the boat building skills and knowledge available here. There are many possibilities, from taking a log and milling it locally to buying a kit and building from there. The finished product could be anything from a canoe, kayak up to a St. Ayles Skiff or a Grebe, with the boat being auctioned, or sold to a club or …
Posted Jan 8, 2018, 1:26 PM by Posts Editor
Roadworks around FranklinSuzannah Kerr from State Growth writes:‘Shoulder sealing will be undertaken along a 5.5 kilometre section of the highway south of Franklin from the Fleurtys Road junction to Shipwrights Point in Port Huon. Road works will commence in January 2018 and be completed by the end of April 2018, subject to weather conditions. The work will also include sealing the gravel informal pull-over area opposite Huon Eldercare in Franklin. This will be sealed and signed to provide a viewing / photo opportunity area for tourists to safely stop off the highway.’For more details see the attached flyer: https://goo.gl/HAL8Md
Posted Jan 8, 2018, 12:05 PM by Posts Editor
Pulsating at the Palais – Upcoming ConcertsBarb Dawson writes: ‘As LBT members know, nothing better after hard day’s boating than a good concert – two great musical events coming to the Palais soon. Thursday 18 January – HimmerlandEnsemble. Scandinavian based ensemble, fresh from 2018 Cygnet Folk Festival – a unique blend of old Danish ballads, whirling fiddle tunes, breathtaking improvisations. Doors open 6.30pm, show starts at 7pm. Bar open. Tickets $20 – available online at https://trybooking.com/339895 or at door (unless sold out). Friday 19 January – The HeartCollectors – with special guest, Famous Will. Australian Folk group ‘The Heart Collectors’, transcend conventionality and genre with their old-school alternative folk sound, bringing back the sentimentality of 70’s inspired harmonies, combined with a progressive lyrical …
Posted Jan 6, 2018, 2:18 PM by Posts Editor
Getting the word out (and in)A few years ago the LBT committee formalised an internal process for delegating decision making – you can see it on the committee web page (https://goo.gl/qtS4kp). A couple of members have gently pointed out that this process is all very well as far as it goes, but lacks a step for ventillating wider issues outside the committee before decisions are made. To remedy the situation it is proposed that this step be added: ‘If there is a larger issue at stake the committee may choose to canvas it with the membership through the newsletter, Monday night dinners etc, soliciting input. This input will be considered when the LBT Committee makes its final decisions.’ If you have comments or …
Posted Jan 10, 2018, 3:19 AM by Posts Editor
Be part of LBT Australia DayA couple of years ago the local Australia Day celebrations were moved from Huonville to Franklin oval, which importantly meant that activities could not only be by the river but also ON the river. Our long suit. Lorrie and the team have the novice rowers queued up to have a go on the Skiffs, the LBT marquee is full of happy paddle makers who issue forth to try out their handiwork in the Grebes, and Nancy is busy plying up and down with passengers who want a more leisurely nautical experience. It’s a great day – all we need is enough people come along on FRIDAY 26TH JANUARY to run it. If you can help out add your name to …
Posted Jan 4, 2018, 1:39 PM by Posts Editor
LBT Committee Meeting AgendaThe next committee meeting is on Wednesday 10th of January. The agenda is being compiled at https://goo.gl/B2BqDu . Correspondence for the committee to consider should be sent to sec@lbt.org.au. Draft minutes from the December meeting can be viewed at https://goo.gl/CQMWVi
Posted Jan 3, 2018, 2:32 PM by Posts Editor
Movie at the Palais, Sunday Jan 7thTeam Movies writes: ‘2018 Classic Movies will be off to a flying start by screening the sensational 2016 Mongolian film, ‘The Eagle Huntress’. Synopsis: This spellbinding documentary follows Aisholpan, a 13-year-old Mongolian girl who is fighting to become the first female eagle hunter in twelve generations of her nomadic Kazakh family. Through breathtaking aerial cinematography and intimate verite footage, the film captures her personal journey while also addressing universal themes like female empowerment, the natural world, coming of age and the onset of modernity. (Courtesy IMDb)’ Doors open 6.30pm, film starts 7.15pm. Admission $5 (children under 16 free). Bar will be running with reasonably priced quality refreshments to assist with digesting this high quality offering, the …
Posted Dec 31, 2017, 2:24 PM by Posts Editor
Christmas present for the LBTTony Dow sent a message this morning informing us that his weather station at south Franklin is back up and running. This is great news: Tony’s site has been sorely missed over the last year. The LBT homepage has been updated to show the live weather information and live webcam image that Tony supplies. Click on either of these and you get all the weather details you could possibly want. See the screen shot below. Thanks Tony!
Posted Dec 28, 2017, 7:46 PM by Posts Editor
BillieRob Turner writes: ‘My partner and I are grey nomads, travelling in a motorhome & Suzuki, from Fremantle, WA and currently 6 weeks into our 4 months stay in Tasmania. Last Tuesday 19th Dec. we were driving from Geeveston to Huonville and stopped mid-morning to enjoy the foreshore in Franklin and take a few photos – one of ‘Billie’ attached. It turned out to be quite a significant day and event for me. Firstly, I was quite happy with the images I took. I photograph a lot in our travels and every now and again rewarded with a stand out image – such the attached image of Billie. Soon after taking the photo I had a phone call from my son in …
Posted Dec 26, 2017, 9:36 PM by Posts Editor
Happy Christmas from the LBTKate tells us that the first Monday night dinner will be on the 8th of January. The Tuesday group are starting back on the 2nd January: In the meantime we will be having a break. Happy Christmas everybody.
Posted Dec 25, 2017, 3:27 AM by Posts Editor
Navigation Warning – Channel AreaMAST Notice: ‘Mariners are advised that a number of long lengths of rope may be floating free in the southern Channel area. MAST has been made aware that one clump in excess of 100m long was found earlier this week near Partridge Island and that another three or four may still be missing. Mariners should transit with care and report any rope or marine farm debris to 1300 706 973.’ Valid from 22/12/2017 until 22/1/2018.
Posted Dec 22, 2017, 3:54 PM by Posts Editor
FlattyA very intriguing little fishing dinghy nicknamed ‘Flatty’ has been under restoration in the shed for some time now. Steve McCusker has sent these pictures showing progress.
Posted Dec 22, 2017, 1:56 PM by Posts Editor
‘Last One’ heading for FranklinWe have received the following report from South Australia. ‘LBT member Ian Moncrieff, who hangs about the LBT during summer whilst living with wife Di on yacht Pied Piper 11, has built his ‘Last One’, boat that is. Last one to be built and Last One by name. An Alan Witt designed ply Derwent Skiff, it will travel on the top of the car from the home garage in Adelaide, to Franklin where it will be relaunched and rowed. Ian and Di can’t wait to arrive mid January to connect with friends again, skim along The Huon in Last One, and cruise the south east in Pied Piper 11 till the end of April. You may catch them tied …
Posted Dec 22, 2017, 12:21 PM by Posts Editor
Kiwi Raid 2018New Zealand Coastal Rowing writes:‘The Kiwi Raid 2018 is to be a St Ayles skiff event based at Gt Barrier island 18-25th February 2018. The Raid will be based out of Orama Oasis in Karaka Bay and will be a week of exciting day trips including The broken islands, Katherine bay, Smokehouse bay, Mt Hobson walk and the Kauri dams, Glenfern sanctuary, plus fishing and swimming and maybe a pure white beach or two to lay on. Accommodation will be camping although Orama do have other options available and meals provided. Spaces are limited to 20 people and filling up fast so if you are interested contactsteve@nztbs.org for more info or to register your place
Posted Dec 21, 2017, 4:30 PM by Posts Editor
Foreshore consultation reportBec Enders from the Progress Association writes: ‘On 16 November 2017, the Franklin Progress Association facilitated a community consultation event at the Palais Theatre to gauge whether there was broad community agreement and support for a master plan for the north Franklin Foreshore and to provide an opportunity to address any concerns raised. We now provide you with a document that summarises the community discussion, presentations, questions and outcome.’ See attached: https://goo.gl/1yK2gS
Posted Dec 14, 2017, 4:44 PM by Posts Editor
Rat Racers Resort to Rodent RascalityMartin Riddle reports: ‘Once again the Rat Island Race brought out the highest of competitive spirit and the lowest of rat-cunning in LBT’s sailing members at the recent Swiftsure Regatta. A good fleet of 7 vessels started the race which can be won or lost in the fickle conditions around Rat Island. With four LBT Grebes entered, the race promised the best of class racing and the punters weren’t disappointed. Finishing only seconds apart, Grebes came in 1st, 2nd and 3rd. Two privateers, a Modified Miracle and a Whitehall Skiff gamely nominated their own handicaps but were unable to make ground on the Grebes. Recognising they were thoroughly outclassed, the devious Mouseketeers of the …
Posted Dec 14, 2017, 3:32 PM by Posts Editor
Swiftsure Regatta ResultsThere are bookies all over South East Asia hanging out for these. Thanks to Lorrie Harrison for supplying them. Swiftsure Time Trials: 1. The Could’ve Beens – 25 min 3 seconds 2. Ninka’s Mountain Rippers – 25 min 10 sec 3. Swiftsure 2 – 26 min 30 sec. Roger Harwood Single Rower Race: 1. Dave Nash 42 min 17 sec 2. Peter Heading 43 min 10 sec 3. John Young 44 min 40 sec 4. Will Hallinan 46 min 58 sec 5. Dave Budd 51 min 33 sec. Skiff races – Womens: 1. Castle Forbes Bay 8 min 32 sec 2. Huon 5-O 9 min 5 sec. Skiff Mixed Races: 1. L.B.T. 6 min 30 sec 2. Huon 5 …
Posted Dec 14, 2017, 12:17 PM by Posts Editor
LBT Christmas Party coming up Monday 18thThis evening Christmas Party, starting around 6pm, is a bring your own, something for yourself and something to share, so that the cooks can join the happy throng on the LBT lawn and in the shed. BBQ’s and usual Monday night paraphernalia will be available. If you want to do some decorating come early and have a go.
Posted Dec 13, 2017, 1:36 PM by Posts Editor
Tuesday Group newsGraham Wright writes: I was told that Betsy was built in a couple of weeks, but has taken a lot longer to restore. Under John Young’s guidance using traditional boat building methods she is now ready to go back in the river. The river end of the veranda is now clear and tidy for social events. On the southern side of the shed a lot of the timber has been cut and sorted leaving a tidier area. Work is continuing on ‘Flatty’ and ‘Gretchen’ which both will see completion in early 2018. Once Betsy is back in the river the next project to start will be the Flying 15 which is a very rare version, being carvel built. As …
Posted Dec 12, 2017, 11:15 AM by Posts Editor
Wot to do in the holidaysAnne Holst writes: This is a 29′ Huon Pine project that is looking for a new owner. Lovely shape. It is on the hard stand at Nubeena. For more info contact Russell on 0417 591 921. Pics from Anne
Posted Dec 14, 2017, 3:42 PM by Posts Editor
WBC (FWWA) December newsletterThe latest newsletter from our friends across the wall includes an invitation to their Christmas Party: https://goo.gl/y9yNzT
Posted Dec 10, 2017, 3:05 PM by Posts Editor
LBT committee meeting 13th DecemberThe agenda for this meeting is currently being compiled at https://goo.gl/Ynu3wk . If you want something to go in this agenda, or comment on any of the items already listed for discussion send correspondence to the secretary: sec@lbt.org.au
Posted Dec 10, 2017, 2:12 PM by Richard Forster
An orange Swiftsure RegattaThe new LBT shirts were on very much on display at the Regatta – they’re gonna see us coming. Congratulations to Lorrie Harrison and the team for organising a great event (not to mention the shirts). See selected pics from Zainab Clarke at https://goo.gl/oDKNKh. Thanks Zainab!
Posted Dec 10, 2017, 2:03 PM by Posts Editor
Pontoon progressWhilst our application to deploy pontoons wends its way tortuously through the bureaucracy your LBT Waterfront Subcommittee (the LWS) is beavering away behind the scenes. David Pittaway sketched up some plans for the installing the walkway, which have been converted to CAD by Ben Forster for ease of use. They were discussed with an engineer on site and we should be ready to roll once we get the all clear. Pics from Ben Forster
Posted Dec 9, 2017, 12:12 PM by Posts Editor
On the Water Program: a big thank youThe crews have rowed off into the sunset and the program has ended for another year. On behalf of the LBT committee and membership this column wishes to say thanks to all who helped to make it such a success. From getting oars made through to final cleanup there was a lot of time and effort expended, but it has certainly been worth it with very positive reports coming back from the schools. Students who were almost too scared to step aboard at the start of the program were confidently getting the boats organised, out of the shed, and moored up ready for expeditions by the end of it. Our record warm November didn’t do any harm. The farmers …
Posted Dec 7, 2017, 1:32 PM by Posts Editor
Spring Bay Community Boat Shed newsletterFor all the goings on at Spring Bay (Triabunna) see the attached: https://goo.gl/hBvUp2
Posted Dec 2, 2017, 11:19 PM by Posts Editor
Special Monday nights coming upIt’s a case of not only but also for next three Monday night dinners. December 4th: Adrian Dean will be telling us all about his schooner design. December 11th: Launch of the Little Book Library, and Welcome to Fleet for ‘Lady Dot. December 18th: Bring a plate Christmas Party.
Posted Dec 2, 2017, 11:19 PM by Posts Editor
Special Event Film Night at the Palais Friday 8th DecTeam Movies writes:’A Concerned Valley Resident (Hans) contacted Palais management and requested if he could screen the 5 star 2015 French documentary film ‘Tomorrow’. We all put our hands up to assist Hans as this is an important film that has emerged from a huge ground swell for change across Europe and the world. Synopsis:‘Tomorrow’ (Demain) TODAY, we sometimes feel powerless in front of the various crises of our times. TODAY, we know that answers lie in a wide mobilization of the human race. Over the course of a century, our dream of progress commonly called “the American Dream”, fundamentally changed the way we live and continues to inspire many developing countries. We are now aware of the …
Posted Dec 3, 2017, 8:44 PM by Posts Editor
More about Swiftsure Regatta (10th December)Lorrie Harrison has sent the attached detailed description (https://goo.gl/4FFcCT) of rowing events for the day, including the Swiftsure Race, The Roger Harwood Classic Clinker Dinghy Race, The Laura Golding Challenge, and the Skiff Race with the Le Mans Start.
Posted Dec 2, 2017, 11:21 PM by Posts Editor
Calling all sailors – join the Rat RaceMartin Riddle writes: “The hotly contested Rat Island Race for the coveted perpetual trophy is on again as part of the Swiftsure Regatta on Sunday 10 December – bring your own boat or sail one of the LBT’s fleet. The course will start off the LBT shed, then down to south Franklin to round Rat Island, leaving the island to starboard, and then back to cross the finishing line near the LBT shed. The published timetable is what the regatta coordinators hope will happen but it is a relaxed event, that is until the racing starts! The start will be sometime in the afternoon – if we need to use Grebes that are also doing the Roger Harwood rowing race we …
Posted Nov 30, 2017, 7:12 PM by Posts Editor
2018 Geelong Wooden Boat FestivalPaul Gunter writes“As most of you will all be aware the 2018 Geelong Wooden Boat Festival is conducting a larger OTB regatta after a successful trial run in 2016, We would love to see as many timber boats on the water or on display as possible, this includes Trailer sailors , Dinghy’s & Catamarans … Entries are now open so please visit our web site www.woodenboatfestivalgeelong.com.au ” The LBT sent a Skiff team to this festival last year and we can recommend it: see report at http://bit.ly/2580dCU
Posted Nov 30, 2017, 4:19 PM by Posts Editor
Little Boat Library launch Monday December 11Jane Johnson has organised a book exchange/library for us, to be housed in our old ‘rowing shell’ bookshelves. It will be launched at Monday dinner. For more details see attached from Jane: https://goo.gl/cnXf2w
Posted Nov 30, 2017, 2:46 PM by Posts Editor
Proposed Woodchip loading facility in Port Esperance BayMatt Wardell writes:‘You may have heard about the proposed woodchip loading facility in Port Esperance Bay. This massive development will have a significant impact on our Bay and tourism in the Far South. This proposal is very well progressed and has had no public consultation. Additionally this will go through Council at a time when we do not have any elected representatives. The community has organised a public meeting with the developer to ask further questions. We encourage all concerned Huon valley residents to come along and find out more. Please see link below https://m.facebook.com/story.php?story_fbid=1600516439987448&id=119938664711907. Meeting is at 6pm Wednesday 6th at Port Esperance sailing club. For more information …
Posted Nov 30, 2017, 2:34 PM by Posts Editor
History Group Christmas newsletterSee attached: https://goo.gl/66LH9r. Lots of interesting reading and pictures. Pic is from a talk about postage given by Harry Rettino, and is part of his collection.
Posted Nov 30, 2017, 2:25 PM by Posts Editor
Renovator’s DelightGraham Rankin writes: ‘Free to A Good Home, Project Boat/ Renovator’s Delight 20 foot “Elver” Canoe Yawl, designed by Steve Redmond Hull consists of hoop pine strip planking with plywood bottom and deck. Ply will need replacing as well as a small area of strip planking. That said, she is still well worth saving as the new owner will have a lovely looking pocket cruiser. Centreboard and rudder and all spars are made, the douglas fir spars would be around $1000 in material alone. I am keen to see this boat find a home with some one who is serious about finishing her. Ideally you should space to keep her undercover, she is dry and needs to stay that …
Posted Nov 28, 2017, 12:27 PM by Posts Editor
Two Lady Nelsons: Leg Irons, Maori Chiefs, Rum and MaggotsSounds like an interesting talk coming up on TUESDAY 5 December 2017 at the Royal Society Room at TMAG, Davey Street, Hobart.John Wadsley writes: ‘we are celebrating 30 years of the Lady Nelson replica, one of our favourite vessels. Mal Riley (co-skipper of Lady Nelson) will regale us with stories of the original Lady Nelson as well as the replica’s 30 year story. ‘See the attached flyer for details: https://goo.gl/5yPY6K
Posted Nov 26, 2017, 6:46 PM by Posts Editor
Movie at Palais Dec 3: The Country DoctorTeam Movies writes; ‘This Sunday we are screening the sensational 2016 French film, The Country Doctor (MÉDECIN DE CAMPAGNE). Written and directed by doctor-turned-film maker Thomas Lilti, The Country Doctor was a huge hit in France when released. The Country Doctor is rated Synopsis: Dr Jean-Pierre Werner (François Cluzet) is a kind, no-nonsense, firmly established country doctor, who works gruelling hours and whose role in the community often extends beyond simply overseeing the physical wellbeing of his patients. When he is diagnosed with an illness which demands he stop work, he is forced to take on a replacement.’ $5.00 Admission, Doors open 6.30pm, film starts at 7.15pm. Bar will be running with …
Posted Nov 26, 2017, 11:27 AM by Posts Editor
Only two weeks to Swiftsure Regatta (gulp!)Jilly Archer writes: ‘The Swiftsure Regatta has been a highlight of the summer season for the Living Boat Trust for 19 years and the provisional timetable for the day is available here: https://goo.gl/MJi9nLWe need some helpers for the day: the more people we have the easier it is to juggle. Please sign up using this form: https://goo.gl/YCcJ2K
Posted Nov 26, 2017, 5:55 PM by Posts Editor
Another project boatThis one is a bit different: an Iain Oughtred Wee Seal. See pics below. Contact is maryjeanwilson@bigpond.com More details from the owner at https://goo.gl/au5RWC
Posted Nov 25, 2017, 11:03 AM by Posts Editor
Tawe Nunnugah: the view from the droneParticipants on Tawe Nunnugah will recall that part of the fun was being buzzed by the drone, generally controlled by the safety RIB operator Saul Davidson. He has very generously given us a copy of his footage: view at https://goo.gl/dg6o4Y . Depending on your musical taste you will either want to have your speakers dialed up to 11, or toned down a bit. Pic from Saul
Posted Nov 24, 2017, 12:58 PM by Posts Editor
Murdo Macleod’s Tawe NunnugahRobbie Wightman reports that Murdo was one of the joint winners of the 2017 Scottish Rowing Association Cruising Log competition with ‘a description of a voyage in Tasmania. Great reading, and as you would expect fantastic photography’. See if you agree: read it at https://goo.gl/s2GsWs Pic from Murdo Macleod
Posted Nov 23, 2017, 4:08 AM by Posts Editor
Franklin Foreshore PlanAt last Thursday’s community meeting to consider the foreshore plan for the North Franklin Waterfront Richard Forster presented on behalf of the LBT. The overheads that supported that presentation can be viewed at https://goo.gl/TvYRBi
Posted Nov 23, 2017, 3:56 AM by Posts Editor
White caps on the HuonThe Thursday On the Water Program students made their way upstream into a steady north wind for lunch near the top of North Egg Island. There was the anticipation of a tail wind and a dip in the river to encourage everybody back into the boats after food had been consumed, but not a bit of it. A very fresh sea breeze came in ‘on the nose’ and had them battling for every metre gained, and when there were really lively squalls there was nothing for it but to head for the shore and hang on. Eventually most crews had to concede and accept a tow back, just in time for the bus.
Posted Nov 23, 2017, 2:58 AM by Posts Editor
Adrian Dean: special dinner guest December 4thFor those who are unaware, Adrian is a very well known wooden boat builder and designer who still works over in the Wooden Boat Centre. He has agreed to come along and talk at Monday dinner about one of his designs, the ‘Franklin Schooner’, for which he has built a 1:10 scale model. Pic from Adrian Dean
Posted Nov 22, 2017, 1:01 PM by Posts Editor
Last Monday DIY dinner coming upSummer has arrived, well at least for the time being, and the LBT long table has moved outside. This coming Monday bring something to chuck on the barby, ‘cos the cooks are taking their monthly break. Also bring something to keep the midges off your ankles unless you enjoy scratching.
Posted Nov 22, 2017, 12:47 PM by Posts Editor
Project BoatNick Saltmarsh writes: This restoration project is for sale with the owner looking for $2000 ONO – he needs it gone. A 28’ Huon Pine 116 year old Mersey River ferry. The boat currently in Longford on a cradle. Contact is nicksaltmarsh1@gmail.com or 0467 580 282.
Posted Nov 25, 2017, 11:04 AM by Posts Editor
Laura Golding MemorialOn Friday 17th November, a small flotilla of boats and a large shore party made their way to Copper Alley Bay. Songs were sung, flowers were thrown and tears were shed, and Laura was remembered.Thanks to Bob Hawkins for the pics, more of which can be viewed at https://goo.gl/UStuSu
Posted Nov 19, 2017, 4:46 PM by Posts Editor
LBT ‘use of assets’The committee asked Martin Riddle to develop an overall policy to help us manage our assets. Here are the first couple of paragraphs from the document he has written, which has been endorsed by the committee.‘The Living Boat Trust is a membership-based organisation, the assets of which (such as workshops machinery and tools, kitchen, boats, trailers etc.) have been acquired through the efforts of members and belong to the members collectively. Many of the assets of the LBT will deteriorate more quickly if not used regularly. The overall guiding principle for managing the use of LBT assets by the members is that use should be encouraged. If any decision, rule or fee-for-use has the effect of …
Posted Nov 19, 2017, 2:42 PM by Posts Editor
Testing Lady Dot’s rigPeter Laidlaw thought he ought to take advantage of the afternoon sea breeze on Sunday, and just for argument’s sake put Lady Dot’s lug rig in one of our Grebes – Absent Friends. Wasn’t quite perfect but went all right.
Posted Nov 18, 2017, 11:37 PM by Posts Editor
Electric boats on the HuonWe are used to having our own electric boat Nancy cruising quietly around Franklin, but the Zelecta which joined her for the steamboat rally on Sunday is an entirely different electric beast, a chris-craft replica powered by a great bank of batteries instead of a V8. We think this is the first time she has been down here since she was built in the Wooden Boat Centre. We are already plotting to lure her back. For more about Zelectra see https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rypwCDOCdZ0
Posted Nov 18, 2017, 11:00 PM by Posts Editor
Steam boat rally 2017Boats of all shapes and sizes joined the steamboats on the excursion from Franklin to Huonville on Sunday, and a great time was had by all. Thanks and congratulations to the Wooden Boat Guild (woodenboatguildtas.org.au )who organised the event. This is the third year in a row they have done it, and we are looking forward to 2018. A few selected pics below.
Posted Nov 19, 2017, 12:11 AM by Posts Editor
The Franklin SchoonerAt last night’s community meeting John Young revived the idea of building a schooner in Franklin. For those who are unaware, John has a lot of experience with this sort of project, having been a prime mover behind the construction of the ‘One and All‘ in Adelaide (see http://oneandallship.com.au/). Adrian Dean has drawn up plans, and a highlight last night was seeing the model he has built: see pics below. Pics from Adrian Dean
Posted Nov 16, 2017, 1:03 PM by Posts Editor
Franklin foreshore development plan endorsedLast night (Thursday) a community meeting organised by the Franklin Progress Association gave support to the latest version of the plan for the Franklin foreshore – see http://bit.ly/2mh0q4a. This meeting was attended by the commissioner (Adriana Taylor), the General Manager of Huon Valley Council (Emilio Reale) and politicians as well as a large number of Franklin residents, so hopefully it will spur some action.
Posted Nov 16, 2017, 12:40 PM by Posts Editor
Newsletter from the FWWA and Wooden Boat CentreRead the November newsletter at http://bit.ly/2iTgMjY. There is a nice article about the Cartela. Pic shows her arriving in Franklin, a day many of us remember.
Posted Nov 13, 2017, 11:54 PM by Posts Editor
Franklin History Group Newsletter, Nov 2017See attached: http://bit.ly/2zHFR9B . To go with the stories there are some great boaty pictures, of which the one below is only an example.
Posted Nov 13, 2017, 11:39 PM by Posts Editor
On the Water Program off to a flying startMike Dredge had the full attention of students as he explained how to keep ropes tidy at the start of the On the Water Program second session. But getting on the water was the thing, and the Grebes were soon headed for Cradoc through the channel between the Egg Islands. For more information about this program see http://bit.ly/2ztILhR . To participate (go on, you want to) put your name down for some days on the form at http://bit.ly/2iuG4rO .
Posted Nov 13, 2017, 1:03 PM by Posts Editor
Lady DotThe LBT is very grateful to Peter Jarman for donating this beautiful little Channel workboat. We look forward to getting her on the water and using her. For more pics and details see her information page: http://bit.ly/2iQ75mn Pics from Peter Jarman
Posted Nov 12, 2017, 6:01 PM by Posts Editor
Book a free trip on Nancy Nov 19Nancy will be participating in the Steamboat Rally on the Huon next Sunday, Franklin to Huonville return, starting 10am. All members can book a free ride on Nancy using the form at http://bit.ly/2yg5MG4 . Limited places: book early. For pictures and a description of a previous running of this event see http://bit.ly/2iU8ubm. Pic from Zainab ClarkPic from Endra O’May
Posted Nov 13, 2017, 9:34 PM by Posts Editor
Monty has a twin sister!John Young has been investigating getting our Montagu Whaler, affectionately numbered 536, onto the Historic Boats Register, and it turns out that good old 537 still survives and can be viewed aboard HMAS Castlemaine in Williamstown (Melbourne). See first pic below. The second pic shows the sternpost from our boat, and tells us that she was built in Brisbane, 7-8-53. According to the Castlemaine website 537 was built in Brisbane in August ’53. Pic from Peter Shimeld
Posted Nov 11, 2017, 1:57 PM by Posts Editor
Using NancyMartin Riddle writes: ‘It has been decided to make Nancy more readily available for use by LBT members at the cost of only $5 per person. This is consistent with the new policy on use of LBT assets and is designed to get Nancy out on the water more often. To take Nancy out there must be a person on board responsible for the vessel (the skipper) who has a current recreational motorboat license and has had the induction on Nancy’s operating procedures. Martin Riddle will be running inductions on Monday evenings from 5pm. To sign up for an induction please follow this link: http://bit.ly/2zuLtUv. To book Nancy go to http://bit.ly/2zxNdMM’
Posted Nov 9, 2017, 1:25 PM by Posts Editor
Communities getting together to remember LAURA GOLDINGJilly Archer writes: Laura connected with many people in the Huon Valley during the 8 years she lived among us. This is an open invitation to anyone who would like to come along and remember her with others from our communities. Friday 17th November at CYGNET-LYMINGTON-CYGNET; Bring some flowers from the garden to fling into the water at LYMINGTON; 10am Rowing skiffs will leave CYGNET Sailing Club for Copper Alley Bay (to book a place in a skiff, contact Carolyn Booker – 0427 430 476); 10.30am Landlubbers to meet at Copper Alley Bay, Nichols Rd off Queens St, LYMINGTON (contact Jilly Archer, 0423265789)); 11am All and sundry at CYGNET Sailing Club for chatting, singing, tea, coffee; BRING A …
Posted Nov 9, 2017, 12:16 PM by Posts Editor
Photographing the Sydney to Hobart Yacht RaceJohn Wadsley writes: ‘The Maritime Museum of Tasmania is proud to be hosting this exhibition of the work of Richard Bennett, which will be opened by Matt Allen, President of Australian Sailing and a past Commodore of CYCA, on Monday 20th November 2017 at 5.30pm. We very much hope that a representative of your fine organisation will be able to join us. Refreshments will be served during the evening. Please RSVP by return email or by telephoning the museum on 6234 1427 if you are able to attend. See the flyer for details: http://bit.ly/2zxkRlQ This is an invitation to the LBT rather than individuals. If you would like to represent us please contact the secretary …
Posted Nov 9, 2017, 2:42 PM by Posts Editor
Rowing and paddling at Dover, November 25th, 26thLorrie Harrison writes:‘If you like rowing then this is the weekend for you. Bring your boat or kayak and join us for a weekend of rowing around Port Esperance Bay. Saturday night is at the Port Esperance Yacht Club, dinner $20 and join in a jam session so bring your musical instruments. Please RSVP you intention to come by 19 November. See the flyer (http://bit.ly/2h7TCpu) email for more information: lorrieharrison@tpg.com.au ‘
Posted Nov 5, 2017, 5:22 PM by Posts Editor
LBT Committee Meeting Wed 8th NovemberThe LBT committee will be meeting this Wednesday 8th November: if members have matters that they want raised they should email the secretary: sec@lbt.org.au. The draft minutes from the first committee meeting of the 2017-18 LBT year can be found at http://bit.ly/2izzXPp, or accessed by going to the LBT website and choosing Resources => 2017-18 Minutes.
Posted Nov 5, 2017, 1:13 PM by Richard Forster
Shed WarmingPeter Laidlaw gave the speech, the pink ribbon was cut, and it was done: the new workshop was officially warmed. Of course that was only the culmination of a great LBT day, both on the water and off it. Pics from Zainab Clark below show some of the highlights.
Posted Nov 4, 2017, 12:35 AM by Posts Editor
Greg Guy’s knots Some time ago there was discussion about how to decorate the ‘cheek pieces’ on the Montagu Whaler, those discs at the front of the boat where a ship’s crest would normally be displayed. Friend of the LBT (and old Whaler man) Bernie Bruen suggested knots to be replaced each year: that way we end up with a nice little display collection. We thought that it would be great if Greg Guy could tie the initial set, and he did. On Tuesday we had a ceremony to install them with John Young doing the honors.And then Monty was off and sailing again. Pics from Zainab Clark
Posted Nov 2, 2017, 4:49 PM by Posts Editor
New awning for NancyAll sorts of solutions have been tried to cure Nancy’s leaking front window: this clip on awning from Caroline the sailmaker should at last do the job.
Posted Nov 1, 2017, 4:06 AM by Posts Editor
Classic trawler on the HuonWell, the model of one made by Paul Frost anyway. We particularly enjoyed the detail, the ship’s horn and the smoke (see second pic), and it goes well too.
Posted Nov 1, 2017, 4:13 AM by Posts Editor
Classic Movie ‘Quo Vado’, Palais, Sunday 5th NovTeam Movies writes: ‘This month’s classic movie is the 2016 Italian box office smash hit comedy, ’Quo Vado?’ translated ‘Where Am I going?’. A film about Italians’ obsession with securing a cushy job with maximum perks and minimal work has become the country’s most successful film ever, outclassing even Star Wars. ‘Where Am I Going?’ is rated M’ Trailer : http://www.palacefilms.com.au/whereamigoing Admission: $5, come by 7pm with a plate.
Posted Oct 31, 2017, 4:38 PM by Posts Editor
LBT at Bellerive seafarers festivalEndra, Hans and the team were so busy taking people out on the water in Billy and helping people learn seaperson skills on land that they only managed to take the couple of pics shown below. Pics from Endra O’May
Posted Oct 31, 2017, 3:14 PM by Posts Editor
HMAS HuonLisa Plohl (from Huon Council) writes: ‘the crew from HMAS Huon will be in the Huon Valley on Saturday 4 November. We will be hosting three events on Saturday. “Freedom of Entry “ Leaves the Cenotaph at 10.30am, proceed down Main Street, the challenge will take place outside the Huon RSL then proceed down the street. We would like to encourage ALL the community to come and view this event. Following the march, ALL the community are invited to the Huonville Town Hall to meet the crew. Light refreshments will be available. At 12.30pm there will be a Civic Reception for the HMAS Huon. Would you like to attend? We have a limited number spots available to the community …
Posted Oct 30, 2017, 3:23 AM by Posts Editor
Working Waterfront third birthdayThe Working Waterfront celebrated the third birthday of the purchase of the Wooden Boat Centre last weekend, which reminded John Young of an article he wrote in 2011 when things were very much up in the air. He writes: ‘The article touches on what might have happened to Franklin if the Krynens had not enabled Franklin Waterfront Association to purchase the Wooden Boat Centre. The Krynens are now facilitating a wonderful mix of community and commercial activity at the Evaporators, which will consolidate and support the sustainability of Franklin and its community.’ For those interested in a bit of perspective in how the Waterfront has come to be it’s a great read: see http://bit.ly/2z0XbYH
Posted Oct 30, 2017, 3:08 AM by Posts Editor
TSO Brass comes to Franklin, Thurs 9th NovBarb Dawson writes:‘Lots of brass but no polishingFor most classic boaties, brass means lots of work rubbing and polishing, but brass with a difference is coming to Franklin. The TSO Brass on Tour at the Palais Theatre on Thursday 9 November. The TSO announces that its celebrated brass section will be hitting the road in November for a tour of regional Tasmania with concerts in Franklin, Devonport and Stanley. Don’t miss this opportunity to hear the impact, dynamics and sheer musicality of this stunning ensemble perform a diverse program including works by Bach, Wagner, Grainger and Terrancini. TSO Managing Director Nicholas Heyward said, “The TSO loves to tour regional Tasmania. We have a long history of performing …
Posted Oct 28, 2017, 1:28 PM by Posts Editor
Oars ready for leatheringWunjo has painted the new oars, which will be leathered on Sunday morning. If you want to find out how come down and join us.
Posted Oct 27, 2017, 5:37 AM by Posts Editor
Billie is off to BelleriveThe Bellerive Seafarers Festival is on Sunday, and Billie is off to be part of the fun, taking new sailors out to try their rowing skills. If you want to join Hans, Endra and the team head down there: see http://bit.ly/2yVcguW
Posted Oct 27, 2017, 5:34 AM by Posts Editor
Monday dinner: not only but alsoThis coming Monday you get the opportunity to do it yourself (the normal end of month highlight for many) OR you can have your dinner cooked for you at the normal price IF you come by 5.30pm and help clean up the Shed for the Tuesday Shed Warming. How is that for an offer!?
Posted Oct 26, 2017, 4:54 PM by Posts Editor
Reminder: Shed Warming this coming Tuesday 31st OctAll members are encouraged to come along for a for a lunchtime BBQ to celebrate the completion of the workshop extension and renovations at the Shed. This has been a huge effort by those responsible, and this is our opportunity to thank them. The weather forecast is looking ok and it should be a great day. See flyer below for details: http://bit.ly/2yUVagP
Posted Oct 26, 2017, 4:43 PM by Posts Editor
Regattas on the HuonMAST Notice No.: M131-17; Title: Rowing Regattas – Huon River, Franklin; Valid From: 28/10/2017; Valid Until: 9/12/2017. Notice Content: Rowing Regattas will be held on the Huon River at Franklin on Saturday, 28 October and Sunday, 29 October, Saturday, 11 November and Sunday, 12 November and Saturday, 9 December. Mariners are advised the River will be restricted for other boating pursuits on Saturdays from 0800 to 1830 and on Sundays from 0800 to 1630. Boat owners are restricted from using the boat ramp at Franklin and entering the rowing restricted area during these times. The restricted area is the course and 500 metres either side of the course. Boat owners must follow directions of rowing officials …
Posted Oct 26, 2017, 4:25 PM by Posts Editor
Oar makingThe chips have been flying as David Pittaway has introduced us to the oar making trade down at the Shed. The stocks of good Grebe oars are low and there is still plenty of work to do, so come down and be part of it. Give the secretary a call on 04977 86572 to check on times.
Posted Oct 25, 2017, 2:05 PM by Posts Editor
‘Replica Viking boat sets sail’See the short video on the ABC: http://ab.co/2iA7DjN. This is presumably intended for embedding in a larger story.
Posted Oct 25, 2017, 1:52 PM by Posts Editor
Sailing MontyAfter a frustratingly calm early spring the winds for which Monty was made have finally arrived. If you can join John Young and the crew at noon at the pontoon give John a call on 0455 458008. Pic from Endra O’May
Posted Oct 19, 2017, 11:02 PM by Posts Editor
Oar making session next MondayNo, those are not oversize cricket bats lying across the saw horses, they are oar blanks waiting for us to shape them on Monday, starting 9am. Come down and be part of the fun.
Posted Oct 18, 2017, 4:30 PM by Posts Editor
Laura Golding LBT member Laura Golding has been reported missing. The small boat in which she left Lymington on Friday 13 October was found in the channel empty later that night and she has not been seen since. A large search has been under way to locate her, with many of her friends joining in. Laura has been part of the LBT community for many years. She joined in the building of “Imagine,” represented WoW at the first Skiffie Worlds in Ullapool, went to New Zealand for their Raid, was part of the ground crew team and also a rower on our Tawe Nunnugah and rowed regularly with Outside Chance on a Monday evening and the social row on a Friday morning …
Posted Oct 18, 2017, 4:25 PM by Posts Editor
Boat houses, shelters, noosts etcFriend of the LBT Bert Van Baar has sent in his photographic contribution to the ongoing conversation in this column – see below. Comes all the way from Holland.
Posted Oct 18, 2017, 4:48 PM by Posts Editor
Join the On the Water ProgramThe On the Water program for local schools is scheduled to start at the beginning of November, and the LBT members who are going to help run it are having their first meeting at the Shed on Monday (16th) at 4pm. It’s good fun, and the more who pitch in the better it is. Either come along or register your interest on the form below. See http://bit.ly/2yoBsZR for the program web page.
Posted Oct 15, 2017, 1:39 AM by Posts Editor
Newsletter from the Australian Wooden Boat FestivalSee the October edition at http://bit.ly/2yoCOUs . Includes a story by Kathy Hawkins about a boat delivery via the North West Passage. Some shortcut.
Posted Oct 14, 2017, 9:18 PM by Posts Editor
October Newsletter for WBC/FWWAAll the latest from the Wooden Boat Centre and the Waterfront Association – see attached http://bit.ly/2yoab9W . Includes a great item on the history of the Shipwrights Point Wooden Boat School from Ruth Young. Pic from Ruth Young
Posted Oct 14, 2017, 1:50 PM by Posts Editor
Before and after: 1995 – 2017The pic on the left below shows the north Franklin foreshore in 1995, the one on the right in 2017. Quite a contrast. Thanks to Bill Wright (via Ruth Young) for the earlier shot, and ‘Max’ for the 2017 one. The newspaper picture that follows, also taken in 1995, confirms the dreadful paucity of boats at that time. See http://bit.ly/2yoHmua for the newspaper article from which this picture was taken. The final picture shows a similar view taken today.
Posted Oct 15, 2017, 12:13 AM by Posts Editor
Sailing Monty SaturdayThat old sea dog John Young has been sniffing the air, and tells us that the winds will be fair tomorrow (Saturday). Join him and the rest of the crew of the Monty at the pontoon at high noon. Pic from Phil Meaney
Posted Oct 13, 2017, 12:08 AM by Posts Editor
Dutch noostsWe recently published David Pittaway’s take on how we could house our boats in small noosts along the foreshore (http://bit.ly/2xCkUdb). Celia Leverton has come back from a cruise of Dutch inland waters with some alternative ideas. We like them! See the pictures from Celia below.
Posted Oct 14, 2017, 12:02 AM by Posts Editor
The great Skiffy oar controversy – hung jury!The Scottish Coastal Rowing Association ‘have decided NOT to move further towards a standard system at this stage’. Learned counsel are currently moving the barrow loads of evidence presented from the court to a pyre on a remote loch to be burnt in a mighty conflagration at the winter solstice. For all the legal bickering and reasoning see http://bit.ly/2xC8d2c Thanks to our correspondent Jane Johnson for her up to the minute reporting.
Posted Oct 12, 2017, 2:51 PM by Posts Editor
Invitation to Shed warming Tuesday 31st OctoberCome along to thank Brett Doubleday and the Tuesday group for building the workshop extension and renovating the shed. This is a major milestone for the LBT which has already transformed our operations. See the details in the attached invitation (http://bit.ly/2xCf7EG).
Posted Oct 12, 2017, 2:01 PM by Posts Editor
Join the steam boat rally, November 19thThe annual steam boat rally from Franklin to Huonville and return has become a highlight of the calendar. There is a special opportunity for LBT members to participate: book now for a free berth on Nancy at http://bit.ly/2yg5MG4
Posted Oct 11, 2017, 1:17 PM by Posts Editor
Franklin History Group NewsletterSee the October edition attached: http://bit.ly/2yfKNTS It includes pictures, taken by Alan Cato, of the relaunch of the Admiral at Huonville after her restoration in 2009.
Posted Oct 11, 2017, 4:05 AM by Posts Editor
Kayak Platform at Mosquito Point (Ranelagh)This should make quite a good destination for trips upstream of Huonville, although apparently one has to be wary of snags. Full report from Andrea Partridge attached – see http://bit.ly/2ydy5F9
Posted Oct 10, 2017, 5:16 AM by Posts Editor
‘New’ cover for NancyNancy came with a beautiful ‘raincoat’ which covered her from bow to stern. Unfortunately this wasn’t particularly suitable for our long damp winters, and couldn’t be stretched over the various aerials and masts fitted to the rooftop. Caroline the sailmaker from Geeveston came on Tuesday to see if she could cut the cover down to something more appropriate and modest, and the answer was in the affirmative. We are looking forward to seeing what she comes up with.
Posted Oct 9, 2017, 9:22 PM by Posts Editor
The plover chicks are hatchedEvery year the plovers raise at least one youngster on the LBT ‘lawn’, despite dogs and pedestrians and cars and chicks which go wandering and whose only defense is to plonk themselves down and hope nobody notices. Pic from Bob Frost
Posted Oct 23, 2017, 1:30 PM by Posts Editor
First Aid Course in HuonvilleHeather Elso writes: ‘We’ve had a few requests to run a First Aid course here again! So, we are taking our lead from you and holding a Provide First Aid course at Huon LINC prior to the end of the year. We are taking names now – currently we have around 7 names and only need a few more to hold the class, so if you’re thinking about it, let us know and we’ll be in contact to confirm the exact dates and times. If you would like any further info please contact Heather Elson direct: Ph 6121 7011 heather.elson@education.tas.gov.au ‘ Flyer attached: http://bit.ly/2xvHZ1i
Posted Oct 9, 2017, 9:12 PM by Posts Editor
LBT Committee meeting this WednesdaySee the draft agenda at http://bit.ly/2y8SUBw . Comments and suggestions should be sent to sec@lbt.org.au
Posted Oct 8, 2017, 3:42 PM by Posts Editor
Reminder: Nancy Fanciers meeting Monday nightThere is a meeting to discuss all things ‘Nancy’ at the shed on Monday 9th October at 6pm. For a draft agenda see http://bit.ly/2xqR4IM. Minutes from the last meeting (April) can be found at http://bit.ly/2xqcyp5 Pic from Brian Marriott. Nancy beribboned for Huon Yacht Club Open Day – Brian Pain gives the salute
Posted Oct 7, 2017, 7:03 PM by Posts Editor
Huon Yacht Club Open DayThe head wind finally got too much for Monty whilst returning from Port Huon and she needed a helping hand from Nancy, but not before participating in a very successful Open Day. Some pics below. Pic from Brian Marriott
Posted Oct 8, 2017, 12:58 AM by Posts Editor
Aquaculture Stewardship community meetingSarah Lowe writes:‘SCS Global Services invites you to attend a community meeting to discuss the assessment audit for Huon Aquacultures Zuidpool Channel farm (base at Hideaway Bay) under Aquaculture Stewardship Council (ASC) Salmon Standard V1.1. The Dover meeting will be held from 5:30 – 7.00 pm on the 18th October at the Port Esperance Sailing Club, 71 Station Road, Dover 7117. Please confirm your intent to attend this meeting by 5:00 pm AEDT on the 13th October, 2017 by registering through Eventbrite https://hacasczuidpool.eventbrite.com . If you can’t make the meeting, but would like to provide comment then please send written submissions to slowe141@gmail.com . FLyer attached: http://bit.ly/2xlTGaZ’
Posted Oct 5, 2017, 10:11 PM by Posts Editor
Funnies at Frank’sDavid Moore writes:Funnies at Frank’s – Simon Palomares Support by Mick Davies & special guest – Thur, Oct 26th.Book now or miss out. https://www.trybooking.com/RZZN It will sell out!More details in the flyer: http://bit.ly/2xfNqBs
Posted Oct 3, 2017, 11:29 PM by Posts Editor
Come to Bellerive Seafarer’s Festival 29th OctoberFor several years the Living Boat Trust has had a happy involvement with this terrific family festival (http://bit.ly/2xeFEYy), and we want to do it all again. It’s hard for us nautical folk on the Huon to imagine that others don’t get an opportunity to mess around in boats, but amazingly enough it is the case, and we can provide that opportunity, in ‘Imagine‘. We take them out for a row, and they love it. If you could be part of the merry crew of helpers that would be greatly appreciated: enter your details through the form below. For more details on what’s involved see http://bit.ly/2xetbUC
Posted Oct 3, 2017, 10:56 PM by Posts Editor
Nancy’s anodes are workingFor those not in the know, sacrificial anodes are highly conductive bits of metal attached to boats to attract any stray electric currents away from other important metal components where they may do mischief. The sign that they have been doing their job is that they corrode. As the before and after shots below show, Nancy’s anodes, one on the rudder, one on the propeller shaft, have been hard at it. The newly installed anodes are the big shiny ones.
Posted Oct 3, 2017, 2:35 AM by Posts Editor
Notice to Mariners: Lippies PointIf you are headed down to Recherche Bay in the next month or so this is one to watch out for. Valid From: 9/10/2017 until 15/12/2017. Mariners are advised that mooring work will commence at Tassal’s Lippies Leasein the D’Entrecasteaux Channel, east of Lippies Point, south of Lomas Point on9 October. The lease markers will be moved to the following co-ordinates until15 December. Yellow lit special marks Fl 4 (0.5 on; 3.5 off) will be located at: ID Latitude Longitude 1 43˚ 23.281 147 ˚ 3.332; 2 43˚ 21.451 147 ˚ 4.436, 3 43˚ 21.692 147 ˚ 5.19, 4 43˚ 23.523 147 ˚ 4.086 …
Posted Oct 3, 2017, 12:52 AM by Posts Editor
Nancy comes up on the slipThe LBT is blessed with great support from sister organisations, one of which is the Huon Yacht Club. On Monday Brian Pain and crew took ‘Nancy’ down to Port Huon, where John and Pam Mann guided her onto the yacht club slip where she will have her annual cut and polish. She will stay at Port Huon for the open day on Saturday to which all LBT members and supporters are invited – see the flyer for details: http://bit.ly/2xbePnR
Posted Oct 3, 2017, 3:02 PM by Posts Editor
Swiftsure RegattaJilly Archer writes: ‘Once again it’s time to contemplate, train and organise for the Swiftsure Regatta. Named after our beautiful whaleboat and flagship ’Swiftsure’, this regatta has been running every year since?, who can tell us? Perhaps John and Ruth know. Scheduled for Saturday December 9th 2017 we are looking for expressions off interest to assist on the day. Helping out in no way restricts us from rowing in the events of the day which will be many and varied so come along to the LBT shed on Wednesday Oct 18th at 4pm and find out what is going on with regatta things.’Pic from Lynn Goodwin
Posted Oct 1, 2017, 4:36 AM by Posts Editor
Whale boat rowingJilly Archer writes: ‘Now that daylight saving is with us we want to start rowing Swiftsure and possibly Monty too if we have the numbers, so this coming Friday Oct 6th at 4pm is the date and time. This will be a mixed crew endeavour and we ask that any interested rowers contact Jilly Archer by 5.30pm on Thursday evening to express their interest. Jilly’s number: 0423265789.’
Posted Oct 1, 2017, 4:24 AM by Posts Editor
LBT reports and draft meeting minutesDraft minutes from September meeting of LBT Committee: http://bit.ly/2x61uNK. 2016-17 Treasurer’s Report (from Rod Macfarlan): http://bit.ly/2x5Qm3m. Draft minutes from Special General Meeting to set the number of people elected annually to the committee: http://bit.ly/2x5Lnjn. Draft minutes from 2016-17 Annual General Meeting: http://bit.ly/2x5A7Ub. A reminder that minutes of all important meetings can be found on the website: go to lbt.org.au, and then choose the pull down menu under Resources. Input to agendas for these meetings should be sent to the secretary (sec@lbt.org.au), put in the orange letter box at the Shed door, or should be presented directly to the committee members …
Posted Sep 30, 2017, 4:38 PM by Posts Editor
Mooring Works in the ChannelMAST advises:mooring works will be conducted at Marine Farming Lease MF221 East of Redcliffs in the D’Entrecasteaux Channel. These works will commence on Monday, 14 August. The markers will be moved to the following co-ordinates until 30 November 2017. 1 (NW): 43° 18.215 147° 05.051; 2 (NE): 43° 18.358 147° 05.453; 3 (SE): 43° 19.558 147° 04.630; 4 (SW): 43° 19.423 147° 04.224. Note that this is the lease between Surveyors Bay and Port Esperance (Dover).
Posted Sep 28, 2017, 1:49 PM by Posts Editor
Navigation Hazard, Bruny IslandMarine and Safety Tasmania. Notice No.: M117-17. Title: Navigation Hazard, Bruny Island. Valid From: 27/9/2017. Valid Until: 4/10/2017. Notice Content: Mariners are advised that a fishing boat has been abandoned and the vessel is in danger of sinking in the vicinity of West Cloudy Head, Bruny Island. Vessels should transit with care.
Posted Sep 26, 2017, 8:04 PM by Posts Editor
Come for a voyage on NancyNext Monday afternoon (2nd October) at 3pm Nancy will be going down to the slip at Port Huon for her annual cut and polish, weather permitting. There are a limited number of berths available to LBT members: email sec@lbt.org.au to book yours. Pic from Nell Tyson
Posted Sep 26, 2017, 2:42 PM by Posts Editor
Hunt for the Wilderpeople: Oct 1st at the PalaisTeam Movies writes: ‘This month’s film, Sunday, 1 October, we are ‘Crossing the Ditch’ to New Zealand and screening the 2016 poignant, funny and deeply affecting film, Hunt for the Wilderpeople. Starring Sam Neill (he still makes my pulse race) and talented young actor, Julian Dennison, who plays Ricky, in an amazing performance. Synopsis: A national manhunt is ordered for a rebellious kid and his foster uncle who go missing in the wild New Zealand bush. Rated PG (Mild themes and coarse language) Admission $5 Plus the Franklin Volunteer Fire Brigade will be presenting a short 10 minute DVD and handing out 60 complimentary DVD’s & booklets, on Fire Danger Ratings and the updated 2017 Bushfire Survival Plan. Our …
Posted Sep 24, 2017, 3:48 PM by Posts Editor
LBT Committee 2017-18At the AGM on Saturday night the 2016-17 committee was dissolved, and the following members were elected to form a new committee: President: Peter Laidlaw; Treasurer: Rod MacFarlan ; Secretary: Richard Forster; Members: Lorrie Harrison, Jilly Archer, David Pittaway, Brett Doubleday, Graham Rankin, Brian Marriott, Martin Riddle.
Posted Sep 24, 2017, 3:37 PM by Posts Editor
Nancy Fanciers Meeting, 9th OctoberSteve McCusker and the Tuesday group have kept Nancy in prime nick through the winter, and next week she will go on the slip (Tuesday 2nd October) for a final once over before the season kicks off with the Huon Yacht Club Open Day (Saturday 7th October) and Seniors’ week (Monday October 16th). As always the Nancy Fanciers welcome members who want to be involved, and there will be a meeting to discuss all things Nancy at the Shed, 6pm, October 9th.
Posted Sep 24, 2017, 1:51 PM by Posts Editor
Jervis Bay Wooden and Classic Boat FestivalMarguerite Porte writes: ‘Stan Brown, Organiser of the Jervis Bay Classic & Wooden Boat Festival has requested that the following information be circulated to members of the St Ayles Skiff Community. He says it would be a good opportunity to promote the St Ayles Skiff and explore the area for suitability for boating excursions.’ Submissions are now open for a three day festival celebrating wooden, classic and model boats that will be held on November 10-12 at the Jervis Bay Maritime Museum, Huskisson. This event will be an opportunity for the community to admire the beauty of timber vessels and the skills involved to craft them. The show will feature a display of handsome wooden and classic boats, including some …
Posted Sep 24, 2017, 3:58 PM by Posts Editor
Ghost Ships of the Arctic: the Erebus and TerrorRod MacFarlan points to this presentation, of particular interest to we Franklinites: ‘This presentation will showcase the search efforts lead by Parks Canada’s Underwater Archaeology Team following the discovery of the wrecks Sir John Franklin’s ships HMS Erebus and HMS Terror. 11th Oct 2017 6:00pm at the Stanley Burbury Theatre, University Centre, Sandy Bay campus’ For more details see http://bit.ly/2xxJIGt The Erebus and Terror in happier days in New Zealand (pic from Wikipedia)
Posted Sep 24, 2017, 3:59 PM by Posts Editor
Noost inspirationsThere were tantrums, and there was muttering of money changing hands and the involvement of Seth Blatter. The judges considered the grayling conservation zones, the crocodile nets to deal with the consequences of global warming and all manner of other red salmon, and in the end somebody won the Great Noost Building Competition at the AGM and quiz night. You scan the pics and decide for yourself. Pics from Graham Rankin
Posted Sep 24, 2017, 6:31 AM by Posts Editor
Wooden Boat Centre NewsPete’s tried the viking boat in the water and it floated – phew! For this and other news read the attached September newsletter: http://bit.ly/2xxh5ct
Posted Sep 24, 2017, 3:59 PM by Posts Editor
Ideas wanted for anniversary celebrationThose who enjoy a good knees up are already thinking about how to celebrate the LBT’s 20 birthday, which comes up next year, and this vexed issue was the subject of discussion at the AGM last night. Have your say by entering a suggestion in the form below (http://bit.ly/2xxg8kp): it will appear in the following table (http://bit.ly/2xxmY9M).
Posted Sep 24, 2017, 12:17 AM by Posts Editor
BBQ MondayIt’s the Monday dinner we all wait for each month, when the cooks take a break and we get a chance to show off our own culinary dexterity. Fortunately the run of warm weather is forecast to end, so we can also enjoy huddling around the traditional bonfire. Pic from wikipedia
Posted Sep 21, 2017, 6:48 PM by Posts Editor
Renewable Energy and you at the PalaisBarbara Dawson writes: ‘I thought that quite a few people from this area might be interested in coming along to the following session’ Renewable Energy and You 2-4pm Sunday 1 October – Palais Theatre, Franklin Renewable energy information sessions, hosted by the Tasmanian Greens, will feature talks by energy experts about how you can reduce your power bill and make a positive contribution to the environment. The experts will also be available to answer questions. This free event will feature the following talks:Rooftop Solar Jack Gilding, Tasmanian Renewable Energy Alliance How can rooftop solar work for you? Jack will take you through the best solar system size, tariff options and making the most of the feed-in tariff. Battery …
Posted Sep 21, 2017, 4:13 PM by Posts Editor
Deploying pontoonsSee the sketch plans below and the attached application to Parks (http://bit.ly/2wESC1n) for the latest iteration in the plans to get the pontoons deployed.
Posted Sep 19, 2017, 11:46 PM by Richard Forster
Dinghy TuesdayGraham Wright writes: ‘Rhonda K back in the water with lots of very positive comments over the last few weeks. Maybe we are getting the hang of this boat restoration thing! She was swapped with the ‘Betsy Walton’, much to John Young’s relief. The Betsy is long overdue for an overhaul’Pics from Graham
Posted Sep 19, 2017, 2:04 PM by Posts Editor
LBT AGM and Quiz night 23rd Sept: get involvedThe date for this event is fast approaching – next Saturday evening. See the flyer below for details. Quiz Master David Pittaway is seeking HELPERS for the evening, and PRIZES: speak to him directly or contact him at sisterdoolittle@gmail.comFind all documents (agendas etc) for the AGM at http://bit.ly/2whGJ19
Posted Sep 17, 2017, 4:34 AM by Posts Editor
Huon sustainable house toursLisa Plohl from Huon Council writes: ‘Are you interested in Sustainable Housing? Visit 5 sustainable houses around the Huon Valley in Cygnet, Lucaston and Ranelagh. Inspect first hand, houses that have been designed with energy efficiency in mind with passive solar, solar panels on an axis and straw bale construction. Meet the owners and have a discussion. Free Event but own transport required. RSVP’s are essential. RSVP email; zayedhuonenergyfuturesteam@education.tas.edu.au or message them on Facebook HERE ‘ Pic from https://sustainablehouseday.com
Posted Sep 13, 2017, 2:24 PM by Posts Editor
Nancy idea: roof deck rails?We suspect we would have difficulties getting this past MAST. For the full story see http://ab.co/2wZhaFI Pic from abc.net.au
Posted Sep 12, 2017, 2:15 PM by Posts Editor
St Ayles Skiff wins Great River RaceBarb Dawson and David Budd report: ‘Taking place on the Thames last weekend – through London, from Millwall to Richmond, this 21 mile race had over 300 boats taking part. Boats included Montagu whalers, Cornish pilot gigs and Thames skiffs – as well as St Ayles skiffs. Accurate handicapping means that diverse boats made it to the top 3. This years overall winner was……..drum roll…..a St Ayles skiff (named Felton Flyer) in a time of 2 hours 32 minutes. Second place a Hawaiian outrigger. Third place, an Essex skiff.’ Pic from allevents.in
Posted Sep 11, 2017, 5:18 AM by Posts Editor
There be dragonsPeter Laidlaw is close to a test launch of the new Viking boat over in the Wooden Boat Centre, and Francis is putting the finishing touches to the figurehead.
Posted Sep 10, 2017, 7:11 AM by Posts Editor
Nominations for the Living Boat Trust committeeFind a nomination form attached (http://bit.ly/2whHebx), print it out and dob yourself in. Alternatively, if due to modesty you can’t bring yourself to do this, dob in a mate. Do it now ‘cos time is running out. Paper nomination forms are at the shed.
Posted Sep 9, 2017, 4:49 PM by Posts Editor
Change of venue for AGM: now at the PalaisWe had planned to have the AGM at the Bowls Club, but they have suffered a broken hot water tank, which has soaked their carpets and which means the premises may not be available on the 23rd of September. We have booked the supper room at the Palais Theatre across the road as an alternative. Please come to the Palais, 3388 Huon Highway Franklin before 5.45pm on 23rd of September for this event, and for the subsequent Quiz Night. Find all documents for the AGM at http://bit.ly/2whGJ19
Posted Sep 9, 2017, 5:13 PM by Posts Editor
Mysteries of the Monty (rigging)An order to ‘brail the mainsail’ is not something you would hear too often (or ever) on a modern yacht, but was common enough and perfectly sensible on boats such as our Monty. Now that she has ‘ne of severalsmallropesattached to theleech of a sailfordrawingthesail in or up’ we can ‘gather in the sailwithbrails’. Thanks to Roger Sly for sorting us out. And thanks also to Roger for setting up extra blocks for the jib sheets, and for a new system for sheeting the mainsail. It should all be tested out by the Saturday rowing group that John Young has organised, and then by the cadets who will be …
Posted Sep 8, 2017, 3:26 PM by Posts Editor
Touring the auld Skiff countryHere is a second report from Deb and Martin Van Riddle on their ‘Skiff tour’ of Scotland.‘What was interesting was that many boats, both well used and currently being built, had the same oar system as the LBT skiff ‘Freyja’ – the thole pin and oar plate. First there was the organised fun in boats on Harris – here are some of the local boats (below from left (Arnol, Yackidoola and Blue Moon). .Then there was a community come and try rowing day on Lewis on a loch walking distance from our accommodation..This well-loved Stornoway skiff (below) was at their harbour and boat ramp. Then we went island hopping by ferry from Lewis and Harris, down to North Uist …
Posted Sep 5, 2017, 2:01 AM by Posts Editor
Schools on the Water ProgramOne of the many good things LBT has done over the years is to get the local kids out on the water learning about boats. Good for them and good for us, ‘cos it is a lot of fun. The schools are expressing enthusiasm for doing it all again, and looking at the checklist of what is needed is a requirement for a pool of LBT members who are able to help out from late October to the end of November. If you think you could be involved for a couple of half days (or more) during this period please submit your name through the form below (http://bit.ly/2x6kmAF), or email the secretary, sec@lbt.org.au.A …
Posted Sep 4, 2017, 9:47 PM by Posts Editor
LBT AGM and Quiz Night, 23rd SeptemberSee attached flyer for details. It was good last year, and the year before and … – so we aren’t changing anything much. The Special General Meeting at 5.45 is to approve capping the number of committee members – as the rules currently stand the number is unlimited. For more details see the SGM and AGM agendas and other supporting documents at http://bit.ly/2x2037m. During the AGM we will appoint a new committee: PLEASE CONSIDER NOMINATING, using the form at http://bit.ly/2x2037m, The LBT is in good health, and no poisoned chalices await new committee members: rather, goblets of ambrosia. Quiz Master David Pittaway is seeking HELPERS for the evening, and PRIZES: speak to him directly or …
Posted Sep 3, 2017, 6:03 AM by Posts Editor
New raincoat for the MontyHuon Council provided funding for a cover for the Montigu Whaler, and John from Franklin Canvas has done the deed. Looks very smart. Thanks to the Council, and to the Wooden Boat Centre for organising this.
Posted Sep 2, 2017, 5:17 PM by Posts Editor
Of cabes, humbly bands, rowlocks and thole pins Rob Ayliffe at Stray Dog has decided that the tholl pin, oar plate combination is the best solution for securing oars in the Skiffs, and can supply pins (and a mallet to help extract them!) with kits. We hope this isn’t the end to the controversy: we’ll have nothing to talk about if it is.
Posted Sep 2, 2017, 6:18 PM by Posts Editor
North Franklin boat harbour?Over the years there has been a lot of talk about making that nice sheltered corner by the evaporator sheds more boat friendly. The pics of moored dinghies below show how it can be done, despite the broken concrete currently littering the shore.
Posted Sep 1, 2017, 3:49 PM by Richard Forster
What’s in that shed?A visit to LBT member Ian Moncrieff in Adelaide revealed that he has almost completed a Derwent Skiff in his garage. He and Di plan to launch it on the Huon when they come down in summer.
Posted Sep 1, 2017, 3:31 PM by Richard Forster
AGM Season!It’s that time of year again. The Living Boat Trust Annual General Meeting will be at 6:00pm on 23 September, at the Franklin Bowls Club.It will be preceded by a short Special General Meeting at 5:45pm. The purpose of the SGM is to correct a long-standing issue in the constitution. Agendas for both meetings are available at http://bit.ly/2wmejqShttp://bit.ly/2wmBBNnTo make it all worthwhile, the meetings will be followed by a Quiz Night. Stay and enjoy the evening! $5 entry. Please bring a plate to share.
Posted Aug 23, 2017, 2:19 AM by Posts Editor
Funnies at Frank’s – Double HeadlinerThurs 21st of September – Damian Callinan & Rusty BertherDon’t dally, half the tickets sold already!Damian Callinan has visited Franklin several times and we love him. Damian is a multi award-winning stand-up comic, actor and writer. He is best known to TV audiences for his roles on Skithouse and Before The Game as well as regular guest appearances on shows such as Spicks and Specks and the Melbourne Comedy Festival Gala.Rusty Berther is best known for being half of The Scared Weird Little Guys or “Scaredies” for short (hey, no heightist jokes here please). They had an incredible career with over 4500 shows all over the world. Now he’s packing in shows all over the …
Posted Aug 23, 2017, 2:20 AM by Posts Editor
Warrnambool RegattaPatrick Groot from the Warrnambool St Ayles Skiff Community Rowing Club based at Flagstaff Hill Maritime Village writes…Dear all,Such was the success of the inaugural SW Regatta earlier this year, the Warrnambool City Council is getting the ball rolling for the Feb 24-25 2018 event which we hope will be bigger and better with hopefully even more teams in the St Ayles Skiff and the Whaleboat events. You may even wish to register for both events.Please don’t hesitate to get in touch if you have any queries.Regards, PatrickPatrick Groot (Pres’) Mob: 0400 359 681 Murray Kingsley (VP) Mob: 0408 724 640Tris Forster (Secretary) Mob: 0408 325 367Larry Abrahams (Treasurer) Mob …
Posted Aug 22, 2017, 1:11 AM by Posts Editor
Franklin Working Waterfront NewsletterOur neighbours across the way have sent us their latest newsletter hot off the press…Click here to download it http://bit.ly/2uWmlqy
Posted Aug 20, 2017, 9:32 PM by Posts Editor
Classic Movie Night at the PalaisDeb Combes sends the following invitation…Sunday Sept 3 we are screening the 2016 award winning, audience favourite, French film, Rosalie Blum.Doors open at 6.30pm, admission $5 and a bar will be running. Bring along a ‘French Inspired’ plate for supper to win a prize. For example, packet of ‘Monte Carlo Crème biscuits’.Synopsis: A lonely premature balding hairdresser meets a mysterious and lonely woman and becomes obsessed with learning all about her past. Quirky, intriguing, tantalising and full of surprises, it will leave you guessing and smiling right to the end.Rated M (Course language) Film is sub titles, so pack your glasses.
Posted Aug 20, 2017, 5:31 PM by Posts Editor
LBT Members Standing Out in the CrowdIt is time to be noticed! All the old blue LBTt-shirts have been sold. It’s time for a new brighter, sharper image. Here is our new LBT/WoW outfit, useful for allboating occasions, especially regattas, boat launches, shows and exhibitions,visits to other boating groups and general messing about in boats. The material is an easy care, no iron 60%cotton, 40% cool dry with ‘go faster’strips on the sleeves, night time reflectors on the body and a breathablesection under the armpit. It comes inshort sleeves and long sleeves. Shirts will have the LBT logo on top right andWoW members can sew on the WoW logo on the left sleeve. The cost …
Posted Aug 20, 2017, 3:26 PM by Posts Editor
News from the Australian Wooden Boat FestivalPaul Cullen from the AWBF has sent us a link to all the latest news… Greetings, AllWe hope you are keeping warm as our Tasmanian winter puts a crisp chill in the air, but there are still plenty of sails out there on the Derwent on the weekends. Tassie sailors are a hardy lot. Here’s the July AWBF newsletter with links to some great video and photography, some interesting results from our Visitor Survey and news of our friends on the other side of the Pacific, in Port Townsend, Washington. As ever, if you would like your story to reach our 4,000 subscribers, just drop us a line with a few good photos and we’ll do …
Posted Aug 17, 2017, 5:33 PM by Posts Editor
Turning GretchenGraham Wright keeps us updated about the ongoing work of the legendary Tuesday Group.Here is the latest… An interesting day in the shed today as Brett and the Thursday group, after 2 years and 2 weeks turned Gretchen over ready for prep and painting. Lots of ropes and straps with a few block and tackles and of course sheer genius from the crew. A few more weeks and Gretchen will be back in the water.
Posted Aug 17, 2017, 3:50 PM by Posts Editor
Vale Greg GuyMembers will be saddened to learn of the passing of Master Mariner Greg Guy. Greg will be remembered as a great supporter of all the good things we do here at the LBT, a man who always had a smile and a friendly “how are you going?” even when he wasn’t feeling the best himself. Many of us had the benefit of his boating wisdom and he was always willing to share his vast nautical knowledge with others. We are the better for having known him.Perhaps Greg will be best remembered for the incredible effort and enthusiasm he put in to help make the community ownership of the Wooden Boat Centre a reality through his involvement as a …
Posted Aug 15, 2017, 9:55 PM by Posts Editor
BYO MONDAY NIGHT DINNERThe last Monday of every month is BYO dinner at the Living Boat Trust so bring a plate of food to share. Try that new recipe you’ve been thinking about and bring it along or something to fling on the barbie, a nice loaf of bread and a bit of cheese always goes down well. The cost is a gold coin donation to cover the electricity & heating costs.
Posted Aug 11, 2017, 5:48 PM by Posts Editor
SEEKING BOAT TENDERS AND DINGHIESWOULD YOU LIKE TO DONATE A SMALL BOAT TO A GREAT CAUSE?Paul Cullen of the Australian Wooden Boat Festival writes…Many of you would know Rosemary Miller, former CEO of the Salamanca Arts Centre, where we have our office. Rosemary has always been a fantastic supporter of the AWBF, and gave us help with a generous lease and favourable references. Rosemary is still in the arts business, now working on freelance projects, including this one with the Burnie Art Gallery. Rosemary is looking for eight small boats (well, hulls, really) for an art project that will travel around the country. They do not have to be seaworthy. They will be transformed into works of art by Tasmanian artists.The …
Posted Aug 8, 2017, 11:15 PM by Posts Editor
New Navigation Markers (with pictures)Further to last weeks announcement about the new navigation markers in the Huon, here are some pics to help you find your way… (See here for location details) http://bit.ly/2vyxltG
Posted Aug 7, 2017, 6:55 PM by Posts Editor
Exhibition at the Maritime MuseumJohn Wadsley from the Maritime Museum of Tasmania writes…The MMT has some exciting news!! Over the last few weeks, we have been very, very busy. And now the efforts of our fine volunteers and staff have paid off with the opening last Friday of our next major exhibition – “THE TURNING TIDE, Australia’s War at Sea in 1942” in the Carnegie Gallery. This exhibition looks at Australia’s naval war in the Pacific and south-east Asia during the dark days of 1942 – a pivotal year during the Second World War. Not only does the exhibition deal with the Battle of the Coral Sea in May 1942 and other key naval engagements, it also deals with the war effort …
Posted Aug 7, 2017, 6:38 PM by Posts Editor
Franklin Progress Association AGMBec Enders, President of the Franklin Progress Association, has sent the following notice…Dear valued members,Please find attached the 2017 AGM Agenda for the Franklin Progress Association (FPA) to be held on 29 August. You will note that the FPA is proposing some changes to their Constitution. The marked up version of the Constitution is attached. http://bit.ly/2uuWaSA If possible it would be great if you could arrive a little earlier as we will be starting at the advertised time of 7pm. Position vacant – Secretary – If you think you may like to be on the FPA management committee in the 2017/18 year, and would like to know more about what is involved, then we would love …
Posted Aug 5, 2017, 4:26 PM by Posts Editor
New Navigation Aids in the HuonNotice No.: M101-17Title: Aids to Navigation – Huon RiverValid From: 4/8/2017Valid Until: PerpetualMariners are advised that there are five new aids to navigation established in position on the Huon River as follows: · Number 1 – lit port pile in position 43 degrees 05.927S, 147 00.493E. Light characteristic – Fl R 5s· Number 2 – lit starboard pile in position 43 degrees 06.344S, 147 00.197E. Light Characteristic – Fl G 5s· Number 3 – port pile in position 43 07.156S, 146 59.873E· Number 4 – starboard pile in position 43 07.366S, 146 59.912E· Number 5 – starboard pile in position 43 degrees 07.914S, 146 59.563E
Posted Aug 4, 2017, 5:06 PM by Posts Editor
Classic Movie Night at The PalaisThis month’s Sunday 6 August classic film is the 1964 cold war drama ‘Fail Safe’. Never heard of it? Neither had I until I did some digging and unearthed a lost treasure.This film is a 1964 cold war thriller based on the 1962 novel of the same name by Eugene Burdick and Harvey Wheeler. Directed by Sidney Lumet who gave us ‘Dog day Afternoon’ and ‘Serpico’, Fail Safe is one of Lumet’s early works and is noted for vigorous storytelling and social realism.It portrays a fictional account of a nuclear crisis. The film features performances by actors Henry Fonda, Walter Matthau and a very fresh faced Larry Hagman (aka JR Ewing from Dallas TV series) in …
Posted Aug 4, 2017, 5:00 PM by Posts Editor
‘Sioux’ For SaleRobert Ayliffe from StrayDog BoatWorks in South Australia sends the following… I have become the custodian of the legendary Port Huon based Athol Walter designed and built boat, ‘Sioux’. She is on the register of significant Tasmanian boats.‘Sioux’, launched in 1963 is currently located in South Australia, still in VERY good physical condition and ready to reward a new owner. Her hull and cabin sides really are Huon pine. The hull is carvel with what some call bruised seam construction, ie no caulking. Master craftsmanship.As a consequence of illness, the owners left the boat unattended on her mooring at Wirrina Cove Marina about 7 years ago, soon after having fitted a new mast, new roller furler and headsail …
Posted Aug 4, 2017, 4:42 PM by Posts Editor
A Thank You to Greg’s FriendsThe Wooden Boat Centre has forwarded us the following letter from Greg Guy’s sister Meg.I would like to thank all those kind people from the wooden boat builders who have so readily helped my brother Greg to move his belongings from his home to Lyn’s home and also some trips to the tip and helped him generally get his home ready for the new owner, at such short notice. My brother has been building wooden boats since he was old enough to hold one of Dad’s hammers and nails. So you see you as a group have been a very important and loved part of his life. I’m sure he would have loved to be …
Posted Aug 4, 2017, 4:12 PM by Posts Editor
Marine Electrics for BeginnersLaurence at Franklin Marine is offering a “fun, hands on workshop” to learn about marine electrics including some “tricks of the trade!”Click on this link to learn more…http://bit.ly/2wbsImR
Posted Aug 3, 2017, 4:11 PM by Posts Editor
Franklin design makes a splashBoat builder Bert van Baar sends this from The Netherlands…I have just finished a boatbuilding course at the Batavia Shipyard. We have been building the little lapstrake dinghy from Adrian Deane from the Wooden Boat Centre! I just love this little dinghy: this is the first time I really finish a dinghy in a course even with the floorboards screwed in. Thanks to Mike and Jonno who told me about the fine benefits of this boat.Joyce! Congratulations with your little boat! And Roland thanks for your support for Joyce getting the boat! Crew: Thanks for your wilfull coöperation!Launching of the boat next to the VOC ship Batavia!The ‘Wiskey Screw’ (last screw of the project)
Posted Jul 31, 2017, 7:30 PM by Posts Editor
Wire Splicing WorkshopHuon Yacht Club is hosting a second opportunity to learn the craft of wire splicing.See the flyer below for more information.
Posted Jul 28, 2017, 3:39 PM by Posts Editor
More Members on the MoveValeri Pain is travelling through the USA and sends us the following…Took some photos at the Maritime Museum in South Haven, Lake Michigan. The museum runs a boat bit like the Nancy, also fitted with an electric motor to give passengers a quieter ride. They still run a working boat shed on the museum site.
Posted Jul 23, 2017, 4:47 PM by Posts Editor
Lunchtime Talk at the Maritime MuseumJohn Wadsley, Maritime Heritage Coordinator of the Maritime Museum of Tasmania writes…Hi to all my MHOoTie Mateys, Hope you are all well and surviving the winter chills. But I think we would all agree we need more rain! Anyway, attached is the flyer for the next Monthly talk on Tuesday, August 1st . Please circulate widely through your membership and networks – and make the time to come along. Peter Higgs will be talking on his 6 month AustralianRegister of Historic Vessels (ARHV) project funded by the Australian National Maritime Museum. Not only are his findings very impressive, but he brings great knowledge to the matter of historic boat identification and restoration.And the Royal Society room is warm and …
Posted Jul 23, 2017, 5:51 PM by Posts Editor
Outer Hebrides Skiff Trail and beyondMartin and Deb have been skiffing in Scotland’s Outer Hebrides.Deb writes… A few LBT members are in Scotland, home of the skiff, and have seen a few. We were on the coast east of Edinburgh when we first started seeing skiffs. There were two skiffs in Dunbar which were on display for the towns’ Royal Life Boats’ Day – a fun and fundraising day with huge numbers of people. Eyemouth had two skiffs in a shed right in the heart of the harbour which is the centre of the regions’ fishing industry. One was built by their high school. The St. Abs skiff featured in the pictures and local stories at their museum.Then we went to the north …
Posted Jul 21, 2017, 6:41 PM by Posts Editor
Gretchen looking beaudifulGraham Wright has sent the following notes and pictures. Progress with Gretchen: antifoul is done, the brass strip is on the keel and the stainless steel rudder bracket is fitted. She is now ready to be turned over…. Any volunteers?Huon Rat finally back in the water with a rope bump strip attached under the gunwale. We will fit these to other boats as they come through the workshop.
Posted Jul 18, 2017, 9:02 PM by Posts Editor
LBT SubscriptionsReminders for members to pay their subscriptions went out at the end of last month and many have responded. Thank you! If you have not received a reminder please contact sec@lbt.org.au : we may not have a correct email address for you.
Posted Jul 18, 2017, 8:24 PM by Posts Editor
Planning and the Huon ValleyBec Enders writes: The Huon Valley Council is having a community-drop in session to shape a community engagement strategy. Attend the drop-in session on Tuesday 25 July 2017, 4pm to 7pm at the Huon Valley Council. Please see poster below (http://bit.ly/2vvWoKv) regarding a public meeting at the Huonville Town Hall about planning matters in your area. There will be a Q&A session.
Posted Jul 18, 2017, 9:34 PM by Posts Editor
AWBF July NewsletterSee the latest from the Australian Wooden Boat Festival at http://bit.ly/2vw3n65 . Lot’s of good boaty stuff, including a link to the recently released highlights video from the 2017 festival. See that at http://bit.ly/2vvTnd2
Posted Jul 17, 2017, 5:55 PM by Posts Editor
Invitation to lunch with Premier: Tuesday July 25thThe LBT has received the following invitation which we have confirmed is issued to all members. Note the RSVP details at bottom.On behalf of the Tasmanian Liberal Members for Franklin Will Hodgman, Jacquie Petrusma and Nic Street you are invited to a Light Luncheon with the Tasmanian State Cabinet Hosted by:Nic Street MP Liberal Member for Franklin From 12:30 pm to 1:30 pm onTuesday, 25 July at Huon Valley Council Chambers 40 Main Street Huonville, Tasmania PLEASE RSVP by 12 Noon, Friday 21 July to Diane Byrne – Electorate Officer for Nic Street MP Email: diane.byrne@dpac.tas.gov.au or Ph: (03) 6121 702
Posted Jul 17, 2017, 5:43 PM by Posts Editor
Project BoatBen has an old (yellow) motorboat moored at Cairns Bay which he wants to get rid of soon. Good for a project or for parts. If you are interested contact him on 0427 535049.
Posted Jul 17, 2017, 5:30 PM by Posts Editor
Opportunity knocksThe editorial staff for this column is on leave for six weeks. We’ve nailed ’em down to doing some work when they can, but there will be inevitable hiatuses. Here is a chance, a coveted chance, for an LBT member to fill in the breech, show us how it should be done, right past wrongs and generally make a name for themselves. Could applicants please send contact details to sec@lbt.org.au along with any other supporting documentation. Resumes of more than 10 pages will not be considered. Seriously, this work is not hugely onerous, and the technology, such as it is, can be mastered in a couple of hours. Pic from Polylerus
Posted Jul 16, 2017, 3:57 PM by Posts Editor
Yachting auditors courseRichard McMinn writes:Australian Sailing is conducting an Equipment Auditor training seminar on August 19 at the Derwent Sailing Squadron. This course is highly valuable for any clubs that have yacht competing in offshore races such as the Launceston to Hobart Yacht Racer as it allows the yachts to have their equipment checked and approved at their home club, rather than having to visit another club, or wait for someone from another club to be available. The course is free of charge and will run for approximately three hours from 9:00AM on Saturday August 19. If you have anyone in your club that may be interested, please pass on this information. Registrations are open here: http://www.yachtingaustralia.com …
Posted Jul 16, 2017, 3:50 AM by Posts Editor
Landscaping A standard topic of conversation at the LBT used to involve a comparison of the scars members had acquired by tripping over the logs that marked the edge of the parking area in the dark. No longer: Mick McGrath solved the problem for us by replacing the logs with a much more forgiving bank of dirt, which has been awaiting ‘beautification’. And that too has come to pass: the bank has been mulched and Franklin Landcare has planted it out with a selection of local low growing natives. Thank you Landcare!
Posted Jul 13, 2017, 3:52 PM by Posts Editor
Courses at Franklin MarineThere are two courses coming up at Franklin Marine: Marine Diesel Engines for Beginners (July 30th) and Shipwright Skills and Boat Preparation Workshop (August 20th). Many LBT members have attended these courses in the past and reports have been universally good. For more details and booking go to franklinmarine.com.au/training/
Posted Jul 10, 2017, 5:26 PM by Richard Forster
Geelong Skiff build in the newsNice report on the ABC. See attached: http://bit.ly/2v58Nol . Looks like they have at least 2 boats under construction already. Ambitious! The carpentry translations on the whiteboard (into Syriac?) reminded us of the Persian rowing orders we posted for our friends from Adelaide for the 2015 Skiff Regatta: http://bit.ly/2v51ehe Pic from the ABC
Posted Jul 10, 2017, 3:10 PM by Richard Forster
July Franklin History Group NewsletterSee attached: http://bit.ly/2u2UR0Y . Includes an item about the Price’s Creek hydro electricity generator, and a reminder to members to pay their dues. (Picture of power plant courtesy of Rob Linnell)
Posted Jul 9, 2017, 9:45 PM by Posts Editor
What boat is that?For those who are wondering about the vintage yacht on the Franklin Marine mooring upstream of the Wooden Boat Centre wharf, she is Aotea. And she certainly is vintage: a William Fife design built around 1907. For many years she was Noel Doepel’s boat, but she was recently purchased by LBT member Annie Venables, who has done quite a lot of work on her. Still goes ok: Annie recently skippered her to victory in the classic boat race at Port Esperance Regatta. Pic from Franklinmarineau (Franklin Marine)
Posted Jul 9, 2017, 9:33 PM by Posts Editor
Tuesday Group reportGraham Wright sent the following comments to go with his pictures below. ‘It was busy at the shed on Tuesday, now the extension and toilets are finished it’s back to boats again. Huon Rat is finished in it’s new colours, the Atlantic Blue was left overs from the Monty and will be seen on other boats in the future. John Young is busy on his dinghy with some TLC. Rhonda K is next for some maintenance as we noticed an increasing amount of river water building up inside. The bung casing was loose and the silicon seal had hardened also some small cracks in the hull and some ribs need attention. John Young has been very helpful with …
Posted Jul 5, 2017, 2:59 AM by Posts Editor
Wharf dedicationLast Sunday the Wooden Boat Centre hosted an afternoon tea to thank Greg Guy for all the work he has done for the waterfront. Ceremonies culimated with the unveiling of a plaque on ‘Greg’s’ wharf.
Posted Jul 5, 2017, 2:08 AM by Posts Editor
Viking BoatPeter Laidlaw is obviously having problems motivating the workforce over at the Wooden Boat Centre.
Posted Jul 5, 2017, 2:00 AM by Posts Editor
Emergency working bee for Greg Guy Thurs 6th JulyGreg has to clear out his house earlier than anticipated. If you could come along to 149 Lloyds Rd Franklin tomorrow (Thursday) morning around 10am with a ute/trailer and the expectation of taking things away to the tip or Lynn Goodwin’s place that would be great. Lloyds Rd runs off Jackson’s Rd, which meets the highway about 2 km south of Franklin (see map below: http://bit.ly/2uIiHMe))
Posted Jul 5, 2017, 1:57 AM by Posts Editor
Wire splicing workshop July 15thFor those who want to have a crack at fixing their standing rigging Stuart Mears is conducting a workshop at Port Huon Yacht Club. Limited places. See attached flyer for details: http://bit.ly/2uHWEW7 . The RSVP phone numbers are 0417 027 643 and 0447 642 674.
Posted Jul 4, 2017, 7:44 PM by Posts Editor
Want to get out on the Egg Islands?Here is your chance: the Tas Land Conservancy is having a three day working bee (weeding) out on the Islands starting Wednesday 12th July. Contact Denna Kingdom if you want to be involved: dkingdom@tasland.org.au . Pic by Matthew Newton
Posted Jul 3, 2017, 7:42 PM by Posts Editor
Franklin Marine Instagram GalleryThe drone shot shown below was taken in mid June by ‘Max’. It shows the recently floated new pontoon, but the decking frame which has since been constructed is missing. How busy things have become: boats triple banked off the end of the Marina. This pic reminded us that Laurence from the chandlery keeps a great (and up-to-date) collection of photographs of the waterfront at https://www.instagram.com/franklinmarineau/ .
Posted Jul 9, 2017, 5:01 PM by Posts Editor
Gretchen in her glory daysThose who are only familiar with ‘Gretchen’ as an upturned hull in the shed (second pic below) may be reassured by the first pic that when she is actually a boat that floats, and a pretty one at that. Graham Wright found this snap of her (and the Huon Rat and Swiftsure) taken at least a dozen years ago. Progress is being made and we hope to begin painting Gretchen preparatory to relaunching her soon.
Posted Jul 2, 2017, 5:09 PM by Posts Editor
New website for FranklinBec Enders from the Progress Association has created a website to highlight the attractions of the town: visit it at https://www.franklintasmania.com.au/
Posted Jul 2, 2017, 5:47 AM by Posts Editor
Friends of the LBT at large columnBert van Baar was here for summer supervising the building of the BM16M2 Dutch sailing dinghy for the Festival, and made many friends in the process. He is back home now in the Netherlands, and writes: ‘Here we have summer, the kind you showed us in Franklin. Nice weather combined with a shower now and then. At the College we are setting up for the expo, the exposition of all the new exam projects from this year, also the beautiful boat of Rens and Jeroen.Next week I will send you some pictures of the boats. We already prepare for the new class of boat builders for 2017-2019: 21 students next year for newcomers and 18 graduates that year …
Posted Jul 1, 2017, 5:01 PM by Posts Editor
Franklin, where the night life never stopsLooks like a good night on July 7th at Frank’s coming up. See attached flyer: http://bit.ly/2trNr6U
Posted Jun 29, 2017, 5:21 PM by Posts Editor
‘A boat in the family’The Off Center Harbour Crew. who make fabulous videos. have featured a boat from ‘our’ Channel in one of their latest productions. Catch it at http://bit.ly/2uhJSh3 . There are also previews for a whole collection from the Wooden Boat Festival at http://www.offcenterharbor.com/category/on-the-water/tasmania/ . There are some very familiar faces: Dave Golding’s dogs draw the photographers like flies, and Bert Van Baar puts in an appearance.
Posted Jun 28, 2017, 4:58 AM by Posts Editor
Latest from the Wooden Boat FestivalWe opened up an item in the Wooden Boat Festival newletter, and there was our ‘Rowan’, looking a bit bashful, in the midst of a photo shoot. For this follow up story on the Dutchies and much more see http://bit.ly/2ucRVeU
Posted Jun 28, 2017, 4:35 AM by Posts Editor
Found adrift – sit-on-top kayakA small sit on top kayak was found on Monday, drifting down the river by Egg Island. May have blown off a boat or been washed away by high tides. Ring David Budd to reclaim 62663571
Posted Jun 26, 2017, 4:55 PM by Posts Editor
Oceans and climate change lecturesHans Sipsma alerts us to this opportunity: ‘Winter Series: The Future of the World’s Oceans – free entry, all welcome – beginning @ 7.30 pm Wednesday July 5, Stanley Burbury Theatre, UTAS Sandy Bay’ . Organised by the Royal Society of Tasmania, and with an impressive list of speakers. See https://rst.org.au/winter-series-2017/ for details. Pic from Jon Sullivan
Posted Jun 26, 2017, 2:17 PM by Posts Editor
June Newsletter from the Wooden Boat CentreSee attached (http://bit.ly/2t5hMIt). There is a nice article about building skin covered kayaks, and a reminder that those of us who are members of the Working Waterfront Association should pay our dues by July 1st.
Posted Jun 25, 2017, 2:42 AM by Posts Editor
Grate work DennisWhen there is a job to be done around the LBT we are blessed with all sorts of talented people to help out. The wooden gratings on the Montagu whaler were falling to bits when she arrived, but Dennis Muscovich has solved the problem beautifully.
Posted Jun 24, 2017, 8:04 PM by Richard Forster
Skiff armada planned for GeelongMEDIA RELEASE – 22 June 2017 GEELONG REFUGEES RELAUNCHING LIVES BY BUILDING BOATS ‘Corio Bay Communities – Skiff Rowers & Raiders today announced their teaming with Diversitat, the Royal Geelong Yacht Club and Deakin University to support Geelong’s refugee and migrant communities and social support groups in building ten St Ayles Skiff coastal rowing boats. The first two boats are under way, being built by Diversitat’s Iraqi, Iranian and Slovenian communities teamed with the ‘Lifeboat Group’ which supports men and women who’ve suffered church-related sexual abuse as children.’ For the full story see attached: http://bit.ly/2tVbMyY
Posted Jun 22, 2017, 10:54 PM by Posts Editor
Midwinter at the LBT: Monday 26thThis year’s celebration is on Monday evening (yes we know it’s different in other places), and we have chosen to highlight the culinary imagination of our members. Meaning: bring your own for the barbie, something to share with others, and $5 for the LBT pot. A match will be applied to the pyre around 5.45pm. Pic from Wikimedia Commons
Posted Jun 22, 2017, 4:11 PM by Posts Editor
MMT Monthly Talk – Tuesday 4 JulyFor those who like to get down and dirty with their maritime history John Wadsley writes: ‘This time we have a local historian presenting on the Shag Bay fertilizer factory and its operations, including the devastating explosion whichshattered the bonemill in 1915, resulting in the deaths of two of the site workers – a father and a son. In this presentation, Maria Grist will explore some of the history of the two companies who operated in Shag Bay, as well as the events leading up to and surrounding the explosion. There will also be included some references to the vessels which were used to service the plant. Please find attached our flyer (http://bit.ly/2tUrCtR) for the next MMT …
Posted Jun 22, 2017, 6:05 PM by Posts Editor
The Pontoon Gang are at it againDavid Pittaway and his merry people have made a big start on pontoon 2 (P2), with P1 as a very handy utility platform. Come down and join in the fun next Thursday morning.
Posted Jun 22, 2017, 12:33 AM by Posts Editor
Monday Monty quizMonday diners will be expected to label an unannotated version of the accompanying diagram before they get their desserts.Pic from Admiralty Manual of Seamanship supplied by Roger Sly
Posted Jun 21, 2017, 2:49 PM by Posts Editor
‘The Big Heat’ at the Palais, Sunday 2nd JulyDeb Combes writes: ‘I have searched the vault, and found this famous 1953 gangster film ‘The Big Heat’. Directed by Fritz Lang and stars Glen Ford as Dave Bannion in a stellar performance. Synopsis: Unrelentingly brutal crime drama centers on a street-toughened detective Dave Bannion (Glen Ford) who takes on a politically powerful crime syndicate after his wife is accidentally killed by the gangsters who have been assigned to murder him. The Big Heat is rated PG.’ Sunday 2 July upstairs at the Franklin Palais. Doors open 6.30pm, film starts when someone flicks the lights. After 7.15pm but before 7.30pm. Yes, simple but it still works a treat. Admission: $5 (I promise you will not be …
Posted Jun 18, 2017, 4:01 PM by Posts Editor
Cadets in the MontyOur Montagu Whaler spent most of her life as a training vessel for cadets learning seamanship, and it was great to see her again being used for this purpose on Saturday morning when Roger Sly took out a group of current day cadets.
Posted Jun 19, 2017, 3:26 PM by Posts Editor
A Viking ship needs a dragon (or two)Over at the Wooden Boat Centre the strakes are steadily being added to the frame of the (petite) Viking boat currently under construction, and under the chisel of Francis the ornamentation is emerging from raw blocks of wood.
Posted Jun 15, 2017, 8:24 PM by Richard Forster
Funding Skiff EventsWord from St Ayles Skiff Community Rowing Association of Australia (sascraa.org): ‘”Getting enough skiffs together for a national event is always going to be a challenge in Australia”, says Patrick Groot, President of the St Ayles Skiff Coastal Rowing Association of Australia, “because it’s a big place and the St Ayles skiff community are widely dispersed”. To help overcome this SASCRAA has established a fund to help with the cost of transporting skiffs to national events. The fund was kicked off by the tawe nunnugah expedition tn17 organised by the Living Boat Trust in Tasmania in February 2017. If you are part of the growing skiff community in Australia please consider this fund if you are organising an …
Posted Jun 15, 2017, 8:00 PM by Richard Forster
Flare demonstration nightWhen: Wednesday, 21 June 2017, 6.00pm – 7.30pm. Where: Port Cygnet Sailing Club, Lymington Road, Cygnet. See the attached flier for details: http://bit.ly/2rjUoTR. MAST are organising this evening, and if it’s anything like previous ones it will be good. Pic from Glynn Shevels
Posted Jun 15, 2017, 4:59 AM by Posts Editor
Sunday July 2nd 3pm: an afternoon tea for Greg GuyAnne Holst writes: ‘We at the Franklin Wooden Boat Centre would like to invite you to an afternoon tea in recognition of Greg Guy’s contribution to Franklin’s water front community. To be held on the wharf or in the shed depending on the weather. Bring a cake and or a good yarn to share. No RSVP required just come along and share our community’s friendship.’
Posted Jun 15, 2017, 4:36 AM by Posts Editor
Summer dreamin’Those of us who aren’t Facebook people (and are thus hopelessly out of date) aren’t necessarily aware of Alex Blackburn’s video of tawe nunnugah 2017 (and the odd pub singalong). Which is a good thing, because now that we are aware it is doubly enjoyable In the depths of winter. See it at https://youtu.be/_ZcPRSnZ-Q8 .
Posted Jun 14, 2017, 3:33 PM by Posts Editor
Bosun needs a new homeGreg Guy writes: ‘I was wondering if you might spread the word for me that I am seeking a good and loving environment for a good and loving dog. I.E. Bosun.He is 10 yrs old now, in good health, loves kids or anybody who will throw a stick or ball for him to retrieve and does not have a mean bone in his body.He comes registered and desexed and accompanied with his favorite ball and throwing stick.Thanking you in anticipation.’ Greg’s email contact is deepbayboats@bigpond.com
Posted Jun 14, 2017, 5:56 AM by Posts Editor
tawe nunnugah: the long story, from Murdo McLeodMurdo is a photographer and journalist from the UK who came with us on the Raid, rowing in a Skiff crew. He has written a beautifully illustrated article which can be found at https://terrarowing.tumblr.com/post/161421734858/tawe-nunnugah-a-rowing-voyage
Posted Jun 13, 2017, 3:40 PM by Posts Editor
Wanted: wooden dinghyAnnie McComb writes: ‘ I have recently bought a little 26′ Huon Pine motorsailer and would like to buy a small clinker built rowing boat to use as a tender. I wonder if you could put it out to the members if anyone would have one they would like to sell?I have in mind something like Di and Ian built for “Pied Piper”.’ Annie’s email address is annie.epsilon@icloud.com
Posted Jun 11, 2017, 3:59 PM by Posts Editor
20 years worth of paperworkSoutherly Dolling has been combing through the LBT ‘records’, discarding the junk mail and the receipts from 1999 and retaining the original planning for the shed and tawe nunnugah. There are a bunch of photos in a box on the Shed table: see if you can help identify any of them.
Posted Jun 11, 2017, 3:34 PM by Posts Editor
HawsersMartin Riddle writes: ‘The LBT recently acquired several heavy duty ship’s hawsers which the Krynens are kindly storing for us in the Evaporators. The mooring ropes have many potential uses – as well as their obvious use for towing or securing vessels and pontoons they could be used as rubbing strips around pontoons or for turning into fenders. They are available for use by the LBT or any organisation with objectives consistent with those of the LBT. If you have a need for some very heavy rope, contact the LBT Committee through the Secretary at sec@lbt.org.au’
Posted Jun 10, 2017, 3:33 AM by Posts Editor
LBT membership renewalsLBT annual memberships lapse at the end of June and renewal notices will be sent out shortly. Payment details will be included in these notices: they remain the same as for previous years:$40 individual$70 family$125 corporateBank BSB 633-000 AC 149496275You can also pay for all your boating activities up front: the $100 ‘gold card’. Of course if you AREN’T a member now is a good time to join. See http://bit.ly/1KXtSmp for the application form and payment instructions.2016-2017 has been a special year for the LBT: a great Tawe Nunnugah, an equally successful Skiff Regatta, the completion of the workshop extension and other achievements too numerous to mention. We …
Posted Jun 10, 2017, 3:24 AM by Posts Editor
Night at the flicksYou can have one on Friday 23rd June at 6.30 pm, Huonville Town Hall, when there will be a free screening of ‘Constance on the Edge’, an acclaimed film about a refugee family who settled in the rural NSW town of Wagga Wagga. Light refreshments provided. Thanks to Zainab Clark for the details.
Posted Jun 8, 2017, 3:45 PM by Posts Editor
FloatmoCelia Leverton point out that for those opposed to the mooted expansion of the salmon industry on the east coast there is a ‘flotilla’ day planned for June 18th. Read all about it at http://www.et.org.au/floatmo_ev
Posted Jun 8, 2017, 5:12 PM by Posts Editor
Lake Macquarie SkiffLBT member Ronda Longuet has moved north to balmier climes at Lake Macquarie near Newcastle, and has sent the accompanying photos just to rub it in as we shiver through the frosty mornings. Once the the St Ayles Skiff pictured is finished we should expect invitations to the launch so we can join her and thaw out.
Posted Jun 7, 2017, 6:17 AM by Posts Editor
Mosquito PointWe are excited by developments at Franklin, but as Barb Dawson points out: ‘There are other new jetties being built on the Huon – for this one, construction has just started at Mosquito Point, Ranelagh. The impetus for this came from local kayakers but there is plenty of water for skiffs and whaleboats to use it. One of the few places above Huonville where there is road access to the river.’ Pic from Andrea Partridge
Posted Jun 7, 2017, 6:01 AM by Posts Editor
First Aid Course June 17thAnne Benjamin from Huon Yacht Club writes: The Huon Yacht Club is providing a First Aid Course run by St John Ambulance on Saturday 17 June. All members and friends are invited to enrol in this cousre which will be held at the Clubhouse from 9am to 5pm. It is a one day course with pre-work required either online or it can be posted to you. The cost of this course is $155 and you will receive a nationally recognised statement of attainment. Please contact the me if you are interested in attending this course so that I can send you out the all the course materials: email secretary@huonyachtclub.org We have spoken to Anne and this invitation …
Posted Jun 5, 2017, 11:25 PM by Posts Editor
Controversial installation sculpture IS on the waterOn Monday evening pontoon two splashed her way through the reeds and onto the river under the impetus of the Krynens’ forklift and sundry levers, the scene being lit by the headlights of helpful cars. This had been preceded by an afternoon spent attaching the newly acquired floats to the steel frame, amidst much huffing and puffing and bad language directed at misaligned bolt holes. David Pittaway will be organising the construction of the new wooden deck for this pontoon over the next couple of months. Come and join in the fun! Pics from Nell Tyson
Posted Jun 7, 2017, 6:49 AM by Posts Editor
Wanted: mail tubes and storage foliosThere has been a major ‘autumn cleanup’ in the office with new shelves installed (thanks Tuesday Group!) and David Pittaway and Southerly Dolling combing through old paperwork to extract the gems from the dross. Southerly writes:‘Can you tell the members that we need about 15-20 mailing tubes. (I picked up 3 yesterday from the tip shop, & they will hold more when they come in). The larger the better, for plans, posters etc. We also need A3 x2 storage folio’s, for plans/charts/posters that can’t be rolled. Also you need to put silver fish deterrents in the office- paper work has been chewed a bit. Another thought for the committee is to consider is sending many …
Posted Jun 1, 2017, 7:57 PM by Posts Editor
Visit from Cruising Yacht Club Sunday June 11thThe Cruising Yacht Club have been visiting annually for a number of years now. It’s always a good occasion with the highlight being a dinner at the LBT. This time around a special request was for a musical evening, so Steve and Marjorie Gadd and Tiffany and Dave will be providing the entertainment. See the details attached (http://bit.ly/2rSR0CH) and contact Kate if you’d like to attend.
Posted May 30, 2017, 6:02 PM by Posts Editor
Playground boat wantedMt Stuart Primary School write that they are looking for a dinghy suitable for a playground. Contact Bec Owens on 0439 623 194 if you think you can help.
Posted May 30, 2017, 5:52 PM by Posts Editor
Boatyard clearance sale at GoodwoodRod Macfarlan writes: ‘This mob are going out of business via a garage sale. Most of the good stuff has gone, but there is still a lot left if you can find it. Easy to see why they are going out of business. Maybe the LBT or some LBT members have an interest’.See Gumtree for all the details: http://bit.ly/2qt4ykr
Posted May 28, 2017, 4:38 PM by Posts Editor
Lots of lovely white paintIt mightn’t look like much, but the reason that the equal access toilet can be painted is because it is nearly finished, with construction completed and plumbing installed. Congratulations to Brett and the Tuesday group who have steadily seen the entire extension project through to a successful conclusion.
Posted May 28, 2017, 8:10 AM by Posts Editor
Reminder: DIY Monday dinnerThis Monday night (29th May) the cooks are taking a break. If you are coming to dinner bring along something for you (to throw on the barbie), and something to share, plus $5 to help keep the shed running. Pic from vxla
Posted May 28, 2017, 7:45 AM by Posts Editor
The ‘Twin Peaks’ trophyPeter and Dennis have been getting the trophy for the Hope Island rowing race ‘just right’. It features a half model of a St Ayles Skiff mounted on a Huon Pine ‘landscape’, with Adamson’s (twin) Peak looming in the background. The race will be held each year as part of the Port Esperance Regatta: this year a team from Dover won it.
Posted May 28, 2017, 7:48 AM by Posts Editor
Movie at the Palais Sunday June 4th: RamsTeam Movies writes: We are screening the sensational, multi award winning and audience favourite, the 2015 Icelandic film ‘Rams’. Alert: Team Classic Movies will be raising the bar to its highest level by screening a quality film that will impress all movie goers. Synopsis: Two sheep farming brothers who haven’t spoken to each other for forty years and suffer petty jealousies and rivalries are affected by the infection of one of their flocks by a dreaded disease. Rams is rated M: Coarse language and nudity Pack your glasses, film is sub-titled. Doors open 6.30pm, film starts when someone flicks the lights. After 7.15pm but before 7.30pm. Admission is $5. Bring a plate.
Posted May 28, 2017, 2:56 AM by Posts Editor
Linking the Huon and Derwent valleysA shortcut to New Norfolk is a bit of an old chestnut, but you never know, the latest proposal which envisages using Jeffrey’s Track may have legs. It would make towing boats to the north and west of the state easier. Hear the Huon Valley Commissioner Adriana Taylor discuss it on the ABC: http://ab.co/2rCfjol
Posted May 24, 2017, 10:04 PM by Posts Editor
Looking for LucyRob Linnell writes: ‘I’m trying to find out what happened to a particular boat. It was owned by my great grandfather, who built the Franklin Evaporator. It was built inside one of the timber sheds on the pier opposite the Bank building. It was built by William Ball, of huon pine, and was a 37 foot motor launch, with a narrow beam and shallow draft. It was used to carry passengers up and down the river, and was used for holidays. My 96 year old father remembers the ‘Lucy’ and used to go on it when he was there during his school holidays as a young lad. He keeps wondering what happened to it. It was elongated by 10 …
Posted May 23, 2017, 5:06 AM by Posts Editor
Bass Strait Maritime Centre NewsThe autumn/winter edition (attached: http://bit.ly/2q7v2rN) brings us the latest wooden boaty stories from the top end of the island, and is a reminder that a visit to this centre in Devonport is very worthwhile. If you are traveling by ferry it is only minutes away from the terminal.
Posted May 21, 2017, 4:06 PM by Posts Editor
A History of Antarctica in Twenty NovelsJohn Wadsley writes to inform us of this talk to be held on Tuesday 6 June 2017, 12 noon to 1pm, Royal Society Room in TMAG, Davey Street entrance. ‘This is going to be a great presentation with Assoc. Prof Elizabeth Leane from UTAS coming along to talk on how Antarctica has influenced literature and the arts.Elizabeth is a published author on Antarctic themes and this should be an interesting, and perhaps quirky, look at how authors have seen the Antarctic.’ As I recall Biggles encountered polar bears in Antarctica in one of his later adventures: maybe we will find out about that. Details in attached flyer (http://bit.ly/2q2ppLp).
Posted May 19, 2017, 6:38 PM by Posts Editor
News from NewfoundlandBarb Dawson and David Budd write: ‘They have the world’s steepest boat ramps, and a few navigational hazards not found in Tasmania, but local fishing boats have more toguide them than a GPS! A great place for maritime meanderings, beautiful little harbours and colourful fishing boats……but bring a thick coat!!’ See the accompanying pictures: they tell the story. Next time one of those Big Islanders complains about chilly Tassie waters we’ll point ’em here and tell ’em to quit their whinging.
Posted May 19, 2017, 6:20 PM by Posts Editor
Launch of a foreshore development initiativeBec Enders, from the Franklin Progress Association, tells us that there are plans afoot to develop the foreshore between the boat ramp and the camp ground (next to the Village Green). Come down there this Friday (the 19th) at 10:30am to meet the horticulture students who will be doing the planning, and discuss with them how you use the foreshore. There will be a special announcement made later in the morning by a VIP.
Posted May 16, 2017, 5:56 AM by Posts Editor
Tuesday Group reportGraham Wright writes: A diverse range of activities in the shed today.The ongoing restore on Monty continues, with Peter finishing the painting on the brand new rudder. Dennis is still working on the replacement ‘grating’. Paul and Allan finished off the storm drain outlet as per the plans, this is now complete.The new toilets only need a quick sand and then painting can commence. Black Swan is finally back in the water and Huon Rat is in the shed for an overdue paint and TLC. Pictures from Graham.
Posted May 16, 2017, 5:50 AM by Posts Editor
Monday 29th DIY DinnerThe cooks are having a well deserved rest. The BBQ’s were tuned up for Tawe Nunnugah so let’s put ’em to use. Bring grilling food and/or something to share: let’s see if we can break the record for the number of potato salads. Could be a good night for a bonfire. Cost is $5 to keep the doors open. Pic from Wikimedia
Posted May 14, 2017, 3:40 PM by Posts Editor
What’s happened to the bluegumThose blue gum slabs which were in the water next to the dinghy shed didn’t just float there: they are being kept wet for future use. Just to prove the point, last week David Nash (and friends) cut a couple of planks from them to repair Yukon – see the video on the Wooden Boat Centre Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/woodenboatcentre/videos/pcb.461845190823246/461838894157209/?type=3&theater
Posted May 13, 2017, 4:38 PM by Posts Editor
Franklin History Group newsletterAllan Cato has sent us the latest edition of the newsletter (attached: http://bit.ly/2qfqDDJ). It includes the great aerial shot of the north Franklin foreshore taken in 1995 shown below, from Ruth and John Young. There is no LBT, no marina and only a smattering of boats, but there is a wharf in front of the evaporator sheds.
Posted May 12, 2017, 11:52 PM by Posts Editor
Skiffs in the newsJocelyn Fogagnolo has written a nice piece for the Boating page of the Saturday Mercury.
Posted May 12, 2017, 8:30 PM by Posts Editor
FWWA May NewsletterSonia Shimeld has sent us the latest Franklin Working Waterfront newsletter (attached: http://bit.ly/2prBfm4), which features amongst other things the photo of the Wooden Boat Centre shown below. It was taken by Ruth Young in 1995.
Posted May 12, 2017, 2:59 AM by Posts Editor
Australian Register of Historic VesselsPeter Higgs (from the Australian National Maritime Museum) writes: Please find attached (http://bit.ly/2pALdg0 and http://bit.ly/2pACvhZ) an invitation to attend an Information Session about the Australian Register of Historic Vessels to be held at the Port of Cygnet Sailing Club, Lymington Road, Cygnet, Wednesday 31st May, 7.30pm.Peter will talk about ‘Why would I register my boat on the ARHV’. See the attached documents for more details.
Posted May 11, 2017, 4:18 AM by Posts Editor
New rudder for the MontyWhen you are in the middle of a Raid and things go to pot, a rudder jury rigged from pieces of old plywood is a thing of beauty. When you get back to a safe harbour maybe less so. At least that’s what Cody Horgan thought, and being a man of action he set to with some bits of nice Jarra discovered in John Young’s stash. When we caught up with him he was just applying the finishing touches to the new rudder, peening the ends of copper nails over roves. Thanks Cody!Thanks also to Dennis Muscovich who is busy restoring the wooden grating on the Monty – see pics below.
Posted May 11, 2017, 4:00 AM by Posts Editor
Visit from Japanese community groupThe Living Boat Trust is a veritable melting pot these days. No sooner had the Hazara left than the Japanese arrived. They were from community groups which had formed to respond to the Tsunami. They were interested in how our Ozzie community group works, but listening to their stories and realising the scale of what they had to deal with – coastline damage stretching 500 km – was a humbling experience. They have more to teach us than we them! You never know though: we sowed the seeds of a ‘Skiff led community revival’, so maybe some time in the future we will need to win an Asian division before having the honor of competing in a Skiff World Cup. Thanks to …
Posted May 10, 2017, 6:07 AM by Posts Editor
Visit from the Hazara communityDeb Van Velsen writes: On a grey Sunday in late April, more than a dozen cars drove over 50 people from Hobart to the LBT. These Tasmanians have experienced life as refugees, and their main language is Hazaragi. This is the second time the LBT has welcomed their visit, starting with a shared morning tea. Everyone then thoroughly enjoyed time on the boats, with Jane Johnson and Tess going out with countless crews in Imagine, Peter Laidlaw and Richard Forster doing the same in grebes, and Martin Riddle and Brian Marriott doing mini cruises on The Nancy. Many people tried out all of the boats, and some managed to get themselves on all of the boats multiple times!! There were …
Posted May 10, 2017, 5:52 AM by Richard Forster
Welcome to fleet for the MontyFor this celebration we were blessed with a perfect moonlit night. Under a glare of flares, and to the tolling of the LBT bell, Monty was rowed in by a team led by John Young to accept the cheers of a large crowd. See pics from Richard Edwards and Nell Tyson below.
Posted May 10, 2017, 4:48 AM by Richard Forster
St Ayles Skiff conquest of the world proceedsPeter Doyle from Geelong writes: Just a quick blast to let you know that we are finally underway in Geelong and will be kick-starting our boat building on Saturday 13 May!! As planned, we will be building two skiffs, side-by-side at a site provided by Deakin University at their Gheringhap, Street Waterside campus. It is a big, twin loading dock and perfect for us. Peter is a good friend of the LBT and we wish him and his team every success. In the meantime the Skiff seed has been planted with a visiting group from Japan. We await developments.
Posted May 4, 2017, 3:30 PM by Posts Editor
Windeward Bound opportunityLisa Kluver writes: ‘We are delighted to advise that the Windeward Bound Trust has been fortunate enough to receive significant funding from the Tasmanian Department of State Growth, and as a result, during 2017, we are conducting a series of voyages as we circumnavigate Tasmania. We would like to offer your members aged between 15-25 years the opportunity to join us on one of these youth development voyages, as sail trainees. No previous sailing experience is necessary.’If you aren’t in the demographic you could send the kids or grandkids off to be whipped into shape – maybe literally. Contact and other details on image attached below.
Posted May 6, 2017, 2:59 PM by Posts Editor
Reminder: special Monday night coming upPlans for the ‘Welcome to Fleet’ for the Montagu Whaler are well advanced. Congregate about 6pm for the start of festivities, which will be followed by the usual Monday night dinner. Pic from Phil Meaney
Posted May 2, 2017, 1:49 PM by Richard Forster
Black Swan ready to go back in the waterWith the Tuesday group it’s a case of ‘not only but also’. The enhancements to the shed steadily progress, Nancy’s maintenance schedule is addressed, various waterfront issues are attended to, AND our dinghies get their much needed ‘cut and polish’.
Posted May 2, 2017, 5:18 AM by Posts Editor
Gypsy BayWe all know that the best rowing waters are down here on the Huon, but just to test the point Jane Johnson organised a ‘reconnaissance’ up around Dunally. After assessing the weather, tides etc, the boats were put in at Gypsy Bay boat ramp, and we set off for Sloping Island via a peek into Carlton River, with a return route which took in Lagoon Beach. Without being disloyal we think we can say ‘it’s pretty nice’. See map and some pics below. See also Deb Van Velsen’s pics on Facebook (may require login): http://bit.ly/2oNvLl9 .
Posted Apr 30, 2017, 3:48 PM by Posts Editor
CartelaRoss James will be at dinner on Monday night to answer questions about what might be happening with Cartela.
Posted Apr 27, 2017, 10:51 PM by Posts Editor
AHOB NewsletterThe Association of Heritage Boat Organisation, based at the Maritime Museum, is an umbrella for groups such as ours. See their very interesting newsletter attached: http://bit.ly/2qdG8yK
Posted May 13, 2017, 12:00 AM by Posts Editor
Movie at the Palais: Sunday 7th MayTeam movies writes: ‘This not to be missed classic film is the 1965 testosterone charged, Cold War drama, ‘The Bedford Incident’. The Bedford Incident is rated G. Just $5 will ensure an evening of brow-knitting tension. Synopsis: An American destroyer captain is determined to confront a Soviet submarine caught violating territorial waters. Perhaps too determined. (Courtesy IMDb).… Please drag along anyone/anything with a heartbeat, Sunday 7 May, upstairs at the Franklin Palais. Doors open 6.30pm.’
Posted Apr 27, 2017, 6:15 PM by Posts Editor
NoostsDavid Pittaway and Laurence Burgin have been discussing ‘noosts’ (presumably Scottish for ‘nests’) for sheltering our Skiffs and whaleboats. David has come up with the concept drawings shown below. See what you think.
Posted Apr 25, 2017, 9:26 PM by Posts Editor
Special Monday night at the LBTNext Monday (May 1st) Ros Barnett is celebrating a ‘significant’ birthday (we are guessing 30) by cooking at the LBT, and hopes as many of her friends as possible can make it.
Posted Apr 25, 2017, 9:16 PM by Posts Editor
Maritime Museum Monthly Talk 2 May – Whaling in VDL and the Art of ScrimshawJohn Wadsley writes:‘Please find attached (http://bit.ly/2q4tbad) our flyer for the next MMT Monthly Talk to be held on Tuesday 2 May 2017, 12 noon to 1pm. Usual place, Royal Society Room in TMAG, Davey Street entrance. This is going to be a great talk with Colin Thomas, scrimshaw collector extraordinaire coming along to talk on Whaling in VDL and the art of scrimshaw. Colin has a world-renowned collection and he is a passionate speaker on early Tasmanian history. Hope to see you all there.’
Posted Apr 25, 2017, 4:12 PM by Posts Editor
Visions of the foreshoreA reorganisation of the office always turns up something interesting. This time it was an ‘artist’s impression’ of what an improved North Franklin waterfront might look like. This was done about ten years ago by Charles Zuber, who also designed the LBT logo.
Posted Apr 30, 2017, 4:39 PM by Posts Editor
Gracie on Wyvernhoe DamGreat to see that John Walduck has ‘Gracie’ out of the shed, and looks like he has a reef in already. For those few who don’t know John, he and Jane recently moved from Franklin to Brisbane. We are hoping that they see sense and come back, but we can’t say that.
Posted Apr 21, 2017, 3:15 PM by Posts Editor
Former Refugee community visit for boating & apple pickingDeb Van Velsen writes to remind us that this group will be at the Shed for a visit on Sunday, arriving about 11.30am. Anybody who wants to come down and particate and help out from 10.30 am on is welcome. See details attached >> http://bit.ly/2pRmyrG . The group during a past event taking a Skiff out.
Posted Apr 22, 2017, 2:21 PM by Posts Editor
Work around the shedThe push to completion of the renovations is on so that we can get sign-off from the council. The plumbing in the new toilets has been installed, lots of electrical work done, the disabled car park has been marked out, and the drainage from the roof is being tidied up. Big thanks to the Tuesday Group who have taken responsibility for all of this. The rest of us can just enjoy the fruits of their labours.
Posted Apr 20, 2017, 2:31 PM by Posts Editor
The LBT archiveThere are some very indignant spiders in the office protesting the disruption to their homes in the depths of the LBT cupboards. New shelves are going in, and the Tuesday group have unearthed all sorts of forgotten documents in the process of cleaning up and sorting out.
Posted Apr 20, 2017, 2:16 PM by Posts Editor
Autumn: a great time to be on the riverThe early morningfog (the ‘Judberry Jerry’) rolls down the river at pace, driven bya land breeze to whisk our boats along. John Youngand crew took advantage of this to get the Monty wellalong on her way to Dover for the Port Esperance Regatta. Once the fog lifts the days are warm and still, wonderful for peoplebut not so for sailing. It’s goodto be able to take an (ahem) tow from somebody like Peter Laidlaw in‘Theona’, until the sea breeze kicks in in the afternoon. Pics from Endra O’May
Posted Apr 19, 2017, 11:18 PM by Posts Editor
Pics from Port Esperance RegattaSee the Port Esperance Sailing Club gallery: http://bit.ly/2pMMYHm . There should be more of these to come. Pete Laidlaw’s ‘Theona’, pic from Port Esperance Sailing Club
Posted Apr 28, 2017, 12:25 AM by Posts Editor
Working Waterfront NewsletterSee attached (http://bit.ly/2ppXyHM). Lots of news, both current and past. You can build a Viking boat, and there is an especially interesting item from Ruth Young about the development of the foreshore.
Posted Apr 17, 2017, 2:54 PM by Posts Editor
Port Esperance RegattaOld friend of the Living Boat Trust ‘La Chaloupe’ was the starting boat for off the shore races – see the report attached from the Dover Men’s Shed, who built and maintain her – http://bit.ly/2plHGWU. More reports of the regatta to follow (hopefully). It was a huge success.
Posted Apr 18, 2017, 1:18 AM by Posts Editor
Welcome to fleet for Monty May 8thThe Monty only came to the Living Boat Trust a couple of months ago but has already been in the thick of things. Currently she is at Dover ready to participate in the Port Esperance Regatta. She’s been so busy we haven’t had time to officially acknowledge her arrival, a lack we plan to remedy on Monday evening, May 8th. Put it in your diary. We will be inviting everybody involved in the Monty restoration to join us for the normal dinner when there will be ‘extra activities’. Those who want to make speeches can apply to sec@lbt.org.au: keep ’em under half an hour. More details to follow. Pic from Ben Forster
Posted Apr 17, 2017, 6:29 AM by Posts Editor
Afloat in the Return RaidThe Return Raid from Hobart to Franklin features in an article in the April edition of ‘Afloat’ magazine (http://bit.ly/2odiUn6), free from many outlets including Franklin Marine, or viewable online at http://bit.ly/2odqJJI.
Posted Apr 13, 2017, 5:31 PM by Posts Editor
Montys in strange placesFriend of the Living Boat Trust Bernie Bruen writes:‘Here is a photograph of the ‘Montagu Swan’, berthed on the floating pontoon outside the Swan Hotel, Cornwall Beach, Plymouth in 1984. At the time, many people asked: how had she got in there and how was she going to get out again? Were there particularly low spring tides at the time? We, of course, know the answer but you may like to offer up the puzzle to your readers.’
Posted Apr 7, 2017, 12:09 AM by Posts Editor
Monty SundayNot long to the Easter Regatta at Dover, where we hope Monty will be participating – with a crew who is familiar with her. Come along Sunday at 3pm to gain that familiarity and join that crew. Pic from Phil Meaney
Posted Apr 7, 2017, 12:00 AM by Posts Editor
Farewell Brooke St pier roofA sensible use for the roof hasn’t been found, so it is being dismantled with the intention of using the timbers for the ‘Cartela’ restoration. A bit sad, but there you go.
Posted Apr 6, 2017, 11:52 PM by Posts Editor
Sailing MondayThe ‘Monty’ went for a drift in the non-existent breeze yesterday, but we are hoping for better this afternoon. Come down to the shed around 3.30pm to rig up.
Posted Apr 2, 2017, 2:12 PM by Posts Editor
Gretchen and Kontiki need friendsIt’s time to get back to some long standing maintenance jobs, now that the flurry around Tawe Nunnugah and the Skiff Regatta are behind us. A lot of time has been spent on getting ‘Gretchen‘ watertight, and Peter Laidlaw is keen to reinstitute the Tuesday evening group which has got the job done thus far. Those interested should come along next Tuesday at 5pm. Similarly the ‘Kontiki‘ (Flying Fifteen) needs to some love, and Peter will be there to meet fellow enthusiasts on Thursday evening at 5pm. These are important boats for our fleet, and we are keen to get them back on the water. Pics below are the before, and what we hope will be the after.
Posted Mar 31, 2017, 4:46 PM by Posts Editor
Learn to Sail the MontyJoin the Monty sailers on Sunday afternoons at 3.00pm at the shed. We hope to take ‘the Monty’ down to the sail in the Port Esperance Regatta at Easter, and need a crew that is familiar with her. Pic from Endra O’May
Posted Mar 28, 2017, 2:02 PM by Posts Editor
Australia’s new Antarctic IcebreakerJohn Wadsley from the Maritime Museum writes:‘Owing to the cancellation of the previously booked speaker for April due to illness, this ad for the monthly talk has come out a bit later than I wanted. However, the topic should be of great interest to many. Nick Browne from the AAD will be discussing the new Antarctic Icebreaker project. The flyer is attached (http://bit.ly/2ngbbFr). Hope to see you there next week.’ Time: 12.00-1.00pm, Tuesday 4 April 2017 Place: Royal Society Room, Tasmanian Museum and Art Gallery, Customs House, 19 Davey St entrance.
Posted Mar 28, 2017, 1:28 PM by Posts Editor
Sailing SundayThe Living Boat Trust was on the water taking advantage of the Indian summer. Two of our Skiffs joined ‘Chiton’ from Taroona and went out for a row from Kingston to Fossil Beach on the Tinderbox Peninsula. Meanwhile back at Franklin another crew took the Monty out to enjoy the sea breeze coming up the river. Pics from Endra O’May and Celia Leverton.
Posted Mar 27, 2017, 2:13 PM by Posts Editor
Classic Movie Night at the Palais: Sunday 2 AprilThe movie this week: Last Ride. Team Movies writes: ‘I had not heard of this film until I recently watched an interview with the Aussie actor, Hugo Weaving. Weaving said this was his most challenging role to date and the one he was most proud of (words to that effect). So I did my research and found this gem of a film. Synopsis: The film follows a young boy (Tom Russell) accompanying his father (Hugo Weaving), who is wanted by the police, across Australia. (Courtesy Wikipedia)’ ‘Last Ride’ is rated M. Admission $5′, upstairs at the Franklin Palais. Doors open 6.30pm, film starts when someone flicks the lights, after 7.15pm but before 7.30pm.
Posted Mar 26, 2017, 7:24 PM by Posts Editor
Sail to Three Hummock Island on the Julie BurgessFor those with $1500 burning a hole in their pockets, this might be a good way to spend it. The ‘Julie Burgess’ is a beautifully restored ketch run by the Bass Strait Maritime Centre in Devonport, similar to Yukon. See flyer below for details.
Posted Mar 26, 2017, 4:00 PM by Posts Editor
Sailing called off: Monday 27thThere is a high chance of rain and strong winds, so let’s wait for that fair weather.
Posted Mar 26, 2017, 3:07 PM by Posts Editor
Foreshore plan discussionOn Monday at 6pm Martin Krynen will be at the shed to discuss the new foreshore plan prepared to go with the Evaporator Shed development. This plan is available at http://bit.ly/2mh0q4a.
Posted Mar 24, 2017, 6:18 PM by Posts Editor
Dutch Skiff RegattaBert Van Baar writes:‘Did you know that the next international St Ayles Skiff Regatta will be held in the Netherlands? The end of May is the time to be here. Just look at http://www.wsv-st-ayles-skiff-regatta.nl/about-woudrichem.html ‘
Posted Mar 20, 2017, 11:24 PM by Posts Editor
Easter RowLiz Marshall writes:‘Ladies: we need you to attend our Easter Friday row to try and beat last year’s numbers. Let me know if you are coming, and bring your Easter hat.’
Posted Mar 20, 2017, 11:16 PM by Posts Editor
New Tasmanians visiting LBTDeb Van Velsen writes: ‘New Tasmanians who were previously refugees or asylum seekers will visit the LBT on Sunday 23rd April from 10:30am. We would love extra people so there can be more boats out with people, as well as just joining in the fun. In 2015, more than 40 people had a really enjoyable time at the LBT. There was great fun on the water as Tess and Jane J. took 5 crews of keen new rowers in Imagine, and the Nancy did 4 short trips with Martin and Deb. The group paid to go on the boats and brought their own picnic lunch which Zainab helped to set out. The group finished the afternoon with picking and …
Posted Mar 20, 2017, 3:42 PM by Posts Editor
Cygnet’s Le WeekendTess Hallinan writes: ‘The Lady Nelson is coming to Cygnet’s “Le Weekend” 7-10th April, when Cygnet celebrates its French connections. The original Lady Nelson met with Baudin’s French exploration party in 1802 and later became one of the two ships to carry the first settlers to Risdon Cove. “In the Wake of Baudin” is the theme of the visit and it is sponsored by the volunteer Lady Nelson organisation, the Cygnet Living History Musueum and the Huon Valley Community Bank branches of the Bendigo Bank. Read the posters to see the variety of different sailing trips offered. The longer trips are fully catered.’Flyer attached: http://bit.ly/2mKBXoN
Posted Mar 20, 2017, 2:53 PM by Posts Editor
Monday sailing (with a difference)Looks as though the weather will be benign on Monday afternoon, so time to rig up and get out on the water. The thought is that we may do it with ‘the Monty’. Pic from Endra O’May
Posted Mar 19, 2017, 4:54 AM by Posts Editor
Dover Regatta (including St Ayles Skiff races)Karen Corbin writes: ‘The 2017 Dover Regatta will be held over the Easter weekend commencing Friday 14th April. Lots of fun for all, including great food and a dance on the Saturday night. For further information on the program see www.pesc.com.au . There will be skiff races on Saturday the 15th commencing at 10am. Races will be 1km open men, womens and mixed. There will also be a longer race (approx. 5.5 km) around Hope Island in the afternoon. There is a small registration fee for all rowers. Please contact Karen Corbin at kcorbin4216@yahoo.com to register your team or individual interest.’ Pic from Phil Meany
Posted Mar 16, 2017, 11:37 PM by Posts Editor
Anitra VPhil from Sydney brought his boat down to participate in the Cygnet regatta, but forgot to pack his crew. An invitation issued to the LBT Monday night diners quickly remedied the situation, turning up a crack team of foredeck hands, grinders and helmsmen, and Phil has sent the accompanying pics of the action. The boat, Anitra V, used to be owned by Sir Garfield Barwick, a name to conjure with for those interested in recent Australian history. Phil’s report on the event is attached – see http://bit.ly/2mxqFn4
Posted Mar 16, 2017, 1:53 PM by Posts Editor
Dutchies in Franklin: short documentaryBert van Baar sent us a link to this. The translated introduction says: ‘BOAT BUILDING IN WAKE OF ABEL TASMAN.In early December six students left from the Wood and Furniture College in Amsterdam and Rotterdam with their teacher Bert van Baar for Australia to build a 16m2 sailing dingy. The project was dedicated to Abel Tasman who arrived in Tasmania 375 years ago. This mini-documentary (https://youtu.be/vrEGzK0hZr0) follows the students during the construction of the boat and talks about what moved them to participate in this project.’ Helps if you can speak Dutch.
Posted Mar 15, 2017, 5:49 AM by Posts Editor
Fun on the water: we aren’t the only onesLast weekend Snug oval and beach were awash with scouts who had congregated for their annual regatta. We were particularly taken with the custom office trailer and the number and variety of boats: see pics below. For those who were happy to travel further afield, it looks like the Inverloch Classic wooden Dinghy Regatta was a good place to be at the end of January. See attached: http://bit.ly/2mpfJIe.
Posted Mar 15, 2017, 5:46 AM by Posts Editor
Tassie’s Whale Boys: Whaling in Antarctic WatersJohn Wadsley from the Maritime Museum writes: ‘Hi to all my MHOoT buddies, Now I’m sure you all like to sit down and have a good read, after a long day ‘afore the mast, or hauling the cray pots in, or just messin’ about in your dinghy Well, do we have any exciting announcement for you! “TASSIE’S WHALE BOYS: WHALING IN ANTARCTIC WATERS” has just been released by Maritime Museum member and researcher MICHAEL STODDART. It is published by 40 South Publishing. And we are holding a book launch at 5.30pm, on Wednesday, 22nd March 2017 at the Maritime Museum of Tasmania, cnr Argyle and Davey Sts, Hobart. It will be launched by the former Governor of …
Posted Mar 14, 2017, 12:49 PM by Posts Editor
Volunteer awardsLisa Plohl from Huon Council writes: ‘Council is very excited to announce and open the Volunteer Awards for 2017. This is the first year that these very important awards will coincide with National Volunteer Week 8 – 14 May 2017. Do you know volunteers within our community? Why not nominate them today… Attached is a nomination form (http://bit.ly/2mp9CDI) and poster. Please feel free to pass this onto friends, family and community groups. Stay tuned for more exciting news on Volunteer Week.’
Posted Mar 14, 2017, 12:41 PM by Posts Editor
Franklin: slow town (and we like it)You’ve got your slow food, your slow boats, and now it seems Franklin is to have a slow road. Bec Enders writes: ‘The Franklin Progress Association (FPA) has had success in changing the speed limit in Franklin through their collaborative approach in working with the Huon Valley Council, Huon Regional Care and Sgt Fogarty of the Huonville Police Station. We have been advised that the 870 metre extension should take the 50km zone to north of Eldercare. This would mean that the 60km and 80km zones would also need to be extended further north. The FPA would like to take the opportunity to thank those that made numerous attempts in the past to achieve this outcome. No doubt you …
Posted Mar 14, 2017, 12:50 PM by Posts Editor
New plan for the waterfrontMartin and Judy Krynen are going apace with the development of the old evaporator sheds, and have had some plans for further development around their site drawn up. Of note are the extra docks. See the plans at http://bit.ly/2mh0q4a.
Posted Mar 12, 2017, 7:08 PM by Posts Editor
Working Waterfront March newsletter See attached (http://bit.ly/2ndX0nP): all the news from the Wooden Boat Centre, a nice historical piece from Allan Cato on the wreck of the Natal Queen, plus much more. Pic from Stage Library of South Australia
Posted Mar 12, 2017, 7:03 PM by Posts Editor
Monday Grebe sailing is BACKWe have recovered from raids and regattas, the Oracle (that would be Peter Laidlaw) has been consulted, the entrails of a brim caught on the marina have been examined, and we have even checked the BOM forecast. Monday afternoon at 3.30pm at the LBT looks like the time and place. Come down ready to rig up.
Posted Mar 12, 2017, 4:16 AM by Posts Editor
New Raid pics from EndraPictures from the Raid have been coming in (see bit.ly/2nbmty5 ) including some beauties from Endra O’May at bit.ly/2nb9oEX. There were big pods of dolphins encountered all the way up from Recherche, but we haven’t seen a better pic than this one.
Posted Mar 11, 2017, 3:37 PM by Richard Forster
Using Council Land: new by-lawsThe Huon Council writes:‘Council intends to make a new Council Land & Recreational Facilities By-law, By-law No. 1 of 2017 to replace the current By-law. The purpose of the proposed By-law is for the control and management of Council land and recreational facilities. A copy of the proposed By-law and the Regulatory Impact Statement is attached for your information (http://bit.ly/2n3VJfH). Stakeholder consultation on the By-law is being undertaken and a letter is also attached which provides information on how to make a submission. Submissions should be received no later than Wednesday 29 March 2017 Phone 03 6264 0300 | Fax 03 6264 0399. Email hvc@huonvalley.tas.gov.au | Web www.huonvalley …
Posted Mar 7, 2017, 7:41 PM by Posts Editor
Skiffs on ParadeZainab Clarke has sent in a large collection of photos from the Skiff Regatta. There is some good ‘uns of the Skiffs in the boat parade at http://bit.ly/2mvzFNh . Pic from Zainab Clarke
Posted Mar 7, 2017, 3:54 PM by Posts Editor
Lady Nelson at Port HuonMarcia Waller writes: ‘You may be interested in the sailing tours on the Lady Nelson this weekend from Port Huon. The Rotary Club of Huon Valley have partnered with the Lady Nelson crew to raise funds for the youth of the valley.’ See flyer below for details: http://bit.ly/2mv3NrY
Posted Mar 6, 2017, 5:25 PM by Posts Editor
Barefoot Bowls at FranklinBec Enders writes: Date: Friday 10 March 2017; Time: 5:00pm for approximately a 5:30pm start; RSVP: Return email please to me (becjon@iinet.com.au). 5 reasons why you should come and support the Franklin Bowls Club: 1. To support the oldest surviving club in Franklin; 2. To learn some new moves that won’t break your back or leave you breathless; 3. To meet members of our community who have been here a lot longer than any of us (with the exception of a very few friends receiving this email); 4. To help the Franklin Bowlers celebrate a good season over some nibbles and drinks; 5. Because they serve good quality wine, beer and cider…………and Taylor …
Posted Mar 6, 2017, 5:27 PM by Posts Editor
Waarnambool Regatta 4th-5th MarchA team from the LBT competed successfully in the Skiff section of this regatta, and, more importantly, had a great time. Thanks to Pat Groot and all our friends at Waarnambool for the hospitality they showed us. A couple of things caught the eye. First was the whaleboat racing trophy (pictured). Hard to top that. Second was the whaleboats themselves – not as good as Swiftsure and the Monty (of course) but nevertheless three real whaleboats having a real race. Next year we should aim to have multiple teams and lift that trophy. See pics included below to get some more flavour of the event.
Posted Mar 6, 2017, 5:17 PM by Posts Editor
Scout Guide Regatta – North West BayMAST Notice to Mariners. Valid From: 11/3/2017 Until: 13/3/2017‘The Scout Guide Regatta will be taking place in the waters of North West Bay off Snug Beach on the weekend of 11, 12 and 13 March 2017, during daylight hours. Mariners are advised that in accordance with Regulation 71 of the Marine and Safety (Pilotage and Navigation) Regulations 2007 they should not navigate in a manner that will affect proceedings.
Posted Mar 6, 2017, 4:13 AM by Posts Editor
Cygnet Regatta starting 10th MarchSee flyer below (http://bit.ly/2lS9q0k) for details. Get your entry in SOON. Note that the Cygnet Public Jetty will be closed for this event.
Posted Mar 6, 2017, 5:58 PM by Posts Editor
Classic Movie Night at the Palais: Carol, Sunday 5th MarchLiz from the Palais writes: ‘This months movie is running in conjunction with the Huon Valley LGBTI Film Festival (see http://bit.ly/2mwWnSM), and is the 2015 academy award winning (nominated for 6) Carol, starring Cate Blanchett, Directed by Todd Haynes. Takes place in 1950’s New York, where a young aspiring photographer falls into an intimate relationship with an older woman whose marriage has been in trouble for some time. Described as a beautiful character driven slow burn…….in a gorgeous but gritty portrayal of the 1950’s. You know the drill by heart now. Bring along anything that is warm blooded and pack a handkerchief to wipe the tears from your eyes through this dramatic masterpiece. Sunday …
Posted Mar 6, 2017, 3:58 AM by Posts Editor
Oz Day thank youFor those who participated in our Australia Day activities Lisa Plohl writes: ‘Thank you for all your help. Please join us on Thursday 2 March 5.30pm – 7.30pm Cricket Club – Franklin Oval. We would like to say “Thanks” to all our volunteers and sponsors. Please RSVP to Lisa Plohl by 24 February (for catering purposes). Partners welcome; 6264 0343; lplohl@huonvalley.tas.gov.au.’ Flyer attached: http://bit.ly/2lVtgdI Pic from Lorrie Harrison
Posted Feb 26, 2017, 5:41 PM by Posts Editor
Monty’s cheek-piecesFriend of the Living Boat Trust Bernie Bruen writes:‘I have been thinking about the cheek-pieces. A carving is OK but you could take the opportunity to go somewhat better. Here it is. In order to encourage people to get interested in decorative ropework (see The Ashley Book of Knots) and to be physically involved with the boat, offer to put this year’s winner and runner up onto the Cheek-pieces; changing the exhibit for each season. The ropework would have to be of suitable dimensions to fit and would be best done in man-made fibre or thoroughly soaked in epoxy to preserve it if done in natural fibre. Traditionally it should be painted white. At the …
Posted Feb 26, 2017, 9:52 PM by Posts Editor
Raid PicsLinks to pictures from the Raid are being added to repository at http://bit.ly/2lxymw9 as we become aware of them. Pic from Ben Forster
Posted Feb 25, 2017, 2:43 PM by Posts Editor
Monty v DucksThe Monty needs a home. The ducks in the pic below reckon the new pontoon is a key part of their guano production operation, and aren’t very happy about her going there. Pic from Graham Wright
Posted Feb 25, 2017, 1:10 PM by Posts Editor
End of Regatta CurryYet another highlight of the Skiff Regatta was the celebration curry dinner served up by Jilly Archer. Hans Sipsma sent in this pic with a different angle on proceedings.
Posted Feb 26, 2017, 2:22 PM by Posts Editor
LBT seeks treasurer‘Ask not what the Living Boat Trust can do for you, ask what etc, etc’. Here is a great chance for somebody to make a contribution. Our previous treasurers have done a great job of getting things organised, so it’s just a question of keeping the ball rolling. We can look at various options for dividing the job if need be. Send your notice of interest to sec@lbt.org.au Pic from Robert Doucette
Posted Feb 23, 2017, 1:43 PM by Posts Editor
On (and off) the Water with Huon Valley SchoolsSam Mifsud, whose daughter attends Franklin Primary, asks us what has happened to our On the Water Program. Good question. If you would like to help revive our schools program please add your details to the list below, or email sec@lbt.org.au
Posted Feb 23, 2017, 5:01 AM by Posts Editor
Please return the YamyCould the borrower of our Yamaha outboard motor please return it.
Posted Feb 23, 2017, 4:00 AM by Posts Editor
Pics from Skiff RegattaNell Tyson has submitted the first batch of photos from the Regatta, and a link to them has been added to the ‘Tasskiffie2017 Pics’ page at http://bit.ly/2lqzXUy. As more come in that is where they will go.
Posted Feb 22, 2017, 1:41 PM by Posts Editor
2017 Port Esperance RegattaRebecca Hancock writes:‘This year’s Regatta will be a three day event to be held during the Easter long weekend (Friday 14th April to Sunday 16th April), comprising three series of sailing races on Port Esperance and the d’Entrecasteaux Channel. Enjoy a welcome BBQ on Friday evening at the Port Esperance Sailing Club, Dover, spit roast on Saturday evening with fine rock ‘n’ blues music from Full Tilt Boogie, and lots more. Please find attached (http://bit.ly/2m77xxb)the Notice of Race for the Regatta. Online entry form and NoR are also available on the PESC website at www.pesc.com.au. For further information please contact Matt Wardell on 0428 279 002 or email commodore@pesc …
Posted Feb 21, 2017, 12:38 AM by Posts Editor
Dutch boat DID floatBy the time it had been varnished it looked like an ornament, but just to prove that it was a real boat the Dutch boys took the 16M2 (built at the Wooden Boat Centre) for a spin out on the harbour.
Posted Feb 21, 2017, 12:02 AM by Posts Editor
Treasurer standing downIll health has forced Jackie Garnsey to stand down as Treasurer. The prospects for her long term recovery are good, but this may take some time. She writes: ‘I would appreciate a note on the LBTwebsite thanking the members for the assistance and friendship they have givenme over the past two years as it has made my time in Tasmania so much thebetter. ‘ Jackie has been a great ‘behind the scenes’ contributer to the LBT, and we all wish her the best. In the short term Lorrie Harrison, Richard Forster will be assuming her role (it will take two of us).
Posted Feb 20, 2017, 10:42 PM by Posts Editor
End of Raiding for another yearTawe Nunnugah is over, and the return raid is finished. All we can do is cultivate the whiskers we have grown, savor the memories, and plan for next time. Thanks to all who organised and worked to make this such a success. The pics below from Phil Meany show the camp at South Arm, yet another spectacular location.
Posted Feb 19, 2017, 3:20 AM by Posts Editor
Regatta ParadeThe boat parade from Huonville to Franklin to open the Regatta was a spectacular success. The only downside was that the organiser, David Budd, was not here to see it. Below are some pics, supplied largely be Rob Ayliffe, to illustrate.
Posted Feb 19, 2017, 2:55 AM by Posts Editor
Finalised Regatta ProgrammeAll digits crossed, this is it. See http://bit.ly/2lFhYqI Pic from Rob Ayliffe
Posted Feb 12, 2017, 9:26 PM by Posts Editor
When too much Skiff is not enoughRob Ayliffe writes: ‘Skiffie shout out! We need Skiffie Help! Skiff awareness raising in South Australia! Some of you will know that there is this idea of rowing three skiffs the 18KM from Penneshaw on Kangaroo Island, to Cape Jervis at the foot of the Fleurieu Penisula, as a curtain raiser to and in the week prior to the South Australian Wooden Boat Festival on the weekend of 22 and 23 April. It should attract quote a bit of media and really cause a buzz in Soputh Australia. Would be great to hear of any one, especially those of you who were in the recent magnificent Raid who might be interested. Following the crossing we have a high priority has …
Posted Feb 12, 2017, 9:27 PM by Posts Editor
Pontoon helpers wantedDavid Pittaway writes: ‘Pontoon 1 got her skirt completed last Wednesday, with the fender now extending around both ends. Prior to deployment for the skiff regatta, tie rails need to be bolted to each end, and as many screws replaced with bolts as able. If time and hands permit, a step rail/mid fender could be included. Last week I discussed P1’s possible location during the skiff regatta, off to the upstream end of the rowing ways, with Tim Brown. With suitable lines, we are satisfied P1 can be tied up safely, with one of the smaller square pontoons between, to the rowing ways. A length or two of angle iron might be needed in the bank to tie …
Posted Feb 12, 2017, 4:21 AM by Posts Editor
MAST notice for the Return RaidValid From: 10/2/2017 until: 16/2/2017 Notice Content: A fleet of small craft will be travelling under sail and oar from Hobart to Franklin via the D’Entrecasteaux Channel between 13-16 February 2017. Some vessels in the fleet have a low freeboard and may be difficult to see. Mariners in the area are requested to keep a lookout for the boats and navigate with caution in their vicinity.
Posted Feb 12, 2017, 2:58 AM by Posts Editor
The Raid – Unvarnished, Uncensored, Unadorned…..Click on TN17 (tab at top of LBT page) or go to tawe-nunnugah.org, to read stories from our local heroes.
Posted Feb 11, 2017, 5:42 PM by Posts Editor
Volunteers Wanted For LBT Stand at Wooden Boat FestivalVolunteers wanted to help Graham Rankin man the LBT stand at the Festival – even 2 hours of your time would be a great help. Friday, Saturday or Sunday 10am – 6pm Monday 10am – 3pmPlease add your name to roster at LBT, or contact Graham0400334216 or email woodenboatfreak@gmail.com
Posted Feb 7, 2017, 12:50 PM by Posts Editor
The Clock is Ticking….Karl Gallienne – Harcourts Community and Corporate Challenge 2017You see them in the health centre, you chat to them in the bank, but inside many of Huon’s model citizens is an elite athlete busting to get out. Come and see this amazing transformation at the St Ayles Skiff Regatta Community and Corporate Challenge – Saturday 18 February, 4.30 – 6.30pm. View a unique skill: the competitors rowing like crazy whilst outwardly appearing not to be taking it too seriously – and in some cases looking as though they are actually having fun!!!Photos by Nell Tyson
Posted Feb 6, 2017, 4:34 PM by Posts Editor
News from the Grand FleetFaint messages in Morse Code are being received from our adventurers on the Raid. Despite headwinds and testing conditions, morale is holding up. Flogging has been kept to the absolute minimum necessary to maintain discipline and the grog rations are being maintained. The picture from Kingborough VMR shows Swiftsure beautifully silhouetted against the murk.Conditions when the fleet finally beached at Dover were perfect.
Posted Feb 5, 2017, 2:46 PM by Posts Editor
When the Grandchildren ask “Were you actually there?”Woodstock…. Live Aid Wembley…. Franklin 2017….the truly great music events of the modern era. Put down that oar and pick up that air guitar…Weekend of St Ayles skiff regatta, be there or be square!
Posted Feb 2, 2017, 7:16 PM by Posts Editor
Boat Owners – Essential Date for your Diary!Showcase the Huon River in this unique event by bringing your boat (any craft with flags) or join one of the Living Boat Trust’s fleet. We have it all from kayaks, steamboats, rowing boats, launches, yachts…….Opening ceremony at Franklin followed immediately huge concert, food and entertainment at Palais Theatre, Franklin.For more information contactfranklinskiffie33@gmail.com
Posted Feb 1, 2017, 6:04 PM by Posts Editor
Just How Much Fun Can a Small Town Take ?Having just waved off the Raiders on their epic journey, still more events are fast approaching. Over the next few days, information on these events will be released:1) Huon River Parade of Boats and Regatta opening ceremony, followed by massive concert and food at the Palais Theatre (Friday 17 February)2) Regatta and Entertainment Festival – skiff rowing, music and food (Saturday and Sunday 18 and 19 February)3) Corporate Challenge – skiff races for local businesses and community groups (Saturday evening 18 February)
Posted Jan 31, 2017, 9:42 PM by Posts Editor
Stacked SkiffsRob Ayliffe shows how it is done: he is on his way down to the Raid and Regatta, with boats from Adelaide, Warrnambool and Melbourne being towed along behind.
Posted Jan 29, 2017, 11:07 PM by Posts Editor
Music at the St Ayles Skiff RegattaSandy Pollard has set up a Facebook page to help him organise and publicise the concerts: see it at https://www.facebook.com/FranklinRegattaAndMusicFestival/
Posted Jan 30, 2017, 1:01 PM by Richard Forster
Restoring Monty’s rudderThe dark area of wood in the accompanying photo shows what Monty’s rudder had been reduced to: presumably through years of wear. The light area is the extension being added by Brett Doubleday, which brings it back to it’s original size.
Posted Jan 29, 2017, 10:51 PM by Posts Editor
Wack ’em allDennis Muscovich has invented a new game. You set up your wooden grate with nails and then you …
Posted Jan 29, 2017, 10:43 PM by Posts Editor
Dinners at the LBT: not only but alsoThe LBT has been an absolute hive of activity this week as preparations are made for Tawe Nunnugah, and to top things off there will be TWO dinners this coming week. Monday will be the usual, but as well as that on Tuesday evening there will be a send off for the Raid participants. This will be held at the Evaporators (just downstream from the LBT), freeing up the LBT shed for organising all the baggage that will have to be transported down to Recherche Bay. Cost (for Tuesday night) is $20.
Posted Jan 26, 2017, 1:11 PM by Posts Editor
Oz Day on the waterFranklin was the place to get on the water on Thursday 26th. ‘Yukon’ was taking out those who wanted the big boat experience, ‘Nancy’ was busying around for those happy with shorter excursions, Kevin Robson and the team were helping the kids who had made paddles try them out in the Grebes, and teams of tourists were being whipped into shape as crews for the Skiffs by David Budd and his cohorts. Thanks to all LBT members who helped to make this day so successful. Pics from Lorrie Harrison
Posted Jan 26, 2017, 1:22 PM by Posts Editor
The lost halyardJeroen, one of the Dutch students building the 16M2 over at the Wooden Boat Centre, is a very handy man to have about when your halyard had parted from your mainsail and is stuck at the top of the mast.
Posted Jan 24, 2017, 2:41 AM by Posts Editor
Guides at the LBTThe Grebes are great little boats for a first taste of being ‘on the water’, as the group of Guides shown in the picture below discovered. They splashed about happily for an hour or so, and at the end of that time were making good progress under oars, and threatened to mutiny when told it was time to come ashore. Pic from Marguerite Porte
Posted Jan 22, 2017, 12:14 PM by Posts Editor
Montagu Whaler funding campaign ended successfully Enough money to complete the restoration of the Montagu Whaler was raised by the ‘Pozible’ campaign: thanks to all who contributed and particularly David Hume who organised it. Whilst ‘Monty’ is now in the water work still goes on preparing the various fittings. Dennis is making a wooden grate.
Posted Jan 22, 2017, 11:31 AM by Posts Editor
Montagu Whaler ‘taking up’The Montagu Whaler went in the water on the high tide on Saturday morning, which happened to be at 4.30 am. Not a popular hour for some, but she slid in most gracefully, and was left, in the time honored tradition of wooden boats, for the wood to ‘take up’ moisture in the shallow waters of the creek. The water that was pouring in has slowed to a trickle, so we are hopeful that the leaks are slowly closing up. In the meantime Peter Laidlaw and Johnno are periodically pumping her out. Pic from Graham Wright
Posted Jan 22, 2017, 3:11 AM by Posts Editor
Wanted: Rowers @ the Australian Wooden Boat FestivalFiona Peate writes:‘Volunteers are invited to crew Tasmania’s oldest boat, Admiral, at the Wooden Boat Festival, taking passengers for a half hour row around the harbour. It’s a great way to get on the water & part of the event. If you can help out for a day, half day, or a few hours please call Michael Bird on 0412 975 675. Experience is not necessary & transport from Huonville is available if required.’
Posted Jan 22, 2017, 2:38 AM by Posts Editor
Cygnet Skiff launchedLorrie Harrison writes: ‘Sunny skies and smiles all around as the second skiff in the Port Cygnet Sailing Club was launched by local Federal member, Julie Collins. This elegant skiff was built in super fast time under the guidance of Cygnet boat builder Jeremy, enabling it to be ready for the St Ayles Skiff International Regatta on 17-19 February. The LBT welcomes, “The Cygnet” as the sixth St Ayles Skiff in Southern Tasmania and the thirteenth in Australia. Congratulations to the Cygnet rowers and Jeremy’ To find out more about Skiffs in Australia, check out the association website sascraa.org . There will be a meeting of this association at the regatta.
Posted Jan 20, 2017, 1:23 PM by Posts Editor
Montagu whaler ready for launchGraham Wright writes: ‘Peter Hill has been on a roll the last couple of weeks as it was he who suggested navy blue on the gunwale and bump strip and a white stripe between for the Montagu WhalerThe result is brilliant and a good compromise with the traditional Atlantic Gray, just look at the photos. In my time this is first joint project with the LBT and WBC and many friendships have been made and Monty is the result.’ Pics from Graham Wright
Posted Jan 19, 2017, 12:20 PM by Posts Editor
Nancy ready for Boat FestivalGraham Wright writes: ‘It’s all about paint, Peter Hill to the rescue: he restored Nancy to her former glory re-painting all the cabin sides and around the windows. A bit of decking oil and she will be ready for the Wooden Boat Festival.’ Pics from Graham Wright
Posted Jan 19, 2017, 12:19 PM by Posts Editor
World Record LBT DinnerTalk about loaves and fishes: Kate can perform miracles of almost biblical proportions. We couldn’t fit in the shed, so the long table was set up out on the lawn. The pic below only captures some of the action: to see the rest you have to view the video (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TQ3_X8qh2Og).
Posted Jan 19, 2017, 12:03 PM by Posts Editor
The oar leather production lineWhilst Martin sews Liz punches. Henry Ford would have been most impressed. They are doing are wonderful job: check out Billie’s oars next time you go for a row in her.
Posted Jan 18, 2017, 2:44 AM by Posts Editor
Working Waterfront NewsThe latest from the Working Waterfront and the Wooden Boat Centre attached: http://bit.ly/2jFcH2i
Posted Jan 18, 2017, 2:21 AM by Posts Editor
New Cygnet SkiffJürgen from Cygnet writes: ‘Thursday, 19 Jan, 1400h (2pm) at PCSC, Lymington Rd will be the one and only official launch of the new skiff THE CYGNET, sister ship to The Swan. Julie Collins will do the honours of launching her. All Franklin rowers, wooden boat lovers and especially the WOW are invited. Speeches will be short and and light refreshments will be available. Hope to see you there.’
Posted Jan 17, 2017, 2:58 AM by Posts Editor
The wind is fresh, the temperature warmWho would be anywhere else but sailing on the Huon River? The Grebes will be being rigged at 3.30pm this (Monday) afternoon. Come down and join the team.
Posted Jan 15, 2017, 1:12 PM by Posts Editor
Australia Day 2017 26th JanuarySee flyer (bit.ly/2jkNbl5) and bus timetables (bit.ly/2jku9vm,bit.ly/2jkyoqQ) attached. Be part of it: join the Living Boat Trust crew at this event. See bit.ly/2jks56v .
Posted Jan 14, 2017, 12:52 PM by Posts Editor
Rigging the SkiffsThe Kiwis reckon their Skiff ‘Wee Tawera‘ ‘sails like a wutch’ and we do too. On the last Return Raid from Hobart to Franklin they hardly had to put an oar in the water. At present the only Skiff on the Raid capable of carrying a sail is ‘Imagine‘. If you are interested in getting any of the other Skiffs rigged contact Martin Riddle: info@tawe-nunnugah.org
Posted Jan 14, 2017, 3:42 AM by Posts Editor
Need to find your land legs? Zainab Clark writes: ‘Di Harris and Zainab Clark would like to organise a monthly(?) bush walk for anyone who is interested. Inviting suggestions for places to go, things to see… can be focus-specific, such as fagus and fungus spotting in the autumn, waterfalls, short or mid-range walks to begin with. Please let us know where your interests lie and we’ll build on from there. Open to everyone and anyone… perhaps you can come once, or occasionally, or every time. This could add a fitness and social interaction layer to the already rich tapestry that is our local community. The sooner we can start the better, so if you want to give your sea legs a break and …
Posted Jan 13, 2017, 12:52 PM by Posts Editor
Battleship grey for ‘Monty’The team are hard at work (well, you can tell from the picture) getting the last coats of paint on, and ‘Monty’ will have an unofficial launch in the next fortnight to give time for the timbers to take up and be ready for the Raid. As far as the colour scheme is concerned, plan is to go with traditional grey, but with white and blue highlights around the rubbing strip and gunnel. To help all this happen make a contribution at http://pozible.com/project/rescue-our-monty . This campaign is going well, but we aren’t there yet.For more pics and information see the project website: our-monty.org. Pics from Graham Wright
Posted Jan 12, 2017, 3:01 PM by Posts Editor
A Most Excellent Raffle… is being held to support the Regatta celebrations. $3,053 in prizes. Tickets are $5 and are available at the Wooden Boat Centre, Franklin Post Office, Woof Gallery and Frank’s Cider. For details see the flyer at bit.ly/2joFRme
Posted Jan 12, 2017, 1:53 PM by Posts Editor
Blue paddleboard going, going …After lengthy debate and a split decision the committee concluded that the obvious heritage value of this paddleboard did not warrant it occupying space at the LBT any longer. If you are the owner thank you for lending it to us but please collect it.
Posted Jan 12, 2017, 2:09 PM by Posts Editor
Pontoon FloatsWe are still seeking big black plastic floats of the style shown in the pic below so that we can complete our second pontoon. If you know where we can obtain some please contact the secretary: sec@lbt.org.au .
Posted Jan 12, 2017, 3:39 AM by Posts Editor
LBT boats are working boatsMick Griggs demonstrates in the picture below: he is fixing a fender on the new pontoon.
Posted Jan 10, 2017, 7:08 PM by Posts Editor
Farewell for the Walduck’s, Monday Jan 23rdSee flyer below: http://bit.ly/2jgNBqg . This event will replace the normal Monday dinner. RSVP to Wendy Brown: wfbfranklin@gmail.com.
Posted Jan 12, 2017, 3:14 PM by Posts Editor
‘Gracie’ for saleIain Oughtred designed “Tammie Norrie” (Grebe). 4.0M (13’6″) X 1.2M (4′). 7mm Hoop Pine marine plywood and Celery Top pine, epoxy bonded. Oregon mast, gaff and boom. Built in Tasmania by John Walduck, 2002/3. Rigged for easy single handed sailing. Red sails. Oars. 5 buoyancy bags. Dunbier trailer with spare wheel – registered to Nov 2017. MAKE AN OFFER. Must be sold by end of January 2017. CONTACT JOHN WALDUCK 0428 555 811 OR 03 6266 3806
Posted Jan 10, 2017, 6:40 PM by Posts Editor
LBT Australia Day 26th Jan: be part of itThe LBT had a great Australia Day last year, helping kids (of all ages) make paddles, and then taking them out on the water in Grebes (and Skiffs) – see the pics below. We want to do it all again, but we some members to participate. If you can help out please leave your details on the form below so that we can contact you.
Posted Jan 10, 2017, 2:03 PM by Posts Editor
Rowing with Taroona, Sunday 22nd JanuaryInvitation to all LBT rowers. Taroona has invited us to join them for a row along the beautiful AlumCliffs on Sunday 22 January, leaving Taroona beach at 10am. The direction and length of the row will depend on weather conditionson the day. On our return to the beach Taroona are inviting us to stayfor a BBQ lunch. If you think this sounds like a great day out please contact Lorrie: w.lharrison@bigpond.com or 0410 335 809 We are also looking for two people willing to tow our boats up andback. This is our first joint row with Taroona, so we hope to fill our twoskiffs with happy rowers and have a great day …
Posted Jan 9, 2017, 12:50 PM by Posts Editor
First Dinghy sailing session for 2017Mike Dredge tells us it is ON: come down to the LBT pontoon this Monday afternoon (the 9th) at around 3.30pm.
Posted Jan 8, 2017, 1:44 PM by Posts Editor
A forecast is just a forecastThe blue line in the graphic below shows predicted wind speed at Dover for Sunday: up to 15 knots fresh. The black line shows actual: in the evening hovering around 30 to 35 knots. Cop that on the nose and you know you are alive, and things become very interesting indeed very quickly if mistakes are made or equipment fails.
Posted Jan 8, 2017, 1:35 PM by Posts Editor
Wanted: BBQ mechanicAfter year’s of uncomplaining service the LBT barbecues are in need of a bit of tender loving care and attention. Anybody with a some expertise and a bit of time to devote to this task please give us a call: sec@lbt.org.au
Posted Jan 5, 2017, 2:03 PM by Posts Editor
Barefoot Bowls at Franklin Bowling ClubSeason opener from 5pm Friday 13th January (propitious!). See flyer below for details: http://bit.ly/2iE0Ymu
Posted Jan 5, 2017, 1:57 AM by Posts Editor
The fender gangThe pontoon was on the move again on Wednesday, down to the rowing ways for fenders to be fitted. We need some sort of ‘Huon Blues’ as a work song for such activities.
Posted Jan 4, 2017, 4:15 AM by Posts Editor
Oars for the WhalerThe oars had gone to Taroona so they had something to row their Skiff with, but aren’t required now that they have purchased something more suitable. Thanks for bringing them over Damien!
Posted Jan 4, 2017, 3:50 AM by Posts Editor
16M2 has been turnedThose who have been following the progress of the ‘Dutch’ boat over at the Wooden Boat Centre will be interested to know that a significant milestone has been reached: she has been turned. Which of course means yet more sanding. The building technique used has the structure for the boat’s decks already in place.
Posted Jan 3, 2017, 12:57 PM by Posts Editor
Back to the LBTMany of us are still in holiday mode, but Dave Pittaway has been rounding up the troops to fit fenders on with the pontoon this Wednesday morning, and the Tuesday group have beaten him to it: they have already started back. Just as well: Nancy needs some care and attention before she goes to the Wooden Boat Festival, and Peter (the Painter) is just the man to apply it. First Monday night dinner is next week: 9th January.
Posted Jan 3, 2017, 12:31 PM by Posts Editor
Yet more entertainment in FranklinHow can they squeeze it in? It’s a mystery, but David Moore writes to tell us that he is a host for a comedy show at Frank’s Cider Bar & Cafe, 7pm Thurs 19th Jan 2017. See the attached flyer for details: http://bit.ly/2iwlfKU
Posted Jan 3, 2017, 12:08 PM by Posts Editor
Another Ozzie Whaler?We have been conjecturing that when our Montagu Whaler is complete it might be the only one on the water in Australia, but then Peter McGee sent us this picture from the 2016 Sydney Wooden Boat Festival. Seems ‘our Monty’ might have a sister. We shall have to investigate further.
Posted Jan 1, 2017, 4:27 AM by Posts Editor
New hull at the Wooden Boat CentreAs can be seen from the pictures below Bert and his team of young Dutch boat builders have been making good progress on their 16M2 sailing dinghy. The hull planking has been completed and faired and the transom has been installed. Several of coats of a epoxy has been applied. There has even been time to take a break, with a camping trip to Bruny Island. For more details see Bert’s blog: https://tasmanian16m2.wordpress.com/2016/12/12/the-continuing-story-the-build Pics from Ea
Posted Jan 1, 2017, 2:04 AM by Posts Editor
Christmas PicsZainab Clarke sent us these – looks like a lot of fun.
Posted Dec 30, 2016, 1:42 PM by Posts Editor
Whaler gets turnedA major milestone for the Montagu Whaler has been reached. With work on the ‘bottomsides’ largely complete she was turned so that details inside the hull could be attended to. For more pics see the Monty Work Blog: https://goo.gl/GhDx1X The crowd funding campaign for the ‘Monty’ is going well, but we need to keep it going. Please consider contributing at http://pozible.com/project/rescue-our-monty
Posted Dec 29, 2016, 2:15 PM by Posts Editor
Help for Di HarrisDi Harris writes:‘I’m looking for help to remain able to go sculling at the Huon Rowing Club but my spacial and navigational skills are deteriorating. This, plus the fact that I am not fast enough to keep up with Tim Brown’s coaching mob of young racers makes it difficult for him to keep an eye on where I am as well as do his primary role of coaching the youngsters who will be competing for their schools. So I am looking for anyone who will accompany me with a tinny (Club boat) and help me get around without getting in the way of other rowers or getting stuck in the rushes. I hope that there might be …
Posted Dec 30, 2016, 12:49 PM by Posts Editor
Whaler Race (1925)The LBT has yet to experience the five oar configuration of the Montagu Whaler, but the sailors in this video (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-BUSO1Q5dvY) seem to be getting along with it ok. Thanks to Caroline from Quokka Marine (sailmakers) for this. For those who haven’t seen them, Caroline also point out the later classic Navy Training videos featuring Montagu Whalers: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wYF5hmWI8CA; https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bVnPL0Aa2os; https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nHi_OPt9zzM. Our crowdfunding campaign to fund the completion of the restoration of our whaler is going well, but we aren’t there yet. Please contribute at pozible.com/project/rescue-our-monty
Posted Dec 26, 2016, 12:53 PM by Posts Editor
Horse and Wood at the Palais, January 10Martin and Deb VanRiddle write: ‘Our friends Bukhu and John, who together are the Mongolian-Middle Eastern fusion ‘Horse and Wood’, are playing at the Palais again on 10 January 2017. … Take a night off from cooking and buy something delicious from Kate Hoorweg, with food available before the concert (7-8pm). Drinks will also be available with any profit from the bar going to the Friends of St John appeal to buy the St Johns Church in Franklin as a community asset.’ Ticket’s are $20. See flyer below (https://goo.gl/h6y9sP)
Posted Dec 26, 2016, 2:56 AM by Posts Editor
Classic Movie at the Palais, January 1st From Deb and the Classic Movie Team. “Women on the 6th Floor”. Synopsis: Paris, 1960. Jean-Louis lives a bourgeois existence absorbed in his work, cohabitating peacefully with his neurotic and impossibly thin socialite wife Suzanne, while their ghastly children are away at boarding school. The couple’s world is turned upside-down when they hire a gorgeous Spanish maid Maria.Through Maria, Jean-Louis is introduced to an alternative reality just a few floors up on the building’s sixth floor, the servants’ quarters… (Courtesy Rotten Tomatoes). Price: $5 Doors open 6.30pm, film starts when someone flicks the lights. After7.15pm but before 7.30pm. Yes, it is that simple. Bar will be running with reasonably priced quality …
Posted Dec 26, 2016, 2:36 AM by Posts Editor
Art Exhibition: ‘Messing about in Boats’Pam Mann from Huon Yacht Club writes:Please find attached your invitation (https://goo.gl/LLVzQ7) to the opening of “MESSING ABOUT IN BOATS Images that linger in the mind” an art exhibition by FIONA DOWLER and PAM MANN. Please also feel free to bring guests.https://goo.gl/LLVzQ7Venue: DERWENT SAILING SQUADRON Artwall, 23 Marieville Esplanade, Sandy Bay, TasmaniaOpening: Thursday, 12 January 2017 at 5:30 PM by former Premier, Lara GiddingsExhibition Dates: 9th January to 15th February Mon – Wed 9 am – 5 pm Thurs – Fri 9 am to late (lunch and dinner available)Looking forward to seeing you there, FIONA and PAM
Posted Dec 26, 2016, 2:02 AM by Posts Editor
Australian Wooden Boat Festival preview programThe dates and times aren’t necessarily accurate but there is a LOT about what we can expect: view the program at https://goo.gl/EgQezF Big and glossy enough to print out and give away for Christmas.
Posted Dec 22, 2016, 12:08 AM by Posts Editor
MMT opens new exhibition: WAR AT SEA – THE NAVY IN WW1John Wadsley writes: ‘Just in time for Christmas!! After some very busy days over the past two weeks, we are very pleased to announce our latest exhibition, “War at Sea – the Navy in WW1” is open for business. This major travelling exhibition from the Australian National Maritime Museum has been installed in the newly repainted and refurbished Carnegie Gallery at the Maritime Museum of Tasmania in Argyle Street. This is a great venue and it looks even more fabulous now. We have been flat out the past few days bumping in the displays. It took some herculean efforts from our trusty volunteers to manoeuvre the cases and boxes from the trucks inside and up to the Carnegie gallery. Staff from …
Posted Dec 22, 2016, 12:09 AM by Posts Editor
News from Maritime Centre (Devonport)If you are traveling through Devonport the Bass Strait Maritime Centre at the river mouth across from the ferry terminal is well worth a visit. See their newsletter attached: goo.gl/w6VD2J
Posted Dec 20, 2016, 11:01 PM by Posts Editor
Pontoon fun morning: Wednesday (21st)David Pittaway and a small team have selfishly been hogging all the enjoyment of pontoon building over at the evaporator sheds, but have grudgingly conceded that they need a larger workforce to first get the pontoon to the rowing ways and then get the fenders on. Here is your chance: show up with your union ticket in hand at 9.30am and hope to get selected.
Posted Dec 19, 2016, 11:17 AM by Posts Editor
Warrnambool Regatta, 5th March 2017One to put in the diary. Those of us who attended the regatta on the Hopkins River at Warrnambool a year or so ago can vouch for what a great event we can expect to have with our friends in Victoria. Warrnambool is a wooden boat ‘hot spot’.
Posted Dec 18, 2016, 11:24 AM by Posts Editor
Cutters on the BalticFriends of the LBT Georg and Johanna, who stayed at the shed a few years ago as woofers, send Christmas greetings from their hometown Wismar in northern Germany, and some pictures of Georg competing in a cutter rowing regatta. Their boat is now out of the water for winter because of the risk of damage if the harbor freezes over (it has been -10 degrees). Puts our winter grizzles into perspective.
Posted Dec 18, 2016, 1:09 AM by Posts Editor
Gloriana Can’t Make it to the Huon River Parade of BoatsSadly, we have just heard from Buckingham Palace that they can’t send Gloriana, the Queen’s rowboat, to be part of the opening event of the St Ayles Skiff Regatta in February next year. Apparently, the trailer’s rego has just run out.However, the good news is that all types of classic and character boats, from coracles and canoes to steamboats and skiffs, are fighting to take part in our Skiff Regatta Parade of Boats, from Huonville to Franklin. If you want to be piped down the river by the Derwent Scottish Pipe Band, now is the time to put bums on thwarts, as you might say. Send an email to ozskiff@gmail.comregistering your boat to …
Posted Dec 16, 2016, 10:41 PM by Posts Editor
1200 km tawe nunnugahThose who get to the end of tawe nunnagah and feel it is just a warm up could consider this: 1200 km up the west coast of Canada through the inside passage to Alaska, rowing and sailing. To find out more view the video at Off Center Harbor: http://bit.ly/2gKavUB or go to the event website http://r2ak.com/ You have to be joking.
Posted Dec 16, 2016, 2:04 PM by Posts Editor
Montagu Whaler on scheduleThe antifoul went on on Friday morning, and we will turn the boat early next week so that more work on the interior can be done. Follow progress on the ‘monty blog’: http://bit.ly/2hMvXNs
Posted Dec 15, 2016, 8:10 PM by Posts Editor
Vale Murray ShandMurray, a member of the Tuesday group, passed away on Thursday. We will miss him and our thoughts are with his family.
Posted Dec 15, 2016, 3:07 PM by Posts Editor
Follow the build of the 16M2Back in 1920’s Holland a new tax was put in place for boats with a sail area greater than 16 square metres, so naturally a class which just fitted under this limitation was designed. It became what is still the most popular Dutch sailing dinghy (more than 20,000 built). It is one of these which is being constructed by our Dutch visitors over in the Wooden Boat Centre: follow the build at http://bit.ly/2hGa8zp .
Posted Dec 14, 2016, 12:51 PM by Posts Editor
Syrah back on the waterHans Sipsma has put a lot of work into getting Syrah ready for the season, and Jesse and Matt were very happy with the result.
Posted Dec 13, 2016, 5:10 AM by Posts Editor
Grebe takes a diveIt was all part of our capsize drill on Monday.
Posted Dec 13, 2016, 5:07 AM by Posts Editor
New gadget in the fuel lockerIt’s a bilge pump donated by Mike Dredge: gets water out of a flooded Grebe or Skiff double quick.Thanks Mike!
Posted Dec 13, 2016, 4:49 AM by Posts Editor
Severe Weather Warning for Tuesday evening, Wednesday morningFrom BOM:‘A trough currently lies over Tasmania, with a cold front expected just west of the state tonight as a deep low moves to the southwest. These features, combined with a slow moving high over the Tasman Sea, are bringing very strong northwesterly winds aloft over Tasmania, which are mixing to the surface in waves. The low will continue deepening as it passes just south of Tasmania early Wednesday, easing the winds about the north while further increasing them about the south. DAMAGING WINDS, averaging 50 to 60 km/h with peak gusts in excess of 100 km/h are possible about Bass Strait, the far northeast, the central north coast and the south. Winds are expected to ease …
Posted Dec 12, 2016, 10:08 PM by Posts Editor
Christmas in FranklinIf your girth needs thickening Franklin is the place to be at this time of year. Three events of particular note for LBTers are: the Franklin parade and party, on the village green (foreshore), event starting 5pm Saturday 17th December, details at the Post Office; the Living Boat Trust party, Monday evening, 6pm, 19th December, bring your own everything – a plate to share, meat to BBQ, drink; the Orphans Christmas Day at the shed.The first of these events was great fun last year and LBT boats will again be participating, the second speaks for itself, and for more about the third see the flyer below (http://bit.ly/2hmCfjO). (Pic from Annette Cauchi)
Posted Dec 11, 2016, 1:07 PM by Posts Editor
Monday night dinners over the holiday seasonKate Hoorweg writes: Monday 12th Dec = dinner as usual; Monday 19th LBT BYO Christmas Party – bring a plate to celebrate!! Monday 26th = NO DINNER! Monday 2nd Jan = NO DINNER! Monday 7th = dinner as usual for the new year! Kate also reports that four new cooks have offered their services, which is great news.
Posted Dec 11, 2016, 3:28 AM by Richard Forster
Heritage Bricks (approx 500) – Palais Theatre seeking offersThe PalaisTheatre is seeking offers from any party interested in purchasing one lot of approximately500 used heritage bricks.For moreinformation, or viewing, contact Barb 0408 212495Bids must bereceived by 5pm Friday 16 December 2016, either – in a sealed envelope, and posted to PalaisTheatre, PO Box 227, Franklin OR – by email to franklin.palais@gmail.comThe winningbidder will be notified on Monday 19 December, and must agree to remove thebricks by Friday 30 December 2016. The Palais Management Committee doesnot undertake to accept the highest or any bid if a reasonable sum is notoffered.
Posted Dec 10, 2016, 4:17 PM by Posts Editor
First Aid Course in JanuaryWe are looking to put on a First Aid course in January, particularly with Tawe Nunnugah in mind. There may be some subsidy of this, but chances are it will be user pays – probably in the order of $195. If you are interested in participating submit your name and contact details through the form below or at http://bit.ly/2gkUeoS. Once we have an idea of numbers an announcement will be made.
Posted Dec 17, 2016, 6:28 PM by Posts Editor
Navigation Hazard, Helms BayMAST writes (9/12/16): ‘Mariners are advised a 7.5m yacht has sunk on its mooring at Helms Bay. Mariners should navigate with caution in the area.’
Posted Dec 9, 2016, 9:41 PM by Posts Editor
The St Ayles Skiff connectionSkiffy Topher Dawson from Ullapool in Scotland writes: ‘By coincidence a friend posted these photos on Facebook today. They are of a boat [Sgorr na Craig] I built at Lunawanna on Bruny Island for a friend Alan Bush, out of Huon pine, to an old Scottish design, in 1983. My son saw it in a garden on the SE coast of Tassie about 2 years ago so it’s probably still around. It was 20ft long and 8ft 3 inches wide, but a lovely shape! It could carry a good load too. In the first picture I’m at the helm and in the second, Alan’s son Ewan is. Alan is the guy with the beard.’ He would be …
Posted Dec 8, 2016, 3:16 PM by Posts Editor
Post/Christmas cards from Bob FrostBob has very kindly donated a large number of cards featuring his photographs of the Huon Valley – see below for some samples (there are more). Ideal for sending messages to people you want to make jealous of where you live – particularly at Christmas time. $2 each or $6 for a pack of 4. Thanks Bob.
Posted Dec 8, 2016, 12:08 PM by Posts Editor
Navigation Hazard – Port HuonMAST writes: ‘Mariners are advised that the sunken vessel Dooen in Hospital Bay in position 43⁰ 09.530’ S / 146⁰ 58.357’ E is now marked with an orange buoy. Mariners should navigate with caution in the area.’
Posted Dec 7, 2016, 8:07 PM by Richard Forster
Crowd funding for the Montagu Whaler goes liveWe REALLY want the Montagu Whaler to be ready for the Raid, and Johnno and volunteers from the LBT and Wooden Boat Centre have been working hard to get it over the line. All of this costs money, and David Hume has organised a crowd funding campaign for us. Find it at pozible.com/project/rescue-our-monty . Please participate and spread the word. If we succeed in this project we will have what is almost certainly the last working Whaler in Australia – a very significant part of Australia’s maritime heritage, and we can sail and row it!To read more about the boat see it’s webpage: http://bit.ly/2gcoG4l
Posted Dec 7, 2016, 2:46 PM by Richard Forster
A song from Bernie BruenThe best pleasures are often the unexpected ones. Local musician Sandy Pollard has recorded a fantastic version of ‘The Lament of the Montagu Whaler’ for us (more of which anon) and in hunting down the copyright for the song we made the acquaintance of the author, Commander Bernie Bruen, RN. Bernie is an old sea dog of the first water, and a published author, poet and musician to boot. He sent us some of his boat photos, see below, and a collection of his songs is in the mail. If your computer is working correctly and your speakers are on, by clicking on the sound gadget immediately below you should be able to listen to his version of the ‘Lament …
Posted Dec 8, 2016, 12:12 PM by Posts Editor
Capsize MondayPinkies dipped in the river are no longer giving pain, the BOM forecast has been consulted, and Monday is looking like a good afternoon to discover what happens when our Grebes and Skiffs suddenly become water receptacles. Time for the dreaded capsize drill. It’s important: there is no shame in flipping a dinghy or ending up in the drink, it is being able to recover that counts. John Walduck writes:‘Monday is the appointed day for our CAPSIZE DRILL. Some of the St Ayle’s skiffers who are going on Tawe Nunnagah will also be testing their skills. According to MetEye, we can expect about 24C air temp, and a light southerly breeze, increasing slightly towards 5.00pm (sea …
Posted Dec 11, 2016, 3:34 AM by Richard Forster
Undercoat goes on the ‘Monty’After weeks of patching and filling and sanding by the team lead by Johnno, an exciting day yesterday: first outside undercoat went on. There is still debate about what colour it should end up: one school says stick to some variation of traditional battleship grey.
Posted Dec 6, 2016, 12:19 PM by Posts Editor
Dreaming Tawe NunnugahAs we approach Tawe Nunnugah season we need something to get us in the right mood: Martin Kell’s video is a good way to do it – see https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=J2-aMMFC82A&t=354s or click below.
Posted Dec 6, 2016, 3:33 AM by Posts Editor
Imagine SailingPutting sailing rigs in the St Ayles Skiffs has been the topic of much ‘lively discussion’ recently. Iain Oughtred has designed an ‘official’ one, but the Kiwis, who have the best experience, are suggesting twin Optimist rigs because they will stow more easily in what is still essentially a rowing boat. Oblivious to all this a crew were happily sailing ‘Imagine’ with its own (loose footed, balanced lug?) sail yesterday evening. They say it goes quite well.
Posted Dec 5, 2016, 4:00 PM by Posts Editor
Amnesty Film at Cygnet: SpearZainab Clark writes: To celebrate International Human Rights Day Amnesty’s Southern Action Group has partnered with Cygnet Arts council to bring you a special screening of Stephen Page’s outstanding film SPEAR. A visually arresting film, SPEAR tells a contemporary Aboriginal story through movement and dance. It follow a young Aboriginal man, Djali, as he journeys form the outback to the streets of Sydney to understand what it means to be a man with ancient traditions in a modern world. The event is being held in support of Amnesty International Australia’s Community is Everything campaign. This campaign aims to end the inequality faced by young Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders in the justice system. Event details: When: 7 …
Posted Dec 5, 2016, 2:40 PM by Posts Editor
Dutchies on the waterThe visiting Dutch boat building team were invited to join Monday evening sailing, and leapt at the opportunity. Fortunately ‘give way to starboard’ seems to be international: we didn’t have to swap sides of the river.
Posted Dec 5, 2016, 11:48 AM by Posts Editor
A load of wood (and Saint Nicholas)Dave Golding delivered a load of Celery Pine from his mill to the Wooden Boat Centre for the Dutch boat. Saint Nick (‘Sinterklaas’) was a surprise passenger for ‘Dutch Christmas’.
Posted Dec 5, 2016, 12:28 PM by Posts Editor
International season beginsThere will be many overseas visitors to the LBT over summer, particularly for the Skiff Regatta in February. On Monday we officially welcomed the Dutch team who have come to build a boat at the Wooden Boat Centre under the auspices of the Australian Wooden Boat Festival. See the media release attached: http://bit.ly/2g7PUci
Posted Dec 7, 2016, 1:07 PM by Posts Editor
Dinghy sailing: Monday afternoonJohn Walduck writes: “MetEye is predicting about 12 knots westerly this afternoon, which will be OK, but quite turbulent on the river. Mike is away today, but I’m up for it. I would like to have a short classroom session before going out, just to confirm things learned already, and to discuss “gybes” which we haven’t done yet. Start time will be 3.30 as usual.” Mike Dredge tenders his apologies: ‘Bit of a challenge for me I’m afraid. I’m currently sitting on my bottom in a Noumea hotel, writing up a summary of a scallop survey I’ve been looking after for the past week and a half. Photographic proof attached. I’m supposed to …
Posted Dec 4, 2016, 1:46 PM by Posts Editor
Working Waterfront December NewsletterSee attached: http://bit.ly/2gmolNn . Items include Christmas party, Wooden Boat Centre course guide (http://bit.ly/2gmnooz) etc, etc.
Posted Dec 3, 2016, 2:49 PM by Posts Editor
Rowers WantedLorrie Harrison writes: ROWERS WANTED for longer rows in preparation for Tn17. Tuesday and Thursday morning. Contact Penny – currybowran@bigpond.com Lorrie – w.lharrison@bigpond.com
Posted Dec 4, 2016, 1:47 PM by Posts Editor
Calling all LBT paddlers!Alec Young, Vice President, Royal Hobart Regatta Association writes: ‘Dear Paddler, You will recall how you were part of the 2013 Guinness World Record Breaking event, organised by the Royal Hobart Regatta Association; the simultaneously launching of the greatest number of canoes and kayaks. Well, the Americans have subsequently broken our record and I am inviting you and your friends and acquaintances to help us take back the record on Saturday 11 February. If you have a craft that takes more than one person please be aware that the craft will only be counted by the adjudicators if has just one occupant. The rules are clear, only one occupant per craft. To register please go to http://www.royalhobartregatta.com …
Posted Dec 3, 2016, 2:10 AM by Posts Editor
Rowing Regatta, Huon River, December 3rdMessage from MAST: A Rowing Regatta will be held on the Huon River at Franklin on Saturday, 3 December 2016. Mariners are advised the river will be closed for other boating pursuits from 0800 to 1630. Boat owners are restricted from using the boat ramp at Franklin and from entering the rowing restricted area during these times. The restricted area is the course and 500 metres either side of the course. The course is 1000m upstream from the Huon Rowing Club and 500m downstream. Boat owners must follow directions of rowing officials. A public boat ramp is available at Shipwrights Point south of Franklin.
Posted Dec 1, 2016, 1:45 PM by Posts Editor
D (for Drain) day at the ShedIn an incautious moment Michael McGrath offered the LBT use of his backhoe/digger (and himself), and we leapt at the opportunity to get some decent drainage put in around the shed. Every winter water from the slope to the highway seeps under the front wall. On Thursday morning the ground was broken, and by that afternoon a sock drain had been laid, backfilled with gravel and cleaned up from the main doors and along the verandah to the river path. Job half done. Huge thanks to Michael and also to the Thursday crew.
Posted Dec 4, 2016, 1:49 PM by Posts Editor
Painting seasonWarm spring weather is an opportunity to get done those jobs put off during the winter months, and yesterday Martin Kell was up the mast to apply a coat of paint. That’s Kevin Robson’s newly acquired ‘Thistle’ in the foreground of the pic below, in case anyone is wondering.
Posted Dec 1, 2016, 1:18 PM by Posts Editor
Will’s ShedIn recent times one of the many pleasures of a row on the river has been watching the progress being made on Will Hallinan’s new shed over on the Woodstock bank. On Thursday some of us had the opportunity to get up close and personal with said shed, helping the builder (fellow LBTer Piet Lundstedt) and Andrew Gill’s team of concreters lay the floor slab.
Posted Dec 1, 2016, 1:06 PM by Posts Editor
Bay Pilot project: free to a good homeAnne Holst writes: ‘The popular Arch Davis designed Bay Pilot frame has been constructed and is ready to be planked and finished by a handyman/boatbuilder. We have a full set of instructions that includes materials lists and construction specifications. The boat is of plywood construction but could also be planked. Itis able to be built as a cabin cruiser or centre console design. There are approximately $7000 worth of materials required (for plywood construction) to complete the build ready for motor install, steerage etc.’ For the gumtree ad see http://bit.ly/2geApDs . And for what you will hopefully end up with see http://bit.ly/2geyaja
Posted Nov 29, 2016, 4:59 AM by Posts Editor
Classic movies night, December 4thDeb and the classic movies team write:To kick start the Christmas festivities we are screening the 2013 Mexican box office smash hit, The Noble Family. Warning: The Noble Family is sub-titled, so pack your glasses. Synopsis: Three spoiled children who are cut off from their family fortune and forced to do the unthinkable – get a job. (Courtesy IMDb). The Noble Family is rated M (for some sexual content and coarse language). 5 reasons why you should head on down to the Franklin Palais Sunday 4 December 2016: Rotten Tomatoes rates this film 4+ Stars. Unbelievable but it is true!!!!!! : The Noble Familyis Mexico’s biggest ever box-office comedy success! : Don’t believe me …
Posted Nov 27, 2016, 1:28 PM by Posts Editor
Pictures from the launch of ‘Freyja’Amidst general rejoicing the latest St Ayles Skiff was launched at Franklin on Sunday. Congratulations to the Bittern team and all who have contributed. For more pictures see http://bit.ly/2g7xagO and http://bit.ly/2g7Jttt (Thanks to Bob Frost for pics)
Posted Nov 27, 2016, 12:35 PM by Posts Editor
Some pictures and report from the Swiftsure Regatta Lorrie Harrison writes:‘In typical LBT style members arrived on mass willing to help and willing to create an inclusive fabulous day. Huge thank you to everyone who coordinated – Adrian, Penny, Jane, Peter, food from Jilly and team, safety boat lead by Richard. Results of races: Roger Harwood- John Young and David Nash both in 46min 10 seconds; The Swiftsure – Cygnet team, second crew out 22 min 44 sec; The Rat Race- David Budd and Barbara Dawson; Skiff racesWomen’s event – Castle Forbes Bay in Chiton in 6m 33 secMen’s- Huon Five O in Imagine in 6m.20 secMixed – Huon Five O in Billie in 6m 49 sec. Naturally, the highlight was the launch of a …
Posted Nov 27, 2016, 6:52 PM by Posts Editor
The big cleanupGraham Wright sent these pictures of the shed after a major housekeeping day.
Posted Nov 27, 2016, 3:09 AM by Posts Editor
White Ribbon DayThe LBT verandah, with its cafe blinds down, was an ideal place to hold a morning teas to recognise the campaign to prevent violence against women.
Posted Nov 25, 2016, 4:13 PM by Posts Editor
Final Reminder: Swiftsure Regatta tomorrow, Sunday 27thStarting at 9.30am, be there or be square. See the program: http://bit.ly/2eIjWHT . Be part of the launch of the new St Ayles Skiff at 12 noon.
Posted Nov 25, 2016, 3:26 PM by Posts Editor
Talking tall ships, 6th DecemberJohn Wadsley from the Maritime Museum writes: ‘For the December talk we have Mickey Benefiel talking on “Searching for the Tall Ships of 1988”. This will be an intriguing presentation. The flyer is attached for your information. Mickey is a well-known local maritime buff and presenter of previous MMT talks. He is always eloquent and entertaining (even if he has a funny accent!). So put the date in your calendar and come along.’ Time: 12.00-1.00pm, Tuesday 6 December 2016. Place: Royal Society Room, Tasmanian Museum and Art Gallery, Customs House, 19 Davey St entrance.For more details see the attached flyer: http://bit.ly/2f4cdnW
Posted Nov 22, 2016, 2:22 PM by Posts Editor
Steamboats Ahoy!!It was wall-to-wall wood on the water last Sunday, as a flotilla of steamboats, skiffs, piners punts, kayaks and an Adirondack Guideboat cruised up to Huonville. What a spectacle!!! Let’s do it again…… More pics from Nell Tyson.
Posted Nov 22, 2016, 3:36 PM by Posts Editor
Calling all LBT hipsters….It’s well known that LBT members are the coolest dudes in the Valley. So don’t miss out on the Blues coming to Franklin this Friday. Mike Erlington is playing at the Palais Theatre, Friday 25 Nov, doors open 6.30pm, entry only $15“an eclectic passionate mix of acoustic blues, rock & folk. This man plays and sings like a wildfire” Las Vegas Weekly, USA
Posted Nov 20, 2016, 8:36 PM by Posts Editor
Bring your own food this Monday nightAll the cooks are elsewhere this Monday night, so it’s a ‘social night’. Barbecues are available and bring some salad to share.
Posted Nov 19, 2016, 9:56 PM by Posts Editor
Invitation to Skiff Launch, 27th NovemberWhere: The Living Boat Trust, 3337 Huon Hwy, Franklin; Date: Sunday 27th November 2016; Time: 12.00pm. This boat, commissioned and built by ‘The Bitterns’, will the third in the Living Boat Trust fleet of Skiffs. Come and join us at the Swiftsure Regatta as we race these and other boats, and help celebrate this latest beauty. Refreshments will be available. (Launch of ‘Billie’, 2015 – Pic Bob Hawkins)
Posted Nov 18, 2016, 1:54 PM by Posts Editor
Can you help save the LBT money by lending equipment for the tn17 Raid?To save the Living Boat Trust the cost of hiring or buying some of the equipment necessary to support the tn17 expeditions we are putting the call out to all LBT members to see if we can borrow the following items: 1. Generators – preferably quiet ones that will not spoil the tranquillity of the lovely camp sites we are visiting. 2. Large eskies or even portable refrigerators – we have the food trailer but we need to separate drinks from the food so we don’t risk food poisoning through repeated opening of the food storage fridge to get another drink. 3. Large 1000 litre/1m3 water container (see below) – to save the sore backs that we’ve risked in the …
Posted Nov 17, 2016, 7:45 PM by Posts Editor
Dinghy sailing off for two weeksMike Dredge writes: ‘Both John and I will be unavailable to oversee the Monday evening sailing program for a couple of weeks, for widely varying reasons. John is allowing a couple of surgeons to play with some scrap metal in his leg while I am playing with some scallops in New Caledonia. John is available from about Monday 5, I’m back for Monday 12. Up to John and Richard if they want to go ahead on the 5th, but we still have to do the ‘must-do’ capsize drill, when I think it would be best to have two support boats available. Provided the water warms up a bit, let’s plan this for the 12th.’
Posted Nov 17, 2016, 12:21 PM by Posts Editor
Reminder: Steam boat rally this coming SundayThe weather is looking fair for this Sunday, and if it anything like last year it should be a lot of fun. Departure from the LBT (for Huonville) is at 10.30am, so assemble well before then to organise boats and teams. For more details see the previous post by the organiser, Andrew Perkins: http://bit.ly/2eIeC7y
Posted Nov 16, 2016, 8:58 PM by Posts Editor
No violence at the LBTKaren Corbin writes:‘Friday the 25th November is the UN International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women. In Australia we generally know this day as ‘White Ribbon Day’. It is a day when we can all say No to Violence Against Women and show our support by wearing a white ribbon badge. White Ribbon badges will be available at no cost at the LBT and a light morning tea offered after the usual social row at 9.30am. All welcome.’
Posted Nov 16, 2016, 5:14 PM by Posts Editor
Huon Yacht Club Race Officers CourseBev Pickering writes:‘There is to be an Australia Sailing Race Officers Course (Club Level) at HYC clubhouse on December 10th 2016, 9.00am-3.30pm. This will be the first such course at this level to be held in Tasmania. There is no charge for this course. That’s right. It is Free!! The Management Committee encourages all interested people to attend. It will be in the interest of Skippers and Crew Members to participate, or to sit in on this session. You will learn more about starting races as well as race control and the Racing Rules of Sailing. And, also Race Officials’ responsibilities. For a course description see http://bit.ly/2eFchKu and the entry form at …
Posted Nov 16, 2016, 4:01 AM by Posts Editor
MAST Flare Demonstration at the Huon Yacht Club 23 NovemberStan Pickering writes: ‘MAST will be holding a Flare Demonstration Night at the Huon Yacht Club on 23 November at 5.30pm. Geeveston Fire Brigade, Volunteer Coast Rescue Kingston and Franklin Marine will also attend and make presentations. We will follow this colourfull and informative evening with a sausage sizzle. I would like to invivte all interested members and friends to attend and bring along any expired flares. Looking forward to seeing you all there and don’t forget your sunglasses!’ Pic from Sea Rescue
Posted Nov 16, 2016, 4:03 AM by Posts Editor
Super moon low tideLaurence Burgin took this picture of ‘Billie’ high and dry when somebody pulled the plug out.
Posted Nov 16, 2016, 3:17 AM by Posts Editor
World’s first marine men’s shedGiven that we are a ‘community’ shed we decided to let this bold claim go through to the keeper when the person making it for his Western Australian shed came to visit. He is Terry from Fremantle, and a nice bloke too. They are just getting going: their website is www.firstmarine.org . As we understand it their initial activities will be centered around the very nice looking pilot boat pictured below. It will be interesting to follow their progress.
Posted Nov 15, 2016, 7:28 PM by Posts Editor
Dinghy sailing is on, Monday 14th NovLooks like the clouds are rolling back and the wind is a benign breeze. Start rigging the Grebes from 3pm.
Posted Nov 13, 2016, 1:25 PM by Posts Editor
Familiar faces in unfamilar placesSandra and Kevin Robson showing off in their boat on a sunny Fremantle harbor. Just as well Kevin had his undies on or he might have shown off more than he intended. Pic from Shane Johnson
Posted Nov 13, 2016, 12:40 PM by Posts Editor
Sails for the Montagu WhalerNo sooner had Martin Riddle organised quotes from the sailmaker than Graeme Hunt from the Wooden Boat Guild dropped in a mizzen sail and spars, plus a sprit yard and a boom tent. Thanks Graham! They look great. If anybody has a spare main tucked away in a locker don’t be shy: let us know.
Posted Nov 13, 2016, 11:40 AM by Posts Editor
Reminder: meeting Monday nightThere will be an informal members meeting preceding dinner on Monday 14th of November at 6pm to discuss issues currently before the committee. The draft agenda can be viewed at http://bit.ly/2f5gl2L. Minutes of the last committee meeting are available at http://bit.ly/2edzDqk . Minutes are always available on the website under the ‘Resources’ tab.
Posted Nov 13, 2016, 4:17 AM by Posts Editor
A new roof and new ideas for ‘Nancy’Peter Heading applied the final cream top coat this week and the job was done. Big thanks to Martin and Judy Krynen who sponsored the project, and Peters Heading and Laidlaw who did the work. The new ‘lid’ is exceptionally water-tight and strong, and it looks pretty good too. Seeing all that clear roof space has stimulated consideration of options for using it – for instance it is an ideal spot for solar panels. During the summer ‘Nancy’ sits in the sun for at least 25 hours for every one that the motor is being used, so trickle charging would seem a strong possibility. This has the big advantage of freeing Nancy from the electrical cord to which she currently …
Posted Nov 12, 2016, 3:48 PM by Posts Editor
Swiftsure Regatta Sunday 27 NovemberLorrie Harrison writes:“Starting at 9:30 with the Roger Harwood Classic Clinker Dinghy Race, can anyone beat John Young in this 3km single rower race? Anyone can enter, bring your own dinghy or use one of the LBT’s super fast grebes. The rowing continues with the traditional Swiftsure Race, a timed trial around Egg Island. Form a team on the day or gain an advantage by training in advance. We would not have a regatta without the skiffs, Cygnet and Taroona are joining us. Jane Johnson has organised races for new, experienced and competitive rowers. ( rowers in the skiff must be 15 years and over, coxswains 16 years and over). Sailors are not forgotten, the Rat Island Race …
Posted Nov 13, 2016, 12:12 PM by Posts Editor
Cooks wantedIf the LBT is first of all about boats, it is second of all about community, of which Monday night dinner is a cornerstone. In recent years there have been several stalwarts in the kitchen: Kate, Jilly, Hans and Ros. Jilly announced last Monday that it is time to pass her wooden spoon on to somebody new. There were cries of woe and despair from below the salt, but it seems her mind is made up. On behalf of all the LBT this column says thank you Jilly, and our tummies say thanks for the memories too. We need somebody (or several somebodies) to receive that spoon: what an honor. To join the kitchen crew speak to Kate, Jilly or …
Posted Nov 11, 2016, 2:26 PM by Posts Editor
In a good cause: Anglican church trivia nightIt’s all happening at 7pm on Friday December 2nd. For more details see the attached flyer (http://bit.ly/2eX04g8) or call 0427 640156
Posted Nov 10, 2016, 4:46 PM by Posts Editor
‘Kermandie’ for saleSorry, it’s not the pub, but it IS a huon pine cruising boat with a lot of local connections: that name, built in Port Huon by Athol Walter. Even better if you are moving to Bowen (Qld) ‘cos that is where it is. If you are interested see the flyer: http://bit.ly/2emIy8W
Posted Nov 10, 2016, 12:14 PM by Posts Editor
“Sail before steam” doesn’t always workA reminder to rowers and sailors to stay clear of larger boats on the river. Large boats have limited maneuverability, particularly at low speed and particularly in and around the marina where space is limited and currents can make steering difficult. Guess who comes off worse if there is a collision.
Posted Nov 8, 2016, 8:42 PM by Posts Editor
Advice to the LBT committeeThere will be an informal members meeting preceding dinner on Monday 14th of November at 6pm to discuss issues currently before the committee. Minutes of the last committee meeting are available at http://bit.ly/2edzDqk . Minutes are always available on the website under the ‘Resources’ tab.
Posted Nov 6, 2016, 12:41 PM by Posts Editor
Deploying the PontoonsLast Wednesday Jennifer Mudge and Chris Price from Parks did a foreshore walk with Hans Sipsma, David Pittaway, Richard Forster and others to look at the options for pontoon deployment proposed by the LBT. The following key points emerged. They were generally supportive, seeing the foreshore, particularly between the downstream marina jetty and the evaporator sheds, as a ‘natural’ harbour. There is no immediate issue with driving poles to secure pontoons. The access to the proposed site next to the evaporators is adequate. The LBT should proceed with the proposal to take over the license for the land just downstream from the their shed in order to gain better access to the water there. That would enhance the prospects of …
Posted Nov 6, 2016, 12:05 PM by Posts Editor
Innovations on BitternBittern’ maintains the tradition that every new Skiff has a different oar (rowlock) and foot rest system.
Posted Nov 5, 2016, 11:07 PM by Posts Editor
Painting SeasonIt’s been going on for weeks, but seems to have reached a frenzy. Hans Sipsma is taping up ‘Syrah’. Sue Jenkins and Lynn are applying a post box red topcoat to ‘Bittern’. ‘Nancy’ has a brilliant white undercoat on her new roof.
Posted Nov 5, 2016, 10:59 PM by Posts Editor
Ouch!!When a fast moving racing shell meets a very stationary putt putt (John Walduck’s ‘Gemma’) something is bound to give, unfortunately below the waterline. Some quick thinking (and moving) got Gemma up on the bank before she sank. We think the rower is ok. John says: ‘HUGE thank you to David Nash and Martin Kell (and any others) for their rescue efforts in securing Gemma.’
Posted Nov 6, 2016, 4:06 PM by Posts Editor
LBT rowing crewsLorrie Harrison has sent us the following notice on behalf of the Regatta organising committee. It is time to start forming up LBT crews for the upcoming skiff regatta in February, particularly with Swiftsure Regatta now only three weeks away. Here are some things to consider: races will be 2km and 1km; men’s, women’s, mixed; age groups, over 55, under 55 and open; average age of all 4 rowers is taken to determine age group; we are entering one crew for each division; min age for rowers is 15, for the coxswain is 16; Scottish and Irish teams as well as New Zealanders and the very slick mob from WA have been training for some time – time for …
Posted Nov 6, 2016, 4:07 PM by Posts Editor
The Skiff: a latter day Cutty Sark?Rob Ayliffe reports: ‘While there [in Geelong] I also had a good look under the superb model they have there of the Cutty Sark. A famous working voyaging sailing ship, if ever there was one. Interestingly for me the under body was not that different from our [St Ayles] Skiffs, especially the dead straight run; the deadwood/length wise keel in almost the exact same in proportion, and even more interesting the rudder depth was similar too, to our boats. ie the lower tip pretty much in line with and definitely not below the run of the deadwood.’ We will take Rob’s word for all of that, but the Cutty Sark does seem to have the wood on us …
Posted Nov 5, 2016, 5:24 PM by Posts Editor
A sailing rig for the SkiffWe know (and love) our St Ayles Skiffs as rowing boats, but on longer expeditions it is nice to be able to hoist a sail and take a break. Iain Oughtred, the designer of the Skiff, has come up with the sprit sail rig shown below. Rob Ayliffe points out the following virtues:no head banging boom; reefable; easily rolled up, and stowable, within the boat.The thinking is that it’s for raids and voyaging, and general around the club ‘mucking about’ in boats: not for regattas.
Posted Nov 6, 2016, 12:17 PM by Posts Editor
Keeping up with tawe nunnugahIf you aren’t already getting the online tn17 newsletter and want it, then complete the form at http://bit.ly/2eIQ5v5 . Martin Riddle has been exploring over on Bruny Island, and has just announced the route: see map below.
Posted Nov 4, 2016, 10:44 PM by Posts Editor
Launching ‘Bittern’: 27th NovemberThe ‘Bittern‘ St Ayles Skiff is getting her last undercoat in the LBT workshop annex. The intention is that she will be complete and ready to launch, amidst much pomp and ceremony, at the Swiftsure Regatta. Cellars are being combed for a suitably aged malt whisky with which to bless her, moths are being expelled from chaps dinner jackets, and fascinators fetched from the tops of wardrobes. At the launch of ‘Billy’ the choir set a bar which will be difficult to clear a second time, but we are hoping they will attempt it. Maybe some of that whisky can be set aside to help ’em clear the pipes. Pic from Lorrie Harrison
Posted Nov 5, 2016, 11:28 PM by Posts Editor
Navigation Hazard – Port HuonMariners are advised (by Maritime and Safety Tasmania) that the buoy marking the sunken vessel Dooen in Hospital Bay in position 43⁰ 09.530’ S / 146⁰ 58.357’ E is missing. Mariners should navigate with caution in the area. Valid From: 4/11/2016 Until: Perpetual
Posted Nov 4, 2016, 1:56 PM by Posts Editor
Amsterdam Launch For Dutch Boat ProjectLooks like it was a good party. Read all about it on the Australian Wooden Boat Festival news blog: http://bit.ly/2eHThHi . For those who need reminding, a major theme of this year’s Festival is the Holland-Australia maritime connection. As part of the celebration of that connection a team from Holland will be constructing a boat at the Wooden Boat Centre for display at the Festival. We understand that Dave Golding has already sawn up the Celery Pine strip planking they will need. We are expecting to see the first members of this team in Franklin by the end of the month, with the Australian launch to follow soon after.
Posted Nov 6, 2016, 12:14 PM by Posts Editor
Classic Movie Night at the Palais Sunday November 6thDeb Combes writes: Hi Team Movies, WARNING: QUALITY FILM RETURNING TO THE PALAIS. Quality comes at a cost. $5 admission to pay screening fee. This month’s film is the 2014 French box office smash hit, The Belier Family. If you enjoyed our previous screenings of French films “The Intouchables”, “Welcome to the Sticks” and “The Grocer’s Son”, then this is a film for you. heck out the trailer. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P9p0qnj4OC4trailer. Doors open 6.30pm, film starts when someone flicks the lights. After 7.15pm but before 7.30pm. Yes, simple but it still works a treat. $5 admission, bar will be running with reasonably priced quality refreshments to assist with diffusing the …
Posted Oct 30, 2016, 1:21 PM by Richard Forster
‘Niko’ Recreational Rowing Boat projectSteve Cameron writes: ‘I have obtained a sample of a new engineered boat-building timber product from Finland called ‘Vendia Marine Plank’ for a build of a Finnish ‘Niko’ design recreational rowing boat. The Niko is one or two person design, with fixed or sliding seats, based on wooden boat styles commonly raced in Finland. It was designed specifically for the Vendia product and to be easily completed by amateur builders in a course situation using batten-seam construction. The Wooden Boat Centre are currently considering its suitability for a course. Basic specs of the boat are: Length 5.85m, Breadth 1.44m, Empty Weight ~58kg. I intend to display the boat the Australian Wooden Boat Festival in Feb 2017 …
Posted Oct 28, 2016, 3:19 PM by Posts Editor
To give away: 12′ plywood sailing dinghyPhil Robinson is looking to give away a 12’ Tamar Class plywood sail boat. It is in a shed in Geeveston that needs to be cleared. It has intact mast, newish sails, and is on a push trailer. Contact: 0424 000 917 The picture below shows a boat of the same class at the Georgetown Museum.
Posted Oct 27, 2016, 11:19 PM by Posts Editor
Model boats for the AWBFMichael Stoddart writes:‘The Registration site on the Australian Wooden Boat Festival 2017 website is now open for the receipt of model boat registrations. Please go to http://www.australianwoodenboatfestival.com.au/get-involved/boat-registration and complete your registration. Click on ‘Model Boat’ and follow the screens. If you have exhibited with the AWBF in previous years you will notice a change in procedure. It is now necessary for all model boats to be registered in the same way as Boats Afloat and Boats Ashore. There is no charge for exhibiting one or more model boats but if you should wish to have the commemorative plaque and flag you must tick the appropriate box on the registration form and …
Posted Oct 27, 2016, 1:37 AM by Posts Editor
Montague Whaler SailsWe are hoping the Montague whaler might be coming on tawe nunnugah, and one issue is her sails. They are lovely old canvas things, unfortunately not with enough strength left in them for sailing. They will make good patterns for new ones.
Posted Oct 25, 2016, 9:47 PM by Posts Editor
Pete and Pete and NancyPeters Heading and Laidlaw have removed the deteriorating veneer from the roof of ‘Nancy’, and are racing against the weather to get down plywood and fibreglass to seal her up.
Posted Oct 25, 2016, 9:40 PM by Posts Editor
‘Old Sea Dogs Book 2’ and other Cuppa ConversationsThose of us who missed the launch of Andrew Wilson’s excellent book (a large section of which is dedicated to Franklin) can catch up with him at the ‘Cuppa Conversation’ organised be Huon Council on Thursday December 8th (flyer: http://bit.ly/2dGLnMT), but we should only do that having first attended the exercise class on Thursday 10th November (flyer http://bit.ly/2f5nDrL).
Posted Oct 25, 2016, 3:03 PM by Posts Editor
Bellerive Seafarers FestivalAnnette, Endra, Hans, Nell, Tess, Steve and Dennis took ‘Billy’, the marquee and the makings for some good nautical activities (model raft making, knot tying etc), to this very popular family event, and a good time was had by all. Don’t think Billy has ever been asked to tow a balloon boat before. Thanks to Dennis and Endra for the pics shown below.
Posted Oct 25, 2016, 2:58 AM by Posts Editor
Swiftsure Regatta Nov 27 2016, at the Living Boat TrustJane Johnson has sent us a plan for the St Ayles Skiff part of the Regatta. Other (non Skiff) events will include the Swiftsure Race, Roger Harwood and the Rat Island sailing race.Possible skiffs available – Imagine, Billie, “New” (Franklin) The Swan (Cygnet), Chiton (Taroona)The proposed plan is to offer something for new and seasoned rowers, over a two hour period,Approx. 10 am to 12 noon, race course 1km from Jetty post, upstream 500m, 1 turn & return 10.30 – 10.50 1. Gentle exploring row – Launch of new skiff, head towards Nth Egg Island for “ rowpast” for new and seasoned rowers to warm up, all skiffs. Welcome to rowers from Williamstown who are planning a skiff-build. 10 …
Posted Oct 25, 2016, 2:04 AM by Posts Editor
Pontooners wanted (Wednesdays)David Pittaway writes:‘I’ll be back down at the pontoon construction site next Wednesday 26th, then all future Wednesdays until years end – we should be able to finish P1 & P2 by then.I trust the Wednesday blokes will be around again, and I invite anybody else interested in helping getting P1 & P2 functional to come down and be involved. P1 needs the decking laid and screwed, fenders scarfed and cleats and cleat blocks sorted. P2 will soon have a full complement of floats, which need to be bolted on, then P2 will need launching – lets get some bubbly happening this time!’
Posted Oct 25, 2016, 1:55 AM by Posts Editor
Hooray! A day of spring (sailing) weatherMike Dredge writes (On Monday 24th October):‘The blue stuff out there is called “sky”. The flat water means “calm”. Which means we can have a sailing session today. John and I will go down at about 2:30 to find some sails and stuff.’
Posted Oct 23, 2016, 2:18 PM by Posts Editor
Nancy the bike taxiA dozen or so of our visitors from CCAMLR (Commission for the Conservation of Antarctic Marine Living Resources) rode their bikes from Hobart to Franklin by way of Fern Tree (mad people). When we last saw them boarding Nancy to take a shortcut to Cradoc they were intending to make a return trip via Pelverata and Kaoota (lunatics).
Posted Oct 23, 2016, 3:47 PM by Posts Editor
We like those cafe blindsSunday afternoon was a bit breezy and chilly for the CCAMLR BBQ, but the lowered blinds at the end of the verandah created a lovely warm corner in which to enjoy Kate’s tucker. If you are wondering why you can’t see the blind at the end it is because it is so clear you barely know it is there.
Posted Oct 22, 2016, 10:57 PM by Posts Editor
Garage sale for the LBTThis weekend saw a ‘Garage Sale Trail’ around the Huon Valley, taking in the Glen Huon Hall where Dennis Muscovich ran a stall for us. It raised a significant amount of money: thanks Dennis. Pic from Nick Forster
Posted Oct 21, 2016, 10:44 PM by Posts Editor
Steamboat Rally Sunday 20th NovemberFrom Andrew Perkins: steam,paddle,row or sail from Franklin to Huonville for a lunchtime get together with other wooden boat groups at the Huon Jet Boat Cafe; enjoy a BBQ for $15 per head including salads, sausages, hamburgers, bread rolls with self serve tea, coffee and orange juice or choose from the Cafe menu or BYO;meet at Franklin for 10.30 am departure for Huonville returning at 2.30 pm in time for afternoon tea at the Living Boat Trust or a discounted tour of the Wooden Boat Centre;please advise numbers for the bbq and tour of the Centre prior to 10.30 am departure from Franklin to Andrew Perkins on 0419 375500. Those of us who …
Posted Oct 21, 2016, 2:43 PM by Posts Editor
Grebe schoolThe weather was ‘ok’ on Monday evening, so John Walduck and Mike Dredge conducted their second class for novice Grebe sailors. This one was all about the intricacies of gaff rigs, and the special quirks and traps to watch out for.
Posted Oct 17, 2016, 1:09 PM by Posts Editor
Paints from Sorell Men’s Shed: thank youAs noted previously in this column, Sorell Mens Shed has been given a batch of mixed paints and is offering them to other sheds. Mike Dredge knows how wooden boats chew through paint, and quickly took up this offer on our behalf: the result is pictured. Thanks Sorell and thanks Mike. We may well be able to get some more after other sheds have had their dibs.
Posted Oct 17, 2016, 1:11 PM by Posts Editor
Big thanks to Nancy crewSeniors Week for this year has just ended, marked by the extremes of weather that the Bureau of Meteorology traditionally turn on for it. We acknowledge their efforts but ask them to tone it down next year, please. Nancy was out every day with boatloads of happy senior cits. Thanks to everybody who helped out, particularly Brian Pain, Martin Riddle, Deb Van Velsen, Hans Sipsma and Nell Tyson who did most of the heavy lifting. Pic from Nell Tyson
Posted Oct 21, 2016, 2:22 PM by Posts Editor
Work in the shedFrom Graham Wright (text and pics): Two pictures of Gretchen with her new Dynal sheathing on one side, this will keep her dry. Black Swan showing the strengthened transomWork on the new toilet, not visible is the ceiling which has had plaster board attached We decided that the ideal height of the new shelf unit is bar height and pic shows Allan testing it!
Posted Oct 23, 2016, 5:48 PM by Posts Editor
A new Port Davey book: get involvedJohn Wadsley from the Maritime Museum writes: Tony Fenton is crowdfunding the publication of his book, A History of Port Davey, volume one: Fleeting Hopes. This is a varied and detailed look at the early history of that magnificent waterway. Tony is following in his grandfather Deny King’s shoes with his passion for the place. He has been researching for this book for many years and, with your help, he will be able to share the amazing history of Port Davey with us all. This book complements two biographies associated with the area: King of the Wilderness: the life of Deny King by Christobel Mattingley and Win & Clyde: side by side in Tasmania’s far south-west by Janet …
Posted Oct 25, 2016, 3:35 AM by Posts Editor
Skiff Regatta NewsletterSee the attached newsletter (http://bit.ly/2ehHtQg) for the latest on Skiffie2017, which you scarcely need reminding is on the weekend after the Wooden Boat Festival, 18th-19th February. Find out more and register for this regatta on the website: tasskiffie2017.org.
Posted Oct 13, 2016, 1:55 PM by Posts Editor
Is it that season already?Bec Enders is looking forward to Christmas Day, and planning a party at the LBT shed for those whose loved ones are far away, or who are too grumpy to join them. See attached flyer for details: http://bit.ly/2dSAAlN .
Posted Oct 12, 2016, 1:53 PM by Posts Editor
Seniors WeekSeniors are nothing if not intrepid, and Laurence Burgin snapped them heading out into the lowering storm in Nancy yesterday. Fortunately Nancy has a snug cabin, and the sun soon broke through: this is after all Tasmania.
Posted Oct 12, 2016, 1:54 PM by Posts Editor
Garage Sale, Glen Huon 22nd OctoberDennis Muscovich writes:‘There will be an LBT stall at the combined garage sale at Glen Huon Hall. Items and helpers needed. Contact Dennis: 0428 364 178’
Posted Oct 11, 2016, 5:10 AM by Posts Editor
MAST Notice: Rowing RegattasValid: 11/10/2016 – 6/11/2016Notice Content: Rowing Regattas will be held on the Huon River at Franklin on Saturday, 22 October and Sunday, 23 October, Saturday, 5 November and Sunday, 6 November2016. Mariners are advised the River will be restricted for other boating pursuits onSaturdays from 0800 to 1830 and on Sundays from 0800 to 1630. Boat owners are restricted from using the boat ramp at Franklin and entering the rowing restricted area during these times. The restricted area is thecourse and 500 metres either side of the course. Boat owners must followdirections of rowing officials. A public boat ramp is available at Shipwrights Point, south of Franklin.
Posted Oct 11, 2016, 4:05 AM by Posts Editor
Pains, Varnishes & Stains – Available from Sorell Mens ShedWell that’s what he said, but we think he meant paints. Keith Ellis from the Tassie Men’s Shed Association writes:‘I have been advised by Chris Coyle from the Sorel Men’s Shed that: – “we have been given 2 pallets of paints, varnishes & stains. Cabots & feastWatsons. There are various sizes From 500ml-5ltrs. We would like to offer them free to any other sheds on a first come first serve basis. Some of the larger paints need tinting.’ If you are interested, please contact Chris at the Sorel Men’s Shed.’Anybody going through Sorell?
Posted Oct 10, 2016, 4:12 AM by Posts Editor
Woodbridge pier damagedMAST Notice Mariners are advised that the Woodbridge Jetty has sustained damaged in the recent weather conditions. It has been reported that the southern outer pylon of the Woodbridge Jetty is damaged and will not hold a vessel. MAST requests that vessel operators do not tie up to this pylon and berth on the northern side of the jetty until the pylon has been assessed and appropriate repairs undertaken. Valid 10/10/2016- 11/11/2016 Pic from http://www.aussietowns.com.au
Posted Oct 10, 2016, 3:49 AM by Posts Editor
Spring gale dismastingThe best place to be on Sunday was tied up to the wharf, below decks, whittling and whipping and doing a bit of scrimshaw work and the like. Even ashore there could be trouble if too much sail was set. The blue gum pictured, 30 metres tall and half a metre through the trunk, clearly didn’t get it’s royals and topgallants down in time.
Posted Oct 13, 2016, 3:28 PM by Posts Editor
Navigation Warning – Floating Debris (contd)Mike Dredge tells us that the MAST warning of a week ago (http://bit.ly/2dWSeY5) should remain very much alive (on the 7th October): there is a nasty snag at South Franklin which is slowly moving and is not particularly visible at high tide.
Posted Oct 7, 2016, 10:27 PM by Posts Editor
Cut and polish for NancyBrian Pain took advantage of a window of still weather to get ‘Nancy’ down to the slip at Port Huon, where her undersides were attended to, she had her annual inspection, and was surveyed. All went well, and we are not expecting any nasty surprises in the surveyors report. Pics from Graham Wright
Posted Oct 6, 2016, 2:11 PM by Posts Editor
One for the bargain huntersAuction to be conducted on Sunday October 16, 2016, at the Palais Theatre, Franklin, starting at 10.30am.See flyer attached for more details: http://bit.ly/2dMDjzs
Posted Oct 5, 2016, 4:32 AM by Posts Editor
Special Event at Museum: Tuesday October 4thJohn Wadsley writes: ‘REMINDER: Maritime Museum of Tasmania – Special Event on 4 October 2016 for the 400th Anniversary of the Dutch landing in Western Australia. note the change of venue to the Hobart Town Hall. free entry.’ See the flyer for details.
Posted Oct 2, 2016, 7:52 PM by Posts Editor
Warrnambool Regatta (March 2017)Patrick Groot has sent us the flyer for this event: see below. Those of us who went to the launch of ‘Fast Messenger’ at Warrnambool last year can vouch for what a great place it is both for visiting and rowing – see previous posts http://bit.ly/2dknrBL and http://bit.ly/2dkoqSu
Posted Oct 2, 2016, 4:10 PM by Posts Editor
Exploding CalendarThe calendar is bristling with events this week:On Monday: at 3.30pm the first sailing class for the season (hope you have booked);at 5.30pm a meeting of the Nancy Fanciers to get organised before the rush of maintenance and bookings (see agenda: http://bit.ly/2dItu5z); Monday dinner, which will be an opportunity for input to the first committee meeting.On Tuesday: working on completion of the shed extension and boat maintenance. On Wednesday: getting more decking onto the pontoon. On Thursday:Slipping Nancy (moved from Tuesday due to weather); LBT Committee meeting (see draft agenda: http://bit.ly/2dk8krX). On Friday: Working on the skiffs (which is ongoing).
Posted Oct 2, 2016, 2:04 PM by Posts Editor
Kayak launchThe neat little kayaks which have been built by students at the Wooden Boat Centre over the last week (instructors Peter Ingram-Jones and Greg Simson) were tested on the river for the first time on Saturday. All held water and none capsized whilst your correspondent was present: must count as a success! See http://www.woodenboatcentre.com/coursecalendar/ for more courses at the Centre. Pics from Anne Holst
Posted Oct 3, 2016, 8:16 PM by Posts Editor
Read all about the EvaporatorsThose who missed the Sunday Mercury article about the plans Martin and Judy Krynen (our neighbours) have for this building can read all about it online: http://bit.ly/2dB21D1. There is more in this weeks Huon News. The latest intelligence is that the plans have been given development approval by the council.
Posted Oct 1, 2016, 3:14 PM by Posts Editor
Navigation Warning – Floating DebrisMAST Notice: Valid From: 29/9/2016 Until: 7/10/2016. Mariners are advised that recent heavy rains have caused debris including logsto be washed into rivers and estuaries around the State.Mariners are also advised barways and river mouths may change, particularly onthe East Coast and North Coast due to flooding. Mariners are urged to take extreme caution whilst navigating whilst theseconditions exist. Mariners should at all times acquaint themselves with forecast weather by goingto the Bureau of Meteorology– Meteye http://www.bom.gov.au/australia/meteye/
Posted Sep 29, 2016, 5:54 PM by Posts Editor
News from Huon Yacht ClubStan Pickering writes: Dear Members and Friends, A reminder that it is the HYC Social night tomorrow evening. 6.30pm start at the clubhouse. We hope the weather will be better by tomorrow night… Also a reminder for the HYC General Meeting on Tuesday 4th. October at the clubhouse at 7.30pm. All welcome, so come along and hear what your club has planned for Opening Day and the forthcoming season. And last but not least, the HYC Opening Day celebration and sail-past at the clubhouse. Sail-past to commence at 1.15pm. on Sunday 9th. October 2016. See attached poster. I look forward to seeing as many of you as possible at all three occasions, Poster attached: http …
Posted Sep 29, 2016, 6:18 PM by Posts Editor
Voluntary workers insuranceOur insurance broker Grant Butters came to the shed on Tuesday, principally to discuss Tawe Nunnugah with us, but also to help clear up any other issues. LBT members commonly ask about the cover provided for them by the LBT in the case of accidents. Here is the summary we came up with. The insurance we have is primarily intended for people doing work for the LBT, in the workshop or supervising events. If you are in paid employment (outside the LBT) the insurance provides some cover for loss of income in the case of injury: up to $400 per week to a maximum of 104 weeks. If you are not in paid employment and are injured whilst working for …
Posted Sep 29, 2016, 6:18 PM by Posts Editor
Navigation Light – Port Esperance DoverMAST Notice: Mariners are advised that a fixed yellow navigation light has been established on a pile in Port Esperance, Dover in position 43o20.135S, 147 00.933E.
Posted Sep 29, 2016, 6:19 PM by Posts Editor
Progress in the shedGraham Wright writes: ‘Brett is back from his European adventures and put us right as the images show. The northern wall on the new equal access toilet is the privacy screen as required by the regulations. We haven’t been totally happy with this as you can see through it.’ Pics from Graham Wright
Posted Sep 28, 2016, 3:53 PM by Posts Editor
Bungee RowingNell Tyson, our industrial spy on the waterways of Europe, sent this suggestion for a regatta activity. https://youtu.be/-5EcFoguFBE
Posted Sep 25, 2016, 7:50 PM by Posts Editor
Pontoon progress reportDavid Pittaway writes: ‘pontoons are coming along slowly but consistently. The physical size of components demands a team approach, which has been well attended on Wednesday mornings. We have P1 fully framed up and ready for decking to go on. Any observers will have noticed a few extra scungy timbers incorporated into the framing. These have been added in anticipation of having to take the rolling load of the brow (engineer talk for walkway) which has been purpose bought for one pontoon. ‘ Pics in reverse order below show the progress: the current state of framing, getting the framed up floats into the water, and David removing the old decking.
Posted Sep 25, 2016, 6:21 PM by Posts Editor
Movie at the Palais: Sunday Oct 2nd“This month’s movie is the 2003 Australian deadly serious comedy/thriller “Bad Eggs”. We here at Team Movie Command headquarters take our role seriously. After receiving an anonymous letter of “Movie Suggestions” signed “Arm Chair Action Man”, this month’s movie will cover all the requested B’s. B standing for: Bullets, blokey buddies, baddies, blood and battles.”Doors open 6.30pm for 7.15pm start. Bring a plate and a gold coin.
Posted Sep 25, 2016, 4:10 PM by Posts Editor
Reminder: First sailing class next Monday (3rd Oct)Mike Dredge has sent us the program: see http://bit.ly/2cUAKZx and http://bit.ly/2dijCiX. Start time is 3.30pm. First class on shore, so it won’t be dependent on the weather. There are still one or two places available for this course: sign up at the shed.
Posted Sep 25, 2016, 3:27 PM by Posts Editor
Nancy Fanciers MeetingA glimpse at the Nancy calender (mv-nancy-tours.org) shows that there is a VERY busy October coming up. We need to get organised, and the first meeting for the Nancy Fanciers for the season is proposed for 5.30pm, Monday October 3rd at the Shed. This time should suit those who need to get away to fire brigade and other evening events, and also those who want to hand around for dinner. Items on the agenda will include organising crews, checking procedures, and slipping and surveying: if you think there is something else that needs to be attended to email it to sec@lbt.org.au
Posted Sep 25, 2016, 1:34 AM by Posts Editor
The King is deadLong live the King. At the AGM on Saturday Peter Laidlaw dismissed himself and the committee for 2015-16, and was promptly elected as president of the 2016-17 committee. His minions are: Treasurer: Jackie Garnsey, Secretary: Richard Forster, General committee members: Brett Doubleday, Brian Marriott, Graham Rankin, Jilly Archer, Karen Corbin, Lorrie Harrison, Martin Riddle, Ros Barnett Documents from the AGM can be viewed at http://bit.ly/2dinPTO (more to come).
Posted Sep 25, 2016, 3:03 PM by Posts Editor
Upcoming Fun Events for Children to AdultsKids first of all….from the Maritime Museum of Tasmania…..Please find attached our flyer for the next School Holidays program that will be held in the September/October holidays.We think this program is pretty exciting, so please circulate throughout your organisations, far and wide. Feel free to copy and include in your regular mail-outs and newsletters.If you have any queries, please call the Museum on 6234 1427 or email admin@maritimetas.organd for the adults…..a Wheels, Wings and Rudders sale on October 2nd in Cygnet.May be of interest to the model collectors among us, includes books and all sorts of stuff. Rather a lot of it and all reasonably priced.
Posted Sep 25, 2016, 12:27 AM by Posts Editor
Dee Oirish RowersIreland’s first ever Olympic rowing medallists have inspired a hilarious poem.Listen and laughhttps://youtu.be/Cg_h3nD4Nhk
Posted Sep 22, 2016, 2:05 PM by Posts Editor
FINAL REMINDER ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING AND QUIZ NIGHTA final reminder to all our members that the AGM is being held this Saturday the 24th of September, starting at 6pm at the Franklin Bowling Club.At the last Committee meeting a motion was adopted to maintain the number of ordinary members at eight, as has been the the convention in previous years. A healthy sign of member interest is that for the first time in a long time, if ever, we have more nominations than positions, so we need a proper election! We aren’t sure about the stance the nominees are taking, although there have been vague mutterings about a Jacquie Lambie faction and Eddie Obeid may also be taking an interest. So come along on Saturday …
Posted Sep 21, 2016, 6:44 PM by Posts Editor
Huon River Boat Parade – Friday 17 February 2017To open the St Ayles Skiff Regatta, our classic launch Nancy will lead a fleet of skiffs and assorted craft from Huonville downriver to Franklin.The Derwent Scottish Pipe Band will provide musical encouragement aboard an iconic local motorboat, as we cruise towards the opening ceremony at Franklin Rowing Ways. Build, beg, buy or borrow a boat for this amazing event. Flags, banners and joie de vivre essential. Opening ceremony will be followed by an evening of food, fun and fiesta at the Franklin Palais.Put this in your diary – more details to follow.
Posted Sep 17, 2016, 9:49 PM by Posts Editor
LBT needs Magic CarpetWe are looking for a large piece of carpet in reasonable condition, to replace the current carpet that is in the area outside the kitchen. If you can help, please contact ozskiff@gmail.com.
Posted Sep 17, 2016, 12:45 AM by Posts Editor
Tuesday boys test the new seat – and it passes with flying coloursGraham Wright reports…..Busy day today, Huon Harmony is back in the water and under the shed, and Black Swan has had a pressure wash and is in the extension ready for repairs.The seat slats have been varnished and fitted on the veranda seat oar storage, and of course it had to be tested.Now the seat is complete, work will begin on the equal access toilet on Thursday
Posted Jun 9, 2017, 3:55 PM by Posts Editor
Just Bowl Along to this OneFrom our Mens Shed friends……CarbaTec are holding a Arbotech Demo at their Hobart store – learn how to carve a free form bowl. See attached posterDetails as follows:-Carbatec Hobart Saturday 17th September 9am to 11am17 Farley Street Glenorchy P: 6272 8881Attached is their flyer.
Posted Sep 13, 2016, 3:56 PM by Posts Editor
ThanksThe LBT committee would like to sincerely thank the large number of members who turned out on Monday night to help us resolve a difficult membership issue.This process has been testing and stressful for all committee members for several months. Running an organisation like the LBT, that encompasses such diverse interests, is not easy but knowing we have such good support from the majority of our members is very reassuring for all of us.
Posted Sep 12, 2016, 10:59 PM by Posts Editor
Haven’t a Clew about Sailing?Always wanted to know a jib from a gybe? Mike and John can soon have you tacking and tracking. Basic sailing course starting in October. See attached for more details.
Posted Sep 10, 2016, 11:13 PM by Posts Editor
Last Reminder – extremely important (but very short) Special General MeetingA final reminder that a Special General Meeting of Members will be held at the Palais Theatre, 3388 Huon Hwy, Franklin Tas 7113 in the Supper Room, on Monday 12 September 2016 at 5.30 pm pursuant to rule 32 of the Living Boat Trust Constitution. No other business may be transacted at the meeting. It is important that all currently paid up LBT members attend if possible. Meeting will be very brief.
Posted Sep 10, 2016, 11:08 PM by Posts Editor
Welcome Home lunch for our Skiffie Worlds superstarsToday was all about a welcome home to our rowers who have been away, and at last a clear area where we can set up a few tables.Thanks to everyone who worked on cleaning up the area. Now that the workshop extension can accommodate the boats, what a great space this will prove to be.Weather too good to use the blinds.
Posted Sep 9, 2016, 4:01 AM by Posts Editor
Nominations for LBT committeeThe form is available on the LBT site.However, here it is attached to this post.There are also copies available in the shed.The positions available are 8 ordinary committee members plus President, Treasurer and Secretary.Nominations must be received by 14 September – preferably in the postbox at the LBT office, or email the acting Secretary Graham Rankin
Posted Sep 8, 2016, 3:29 PM by Posts Editor
AGM Special ! Buy one, get one free!Floating voter and itching to vote? We have 2 AGM’s this month.LBT – Sat 24 September – 6pm at Franklin Bowling ClubWBC / Franklin Working Waterfront Association Sun 25 September – 2pm at Franklin School (not the Palais). See you there! Don’t miss the excitement!
Posted Sep 7, 2016, 2:33 AM by Posts Editor
And you thought we had mooring problems! Great River Race 2016Three hundred and thirty boats, over two thousand competitors, and the fastest boats completing the 21 mile course through central London in a little over 2 hours (that’s 15km per hour, helped by a very strong tide). Imagine a race like this on the Huon.Seven St Ayles skiffs took part – read Alex Jordan’s report with pictures on the Scottish Coastal Rowing sitehttp://scottishcoastalrowing.orgExcellent video from a competitors perspective on YouTubehttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=smf6iwtFvFE
Posted Sep 6, 2016, 3:55 PM by Posts Editor
Oarsome Storage and Sparkling HarmonyThose Tuesday boys have been creative again – fabulous new lockable storage for the skiff oars (which doubles as a bench seat), and Huon Harmony all ready to launch. Well done all round!
Posted Sep 6, 2016, 3:46 PM by Posts Editor
Very Important LBT Special General Meeting Monday 12 September, 5.30pmThe Living Boat Trust IncNotice of Special General Meeting of MembersMembers are advised that a Special General Meeting of Members will be held at the Palais Theatre Franklin, 3388 Huon Hwy, Franklin Tas 7113 in the Supper Room, 12 September 2016 at 5.30 pm pursuant to rule 32 of the Living Boat Trust Constitution. No other business may be transacted at the meeting. It is important that all currently paid up LBT members attend if possible. Meeting will be very brief.
Posted Sep 5, 2016, 12:25 AM by Posts Editor
Important Message from Endra O’MayI am organizing Landsowne School to come down to the LBT on the new date of the 9th Of November, a Wednesday.Could you put a call out on the LBT site for members wishing to help on that day, and also into the future, to acquire their workingwithchildren@justice.tas.gov.au This takes 6 weeks to process , so they need to do this within next few days. Thank you Endra
Posted Aug 31, 2016, 8:16 PM by Posts Editor
Team LBT gets Bolder in the Polder (plus an offer you can’t refuse!)It’s so nice sailing with wonderful scenery slipping by; polders, cows, willows and thatched farms, windmills, even right through the middle of villages. We often crash out after long days of sailing on canals, rivers and lakes (and Markermeer and Ijsselmeer).We are getting bolder in the polder, as we wait and pass through Klapbruggen (cantilever bridges), the bridge keeper swings the clog and we drop in a euro. Nothing is more fun than this, and everybody smiles at our grinning faces.Lots of bike rides too, it really is exhilarating to zoom though the flat countryside and end up in those gezellige terrasjes by a canal or in a little historic town square to down a delicious bruine …
Posted Aug 28, 2016, 4:12 PM by Posts Editor
Marine Art on Display at Wooden Boat Centre from 9 – 18 SeptemberMembers of the Huon Art Exhibitions Group and the Australian Society ofMarine Artists (Tasmanian branch) are contributing to a maritime themedexhibition to be held in the Wooden Boat Centre, Franklin.This exhibition will open on Friday evening the 9th September at 6.30 pmfor 7 pm. Ex Senator and leader of the Greens,Bob Brown, has kindly agreed to open the exhibition for us. Entry to the exhibition is $5.00 p.p. All are most welcome and if you can’t make it for the opening, be sure topop in throughout the following nine days. All works are for sale.For further information please contact Greg Guy:0407 462 917
Posted Aug 28, 2016, 12:54 AM by Posts Editor
Latest News from Wooden Boat CentreBay Pilot boat frame for sale, has been constructed and is ready to be finished by a handyman/boatbuilder. See Gumtree for details.http://www.gumtree.com.au/s-ad/franklin/motorboats-powerboats/bay-pilot-project-boat-designed-by-arch-davis/1122021472
Posted Aug 26, 2016, 8:23 PM by Posts Editor
Rosalie recognises LBTThanks very much to Rosalie Woodruff, Greens MP, for her generous donation to the LBT. We look forward to seeing her in the shed in the near future, and taking her out on Nancy.
Posted Aug 25, 2016, 12:51 AM by Posts Editor
Huon Harmony – Looking Like a Real Boat ShouldFrom Graham Wright…..We finished Huon Harmony’s interior today.The plan is to turn it over on Tuesday to prepare and varnish the hull with a second coat and antifoul the week after.A pity it has to go back in the water (just joking!)
Posted Aug 25, 2016, 12:47 AM by Posts Editor
First Cut for our Dutch Boat BuildersThe Dutch Boat Project is off to a racing start with the first cut of the rare Tasmanian timber that will be used for the construction of a 6-metre BM (Bergumer Meer class) sailboat at the Wooden Boat Centre in Franklin, Tasmania.For more pics and details, see the Festival blog: http://awbf.com.au/index.php/2016/08/14/old-skills-new-resources-dutch-project/
Posted Aug 21, 2016, 1:02 AM by Posts Editor
Big Launch – No ChampagneIt must have looked like building the pyramids – rollers, wedges, chains, levers and a cast of thousands. But it worked!The new plastic floats were bolted alongside, the newly welded deck made ready for the planking, obscure big boys toys (winches and jacks) recovered from backyard sheds and to the surprise of most of the participants, the whole 2 tonne structure slid gracefully back into the water. More action shots to follow in ‘The Pontoon, Part 2’
Posted Aug 21, 2016, 1:15 AM by Posts Editor
Old Sea Dogs Unleashed – Again !You may recall that Andrew Wilson, who wrote Old Sea Dogs of Tasmania, did a book launch at the shed for his first book. He will be launching his second book on Monday August 29. He will do a 20 -30 minute presentation around 6.30 prior to dinner. He’ll have books for sale on the night for $50.00 each and $5.00 from each sale will be donated to the LBT.
Posted Aug 15, 2016, 12:38 AM by Posts Editor
They must have thought the Vikings were coming back !Richard Foster’s sister Kate visited Iona a couple of months ago, and guess what she saw on the beach – these St Ayles skiffs visiting at the same time.
Posted Aug 13, 2016, 3:44 AM by Posts Editor
LBT Special General Meeting – CancelledThe Special General Meeting, scheduled for Monday 15th at 5.30 pm, is now cancelled.
Posted Aug 11, 2016, 11:10 PM by Posts Editor
Victorian St Ayles Skiff Championships 4-5 March 2017From Patrick Groot…..Following on from Franklin’s St Ayles Skiff Regatta in February 2017, is the Victorian ‘triple whammy’ on 4-5 March 2017 at Warrnambool……– Victorian St Ayles Skiff Championships – Australian Whaleboat Championships – South West Wooden Boat Exhibition. The Expressions of Interest flyer is attached, and will be followed up with the official flyer to be put together by Flagstaff Hill Maritime Museum, but the weekend is definitely on. It promises to be a brilliant 2 days with what we have planned boating wise and what the owner of Proudfoots Boathouse has in store regarding catering and entertainment. The status of skiffs in Victoria is that 2 are launched: ‘Cariad’ by Rev’ Jim Barr and the Melbourne Welsh …
Posted Aug 11, 2016, 4:53 PM by Posts Editor
Marlborough Sounds trip – sail, row, paddle……If you enjoyed the Hauraki Gulf in February this year, then how about a Marlborough Sounds trip in the South Island?The latest post on the New Zealand Coastal Rowing site outlines an opportunity for some sailing/rowing in the Marlborough Sounds in February 2017.:https://nzcoastalrowing.org/2016/08/11/great-opportunity-for-some-cruising-in-the-sounds/
Posted Aug 11, 2016, 4:35 PM by Posts Editor
Australia goes for gold, LBT will settle for bronzeOur On the Water Co-ordinator, Endra O’May is looking for someone who has their current Bronze Medallion and who may be willing to help out during the On the Water Schools Programme in the coming months.If you have a Bronze Medallion and would like to help out please give Endra a ring on 0412168552 or email her at: endra2012@hotmail.com
Posted Aug 11, 2016, 4:34 PM by Posts Editor
Tin RecyclingEmpty clean tins wanted for paint containers by the Imagine painting team. All tin sizes welcome, bring them down (cleaned first please!)
Posted Aug 10, 2016, 12:16 AM by Posts Editor
An Enormous Transparent Erection by the Blind ManRoller blinds went up today in the verandah area – this will help us keep out the Tasmanian weather, while at the same time enhancing that much sought-after ‘indoor-outdoor flow’.
Posted Aug 10, 2016, 12:13 AM by Posts Editor
Important Special General Meeting next MondayThe committee strongly encourages all current LBT members to attend a short Special General Meeting to vote on an important membership issue. Details are as follows……Date: Monday 15 August, 2016Time: 5:30pmPlace: Palais Theatre, Franklin, Supper room Address: 3388 Huon Hwy, Franklin TAS 7113The CommitteeThe Living Boat Trust
Posted Aug 8, 2016, 1:54 AM by Posts Editor
Two Musical EventsThere are many music aficionados among the LBT membership – here are two special events coming up soon.On Sunday 14 August, Yukon’s second mate and star clarinetist, Kristopher, will be performing with the Tasmanian Youth Orchestra. The concert – Viva Verdi! – takes place at 2pm in the Hobart Town Hall. For details see link ;http://www.tyo.org.au/projects-1/viva-verdi;And on Friday 12 August, Jeff Lang, Australian songwriter, singer and slide guitarist plays at the Palais Theatre. Doors open at 7.30. A rare chance to catch this superstar locally. For more information go to ; https://www.facebook.com/events/899273076867737/
Posted Aug 4, 2016, 5:25 PM by Posts Editor
Tawe Nunnugah PosterIt’s the people that make each tawe nunnugah Raid a unique and memorable experience. Now’s the time to get the word out and see who we can attract to join us for tn17 (1-10 February, 2017). If you have a colour printer and go to places frequented by boaty people, please download the PDF of the tn17 poster (available here), Print out a few copies and pin them up in prominent places on all their noticeboards.
Posted Aug 2, 2016, 2:34 PM by Posts Editor
Well done to our team at Skiffie Worlds in Ireland!According to the BBC, there were over 50 clubs and 1000 competitors taking part in the World Skiffies at Strangford Lough last week. After the excitement of coming 2nd in their heat on Thursday, the final for their main event (50+ womens) took place on Friday. According to reports, it was a beautiful clear day, but with an evil wind and sloppy big waves – very unlike our flat calm Huon. Team LBT/Huon/Tasmania did a great job flying the flag for Tassie – in the final they came 7th in a pack of 15.
Posted Jul 30, 2016, 9:24 PM by Posts Editor
Skiff Worlds Latest UpdateThe LBT girls at Strangford Lough World Skiffies in Ireland decided to enter the women’s under 40’s races on Tuesday. They successfully made it through the heats, and came in the middle of the pack for the finals (consisting of 15 skiffs.) Well done! And note that this is not their main event, which is the women’s 50+ races on Thursday and Friday.Happy Huon LBT girls and Coach
Posted Jul 27, 2016, 3:32 PM by Posts Editor
February 2017 – a busy month in and around FranklinFebruary 2017 is shaping up to be a very big month for small boats in the south of Tasmania, with much of the action happening in and around Franklin.The Living Boat Trust in Franklin is once again organising a 10-day small boat expedition starting at Recherche Bay at the very edge of Tasmania’s southwest wilderness and finishing in Hobart in time to join the sail past at the start of the Australian Wooden Boat Festival (AWBF). Row or sail in company through stunning coastal scenery, camping at exclusive locations and being fed by our expedition chef – what better way to arrive at the festival? The tawe nunnugah Raid (tn17) runs from 1-10 February 2017, is fully …
Posted Aug 2, 2016, 2:16 PM by Posts Editor
World Skiffies, Strangford Lough, Northern Ireland – skiffs as far as the eye can seeFirst report from LBT/Huon team at the World St Ayles Skiffies…. Sunday July 24 Opening day row from Strangford to Delamont, in the beautiful new skiff – named ‘The Feathers’ – kindly loaned by The Black Neb rowing club. This boat has round oars and they are lighter than ours, interesting foot rests.It was a 2 hour row from Strangford around to Delamont. The girls rowed well and were able to relax a bit once they became more used to the oars, and the current. The narrows at Strangford has to be seen to believed! A wonderful gathering at Delamont for the opening ceremony, cocktail party with finger food, plus a burger and sausage tent.The Tasmanians have beèn welcomed …
Posted Jul 25, 2016, 12:59 AM by Posts Editor
Any one for a game of pontoon?Graham Rankin writes: ‘Some members may be aware that the Trust obtained a grant to build a couple of pontoons in order to improve access to our boats and accommodate our growing fleet.Well we have the pontoons, which are being modified by Drysdale Engineering.We have the the timber and now we just need to build it! LBT stalwart, David Pittaway has bravely volunteered to co ordinate the build, and he would like to hear from any members who would like to help with this mammoth task. It’s not quite the Ark, but there is a lot of timber to wrangled. Ten longitudinal timber beams have to scarphed before being bolted to the pontoons and then the decking …
Posted Jul 25, 2016, 5:57 AM by Richard Forster
Poster Competition for St Ayles Skiff Regatta 2017The St Ayles Skiff Regatta will be held in Franklin in February 2017 – for the event, the organising committee is holding a poster competition – with a cash prize of $250. Entries close at the end of August, so get out those brushes, crayons, or whatever……. If you, or someone you know, might be interested in entering one (or more) posters for this event, please carefully read the details below. Information about the competition plus plus terms and conditions are attached. The St Ayles Skiff logo (which needs to be included in the poster) can be found on the LBT website http://lbt.rforster.org/tasskiffie2017
Posted Jul 23, 2016, 1:05 AM by Posts Editor
Anybody Know Who Owns these Fenders?Fenders are one of those pieces of equipment that often get lost or relocated. Thanks to Liz Marshall’s efforts, our fenders are not likely to go walkabout.
Posted Jul 21, 2016, 2:39 AM by Posts Editor
Rowan ResplendentGraham Wright writes…….A final touch up here and there on Thursday and then Rowan will be ready to launch next Tuesday.It’s taken a while to restore her, but given the condition she was in when we started we now have a boat to be proud of.But the paint was barely dry when we have prepared the next project ‘Huon Harmony’Allan rowed her ashore, Paul used the pressure washer to clean out all the dirt, leaves and some flaking paint.We all carried her in the front door and the floors have been removed ready to start preparing the paint and varnish work.Ah well only 5 more Grebes after this one!
Posted Jul 21, 2016, 12:01 AM by Posts Editor
Navigation Hazard Huon RiverMAST Notice No.: M126-16; Title: Navigation Hazard – Huon River; Valid From: 15/7/2016;Valid Until: 29/7/2016. Notice Content: Mariners are advised that with flood conditions in the Huon River it has been reported that there are various hazards in the river downstream from Huonville and at Franklin around the moorings and boat ramp area.
Posted Jul 15, 2016, 4:42 PM by Posts Editor
Special LBT members discount for Nancy trip!!CANCELLED DUE TO FLOODS To celebrate mid-winter, the Living Boat Trust is offering three opportunities to cruise from Franklin to Huonville and return at a very special members’ price. Living Boat Trust members can take advantage of this once-only offer to enjoy a two-hour cruise for a low $25.Please consider supporting these cruises and showing your appreciation of the volunteers who have put hundreds of hours into preparing Nancy for longer trips.Nancy will depart Franklin at 10.30am on the July 16,17,18 for Huonville and return.The weather forecast is looking good for the weekend.Bookings at nancywintercruise.gmail.comPhone Annette on 62664441All proceeds go to the upkeep of MV Nancy
Posted Jul 15, 2016, 4:33 PM by Posts Editor
Hey Dude, Where’s my Skiff?A Scottish group did a test capsize on a St Ayles skiff without buoyancy. Interesting result!
Posted Jul 11, 2016, 6:59 PM by Posts Editor
Full House at the Shed Last NightIt was a farewell occasion for our LBT team who are representing us at the St Ayles Skiff World Championships in northern Ireland later this month. Tim Brown, their coach, described their dedication over the previous months and the great progress they had made as rowers. Jilly laid on a very appropriate Irish Stew. The Tasmania clock (Huon Pine of course) will grace the bar of the Irish rowing club (Black Neb) that is providing them with a brand new skiff to race in.
Posted Jul 11, 2016, 6:56 PM by Posts Editor
Reminder – LBT subscriptions dueSubscriptions, plus personal details, required from EVERYONE, please.Subs:$40 for a single$70 for a couple or familyPlus $100 annual fee per person for rowers (you can still pay the $5 per week if you prefer)$120 group or corporate membersAny new members who paid in the last 3 months (April, May, June) this amount also covers you for the 2016/2017 membership. Payment directly to the bank is preferred, remembering to give your full name. so we know you have paid us.Bendigo Bank Huonville BranchBSB 633-000Account # 149496275Living Boat TrustIf you have not received your confirmation of payment by August then assume we didn’t receive your payment, so please contact …
Posted Jul 7, 2016, 4:01 PM by Posts Editor
Log BlogWe received a tip from the Wooden Boat Festival that two Hydrowood celery pine logs, harvested from the bottom of a lake out west, were about to arrive at Roger Linnells sawmill on the Channel Highway. We hotfooted around there in time to see Roger pushing said logs off the truck. It is intended that this wood be used for the construction of a traditional Dutch boat by a team of traditional Dutchmen at the Wooden Boat Centre, and that the boat will then be displayed at the Festival.It was great to see old friend of the LBT and life member Roger up and about, having largely recovered from the stroke he suffered last year. What is also good …
Posted Jul 7, 2016, 12:15 AM by Posts Editor
Away with the Decks…..David Pittaway and the team have been hard at work stripping the wooden decking off the old pontoons so that framing can be welded on to receive extra buoyancy floats.
Posted Jul 7, 2016, 12:15 AM by Posts Editor
The Yellow Boat at the MarinaFrom Glynn Shevels…..The Volunteer Marine Rescue vessel is at Franklin for the next three weeks having its motors serviced, plus a new remote spotlight fitted and a 6 person lIferaft fitted – all by Franklin Marine.Drop by and say hello and have a look at what we do. See the specialised equipment we have on board to assist in our role of being a Marine Rescue boat.
Posted Jul 6, 2016, 11:46 PM by Posts Editor
Want to improve your navigation skills?Coastal Navigation with Greg Guy;Greg will run a coastal navigation course at the Wooden Boat Centre, two weeknights per week, 26th July – 8th September. The course is designed to give students practical knowledge and basic navigation skills for safe boating. Two practical boating sessions on weekend days will be included as part of the course. This will give students the opportunity to get on the water and practice applied knowledge. Suitable dates for the on water practical components of the course will be negotiated with the group on course commencement. No prior boating or navigation knowledge is necessary.Course duration: 6.30 – 9pmTuesday and Thursday nights for 6 weeks.Tuition fees: $360 (or $240 for Living Boat Trust …
Posted Jun 15, 2017, 3:13 PM by Posts Editor
Bargain Mid Winter Rates on Nancy to HuonvilleTo celebrate mid-winter, the Living Boat Trust is offering three opportunities to cruise from Franklin to Huonville and return, at once-only VERY special prices. Now that the new long-range lithium batteries have been installed and tested thanks to Brian Marriot and his team, Nancy can reliably take passengers on longer journeys. Thank you once again to our generous benefactor Martin Krynen for his support in purchasing the new batteries.Nancy will depart Franklin at 10.30am on the July 16,17,18 for Huonville and return.Adults $40Conc $30Child $20Bookings at nancywintercruise.gmail.comPhone 62664441mv-nancy-tours.org
Posted Jul 6, 2016, 12:55 AM by Posts Editor
Wanna Be Engaged?Received from Huon Valley Council…….Good afternoon, Council is conducting a Community Engagement in regards to a Huon D’Entrecasteaux boundary adjustment. Could you please share the link below;http://www.huonvalley.tas.gov.au/consultations/huon-dentrecasteaux/
Posted Jul 5, 2016, 4:49 PM by Posts Editor
Belgian Canal CapersFrom Hans and Nell, from an inner city mooring in Ghent, Belgium……We ate our moules in Dunkirk, sailing along the coast from Calais. Into the canals and Belgium the back way, heading for Ypres and the memorials of the great war, just because they were there and our interest in world wars had been awakened at Dover Castle and operation Dynamo, the evacuation at Dunkirk. Different wars but hey…Ypres and the surrounding region was completely devastated, a huge, muddy wasteland, but when the locals were asked whether they wanted a modern city they unanimously opted for a complete restoration of their familiar home. Truly a wonder to behold today.On to Bruges, a medieval jewel and city of …
Posted Jul 5, 2016, 4:41 PM by Posts Editor
Walking on WaterThe Tuesday workshop team regularly perform miracles – here is their latest, walking on water during an unusually high tide
Posted Jul 1, 2016, 12:50 AM by Posts Editor
From Franklin to the World ChampionshipsOn Monday 11 July, the regular LBT dinner will be an official farewell to our LBT team who are off to Northern Ireland to compete in the world St Ayles Skiff championships. Jilly will be the head chef – book early to make sure of a space.
Posted Jul 1, 2016, 12:47 AM by Posts Editor
Stunning Models Visit LBTUnfortunately, not Kate Moss or Naomi Campbell…… but a beautiful model of a 1940’s British trawler (complete with bow-thruster) plus a model schooner.Graham Wright writes…..Paul Frost one of our newer members to the Tuesday/Thursday group surprised us today with a couple of model boats he has built.These are not only beautifully built with amazing detail but they are radio controlled and can be put through their paces in the water.Watch this space for more images when they are launched in the river.
Posted Jun 28, 2016, 4:54 PM by Posts Editor
Diesel Course at Franklin MarineOne of the great advantages enjoyed by the Living Boat Trust is the strength of maritime community around it. This was demonstrated on Sunday at the diesel course delivered by Laurence Burgin at our neighbours Franklin Marine. Laurence has decades of experience in building and maintaining boats, and all this was used to expand on the excellent notes provided, and inform and illustrate the course with telling anecdotes and very specific information. We students ranged from those of us who were trying to come to grips with our newly purchased but geriatric donks, to others who have cruised the world and just needed a top up on their mechanical expertise. Laurence was able to assist all.
Posted Jun 28, 2016, 3:34 AM by Posts Editor
MAST – Notice to Mariners – Navigation Hazard – Huon RiverMarine and Safety Tasmania: -Notice No.: M109-16:Title: Navigation Hazard – Huon River:Valid From: 27/6/2016 -Valid Until: 27/7/2016 -Notice Content:Mariners are advised that a car has been cut into pieces and disposed of in the water off Franklin rowing ways in the Huon River.Mariners should navigate with caution in the area.
Posted Jun 27, 2016, 7:10 PM by Posts Editor
An Important Message from the LBT CommitteeOne of the things members love about our organization are the varied activities we offer our members.Whether it’s a convivial chat over a great meal at a Monday night dinner, a row or a sail on our wonderful river or honing our skills in the workshop with like minded people.We are lots of things to a lot of people.At the heart of it all, we are a grass roots community group, a not for profit organization, whose aims, among other things are to maintain and celebrate our maritime heritage, pass on skills, and to provide a supportive environment for our members,where they feel welcomed.In recent times concerns have been expressed to the committee regarding …
Posted Jun 24, 2016, 1:24 AM by Posts Editor
Grebes Join Star Studded CastFrom Marcia Waller, Huon Valley Theatre: Remember back when the sun was shining, and our Grebes and the Yukon were being filmed for an upcoming performance at the Huon Valley Theatre….. Now the waiting is over, and you have your chance to ‘spot the Grebe’ in the July production of “Two Tales of a River”.Location – Huonville Town HallEvening and matinee performances, starting 22 July – see posters for more information and details of how to book.
Posted Jun 21, 2016, 11:51 PM by Posts Editor
Busy Days in the New ExtensionFrom Graham Wright The new extension is working well, when the wheels are fitted to the heavy bench and table saw, the space will be even more flexible.With Rowan and Imagine both in the workshop there is still plenty of room to work.Rowan was in pretty poor condition especially the paint work. Peter Hill has been supervising the preparation and choice of paint so it lasts until the next overhaul.Because we are using oil based paint in the cold weather, drying time has become an issue so it will take a little longer to finish than we first thought, but it will be worth it.The finished colours for Rowan will be, Inside hull as in the …
Posted Jun 22, 2016, 4:35 PM by Posts Editor
The World Awaits the Girls from LBTIn preparation for the upcoming St Ayles Skiff World Championships in Northern Ireland in July, team Castle Forbes Bay have been putting in long hours training in rain, wind and fog – additionally mastering the essential Irish skill of downing a pint of Guinness in one go. Equal hours, of course, have been spent deciding what to wear. Here is the final team uniform revealed, together with some other styles that were eliminated in the early rounds.They are representing not just the LBT and Tasmania, but the entire southern hemisphere – no pressure!The Tyrollean team……This was the preferred option for the Ancient Mariners over 60’s rowers uniform…..The unbeatable uniform from Team Columbia…..
Posted Jun 21, 2016, 12:48 AM by Posts Editor
Useful Courses at Franklin MarineAlthough the marine diesel course this coming Sunday is full up, there are still places later in the year (August and September), and also in the Cruising course. See below for links to details. Marine Diesel Engines for Beginners – Covers Engine & Drivetrain | franklinmarine.com.au/dieselclassPreparing your Boat for Cruising – Covers the Other Mechanical & Electrical Systems | franklinmarine.com.au/cruisingworkshopDates, cost and information are all on the respective pages – and people can sign up online directly from there.
Posted Jun 20, 2016, 11:57 PM by Posts Editor
Award Winning Documentary comes to CygnetAmnesty International and Rural Australians for Refugees ( RAR ) local groups invite you to ascreening of Steve Thomas’ award winning documentary, “Freedom Stories”, Sunday 26thJune, at 2.00 pm, in the Cygnet Supper Room, (upstairs from the Town Hall). More details attached.
Posted Jun 19, 2016, 4:41 PM by Posts Editor
Ever-expanding St Ayles Skiff EmpireIt’s all happening in Williamstown – they are seeking women who might be interested in a ‘come and try’ rowing session, then building a skiff, rowing a skiff and eventually competing. Marguerite Porte plans to be there as our representative. Their flyer is attached
Posted Jun 19, 2016, 4:35 PM by Posts Editor
Hans Across the Sea (crewed by Nell of course)Continuing their study tour of the Great Pontoons of Western Europe, Hans and Nell write……… writeFrom HansWe had a great sail across the Channel. Dodged lots of ships and sneaked into Calais to tie up on a mooring. Couldn’t raise them on the radio or phone so either they’re on strike or they’re watching the European cup (football).We will probably just spend the night here since the lock does not open until 22.30, when we will be soundly asleep.Tomorrow to Dunkerque by sea and then we will step ashore on French soil and go and eat some moules et frites.From Nell Hi family and friends. We have arrived in France …
Posted Jun 18, 2016, 4:15 PM by Posts Editor
Membership Subscriptions Due 1 JulySubs plus personal details required fromEVERYONE, please.The LBT has an exciting time ahead.Shed extension is completed, new equipment installed, regularmaintenance continues, new pontoon to be added, Monday night dinners delight,the thrill and excitement of the TN17 and St Ayles Skiff Regatta 2017 and thereis even more messing about in boats, so join us again for the 2016/2017 year.Subs:$40 for a single$70 for a couple or familyPlus $100 per person for rowers (you canstill pay the $5 per week if you prefer)$120 group or corporate membersAny new members who paid in the last 3months (April, May, June) this amount also covers you for the 2016/2017 …
Posted Jun 17, 2016, 1:32 AM by Posts Editor
Stairway to Heaven: Whereabouts UnknownOur very useful ladder that gave access to the treasures of the ‘balcony’ in the LBT has just gone walkabout. If you have borrowed it, we need it back please.
Posted Jun 15, 2016, 11:56 PM by Posts Editor
Flying Fifteen Comes in to LandLBT’s most controversial boat was loaded onto its trailer by Mike Dredge and his assistants. Martin Krynen has very kindly allowed us to store it temporarily in the evaporator sheds until its long-term fate is decided.
Posted Jun 13, 2016, 2:21 AM by Posts Editor
Jetty Mystery SolvedLaurence Burgin writes…..The jetty is the new public jetty paid for jointly by Council and MAST from Recreational Boating Fund.Kelvin Aldridge has shepherded the project through years of hoops – well done Kelvin!So jetty is available for all to use and is in the protected side of the town reach. An application is in for a floating pontoon to be attached. Not sure when it is open, no doubt Kelvin will know.
Posted Jun 13, 2016, 1:19 AM by Posts Editor
Gourmet Dining at LBTKate and her kitchen crew climbed to new heights providing a delicious meal for the 45 visiting members of the Cruising Yacht Club of Tasmania. Surrounded by our usual oars, masts, sails and woodworking gear the members felt right at home. Lawrence kicked off the night with a local wine, HighlandEstate, and cider, Simply Cider, tasting.Tess, Lorrie and Bruce supported Kate on the other side of the kitchen, another successful LBT dinner.
Posted Jun 12, 2016, 6:21 PM by Posts Editor
Mystery Pop-up Jetty at HuonvilleRegular river users will have noticed a substantial jetty which has been very rapidly built opposite the Huonville boat ramp. No signage or contractors details – nothing about it found on Huonville Council or MAST websites. What is it for I wonder?
Posted Jun 10, 2016, 9:34 PM by Posts Editor
Music to Raid ByAlistair McRae writes Long time Raid musician Eleanor Tucker is playing at the Hobart Brewing Company on Monday June 13 from 5-7pm. She will be playing some songs from her soon to be released second album, which I have been lucky enough to get a sneak preview of, it is wonderful. I have been involved in the last four Raids, and if my memory serves me well, which it doesn’t always, I think Eleanor has played on each of these Raids quite often more than one night. It would be great to see a few folks there to support her. If you could sneak this into the newsletter I would be most appreciative
Posted Jun 10, 2016, 12:37 AM by Posts Editor
Tasmanian NightingaleNo, this isn’t the latest bird sighting, but an upcoming tribute to Amy Sherman in HuonvilleFriends of the Theatre RoyalAMY SHERWIN TRIBUTE – THE TASMANIAN NIGHTINGALEA Celebration of Her LifeAs a child, the musically gifted Amy Sherwin, the ‘Tasmanian Nightingale’, starred in manyproductions including the pantomime Puss in Boots, presented in the barn at Inlet Farm which servedas the Huon District Hall in the 1800s.She went on to a very successful career as an opera singer, firstly starring in her home State and thentravelling to sing in New Zealand, Europe and the United States of America to high acclaim. She madevisits back to sing in Australia and she always included Tasmania …
Posted Jun 10, 2016, 12:29 AM by Posts Editor
Skiff goals nutted outFor many months, Margie Porte has been working with other skiff groups in Australia to formulate the aims of the national association. These kinds of statements will become more and more important as St Ayles skiff rowing continues to expand around Australia. For the draft statement of the Association’s purposes, please see attached document.
Posted Jun 5, 2016, 7:50 PM by Posts Editor
Editor takes short sabbatical – stand-ins step upLike any good football team, we have players on the bench warmed up, ready to leap into action. Readers of this column might remember a hiatus a couple of weeks ago. That well oiled machine that is the Living Boat Trust, quickly clicked back into gear and normal service was resumed. Subpoenas for libel or defamation, general complaints, plus items for inclusion and miscellaneous brown envelope cash donations should be sent to Barbara and David at ozskiff@gmail.com Pic by Bestbudbrian
Posted Jun 5, 2016, 2:08 AM by Posts Editor
Antarctica to Queensland all in one dayFascinating weather info revealed on the LBT site……Your LBT homepage sometimes has interesting information. The attached screen shot shows that at 10.39pm on 4th June (Saturday) the temperature was 2.9 degrees – quite balmy by the standards of the recent cold snap. But the interesting bit is that by 7.50am the following morning it was a sweltering 15.4 degrees. A screen refresh brought the summary box up to date. Thanks to Tony Dow for providing all this meteorological information.
Posted Jun 4, 2016, 7:18 PM by Posts Editor
No Roamin’ for Rowan – at least not for a whileGraham Rankin reports……Rowan is in for some overdue TLC. We are planning on converting what you see into a thing of beauty. Allan used a sponge to get the rest of the water out and then a heat gun to start the drying process. A lot of the dark blue will have to be taken back to the wood to prepare a surface ready for painting. Due to the poor condition of the paintwork we are estimating 3 to 4 weeks at least.When complete we will start on the Grebes, they are in better condition so a slightly shorter time. Our plan is to do this each year between June and August so the fleet is ready for …
Posted Jun 3, 2016, 2:42 AM by Posts Editor
Nothin’ Dooen – and other famous sinkingsNOTICE TO MARINERSNotice No.: M75-16;Title: Navigation Hazard– Port Huon;Valid From: 1/6/2016;Valid Until: 10/6/2016;Notice Content:;Mariners are advised that the vessel ‘Dooen’, a 13.72 metre (45 foot) ex tug, has sunk on mooring 9765 at Port Huon in position at 43⁰ 09.53’ S / 146⁰ 58.358’ E .;The vessel is not visible at high tide.;Attempts are being made to remove the vessel. ;Mariners should navigate with caution in this area.;
Posted Jun 1, 2016, 11:29 PM by Posts Editor
Montague Whaler: Jutland Centenary SpecialTucked away alongside the Franklin Wooden Boat School is a significant piece of naval history which students from Huonville High School and others are helping to restore. Badly damaged when a flood swept it onto a bridge pier, this 27 foot naval whaler is one of the few remaining examples of a once ubiquitous boat type. All major warships from Canada, Australia, New Zealand and of course the British Navy would have used them as ships boats from the 1890’s right up to the 1960’s. Whalers would have been on the scene at Gallipoli, Jutland, Dunkirk, D-Day and Korea. The Franklin boat now appears to have most of its structural repairs completed and when finished will be …
Posted Jun 1, 2016, 11:24 PM by Posts Editor
Beat the rush and register for the next Tawe Nunnugah Raid (tn17) now.We would love to see old friends and longstanding members of the Living Boat Trust in the 2017 Raid, but to be fair to everyone, if we are oversubscribed we will offer priority to those people who apply early – so get your EOI in now and beat the rush (go to: http://lbt.rforster.org/tn17 for more information. The 2017 tawe nunnugah Raid begins in Recherche Bay on Wednesday 1 February and finishes at the start of the Australian Wooden Boat Festival in Hobart in Friday 10 February. The journey will take the fleet of small rowing and sailing boats from Recherche Bay at the edge of Tasmania’s southwest wilderness up the D’Entrecasteaux Channel along the beautiful …
Posted May 30, 2016, 10:49 PM by Posts Editor
The Dutch really love their leeboardsWriting about Dutch boat builders last week reminded me of a visit to the Dutch traditional boat show at Enkhuizen a few years ago. Leeboards are unusual in Australia as a means of reducing leeway (going sideways under sail) but very popular in Holland in all sizes of boat. The grey shapes outside the LBT shed are not 1950’s modernistic coffee table tops, but leeboards for our own Gretchen, eagerly waiting to be used.
Posted May 29, 2016, 9:14 PM by Posts Editor
MAST conduct root and branch investigationMarine and Safety Tasmania——————————————-Notice No.: M70-16Title: Navigation Hazard – Huon RiverValid From: 26/05/2016Valid Until: 28/05/2016Notice Content: A large floating tree has been sighted in the Huon River in position: 43 degrees 12.9 / 147 degrees 01.3 Mariners should navigate with caution in the area.
Posted May 26, 2016, 4:48 AM by Posts Editor
Flying Dutchmen Coming Here….Avid followers of the wooden boat scene will know that 6 young Dutch boat builders from Amsterdam will be in Franklin constructing a 16 square metre sailboat at the Wooden Boat School from early November. This boat will go on display at the 2017 Wooden Boat Festival in Hobart.They are looking for home-stay hosts in or near Franklin who can offer one or more berths. Want to help? Call the AWBF office on (03) 6223 3375 or drop an email to manager@australianwoodenboatfestival.com.au.The classic Dutch boat in the picture is nothing like the boat they will be building, which is a 16 square metre which is not unlike our own beloved Flying Fifteen
Posted May 26, 2016, 12:43 AM by Posts Editor
Short Recreational and Trade Courses at the Wooden Boat Centre, FranklinCome and join us in the Boat Shed. A wider range of short courses are now on offer for 2016 and 2017.View this email in your browserBoatbuilding courses for recreation and for those wishing to gain skills to enter the wooden boat building industry. We are now offering a wider range of short courses that will give people a choice of options in different types of wooden boat building and restoration. Alternatively you may like to stay with us for a longer period of time and learn multiple aspects of wooden boat building, design and restoration. You can finish a course on a Friday and start another on a Monday. We hope there is a course for you …
Posted May 26, 2016, 12:27 AM by Posts Editor
Ship Shape and Bristol Fashion at Franklin Marine – one day courseHave you been hoping to take your boat cruising?We think you’ll find this one-day course will give you the knowledge and confidence you need to getaway from the dock!Laurence has just finished revising his previously popularPreparing your Boat for Cruising course guide. We are now calling for an expression of interest to see who would be interested and which dates would suit you best.Did you enjoy Marine Diesel Engines for Beginners?This course is considered thenext level of our popular Marine Diesel Engines for Beginners course, and will teach you how to maintain the rest of your boat in the same fun and informative environment.If you would like to come along …
Posted May 26, 2016, 12:23 AM by Posts Editor
Pontoon PlaytimeIn scenes reminiscent of valiant tugmen towing the Mulberry Harbours to the D-Day landings, Mike Dredge and Hans pulled donated pontoons upriver to Franklin. These will be used in our new jetty facility. Cruise ships will soon be docking at the LBT.
Posted May 20, 2016, 11:08 PM by Posts Editor
Well done WOW!Friday night saw another fantastic event, organised by the amazing ladies from Women on Water. Great food, entertaining film and over $2500 raised for the LBT coffers. Wonderful result.
Posted May 20, 2016, 8:02 PM by Posts Editor
St Ayles Skiff Regatta 2017 – newsletter #1First newsletter for the 2017 regatta attached below. A not-to-be-missed date for your diaries – Saturday 18 and Sunday 19 February 2017. Opening ceremony on afternoon of Friday 17 February. More details to follow…..
Posted May 19, 2016, 6:54 PM by Posts Editor
History ChannelTwo interesting snippets from our Tasmanian Maritime Museums1. A talk on accessing Australia’s maritime archives – to be held in the Royal Society Rooms at the Tasmanian Museum and Art Gallery Tuesday 7 June at 12 noon.2. Regular newsletter from Devonport’s Bass Strait Maritime Museum – see PDF file belowPlease find attached a copy of the latest issue of th Bass Strait MHaritime Centre News.
Posted May 18, 2016, 11:02 PM by Posts Editor
R and R for ImagineYesterday afternoon, the Huon River’s hardest working boat was paddled into dry dock for Refurbishment and Restoration. Helpers of all skill levels are needed to bring this boat back to her former glory. Come down to the shed Wednesdays and find out how you can help.
Posted May 16, 2016, 10:06 PM by Posts Editor
Wooden Boat Festival UpdateFor the latest newsletter, see the following link
Posted May 16, 2016, 5:29 PM by Posts Editor
Curry and Movie nightDon’t forget revised date – this Friday 20 May, doors open 6pm. Only $20 for curry, dessert and movie. Best value in the Valley!!
Posted May 16, 2016, 5:15 PM by Posts Editor
Margaret Forster memorial servicePalais Theatre, Franklin; Friday, 13th May; Doors open 1pm; Ceremonies begin 2pm; If you want to contribute a photo, picture, or something written please come before 2pm and put it on the board provided;If you wish contribute something to the ceremony please contact richardfrankforster@gmail.com ; If you are staying for the wake please bring a plate.
Posted May 7, 2016, 7:14 PM by Posts Editor
LBT News ColumnThis column is having a short vacation whilst we get reorganised. Patience please.
Posted May 5, 2016, 7:45 AM by Posts Editor
RIP Margaret ForsterMargaret died peacefully this (Thursday) morning at Royal Hobart Hospital. There will be a memorial service and wake. Stay tuned. Pic of Margaret sewing the LBT flag
Posted May 7, 2016, 7:30 AM by Posts Editor
Curry and Movie nightIt was so good last time it was worth a reprise. Come along to the Palais on Friday 13th May at 6pm. Details in the flyer below.
Posted Apr 30, 2016, 5:06 AM by Posts Editor
Farewell LBT post boxThe postal service has jacked up the annual cost of our box to the point where it’s not worth keeping it, especially when we can have mail delivered directly to the shed. From now on all correspondence should be sent to 3337 Huon Hwy Franklin, 7113 The eagle eyed will have noticed that the LBT logo in the website header now sports our internet address rather than the old postal one. We are busy combing through the electronic stationary making the requisite changes, but it may take some time. Sarah at the Post Office knows who we are and can put anything that is misdirected back on the right path.
Posted Apr 28, 2016, 7:18 PM by Posts Editor
Members Meeting, Monday 9th MayAny members interested in having an influence on the issues the committee is considering should come along to the shed before dinner at 5.30pm on this date. We’ll have a look at the minutes of the last committee meeting (see http://bit.ly/1TfzB9Q) to get us going and take it from there. The LBT lives and dies by the involvement of us all, and we hope that regular meetings of this type will help spread the word, generate good ideas, and get us all pulling together.
Posted Apr 28, 2016, 2:23 AM by Posts Editor
The SV Rhona H and the saga of the BellJohn Wadsley from the Maritime Museum writes: ‘Please find attached the flyer (http://bit.ly/1VW1Hh2) for the next MMT lunchtime talk, to be heldnext Tuesday 3 May 2016 at 12 noon at the Royal Society Room, TMAG. This time we have the owners and crew of the SV Rhona H recounting some of the tales of this beautiful Tasmanian ketch and the restoration work currently going on.’ Those of us who were in Franklin on Australia Day have happy memories of watching the Rhona H sailing up the Huon. Pic from Aspen Cauchi
Posted Apr 28, 2016, 7:43 PM by Posts Editor
At the movies: Dead CalmComing up at the Palais Theatre in Franklin this Sunday night (1st May) is this classic ‘on the water’ film, starring our Nic (Kidman). Doors open at 6.30 for a start around 7pm: bring a plate and a gold coin.
Posted Apr 27, 2016, 3:29 PM by Posts Editor
Shed Warming Party, Tuesday 10th MayWe need to launch the new extension, and Tuesday 10th, 3.30-8.00pm has been chosen as a good time for a party. Starting in daylight hours means we can include some on the water activities, for instance Nancy excursions in the festivities. There will a short session for formalities at 6.30pm, but apart from that it will be fairly free and easy. We’ll fire up the BBQ and some food and drink will be provided, but if you aren’t a special guest and haven’t been closely involved in the build please make a contribution. More details to follow: put it in your diary. avi
Posted Apr 28, 2016, 6:28 PM by Posts Editor
LBT members at large columnDeb Van Velsen is at the ‘start of 10 days camping on Big Green Island off Flinders Is. as a Parks volunteer on a rat baiting program‘. Follow her on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/debvanv
Posted Apr 26, 2016, 5:10 PM by Posts Editor
Working Bee at Matt’s, May 1st Matt and Gill write: ‘Following the great success of the last working bee earth rendering our straw bale house we are coming close to finishing sealing up the straw before winter! We are planning another Session on Sunday 1st May in a final push. A very BIG thank you to all those who joined us for the last session which was great fun. For the poor people who missed all the mudding action and those who wish to return for more, we would love to see you all on Sunday from 9 am onward. Lunch provided. If you can please let us know if you can make it for catering. Anyone who wants to join in without getting too muddy …
Posted Apr 26, 2016, 5:11 PM by Posts Editor
Winter season dinners to begin at 7 o’clockCooks have decided to serve Monday dinners a little earlier now that daylight is fading. Pic from http://www.freeimages.com
Posted Apr 26, 2016, 4:48 PM by Posts Editor
Inspiration for the next LBT build?Friend of the LBT Brian Tyler pointed to this collection of interesting vehicles/vessels: bit.ly/1SCf2a3 . We aren’t sure that the anchor in the example shown below would hold on shifting ground, but otherwise … Pic from http://www.joe-ks.com/archives_may2012/SOV.htm
Posted Apr 23, 2016, 9:19 PM by Posts Editor
Grebes in the frameThe next Huon Valley Theatre production involves some multimedia, and today (Sunday) they were filming segments of a dinghy rowing race in colonial times. Yukon was out taking advantage of the northerly breeze, and provided some nice context. We look forward to opening night – see the flyer for ‘Two tales of a river’ below and book at http://www.huonvalleytheatre.com/
Posted Apr 23, 2016, 10:20 PM by Posts Editor
Deploying the pontoonsHans Sipsma has supplied this latest plan for mooring the pontoon near Cartela. The advantages of it is that it: provides a new home for Nancy; maximises the amount of wharf space for mooring other boats;makes use of relatively sheltered, easily accessed water, near the landing beach;places the pontoon well clear of the marina.
Posted Apr 21, 2016, 4:38 PM by Posts Editor
Garage Sale at the Palais: Sunday June 12thBarbara Dawson writes: ‘Time to look through your cupboards and sheds for buried treasure that will make your fortune if you sell it at the Palais Garage Sale. $15 for a site, plus $5 for a trestle table. All proceeds go to preservation of Franklin Palais Theatre. Bookings through Noel on 6266 3480 or noelwoodrow@bigpond.com – hurry, sites are selling fast!’
Posted Apr 21, 2016, 4:09 PM by Posts Editor
Yay! Lockup!Graham Rankin and the team hung the front doors on the extension today (Wednesday). Congratulations to all concerned, it looks great.
Posted Apr 20, 2016, 3:10 PM by Posts Editor
Fleet becalmedLooks like the autumn airs will be too light to propel the Grebes this afternoon (Monday April 18th): lets postpone sailing to another day.
Posted Apr 17, 2016, 2:41 PM by Posts Editor
Extra navigation marks for the riverLaurence Burgin writes: I have submitted an application to the MAST Recreational Boat Fund for the third year running, and think we are in with a good chance this year to get extra navigation marks between Castle Forbes Bay and Franklin. Check the following linkand scroll to Page 63: http://www.mast.tas.gov.au/wp-content/uploads/2014/07/Web-Site-2016-RBF-Applications.pdf. We have a lot of boats go aground each year which is unfortunate and bad for reputation of the port of Franklin. We need some folks to come to the forum to support the proposal at Hobart:Wednesday, 11 May at 7.00pm; Bellerive Yacht Club; Cambridge Road, Bellerive. We could go as …
Posted Apr 17, 2016, 4:27 PM by Posts Editor
Pontoon DesignWe have been in discussion with the marine engineer Murray Isles about how best to refurbish our pontoons, and following a suggestion from Hans Sipsma to move the flotation to the outside, Murray has come up with the design attached: bit.ly/23M3Bl5 . This design uses each of the steel pontoons (currently sitting down near Cartela) as a core, with 3 large rectangular floats down either side. It gives the stability and carrying capacity required, and minimises that amount of construction work required. We already have 4 of the floats in the sitting in the new extension, but will need eight more to complete the project. ANYBODY KNOW WHERE WE CAN OBTAIN SOME EXTRA FLOTATION?? The current plan is to …
Posted Apr 17, 2016, 4:34 AM by Posts Editor
AWBF newsletterThe latest from the Australian Wooden Boat Festival. Paul Cullen writes: ‘Here’s your copy of the latest news from the MyState Australian Wooden Boat Festival. The date that many of you have been waiting for has arrived (well, almost!) Expressions of Interest (EOIs) for Boats Afloat in the 2017 festival will open on Monday morning, April 18. It’s not a race – all EOIs go to our selection panel for careful review and the selection is made from the pool of all entries received by the closing date, Monday 17 October. But it doesn’t hurt to get your EOI in early: the judges can only work with what we’ve received. Take your time and make your EOI …
Posted Apr 13, 2016, 3:54 PM by Posts Editor
Skiffs to Kangaroo Island?Steve Coombs is currently sailing the family boat from Perth to Franklin. At Monday night dinner we heard from Corinne about his visit to American River on Kangaroo Island, and how he had been impressed with the community’s plans to build the replica schooner ‘Independence‘ (see pic below, and story at (http://bit.ly/1Vneuc5)). On Tuesday we received a call from Rob Ayliffe inviting us down to visit this community, and were able to say (portentously) ‘we know all about that’. Thanks Corinne! As to the invitation: it will take a while to get the schooner project up and running, and there is enthusiasm to build a St Ayles Skiff in the interim. The plan is to have …
Posted Apr 12, 2016, 8:31 PM by Posts Editor
Ruth Young newsUnfortunately there were complications after the amputation below the knee that Ruth had three weeks ago. She has had to have a further operation – this time above the knee. John tells us that she is doing well and is comfortable. If you wish to visit her then that should be ok later this week – after Thursday.
Posted Apr 12, 2016, 4:29 PM by Posts Editor
Mud, mud glorious mud Matt Wardell writes; ‘Do you think you could put a little note on the LBT web about our earth rendering working bee on Sunday for those that didn’t make it last night? We are trying to make a big push to get the straw bales sealed up before winter: lot 96 Cemetery Road, Dover; Sunday 17th9 am start; bring some old cloths and prepare to get muddy; lunch provided; please call or email if you can come; Matt 0428 279 002; email: svwooshee@gmail.com. ‘
Posted Apr 11, 2016, 9:30 PM by Posts Editor
River to RainforestOur friends at the Wooden Boat Centre, ‘Yukon‘ and Franks Cider want to remind people about their ‘River to Rainforest’ tour. Might suit interstate visitors especially. Book at bit.ly/1YqEbWx. Nice that the Huon Pine is now ‘famous’ and not ‘infamous’ on their poster (see below). Ah, typos. On a related note, David Nash tells us that there have been more than 1,000 passengers on Yukon this season, which is fantastic.
Posted Apr 11, 2016, 5:33 PM by Posts Editor
Sailing Monday 11th AprilBoth Meteye and Willy Weather have the winds dying away on Monday to breezes much more manageable than the gales which caused the Southport expedition to be called off on Sunday. If these predictions are correct lets assemble to rig up the Grebes around 3pm.
Posted Apr 10, 2016, 1:48 AM by Posts Editor
Invitation to ‘Viking’ supportersNo, this isn’t the ‘Viking’ that is sitting on the LBT front verandah, but rather the yacht that is being restored by Stephan Vogel (see pic below). Stefan writes:‘The Viking has made it safely to her next destination at Barrys shipyard in Goodwood. While I am pondering on what to do with the Boat and whether to restore her to a plain historic boat or more like a cruising yacht as she was used after retiring from the active racing duty I’d like to invite everyone who has help me and the Viking along the way. Please find attached a flier (http://bit.ly/25SiRPw) for the Thank You BBQ held on Friday April 15 at the …
Posted Apr 11, 2016, 10:22 PM by Posts Editor
Stunt double rowers wanted for film segmentMike from Huon Valley Theatre Company writes:‘HVT is staging ‘Two Tales of A River’ in July and August. This involves two locally written one-act musicals, both set on the Huon River, and both featuring conventional acting on stage mixed with some videoed sequences. In each play there is a boat race to be filmed. We are looking at two grebes and at this stage it seems we need six rowers as stunt doubles. The rowers are important because, seeing as they are racing, we need the rowers to look half-way competent!’More from Mike attached – http://bit.ly/1Mj9oKy. We think this should be a lot of fun. Date and time is dependent on weather. If you …
Posted Apr 8, 2016, 4:31 PM by Posts Editor
Southport excursion cancelledHans Sipsma and Barb Dawson write:‘Winds forecast for Southport on Sunday to get to 50-60 km/hr – plus 85% chance of rain. Not ideal conditions for skiffing, so weekend postponed for another time.’
Posted Apr 6, 2016, 4:24 PM by Posts Editor
Recognise any of these chaps?Alis Wood has sent the following notice: Celebrating the May Queen. Do you remember the May Queen in her hey-day, or late-day, as a trading ketch? Have stories of her racing feats passed down through your family? Or tales of life on board? The grand old lady is turning 150 next year and a film is being made to celebrate. Documentary crew, the Old Ships Company, would love to hear from you if you have a fond memory or a story to tell. Please get in touch with Alis Wood by phone, mail or email: Email: alis@oldshipscompany.com.au; Phone: 0418 659 493; Mailing address: The Old Ships Company, PO Box 205, North Hobart, 7002. Photo from …
Posted Apr 6, 2016, 4:25 PM by Posts Editor
Twas homeward bound one night on the deepLaurence Burgin took the photo below whilst passing Cape Howe on his way south to Tasmania. More pics at https://www.instagram.com/franklinmarineau/
Posted Apr 4, 2016, 7:58 PM by Posts Editor
Great News! HRVista weather is backTony Dow has sorted out his problems and the top right hand corner of the LBT home page again features a weather summary from the HRVista weather site. Click on it and you get all the details (hrvistaweather.com), customised and curated by Tony for we lucky people on the Huon River.
Posted Apr 3, 2016, 3:13 PM by Posts Editor
Sailing MondaysTomorrow (April 3rd) is looking good: warmish and gentle breezes. We need to take advantage before the cold weather sets in. Convene from 3pm on to rig up, with a view to getting out on the water by 4pm or sooner.
Posted Apr 3, 2016, 5:12 AM by Posts Editor
PontoonsThe engineer’s report provided by Murray Isles was discussed by a meeting at the shed two weeks ago. We are expecting a reply to some queries to Murray by tomorrow, and should have the opportunity to discuss them: 5.30pm at the shed. Peter Heading and Richard Forster drew up a draft plan to follow once we have decided on an option: see bit.ly/1UAGyYM. All other documents relating to pontoons are available at bit.ly/1RG9GrL
Posted Apr 3, 2016, 5:08 AM by Posts Editor
Community tall shipThe plans for building a tall ship in Franklin have been drawn up, but it looks like Sausolito in California have stolen a march on us. Marguerite Porte spotted the release of a film about this build: good collection of pictures etc at webuiltaship.com . Pic from webuiltaship.com
Posted Apr 3, 2016, 5:37 AM by Posts Editor
Yet another St Ayles?Di and Ian Moncrieff write: ‘Thank you Franklin and the LBT for your warm inclusion of us (again) during this most blissful of summers. Our annual summer pilgrimages continue. Spending time on our vessel ‘Pied Piper II’ in your river, we witness the intense usage of ‘Imagine’ and ‘Billy’. We see the ruddy and happy faces that return after early morning or twilight rows. And how exciting to see the new one nearing completion in the WBCT workshop. So when we read in The Classifieds free weekly, of a mooted second St Ayles for Cygnet, we put up our hands, well the promise of a few dollars actually, to help. May we encourage others to contribute if they can, to …
Posted Apr 2, 2016, 9:36 PM by Posts Editor
MHOOT Seminar, 5th MayJohn Wadsley from the Maritime Museum writes to tell us about a seminar organised by the Marine History Organisations of Tasmania (MHOOT):‘Just in time for Easter I can distribute the program and registration details for the upcoming MHOoT Seminar to be held on Thursday 5 May at TMAG in Hobart. This year’s seminar is titled “Old Things, New Ways and Snake Oil – Collections, Displays and Marketing” and we have a great selection of speakers and topics to be presented. We hope this will be as successful as last year’s seminar. It will be held in the Centre for Learning and Discovery, at TMAG in Hobart. Many thanks to TMAG for their support of this event. All the …
Posted Mar 30, 2016, 2:45 PM by Posts Editor
More Ruth Young newsWe poked our heads in to see Ruth today (Wednesday 30th), and whilst not exactly chuffed about the situation she is in reasonable spirits. The operation was a success. She is at Hobart Private (next to the Royal), and is receiving visitors, outside the hours of 2pm-4pm. It might be best to check with the hospital before going in, as she is having ongoing treatment.
Posted Mar 30, 2016, 3:55 AM by Posts Editor
Ruth Young newsAs a result of longstanding problems Ruth has had to have a leg amputated below the knee. John tells us that she is recovering well, but is still in some pain. She will let us know when she is ready to receive visitors. It was a shock to hear this news, and we all wish her the best for a speedy recovery. John meantime is staying with family in Hobart. As most people know, Ruth has been a stalwart of the LBT, and was one of the key people who helped establish it. Pic Susan Moore
Posted Mar 22, 2016, 11:10 PM by Posts Editor
Shed roof going onGraham Rankin writes:‘An 8 o’clock start saw just over a third of the new roof go on today, with the next third (or better) next Wednesday. The apprentices, Pete and Graham had a hard time keeping up with Willis as the master showed us just how it’s done.’
Posted Mar 22, 2016, 10:35 PM by Posts Editor
Fund raiser for Fiji: Alpine MelodiesMarcia Waller writes that Rotary has organised this concert to raise funds to assist Fiji after the recent cyclone:Thursday 14 th April 2016, beginning at 7.30pm; at the Huonville Town Hall, Huonville. This concert will feature close to 50 performers with another visit to the Huon Valley by the MELI – MELO CHOIR. The evening will offer a program of music ranging from Sacred, Folk, Yodelling, Interlude with Alphorn and Bells, Accordion, Violin & Clarinet. Special performers will be the CANBERRA AUSTRIAN CHOIR. Bookings would be appreciated with Trudy on 62641311. $15pp with light supper at the Town Hall after the concert.
Posted Mar 22, 2016, 6:22 PM by Posts Editor
Restoring boats on Norfolk IslandMaritime Museum of Tasmania Lunch Time Talk – 5 April 2016; Time: 12.00-1.00pm, Tuesday 5 April 2016; Place: Royal Society Room, Tasmanian Museum and Art Gallery, Customs House, 19 Davey St entrance; Phone Maritime Museum on 6234 1427 for more details. ‘Norfolk Island has always fascinated Bill Foster, with the island’s convict and maritime history and particularly the final settlement by the descendants of the Bounty mutiny. Virtually all heavy cargo to Norfolk Island comes in by ship, mostly from NSW and New Zealand. There are no harbours on the island and only two landing spots, one on the south-east and the other on the north-western coast. All cargo is lifted into waiting lighters from …
Posted Mar 22, 2016, 6:04 PM by Posts Editor
Southport Lune River mini RaidProposed Mini Raid or Long Row; Southport/Lune River. Weekend of 9/10 April. Some of us have Raid Withdrawal Symptoms, others have Long Row Envy, so without further ado, let’s get on the water again soon. There are two options open to those who are interested. A two day trip; camping overnight at Southport Hotel Campsite. [Evening meal at pub, breakfast BYO, Camp kitchen, electric BBQ.] We meet at the boat ramp at 9 am, launch our boats and row/sail around Southport Bay, perhaps as far as Southport Island depending on sea state. [length of row/sail could be 10 km]. A late lunch could be on a sheltered beach back towards the narrows. There is a …
Posted Mar 22, 2016, 3:14 PM by Posts Editor
St Ayles Skiff AssociationAt a breakfast meeting at the Geelong St Ayles Skiff Regatta it was decided that the time has come for to form a national St Ayles Skiff Association. Pat Groot from Warrnambool and Peter Doyle from Geelong were tasked with getting this underway, with representatives from each of the groups being identified. Marguerite Porte will look after Tasmanian interests. Pat Groot has sent out an initial document: see https://goo.gl/1hCmWw Pic from Bob Hawkins
Posted Mar 30, 2016, 3:58 AM by Posts Editor
River to RainforestEa Lassen writes: ‘After months of preparation, this brand new experience is ready to tell you the story of the famous Huon Pine, from river to rainforest. Over the Easter break (27th and 28th March) River to Rainforest would like to open its doors to you, for the first time, with a special 10% discount (voucher code “R2REaster”). For bookings, visit http://rivertorainforest.com.au/’ Flyer for launch attached: http://bit.ly/1UgzroC
Posted Mar 22, 2016, 2:13 AM by Posts Editor
Geelong Wooden Boat Festival and Regatta ReportA report for our sponsors, the Huon Valley Community Bank who funded transport to this festival for ‘Billy‘, can be viewed at bit.ly/2580dCU. The overall summary of this event was that it was a big success and our participation well worth it. Thanks to the Community Bank.
Posted Mar 20, 2016, 2:43 PM by Posts Editor
PontoonsOur engineer’s report has arrived, and there will be a meeting at the shed this evening (Monday 21st March) at 5pm to discuss the various options. For documents concerning this topic see bit.ly/1Uee875
Posted Mar 20, 2016, 2:31 PM by Posts Editor
LBT committee meeting this weekThe agenda (so far) includes:reports on activities during the last month, including the extension build and the Geelong Festival and Regatta; Tawe Nunnugah 2017; getting the subcommittee system work better; ‘On the Water Day’ for refugee youth; getting organised for the 2107 Wooden Boat Festival time;possible expeditions: Lake Pedder, Maria Island, Southport; pontoons. If you want your say contact one of your local LBT committee members (they are listed on the website: bit.ly/1puhRQp), or email the secretary: sec@lbt.org.au, or simply show up Friday night 25th March, 6pm at the shed. As always, minutes of previous meetings can be found on the website: bit.ly/1UedtCv
Posted Mar 20, 2016, 2:10 PM by Posts Editor
‘Pedalling Back’ at the Palais TheatreCarolyn Booker writes:’The Palais Theatre inFranklin with host the new Tasperforms’ performance ‘PEDALLINGBACK’ which will commence its regional tour in Franklin on 30March. The show was written and is performed by acclaimed actor JeffMichel who has appeared in many Tasmanian productions such as TheWizard of Oz, Beauty and the Beast and A Funny Thing Happened on theWay to the Forum and is showing now at the Theatre Royal in Hobart. Jeff relives his fantasy childhood in the production by employingcomedy, storytelling, puppetry and music as only he can. A shortpromo video can be viewed at:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=S9eaM0Q58Vo. It is always special to be able to view …
Posted Mar 17, 2016, 11:55 PM by Posts Editor
Bittern raffle drawChris Butler writes: ‘Four hundred tickets and months later, the Bitterns Raffle is about to be drawn. And what better place than the LBT weekly dinner. This Monday, the 21st of March, the fortunate winners will be picked out of the hat, or the pot, or the bag, and given almost all of Franklin has a ticket in their pocket everyone is welcome to participate. The winners will be contacted individually to collect their many and varied prizes. Sincere thanks from the Bitterns rowing group to all those who parted with their five bucks or multiples thereof.’
Posted Mar 17, 2016, 2:21 AM by Posts Editor
Quick ‘n dirty boat buildingThis style of event is usually for kids, but at Geelong the grown ups had a go. It was great to see so much dignity put on the line. Maybe a possible inclusion in future events at Franklin? Pics from Martin Riddle
Posted Mar 14, 2016, 1:40 PM by Posts Editor
AWBF NewsletterFor the latest news from Paul Cullen and his merry people see http://bit.ly/1YPEBH4 . Of particular interest is the story of the Fazackerley dinghy pictured below, restored by the Channel Men’s Shed.
Posted Mar 13, 2016, 10:48 PM by Posts Editor
All that lovely woodA Wooden Boat Festival should, if nothing else, feature wood, and Geelong has not disappointed. See pics below.
Posted Mar 14, 2016, 3:15 AM by Posts Editor
Billy at GeelongBillie‘ has joined quite a fleet of her kin at the yacht club marina: ‘Dotsie’ from WA, ‘John Liddie’ from SA, ‘Fast Messenger’ from Warrnambool and ‘Cariad’ from Melbourne. She has already been busy taking out various community groups who want to test themselves on the water. The Huon Valley Community Bank marquee has been placed strategically so that anybody wandering out onto the pier has to first get past the Living Boat Trust press gang.
Posted Mar 12, 2016, 4:05 PM by Posts Editor
Drinkies at GeelongMany of us remember ‘Notorious’, the spectacularly evil looking Portuguese caravel replica, from her visit to Franklin. Her home port is Geelong, and her owners very generously made her available for a welcoming ‘cocktail’ (read beer) party for all we ozzie Skiffies participating in the Geelong Wooden Boat Festival. Not so long ago ‘we ozzie Skiffies’ were exclusively Tasmanians, but now there are Western Australians, South Australians, and a variety of Victorian groups who have joined us, so unfortunately the beer has to stretch that much further.
Posted Mar 12, 2016, 3:55 PM by Posts Editor
Skiffs at Cygnet Regatta: this coming Sunday 13th MarchLorrie Harrison writes: ‘Carolyn Booker will be taking ‘Imagine’ over for the event. Even if you are not in a crew, go over, you could be needed in a boat. If you are in a crew then take everyone over. It will be good fun!’ The rowing regatta is a casual, friendly affair, part of the Cygnet Yachting Regatta for 2016, from 08.45 to 11.30. Presentation of prizes for individual events and the Inaugural Perpetual Trophy will be at 11.45 after an official row pass and salute to the commodore of the club. Women’s; Men’s; Mixed Team; A point for each entrant and 3 points to the winner; 1 km course with one turn; Under …
Posted Mar 10, 2016, 3:57 AM by Posts Editor
All hands on deckLatest pics of cladding the new shed walls and putting in the windows from Graham Wright below.
Posted Mar 9, 2016, 4:46 PM by Posts Editor
Where’s Billie?She’s on the hard at Geelong, overshadowed by the looming yachts of the Geelong squadron brought up onto the multiple slips and hard stands all around her. Apparently there are dozens of crews anticipated for the weekend regatta and only five rowing skiffs, so she will be busy then.
Posted Mar 8, 2016, 10:12 PM by Posts Editor
Monday SailingMike Dredge is back from New Caledonia, and will be waiting for sailors from about 3.30pm on this afternoon (March 7th). Come down and join us.
Posted Mar 6, 2016, 1:30 PM by Posts Editor
The Bittern’s DinnerChris Butler writes: Sixty two people happily crammed into the LBT last week for a three course dinner to raise funds for the completion of the ‘Bittern‘, the St. Ayles skiff being built at the Wooden Boat Centre. It was an incredible sight to see elegantly settled tables slotted in between the butch machinery, sick boats under repair and the paraphernalia of a working boat shed, resounding with the merry chatter of guests from throughout the Huon Valley and beyond. Bittern team rower Jo Duffy co-opted Christie Sweeting and Alice Holder, two willing friends from Hobart, to create an exotic Mediterranean-style meal that asserts the LBT as the greatest restaurant in town and judging from the congratulatory emails …
Posted Mar 6, 2016, 1:10 PM by Posts Editor
Great aluminium monstrosityWe have high hopes that this ugly duckling can be converted to a beautiful swan of a walkway to our new (yet to be constructed) pontoons. One step at a time. Thanks to Graham Rankin for organising it.
Posted Mar 4, 2016, 3:46 PM by Posts Editor
TAFE students at the LBTCharlie brought a bunch of certificate 2 students to get a taste of sanding and painting. We don’t know what they thought, but we hope to have them back.
Posted Mar 4, 2016, 1:38 PM by Posts Editor
Tidy shedWhat do people think about having fan folded red serviettes for Monday night dinners? Possibly impractical, but they did look splendid at the fund raiser organised by the Bitterns on Thursday night. Equally as impressive was the state of the shed on Friday morning – everything back in place ready for work. It was a reminder to those of us who are less than pedantic in our own sheds (ahem), that we need to be a bit more careful to clean up after ourselves at the LBT: tomorrow is another day and somebody else will be doing something entirely different at that bit of bench, floor, grass or boat space we are calling our own. Fantastic event by the way, Bitterns
Posted Mar 6, 2016, 1:58 PM by Posts Editor
Geelong Wooden Boat Festival BulletinThe latest bulletin from Geelong features: the Huon. Actually there is lots more. Get a programme (http://bit.ly/1WXGcZM) and convince yourself you want to go (if you aren’t already booked).
Posted Mar 3, 2016, 12:49 PM by Posts Editor
Whose rowing the Skiffs?Barbara Dawson points out this interesting survey conducted by the Scottish Rowing Association: http://bit.ly/21IhnnL . Sample: ‘We were very interested to find out that St Ayles Skiffs really are bringing rowing to people who would probably never have rowed otherwise. A massive 90% of our skiff rowers had no experience of rowing in any form before rowing in a St Ayles.’ Pic from Scottish Coastal Rowing
Posted Mar 2, 2016, 3:20 PM by Posts Editor
Rod Macfarlan in PatagoniaLBT member Rod Macfarlan is voyaging by sail(!) to Antarctica, aboard the ‘Europa‘. He writes: ‘Watched the Europa arriving today motoring up the Straits of Magellan. Added attractions were the pod of dolphins and the Chilean dogs increasing their number. The voyagers are gradually accumulating – so far a South African/Scot and 2 Brits. It seems we have a blogger on board -> http://www.sailingtoantarctica.com. Another way to follow the trip, other than the ships log and gps at http://barkeuropa.com.’ Pic from www.barkeuropa.com
Posted Mar 2, 2016, 1:47 PM by Posts Editor
First windows into the shed extensionAll Greg’s hard work refurbishing the windows is now on public display: they are going into the wall, and the cladding is going in around them.
Posted Mar 2, 2016, 2:13 AM by Posts Editor
Concept drawings for evaporator shedsCumulus Studios have drawn up the attached concept plans for the redevelopment of the sheds for Martin and Judy Krynen. See http://bit.ly/1VNweKa . Martin and Judy are interested in suggestions and comments, which can be forwarded through the secretary: sec@lbt.org.au
Posted Feb 29, 2016, 1:59 PM by Posts Editor
Grebes on ‘leap year’ MondayOnly light breezes forecast for this afternoon, but we should celebrate the day. Assemble at the shed to get the boats rigged from 3pm on – you know what to do.
Posted Feb 28, 2016, 1:51 PM by Posts Editor
Harmony week celebrationJane Atkinson writes to tell us that on Saturday March 19th 3PM – 7PM at the Palais there will be ‘a celebration of cultural diversity and harmony in the Huon Valley presented by Rural Australians for Refugees and the Huon Residents Promoting Diversity…there will be workshops and kids’ activities, stalls, music, story, dance, drink, food’ . See the flyer and invitation to stall holders below.
Posted Feb 28, 2016, 1:51 PM by Posts Editor
Final Farewell to Louise CrossleyAllegra Biggs Dale writes to tell us that Louise Crossley’s ashes were scattered in Great Taylor Bay from ‘Syrah‘. More from Allegra attached: http://bit.ly/213v1Qn John Young takes Louise for an inaugural row in Syrah at her launch, November 2014
Posted Feb 28, 2016, 1:01 PM by Posts Editor
LBT members at large columnMike Dredge, who is working in New Caledonia, writes: ‘Just into Noumea after 2 weeks’ worth of (night time) scallop surveys. Bloody near killed me, I’m not used to heavy nocturnal activities these days. Working in the Grande Lagon, northern end of New Caledonia – Google Earth will show the place. Survey went well (we only destroyed one net) and found good commercial concentrations of scallops and very little bycatch to worry about. Talk about sublime to ridiculous. The boat we used (which was steamed to Fremantle to here last month for the survey and follow-up fishing operations) is a bit bigger than the Grebes – about $24 m worth. Bloody huge, which suited me just fine. Got a 10 …
Posted Feb 28, 2016, 3:27 AM by Posts Editor
Classic movie night at the Palais 6th MarchDeb Combes writes: ‘The news you have all been waiting to hear. The Franklin Palais projector has been installed and trialled and you guessed right, it works. So to celebrate and officially christen the technology a very special film has been chosen by our “Team Movies Behind Closed Doors Mystery Film Critic” for Sunday 6 March (doors open 6.30pm. It is the funny, uplifting, thought provoking and truly inspiring 2014 film PRIDE. If you enjoyed Billy Elliot and The Full Monty, you will love Pride.’ Bring $5 and a plate. See the trailer, https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kZfFvsKDuUU, and for more details http://bit.ly/1R9xJyx .
Posted Feb 27, 2016, 2:35 AM by Posts Editor
NZ Raid VideoShane Johnson pointed out this clip on YouTube: http://bit.ly/1XPlvQE . Are there lessons for us to learn from the Kiwis? Does the LBT need its own haka?
Posted Feb 26, 2016, 10:06 PM by Posts Editor
Familiar Franklin faces become international superstarsDavid Budd writes:‘Looking through the Guardian UK (on our last day in NZ), and guess what I found……’http://www.theguardian.com/sport/ng-interactive/2016/feb/25/coastal-rowing-new-zealand-kiwi-st-ayles-skiff-raid The pic below from the Guardian is only the start of it. Good to see the product placement (those Tasskiffie caps).
Posted Feb 26, 2016, 10:05 PM by Posts Editor
‘Bittern’ has been turned: come and celebrateEvent details:Date and time: March 3rd, 6.30pm;Guest presenter: David Wise from Hydrowood (see below); 3 course meal; cost of the evening $30 a head: all inclusive, payable in advance, direct deposit to the Franklin Working Waterfront Association (BSB: 633000, A/c No.: 146051727. Ref: “Skiff”), cash payments please contact Chris Butler on 0488.996480; Places are limited to 50 people. Chris Butler writes: ‘Hydrowood director David Wise will be a guest presenter at the Wooden Boat Centre at 6.30pm on Thursday, March 3. He’s been invited to explain this innovative and fascinating project and answer questions from lovers of Tasmanian specialty timbers as part of a fund-raising event for the Bitterns St. Ayles skiff …
Posted Feb 24, 2016, 1:42 PM by Posts Editor
Nancy picnic expeditionThe Tuesday group took Nancy up to Huonville and round and about to check the new batteries on a longer run with a full load. Seems all went well – even with the fenders out. Pics from Glynn Shevels
Posted Feb 23, 2016, 4:24 AM by Posts Editor
Port Esperance RegattaRachael Trueman writes: ‘Please let everyone know about the Port Esperance Regatta coming up soon! All enquiries to Dave Wood 0428 972578. The Regatta will once again be held over 2 days on the Easter weekend , beginning with the Kettering to Dover race on Saturday 26th March 2016. A great weekend of sailing and entertainment, on and off the water! Spit roast and live music on Saturday night….Curry night and presentations on Sunday evening. Bar open Friday night, Saturday and Sunday. Please find Notice of Race and Entry form attached- online entry form and NOR are also available on the PESC website at http://pesc.com.au/news/news.html . We look forward to seeing you all in Dover …
Posted Feb 23, 2016, 4:26 AM by Posts Editor
Huon Yacht Club social nightStan Pickering writes:‘Hi Members and Friends, There is to be a Social Night at the clubhouse this coming Friday 26th February. 6.30pm. The usual BYO food. The bar will be open. Bring along your favourite casserole, salad, sandwiches or something to cook on the BBQ. Have A Cook’s Night Off, and pick up some takeaway tucker. Join in the fun and friendship. and have a go at the new game, “Find The Joker” Hope to see you there, Cheers, Stan.’Flyer attached: http://bit.ly/1VBqm6F
Posted Feb 23, 2016, 4:15 AM by Posts Editor
Grebes on MondayFair winds forecast for this afternoon, so let’s start rigging up from 3pm on.
Posted Feb 21, 2016, 12:47 PM by Posts Editor
Dover Community Workshop open dayWe know the Dover shed primarily because of their restoration of ‘La Chaloupe’, but there is a lot more going on down south. See the invitation below to come and find out about it on the 9th March at 11am
Posted Feb 19, 2016, 3:10 AM by Posts Editor
Talk at TMAG – Hobart and Antarctic WhalingJohn Wadsley writes: ‘In November 1923, thirty years after the last Hobart whaler returned empty, a long black Norwegian whale ship, the Sir James Clark Ross, slid into port together with five small whale catchers to mark the start of an 8‐year relationship between Hobart and Antarctic whaling… Michael Stoddart, one of the MMT Committee members and a volunteer, has had a long interest in Antarctic whaling. His talk will focus on whaling out of Hobart in the 1920s, a little known aspect of whaling in the Southern Ocean and around Antarctica.’ It’s at the Royal Society Room, from 12 noon to 1pm, Tuesday 1st March. See the attached flyer for more information: http://bit.ly/1Qmu1ae
Posted Feb 18, 2016, 3:20 AM by Posts Editor
Beauty is in the eye…To others the pic below may merely be of a tap, but to we LBT kitchen hands, who had to put up with a gurgling fountain on Monday night, it is thing of beauty. Thanks to Willis for the excellent plumbing work.
Posted Feb 18, 2016, 2:57 AM by Posts Editor
Escapee tinny apprehendedTony Cooper spotted and hauled ashore the 11′ 6″ Savage Kestrel pictured below before it could ride the outgoing tide to Port Huon and points beyond. The owner should apply to the Wooden Boat Centre for it’s return. A donation to the Living Boat Trust would be appreciated.
Posted Feb 16, 2016, 2:54 AM by Posts Editor
Shed ideasDover Men’s Shed have recently spent a fair bit of time, effort and money on fitting dust evacuation tubing to their workshop. See pics below and the report from Ron Wells attached: http://bit.ly/1QfHiBq Pics from Ron Wells
Posted Feb 14, 2016, 3:18 PM by Posts Editor
Geelong RegattaThose thinking of joining the group going to Geelong for the Wooden Boat Festival (http://bit.ly/1VdtENm) and St Ayles Skiff regatta on the weekend of March 12th should look at the email describing the program attached: http://bit.ly/1VdtvcJ . Peter Doyle is obviously putting a lot of time and effort into this. We already have a crew going to Geelong, but the more the merrier. Speak to Marguerite Porte, Lorrie Harrison or Richard Forster if you are interested, or call 04977 86572 or email sec@lbt.org.au
Posted Feb 14, 2016, 3:40 PM by Posts Editor
Australian Wooden Boat Festival newsletterSee the latest from the AWBF at http://bit.ly/1VczkHf . Australia Day celebrations at Franklin get a run. Pic from Annette and Aspen Cauchi
Posted Feb 13, 2016, 3:02 PM by Posts Editor
In the drink timeWading around scraping down pontoons last week was made much more palatable than would normally be the case by the temperature of the water – the river is like a warm bath at the moment. That makes it an opportune time to check and then test the flotation in our boats. The forecast for tomorrow (Monday) afternoon is cool and very windy so we may only get to do the first of these tasks. When Hans turned turtle in one of the Grebes a couple of weeks ago the buoyancy bags shot straight out from under the seats, hindering, rather than helping, the situation, so it is something that needs to be done. Pic from ‘On the Water’ schools program
Posted Feb 13, 2016, 2:52 PM by Posts Editor
Test run for Nancy’s new batteriesBrians Pain and Marriott took Nancy out cruising at a steady four and a half knots for more than an hour this morning, at which point she had only used 15% of the charge in her new lithium phosphate batteries. A resounding success!
Posted Feb 11, 2016, 4:02 PM by Posts Editor
Former LBT treasurer moves on to better thingsWe were always a bit tame for Liz Emery – looks like she has found her true métier (along with Doug).
Posted Feb 10, 2016, 1:56 AM by Posts Editor
Pontoon reportThe pontoons were brought around on the high tide to the sand boat ramp this (Wednesday) morning, and put on logs. By low tide in the late afternoon they were high and dry, ready to be inspected by Murray Isles. He pronounced them to be in good condition, and will be supplying alternative plans for making them more stable whilst not compromising their flotation.
Posted Feb 9, 2016, 10:35 PM by Posts Editor
Cut and polish for BillieBillie’s gunnels and top strakes have been peeling alarmingly in the sun, certainly not the look we wanted for showing her off in Geelong next month. Fortunately the Wednesday group has reconstituted itself, and rolled up its sleeves and got stuck in to solve the problem today. Graham Rankin writes: ‘After something of an extended break the UCOS team have re united (that’s Uncouth Codgers and Old Sods) The top priority is to ensure Billie looks her best before she heads of to Geelong. That darned Tasmanian UV had left her brightwork looking a little shabby, so it was out with the scrapers and sand paper in preparation for new top coats to be applied. At the same …
Posted Feb 10, 2016, 12:39 PM by Posts Editor
Nancy’s new batteriesThe electrical engineer has been consulted, there have been extensive communications with the supplier, an electrician who specialises in boats has cast his eye over the situation, and now Brian Marriott is finally happy that all is in order to replace the old lead acid batteries in Nancy with the new Lithium phosphate ones sponsored by Martin Krynen. The two Brians (Marriot and Pain) have been up to their elbows in it all week.
Posted Feb 9, 2016, 10:14 PM by Posts Editor
SMS list for Monday afternoon sailingConditions for our sailing afternoons continue to fluctuate between ‘good’ and ‘sensational’, as can be judged by the pic below of Matt Wardell and crew (Jesse and friend) last Monday. We are experimenting with getting the word out using SMS – some of you will already have received a message confirming that last Monday was ‘on’. If you wish to join this list (and participate in sailing) send a text message to 04977 86572 with your name and the text ‘want sailing sms’.
Posted Feb 9, 2016, 3:27 AM by Posts Editor
Thank you to Australia Day volunteersLisa Plohl invites everybody who helped out on Australia Day at Franklin (a big success) to Please ‘join us on Wednesday 17 February, 6.00pm, Rotunda – Huonville Esplanade’. Flyer attached (bit.ly/1Q4yRT7) and please RSVP.
Posted Feb 14, 2016, 3:56 PM by Posts Editor
Instagram view from Franklin MarineLaurence from the chandlery is a big fan of Instagram for sharing pictures: see his post at franklinmarine.com.au/featured/instagram-your-day. Judging by the terrific collection of pictures of the waterfront he has at www.instagram.com/franklinmarineau he is on to something.
Posted Feb 8, 2016, 1:05 PM by Posts Editor
Hurry on down to the LBTYou know that Monday night dinner time must be approaching, and the kitchen aromas wafting across the river enticing, when you see Di and Ian from Pied Piper making for the pontoon at speed.
Posted Feb 8, 2016, 12:50 PM by Posts Editor
Grebe sailing Monday (8th) afternoonModerate winds are forecast, so it looks like we are on: assemble from 3pm to start rigging up. We may have to balance inexperienced crew with skippers, as some of the latter are gallivanting around overseas and won’t be with us.
Posted Feb 7, 2016, 2:22 PM by Posts Editor
18′ Marblehead Gunning Dory boat plansIf you want to build this boat contact Jon for a free copy of the plans: (03) 6289 5380. Jon tells us that he built the Wharram catamaran that is being restored on the block the next to the LBT, so he knows a thing or two about boats.
Posted Feb 7, 2016, 12:39 PM by Posts Editor
Pickup on South StreetDeb Combes tells us that this will be our ‘classic movie’ at the Palais Theatre this coming Sunday Night (8th Feb), 6.45pm. Bring a plate and a gold coin. More from Deb attached: http://bit.ly/1PYz0Od
Posted Feb 5, 2016, 3:18 AM by Posts Editor
Building a resilient local economyLiz Smith writes to tell us that there is a seminar to discuss this topic, ‘using the principles of a circular economy’ at Cygnet Town Hall supper room, Tuesday 9th of February, 7pm. Admission is $10, $8 concession.‘The circular economy is about ‘closing the loop’ within your own community; building resilience by connecting businesses, circulating money locally and minimising the export of local wealth by reducing imports.’ Flyer attached: http://bit.ly/1PYwY0p
Posted Feb 5, 2016, 3:24 AM by Posts Editor
Mahurangi traditional boat regattaBarb and David are participating in the NZ Raid and regatta, and sent this link to some ripper pictures of activities: waitematawoodys.com/tag/mahurangi-regatta-2016/
Posted Feb 5, 2016, 3:25 AM by Posts Editor
Journey to Te Haruhi Bay via Army BayAccording to the itinerary for the New Zealand raid (see http://nzcoastalrowing.org/page/2/), the plan for today (Thursday) was ‘Pack up Motuora Island, and journey to Te Haruhi Bay via Army Bay. Accommodation at YMCA lodge Te Haruhi bay.’ Nell Tyson reports ‘Having an amazing time with fab camping spots and good weather till now. It’s almost Regatta time and we have arrived at the Churchill Park YMCA….hardly camping…… Short day getting here. The planned long row was made impossible by wind. Took a bus instead after crossing back to the mainland. There have been so many beautiful beaches…… Cheers. Nell.’More pictures on the LBT Facebook page: http://on.fb.me/1TG2rnG, from Dennis Muscovich …
Posted Feb 5, 2016, 3:26 AM by Posts Editor
Milestone just another step on the wayOn Monday the building inspector approved the framing for the verandah extension, a cause for celebration on Tuesday, but not for laying down tools (as the pictures below show). The restored windows need glazing, the leak in the shower has to be repaired, the equal access toilet must be framed up, and there is yet another ‘renovator’s delight’ boat to be dealt with. Pics from Graham Wright
Posted Feb 4, 2016, 1:17 PM by Posts Editor
What to do with our pontoons?The brains trust of David Pittaway, Graham Rankin and Peter Heading are on the case. If you have some expertise we would love to hear from you: contact the secretary at sec@lbt.org.au
Posted Feb 2, 2016, 3:08 AM by Posts Editor
We are losing our Franklin weather stationTony Dow rang last night to say that in the circumstances in which he now finds himself he can no longer afford the time and effort required to maintain HRVista weather, and that he will be closing it down. We are sure we speak for the many who have referred to this site daily when we say ‘thank you Tony, and we hope these circumstances change soon’. We will be leaving this message on Tony’s feedback page at http://hrvistaweather.com/weather/wxcontact.php whilst this page is still there, and suggest others who feel as we do should use it for the for the same purpose.
Posted Feb 4, 2016, 3:31 AM by Posts Editor
LBT in New ZealandApparently the Tassie contingent (26) to the Raid and Regatta is a substantial part of the event. No reports as yet, but there are pictures at NZ Coastal Rowing (nzcoastalrowing.org) and on Dennis Muscovich’s Facebook page: on.fb.me/20A24Nz . There is a map and an itinerary at raidnz.org
Posted Jan 31, 2016, 1:21 PM by Posts Editor
Sailing MondayLast Monday was an ‘off’ week, with preparations for Australia Day taking precedence over getting on the water. Tomorrow looks propitious for sailing: winds South Easterlies at 5-15 knots, so lets do it. We will be missing a couple of experienced skippers, so ‘doing it’ may involve being a bit less adventurous than we normally are.
Posted Jan 30, 2016, 8:47 PM by Posts Editor
‘Billie’ off to GeelongYesterday we received the following news from John Synnott. ‘Sponsorship; Living Boat Trust – Geelong Wooden Boat Festival 12th – 14th March 2016 The Board of Huon Valley Financial Services Ltd (HVFSL) and its franchisees the Huon Valley Community Bank branches have considered your recent sponsorship application. The Directors of HVFSL are pleased to advise that we have approved sponsorship funding to the value of $1200.00 (twelve hundred dollars) to assist the Living Boat Trust with its participation and transportation of the St Ayles Skiff to the Geelong Wooden Boat Festival on the 12th – 14th March 2016.’ This is fantastic news. As most readers of this column would be aware, when our ‘Women on the Water’ built and started using ‘Imagine …
Posted Jan 30, 2016, 3:09 AM by Posts Editor
WA St Ayles Skiffs launchedJohn Longley writes:‘Finally we have settled on the names. In Ken Tregonning’s history of the Club he records that in 1924 Jack Norris, one of the great pre-war champions of WA Yachting, bought four 16 foot skiffs from Sydney to sail at FBYC. They were named Atalanta, Shadow, Ripple and Dotsie. We felt the first two were maybe a bit grand for a couple of rowing skiffs and so have settled on Ripple and Dotsie.’
Posted Jan 29, 2016, 2:23 AM by Posts Editor
Posie Graeme-Evans on ‘Nancy’As noted in a previous post, Posie Graeme-Evans, the well known author and film producer (McLeod’s Daughters, The Dressmaker), was ambassador at Australia Day, and arrived on ‘Nancy’. She sent us the following post and pictures.“On Australia Day 2016 Andrew Blaxland (my husband) and I had the great good fortune to travel all the way from Cradoc Ferry Wharf to Franklin via the Egg Island Canal. Not exactly a dangerous journey, since it lasted for about 15 minutes and took place on the very well-behaved Huon River.The MV Nancy, lent for the occasion by the Living Boat Trust of Franklin, was our mode of travel that day and we happily sat in the stern watching …
Posted Jan 31, 2016, 5:02 PM by Posts Editor
St Ayles Skiffs in the UKPeter Doyle from Geelong pointed out this impressive Google map locating all the clubs that have Skiffs. Just circumnavigating the country to visit these clubs would be quite a journey. To view the interactive map go to http://bit.ly/1QtAtJ9 or click on the image below.
Posted Jan 27, 2016, 4:45 PM by Posts Editor
Visiting the Living Boat TrustYou need to be very careful to look busy around the LBT or anything could happen. Jeff from the good old US of A failed to observe this adage when he came to dinner on Monday night, and the next minute he was serving it. At 6.45 Tuesday morning he was on the road to collect a backup generator for ‘Nancy‘ and by 8.30am he was at our Australia Day marquee assisting the children of Franklin assemble their paddles from the blades and shafts he had previously helped cut. David Pittaway knew a good thing when he saw it, and promptly shanghaied Jeff to help rove ‘Olga’ on Wednesday. We think he is going to attempt to escape …
Posted Jan 27, 2016, 3:53 AM by Posts Editor
Nancy on dutyNancy brought the Australia Day Ambassador Posie Graeme-Evans across from Cradoc for the event.
Posted Jan 28, 2016, 3:19 AM by Posts Editor
Paddle making dayAustralia Day was paddle making day in the LBT marquee under the supervision of Graham Rankin, Jeff, Zainab and the team. It was a bit like homework – involved the whole family. And of course once you had made your paddle you needed to get out on the water and test it, with expert guidance from Kevin, Hans and various other ancient mariners. Thanks to all who helped out with this event – having enough hands made the work enjoyable for all (we hope). Pic from Annette and Aspen
Posted Jan 27, 2016, 3:57 AM by Posts Editor
Australia DayWhen Lisa Plohl from the council organised for Australia Day to be held at Franklin she was hoping that the river might provide a backdrop. What she couldn’t have counted on was having Yukon and Rhona H coming up under sail in tandem, to be met by the small craft fleet that had assembled. What a sight. Lots more pictures from Annette and Aspen Cauchi at http://bit.ly/1TmjxXE. For a fuller report see http://bit.ly/1OVY7xw.
Posted Jan 31, 2016, 1:11 PM by Posts Editor
Cruise to Kettering on the S.V RhonaJohn Wadsley (from TMAG) writes:‘Our good friends on the SV Rhona H have some exciting sailing options this summer. They will be joining the festivities on the weekend of the Royal Hobart Regatta and the Kettering Wooden Boat Rally by sailing between the two events. There is also a special fireworks sailing event. So get on board with SV Rhona H, a 1942 Gaff Rigged Ketch, for cruising between Hobart and Kettering on Sunday 7 February or Monday 8 February, with bus transport to or from Kettering. The all-inclusive fare covers return bus fare, breakfast, lunch, morning and afternoon tea, hot and cold drinks. And on the night of Monday 8 February, they are running a special Fireworks …
Posted Jan 25, 2016, 3:03 AM by Posts Editor
Progress report on the ‘Bittern’Chris Butler writes:‘The ‘Bittern’ is growing wings, wooden though they are. The crew members building Franklin’s third St. Ayles skiff at the Wooden Boat Centre are presently scratching their heads over the infamous, problematical fifth plank. Head builder Grant Drummond has been seen in earnest consultation with ‘Billie‘ builder Pete Heading planning the setting of the errant plank to overcome errors in its shape. But once on, it’s a short road to the final two, followed by the keel and outer stems. Apart from the crew, volunteers so far have included the young son of a Chilean family from Hobart, as well as experienced hands from previous skiffs. Hopefully the Bittern will be in the water before …
Posted Jan 24, 2016, 1:48 PM by Posts Editor
Crew needed for steam boat ‘Leprana’If you would like to crew for Andrew Perkins on Australia Day send the secretary a message: sec@lbt.org.au . First come first served: not sure if you will be asked to polish the brass.
Posted Jan 23, 2016, 2:03 PM by Posts Editor
LBT activities on Australia DayLot’s of information about Australia Day activities in the Huon News, especially from Annette Cauchi who has a great article describing what the LBT will be up to. Have a look at the lists below, and if you have any comments email sec@lbt.org.au
Posted Jan 21, 2016, 4:20 PM by Posts Editor
The history and mystery of Deal IslandJohn Wadsley from the Maritime Museum writes: ‘to kick the year off in fine form, you are invited to the first Monthly Lunchtime Talk on Tuesday 2 February. We have Dallas Baker OAM giving a talk on the ‘History and Mystery of Deal Island’. See flyer attached: http://bit.ly/1Qm8hJS
Posted Jan 19, 2016, 1:03 PM by Posts Editor
Cruise to Cygnet on ‘Lady Nelson’Liz Smith tells us that Cygnet is having a special day to celebrate the ‘French connection’ in their history, and that the ‘Lady Nelson’ is participating. See attached poster for details of an opportunity to cruise the Channel and Huon.
Posted Jan 19, 2016, 11:07 AM by Posts Editor
News from the Bass Strait Maritime CentreSee attached: http://bit.ly/1lsvJbs. We were particularly attracted to the 1935 breakfast menu for TSSLoongana. They knew how to set up a good day back then – no problems with floppy arteries. Those of us who have visited this centre in Devonport at the mouth of the Mersey know what an interesting place it is, and the ‘Julie Burgess’ which they look after and which is moored nearby is a beautiful boat.
Posted Jan 24, 2016, 2:25 PM by Posts Editor
Rob Sweeney’s last projectOld friend of the LBT Rob is terminally ill. His friends have initiated a crowd sourcing fund to help him finish his last project: see www.gofundme.com/2nj5fg3b. Please visit this site and make a contribution if you want to assist Rob.
Posted Jan 18, 2016, 1:37 PM by Posts Editor
LBT Long TableDinner was ‘al fresco’ on Monday night. The more than seventy people who had gathered to farewell the crews taking the boxing kangaroo to New Zealand wouldn’t have fitted in the shed, and the weather was kind. Kate and Jilly cooked up a storm, and the only places left at that long table after serving were for them: all went away replete and satisfied. As we have said to each other frequently at the LBT, who would have wanted to be anywhere else?
Posted Jan 18, 2016, 1:40 PM by Posts Editor
Kiwi Raid and RegattaKeep up with all the planning and news by subscribing to the newsletter: http://eepurl.com/bM8LUn, or just keep an eye on the web page: http://bit.ly/2378plO
Posted Jan 17, 2016, 11:45 AM by Posts Editor
Boat Licensing CourseGlynn Shevels has sent the attached pictures from the motor boat license course which was conducted at the LBT shed on Saturday (16th January). Thanks Glynn for organising this: education and training is something we value a lot at the LBT.
Posted Jan 16, 2016, 2:26 PM by Posts Editor
LBT at Australia DayThe Living Boat Trust has been asked to provide some activities for Australia Day, 10am Tuesday January 26th at the Franklin Oval. We’ll have ‘Nancy’, the Skiffs and the Grebes out on river, and paddle making and a stall on shore. Should be good fun but we need few more helpers. If you can be one of those people please send a note to the secretary (sec@lbt.org.au) or add your name to the list that will be put up in the shed.
Posted Jan 16, 2016, 2:14 PM by Posts Editor
Spanner in the worksThe Men’s Shed Association have set up on online health check aimed at the male segment of the population. Might be worth some of us having a look at it (if we dare): http://malehealth.org.au/
Posted Jan 13, 2016, 10:31 PM by Richard Forster
Cleaning out the shedEverything is on an heroic scale over at the old apple drying factory (the ‘evaporators’), including the cleanup. When Martin and Judy decided to empty the old storage shed they fired up the forklift, and they needed it! There was a monumental collection of broken machinery and furniture, scrap iron and birds nests, augers and sprockets, engines and pipes, gearboxes and timber and unidentifiable bits and pieces of all sorts. It hadn’t been amassed in a day: the price label on what looked like a pump diaphragm had been issue in September 1951. It was for 24 shillings.
Posted Jan 13, 2016, 10:01 PM by Richard Forster
Australian Wooden Boat Festival Newsletter 14/1/16Paul Cullen writes: ‘Greetings, friends of the MyState Australian Wooden Boat Festival: Welcome to the first AWBF News Blog of 2016 and best wishes for a successful and prosperous New Year from all of us here at the Hobart office. The pace is already quickening, as we look forward to a very busy year. As we mentioned before, we’ll be helping to deliver the Australian Antarctic Festival in September (8-13) while simultaneously preparing for the MyState Australian Wooden Boat Festival in February 2017. The past year was very kind to us, with a successful AWBF delivered in February 2015, scoring a win in the Tasmanian Tourism Awards for Best Major Event or Festival, and going on as a …
Posted Jan 15, 2016, 3:48 AM by Posts Editor
‘Death or Liberty’ Thursday Night, ABCAbout a year ago those budding stars Julie Donehue, Martin Kell and Ewen Laidlaw set off with a Grebe to participate in the filming of ‘Death and Liberty’. This Thursday night (14th) at 9.30pm (or on iView – http://iview.abc.net.au/programs/death-or-liberty/DO1408T001S00) we find out if they hit the cutting room floor, or made it on to celluloid. See a trailer at https://vimeo.com/138727813 and the ABC preview at http://ab.co/1Oh5yPm . It is the Melbourne Age ‘show of the week’ which is a good recommendation: see http://bit.ly/1ZrNtXm
Posted Jan 15, 2016, 3:12 AM by Posts Editor
NZ2016Martin Riddle has started up a news page for those planning their trip to the New Zealand Raid and Regatta: see http://bit.ly/1ZYVU9r and bookmark it if you are interested. The first significant post is ‘Taking a mobile phone on the Kiwi Raid?’. Hopefully the rest of us will be able to use this page to keep up with Tassie related news from Kiwiland once the events are underway – there is a link to it from the LBT website main menu. The homepage for the Raid and Regatta is http://raidnz.org, which features a picture which looks suspiciously like the Channel.
Posted Jan 12, 2016, 2:05 PM by Posts Editor
Rowing TechniquesShane Johnson spotted the advice from the ‘British Admiralty’ shown in the pic below. Click on it to see it full size. It was issued in 1937, but was recently incorporated in an item on ‘Scottish Coastal Rowing’: see http://bit.ly/1N3ASgw. It would seem that the first thing to do is get your kit off.
Posted Jan 11, 2016, 2:11 PM by Posts Editor
Looking for a shedDavid Star writes: ‘I am contacting you, and other similarly experienced wooden boat enthusiasts, as I am looking for a lockable undercover space to rebuild my 1940 Tasmanian built motor cruiser “Thalia” (RYCT A28). She is 28’ long with about a 7’ beam. I would consider anywhere within 1 hour travel of Hobart, and I expect to need a space for 12 months as she needs a complete re-build. If you have any thoughts or suggestions I would appreciative your help.’If you are able to assist David contact him on 0478 419 949 or email him at info@david-star.net .
Posted Jan 8, 2016, 9:22 PM by Posts Editor
Sending off the NZ expedition in styleWe like a celebration at the LBT, and the imminent departure of many teams for the Kiwi Raid and Regatta is a very good excuse. Come along on Monday 18th of January to help us send them off in style.
Posted Jan 7, 2016, 8:41 PM by Posts Editor
Australia Day, January 26th, Franklin OvalLisa Plohl (from Huon Valley Council) writes: ‘We are looking for volunteers to help us make this a great celebration‘. See attached: http://bit.ly/1OQ4iWV and http://bit.ly/1OQ4nd4
Posted Jan 10, 2016, 4:33 PM by Posts Editor
Skiffs at Geelong Wooden Boat Festival 2016An email from Peter Doyle is a reminder that this event in mid March (12th-14th) is really the first St Ayles Skiff Regatta to be held on the Big Island, and should be a goodie: he’s ‘thrilled to report that, so far, we have seven Skiffs coming – including John Longley’s two from Perth! I’ve managed to “book” the pontoon right in front of the RGYC club house where we’ll raft the skiffs side-by-side. It’ll look fabulous!’ See www.woodenboatfestival.yachting.org.au for festival details. We are attempting to get ‘Billie’ across Bass Strait to participate. There is already a core crew going to represent the Small Island and it would be …
Posted Jan 7, 2016, 2:03 PM by Posts Editor
Taking Inflatable PFD’s on planesOne usually relies on the airlines to provide life jackets when one is flying, but those traveling to regattas (in New Zealand for instance) might need to take their own. In this case if your jacket is the inflatable type you need to declare its compressed air cylinder to the airline ahead of time. Karen Corbin has provided the following example of such a declaration (made to Qantas).To: dgenquiries@qantas.com.au My travelling companion and I will be travelling from Hobart to Melbourne and return, each carrying a pfd with co 2 cartridge. This will be in checked luggage. Our reference is ABC123. Flight JQ123 28th Jan and JQ456 9th Feb 2016. … She received the following reply.Hi …
Posted Jan 4, 2016, 12:49 PM by Posts Editor
Happy LBT new year! Let’s get the Grebes outSome may have thought it all happened on January 1st, but WE know that the first Monday Dinner at the LBT is the important inauguration day of the year: and it’s tonight (Monday 4th January). We are told Ros Barnett is putting in a guest appearance in the kitchen. The predicted easterly breeze looks to be on the light side, but should still be ok for a sail, so lets do it. Convene around 3.30pm to help get the boats rigged up.
Posted Jan 3, 2016, 5:55 PM by Posts Editor
Please keep off the pontoonLaurence Burgin (who runs the marina) has asked us to avoid using the pontoon moored to the upstream pier until further notice, as he is concerned about its safety. We are organising to do work on it. As a separate point, those using LBT boats should put them away and not leave them tied to either pontoon for long periods of time. Pontoon space is at a premium, and is required for crews boarding or alighting from boats.
Posted Jan 2, 2016, 9:30 PM by Posts Editor
Cartela in the newsRoss James has a double page spread in Saturday’s Mercury entitled ‘The safest harbour is a ship’s home’. ‘Tasmania is blessed with a large number of significant wooden vessels and people prepared to fight for them’ writes Ross. Get your Mercury, or read all about it at http://bit.ly/1OC2wbL if you are prepared to miss out on the funnies. Picture from Kim Eiszele
Posted Jan 1, 2016, 8:23 PM by Posts Editor
Big plans for the waterfront (in 1995)Martin Krynen was cleaning out the evaporator sheds when he came across the attached article from the Sunday Tasmanian, September 24, 1995. The accompanying picture balances ‘Huon Harmony’ on the water with a very empty north Franklin foreshore, and the evaporator sheds in the background (hiding behind piles of apple crates and trees). The Franklin Progress Association had designs on that empty foreshore, planning a ‘90 metre wharf and protected berths, small boat sheds, paths and parklands at the entrance to the town’ (see second pic below). It’s heartening to see how much of this has actually come to fruition, albeit in a somewhat altered configuration. See http://bit.ly/1PAhLB7 , http://bit.ly/1PAhRZn and http://bit.ly …
Posted Jan 1, 2016, 1:27 AM by Posts Editor
Shed PlanningThanks to Brett and the team the new workshop is rapidly approaching that point where decisions need to be made about how it will be fitted out and how this will effect the use of the main shed. Shown below is a first set of ideas. Doubtless you can see the flaws. To correct them sketch up a plan and post it in the orange box or send it to sec@lbt.org.au . There is a ‘blank’ plan at http://bit.ly/1MdErjU which can be downloaded.
Posted Dec 31, 2015, 1:35 PM by Posts Editor
Boat Licence CourseTime: 16/1/2016, 8.30 am; place: Living Boat Trust; bbq supplied; instructor : Colin Stokes; assisted by Glynn Shevels; cost :$ 160.00 including boat licence. If you are interested, contact: Glynn Shevels. 0419 341493 limited places available. Many LBT members have completed this course in the past and have said very good things about it.
Posted Dec 31, 2015, 1:11 PM by Posts Editor
Classic Film SundayDeb Combes writes: ‘My excitement is palpable for this month’s film, the one to kick start 2016, is the sensation “Leave you brain at the door” male bonding farce, Gallic cousin to “Dumb and Dumber”, yes it is the 2003 French comedy, Ruby & Quentin also known as “Tais Toi”.‘ Show up at the the Palais at 7pm, 3rd January, with a plate and $5. For the complete message from Deb see http://bit.ly/1TqBNwV
Posted Dec 30, 2015, 4:21 PM by Posts Editor
Devonport RegattaFrom Jock Littler: ‘I am writing to you on behalf of the Devonport Apex Regatta Association Inc. who coordinates the Annual Devonport Apex Regatta to be held Sunday 6th March 2016. For the past 57 years the shores of the Mersey River have played host to the best one day Regatta in the State. As I’m sure you would be aware the 2016 Devonport Apex Regatta is approaching quickly and we are now keen to confirm all attractions for our event, with this in mind we have been informed that you now have 4 rowing skiffs and the Devonport Apex Regatta Association would like to invite your organisation to display racing of these skiffs and perhaps also race along …
Posted Dec 30, 2015, 3:47 PM by Posts Editor
New Years Day Row and Picnic to Shipwrights PointBarbara Dawson writes:‘Anyone interested in a New Years Day row to Shipwrights Point? Skiffs and kayaks and private boats welcome. Leaving LBT at 10.30 (i.e. be at LBT at 10am), and departing Shipwrights Point at around 1.30 to catch the high tide back to Franklin. Bring picnic lunch and drinks. Let me know if you are interested, and I will be in touch closer to the date.’ barbara.dawson@bigpond.com
Posted Dec 30, 2015, 3:29 PM by Posts Editor
Tiffany Eckhardt and Dave Steel in the Old ChurchCharly Clare writes:‘On Sunday 3rd January, 3pm enjoy an intimate afternoon of honest, humorous and uplifting music that will feed your soul under the vaulted ceiling of a church by a river…at River Flow Yoga & Accommodation, 3408 Main St, Franklin; $22.50. Tea, coffee & cake available. BYO alcohol; contact Charly: p. 6266 3995 | m. 0417 002 381′. Numbers are limited, so pre-buy a ticket. ‘The old church’ is the white one just downstream from the Franklin Post Office. Flyer attached: see http://bit.ly/1OpuOWR
Posted Dec 24, 2015, 12:35 PM by Posts Editor
Break up partyThe Tuesday group took time off for some well earned relaxation on their last working day for the year. It’s been a big one: along with their regular maintenance jobs (keeping the fleet in trim, servicing Nancy etc) there have been boat restorations and the the new extension to keep them very busy. The rest of us owe ’em.
Posted Dec 23, 2015, 2:20 PM by Posts Editor
The International Yacht Restoration SchoolFriend of the LBT Ken Thomson recently toured the east coast of the US, and at Newport Rhode Island took the pictures shown below. In the ‘classroom’ shown (first two pics) ‘each small vessel has two students taking the project to the water’. To say that the scale of operations is awesome is no overstatement. The large yacht ‘Coronet’ under restoration shown is 130′ on deck and (they say) 190′ overall. There is a nice video about the school at https://vimeo.com/36724978
Posted Dec 22, 2015, 8:04 PM by Posts Editor
Wooden Boat Festival: the view from the USOff Centre Harbour are known for their beautifully made traditional boat videos, and Paul Cullen from the AWBF points us to this one of the festival which is outstanding: see http://bit.ly/1OGQmsi . Watch out for the Skiffs.
Posted Dec 23, 2015, 4:26 AM by Posts Editor
The Nancy CarollersOn Friday night the Little Boat Choir boarded Nancy and sang their way down the river to the Franklin Christmas Party. For more views of the event (from the water) taken by Annette and Aspen Cauchi see http://bit.ly/1T7tBBz .
Posted Dec 18, 2015, 8:37 PM by Posts Editor
Delivering SantaA team of carol singing WOW angels (and an elf) delivered a very relaxed Santa to the Franklin Christmas party on Friday night. For more splendid pictures of the event, snapped from the water by Annette and Aspen Cauchi, see http://bit.ly/1T7tBBz
Posted Dec 18, 2015, 8:36 PM by Posts Editor
Christmas gift for the LBTFriend of the LBT Graeme Norris had an unused car tent in his garage which should be just the thing for future Tawe Nunnagahs. He sent it down from Devonport with his nephew Peter and it arrived today (Saturday). Thanks fellas!
Posted Dec 18, 2015, 4:53 PM by Posts Editor
The yellow box has retiredWe’ve had the time and motion people in, and they have determined that our treasurer (Jackie) has been spending far too much time transporting the loot from the shed to the office. Brett and Graham have installed a letterbox slot in the office, so from now on anything for Jackie (rowing fees, receipts etc) should go into this letterbox, and not into the venerable yellow box which will be retired.
Posted Dec 18, 2015, 4:45 PM by Posts Editor
Reminder: LBT Christmas PartiesThis year’s Christmas Party is on Monday night 21st December starting around 5.30pm. The cooks have the night off, so it’s a BRING YOUR OWN. If the conditions are suitable we will have the Grebes out on the water (under sail) from around 3.30pm, so there will be the opportunity to work up an appetite. The Tuesday group will also be having a celebratory BBQ on – you guessed it – Tuesday and invite others to come along. Thanks to Tony Cooper for organising this.
Posted Dec 19, 2015, 9:56 PM by Posts Editor
Australia Day celebrations come to FranklinLast year Huon Valley Council decided to open up the ceremonies and hold them on the foreshore. They catered for 500 people and 1200 turned up! Long and the short of it is that all these people didn’t really fit, so the council have decided to move the event to the Franklin where there is more space. They want LOTS of activity on the water, and have spoken with us about providing it. There will be more information coming: this is an early heads up to put the morning of Tuesday January 26th in your diary.
Posted Dec 17, 2015, 12:47 PM by Posts Editor
WOW NewsletterLots of activity for the Women on the Water with the NZ trip coming up, and expeditions to Nubeena and Geelong mooted. Read all about it: http://bit.ly/1Yo6Avz
Posted Dec 17, 2015, 12:30 PM by Posts Editor
St Ayles Skiffs at GeelongPeter Doyle from the Geelong Yacht Club writes: ‘On behalf of the committees of the ‘2016 Wooden Boat Festival of Geelong’ and the Royal Geelong Yacht Club, I invite you to come compete in the inaugural St Ayles Skiff Regatta of Geelong on March 12,13 and 14 next year. The ‘Wooden Boat Festival of Geelong’ (WBF) alternates with the Hobart WBF and is hosted the Royal Geelong Yacht Club. The Festival gathers two hundred beautiful wooden boats (including three tall ships) and highlights many on-water events over three days. The web site address of the ‘Wooden Boat Festival of Geelong’ is http://www.foxsportspulse.com/assoc_page.cgi?assoc=9992&pID=1 where you will notice that …
Posted Dec 17, 2015, 12:22 PM by Posts Editor
Shed ideasWith the shed extension rapidly taking shape it’s time to start thinking how we should be using our space. It’s intended that this extension will house and isolate our noisy, dusty, smelly (but very useful) machinery, solving one problem, but do we want to continue to pass oars over the dinner table, and to have the tele teetering on the fridge? Have your say by submitting an annotated plan to sec@lbt.org.au or by posting it to the orange post box at the door. Download a printable plan from http://bit.ly/1MdErjU Pic from Amal Mongia
Posted Dec 14, 2015, 1:33 PM by Posts Editor
Next Skiff is out of the packThe flatpack for the ‘Bitterns’ team Skiff has arrived, and they have begun work on it over at the Wooden Boat Centre.
Posted Dec 13, 2015, 6:40 PM by Posts Editor
Messing about with GrebesThe forecast for Monday afternoon is for fair winds so the Grebes will be on the water. Come and join us, from 3.30pm on.
Posted Dec 11, 2015, 12:14 PM by Posts Editor
Couple of milestones reached on ThursdayGraham Wright writes: The last rafters are fitted on the extension; Gretchen’s keel re-construction is nearly finished. We were confident that Brett Doubleday and the Tuesday crew (which has become the ‘all week’ crew) would make good progress on the extension, but not that they would also keep the Gretchen restoration going and do other maintenance jobs around the place. Thanks people.
Posted Dec 10, 2015, 7:38 PM by Posts Editor
Franklin Christmas ParadeIt’s the silly hat season again, and we at the LBT intend plunging right in: after all we have our very own silly hat. There are two events to put in the calendar immediately (or just sync with the LBT calendar which already has both). On Friday December 18th: Participants in the parade to gather at the LBT 5-5.15pm; Parade along the foreshore to Village Green; Free BBQ at the Green;Boat parade to get prepared at LBT, starting 6.15 pm; Leave at 6.45pm for landing at Village Green, bringing music, elves etc. Party, choir, brass band, children’s activities etc.We are hoping for a real fleet to send downriver, so come along and …
Posted Dec 13, 2015, 5:07 PM by Posts Editor
Christmas message from the AWBFPaul Cullen from the Australian Wooden Boat Festival writes: ‘Greetings, friends of the MyState Australian Wooden Boat Festival: …To all our friends, supporters, sponsors and volunteers, thank you for the amazing backing you have given this great event all year long and we wish you a safe and joyous Christmas holiday.’ For the rest of the newsletter see attached: bit.ly/1NYjMaX . For the latest from the festival go to awbf.com.au and choose News Blog – lots of good stories.
Posted Dec 10, 2015, 7:40 PM by Posts Editor
Chip Ahoy!Barbara Dawson writes: ‘In conditions reminiscent of Shackleton’s Antarctic voyages, Billie and Imagine – plus 2 double kayaks – bravely set off late on Saturday afternoon with the tide and wind, in the direction of the grey skies and drizzle of Huonville. On reaching our goal in record time, we discovered the fish and chip cafe was holding its staff Christmas party and thus closed to the public. Undaunted, we ordered our meals from the newly opened Ranelagh General Store – their squid and chips in particular, eaten to general acclaim. Luckily while awaiting for our repast to be delivered, we were able to make good use of the shelter which Huon Valley Council has thoughtfully constructed for stranded mariners, and a …
Posted Dec 10, 2015, 1:23 PM by Posts Editor
Living Boat Trust Flag is unfurledThere was a good easterly blowing on Monday night, and when our new flag was unfurled it snapped and stood out from the pole most satisfactorily, displaying the midnight blue knot sewn onto the orange ground by Margaret Forster. It had for company a Tasmanian flag, presented by local member Lara Giddens, and an Ozzie, presented by Martin and Judy Krynen. The new plaque attached to the post by Dick Geeves was unveiled by Scout commissioner Mike Patten after some appropriate words. The ‘veil’ was an old gang show scarf of Dick’s. Thanks to one and all. See pics below.
Posted Dec 8, 2015, 4:00 PM by Posts Editor
The cryptic history of Port DaveyJohn Wadsley (from TMAG) writes:‘…The final 2015 meeting of the Tasmanian Historical Research Association will be held in the Royal Society Room tomorrow evening at 8pm, 8th December. Entry at TMAG, 19 Davey Street entrance. Tony and Janet Fenton will be talking about Tony’s research and upcoming book on the history of Port Davey in a paper entitled The cryptic history of Port Davey. All are welcome to attend.’ (image courtesy Jeff Jennings)
Posted Dec 7, 2015, 3:06 AM by Posts Editor
Little Boat Choir concertFranklin Palais writes: ‘Hi Music Lovers, Wanting a quality yet affordable night out of fun, food and entertainment? Have family & friends visiting and at a loss of how to entertain & impress your guests? Then look no further to Little Boat Choir this Saturday. Come and support Tiffany and her band of singers for their first big gig. Will they be nervous, you bet. Word on the ground is they have been rehearsing for just under a year now and are ready to venture out and hit the stage.Find out for yourself if the rumour is true, your neigbour can actually sing!’ Flyer attached: http://bit.ly/1m6AIja
Posted Dec 7, 2015, 3:08 AM by Posts Editor
Burnt to the waterlineLBT member Brian Marriott described to we skeptics how his fire crew had been called out to North Franklin to douse a motor boat that had inexplicably caught fire and ‘burnt to the waterline’. When we saw this photo from Martin Kell we were skeptics no longer.
Posted Dec 7, 2015, 2:47 AM by Posts Editor
Cruise to Maria IslandEa Lassen draws our attention to the following opportunity. Maria Island new year cruise: Duration: 7 days, 6 nights; From AU$ 2,400.00; Sail aboard Yukon and enjoy Tasmania’s amazing South East coast, white sweeping beaches, rusty granite boulders of massive dimension secluded wooded anchorages this is voyage of surprising contrasts; The rounding of Tasman island is an awesome experience its sheer cliffs always impress; This is an excellent opportunity to take a comfortable low-impact holiday and feel the amazing sensation of a wooden ship under sail at sea; Embark 28th of December 2015 in Franklin 10:00; Disembark 3rd of January 2016 in Franklin 16:00. For more information see the Yukon Tours web page: yukon …
Posted Dec 6, 2015, 2:08 PM by Posts Editor
Big Monday night at the LBT coming upCome this Monday (6th December) and: sail the Grebes (from 3pm) weather permitting, or work on them if it’s lousy; find out what the new LBT flag looks like when it is unfurled by the scout commissioner; help christen our new Tasmanian flag (presented to us by our local member Lara Giddens); help install the flagpole plaque; see Dick Geeves in his scout uniform; Hans is cooking.
Posted Dec 5, 2015, 9:01 PM by Posts Editor
Excursion to Whale PointMandi Wheatley from Huon Valley Council writes:‘I just wanted to let you and your members know that the Huon Valley Council has begun senior’s excursions and our next one will be to the old site of the Kermandie Experimental Pulp and Paper Mill on Whale Point Road, Port Huon and then on to Rivendale Gardens, Geeveston on Thursday 10 December. A free bus leaves Huonville in the carpark behind the Town Hall at 10am.’ Flyer attached: http://bit.ly/1m2OdAu Pic from Mercury Jan 3rd 1928
Posted Dec 4, 2015, 11:10 PM by Posts Editor
Shed extension: wall frames go upGraham Wright writes:‘Good progress today with the extension: All hands on deck to raise the frames; Towards the end of the day, last frame assembled and now ready to make the frame for the roller door; Peter and Greg have made a lot of progress on the windows with most of them painted with undercoat.’
Posted Dec 1, 2015, 2:00 AM by Posts Editor
Sail doctors at workOn Monday night John and Martin fixed some of the ‘band aids’ that have been applied to the rigs for the Grebes, and began the task of standardising these rigs so that moving from boat to boat won’t confuse we beginners.
Posted Nov 30, 2015, 2:10 PM by Posts Editor
A gleaming Swiftsure‘Swiftsure’ has had a major refurbishment, completed just in time to compete in ‘her’ regatta. There are new bits everywhere – thole pins, thole pads, cleats, a mast step – and a paint job to match. Thanks to all who contributed – Hans, Peter Laidlaw, Ron, Endra and there were more (you know who you are).
Posted Nov 30, 2015, 2:02 PM by Posts Editor
Swiftsure Regatta photosFor some wonderful photos from Saturday see http://bit.ly/1l14LIT
Posted Nov 30, 2015, 6:37 PM by Posts Editor
Slabbing the blue gumLooks like Steve White’s Lucas Mill did a very good job of cutting up the large bluegum log that has been lying on the foreshore for some time. Should be some good keels come out of that lot. Sequence of operations from Greg Guy.
Posted Nov 30, 2015, 3:45 PM by Posts Editor
Plague flag: should we worry?We are assuming that the black and yellow plague flag was hung with the rest of the bunting on the Yukon out of enthusiasm for the Swiftsure Regatta, not because David Nash knows something that the rest of us don’t. Regatta report to follow shortly. If you have pics of the event please forward them to sec@lbt.org.au
Posted Nov 29, 2015, 2:26 PM by Posts Editor
Classic Xmas Movie Night at the PalaisDeb Coombes writes:‘Hi Team Movies, Yes it is that time of the year to wear silly hats and eat and drink to excess for it is the Franklin Palais Classic Xmas Film night. Our Christmas film is one that will impress and may even change your life. Sunday 6th December, we will be screening the sensational, multi award winning, 1990 Canadian film “Strangers in Good Company’” also known as “The Company of Strangers”. I have yet to read a dodgy review of this film…Sunday 6th December, upstairs at the Franklin Palais. Doors open 6.30pm, movie starts when someone flicks the lights…. After 7.15pm but before 7.30pm.’More about the fillum from Deb attached: http …
Posted Nov 29, 2015, 12:14 PM by Posts Editor
LBT flag on the sewing tableWe hope to have a ceremonial unfurling on Monday week. No pressure on the seamstress though!
Posted Nov 26, 2015, 7:06 PM by Posts Editor
Wet Thursday at the shedSteve very sensibly based himself inside, but others weren’t so lucky. Graham Wright sent the following pictures: Steve trimming the new keel timber; The Marine Rescue Vessel in Franklin for a bit of TLC; Endra braving the weather doing some last minute adjustments to Swiftsure; Frames a plenty, One more to assemble and one more to build then the frames can go up.
Posted Nov 26, 2015, 2:20 PM by Posts Editor
How windy was it?Spring gales seem to have arrived late this year, prompting furrows on the brows of nervous sailors and excursion organisers. What we all need when judging whether or not to leave the shore is guidance on what those forecasts of ’25-40 km/hr’ actually mean. Enter the indefatigable Tony Dow of HR Vista Weather (hrvistaweather.com) who provides us not only with forecasts but also with RECORDS. If you were out and about and it seemed like a gale you can check Tony’s graphs and calibrate your wet finger against the numbers that the forecasts deal in. One way to do it: go to the LBT website, click on the weather summary at top right to take you …
Posted Nov 25, 2015, 11:19 PM by Posts Editor
Ministering to the GrebesThe rigging and sails for the Grebes are looking a bit tired. We need to inspect them and identify and make the necessary repairs. The next opportunity to do this is this coming Monday afternoon (30 December) after 3pm (an ‘off’ day in the sailing calendar). John Walduck is very familiar with the intricacies of the Grebe rig, and has offered to be ‘leading hand’. For those of us less familar, this will be a good opportunity to see how to distinguish between a gaff and a boom and how all the bits fit together. Come along and help out.
Posted Nov 25, 2015, 12:46 PM by Posts Editor
Good news from the polliesWe aren’t sure whether it was Hans Sipsma’s cooking or Tony Cooper’s barbecue which tipped the scales, but Brian Green, leader of the opposition, enjoyed last week’s visit and meal with us so much that he came back to Franklin to announce that ‘a Labor State Government would contribute $450,000 to establish a Maritime Heritage Centre to expand on the town’s renowned Wooden Boat Centre’. The Brooke St Pier roof will rise again. Read all about it in the ‘Mercury online’ at http://bit.ly/1IfuQsn (if you missed it in Tuesday’s paper edition). Pic from the Mercury Newspaper online
Posted Nov 25, 2015, 11:14 PM by Posts Editor
Australian Wooden Boat Festival newsletterA reminder that the AWBF newsletter includes lots of items of interest to we Tassie boaties: to view it go to http://awbf.com.au/ and choose News Blog from the menu. Whilst there you can subscribe, and have the newsletter arrive in your email inbox. Our own Laurence Burgin (franklinmarine.com.au/) had a great article on ‘Cruising to Tasmania’ published in the most recent edition – see http://bit.ly/1R1IRRu. Also of interest, in this season of Swiftsure Regatta, is the item about the Dunalley Boat School where the local school kids are helping build wooden dinghies. See http://bit.ly/1NLYU0x Pic from AWBF Newsletter
Posted Nov 29, 2015, 2:20 PM by Posts Editor
Scottish-Australian FlagWe aren’t sure where Dick Geeves procured this flag, but we think it might be very appropriate to fly on regatta days featuring the St Ayles Skiffs. Maybe the crew going to the the next Skiffieworlds (http://scottishcoastalrowing.org/skiffieworlds-2016/) should ask Dick if they can borrow it. There is some information about provenance at http://www.crwflags.com/fotw/flags/au_ances.html#scot
Posted Nov 24, 2015, 3:22 AM by Posts Editor
Twilight Fish and Chip Row on Saturday 5 DecemberRow both skiffs (plus any other boats or kayaks) up to Huonville for a fish and chip dinner. Boats departing LBT at 4.30pm. $5 per person fee to LBT. Those interested will be sent more details closer to the date. If you want to join us, email Barb Dawson barbara.dawson@bigpond.com
Posted Nov 22, 2015, 12:11 AM by Posts Editor
Get your ‘Pristine South’The new edition of ‘Pristine South’ is just out, and there is a pile of copies in the shed. Judging from the annotated map included there are more attractions in Franklin that at Disneyland. It’s difficult to understand how visitors will find time to see the bright lights of Cygnet, Huonville and the rest. See the snippet included below (words from Annette, pic from Nell) which illustrates. For a taste of similar delights see last year’s edition online at www.huonnews.com/images/Magazines/PS_2015_NEW.pdf. No doubt the 2016 version will be up soon.
Posted Nov 21, 2015, 3:18 PM by Posts Editor
More information about Swiftsure RegattaFrom Karen Corbin: Saturday 28* November 2015: M.C. — Dave Pittaway; Safety Boat – Rowan (ready to go from pontoon); Starter boat — Nancy (Barb Dawson); BBC and drinks available for purchase from LBT. Program of events on the water:9-12.30pm- Kids rowing events, games, rowing machine and introduction to kayaks; Registration for afternoon events open until 12.45 at the Regatta; Depending on enrolment, teams will be female, male and mixed. Races will be timed and if no finals then fastest time in each category will be deemed winners! *** Teams and individual rowers are encouraged to register prior to the day by email to Karen Corbin at kcorbin4216@yahoo.com ***; 1pm-3pm : St Ayles skiff races begin and continue …
Posted Nov 21, 2015, 12:11 PM by Posts Editor
Organising an LBT excursion?In the past LBT ‘on the water’ activity has tended to be either long, multi-day expeditions, or sailing and rowing directly from the shed. Our new trailers make possible intermediate excursions, as the very successful trip from Tinderbox to Bruny Island (http://bit.ly/1YliqbF) demonstrated. Lorrie Harrison and David Budd have put together checklists to assist with managing excursions and trailers: see http://bit.ly/1QyWOqT and http://bit.ly/1Xf8LRv . These documents can be found on the LBT website at any time under the Resources => Excursions menu.
Posted Nov 20, 2015, 3:48 PM by Posts Editor
Lucas Mill DemonstrationJohn Young writes:‘…a group of local landowners who are interested in the sustainable management of their timber-covered blocks in the future, have arranged for Steve White, the proud owner of a portable Lucas mill, to come down to the riverside just south of the Living Boat Trust at 10 am on Sunday Morning, 29th November, and demonstrate the use of his machine, which is an example of the new forest technology that will contribute to the sustainable management of our local forests in the future. This is an opportunity to learn how these remarkable machines work, and how they can be used for small scale private forest management. It will also help to have enough people there, at …
Posted Nov 19, 2015, 6:04 PM by Posts Editor
Busy day at the shedGraham Wright writes:’Busy day today – 4 projects worked on: Angela and Greg preparing the window frames; Tony cutting studs for the frames; Steve fine tuning the last piece for Gretchen’s keel; Hans continues repairs on Swiftsure; Gretchen no longer has a see through keel; Frame number two almost completed.’
Posted Nov 19, 2015, 12:47 PM by Posts Editor
Franklin Primary Schools Fundraising Quiz NightPalais Theatre, Franklin, Saturday 28th November 7pm. Georgie Fitzgerald writes: ‘On behalf of the fantastic children at Franklin Primary School, we, the School Association, ask you to please consider supporting our School in its efforts to raise funds which will support beneficial school programs as well as our proposed new nature-based play area. This year Franklin Primary School have decided to hold a game show styled Quiz Night as an opportunity to raise funds to develop a wonderful play area that will be used by the Prep to Grade 6 students at Franklin Primary School. ‘ Bookings at the Post Office, the school, or trybooking.com/JJDK . See flyer below for more details.
Posted Nov 18, 2015, 2:40 AM by Posts Editor
Latest from the shed buildThe team have framed up the front wall.
Posted Nov 17, 2015, 10:29 PM by Posts Editor
Up the creek (with a paddle)David Budd had the ‘On Water Program’ crews exploring the swampy lagoons along the river and Egg Island. This one petered out to nothing: the only way out was to turn around and go back.
Posted Nov 18, 2015, 12:02 AM by Posts Editor
Skyping New YorkSpotted in the back of Nancy: this couple speaking with their children who are overseas. Is this a service we should consider adding to Nancy’s business model?
Posted Nov 18, 2015, 2:08 AM by Posts Editor
Some love and attention for ‘Swiftsure’‘Swiftsure’ needs attention both to her wood and paint work to be shipshape for the regatta at the end of November, and there were plenty of willing hands to assist on Monday night.
Posted Nov 18, 2015, 2:10 AM by Posts Editor
Up she goesDick Geeves cleared away the last of the rubble left from digging the hole for the pole, then folded and hoisted the flag. Jesse Wardell helped him give the halyard a tug, and success: the flag unfurled, and wasn’t even upside down!
Posted Nov 17, 2015, 3:57 AM by Posts Editor
Come and be part of Swiftsure Regatta 2015David Budd writes:“Helpers wanted for Schools section of Swiftsure Regatta, Saturday 28 Nov, 9 – 12.30 approx. Boat steerers, marshals, race starters and timers plus on-land competition supervisors required. Contact David Budd/Barbara Dawson 0408 212 495″
Posted Nov 17, 2015, 1:52 AM by Posts Editor
Steamers on the HuonHow long is it since there have been four steamers in Franklin (five counting Cartela) at the same time? We don’t know, but they made a fine site on Sunday morning, cruising up to Huonville with an accompanying fleet of rowers and paddlers. Thanks to the Wooden Boat Guild for organising this event. Pic from Endra O’May
Posted Nov 15, 2015, 12:34 PM by Posts Editor
Fund raiser for Franklin tennis courtsFrom David Moore:LOL Comedy 2015 at The Palais in Franklin: When: Saturday, 21 November 2015. Bar & Food from 6pm, show from 7.30pm; Where: The Palais, 3388 Huon Highway, Franklin, 7113; Cost: $30;There will be a choice of lovely curries and rice like last year, plus some other options;Recommended for people aged 15 years up; Buy tickets online: www.trybooking.com/JDPR (limited doors sales on the night if not sold out). 16 Tasmanian Comedians Head to the Huon. This year’s Big Comedy Night at The Palais theatre in Franklin is on Saturday 21 November, starring Tasmania’s own Josh Earl, award winning comedian, cake enthusiast and former host of TV show Spicks and Specks …
Posted Nov 15, 2015, 11:42 AM by Posts Editor
Monday night test flag flyingWhen we have a chance to get organised we plan to have a bit of ceremony for the flagpole involving the Scouts (who donated it), but on Monday there will be a ‘secret’ test run (don’t tell), when we also have some SPECIAL GUESTS. Come along and make it a big night. Pic from wikimedia
Posted Nov 15, 2015, 2:27 AM by Posts Editor
LBT at the Huon ShowIn amongst the chooks, the bulls, the sideshow alleys, the wood choppers, the ute musters, the vintage engines, that old time country music and lots more, we were there. Thanks to all who helped out, particularly Aspen and Annette who were did the whole day shift, from setup to pull down.
Posted Nov 14, 2015, 7:47 PM by Posts Editor
The neighbours are on the moveOnly a couple of days ago the rowing club site was a bare concrete slab, but all of a sudden their new premises are taking shape.
Posted Nov 14, 2015, 7:31 PM by Posts Editor
Evinrude fixedRon Haggart gave no guarantees when he asked for reconditioning kits for our misfiring (and venerable) Evinrude outboard motor, but their installation did the trick. The Evninrude may not be a thing of beauty, but we now have a backup for the Yamaha on the safety boat. Thanks Ron.
Posted Nov 14, 2015, 7:49 PM by Posts Editor
La Chaloupe coming to ‘Steam Rally’Ron Wells (from Dover) writes:’Our Wooden Toy sign is starting to attract customers. Most callers are travelling and don’t have room for large items. One tourist called in Thursday and wanted to buy a piece of myrtle. It was marked as $3 but he gave $5. I asked him where he was from and he said he was from Geelong / Queenscliff area in Victoria. On the off chance I asked if he knew Jack Beazley. Jack is a great mate and they are in several clubs together. Jack Beazley is the Master Shipwright who built La Chaloupe. I told the gentleman that we are taking La Chaloupe to Franklin on Sunday to race against steam powered boats and …
Posted Nov 13, 2015, 1:42 AM by Posts Editor
WOW newsletter, 11th NovemberIncludes crews for the ‘Steam Rally’ regatta. See attached: http://bit.ly/1kNmG4R
Posted Nov 11, 2015, 12:01 PM by Richard Forster
The shed build beginsOn Wednesday Brett, Allan and Tony made a big start on the framing. First job was to get a ledger board in place along the top of the existing wall.
Posted Nov 10, 2015, 9:40 PM by Posts Editor
The caring carrierHayden Abbot didn’t just bring our (green hardwood) cladding down from Buxton, he stacked it carefully in a quiet, shaded corner and covered it so that it won’t dry out too quickly. Thanks Hayden.
Posted Nov 10, 2015, 9:24 PM by Posts Editor
Raising the flagpoleOn Monday evening Dick Geeves marshaled the troops and up she went. Pics from Ninka and Endra
Posted Nov 11, 2015, 3:19 PM by Posts Editor
LBT sailing nights contact listA couple of weeks ago Mike Dredge organised sailing on a Monday evening, an event which we can safely say was very much enjoyed by all who participated. Since then conditions have been against us, which has highlighted the need for a contact list so that those involved can be rapidly informed if there is a change to plans. If you wish to be added to this list please complete the first form below (http://bit.ly/1QfCmuZ). If you wish to make comments or suggestions regarding our sailing days enter them into the second form (http://bit.ly/1QfB6bt), and they will appear in the table that follows after a screen refresh.
Posted Nov 10, 2015, 3:18 AM by Posts Editor
Occupational Health and SafetyRon Haggart has spent a lot of time compiling a list of the OHS documents which are the reference for our own policy. He has put a hard copy in the shed for review, and there is a copy online at http://bit.ly/1le0L7r . Thanks Ron.
Posted Nov 8, 2015, 4:26 PM by Posts Editor
Flagpole raisingAs noted previously in this column, the hole is dug and the painting done. Dick Geeves is coming along this (Monday) afternoon to get organised to erect the flagpole. Be prepared to role up your sleeves and help out if you come to the working bee/dinner tonight. Let’s hope the weather is kind.
Posted Nov 9, 2015, 7:03 PM by Posts Editor
Huon Show next SaturdayAs everybody knows, the Huon Show is the BEST, and the LBT has a proud tradition of being involved. The more the merrier, and if you can help out please contact the secretary on 04977 86572 or sec@lbt.org.au. See the attached todo list: http://bit.ly/1HnXwV2 The LBT truck (skipper Roger Linnell, Admiral Graham Rankin) leads the Big Parade in a previous show.
Posted Nov 8, 2015, 12:17 PM by Posts Editor
Steamers v ShielasBarbara Dawson writes:‘Still looking for a few more ‘Sheilas’ to make up 2 skiff crews to race 1km against 2 steamboats next Sunday morning. Race start approximately 9am. After this short race, steamboats and accompanying flotilla will cruise up to Huonville and back. It would be great if a couple of skiffs rowed up there with them. These crews can be mixed. For those of independent disposition, cruise up to Huonville in your own boat and enjoy the spectacle.Contact Barb if you want to take part in the Sheilas race barbara.dawson@bigpond.com’ This notice also serves as a reminder of this event (being organised by the Wooden Boat Guild). Come down on Sunday morning to be …
Posted Nov 8, 2015, 12:21 PM by Posts Editor
Pineapple RaidThe Queensland boat ‘Boxer’ and crew were an enthusiastic and spectacular part of Tawe Nunnugah 2015, and they had such a good time that they (like the Kiwis) have decided to have a Raid of their own, calling it the ‘Pineapple Raid’. Route & Itinerary. Thursday 11th & Friday 12th (AM) February: Boats assemble at Southport Yacht Club. Friday 12th February 10am: Start of 1st leg North of Runaway Bay, sail up Canaipa Passage finishing at RQYS Canaipa. Saturday 13th February 2nd leg start from RQYS Canaipa and sail round bay Islands: Karragarra, Macleay, finishing off Little Ship Club North Stradbroke Island. Sunday 14th February: 3rd leg sail South West with a finish at Weinam Creek. See http://pineappleraid.com/ for more …
Posted Nov 7, 2015, 2:11 PM by Posts Editor
Underwater Logging Operations – Lake Pieman/Reece DamOf interest to we consumers of Huon Pine: From Marine and Safety Tasmania; Notice No.: M146-15; Valid From: 4/11/2015; Valid Until: 4/11/2017. Notice Content: Mariners are advised underwater logging operations in Lake Pieman/Reece Dam will be undertaken from November 2015 for approximately two years. An exclusion zone will be clearly defined around the operation with signage and yellow buoys deployed at the edge of the active harvesting area. Recreational boat users can pass through the area after making contact with the barge operator through marine radio or by hand signals. Instructions stating the marine channel to use and other restrictions will be posted on signs. The harvest barge will display Restricted in Ability to …
Posted Nov 5, 2015, 4:33 PM by Posts Editor
Tholl pins v kabes v rowlocksThe next shot is the battle to find the best way to mount oars on a St Ayles Skiff was fired at Warnambool last Saturday. See pics below for their solution, and for other ideas for tillers and stretchers/foot rests. See also the really simple oar solution employed on the captains gig Annie Baxter – a stick and some rope. You row against the rope, and apparently it works very well – see them going at it using this ‘technology’ in Spanish rowing races: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4kaWJN1JgE8 Wooden rowlock Tiller Footrest Rope ‘rowlock’
Posted Nov 5, 2015, 2:46 AM by Posts Editor
‘Fast Messenger’ is launchedLast weekend Lorrie, Margueritte and Richard travelled to Warrnambool to join the celebrations for the launch of the latest Australian St Ayles Skiff: ‘Fast Messenger’. The deed was done amidst the skirling of bagpipes, the singing of sea shanties, speeches and a blessing. And she floated. Other skiffs had been brought over from Adelaide and Melbourne, and Fast Messenger joined them for an impromptu regatta on the Sunday on the local Edwards River. Warrnambool (and district) is a bit of a mecca for wooden boat enthusiasts. See the pics below for some examples of locally built boats which were exhibited as part of the festivities. Add these to a great venue (the Flagstaff Hill Maritime Village) and the terrific hospitality …
Posted Nov 5, 2015, 2:57 AM by Posts Editor
New Zealand Raid and RegattaThe Enzedders enjoyed our Tawe Nunnugah Raid and Regatta so much they are planning one of their own. Tanya Ankersmit writes:‘Dear Adventurers,Great to have you all on board for this inaugural Kiwi Raid and Regatta. I have a few key pieces of information included in this email that will assist you with your plans. Firstly though, are two forms; the annual membership form and the entry form. You are required to have a current membership to enter into the Kiwi Raid & Regatta. The entry form provides options for you during the two week event. If you could complete and return these to me. Included is the following: Map of our planned event through the Hauraki Gulf (http://bit …
Posted Nov 5, 2015, 1:09 AM by Posts Editor
Restoring ‘Olga’David Pittaway writes:‘A few years ago I was goaded into buying OLGA, a 30 foot long double ended Huon and Celery-Top Pine workboat, built by Harry Grinning in Strahan, launched in 1923. OLGA performed as a Huon Pine raft tow-boat; (towing Huon Pine logs rafted together, from the Gordon River, across Macquarie Harbour, to the Grining’s mill at Strahan) spent time as the Macquarie Heads pilot boat; was the Hobart Ports work boat when the Barnes Bay jetty was built, and she then spent time on the east coast out of Triabunna, adapted as a private pleasure boat, before spending her retiring days moored at Austen’s Ferry. She has been out of the water for …
Posted Nov 3, 2015, 1:06 PM by Posts Editor
WOW NewsletterSee the latest: http://bit.ly/1M2U7uS
Posted Nov 3, 2015, 12:49 PM by Posts Editor
Spanning the generations Dick Geeves, who tells stories about being a cadet during the Second World War, has sourced and restored a flagpole for us. On Monday night the Nash boys, who tell stories about crossing the Pacific in 2011, dug the flagpole hole..
Posted Oct 28, 2015, 11:18 PM by Posts Editor
Swiftsure Regatta 2015 – Saturday 28 NovemberHans Sipsma writes: ‘Yes, it’s thattime of year again. One of the opportunities to engage in a bit ofnot too serious rowing racing and fun on the water. Once again theformat has changed; it seems to happen every year. The school raceswill be held in the morning with a whole series of races andactivities, then a lunch break and the big kids get to play. DavidBudd is organising the morning and Karen Corbin and a team of WOWladies are organising the afternoon with a little help from me. At this point weare advising you to think about forming skiff teams to participate.Because we have only a few hours to cram …
Posted Oct 27, 2015, 3:11 AM by Posts Editor
Oamaru HarbourGlynn Shevels is travelling in New Zealand. He writes: ‘I have found an organisation in New Zealand that operates in a very similar way to the LBT. They repair and restore old boats and have a big regatta in November. Some great looking old wooden boats. Attached are some photos.’ We think Glynn is talking about the Friendly Bay Boat Society: https://friendlybayboatsociety.wordpress.com/
Posted Oct 26, 2015, 5:27 PM by Posts Editor
Celestial SkiffRichard Edwards writes:‘When I saw Sue’s boat picture from Norway I thought I should send you this boat picture. It is an image from an early celtic standing stone in Bantry Bay, South West Ireland. I think the research on it gives it the title ‘Voyagers in the Vault of Heaven. It is vertical so the four monks and their helmsman are heading upwards. As I looked at the image again it reminded me very much of our two lovely St Ayles Skiffs at the LBT Shed. (except the monks have two oars each and we onlty use one each). I bought the little metal relief in Southern Ireland.’
Posted Oct 26, 2015, 1:38 PM by Posts Editor
Woodworkingtools: MaintenanceandSharpeningOn November 8th our own Dennis Muscovich is running a course on this topic over at the Wooden Boat Centre. See flyer attached: http://bit.ly/1MPmUzi Pic from Malene Thyssen
Posted Oct 26, 2015, 1:10 PM by Posts Editor
Provenance of FlagpoleDick Geeves has organised a flagpole for us, and he writes: ‘I have been able to do some research with the help of Scouting Tasmania’s Heritage Museum about the flagpole. We unearthed a picture of the Huon Chief with a caption underneath: “The Parade Ground Flagstaff: A Mast of the Huon Chief”. The mast was originally longer, but when they erected it at ‘the Lea’ they buried it in the ground and about six foot disintegrated and thus it became a lot shorter’. Watch this column for news about a flagpole launch. Pic from the Linc Tasmania Catalog
Posted Oct 26, 2015, 12:48 PM by Posts Editor
Steam Rally, 15th NovemberAndrew Perkins writes:‘The proposed Wooden Boat Guild of Tasmania four steam boats on the Huon day is now less than 3 weeks away, the members of the Wooden Boat Guild and The Living Boat Trust are looking forward to the event ,the idea is for the four steam boats ,Nancy and any other interested boats ,dinghy’s, kayaks etc. to depart Franklin 9.30 -10 am and travel to Huonville for a lunch break and return in time to transit the canal or visit The Living Boat Trust or Franklin waterfront generally. Some non-powered boats may appreciate a tow particularly up stream as the flow and tide can be quite strong. Some non-boat owners may appreciate a …
Posted Oct 26, 2015, 12:30 PM by Posts Editor
Wanted: an open dinghy for crossing the Bass StraitAdrian Dale writes: ‘The plan is to use a period wooden open boat of clinker or carvel construction. The boat should be between 16 to 20 feet overall with at least 15 feet on the water. The boat will be propelled by Seagull engines for the crossing and use no other method of propulsion and thus there is no requirement for either sail of inboard engine. The boat needs to be structurally sound requiring minimal repair work and be capable of a long ocean crossing with good seakeeping qualities. Due to the limited power of the engines minimum windage is important and deck structures would be a considerable impediment. Seahorse with her low freeboard and shelter deck was an ideal …
Posted Nov 5, 2015, 3:08 AM by Posts Editor
Start of season/end of season for SkiffsWhilst it was t-shirt weather at the Seafarers Festival at Bellerive on Sunday, the Guardian was taking these beautiful, autumnal, ‘end of season regatta’ pictures on chilly Loch Katrine in Scotland, with everybody well rugged up: http://bit.ly/1jJ10Ha. Thanks to Barb and David for spotting this one. Pic from ‘the Guardian’
Posted Oct 25, 2015, 2:31 PM by Posts Editor
Billie at the Seafarers FestivalBillie was in the thick of almost frenetic on the water action at the Bellerive Seafarers Festival on Sunday. Annette, Endra and Steve barely had time to disembark each crew of happy rowers before the next was tumbling aboard. For many it was a first opportunity to get on the water, and they loved it.
Posted Oct 29, 2015, 2:59 PM by Posts Editor
On the water with local schoolsHuonville Primary School students came down for a day of rowing and paddle making on Wednesday. David Budd had an eye on the weather, and had organised plenty of indoor activities in case it turned foul. In the event the steady wind made being on the water difficult but not impossible, and after Mike Dredge had towed the boats upwind we were able to have a good row back to the shed. Once there the grown ups had a hard time keeping up a supply of paddle blanks to the students who enthusiastically sanded them into shape. A good time had by all and we look forward to more sessions with Huonville and the other local schools. If you want …
Posted Oct 23, 2015, 1:36 AM by Posts Editor
Origins of the St Ayles Skiff (part 4)There have been several candidates for the title of ‘ur-skiff’ submitted to this column over the years: we like this one from Sue Jenkins, spotted on a pub wall in Norway. It’s just possible that they are advertising the bottle of beer being flourished by the coxswain, who appears to have forgotten his rudder. Interesting too that they are carrying a rig.
Posted Oct 22, 2015, 1:08 PM by Posts Editor
Film launch invitation “The Shellfishers”Sheltered Passage (shelteredpassage.org.au) writes: ‘You are invited to celebrate the community launch and viewing of the short documentary film The Shellfishers; at the West Winds Community Centre, Woodbridge; on Saturday 14th November from 4pm to 5.30pm. Join story tellers from the film along with the filmmakers and the community supporters who have made possible the collection and sharing of these local stories exploring the health and history of shellfish harvesting from the unique Dentrecasteaux Channel. Feel free to bring your family and friends, and please inform us how many seats you require so we can plan for the event. Please RSVP via email to shelteredpassage@gmail.com We look forward to sharing this community story with you …
Posted Oct 22, 2015, 12:50 PM by Posts Editor
Damian Callinan – The Lost WW1 DiaryAT… The Franklin Palais ,3388 Huon Highway Franklin, Tasmania 7113 ON.. Saturday October 24th, 2015; Doors & bar open at 7.00pm for a 7.30pm start; Show finishes around 9.00pm; Hang around after the show and mingle with Damian, ask him questions about the show and take in the historical display provided by the Franklin History Group; Recommend minimum age of attendees is 15 years; Food and drink will be available – the bar will be open! Online ticket sales close at midday on Saturday the 24th of October. Limited door sales will be available on the night. It is best to buy your tickets online now to avoid disappointment.. Seating is general admission – first in best dressed. Click here …
Posted Oct 20, 2015, 2:48 PM by Posts Editor
First sailing day of the seasonA couple of weeks ago Mike Dredge waded into the gear corner and emerged from the chaotic jumble, dust and spiders with the rigs, rudders and centre boards needed to get the Grebes under sail. On Monday afternoon the four boats were rigged (after the third frustrated attempt in most cases), and by early evening were out on the water being powered along by a steady sea breeze coming up the river. An arbitrary course was set (Cartela to the two yachts anchored downstream), the starting hooter would have been sounded if we had had one, and Martin Riddle showed the rest of us a clean pair of heels as we raced around the marks.Thanks Mike, you’ve got …
Posted Oct 21, 2015, 4:49 AM by Posts Editor
Tagging the electrical equipmentAt many organisations this would called a ‘thankless task’, but not at the LBT because we know how much work is involved, and we say a big THANK YOU to Ron Haggart who has been doing the job. For a place that is supposed to be all about ‘traditional’ skills we seem to have an inordinate amount of electrical equipment: see the list that Ron has compiled at http://bit.ly/1LfU5hB
Posted Oct 17, 2015, 2:19 PM by Posts Editor
From the Arctic to Tasmania – the sea kayak’s journeyNext talk at the Maritime Museum:time: 12.00 – 1.00pm, Tuesday 3 November 2015; place: Royal Society Room, Tasmanian Museum & Art Gallery, Customs House, 19 Davey St entrance; all the details in the attached flyer, http://bit.ly/1OJBxbK , or phone the Maritime Museum on 6234 1427 for more details.
Posted Oct 17, 2015, 2:54 PM by Posts Editor
Pine log seeks good homeJohn Barnard writes:‘Pine log, species uncertain, length 8m, 130mm tapering to 50mm, strait and even taper. Possibly suit mast, flag pole, or some such. Free to anyone with a use. Contact: 0409 671 675’
Posted Oct 16, 2015, 2:02 PM by Posts Editor
Rowing Regattas on the HuonNotice to Mariners Valid From: 15/10/2015, until 9/11/2015. Rowing Regattas will be held on the Huon River at Franklin on Saturday, 24October and Sunday, 25 October, Saturday, 7 November and Sunday, 8 November2015. Mariners are advised the river will be restricted for other boating pursuits onSaturdays from 0800 to 1830 and on Sundays from 0800 to 1630.Boat owners are restricted from using the boat ramp at Franklin and enteringthe rowing restricted area during these times. The restricted area is thecourse and 500 metres either side of the course. Boat owners must followdirections of rowing officials. A public boat ramp is available at Shipwrights Point, south of Franklin.
Posted Oct 16, 2015, 1:54 PM by Posts Editor
Seafarers Festival, BelleriveComing up Sunday week:Bellerive Boardwalk; 10.30am to 4pm, 25 October 2015. ‘The Seafarers’ Festival is an action packed family day with a focus on nauticulture including music, activities, competitions, maritime information, a craft market and a selection of fine food. With over forty stalls around the site you’ll find maritime and historic information intermingling with hands on activities and a great stage program of music, dance and theatre. Dress up for the Costume Competition and be in the running to win excellent prizes. There’s the popular treasure hunt, have-a-go activities, visiting vessels and plenty to witness unfolding on the water.’ For the flyer see https://goo.gl/79rSeG , for a site map see https …
Posted Oct 15, 2015, 1:40 PM by Posts Editor
Committee meeting this ThursdayThe LBT committee meets once a month, usually on the third Thursday. To find out what they are thinking about look at the minutes of previous meetings: choose Resources from the LBT website homepage and then 2015-16 Minutes from either the pulldown menu or the Resources web page (see illustration below). Committee members and their responsibilities are listed on the Committee web page, accessible from About Us menu. If you want to raise an issue approach any of the members listed here, or email sec@lbt.org.au .
Posted Oct 14, 2015, 1:39 PM by Posts Editor
Facebook weather alertsTony Dow, who runs the wonderful Franklin weather site hrvistaweather, writes:‘In addition to the current Warnings/Alerts page: http://hrvistaweather.com/weather/wxadvisory.php , added new page to menu “Facebook Pages” which contains multiple Facebook Alert Pages : http://hrvistaweather.com/weather/wxsocialNetworks.php eg. TAZ Alert, TFS, BoM, EWN, Aurora etc.’ Worth checking out: click on the links above.
Posted Oct 13, 2015, 5:49 PM by Richard Forster
Final touch up for ‘Huon Explorer’Pic below shows ‘Peter the Painter’ applying the finishing touches to the ‘Huon Explorer’ before she goes out of the shed and into the water, ready for the On the Water Program next week. Peter, Greg and the Tuesday group have the Grebe fleet looking very smart for the start of the season.
Posted Oct 13, 2015, 5:35 PM by Richard Forster
Tinderbox to Bruny IslandAnnette Cauchi writes: ‘At 7am on Sunday an intrepid group of adventurers gathered at the LBT. TheValley was blanketed in fog but the forecast was fine as we hitchedup Billie, Imagine and Swiftsure for the short journey by road toTinderbox. After someimpressive displays of trailer reversing we were all in the water by9.30. The water was smooth as we began the short crossing to DennesPoint. From there we headed down the eastern side of Bruny headingfor Bulls Bay, our picnic destination. After lunch wewent for a walk to the point to admire the views and inspect someruins from whaling days and ancient Aboriginal middens. Then, with a mildsea breeze …
Posted Oct 13, 2015, 1:22 PM by Posts Editor
‘Billie’ in Australian Amateur Boat BuilderWho are those handsome people in white? To find out you will have to get the latest edition of Australian Amateur Boatbuilder. Thanks to Jonathan Wallis for writing this excellent article.
Posted Oct 11, 2015, 12:40 AM by Posts Editor
LBT boats on the moveThe blue skies have beckoned Swiftsure and the skiffs onto the trailers, ready for a trip to the seaside over on the Tinderbox Peninsula. Piet Lunstedt and Dennis Muscovich were last seen renovating the special Swiftsure trailer chocks that have been stored around the back for years.
Posted Oct 9, 2015, 5:37 PM by Posts Editor
Franklin Waterfront pull up bannerEa Nash has organised Andy Wilson to create a large pull up poster for display at tourist centres and events. We saw the fruits of his labours for the first time today, and is available to be taken out on appropriate locations: we are thinking that the first opportunity might be Seafarers Festival at Bellerive. See the full artwork attached: http://bit.ly/1WQMjQpWe may have to install traffic lights to manage the masses: who could resist coming to this place?
Posted Oct 9, 2015, 2:06 AM by Posts Editor
Pete’s school boatsFor the fourth year Peter Laidlaw, has absconded to Queensland to supervise the building of, you guessed it, the fourth dinghy for their little fleet. Pictures attached.
Posted Oct 9, 2015, 1:29 AM by Posts Editor
WOW NewsletterFor the latest on the LONG ROW and all the other WOW news see http://bit.ly/1No2X8q
Posted Oct 8, 2015, 2:19 AM by Posts Editor
Fun at the slipThose of you who missed out can participate vicariously with these pictures supplied by Graham Wright.
Posted Oct 8, 2015, 2:15 AM by Posts Editor
The big cleanupKaren Corbin writes:‘WOW’ would like to donate some of the funds raised for the 2015 St Ayles Skiff Regatta towards improvements at the LBT. Firstly, we would like to clean up and beautify the verandah and ‘green’ area. This includes emptying the verandah of timber and other items lying around and relocating the thicknesser ‘For more ideas see https://goo.gl/7YQan7. Contact Karen and WOW to be involved.
Posted Oct 4, 2015, 1:03 PM by Posts Editor
First cygnets of the seasonThe ‘Nancy’ cruisers were greeted by ma and pa swan and their brood on Sunday morning. The crop of sea grass around the dinghy shed is apparently haute cuisine for swans.
Posted Oct 10, 2015, 9:49 PM by Posts Editor
Visiting Wooden Boat CentralBrett Doubleday is currently travelling in the USA. He writes:‘We have just arrived at Brooklin Inn in Maine – wooden boat capital of US, and where Wooden Boat magazine comes from, as well as the Wooden Boat school. Think of Franklin on steroids. Within a few miles of here there are 12 boat yards building/maintaining/repairing wooden boats. The boat school had 850 students over summer doing 1 or 2 week courses on various subjects. Have taken photos of how our workshop could be (on a slightly smaller scale). Pretty fantastic to see.’ 850 students at the boat school!! Struth. We notice that on the Google map of the area (see below) Off Centre Harbour is listed as a …
Posted Oct 3, 2015, 11:39 PM by Posts Editor
Nancy trip to Port HuonMartin Riddle is taking Nancy to Port Huon on Monday for an inspection on the slip, and says he is happy to take LBT members as passengers. Sounds like a great opportunity to get on the water on what promises to be a warm, sunny day. For Martin’s contact number and plans for the day see https://goo.gl/CQ2DO0NOTE: NANCY LEAVING FOR PORT HUON AT 8AM MONDAY MORNING TO AVOID HIGH WINDS. Pic from Andrew Wilson
Posted Oct 3, 2015, 11:46 PM by Posts Editor
The big pour3337 Huon Highway was cement mixer central at 7.30am this Thursday morning. By the afternoon Andrew Gill and his team had laid all the concrete flooring for our extension.
Posted Oct 1, 2015, 5:15 AM by Posts Editor
Nano LibraryJane Johnson’s new plan for the premises of a ‘nano library’/book exchange is an upended dinghy, situated next to the stone wall which separates the Living Boat Trust from the Wooden Boat Centre. As the picture shows, she is already at work on it.
Posted Oct 1, 2015, 5:05 AM by Posts Editor
Spring at the Boat Trust is …New plover chicks hiding in the grass, and of course the parents going nuts every time somebody goes near.
Posted Oct 1, 2015, 2:17 PM by Posts Editor
Dick’s FlagpoleThe flagpole subcommittee (Southern Division, Franklin Chapter, chaired by David Nash) convened on Monday night, and recommended that a position in line with and close to the end of the verandah would be a suitable site for flying flags:the verandah post can be used for extra bracing; it will draw attention to the shed from the road, whilst being visible from the river; the nearby shelter may be useful when raising the colours in the rain.Any reactions to this recommendation should be mailed to sec@lbt.org.au Correspondence from Ray Watson:‘Peter was interested in some ideas for a flagpole support. A few pics attached. Cost estimates ~$20 for rustproofing paint, ~$15 for coach screws, ~$20 for …
Posted Oct 2, 2015, 5:35 PM by Posts Editor
Classic Movie Night at the Palais The monthly ‘Classic Movie Night’ is one of the great institutions of Franklin, and the Palais is in the process of installing digital equipment to make it even more betterer. Deb Combe writes to tell us that the next one is on the evening of October 4th: read her letter attached for details: http://bit.ly/1Lj2cx1 Pic from the Palais website: http://www.franklinpalais.com/
Posted Sep 29, 2015, 3:32 PM by Posts Editor
New website for ‘Yukon’A recent welcome bit of news is that ‘Yukon’ is no longer on the market, and will be calling Franklin home for the foreseeable future. Ea Lassen and the technical boffins have been working away behind the scenes on a new ‘Yukon Tours’ website, and the results of their labours are now available for all to see: yukon-tours.com.au/
Posted Sep 29, 2015, 4:13 PM by Posts Editor
The Franklin Quilt UnveilingSeptember 30, 2015@7pm for 7.30, Palais Theatre, Franklin, RSVP 0400717140 ‘When Franklin became the host of the International St Ayles Skiff Regatta held in the town in February, a seed was sewn (literally) to commemorate the event by producing a public artwork. From little things, big things have grown…or been sewn. Small stitches have become flowers, doors, windows, houses, a river and hills – the hand-made artwork that is the Franklin Quilt.’ Flyer (from Jane Johnson) attached: http://bit.ly/1FEPaav Pic from www.franklinpalais.com
Posted Sep 29, 2015, 2:52 PM by Posts Editor
Readvertising the ‘long row’We have already posted a notice about this event, organised by WOW for Sunday October 11th from Dennes Point to Bruny Island – see http://bit.ly/1QHEvwv . Here is a map from Endra for those who aren’t familiar with the locale and want to know what they might be letting themselves in for should they wish to participate (‘ Individual thwart bookings for the skiffs to: tesseh88@gmail.com ‘)
Posted Sep 27, 2015, 5:43 PM by Posts Editor
Huon Yacht Club Opening DayFrom the commodore, Stan Pickering:‘Opening Day marks the start of the Huon Yacht Club’s season. Come along and have a fun day with your friends getting ready for race mode. Dress up your boats! Dress up your crew! Dress up yourself! Please bring a plate. It’s an opportunity for members of either sex to show off their creative cooking skills. It will be a great day, lots of friendship, good food and a lot of laughs. So don’t miss Opening Day (because if you do you will have to wait until next year!) Members, friends and visitors are all welcome. See the attached poster for details. The Working Bee to clean and decorate the clubhouse is …
Posted Sep 27, 2015, 5:05 PM by Posts Editor
New committee for the FWWAThe annual general meeting of the Franklin Working Waterfront Association (http://www.fwwatas.org/) elected the following office holders and general members.President: John Enders; Vice President: Michele Durbin; Vice President: Madeline Ogilvie; Secretary: Michael Dredge; Treasurer: Sonia Shimeld; Public Officer: Alan Cato;General Members: David Nash, Helen Gasparinos, Tim Brown, Laurence Burgin. The Living Boat Trust looks forward to working with them.
Posted Sep 27, 2015, 3:21 AM by Posts Editor
Shed extension ready for concrete The mesh is down, the fence is up, and we await the mixer truck.
Posted Sep 27, 2015, 3:08 AM by Posts Editor
Reminder: Franklin Working Waterfront AGM This Sunday, 27th September,2pm at Franklin Primary School From Sonia Shimeld: ‘I have attached a copy of the agenda for the upcoming AGM (http://bit.ly/1R6KCv2) for FWWA. Please come along and help us sort out the wording for the changes to the constitution – Steve and John have already made suggestions for the wording for the second point. We would appreciate your help with choosing a logo too. I am looking forward to meeting you on Sunday – putting a name to an email address! If you haven’t yet paid your membership, you will be able to do so on the day.’
Posted Sep 25, 2015, 3:51 PM by Posts Editor
Reminder: consult the LBT calendar(s)We are getting to the busy part of the year, when demand for LBT resources increases, and the chances of those resources being unavailable or causing some clash with another activity increase. We try to get everything that’s important into the LBT calendar, accessible from the LBT homepage: see below (or http://bit.ly/1NPVNrR), so this is a good resource to consult. Note the link to the WOW calendar for the Skiffs, and that the passenger and crew calendars for ‘Nancy’ are on her web page at mv-nancy-tours.org. By default the calendar is displayed as an ‘agenda’, but you can choose a week or a monthly table view. Clicking on the items shows more details …
Posted Sep 25, 2015, 6:44 AM by Richard Forster
Tips for event planning in FranklinTony Dow has drawn our attention to the ‘weather risk pull down’ at the bottom of the home page of his HRVista (Franklin) weather site (http://hrvistaweather.com/). See below – it looks like a great feature. It shows things like High Rain/Wind/Heat/Cold/Snow etc. HRVista is the site that supplies the weather information displayed in the little box at the top right of the LBT home page: click on this box and you will be taken directly to HRVista Weather. In the past we have thanked Tony for his terrific work: this is a chance to do so again. A couple more tips from Tony included in the graphics below. From the Main Forecast Page the ‘WxSim …
Posted Sep 24, 2015, 3:42 PM by Posts Editor
Nancy FlyerAnnette Cauchi has been refining her original proposal: see below for the double sides of what she has come up with. Suggestions to sec@lbt.org.au
Posted Sep 22, 2015, 3:12 PM by Posts Editor
Project for saleJim Milner writes: ‘18′ Ply and Glass Trailer Boat Kit, has centre console, half completed. Must sell as moving interstate. $7,000, very negotiable. Phone Jim and Sue on 0418 743 168 for more information. (Cradoc, Tasmania)’
Posted Sep 24, 2015, 6:31 PM by Posts Editor
October Long Row – Tinderbox to Dennes Point to …From the WOW (Women on Water) Newsletter: DATE: Sunday October 11th. The Outside Chance crew: Andrea, Annette, Endra, Laura and Tess, are organising a long row, with a picnic and fire as the focus of the excursion. There are two options, depending on the day’s weather: Tinderbox, via Dennes Point, to Nebraska Beach, (inside Channel) Bruny Island; Tinderbox, via Dennes Point to Bull Bay, (North Eastern side) Bruny Island. The boat trailers (people with towing skills appreciated) will leave Franklin at 7a.m. with Imagine and Billie. Individual thwart bookings for the skiffs to: tesseh88@gmail.com This will be on a “first in, best dressed” basis. We are also inviting Cygnet’s The Swan, Taroona’s Chiton and …
Posted Sep 20, 2015, 2:23 PM by Posts Editor
Monday evening sailingMike Dredge is proposing that we use the lengthening dusk to get the Grebes out for a sail on Monday evenings. See the details in the attached thought/checklist: http://bit.ly/1YqidFc.
Posted Sep 20, 2015, 12:10 AM by Posts Editor
5 people in a car, 3 men in a boat?Is this mosaic car, sitting outside the new Moonah art gallery, the sort of inspiration we need for foreshore artwork?
Posted Sep 18, 2015, 5:54 PM by Posts Editor
Nautical flower bedSpotted at Barbara and David’s place.
Posted Sep 18, 2015, 5:45 PM by Posts Editor
New motor for ‘Leshelen’Over at the Wooden Boat Centre David Nash and the crew have been making good progress on restoring the big Tamar cruiser ‘Leshelen’, and during the week Hayden Abbot craned a new donk into her. Looks tiny by comparison to the size of the boat: a tribute to the efficiency of modern diesel motors.
Posted Sep 18, 2015, 5:05 PM by Posts Editor
First there was Billie, now there is DouglasLaurence Burgin from the chandlery has purchased a utility boat for the marina, also useful for emergencies, and he has named it after the late lamented ‘Duggie’. Duggie was a very familiar canine character along the waterfront.
Posted Sep 18, 2015, 4:48 PM by Posts Editor
Progress on the workshop extensionWith the very generous assistance of Duggans the initial preparation for the workshop concrete flooring slab has been completed: the site levelled with gravel and trenches dug. Concrete comes early next week (fingers crossed!).
Posted Sep 19, 2015, 11:59 PM by Posts Editor
Waterfront photo shootAndy Wilson had us all organised earlier in the week for a photography session – both Yukon and Nancy were out on the water with suitable landscape backdrops behind them. It will be interesting to see what he comes up with. As the attached happy snap shows, ‘Yukon’ under the Sleeping Beauty Range is an inviting prospect.
Posted Sep 24, 2015, 4:38 PM by Posts Editor
Mission to Seafairers: Talk ‘Over its one hundred years the Mission has opened its doors to an average of 4,000 seamen per year, while the Chaplain and his volunteers have visited many thousands of ships calling at the port of Hobart. While the nature of shipping in Hobart has been subject to almost constant change over that time, the needs of the seafarer have remained remarkably constant. Today, as in 1915, the Mission provides a place of relaxation away from the noise and activity of the ship, entertainment through games, sports and social activities, a space for quiet reflection and contemplation, opportunities to contact family or friends far away, companionship and support when things go wrong. For most seafarers the Chaplain and the …
Posted Sep 19, 2015, 11:56 PM by Posts Editor
First trip of the season for ‘Nancy’Thumbs up all round from the passengers who took the trip with Brian Pain around Egg Island last Sunday on a beautiful day. Graeme from Devonport grew up in Glaziers Bay, and it was the first time he had been through the canal in more than sixty years. He had stories of his father rowing the same route to school in Franklin. ‘Nancy‘ wasn’t the only attraction: sitting around in the shed afterwards sharing cake and a cuppa and a chat also rated highly. For those with a real interest in Nancy, don’t forget she has her own website: mv-nancy-tours.org, Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/mvnancycruise and newsletter: http://goo.gl/bS96ev Pics from …
Posted Sep 18, 2015, 5:16 PM by Posts Editor
A paddle on the ThamesDavid Budd sent ‘a link for the Great River Race (https://www.flickr.com/photos/135694152@N05/sets/72157658678163895/) which took place on the Thames last weekend – from Greenwich to Richmond – 21km and 300 row/paddle traditional boats. It includes some St Ayles skiff pictures (among the 600+ photos!). Imagine a race like this from Taroona to Lindisfarne!’ Something to aspire to (hmmm) Photo Ray Little (from http://flic.kr/p/xJf81Q)
Posted Sep 18, 2015, 1:33 AM by Posts Editor
Steamboats on the HuonBrian Marriot points us to this notice he has placed in the Marine Directory (http://marinedirectory.net/events/steam-boats-on-the-huon/): ‘The Wooden Boat Guild of Tasmania is planning a special boating day: Four (!!!) steamboats on the Huon River. This rare event is unlikely to be repeated until “Cartela” is steaming again. Steam boats that have indicated their involvement are “Lady Lavinia” and “Luxor” (both of which are based in Franklin, “Leprena” (soon to be based in Franklin) and “Lady Lyn” (from Hobart). Other steam boats are, of course especially welcome. But you have to ask permission if the name doesn’t start with “L”. The boats will steam from Franklin to Huonville and return, in company with …
Posted Sep 12, 2015, 4:08 PM by Posts Editor
Nancy participating in Seniors WeekThe Seniors Week program for 2015 is out (http://goo.gl/TFXF5y), and it includes ‘our’ event. Note the special one off price: maybe you (and your older kith and kin) want to take advantage.HUON RIVER HERITAGE CRUISE Living Boat Trust Explore the Egg Island Conservation Zone in the heritage motor launch ‘Nancy’. Enjoy the scenery, the reflections and the birdlife. Refreshments are included. For more information go to mv-nancy-tours.org:Tuesday 13 October 1:30pm–4:00pm; Thursday 15 October 1:30pm–4:00pm; Saturday 17 October 1:30pm–4:00pm; Sunday 18 October 1:30pm–4:00pm; 3337 Huon Highway, Franklin; Bookings: mv-nancy-tours.org or 6266 3586 (close: 9/10); Cost: $25.
Posted Sep 12, 2015, 3:56 PM by Posts Editor
Lifejackets not optionalThe word has been passed down that MAST will be policing their compulsory life jacket policy, and the accompanying sign will be put up in the dinghy shed, or some other appropriate place shortly. Please conform with it.
Posted Sep 11, 2015, 11:14 PM by Posts Editor
Dick’s FlagpoleNot only has Dick Geeves sourced a flagpole for us, he’s sorting out the problems (ie the rotten bits), and painting it too. Allegedly it started life as a mast on the ‘Huon Chief’, but it comes to us by way of the scout camp at ‘the Lee’ where it was replaced by something bigger. Dick tells us we have to dig the hole to put it in.
Posted Sep 11, 2015, 9:42 PM by Posts Editor
Tending to the electricalsThe disemboweled sander in front of them might have Greg and Ron scratching their heads for the moment, but we are confident that they will come up with a solution. Ron has brought a new level of expertise to the shed and has been systematically working through our equipment, condemning where necessary, fixing where possible.
Posted Sep 11, 2015, 9:35 PM by Posts Editor
Anybody know Tauronga?Graham Norris writes: ‘Do you know anything of a 42ft fishing boat Tauronga built at Bullock Point by Bert Morris and my brother Noel in 1949/50? It was sold to Ken Sward unfinished. She went through several owners over the years and met a sorry end in Feb 2002 near Wedge Island when she was run aground on 2 successive nights.’Graham can be contacted atmerikim@bigpond.com.au if you can add a chapter to the story.
Posted Sep 10, 2015, 9:11 PM by Posts Editor
‘Nancy Season’ is hereThe first bookings for the season are this coming Sunday: see the calendar on the mv-nancy-tours.org web page. There are only two people so far, and we need a couple more before we can go out. Anybody interested? Annette Cauchi and Ea Lassen have been working hard developing a marketing plan and material, and we should see the fruits of their labours shortly. The sandwich/chalkboard is ready to be displayed at shows and markets (alongside an LBT stall): we need to spread the word to the locals and that should be a good way to do it. Other ideas welcome: send them to sec@lbt.org.au
Posted Sep 8, 2015, 10:14 PM by Posts Editor
Australian Wooden Boat Festival – Big Log Story 2015The latest AWBF newsletter points to this interesting film on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7F1FhvxMixw. ‘Tasmania is the home of rare and unusual ship-building timbers including the celebrated Huon Pine. This short film describes the history of the Tasmanian ‘bullocky’ and the qualities of the timber in the shipwright’s hands. Film by Joe Shemesh, Storm Front Film’
Posted Sep 7, 2015, 12:04 AM by Posts Editor
‘Mary meets Mohammed’ at CygnetThe many people who befriended the Iranian refugees who participated in the St Ayles Skiff Regatta might be interested in the showing of this film on 6th September at 3pm at Cygnet. This will be the launch for a group called ‘Rural Australians for Refugees’. See the poster attached: http://bit.ly/1IPdgdp
Posted Sep 4, 2015, 2:44 PM by Posts Editor
‘Under the waves’ at Devonport Maritime CentreIf you haven’t visited this centre – just across the river from the ferry terminal – here is another good reason. We say ‘another’ because there is more than enough at the centre to keep you entertained and interested for hours. Under the Waves: Sinking Ships.. Artificial Reefs.. and Underwater Pretties Bass Strait Maritime Centre; 6 Gloucester Avenue, Devonport; Tuesday September 22 7.30pm; Admission – gold coin donation; RSVP Monday September 21 to 6424 7100 or info@bassstraitmc.com.au. See the attached flyer: https://goo.gl/prw7hh
Posted Sep 3, 2015, 9:55 PM by Posts Editor
Power for the dinghy shedThe small steps are often the significant ones. This will mean that Nancy can easily be recharged whilst moored at her normal pontoon. Big thanks to the Wooden Boat Centre and Martin Krynen for organising this.
Posted Sep 3, 2015, 9:40 PM by Posts Editor
‘Vera’, a sister to our ‘Nancy’Graham Norris writes: ‘The dimensions of the Vera were identical to Nancy. A Frisco Standard 8 h.p. single cylinder was the original engine. The stern has been altered and I think she has been converted to a motor sailer. Believed to be at Murdunna.’ It would be interesting to see how she sails – could be VERY interesting! Thanks for the pics Graham.
Posted Sep 3, 2015, 6:32 AM by Posts Editor
Hot gossip: Leprena (steam launch) coming to FranklinAndrew Perkins has brought her down before for us to admire the brightwork, but the whisper (shhh) is that ‘Leprena’ may be finding a more permanent home down here. That will make three steam boats in town. Peter Michelides has had his in a shed up on New Road for some time, but Martin Krynen’s ‘Lady Lavinia‘ has only recently arrived. There should be an event to celebrate. Leprena Lady Lavinia
Posted Sep 3, 2015, 6:41 AM by Posts Editor
Seafarers’ Festival One for the diary: Bellerive Boardwalk; 10.30am to 4pm, 25 October 2015. ‘The Seafarers’ Festival is an action packed family day with a focus on nauticulture including music, activities, competitions, maritime information, a craft market and a selection of fine food. With over forty stalls around the site you’ll find maritime and historic information intermingling with hands on activities and a great stage program of music, dance and theatre. Dress up for the Costume Competition and be in the running to win excellent prizes. There’s the popular treasure hunt, have-a-go activities, visiting vessels and plenty to witness unfolding on the water.’ For more information see http://goo.gl/ExA5iH Pic from Seafairer’s website
Posted Sep 3, 2015, 3:10 AM by Posts Editor
Working Waterfront Annual General MeetingSonia Shimeld writes: ‘The AGM will be held at 2pm on Sunday 27th September 2015 at the Franklin Primary School. We will also be holding a special meeting at that time to change a couple of items in the constitution (as per the attached document). If you have not yet updated your membership you can do so through an online form with a direct debit to the bank: http://www.fwwatas.org/contact-and-support.html or just drop into the Wooden Boat Centre and complete a form there.’ Committee Nomination form (https://goo.gl/miVxMW) and Notice of AGM (https://goo.gl/9LY3qN) attached. For details of the special business see http://bit.ly/1Q9oL5K
Posted Sep 2, 2015, 2:22 PM by Posts Editor
President’s ReportPeter Laidlaw has done a great job of summarising the LBT year (as well as delivering the odd spray) in his President’s Report: read it now at http://bit.ly/1JItPZs
Posted Aug 31, 2015, 9:39 PM by Posts Editor
Warrnambool Festival and Wooden Boat ExpoOur friends at Warrnambool (south west Victoria) plan to launch their new St Ayles Skiff on November 2nd (see attached https://goo.gl/RXcaYt), and it looks like there will be a good wing ding preceeding this event to celebrate: see the poster below (full sized version attached: https://goo.gl/sTaSzs). There are a number of people from the LBT who will be taking advantage of this opportunity: if you want to join us contact the secretary: sec@lbt.org.au (or, or course, just take yourself along).
Posted Aug 31, 2015, 5:06 PM by Posts Editor
Tree2Sea projectFrom the ABC website: ‘There are hopes a new project to teach young people boat building skills will turn around low high school retention rates and high unemployment in Tasmania’s Derwent Valley. About 20 young people have taken part in the Tree2Sea project, funded by Primary Health Tasmania and run through the Derwent Valley Community House, New Norfolk High School, the local council and a range of other organisations.’ Read all about it at http://goo.gl/jrLGrw. Looks like the structure has some similarities to the Derwent Raider shown to us by Allan Witt last year (second pic below) Pic from the ABC
Posted Sep 3, 2015, 6:43 AM by Posts Editor
Franklin (south) weathercamOne of the nice features of Tony Dow’s HRVista weather site (hrvistaweather.com/weather/) is an ‘almost’ live view across the river, just downstream from the Living Boat Trust. From anywhere on the www you can watch the fog roll in. We’ve added a link to this, just under the weather summary on the right hand side of the LBT homepage.
Posted Aug 30, 2015, 5:09 PM by Posts Editor
Tension at the LBT quiz nightWe were on the edge of our seats as David and Margaret added up the scores, and as Endra added one more straw to the flagpole her table had designed. It was not a night for the fainthearted.
Posted Aug 30, 2015, 3:45 PM by Posts Editor
New committee for the LBTAt the AGM on Saturday night the old committee was dismissed and a new one, listed below, was elected. President: Peter Laidlaw; Secretary: Richard Forster; Treasurer: Jackie Garnsey; Ordinary members: Ros Barnett, Endra O’May, Graham Rankin, David Budd, Hans Sipsma (currently ‘on leave’), Karen Corbin, Brett Doubleday. Tony Cooper, who originally nominated, withdrew due to an accident he recently suffered. We all wish him a speedy recovery. For all documents (including minutes) from the AGM see https://goo.gl/HoOZpP
Posted Aug 30, 2015, 3:30 PM by Posts Editor
LBT theme song?Those attending the social gathering that followed the AGM were supplied the following chorus, and asked to provide appropriate verses.We’re the mighty LBT, Just pay your dues and come and see, We’ve Grebes and Skiffs and Nancy too, To one and all we are true blue. We aren’t claiming it was worthy of Lennon and McCartney (help Tiffany!), but they gave it a red hot crack, and here are the responses we managed to collect. Formatted version (with music!) attached: https://goo.gl/EQB8FzWe’re the mighty LBT, Come join the committee, it’s anarchy, We’ve planes and nails and epoxy glue, And once a year we clean up too. We’re as happy …
Posted Aug 30, 2015, 5:22 PM by Posts Editor
Boaty pics from IrelandLBT members Ali McRae and Caro Bony are visiting the Emerald Isle and have taken their cameras with them. The ‘Kezia Gwilt’, shown below, was involved in trying to rescue survivors from the Lusitania, torpedoed in the First World War. More than 1200 drowned. Kezia Gwilt Young sailors heading out in fresh breeze into the Atlantic from Dingle Peninsula , County Cork Ireland. Light house at the end if Sheep’s Head peninsula West Cork, not far from the Fastnet Rock. Walking the ridge on Sheep’s Head.
Posted Aug 29, 2015, 9:36 PM by Posts Editor
The Wagonga PrincessGraham Rankin writes:‘While visiting our grand daughter (and her parents) in Canberra we had a lovely break at Narooma on the far south coast of NSW. Whilst enjoying our fish and chips at the aptly named Forsters Bay we spied what could be Nancy’s long lost cousin. The Wagonga Princess was built in Sydney in 1905 of Huon Pine. She was designed as a ferry for Kalimna Guest House at Lakes Entrance in Victoria and was originally called Kalimna. Interestingly, she is also has electric propulsion, having 16 batteries driving a 48 volt motor. I couldn’t close enough to check, but she appears slightly longer and beamier than Nancy. She now makes regular three hour cruises on …
Posted Aug 28, 2015, 3:19 AM by Posts Editor
Ministering to the GrebesHuon Explorer‘ comes in, and ‘Rhonda K‘ goes out (all shiny and new). Sun and weather aren’t kind to paintwork. Pics from Graham Wright
Posted Aug 28, 2015, 3:20 AM by Posts Editor
Franklin WeatherTony Dow has written to tell us that the new version of his forecasting and meteorological information site is now ‘live’: to see it go to http://hrvistaweather.com/weather/, or click on the brief weather summary at the top of the LBT home page. If you want to send him some feedback (like, maybe, thanks!) use the feedback page: http://hrvistaweather.com/weather/wxcontact.phpA reminder that if you want this data on your mobile device then Tony has you covered: go to http://hrvistaweather.com/WWL-mobile.php
Posted Aug 26, 2015, 5:21 AM by Posts Editor
New premises for the Huon Rowing ClubWe’ve watched the safety fences go up, and now de walls come tumblin’ down. Paul Newbon, foreman on the project, tells us that there have been various delays, but they hope the new building will be completed in the autumn. In the meantime the club is very fortunate to have the evaporator shed next door for storage, so the rowing program has not been disrupted too much. You can follow the build, and get other rowing club news from their Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/HuonRowingClubTas?fref=ts
Posted Aug 25, 2015, 8:41 PM by Posts Editor
150th Birthday for ‘Admiral’Fiona Peate writes: ‘Admiral is celebrating her 150th birthday today (26 August). This Saturday Members of the Restoration Group, friends and crew are planning to re-enact the original launch at the Hobart Domain then row around to Waterman’s Dock arriving 12 midday. It is hoped there will be media coverage at Waterman’s Dock. Our Facebook page has info and photos https://www.facebook.com/admiralrestorationgroup. Perhaps your members could ‘like’ our Facebook page.’ Admiral has been a welcome participant in LBT activities, perhaps most memorably to transport the Governor to the centenary celebrations for the Palais Theatre in 2012 (see pics below). We hope that tradition will continue.
Posted Aug 26, 2015, 2:49 PM by Posts Editor
Huon Yacht Club AGMOur friends at Port Huon have elected a new committee and appointed new officers. Read all about it in a letter from the new commodore Stan Pickering: https://goo.gl/ba8eJY
Posted Aug 24, 2015, 3:51 PM by Posts Editor
‘Ice in the Rigging’: book launchJohn Wadsley (TMAG) writes: ‘If anyone is interested in attending the book launch of ‘Ice in the Rigging: Ships of the Antarctic, 1699 – 1937’, you’d better get your skates on and let us know!! Just to remind you, the book will be launched by Janet Carding, Director of the Tasmanian Museum and Art Gallery, at the Institute for Marine and Antarctic Studies, 20 Castray Esplanade, Hobart on Thursday 27 August 2015, 5.30pm for 6.00pm. Copies of the book will be available for sale after the launch. Your invitation to this event is attached (https://goo.gl/NbFSzF), so if you are planning to attend, please RSVP by email ASAP direct to Mark Hosking at the Maritime Museum …
Posted Aug 23, 2015, 9:48 PM by Posts Editor
Final Reminder: AGM and Quiz nightTHIS COMING SATURDAY, 29TH AUGUST The LBT Annual General Meeting (starts 6pm) will be followed by a social and quiz night at the Franklin Bowls Club. Bar opens 6.45pm and all welcome, $5 members, $10 non members. Soup and bread will be available for $5 a serve. Members are asked to bring a plate that can be shared.Book a table for your group using the form below, or sign on to the sheet in the shed. Pic from wikimedia
Posted Aug 23, 2015, 4:13 PM by Posts Editor
Volunteers wanted for LBT schools On the Water ProgrammeHelp train our future boaties!!!! Starts mid October, runs for approx 5 weeks. Helpers wanted – choose your day(s) – Mondays, Wednesdays, Thursdays 10.00am – 2.30pm. For more details, contact David Budd ozskiff@gmail.com or 62663571
Posted Aug 22, 2015, 8:16 PM by Posts Editor
New look for the AWBF onlineFrom Paul Cullen (manager, AWBF):‘… We are writing to you because we’re about to introduce a brand-new format for the Australian Wooden Boat Festival Newsletter. It’s faster and more responsive, there’s more interesting content and it easier to get at. In the past, when you signed up to receive the AWBF Newsletter, we would send you a PDF document by email, once every couple of months in the off year, then monthly as the festival got closer. In the new format, you will get a summary of new stories and features, delivered automatically to your Inbox once a month. You don’t have to download or print anything – one click will take you straight to the …
Posted Aug 22, 2015, 5:23 PM by Posts Editor
Notice to MarinersTitle: Navigation Aid – Huon River; Valid From: 21/8/2015; Valid Until: 30/9/2015. Notice Content: Mariners are advised that the port lateral navigation aid located on the edge of the reef at Shipwrights Point is currently unreliable. A further notice to mariners will be issued when the aid is restored to normal.
Posted Aug 21, 2015, 3:43 PM by Posts Editor
Epoxy cityOver at the Wooden Boat Centre Peter Laidlaw is gluing the second layer of strip planks onto the new ‘steamboat’ he is building. Lots of staples, cable ties and epoxy being put to use (see bottom pic below for detail).
Posted Aug 20, 2015, 9:47 PM by Posts Editor
Thursday at the shedRhonda K is the first of the Grebes to be painted and varnished for the new season: she is now ready to go back on the water. Whilst she was being attended to Allan and Angela were busy digging the drainage at the back of the shed. Unfortunately this is the shady side on these, chilly, muddy and wet days, so it was a good job to get out of the way. We are just about ready for the plumber. Pics for Graham Wright, Angela and Allan
Posted Aug 20, 2015, 7:19 PM by Posts Editor
Tasmanian Craft FairThe Tasmanian Craft Fair in Deloraine (Friday October 30th – Monday November 2nd – see http://www.tascraftfair.com.au/) is a major event, and this year the focus is on boats and boat building. The Wooden Boat Centre will be attending, and are offering the opportunity to be involved to Living Boat Trust and Working Waterfront members. See the attached letter (https://goo.gl/K9Q3WK), and if you wish to participate contact Ea Lassen: Phone: 6266 3586, Email: info@woodenboatcentre.com Pic from Craft Fair website
Posted Aug 19, 2015, 10:00 PM by Posts Editor
Digging the shed sewage connectionThe pics (from Glynn Shevels) tell it all. That’s the last we hear about the Tuesday ‘blokes’.
Posted Aug 17, 2015, 8:57 PM by Posts Editor
‘Tip of the Iceberg’ at Maritime MuseumLunchtime talk presented by Ian Morrison, Senior Librarian Heritage Collections, Tasmanian Archive and Heritage Office: Antarctic Resources in the Tasmanian Archive and Heritage Office. Time: 12.00 – 1.00pm Tuesday, 1 September 2015; Place: Royal Society Room, Tasmanian Museum & Art Gallery, Customs House, 19 Davey St entrance; Phone the Maritime Museum on 6234 1427 for more details. See attached flyer for details (https://goo.gl/nSOVdF)
Posted Aug 17, 2015, 8:58 PM by Posts Editor
HRVista WeatherFranklin is blessed with its own weather station, run by Tony Dow (see http://hrvistaweather.com) That’s where the summary weather report on the LBT home page comes from. If you click on this summary you get taken to the huge amount of very well organised information that Tony provides. He is currently updating this site to streamline it. See the new version at http://hrvistaweather.com/weather/ and get back to Tony at http://hrvistaweather.com/wxcontact.php if you have any comments. Tony writes:‘Also like to know if any pages are not used or rather which pages on the current site people would like migrated across to the new site. Also the mobile site will not …
Posted Aug 17, 2015, 2:31 PM by Posts Editor
Reminder: Social Night, Saturday August 29thThe LBT Annual General Meeting (starts 6pm) will be followed by a social and quiz night at the Franklin Bowls Club. Bar opens 6.45pm and all welcome, $5 members, $10 non members. Soup and bread will be available for $5 a serve. Members are asked to bring a plate that can be shared.Book a table for your group using the form below, or use the sign on sheet in the shed. Pic Ishmael Orendian
Posted Aug 16, 2015, 5:17 AM by Posts Editor
Tool DonationGraham Rankin writes: ‘Liz Marshall and her husband Gordon have very kindly donated two boxes of hand tools to the Trust. The tools belonged to Gordon’s father, a carpenter, and judging by the quality and the way they have been maintained, he took a lot of pride in his work and his tools. Thank you Gordon and Liz, we really appreciate your generosity and promise to look after them (DON’T WE boys and girls!)’
Posted Aug 14, 2015, 10:10 PM by Posts Editor
Now is the time …… for all good people to come to the aid of the LBT, by nominating for the committee! Get your nomination form at https://goo.gl/HoOZpP. The election will be held at the AGM, August 29th.
Posted Aug 13, 2015, 5:14 AM by Posts Editor
Facebook page for ‘Nancy’Annette Cauchi has been busy organising the marketing for ‘Nancy’ and one of the things she has done is set up a Facebook page. If you haven’t found it yet see https://www.facebook.com/mvnancycruise . We ‘applaud’ and ‘admire’ it, but are told by Facebook people that the thing to do is to ‘like‘ it. What an anodyne compliment.
Posted Aug 13, 2015, 12:10 AM by Posts Editor
‘Tuna’ for saleBoat specifications: 22′ 6″ Huon Pine, Australian Cedar, sedan cruiser, built in 1915 by Percival Geo Coventry at Battery Point, 14 h.p. Nanni/Kubota diesel motor, includes mooring (at Copper Alley bay), dinghy etc, Price is $11,000, phone 0417 324 476 (ask for Andrew). Pics from Andrew McRae Pic from Libor Sikora
Posted Aug 12, 2015, 11:11 PM by Posts Editor
Dinghy Building CoursesRoss James (from the Wooden Boat Centre) writes:‘If learning how to build a traditional clinker timber dinghy using the finest boat-building timbers is your dream, then time is running out to learn these skill in 2015.Courses start on 24th of August, and 19th of October, limited vacancies still available. You will work alongside a boat-builder with no more than 4 other students and produce a dinghy just like the one shown. … You will learn all the skills necessary to build a traditional boat using these methods from lofting to launch. The course lasts seven weeks. We can provide referrals to a range of affordable accommodation options within easy reach of our facility. Please call Ross on …
Posted Aug 12, 2015, 3:38 PM by Posts Editor
Billie’s oars get a nip and tuckGraham Rankin writes: ‘On the day of Billie’s launch we discovered we had made the oars a little too fat for some of our rowers with more “delicate” hands, well, more precisely we copped a hammering from some of the ladies that the oars were too heavy! Rectification work began today with paring down the hand grips, thanks to the efforts of Mick and Liz. A couple of clear coats were applied , with a couple more tomorrow, so the oars will be ready in time for Friday’s row to Petchey’s Bay. The back of the blades will be pared down in the next few weeks, as rowing permits.’
Posted Aug 12, 2015, 5:07 AM by Posts Editor
Notice of Annual General MeetingThe Living Boat Trust AGM will be held at 6pm, Saturday August 29th, at the Franklin Bowls Club, 3395 Huon Hwy, opposite the Palais Theatre. It will be followed by a social night starting at 7pm (more details to follow). Relevant documents can be found on the website (Resources => 2015 AGM Documents, shortcut https://goo.gl/W38bbk), including a committee nomination form, agenda and minutes from last year’s meeting. A financial statement will be put there shortly.
Posted Aug 9, 2015, 3:41 PM by Posts Editor
Moving the officeThey say beauty is in eye of the beholder, and certainly those of us who helped move the office on Saturday morning would concur that for that period at least we appreciated the grace in the lines of Richard Page’s crane truck more than we would have those of a Ferrari. Richard did a great job: the south side of the shed is now basically clear, and we can get on with the plumbing, footings and slab for the new extension.
Posted Aug 9, 2015, 5:45 PM by Posts Editor
‘Billie’ gets her nameGraham Rankin writes: ‘No more need for visitors to ask! John Maley, a sign writer from Westbury and good friend of Willis Smith (one of our skiff builders) had offered to paint the name on our new skiff ‘Billie’. True to his word, he and Willis turned up on Friday afternoon and an hour or so later the job was finished and it looks great. Thank you so much, John.’
Posted Aug 7, 2015, 4:11 PM by Posts Editor
Pete’s shedAndrew Wilson (‘Old Sea Dogs of Tasmania’) has been doing a photo shoot in Franklin. We particularly liked this pic of Peter Laidlaw in his kingdom.
Posted Aug 2, 2015, 7:09 PM by Posts Editor
Monday night dinner cancelled (3rd August)Conditions on the road aren’t the greatest, so the cooks have pulled the pin. If you were planning on coming along, get out and take snow pics instead, and we can have a photo competition next week. A couple of samples are attached below. Up at Cauchi’s and down at Braeside.
Posted Aug 4, 2015, 7:58 PM by Posts Editor
Reminder: Lorrie and Graham at the Maritime MuseumIf the snow drifts have been cleared away in time, Lorrie Harrison and Graham Rankin will be giving a lunchtime talk at Maritime Museum on St Ayles Skiffs. See the flyer for more details: https://goo.gl/4KQzrtTime: 12.00 – 1.00pm Tuesday 4 August 2015 Place: Royal Society Room, Tasmanian Museum & Art Gallery, Customs House, 19 Davey St entrance
Posted Aug 2, 2015, 5:54 PM by Posts Editor
Vale Louise CrossleyLouise, member and good friend of the Living Boat Trust, has died. She was on the ball until the end, only a couple of days ago checking that we were looking after ‘Syrah’, the boat she gave us. We have ‘Syrah’ to remember her by. See the press release from Christine Milne and Bob Brown at http://bit.ly/1OYtDdj
Posted Aug 2, 2015, 6:08 PM by Posts Editor
Gretchen gets the flipBrett Doubleday, Steve McCusker and others have been working away getting Gretchen’s hull stabilised and prepared in readiness for making it watertight. Graham Wright reports: ‘the more observant visitor will notice that Gretchen is back in the shed. A simple job really, just lifting a ton of boat onto a trailer half the size needed for the purpose and getting it through the narrow doorway into the back of the workshop. But just to make things interesting Brett asked if we could turn it upside down and again many hands make light work and with some rope, a ladder, a block and tackle and advice from Martin over she went in the right place with no damage. Another example …
Posted Jul 31, 2015, 5:23 AM by Posts Editor
Preparations for the new workshop buildWhen you see a chap leaning on a shovel you know that things are definitely on the move. Graham Wright reports:‘Tuesday started early for some with the plumber arriving at 8:30 to check on the site. Allan offered to excavate inside and outside to locate the existing plumbing. We had to clear an area 2400 mm from the existing toilet to make room for the equal access toilet which unfortunately is a very cluttered area. To make room we had to empty the large grey shelf unit and move it to behind the blue lockers. Then we moved the lathe and the workbench after clearing away all the gear on and under it and finally cut a bit …
Posted Jul 31, 2015, 5:15 AM by Posts Editor
Waterfront websiteSonia Shimeld has shaken the slumbering Franklin Working Waterfront website and woken it up – see http://www.fwwatas.org/news.html. The LBT no longer has a monopoly on riverbank news – let the gossip wars commence!
Posted Jul 28, 2015, 11:34 PM by Posts Editor
Lifejacket awarenessFor those who missed the safety equipment evening last Monday, or those who want to follow up, you can read what Peter Hopkins of MAST has to say in an article for the August edition of ‘Afloat’ magazine at http://goo.gl/9JkqPz
Posted Jul 28, 2015, 3:35 AM by Posts Editor
‘Billie’ in Afloat magazineJonathan Wallis has written a nice article about the launch of ‘Billie’ for this month’s edition of ‘Afloat’. See page 67, or view it online at http://goo.gl/uvYKRx
Posted Jul 28, 2015, 3:36 AM by Posts Editor
Support from the LBT networkReaders of this column may remember that Paul Oakley recently wrote asking for advice about restoring a dinghy. He has had several responses. He writes: ‘Bernard, thank you so much for your kind offer of assistance … Next week I have Adrian Dean meeting Dad and I at the boat shed for an initial look at the dinghy and then to discuss a way forward. We are hoping that the work is within our capabilities and will listen to what Adrian has to tell us. Here’s hoping all goes well. Should for some reason the plans with Adrian fall through, I will be certain to come and chase you guys up! Thanks again, the response I have had from contacting …
Posted Jul 26, 2015, 3:46 PM by Posts Editor
St Ayles Skiffs go westFrom Jane Johnson: ‘Western Australia is embracing the St Ayles Skiff movementwith the commencement of two skiff builds at the Royal Freshwater Bay YachtClub. During my visit last week I found – A picture-perfect Swan River setting that will be wonderful for rowing adventures A male group of “around 15” Yacht Club members enthusiastically getting stuck into the building three times per week. Each kit had been cut out and prepared for assembly, with the first skiff well on its way. The building frame was in position, as well as the internal frame with hog, stems and ribs prepared, the latter made out of mahogany.’ Jane’s complete report is attached: https://goo.gl/wZp7nb . Judging from the …
Posted Jul 25, 2015, 11:55 PM by Posts Editor
Activities in the WorkshopFrom Graham Wright: ‘It’s getting busy in the workshop especially as the extension work is beginning. The Tuesday and Skiff groups are going to work together on maintenance but on their respective days. This has a bonus as the workshop will continue to be open to the public a least four days a week. Between us we have 1 Grebe to finish and 3 more to do an annual maintenance, Rowan to be done in the middle of August and of course the weekly checks and maintenance on Nancy. That is no challenge at all to the workshop crews so lets build an enclosed extension with two extra toilets! The plumber is due any day now to measure up …
Posted Jul 25, 2015, 11:37 PM by Posts Editor
Flare and safety equipment night: reportGlynn Shevels (commander: Volunteer Marine Rescue Kingborough) writes: ‘The visit by MAST and Franklin fire service to LBT on the evening of 20/7/2015 was a great success. About 30 people attended. A talk about safety on the water, life jackets , flares and the role of MAST was very informative with lots of questions about life jackets, how they perform, servicing them and correct fitting. A very informative display of safety gear from Franklin Marine was well received by all who attended. A question was asked about life jackets and small row boats/sail boats and the answer was they are now compulsory and must be worn at all times on the water. After the talk in the …
Posted Jul 26, 2015, 12:39 AM by Posts Editor
Maritime Museum Monthly Talk – 4 August 2015John Wadsley (from TMAG) writes:‘Please find attached the flyer ( https://goo.gl/4KQzrt) for the next presentation in the Maritime Museum of Tasmania’s series of monthly talks, to be held at 12 noon on , Tuesday 4th August 2015. This time we have Lorrie Harrison and Graham Rankin talking on their work at Franklin with constructing and racing the St Ayles Skiff. Sounds fascinating. As always, the presentation is at the Royal Society Room, TMAG Customs House Building, Davey Street entrance.’
Posted Jul 21, 2015, 4:37 PM by Posts Editor
St Ayles Skiff Regatta at WarrnamboolPatrick Groot writes:‘With our soon to be launched skiff at Warrnambool and the presence of ‘Cariad’ and ‘John Liddy’ we are excited to announce that the Warrnambool St Ayles Skiff Community Ropwing Club will be hosting our first regatta at Warrnambool on the Hopkins River. Please see the attached flyer for this regatta (http://bit.ly/1fV0rbA). I will forward a program/flyer of the day in the lead up. I will also forward a flyer for the Portland Upwelling whaleboat comp (Saturday 31/10) as soon as one comes to hand. I should also have a flyer soon that promotes the 2nd Small Wooden Boat Expo (Sunday 1/11) which will have the official launch of skiff 1 …
Posted Jul 19, 2015, 3:27 AM by Posts Editor
Membership renewalsThanks to the many members who have already responded to the request to renew their membership of the LBT. You should have received an emailed acknowledgement. If you did not please send a note to the secretary at sec@lbt.org.au so that we can sort you out. Reminder notices will be sent out shortly to those of us who have yet to pony up.
Posted Jul 19, 2015, 12:47 AM by Posts Editor
Reminder: Flares and safety equipment demonstration Monday 20th JulyThis coming Monday there will be NO DINNER at the LBT. Instead there will be a BBQ, AND hands on flares and safety equipment demonstration with MAST, the Franklin Fire Brigade and Franklin Marine. Starting at 5.30pm, at the LBT shed, 3337 Huon Hwy, Franklin; 5.30pm: Talk on safety on water (new life jacket designs, etc); 6.00pm: Safety on water the water display; Flare demo; Fire blanket demo; Fire extinguisher demo; 7.00pm: BBQ and/or other food will be available from the Living Boat Trust (gold coin donation); bonfire; 8.00pm: Finish.
Posted Jul 16, 2015, 4:39 PM by Posts Editor
‘New’ pontoons for the LBTThe LBT has acquired the eleven metre pontoons that were formerly used by the Huon Yacht Club. We have been assured that they are in good condition and that they will be suitable for our location on the river. Just where we put them is the next question. There is an old plan to have a pontoon between the marina and the evaporator sheds, and now might be the time to revive it. See pics below.
Posted Jul 15, 2015, 6:17 PM by Posts Editor
Boat transport alternativesRemind us: why did we need to buy those trailers? Pic from http://turtleislands.net/tmc/ , spotted by David Budd.
Posted Jul 16, 2015, 4:44 PM by Posts Editor
Plans for verandah extension approvedThanks to the indefatigable Guy Greener we finally have approved plans for the verandah extension (the ‘Guy Greener Wing’) on the south side of the existing shed. These plans can be viewed at https://goo.gl/OhD4XB . Now all we have to do is build.
Posted Jul 15, 2015, 5:19 PM by Posts Editor
Matt and Gill’s sailing adventuresSee and hear about Matt and Gill’s sailing adventures (with Jesse) from Australia to Alaska. $10 for a curry dinner if you are a member, $15 if you are not a member. Where: at the Port Esperance Sailing Club, Station Road, Dover. When: 24th July, 6pm. (For those who don’t know them, Matt, Gill, Jesse and now Dete are active members of the LBT)
Posted Jul 14, 2015, 4:40 PM by Posts Editor
Invitation to Dover Community workshopRon Wells (of ‘La Chaloupe‘ fame) writes: ‘The Dover Community Workshop would like to invite you to our Official Opening of the Hot Works Extension. The Premier Will Hodgman will be open the new extension at 10am on the 28th of August. Please R.S.V.P. with numbers and who will be attending to assist us with catering on the day. Email dovercomworkshop@bigpond.com or phone 0488227346’ Official invitation is attached: https://goo.gl/833YTv
Posted Jul 14, 2015, 4:41 PM by Posts Editor
Can somebody help Paul?Paul Oakley writes: ‘I have a pine clinker dinghy that I am keen to restore along with my dad. I am a tradie, so ok with tools but more so metal. The boat is currently located within my Cornelian Bay boat shed where I wish to carry out the work. Ros mentioned that you might be able to put me in touch with the workshop people? I was hoping to come to some arrangement where someone can drop by and put me on the right track periodically. Of course I would be happy to pay for their time! Can you help me out with this?’ Up to the challenge? contact the secretary at sec@lbt.org.au to be put …
Posted Jul 12, 2015, 2:53 AM by Posts Editor
LBT Committee Strategy MeetingA big thank you to all those who posted in ideas for this session, which was held last Sunday. These ideas formed a large part of the input to this meeting, which was an opportunity to take a big picture view of the Trust’s activities, and they will be kept for future reference. The minutes of this meeting can be viewed at https://goo.gl/wOUXzp
Posted Jul 11, 2015, 6:32 PM by Posts Editor
Ideas for post AGM social nightThe LBT is planning a social night to follow the Annual General Meeting (29th August). Traditionally this has revolved around a quiz session. It could be the same this year but maybe some of you have better ideas. If so please post them in, using the form below (https://goo.gl/1wZv78).
Posted Jul 11, 2015, 6:20 PM by Posts Editor
Yearly accountsThe LBT has (and loves) its showboats, people like Peter Laidlaw, out there leading the fleet, giving speeches, playing his pipes etc, etc. Then there are those paddling away in the background, like Jackie Garnsey who has just produced the yearly accounts: see https://goo.gl/T60y2A. Good onya Jackie, and thank you.
Posted Jul 11, 2015, 9:01 PM by Posts Editor
Christmas in August at Spring BayOur friends at Spring Bay have issued an invitation to a ‘Christmas Luncheon’ on August 3rd at the Village Barn, Triabunna – see attached at: https://goo.gl/UdTWTv . See also their latest newsletter: https://goo.gl/Dd15Yl
Posted Jul 10, 2015, 8:30 PM by Posts Editor
Mystic SeaportMichael O’Neill from Mystic Seaport writes: ‘I help operate a blog for Mystic Seaport, http://mysticseaport.org/stories and after seeing your site, (http://lbt.rforster.org), I thought you might be interested in our newest video, “A Simple Route to a Stunning Retreat: Docking at Mystic Seaport”. Docking at Mystic Seaport opens up a whole new experience for visitors, from journeying up the gorgeous Mystic River to arriving at the stunning Seaport. Here is a link to the video: http://stories.mysticseaport.org/docking-at-mystic-seaport/ Each week we have new content available, from videos, to social pieces, to blog posts. If you would like to receive an email update when a new video is posted, please …
Posted Jul 12, 2015, 3:42 PM by Posts Editor
Time to put ‘Swiftsure’ to work?NOTICE TO MARINERS Title: Navigation Hazard – Spring Bay Triabunna; Valid From: 8/7/2015; Valid Until: 15/7/2015. Mariners are advised a large whale has been sighted in the navigation channel at Spring Bay, Triabunna just off the Deepwater Jetty. Mariners should navigate with caution. Image from wikimedia commons The LBT whaleboat, Swiftsure
Posted Jul 7, 2015, 11:40 PM by Posts Editor
Township theme projectSimone Watson, General Manager for Huon Council writes: ‘Council is seeking participation by a member of your community group/business in a workshop which aims to establish a theme for your town. These themes will be used to frame planning, urban design and landscaping in unique ways to create great places and spaces for the community.’ See the flyer below for information about a workshop to discuss this on Thursday 30 July.Looking at this flyer, maybe they are hoping we can come up with a theme that is better than a strip of bitumen and some power poles.For more information see http://bit.ly/1HMJSJ8
Posted Jul 7, 2015, 9:34 PM by Posts Editor
Call for nominations for the LBT CommitteeOne of the major tasks for the AGM to be held on August the 29th is to elect a committee for 2015-16. Nomination forms have been printed and can be collected from the LBT shed. Alternatively download and print one from http://tinyurl.com/m6fuwhmBoth nominators and nominatees need to be financial members, so get that sorted out first (or at the same time) if it is an issue. For details about membership payments see http://tinyurl.com/mr52v7zWe (on the current committee) strongly encourage every member to consider nominating. All committees needs a periodic infusion of new ideas, new expertise and new enthusiasm. The Trust is in a stable financial position, the membership is actively and …
Posted Jul 7, 2015, 9:16 PM by Posts Editor
Reminder: Flares and Safety Equipment Night 20th JulyThis event will now run on Monday nightJuly 20th starting at 5.30pm, at the LBT shed, 3337 Huon Hwy, Franklin: 5.30pm Talk on safety on water including life jackets. 6.00pmFranklin Marine display about safety on water; Flare demo; Fire blanket demo; Fire extinguisher demo. 7.00pm BBQ and/or other food will be available from the Living Boat Trust (gold coin donation)Bonfire.8.00pmFinishThe Fire Brigade will also be attending and demonstrating.
Posted Jul 7, 2015, 12:33 AM by Posts Editor
July newsletter from the Wooden Boat CentreSonia Shimeld has sent us this latest edition (attached at http://bit.ly/1G2Ew6X), with items about dinghy classes, Leshelen, a new steam launch (which will actually be fitted with a Nancy style Frisco motor), another Viking in need of rescue, the completion of Z-Lectra, the 230hp electric speedboat and more.
Posted Jul 6, 2015, 4:10 AM by Posts Editor
2016 Kiwi Raid and Regatta updateNew Zealand Coastal Rowing report: ‘There’s been a lot of rowing into the wind to get to this update. Our crew have been very busy getting our ducks in a row and mostly haggling with bureaucrats and red tape, however its actually coming together…yay!’ For all the details head over to their blog: http://nzcoastalrowing.org/ To our mind the scenery in the picture which accompanies the item (see below) looks less like that of the land of the long white cloud, than that of the land of the long flat vowel.
Posted Jul 6, 2015, 4:13 AM by Posts Editor
Help rescue a whaleboat John Young writes: ‘The Whale boat restoration is about to begin on Monday 6th July. Thanks to all of you who worked to get a house sit for Cody Horgan, the ex Franklin boatbuilder who is taking unpaid leave for a month from his job at the National Maritime Museum to teach the girls from Colony 47 how to restore her. Cody’s wife and family are flying down on Wednesday. It is a big job and we want to get as much done as possible so volunteer support would be very valuable, as would the feeling of community support for the girls. If you can make it at 9.00am on Monday morning, even if for only a short …
Posted Jul 2, 2015, 3:08 AM by Posts Editor
Boat nip, tuck and facelift timeThe short and cold days have left the dinghies idling in the shed, so time to get them out and freshen ’em up a bit. The Tuesday group have selected Rhonda K and Rowan as the first candidates.
Posted Jul 1, 2015, 8:30 PM by Posts Editor
Film screening – ‘Utopia’Zainab Clark writes: ‘Amnesty Southern Group will screen John Pilger’s “UTOPIA” on Friday 10th. July at 6.30 pm in the Cygnet Town Hall Supper Room; see poster attached (https://goo.gl/zutJ8f). This powerful documentary will be shown as an introduction to Amnesty’s new campaign “COMMUNITY IS EVERYTHING” which aims at preventing indigenous children from becoming caught in the judicial system, by providing support and reinforcing their families and communities. Rodney Dillon will be our guest speaker. He will answer questions and discuss positive indigenous led initiatives that have shown themselves to be effective. We hope you can join us for the evening.’
Posted Jul 4, 2015, 5:44 AM by Posts Editor
How to build a boat – by Mickey MouseRos Barnett pointed out this instructional video (http://bit.ly/1LUqSaU)
Posted Jul 1, 2015, 3:55 AM by Posts Editor
Lunchtime talk – the DuyfkenJohn Wadsley, of the Maritime Museum, writes: ‘Now that Dark Mofo is over you all need some more stimulation, so come along to the next monthly talk. This free talk is on the story of the Duyfken, presented by Master Mariner Gary Wilson. The flyer is attached with all the details (see https://goo.gl/SIV8sV).‘ Time: 12.00 – 1.00pm Tuesday 7 July 2015; Place: Royal Society Room, Tasmanian Museum & Art Gallery, Customs House, 19 Davey St entrance; Phone the Maritime Museum on 62341427 for more details. Picture Australian Broadcasting Commission
Posted Jul 1, 2015, 3:28 AM by Posts Editor
LBT in the news (again)We seem to be in the mainstream media so frequently that this column may become redundant. Nell Tyson has a nice piece in the latest 40 Degrees South – Tasmania’s premier quality coffee table magazine. Nell’s beautiful pictures are shown off to advantage. The well known yachting journalist Bruce Stannard has a long story on St Ayles Skiffs in ‘Afloat’ magazine with some nice coverage of the Skiff Regatta and WOW. This is a big deal: ‘Afloat’ has a circulation of tens of thousands throughout Australia. Get your copy at your local chandlers or other boating business, or view the article online at http://goo.gl/vsN3vy . From the sublime to the parochial: the Huon News has articles about …
Posted Jul 1, 2015, 3:31 AM by Posts Editor
South Bruny Island – Vessel DebrisNOTICE TO MARINERS Valid From: 29 June 2015. Valid Until: 17 July 2015. Notice Content: Mariners are advised that an 8.5 metre vessel has broken up in the South Bruny Island vicinity after going ashore. Mariners should keep a look out for debris.
Posted Jun 29, 2015, 3:13 PM by Posts Editor
Warrnambool Skiff Launch, 1st NovemberPatrick Groot writes: ‘Our first official skiff launch will be on Sunday 1st of November as part of Flagstaff Hill’s wooden boat expo which itself will be part of a broader Warrnambool wide music festival that Flagstaff Hill will be participating in. Like our 2014 Small Wooden Boat Expo the St Ayles Skiff will be front and centre and accompanied by many other wooden boats from the South West. Saturday the 31st of October (day before our event) will see Portland’s Upwelling Festival and their whaleboat comp which the Stroke Team have participated in for the last 2 years. It may even be possible to stage a St Ayles Skiff regatta on the Monday (2nd Nov) on the …
Posted Jun 28, 2015, 7:13 PM by Posts Editor
Timber DonationWhen David Whelan of Glen Huon decided to clean out his late grandfather’s tool shed he had an inspiration: why not donate the wood to the Living Boat Trust? That is the sort of inspiration we like, and Peter Laidlaw’s ute was duly loaded up with lots of lovely myrtle, jarrah, and odds and sods of Huon and King Billy. Thanks David: much appreciated!
Posted Jun 28, 2015, 5:19 PM by Posts Editor
‘Billie’ in the newsThe Sunday Mercury (28th June) gave her quite a splash.
Posted Jun 28, 2015, 5:54 AM by Posts Editor
More on the Skiffieworlds, Northern Ireland 2016Lorrie Harrison has passed on more information about these championships, which are to be held July 25-30 2016 on Strangford Lough, County Down (website: http://bit.ly/1JGcsxr) . Attached is a letter from one of the organisers (http://bit.ly/1LtO95I), a pamphlet (http://bit.ly/1LtNeSR) describing the Skiff scene on this coast, where they have built 9 boats, and a course diagram (http://bit.ly/1LtOvt4).
Posted Jun 25, 2015, 10:01 PM by Posts Editor
Members at large report: Hans and Nell in EnglandHans writes:‘Our little Jemima on Regents Canal about to go through the Islington Canal this morning. It’s nearly 1 km long. Bit scary. Glad the big day last Saturday went well.‘For those who don’t know, Hans and Nell are cruising the waterways in a small trailer/sailer they have bought for the purpose. You can keep up with their adventures through their Facebook pages: https://www.facebook.com/hans.sipsma and https://www.facebook.com/nell.tyson.3
Posted Jun 26, 2015, 6:39 PM by Posts Editor
Flaw in Skiff design revealedIt lacks a webmaster’s seat. Pic of improved design from Hans and Nell in London.
Posted Jun 26, 2015, 4:19 PM by Posts Editor
Gold Star to Lorrie Harrison!She was the first person to renew her membership for 2015-2016, AND she also took advantage of being able to pay for her rowing annually, which is quite a saving. It was a close run thing: there were at least a dozen people who renewed on the first day they received their notices. When you are making a payment remember to include some identification which will be meaningful to us. There is a mysterious BCU who has renewed (thank you), but we aren’t sure who you are. (pic from wikimedia)
Posted Jun 24, 2015, 6:23 AM by Posts Editor
Concert for NepalMarcia Waller writes:‘Please have a look at the attached poster (http://bit.ly/1Ji3W7X ) for a Concert for Nepal to be held at the Huonville Town Hall on 12th July. Tickets are only $20 each, and all funds will go directly to rebuilding projects in the Rasuwa District in Nepal. I hope you or your friends and family can come.’
Posted Jun 23, 2015, 11:44 PM by Posts Editor
Great Taylors Bay – Mooring Works and Fill Station Notice to Mariners Valid From: 24 June 2015 Until: 1 December 2015 Mariners are advised Tassal will be undertaking mooring work on their leases in Great Taylors Bay. The lease is being re-configured and mooring works will necessitate the zone being marked by lit yellow marks at the co-ordinates shown below. In addition to these corner marks, lit special marks will also be placed on the boundaries between the corner marks. These works will be completed in December when another notice will be issued to advise the lease markings. 147°08.608’E 43°22.533’S; 147°09.476’E 43°23.129’S; 147°07.992’E 43°24.184’S; 147°07.159’E 43 …
Posted Jun 23, 2015, 10:57 PM by Posts Editor
Planning for the future at the LBTThe committee will be holding a strategy meeting in early July to consider how well the Trust is meeting its aims and objectives and the needs of members. A key reference document is the constitution (http://bit.ly/1N4bpFw) which has the following section. 4. OBJECTS AND PURPOSES OF THE ASSOCIATION: 4.1 The basic Objects of the Association are: 4.1.1 To preserve Tasmania’s maritime heritage through the documentation, interpretation and restoration of historic vessels, the building of replica and and reproduction vessels and the functional use of historic craft. 4.1.2 To promote Tasmania’s maritime heritage by the provision of related educational and recreational opportunities to people of all ages, interests and abilities, and …
Posted Jun 28, 2015, 6:52 AM by Posts Editor
Get your ‘Amateur Boatbuilder’The St Ayles Skiff Regatta has the front cover and much of the content in the upcoming edition. There are major articles from Rob Ayliffe (maker of St Ayles Skiff kits in Australia) on his experiences bringing the Iranian asylum seekers to Tasmania and the Regatta, and from Jonathan Wallis about the Regatta itself.
Posted Jun 23, 2015, 5:41 AM by Posts Editor
New Boat TrailersA recent acquisition for the Trust is a pair of boat trailers, which went on public display for the first time on Saturday. They will be particularly suitable for transporting the Skiffs. A grant of $4000 from the Huon Valley Financial Services Ltd and its franchisees the Bendigo Community Bank branches was a huge boost for this purchase, and we send them a big thank you.
Posted Jun 23, 2015, 5:24 AM by Posts Editor
Dave’s crewDave Golding’s ‘secret weapon’ for the Roger Harwood trophy race was his special crew. By the look of ’em they didn’t share Dave’s enthusiasm, and he finished back in the pack.
Posted Jun 21, 2015, 5:21 AM by Posts Editor
The Secret PassageJane Johnson writes: ‘At the Living Boat Trust in Franklin there is a great map that details the depth of water in the Huon River, particularly around North and South Egg Island. Rowing groups in the St Ayles Skiff “Imagine” frequently enjoy completing the 45-minute circuit that traverses tidal Egg Island Canal through to Cradoc and then homeward-bound via the Eldercare Channel. Last Sunday a new adventure unfolded with an aim to find the secret passage through South Egg Island in “Imagine”. This circuit takes about 90mins, goes via the Egg Island Canal, south to Wattle Grove and then through the curly, shallow passage that winds its way into the heart of the island, exiting just north of …
Posted Jun 21, 2015, 4:23 PM by Posts Editor
Launching Billie (‘Dark BOFO’)Saturday the 20th June began with a congregation of well wishers gathered to see the new St Ayles Skiff named and launched, and ended late that evening with jiving at the Wooden Boat Centre to tunes from a Rolling Stones Greatest Hits record (‘High Tide and Green Grass’) that had miraculously survived the depredations of the decades. In between were highlights almost too numerous to mention: * a Gaelic hymn to bless the boat from the choir led by Tiffany Eckhardt, which brought a tear to many an eye; * John Young’s canine history of Franklin, leading to the new boat being named ‘Billie’ in memory of the late lamented doggie mascot of the LBT; * Peter Laidlaw piping ‘Billie’ into the …
Posted Jun 22, 2015, 12:32 AM by Posts Editor
Crews wanted for SaturdayNancy and Rowan will be out on the water for Dark BOFO, for excursion and safety boat duties respectively. For those of us who have been doing various crewing courses, here is an opportunity to practice our skills – and get on the water for a different view of events. Many hands make light work (see attached pic), and give everybody the opportunity to swap around and be involved in the other activities of the day. Sign up using the forms below, for Rowan (http://bit.ly/1FllOam ) and Nancy (http://bit.ly/1FlkUud).
Posted Jun 16, 2015, 5:12 PM by Posts Editor
From Recherche Bay to Pumicestone PassageLBT member David Hoffman writes: “Warm greetings from Queensland. Three times Tawe Nunnugah raid boat G.I. Go goes again, this time in Pumicestone Passage north of Brisbane, in the recent Bribie Island Yacht Club Classic Regatta. The resting for’ard hand is Derry Hoffman. The Glasshouse Mountains are in the background. The sailing weather and waters are delightful.”
Posted Jun 16, 2015, 4:28 AM by Posts Editor
Flares and Safety Equipment NightThis rescheduled event will now run on Monday nightJuly 20th starting at 5.30pm, at the LBT shed, 3337 Huon Hwy, Franklin: Safety talk 5.30pm till 6.00pm; Fire blanket and flare demo 6.00pm till 7.00pm; BBQ and/or other food will be available from the Living Boat Trust. The Fire Brigade will also be attending and demonstrating.
Posted Jun 15, 2015, 10:06 PM by Posts Editor
Special BOFO event: whaleboat liftingA weekend working bee saw the container outside the Wooden Boat Centre painted, fitted out with racks, and loaded with all the planking previously stored in the side shed. This was all in preparation for beginning work on the Montagu whaler, which needs to be moved into that side shed. Saturday the 20th could be a good day for making the move, with lots of hands on hand. Of course this sort of task needs to be done to the accompaniment of a merry tune: Maybe ‘The lament of the Montagu Whaler‘ will do it: http://bit.ly/1aGcxlB
Posted Jun 13, 2015, 9:43 PM by Posts Editor
Dark BOFO: the rowing challengeBarb Dawson writes: ‘Cygnet have just let me know that they are likely to attend with the following teams: 2 x mens; 2 x mixed; 2 x females. Great news but puts pressure on us!!!’ Come on Franklin (and Dover and Castle Forbes): we need some Skiff teams. We are sure that some will emerge from WOW, but the fellas need to get organised too. First opportunity to do this will be Monday evening: sign up sheets will by put up in the shed. There will be plenty of boats to go around as we are expecting ‘Chiton’ from Taroona to show up.All of this will be a very good warm up for the Roger Harwood Trophy being run …
Posted Jun 13, 2015, 8:20 PM by Posts Editor
LBT membership renewalsLBT memberships lapse at the end of June and renewal notices will be sent out shortly. Payment details will be included in these notices: they remain the same as for previous years except for one extra item. It has been decided by the committee (at the request of WOW) that members may pay for rowing annually, and that the amount which will be charged will be $100. This is as an alternative to the current $5 per week (or per row) charge: some may still prefer to do it this way. An extra reminder about rowing fees will be sent out this year whilst this transition is occurring.Of course if you AREN’T a member now is a good …
Posted Jun 10, 2015, 9:48 PM by Posts Editor
Bendigo Skiff rowlocks in placeThe Bendigo Skiff was flipped on Monday night, allowing finishing touches to be applied to the topsides. That included installing the ‘mystery’ rowlocks. The ‘mystery’ question is, will they work? Rule 3 for the St Ayles Skiff design states ‘Oarlock fittings are to be made oftimber suitable for its purpose’, leaving a very wide scope for experimentation. ‘Imagine’ has cabes, ‘Swan’ has pegs, and now we have this new design. See http://bit.ly/1B7wz4D for the last report on progress on this boat.
Posted Jun 10, 2015, 5:40 PM by Posts Editor
The World St Ayles Skiff Regatta, 25-30th July 2016Lorrie Harrison writes: ‘For all those people who are sorry they didn’t make it to Ullapool in 2013, you now have the opportunity of going to Stangford-Lough, which is East of Belfast. If you are interested in going and being part of a crew could you email me (Lorrie w.lharrison@bigpond.com) to let me know. I think a meeting of interested people to form crews could be held in the near future.’ See http://bit.ly/1JGcsxr for all the details
Posted Jun 10, 2015, 9:48 PM by Posts Editor
Vale BillieBillie Laidlaw departed for the great kennel in the sky last Friday. She has been a part of the Living Boat Trust almost since it’s inception, fulfilling a particular role as figurehead on Swiftsure – Swiftsure will seem naked without her. She was also an important part of On the Water programs – just which group of school kids got Billie aboard their boat was a matter of very active contention. She will be missed. Photo from Johanna Enders Photo from Greg Guy
Posted Jun 17, 2015, 4:13 PM by Posts Editor
Men’s Health eventsThere are events at a series of locations over the next couple of weeks, sponsored by the Men’s Shed Association: Geeveston Men’s Shed Friday 12th June; Cygnet Men’s Shed Friday 19th June; Robert’s Rural Supplies Friday 26th June. ‘All the events are free with free food at the men’s sheds and health care providers available on the day to talk to. Please distribute to others at your convenience. If you have any questions please contact the Rural Health Unit on 6264 0300.’See flyer attached: http://bit.ly/1TaU2b1
Posted Jun 10, 2015, 5:02 AM by Posts Editor
LBT Members at large columnLong term LBT member Julie Dohehue writes: ‘Hi LBT, I am in Norway studying at the University of Tromso. Have followed LBT news of this years Tawe Nunnugah and felt like I was also waiting with Kvardo to make the crossing. Looking forward to New Zealand! Attached are photos of the Traditional Wooden Boat Centre in Tromso, which I have just discovered.’ Nice pics from Julie below. ‘Stakken Dagen’ apparently means ‘stack day’, and we aren’t sure what those drying skins are. Postscript: Julie tells us the ‘drying skins’ are fish!
Posted Jun 10, 2015, 5:09 AM by Posts Editor
Visit from the cruising yacht clubThe boats arrived around the middle of Sunday, and after a tour of the Wooden Boat Centre and drinkies at Franklin Marine more than sixty hungry people descended on a feast prepared by Kate Hoorweg and team in the shed. For normal mortals just managing the logistics of handling such a crowd would have been enough, but Kate topped it off with Gordon Blue cooking which was greeted with acclamation. Fortunately the Cruisers brought with them Max, aged about 12, who won the kitchen hand of the night prize and whose efforts helped us get everything away and the decks cleared before pumpkin time. Thanks to all who assisted in keeping up the tradition of what has become an annually …
Posted Jun 7, 2015, 7:54 PM by Posts Editor
Bendigo Skiff ready to turnOn Friday the brass keel band was screwed into place and the last of the paint was applied to the outside of the boat. The plan is to turn her over so that the inside can be finished off on Monday. Extra good reason for coming along that night we reckon. See http://bit.ly/1cBGYdn for more pics and story.
Posted Jun 5, 2015, 4:13 PM by Posts Editor
And then there was oneLast year John Walduck visited Warrnambool Maritime Village and sent a report back about the ‘Rowitta’, a sister ship of ‘Cartela’ that was then an exhibit at this village. He presciently said that ‘She is in a terrible state of repair – I suspect she is sitting on the bottom of the pond as I doubt that she could remain afloat.’ We learnt recently that ‘Rowitta’ was broken up back in April, leaving Cartela as the only Tasmanian vessel of her type and period remaining, and we doubt she has many contemporaries left in the rest of Australia. Pics below are before and after. The story is on the ABC: http://ab.co/1Goe3aL
Posted Jun 5, 2015, 12:59 AM by Posts Editor
LBT members at large (item 2)By the look of this picture Dennis Muscovich is enjoying has time in Germany A LOT. Keep up with his travels on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/dennis.muscovich
Posted Jun 5, 2015, 12:30 AM by Posts Editor
LBT members at large (item 1)Hans Sipsma writes from England: ‘Hi guys. WARNING!!!! This is what happens when you neglect your boat! Love Hans and Nell.’ Oh dear. It is a sad picture.
Posted Jun 5, 2015, 12:32 AM by Posts Editor
Wooden Boat Centre Working BeeSonia Shimeld (secretary of the Waterfont Association) writes:‘You may have seen that we now have a container, so we can move the wood out of the machine shed to make room for the Montagu Whaler. As many of us won’t be around on the long weekend, we are running seriously out of time. A working bee at the Wooden Boat Centre is being organised for the whole weekend next weekend (Saturday 13th and Sunday 14th June).The tasks will be: Fit up the inside of the container with shelving. Shift all the timber out of the machine shop and into the container, then Erect a stock to put the whaleboat on and move the whaleboat into the machine …
Posted Jun 4, 2015, 4:09 PM by Posts Editor
Dark BOFO coming June 20thBarb Dawson has provided a poster and an acronym (oats n ranklin arfest) for our midwinter celebration. Full sized poster attached: http://bit.ly/1G7UMbn
Posted Jun 3, 2015, 11:23 PM by Posts Editor
Member of the Working Waterfront?Greg Guy writes:’There are three places available on the next dinghy course. This course is to produce an 8’6″ Clinker Pram Dinghy and will commence on Mon 15 June and run until Fri 17 July. The normal fee for this course is $2,900.00. We are offering this course at a substantial discount as an exclusive offer to members as we are always looking for ways to give something back to our membership. Please email any expressions of interest in doing this course by next Friday 5th June – the greater the level of interest the greater the discount. If you would like to learn how to build one of these beautiful boats or you know of someone …
Posted May 30, 2015, 9:56 PM by Posts Editor
Reminder: Garage Sale next SundayBarb Dawson and David Budd will be running a table for the LBT at the Palais on June 7th. If you have anything to contribute please leave it outside the front door of the shed EARLY this coming week to allow time for sorting and organising.
Posted May 30, 2015, 3:59 PM by Posts Editor
Vardo makes it to the sunshinePete Heading writes: ‘Part of the welcoming committee as Vardo entered Broken Bay north of Sydney is pictured. Lots of inlets to explore , another wooden boat haven and almost warm enough to jump in the water, so this will be my back yard for a while.’
Posted May 30, 2015, 6:04 AM by Posts Editor
Visit from Cruising Yacht ClubKate Hoorweg writes: ‘The Cruising Yacht Club of Tasmania is coming on their annual pilgrimage to the Huon Valley over the June long weekend. They will moor in Cygnet on the Friday night, Port Huon on the Saturday, and then make their way to Franklin for the Sunday afternoon and evening. They are scheduled to take in many of the local sights, including a tour of the Wooden Boat Centre (2-4pm), wine tasting at Franklin Marine (4:45pm), and culminating in a 3-course dinner at the LBT from 6 for 6:30pm. Everyone is welcome to join the CYCT members for dining, to share stories and to enhance the local experience!! The cost for the event is $25 …
Posted May 30, 2015, 4:45 PM by Posts Editor
Fireworks at GordonNotice from MAST: ‘Mariners are advised a fireworks display will be held on Saturday, 30 May 2015 between 1830 and 1900 hours in the vicinity of Esplanade Road, Gordon.These should not be taken as signals of distress.’
Posted May 28, 2015, 5:51 PM by Posts Editor
Afghani Community visitDeb Van Velzen writes: “The Afghani Community in Hobart visited the LBT on 17th May 2015. More than 40 people arrived in a convoy of 11 cars on a frosty Sunday morning.These Tasmanians have a refugee or asylum seeker background. Many have been living in Hobart since 2009, and some are more recently arrived.”The full report is attached: see http://bit.ly/1HO4sXW
Posted May 28, 2015, 4:32 AM by Posts Editor
MHOOT in LauncestonThe Maritime Museum is attempting to revive MHOOT (‘Maritime Heritage Organisations of Tasmania’) and to this end organised a seminar at the Launceston Museum on Wednesday 27th. It was well attended and a reminder of how well endowed with boaty history we are in Tasmania. Several years ago a pamphlet was prepared for those wishing to tour this history, but it wasn’t a success and is now well out of date. The meeting decided that on the basis of the lessons learnt from that experience that we should have another go. If you have some ideas for this publication post ’em in to the secretary: sec@lbt.org.au. Ros Barnett and Richard Forster presented on behalf of the …
Posted May 29, 2015, 5:45 PM by Posts Editor
Marine Diesel Engines for BeginnersLaurence Burgin from Franklin Marine tells us that this one day course, which has proved very popular with LBT members, is on again: June 17th and July 26th. See franklinmarine.com.au/marine-diesel-engines-for-beginners for details and enrolment. From this page: You will learn… How a marine diesel engine really works; Bleeding your fuel system and changing fuel and oil filters; How to change the impeller in your salt-water pump and cooling system checks; Prop-shafts, stern glands, propellers and engine mounts; Easy ways to identify potential engine problems (and avoid them); Monthly engine maintenance to avoid problems; Basic engine electrics – power and battery systems and how they work; Understanding exhaust systems; How to select the …
Posted May 24, 2015, 12:18 AM by Posts Editor
Roger Harwood Trophy Race: It’s OnThe Roger Harwood Trophy will be contested on Saturday June 20th as part of the midwinter festivities. If you wish to participate you will need to nominate the traditional wooden dinghy you are going to use (first come best dressed for LBT boats) and sign up using the form below, or one that will be posted in the Shed. For those who don’t know, this race is around the north end of South Egg Island, then home again through the canal. It is for single oarpeople (you can take a passenger if you like). Maxine Oates is the current holder of this trophy, and going on the experience of last year she will take some beating.
Posted May 23, 2015, 6:28 PM by Posts Editor
Building ‘Tuesday’Some time ago Steve McCusker gave us a collection of photos documenting the building of Glynn Shevels Sea Knight cabin cruiser ‘Tuesday’ (see http://bit.ly/1c96BC4). We finally got around to making a slideshow from these pictures, which can be viewed below, or from the LBT home page.
Posted May 22, 2015, 6:24 AM by Posts Editor
First Aid CourseThis accident victim was too far gone for Ea to revive him, but apart from that everything went very well in this course completed by about a dozen LBTers. Thanks to our teacher, Martin from St John’s, to Graham Rankin for organisation, and the State Government who provided funding through the Men’s Shed Association.
Posted May 22, 2015, 4:55 PM by Posts Editor
Portable power toolsGlynn Shevels writes: “Thanks to Brett Doubleday for the power tools he has donated”.
Posted May 19, 2015, 2:26 AM by Posts Editor
Flare night (25th May) postponedGlynn Shevels writes:” unfortunately we have to postpone the flare night to another date due to problems beyond our control.”
Posted May 23, 2015, 6:39 AM by Posts Editor
More news from Pete HeadingPete writes:”A welcome sight – Gabo Island in the morning light after a quiet trip across Bass Strait. As beautiful as Wineglass and Sleepy Bays are , after ten days of sheltering from gale force winds we were keen to move on . Patience was rewarded with a slow moving High pressure system which gave us an easy three day trip from Binalong Bay to Eden. We’ve joined a trickle of boats headed north which I’m told gradually turns to a stream as we move further up the coast.”
Posted May 18, 2015, 4:23 AM by Posts Editor
LBT Committee Meeting next Thursday 21stThe agenda for this meeting is currently being set (see http://bit.ly/1FoqG55). If there are any serious issues which you feel ought to be addressed please forward them to the secretary: sec@lbt.org.au . As always minutes for previous meetings can be accessed from the LBT homepage: choose ‘Resources’ from the main menu, then ‘Minutes 2014-15’.
Posted May 15, 2015, 4:36 AM by Posts Editor
New Skiffs in the west … and the eastAmerica’s Cup legend John Longley writes:‘Hi Skiffie enthusiasts, I thought you would all like to know that we are off and running with the first two St Ayles Skiff to be built in Western Australia – hopefully the first of many. We have ordered two kits and Robert is beavering away putting them together. The boats have been funded by individual members of the Royal Freshwater Bay yacht Club and will be built by interested members of all ages and both genders. We have been allocated a small shed on the premises to build the boats. It will be cosy but should be fine. The build will be overseen by Steve Ward, who built Australia II, so we are …
Posted May 16, 2015, 3:06 AM by Posts Editor
Wanted: Sandpit DinghyTony Nichols, principal of Huonville Primary School, writes: ‘Could you do me a favour and ask around to see if there are any old clinker built dinghies for sale or donation that could become permanent installations in our new Kinder playground. We are soon starting construction of a new 3 classroom kindergarten/ early learning centre with new playground. We are aiming for a Feb 2016 opening of this new centre. Obviously seaworthy characteristics are not required but reasonable overall structural integrity is important. I appreciate any assistance in our search for a boat.’ The school phone number is 62641064 We are also looking for a ‘bonfire dinghy’ to sacrifice at the midwinter festival. If anybody has one of those they …
Posted May 15, 2015, 12:05 AM by Posts Editor
Garage SaleWe have been cleaning out the loft in preparation for the garage sale at the Palais Theatre on June 7th. If you have material to donate please leave it outside the shed door next to the big thicknesser. And if you want to make a prior offer for the old yachting magazines (or anything) contact the secretary: sec@lbt.org.au
Posted May 12, 2015, 9:07 PM by Posts Editor
Midwinter celebrationPlans are afoot to launch (and name properly) the ‘Bendigo’ Skiff with all due pomp and circumstance at a midwinter celebration on Saturday June 20th, starting from 12 noon at the LBT Shed. We will run the Roger Harwood trophy race around South Egg Island, there will be food and drink and wassailing. Put it in your diary. Pic from Petritap
Posted May 28, 2015, 4:44 PM by Posts Editor
Oar making Monday nightsThose who want to learn about wooden oar making should join Endra O’May and John Walduck on Monday evenings. Last Monday was spent shaping glued ‘roughs’, trimming the shafts to remove the warps, and measuring and fairing the blades to the dimensions shown in the pic.
Posted May 12, 2015, 8:48 PM by Posts Editor
Invisible Man at the LBTThe (very) high tide flushed out the the Invisible Man to stroll about our flooded jetty on Tuesday afternoon. Fortunately he was wearing his waterproofs so we didn’t crash into him. Pic from Barb Dawson
Posted May 13, 2015, 12:10 AM by Posts Editor
Trailer grantJohn Sinnott writes: ‘The Directors of Huon Valley Financial Services Ltd (HVFSL) and its franchisees the Huon Valley Community Bank branches are pleased to advise they have approved sponsorship funding of $4000.00 (four thousand dollars) in support of the trailer construction for the Bendigo St Ayles Skiff in accordance with your recent application. I also wish to thank you for the recent supply of the quotation for the trailer construction.’ This is fantastic news: there are all sorts of opportunities for using the skiff around the state (and even interstate), and having a trailer available will make this much more feasible. A big thank you to the Bendigo Community Bank. A thank you as well to Graham Rankin who …
Posted May 12, 2015, 4:10 PM by Posts Editor
Dennis MuscovichLBT stalwart Dennis has been missing from the shed for the last couple of weeks, enjoying the trip he won(!) to Europe. He will be gone for a couple of months. For those who want to keep up with his adventures he tells us the best way is through Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/dennis.muscovich. Last report was from Aix en Provence, birthplace of Bruni d’Entrecasteaux.
Posted May 11, 2015, 4:31 PM by Posts Editor
Maritime history seminar, Launceston May 27thThe Living Boat Trust is a member of MHOoT, the Marine Heritage Organisations of Tasmania, run from the Maritime Museum. They are holding a seminar in Launceston on May 27th at which we are presenting. John Walmsley of MHOoT writes:‘The theme of the Seminar is: “All at Sea? Improving communications for maritime heritage organisations and volunteers”. This seminar is all about getting together and sharing our good (and bad) experiences with internal and external communications, with our staff, volunteers, visitors and clients. There will be much to learn and discuss, including where we see the future of MHOoT heading, so come armed with good ideas!!’If you are interested in attending see the attached flyer: http://bit.ly/1ARbF4q
Posted May 11, 2015, 5:04 AM by Posts Editor
Demonstration of safety equipment 25th MayOn the 25th May starting at 5pm MAST and the fire brigade will provide a hands on demonstration of using flares, fire extinguishers, life jackets and other safety equipment. We can vouch to all our fellow pyromaniacs that setting off old flairs is the best fun, but we will probably do it from the pontoon rather than from the water, as in the illustration.
Posted May 10, 2015, 6:19 PM by Posts Editor
Bendigo Skiff ready for turningThe final coat of paint has gone onto the inside of the hull, and she is ready to be turned so that the outside can be attended to. The combination of gleaming wood on a cream background is something to see. More pics and Graham Rankin’s report can be found on the skiff build website: http://bit.ly/1P7fnmo
Posted May 12, 2015, 9:13 PM by Posts Editor
Roger LinnellRoger Linnell, LBT life member and great supporter of the Trust, is currently recovering from a stroke. He is at the Royal in the rehabilitation unit. Dave Golding tells us that he is progressing reasonably well and is receiving visitors. On behalf of all his friends we wish him a speedy and complete recovery. Roger leads the big parade at the 2012 Huon Show in the mighty Albion
Posted May 8, 2015, 4:48 PM by Posts Editor
Grebe building kit for sale Matt Romalis writes: ‘I have for sale the following as a potential builder’s kit for a solid timber Grebe 13’ 6”. 1. full set of boat’s plans. 2. full scale lofted drawings on MDF board. 3. fabricated keel, keelson, transom and laminated stem. (Only needs rabbit cut to complete). 4. Building moulds of 25mm MDF. 5. Huon Pine slabs, 16 @ 4.200m x 300mm x 15mm. 6. Celery Top Pine ribs, gunnel’s (in and outer), rudder blade piece and floor boards. 7. King William Pine thwarts and bench seats, 200mm x 30mm – 1/3.0, 1/2.9, 1/2.7, 1/1.8m. 8. Assortment of copper nails and roves to plank the boat. 9. Assortment …
Posted May 15, 2015, 1:13 AM by Posts Editor
Vardo in Sleepy BayPete Heading writes: ‘Anchored in Sleepy Bay just north of Wineglass Bay- the weather looks lousy for another few days at least so we’re here for a while yet – a slow trip north . At this rate the sun will be returning to Tassie before we’ve even left !!’ (Pete left Franklin headed for northern NSW on around 20th April, and has been waiting for a break in the weather to get across Bass Straight ever since) Pics from Pete below.
Posted May 7, 2015, 10:59 PM by Posts Editor
House sitter wants houseSonia Shimeld (secretary FWWA) writes: ‘Following on from the FWWA newsletter, the shipwright who is going to help out with the homeless girls and young women project (the one from Sydney who is looking after the Heritage Fleet and a past student at the WBC) is able to come to Franklin from July 6 – 31 with his wife and 2 primary school children. Please spread the word and contact us if you can find any house-sitting available for this family over this period.’ Contact email: info@woodenboatcentre.com
Posted May 6, 2015, 4:57 PM by Posts Editor
Wooden Boat Magazine and couta boatsLBT member Rick Gower writes: ‘Greetings to all my friends at the LBT, I thought you may be interested to know the latest edition of Wooden Boat magazine (www.woodenboat.com) has completely devoted all of its “Currents” section (pp 12-22) to an article entitled “In far Tasmania, a festive walkabout”. The LBT, Wooden Boat Centre and the Franklin Working Waterfront Association all crack a mention. It’s a good read. Been busy the last couple of weeks doing overdue maintenance with the co-owner of our couta boat. When we started it seemed like a never ending job, but I must say it was all very satisfying when we received some nice compliments about the job we had …
Posted May 6, 2015, 4:28 PM by Posts Editor
Whale Season 2015Notice to Mariners: Valid from: 6 May 2015 until 31 December 2015. ‘Migrating and calving whales are expected to be seen in Tasmanian waters between May and December 2015 inclusive. During the migration period, it is expected that whale sightings may be common, and sightings are increasing in areas of high vessel use such as the Derwent and Tamar Rivers and the D’Entrecasteaux Channel. Last year, a number of juvenile humpbacks remained in the Derwent River/Storm Bay area for several months. Mariners are advised to navigate with due care and appropriate caution around any whale activity, including adhering to an appropriate speed suitable to maintain safe navigation. Vessels should not approach whales closer than 100 m. Guidelines for …
Posted May 6, 2015, 4:11 PM by Posts Editor
Jigsaw Challenge, Friday 8th MayForm or join a table of 6 or more people. Race other teams to finish a 1000-piece puzzle. Starts 7:30pm at the Palais, Franklin. Bar & hot drinks available from 7pm. BYO supper plate. Limited tables. $5 per person. Booking is essential. See Sarah at the Franklin Post. Office (6266 3151) or call Deb (0427 554 264) or Jane (6266 3224). This is a joint Women on Water and Palais Management Committee fundraiser for community projects. See the attached flyer (http://bit.ly/1F0DA99)
Posted May 3, 2015, 10:10 PM by Posts Editor
First Aid Course 21-22 MayA First Aid Course will be taught at the shed on this date. Funding is available for some positions on this course: to apply contact Graham Rankin woodenboatfreak@gmail.com Register your interest in completing the course by calling Graham, by completing the form below (http://bit.ly/1GRSoXR), or by putting your name on the whiteboard at the shed.
Posted May 3, 2015, 2:09 AM by Posts Editor
East cardinal day mark Little Oyster Cove, KetteringNotice to Mariners: Mariners are advised that a new east cardinal day mark has been established in Little Oyster Cove, Kettering in position 43 degrees 07. 2992S, 147 degrees 15.2376E. Of course nobody needs to be reminded that you stay to the east of an ‘east cardinal day mark’.
Posted May 1, 2015, 5:18 PM by Posts Editor
New ‘steamboat’ projectPeter Laidlaw has the plans for a new 22′ steamboat to be built at the Wooden Boat Centre, although it would seem that the powerplant will actually be a vintage ‘Frisco single cylinder petrol motor, the same as in Nancy (see http://bit.ly/1DYaKzi). Nancy’s Frisco motor
Posted Apr 30, 2015, 4:57 AM by Posts Editor
Booking Nancy onlineWe are now accepting bookings online using the form at http://bit.ly/1b4FE1M, and a couple of people have taken advantage of this already. Information from this form flows to a spreadsheet for administrators, and to a calendar on the new ‘MV Nancy Tours’ website: mv-nancy-tours.org (see sample pics below). All potential customers should be directed to this website. We all know how good it is out on the river, and who are we to deny our friends? Spread the word so that they can book now and beat the rush.
Posted Apr 30, 2015, 5:14 AM by Posts Editor
Nancy crew orientationMartin Riddle has been familiarising Nancy deckhands with the features of the boat and the procedures needed to run a excursion (thanks Martin). In the pic below he shows the deckies that whilst Nancy does have a toilet, it really is a good idea to get passengers to go before they embark.
Posted Apr 30, 2015, 4:28 AM by Posts Editor
News from the Franklin Working Waterfront AssociationSonia Shimeld writes: ‘Please read the attached newsletter (http://bit.ly/1DYaKzi) for the Franklin Working Waterfront (http://www.fwwatas.org) from our President, Greg Guy. Of special note is his call for assistance this Sunday 3rd May at 10am to clear out a spot in the WBC for the Leshelen (with a BBQ lunch afterwards).’ Pics below show how good the planking still is on the more than sixty year old Leshelen, and before and after shots illustrate David Nash’s wrecking skills. Leshelen then, and now.
Posted May 1, 2015, 7:34 PM by Posts Editor
First paint goes on the Bendigo skiffIt always seems a shame when that carefully crafted woodwork on a new boat gets covered over with paint: it’s happening with the new St Ayles Skiff right now. Read all about it at http://bit.ly/1GGLeTD
Posted Apr 29, 2015, 4:15 PM by Posts Editor
Any lighthouse keepers out there?It is the centenary of the Commonwealth Lighthouse Service, and there are various celebrations and events being planned. Jack Duvoisin writes: ‘With annual reunions of past and present lighthouse staff held in Brisbane for some 25 years, planning is proceeding for the main Centenary Year celebration function to be held at the Queensland Maritime Museum on Saturday 4 July from 10 am onwards. The Australian Society of Marine Artists will be holding their annual exhibition, with the theme “Lighting the Darkness” at the Queensland Maritime Museum to be opened on 4 July as part of the Celebration day and to run until 27 September. We are trying to reach as many former lighthouse service staff and their families as possible …
Posted Apr 28, 2015, 4:37 AM by Posts Editor
LBT in the newsWe were scratching around to find somebody photogenic to put in the lineup of suspects at the recent gathering of Men’s (Community) Sheds , and fortunately Graham Rankin was on hand (right of pic below).
Posted Apr 30, 2015, 3:32 AM by Posts Editor
Nancy crew orientation This coming Thursday (30th) Martin Riddle is conducting on orientation for those who would like to crew on Nancy tours. Put your name on the whiteboard in the shed if you wish to participate.
Posted Apr 27, 2015, 5:17 PM by Posts Editor
Closure of Geeveston Forestry and Heritage Centre‘Forestry Tasmanian has provided advice to Council they do not intend to continue to operate the Forest and Heritage Centre or to occupy the building. Forestry Tasmania, the community and the Council are working together on this project to establish a pathway forward.’ This could have a serious impact on Geeveston, and a public meeting will be held to discuss options: Friday 1st May, 6pm; Geeveston Community Hall, Brady Street. See the attached flyer for details: http://bit.ly/1POjRLF
Posted Apr 27, 2015, 3:51 PM by Posts Editor
Nancy’s ministering angelsNancy disgraced herself last week, losing forward power during an excursion. To make it even better there was a large audience from the Men’s Shed Association making condescending remarks from the bank. It turned out that the pulley wheel had mysteriously come loose from the propeller shaft. This Sunday morning Brian Marriot and Martin Krynen solved the mystery and fixed the problem before the afternoon party arrived for their trip on the river in Nancy. Looking at the pic below, it would seem that if Brian’s small hammer hadn’t been up to the job a larger one was on hand.
Posted Apr 26, 2015, 5:39 AM by Posts Editor
Renewing the oar stockThe oars for our grebes have been looking decidedly shabby, but Endra and Tess have taken this issue in hand. They are fixing and releathering the old oars and making new ones from the stock of poplar that has been seasoning for the last year. We weren’t sure about the poplar when we slabbed it up, but it looks like it will be more than adequate for the job, and very light into the bargain. Thanks to Marshall Roberts who provided the trees. Slabbing the fallen poplars a year ago.
Posted Apr 26, 2015, 5:02 AM by Posts Editor
Franklin Anzac Day ServiceRichard Edwards will conduct the dawn service at the cenotaph (opposite the Palais Theatre) on Saturday morning at 6.15am.
Posted Apr 22, 2015, 11:35 PM by Posts Editor
Headed for warmer watersVardo slipped away from the Wooden Boat Centre dock at high tide today, skippered by Peter Heading and crewed by Peter’s friend Celia. They will be making their way slowly up the east coast in the hopes of catching an approaching high pressure weather system across Bass Strait next week. Final destination is Northern NSW or southern Queensland – whichever proves friendlier. We hope to see Peter again next October: apparently his stored furniture gets pitched out on the street if he hasn’t collected it by then. We’ll be contacting him for the launch of the Bendigo Skiff – Peter has been the supervising boat builder and has done a fantastic job. Pics from Graham Rankin
Posted Apr 23, 2015, 11:34 PM by Posts Editor
LBT Committee MeetingThe draft agenda for the next meeting, to be held on this coming Thursday 23rd, can be viewed at http://bit.ly/1DqDpwG . If there are extra items which should be addressed members should send them to sec@lbt.org.au
Posted Apr 20, 2015, 3:15 PM by Posts Editor
Rowing Time TrialJust after 11am on Sunday Barbara Dawson blew the horn to welcome Tinderbox as the first boat across the line for the rowing time trial. There was a very mixed fleet – see a few snaps from the event below – and we expect there will be a protest against the underweight cox in Black Swan. Barb Dawson writes: ‘Those who decided to stay snuggled up under the doona this morning, didn’t know what they were missing. Stats – 26 people, 15 boats including La Chaloupe from Dover (who successfully managed to pressgang a crew and perform amazingly well), Imagine, Tinderbox, 5 kayaks, 4 sculls from the rowing club plus miscellaneous other rowboats. Big thanks to Tony Cooper and Wendy Brown who …
Posted Apr 19, 2015, 3:13 AM by Posts Editor
Fine Dining at the LBTOn Saturday night the Huon Valley Supper Club gathered at the shed long table to sample Jilly Archer’s posh nosh. Jilly cooked up a storm (aided and abetted by Ea and the Nash boys) and all went away very satisfied indeed. Your treasurer was doubly gratified – by the food, and by a nice little addition to LBT revenues contributed by the event. Thanks to Deb Combes for organising it.
Posted Apr 18, 2015, 10:02 PM by Posts Editor
Southern Sheds get togetherIf you have to be off the water then you might as well me alongside it, and there are few better places to be than the LBT lawn on a sunny, tranquil, Tasmanian autumn morning. A group of seventy or so Tasmanian Men’s Shed Association members put this proposition to the test last Friday, and we believe that there was unanimous agreement with it. At 10.30 am sharp Mayor Peter Coad welcomed all the visitors, and after some minor speechifying they were sent off to sample some of what we have to offer. Peter Heading took groups out in Nancy, the Wooden Boat Centre conducted tours, Graeme Rankin gave talks on building a community boat, there were demonstrations …
Posted Apr 19, 2015, 2:36 AM by Posts Editor
Kiwi Raid and St Ayles Regatta 2016From the New Zealand Coastal Rowing Association:‘Totally inspired by our friends across the Tasman and now totally hooked on the small boat adventure thing we have put together what we think is going to be a pretty darn good couple of weeks here in Kiwi Land. Its early days yet and as you can imagine there is a million or so things to do and organise but we’ve made a start and drawn a line in the sand, have a plan. Here’s some dates for you to put in your calendars:Kawau Raid: Friday 29th January – Friday 5th February; St Ayles Regatta: 6th – 8th February; Tamaki Raid: 9th – 13th February.’ For all the details see http://bit …
Posted Apr 14, 2015, 9:40 PM by Posts Editor
Boat (needing love)Graeme Oddie writes:‘The vessel is the Jandarra; a Creese Brothers’ small fishing boat built around 1957. … Although it was designed as a fishing boat, a well was never installed. It was used mainly as a recreational vessel. … It needs considerable attention. I have removed lining to access, inspect and replace ribs. A sinking at Margate meant that the original Arona motor, which I have been told was inadequate for the vessel, had been removed from the vessel. The vessel is in need of re-caulkeding, particularly above the waterline. The cabin top will also need to be replaced. I have put a temporary marine ply cover on the cabin and this at least offers protection at present. … The vessel …
Posted Apr 14, 2015, 5:06 AM by Posts Editor
Newest member of the LBTOn Monday night Gill and Matt brought along Jesse’s new brother Dete. We think he chose the vegetarian option.
Posted Apr 14, 2015, 3:17 AM by Posts Editor
Last Minute Special OfferFrom Allan Witt: ‘Do you like rowing performance with safety and want to enjoy rivers, lakes and coastal waters? Witt Design has a special offer. Allan Witt has finished the design work for two light-weight car-toppable (around 20kg) variations of the well-proven Derwent Skiff. Production of the first 5 finished boats is discounted to $4,950 (Over $1,000 off the expected price). But, the offer expires this Wed 15th! If this might suit you, please contact Allan immediately on 0408 331 510 or allan@wittdesign.com.au for full details. FYI, kits will be available too with the first two going to NSW. Witt Design’s website is www.rowandsail.com.au
Posted Apr 12, 2015, 3:38 PM by Posts Editor
Reminder: visit from southern region sheds this FridayThis is an opportunity to meet people from other community (Men’s) sheds which are in many ways very similar to our own. The aims are to foster relationships, share ideas, tell our story and hear theirs. The shed association has already proved to be a useful peak group, organising some much needed funding for training. We’d encourage any members with a few spare hours to drop down to the LBT and be part of this day. We could also use a couple of helpers to run the day. The program is as follows: 10 am start; 10-10.30 am: tea, coffee, chance to look around and mingle; 10.30 am – 10.50 am: Talk and Q and …
Posted Apr 13, 2015, 2:55 PM by Posts Editor
Elements of Shipboard Safety TrainingAnnette Cauchi writes: ‘On Thursday and Friday last week a contingent from the LBT took advantage of the skills and training grant from the Tasmanian Mens Shed Association. Peter L, Graham R, Celia, Endra and Annette travelled to Hobart to attend the Elements of Shipboard Safety course run by Seafood Training Tasmania. The course was in two parts. On the first day we learned about emergencies that can and frequently do happen on boats, and what to do in different situations such as collisions, grounding, foundering, capsize, person overboard and loss of control. (Question 1: What is the international general emergency signal at sea and what should you do if you hear it?) In the afternoon we spent nearly three …
Posted Apr 12, 2015, 3:04 PM by Posts Editor
A call to oarsSwiftsure needs rowers for the time trials next Sunday (the 19th). Dennis has been busy turning up a new set of thole pins, so we are all set to go. Sign up at the shed or contact David Budd at ozskiff@gmail.com . This is also a general reminder to rowing crews to register for this event.
Posted Apr 12, 2015, 3:31 PM by Posts Editor
LeshelenMore action at the Wooden Boat Centre. For those who are regulars at the Shed it has been hard to miss Leshellen, a very large river cruiser parked beside the Wooden Boat Centre awaiting a ‘sponsor’. That sponsor has been found – a family who want her restored so that (eventually) they can take her to Queensland. In preparation David Nash has been cleaning out the trash and finding a little bit of treasure in the mix – a very nice huon pine draining board turned up under a layer of laminex. On Saturday David was able to take advantage of Hayden Abbot’s crane to remove the defunct motor.
Posted Apr 12, 2015, 6:20 AM by Posts Editor
Montagu Whaler arrivesUp until the 1960’s Montagu whalers were standard issue on navy capital ships. See for instance this training film taken off Malta in the mid 1950’s: http://bit.ly/1FyILr3. There are now very few of these boats kicking around, but one has come to the Wooden Boat Centre. It’s going to take a bit of restoration: got loose on the Mersey in a flood a few years ago, and has been sitting in a yard ever since. It could have been this very boat that ‘The lament of the Montagu Whaler’ was written for: listen to http://bit.ly/1aGcxlB (thanks to Barb Dawson for that one).
Posted Apr 12, 2015, 6:17 AM by Posts Editor
Dover are coming!Ron Wells has written to tell us he is organising a crew for La Chaloupe for the time trials on April 19th, which is reminder to the rest of us to get organised too. Get your crew on the list at the shed, or contact David Budd: ozskiff@gmail.com
Posted Apr 7, 2015, 3:38 PM by Posts Editor
Final reports on the Skiff RegattaThe organising committee recently had a windup meeting: notes can be viewed at http://bit.ly/1E1Ey2U . Jane and Shane Johnson have also submitted their reflections: see http://bit.ly/1E1EpMZ and http://bit.ly/1E1EhNs . This is an opportunity to say thank you to the committee, who did a fantastic job. The Regatta turned out to be a celebration of life on the river here in Franklin, and the sort of festival one always hopes for but seldom pulls off. Congratulations.
Posted Apr 7, 2015, 3:30 PM by Posts Editor
The view from across the TasmanThere are reports on Tawe Nunnugah, the Australian Wooden Boat Festival and the Return Raid to Franklin on the New Zealand Coastal Rowing Association website: see http://bit.ly/1E1yoQp , http://bit.ly/1HNBGpt and http://bit.ly/1HNBZ3q . Lots of great pics: see below for a couple of them.
Posted Apr 7, 2015, 2:46 PM by Posts Editor
Rowing time trials 19th AprilDON’T MISS YOUR CHANCE TO BE OARSOME!!! Handicap time trial for paddle and rowboats; Sunday 19 April, starts from 10am; A fun run on water; Race will take 1-2 hours, depending on boat (slower boats start first); Open to any rowing or paddling boats, except sliding seat rowboats; Free entry; Entry sheet now on LBT noticeboard; Bring your own boat or use one of ours; Sausage sizzle and soup afterwards; Any queries, email David Budd; ozskiff@gmail.com
Posted Apr 3, 2015, 10:42 PM by Posts Editor
If you happen to be in Queensland…Chris Tyquin writes: ‘You lot have inspired us ! We are going to hold a long table dinner in the shed that houses ”Boxer’ ( and a whole lot of other crap) here in Brisbane and would like to extend the invite to our fellow Queenslanders that were on the Raid and any of you who care to escape the Tasmanian winter are most welcome as well. Details are as follows: Date – Saturday 18th July ( I know it clashes with a Rugby Test so we will have the big screen set up somehow); Time – from 6.30pm; Venue – International Recreation , 18 Immarna St , Albion ( not far from the Breakfast Creek Hotel ); Cost – $25 a head ( Boxer fare – smoked trout on jatz to …
Posted Apr 2, 2015, 2:53 AM by Posts Editor
Launch of ‘Bendigo’ skiff getting closerGraham Rankin reports that the last of the stretchers has gone in, the rollock pins are being fitted and that the seats are ready for gluing. Read all about it on the ‘build blog’ http://bit.ly/1CNdykc.
Posted Apr 7, 2015, 1:57 PM by Posts Editor
Visit from local community sheds Friday 17th AprilThe Living Boat Trust has joined the Tasmanian Men’s Shed Association. One of the motivations for doing this was to establish useful relationships with organisations with aspirations and activities similar to our own – we can all benefit by sharing knowledge and resources. On Friday April the 17th members of local sheds will be visiting the LBT, which should be a great opportunity to begin to form these relationships. We would like as many members as possible to participate. The proposed program is described below.Friday April 17th● 10 am start● 10-10.30 am: tea, coffee, chance to look around and mingle.● 10.30 am – 10.50 am: Talk and Q and A about what the Living Boat Trust …
Posted Mar 29, 2015, 5:59 AM by Posts Editor
Motor Boat License CourseThere were so many doing the motor boat license course on Saturday that the first shift had to start at the crack of dawn – literally. Thanks to Colin Stokes for running the course, and to Glynn Shevels for organising it – a terrific initiative. If you need this license yourself keep an eye out – there should be further opportunities in the future.
Posted Mar 29, 2015, 5:42 AM by Posts Editor
Nancy Towing TrialAfter all the good work put in by Brian Marriot, and after the Hobart and back sea trial conducted by the two Brians, We have every confidence in Nancy being able to get about under her own power. But it’s always a good idea to have a backup plan, and ours is that if Nancy gets stuck we will tow her out of bother with Rowan. An even better idea was to test the plan – which happened last Tuesday. See the results in the pics below. Pics from Brian Marriot
Posted Mar 26, 2015, 3:21 PM by Posts Editor
Notice to MarinersTitle: Exclusion Zone – vessels engaged in berthing operations. ‘Significant and dangerous wash can be produced by large commercial vessels and the attendant tugs while the vessel is being berthed. This wash can have serious adverse effects upon the safety of other vessels in the vicinity. Therefore Marine and Safety Tasmania (MAST) declares that a 90 metre exclusion zone exists around any vessel that is under pilotage and engaged in berthing operations. Only vessels engaged in assisting with the berthing operation are permitted to operate within the exclusion zone. Mariners are still advised to navigate with caution when operating within the vicinity of commercial berthing operations as wash from tugs when engaged at full power can extend well beyond the exclusion …
Posted Mar 25, 2015, 3:49 PM by Posts Editor
Blue AngelFrom Andrew Wilson: ‘I’ve been asked to spread this around the maritime community. It’s a 2 for 1 offer to see Blue Angel on Wednesday or Thursday this week coming. Blue Angel’s about recognising the merchant seamen who bring all of the things we use in life to our shores on cargo container ships, it’s part of Ten Days on the island.’ See the attached flyer for more details: http://bit.ly/1LBYNcw
Posted Mar 20, 2015, 5:18 PM by Posts Editor
Preparing to build the new verandah extensionThe Building permit for the new extension on the south side of the shed should be signed off very shortly – at which point we can get stuck into it. We need to get as much organised as possible ahead of time. A ‘biggy’ is moving the office from its current location to somewhere out of the way. This should be a temporary arrangement: once we have the space provided by the extension we can discard the office. The current proposal is to put it next to the verandah at the river end – identified by the red rectangle in the diagram below. The office is on skids which appear to be damaged: it will likely need to be loaded onto a …
Posted Mar 20, 2015, 1:53 PM by Posts Editor
First Aid CoursesAs many members may know the LBT was successful in obtaining a grant from the Tasmanian Men’s Shed Association specifically to provide training to members which is relevant to their volunteer activities with the Trust. Part of that grant money was designated for First Aid training for up to ten members of the LBT, who are actively involved in Trust activities ie: people involved in the workshop,WOW, on the water activities, Nancy volunteers etc. If you do not hold a current First Aid certificate and you consider it would be of benefit to your involvement with LBT activities, please contact Graham Rankin to register your interest and to indicate which days might suit you best. Once we have …
Posted Mar 17, 2015, 5:17 PM by Unknown user
Port Esperance RegattaThe Port Esperance Sailing Club (Dover) will be hosting its Easter Regatta on Saturday 4th and Sunday 5th of April 2015. See http://pesc.com.au/news/news.html for a link to the entry form and more information.
Posted Mar 15, 2015, 2:53 PM by Unknown user
Tawe Nunnugah 2015 videoOur house cinematographer Martin Kell has done it again: produced a lovely video of the event. View it at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=J2-aMMFC82A. Judging from Martin’s record ‘rained out’ wasn’t a problem: the expeditioners enjoyed their time ashore as much as on the water.
Posted Mar 15, 2015, 2:29 PM by Unknown user
Earliest St Ayles Skiff?From Murray Kingsley: ‘At the Warrnambool (Victoria Australia) Maritime Museum we are building a St Ayles Skiff. May we claim [the Nydam] boat as a direct ancestor (given that the early Shetland Islanders had their boats shipped out from Norway in pieces to assemble on St Ayles and other Shetland Islands)? I am interested to find out how the Nydam builders finished the rolling bevels at the plank ends at bow and stern. English Ramped Rabbet? ShipLap? Dory Lap? (To use our modern terms) Or??? ( I believe there was also an early type of gain at lap ends that started with a notch or hook leading into a rolling bevel to a feather edge?) Or??? Just How did these earliest …
Posted Mar 12, 2015, 8:57 PM by Unknown user
Franklin Working Waterfront Film NightFrom Sonia Shimeld: ‘We are inviting all our members (a good reason to become a member if you have let it lapse) and their families to a film night at the Wooden Boat Centre (Franklin) on Friday 20th March at 7pm for 7.30pm. Come and join us for a fun night to catch up with everyone and find out what has been happening at the FWWA. I don’t have everyone’s email, so please send this around to others if you think they are a member of the FWWA – the more the merrier.’
Posted Mar 12, 2015, 8:21 PM by Unknown user
News from across the TasmanDuring the recent Regatta many of us had the opportunity to enjoy the company of the Kiwi contingent: Mike Mahoney, Baden and Steve. There is discussion about forming an Australasian St Ayles Skiff Association in which they are keen participants. Of course there are all sorts of good boaty things happening in the land of the long white cloud, and Mike has sent the latest edition of the ‘New Zealand Classic Yacht’ journal: see http://bit.ly/1AUnghG .
Posted Mar 8, 2015, 9:35 PM by Unknown user
Oar making, Monday nightThe ‘working bee’ part of Monday evening will include oar making using some of the poplar that have been seasoning over by the stone wall for the last year. We’ll also be refurbishing some of our existing oars. (Pic from wooden boat forum)
Posted Mar 8, 2015, 6:05 AM by Unknown user
Opportunity to visit Nyrstar Zinc Works, 30th of April Noel Condon (of the Men’s Shed Association) writes: ‘Arrangements have been made for a visit and tour of the Nyrstar Zinc Works from 10am on Thursday 30th of April. This tour is limited to 40 people, and WH&S conditions are very tight. (For Mens Shed Members only) It will be about a 2 hour tour, starting with an induction and issue of PPE. Every person MUST wear long trousers, and long sleeve shirts. Steel cap boots are to be worn , if you do not have any, shoe sizes are required so Nyrstar can arrange “loan boots” for you. They will supply hard hats, safety glasses, and hi-viz vests during induction. This tour is a walking tour, with …
Posted Mar 8, 2015, 5:33 AM by Unknown user
LBT ExpeditionsFrom Ros Barnett: There are many ways you can get onto the water with the Living Boat Trust. As a member or volunteer, and by reading the email newsletter, you will find out about the frequent informal expeditions that happen almost spontaneously from time to time. For example, next Saturday evening (14th March 2015) a group are setting off from Franklin for a twilight raid on Huonville where they will have fish and chips on the river bank before returning home. Depending on the number of people who turn out the fleet might include Swiftsure II, Imagine, a couple of the Grebes, and a few kayaks and canoes. Overnight expeditions to places a little further afield such as Brookes Bay …
Posted Mar 8, 2015, 5:34 AM by Unknown user
Another ‘Swift Shure’Most of us around the LBT are aware of the genesis of our whaleboat ‘Swiftsure 2′, that she is based on the lines of an original 19th century Tasmanian ‘Swiftsure‘ that ended up in New Zealand’s Canterbury Museum (see http://bit.ly/1m3gmks). Ros Barnett has turned up the story of another ‘Swiftsure‘ replica completed relatively recently in kiwi land – see http://gablerose.com/jackson-swiftsure.html . Apparently Picton museum is the place to go if you want to see her. We like the alternative spelling, and agree with Mark Twain when he said ‘I don’t give a damn for a man who can only spell a word one way’.
Posted Mar 6, 2015, 5:04 PM by Unknown user
Bendigo Skiff gets wingsWe’ve all heard of the winged keel, but a winged rudder? See Graham Rankin’s latest update on the Bendigo Skiff build for an explanation: http://bit.ly/1ExepZ8
Posted Mar 6, 2015, 2:23 PM by Unknown user
Lake Pedder – Remarkable Weekend ExcursionRos Barnett writes: ‘I am seeking expressions of interest in a weekend of rowingand exploring on Lake Pedder, possibly in April 2015, or if it cannot beorganised that soon then in November or December.’ If you think that sounds like fun read on: http://bit.ly/1F7x4cq
Posted Mar 3, 2015, 8:59 PM by Unknown user
Fran’s CoracleFran demonstrated his coracle and the sculling technique required to move it along at the regatta: for anybody who wants a challenge this looks like one! Here are some more recent pictures from Angela and Allan and Richard Edwards.
Posted Mar 1, 2015, 6:34 PM by Unknown user
Taking care of posteriorsOne of the more vulnerable parts of the rower’s anatomy is that at the base of the spine. Forewarned is forearmed, and many people bring along their own sheepskins and padding to deal with the problem. The Bendigo Skiff builders have also been thinking about the comfort of the cox: see what you think of their solution below, and on ‘Day 48’ of the build site: http://bit.ly/1zM6aTU
Posted Mar 3, 2015, 9:00 PM by Unknown user
Twilight row: Saturday March 14th‘LAST OF THE SUMMER CHIPS’: ROW/PADDLE FROM FRANKLIN TO BOAT HOUSE CAFEOur ex-Bulgarian rowing coach, Boris, has reviewed our training dietary regime prior to the St Ayles Skiff Regatta, and advises that we need to increase carbohydrates, fats and cholesterol in order to maximise our performance levels. Take advantage of the last days of daylight saving, plus ideal tide on Sat March 14. We hope to take Imagine, Swiftsure and the usual miscellaneous kayaks. Times 3.30pm – depart LBT (be on the water); 6.00pm – depart Huonville for return trip (sunset 7.30pm); Saturday March 14thUsual $5 rowing fee applies for use of LBT boats. For more info contact Barb Dawson: barbara.dawson@bigpond.com, 0408 …
Posted Mar 6, 2015, 2:13 PM by Unknown user
LBT committee meeting this coming ThursdayA reminder that LBT committee meetings are held once a month. If you have an item you want added to the agenda send it to sec@lbt.org.au. Minutes are always available online from the website: choose Resources from the main menu then Committee Minutes. Items to be addressed at this month’s meeting include: Cooperation with the Working WaterfrontReports on the AWBF, Tawe Nunnugah, Homecoming Raid and Regatta Maintaining rowing momentumGetting a good trailer for 2 skiffsTraining: deckhands, first aid, radio, motor boatMen’s Shed visit On the Water ProgramModel BoatsPlan for NancyShed extensionBoatshedOar making/maintenanceWebsite Useage Report
Posted Feb 23, 2015, 8:50 PM by Unknown user
Australian Whale Boat Racing ChampionshipsFranklin wasn’t the only venue for ‘traditional’ boat rowing races last weekend: you could also have gone to Warrnambool (Western Victoria) to be involved. See https://www.facebook.com/whaleboatracing to read all about it.
Posted Feb 20, 2015, 4:42 PM by Unknown user
Thursday morning rowing groupMaintain those muscles! Keep up your new rowing skills with the LBT mens rowing group – Thursday mornings at 9am. Email David Budd ozskiff@gmail.com The old boys fight out the final of the 1km over 60’s (won by Cygnet)
Posted Feb 20, 2015, 4:43 PM by Unknown user
RowlocksAfter the St Ayles Skiff Regatta there is no hotter topic: we have been led to believe that it was an off-agenda item at Friday’s meeting of Premier and Cabinet. Based on Lorrie Harrison’s ‘deep penetration’ espionage in Scotland the Bendigo Skiff is being fitted with the latest: see pic below and http://bit.ly/1AtgouO . Ali Grant (from the Scottish Rowing Association) sends the following advice, and more pics. ‘PINS/ ROWLOCKSWe are the champions of modification – and that’s not necessarily a good thing! Just when you think all possibilities have been exhausted, someone will come up with a new design and it all starts again. In the SCRA clubs, experimentation within the rules is …
Posted Feb 20, 2015, 4:15 PM by Unknown user
Scottish Coastal RowingAlec Jordan has been reporting on our local events on the ‘Scottish Coastal Rowing’ site, the home for the St Ayles Skiff in cyberspace. See http://bit.ly/1EjdkSH and http://bit.ly/1Ejdg5g . There are some excellent resources on this site: see for instance the instructions for building a skiff at http://bit.ly/1DtNy0U .
Posted Feb 18, 2015, 10:02 PM by Unknown user
News from our new Kiwi friends‘Day one back in the office and productivity extremely low as I daydream of the fun, wonderful people and events that I’m sure exceeded eveyone’s expectations. The Raid, Hobart Festival, return Raid, Franklin Regatta , film evening, musicals ………. how can we try and emulate that. You are a very special, colourful, creative and talented group held with a glue seldom found today. Steve Cranch and I will hatch a cunning plan in the near future. Based on your format, it will include a Raid around the Hauraki Gulf Islands, the Mahurangi Classic Regatta (over 100 year history) , Auckland Anniversary regatta (175 year history) and of course the Interdominion Skiff Regatta in Auckland. At this juncture please forward this to …
Posted Feb 19, 2015, 2:10 PM by Unknown user
The Tuesday Landscaping GroupWe’ve all stubbed our toes from time to time when hauling boats through the reeds, but who would have thunk there were this many boulders (and other nasties) lying in wait for our pinkies?
Posted Feb 16, 2015, 6:00 PM by Unknown user
Rowing Regatta – Huon River Franklin, 28th Feb, 1st MarchNotice to Mariners: A Rowing Regatta will be held on the Huon River at Franklin on Saturday, 28 February and Sunday, 01 March 2015. Mariners are advised the River will beclosed for other boating pursuits from 0800 to 1700. Boat owners are restricted from using the boat ramp at Franklin and from entering the rowing restricted area during these times. The restricted area is the course and 500 metres either side of the course. The course is 1500m upstream from the Huon Rowing Club and 500m downstream.Boat owners must follow directions of rowing officials. A public boat ramp is available at Shipwrights Point south of Franklin.
Posted Feb 16, 2015, 5:06 PM by Unknown user
Skiff Regatta at Port HuonExtracted from the Huon Yacht Club newsletter: “our club had a fabulous day today [Thursday 13th Feb] hosting the visitors attending the World Championship St Ayles Regatta at Franklin. A willing band of helpers arrived at 0930 hrs to help set up the clubhouse, Anne had washed the floors, Roger had assembled an interesting history display inside, Susie and Anne had sliced the onions and made the hamburgers, several ladies had made scrumptious cakes and slices to feed the hungry hordes, Lynette and Ray not only supplied home made vegie burgers and other goodies, they also hammered nails into walls to take the string of flags supplied by Lorri. Rod Coombe, Sue Batt and her family helped carry trestles up …
Posted Feb 16, 2015, 5:08 PM by Unknown user
St Ayles Skiff Regatta ReportRead Jane Johnson’s take on proceedings in the attached document: http://bit.ly/1vxnk5S Pic from Rob Ayliffe
Posted Feb 15, 2015, 6:46 PM by Unknown user
LBT Monday nights to resume 23rd FebruaryAfter producing a huge curry last night for the wind up of the St Ayles Skiff Regatta (big thanks to Ali McRae), the cooks want to rest on their laurels this week (sounds more than fair enough), but we’ll be back to the normal working bee/dinner next Monday.
Posted Feb 16, 2015, 3:16 AM by Unknown user
Ian’s 90thIan Moncrieff writes:‘Dear Peter and all, I write to thank you very much for the use of the LBT premises for (the first of) my 90th birthday celebrations. My wife Di made the selection of venue as it is one of our favourite places in Tasmania. We speak to our friends in awe and admiration of your interesting and rewarding activities and it was lovely to be able to show some of them the LBT Workshop in reality. The birthday party was acclaimed a huge success. For this I particularly thank Jilly, Ninka and many of our close sailing friends and especially, Di. Di and I also thank Richard for his excellent newsletter that keeps us in touch with …
Posted Feb 14, 2015, 7:15 PM by Unknown user
Various Skiff Regatta photosThere has been a lot going on: find some pics of some of it at http://bit.ly/1ACuc7Q. Thanks to Rob Ayliffe and others for these.
Posted Feb 15, 2015, 3:26 PM by Unknown user
Homecoming Passage reportWe really should have sung the Internationale at the start of the Homecoming Passage expedition in deference to our diversity. We were Scots, New Zealanders, Iranians and Tasmanians, not to mention those from a range of locations on the big island – South Australians, New South Welsh people and Victorians. We locals know that we have the BEST cruising waters in Australia, but what we couldn’t predict was the weather which would have such a bearing on our visitors being able to enjoy them. In the event it was perfect: calm mornings good for rowing, breezy afternoons for the sailors and lots of sun. Off the water was as good as on. We had a trip down memory lane at …
Posted Feb 14, 2015, 7:07 PM by Unknown user
Festival Report from Graham RankinThe weather was perfect, the crowds enormous and our Festival site was humming. A big thank you to all the volunteers who gave their time to help out, whether it was a few hours or the whole four days. Thanks to the Women on Water for keeping us company (and sharing the site costs!) and the Franklin History Group as well. With the Wooden Boat School right next door, the fair village of Franklin was well represented. We had a lot of interest in what we do and our mail box was bursting with expressions of interest by Monday, we must be doing something good down here. As far as fund raising went , we made over $4,800.00 (gross …
Posted Feb 14, 2015, 3:37 PM by Unknown user
LBT Grebes at the Wooden Boat FestivalFrom Graham Rankin: ‘Festival goers may have noticed dinghies around Con dock with lots of happy people rowing or being rowed, and thinking those boats look familiar, they were!. Three of our grebes and the Huon Rat were on hand, courtesy of LBT supporter Ian Johnson. Ian came up with the idea, organised transport, volunteers and we provided the lighthouse collection box, and hey presto we made over $800.00 in donations during the Festival. This was an unexpected bonus, and a big thank you to Ian for his great support, especially given how busy he was with all his other Festival duties. Thanks also to Dennis and Hans for helping me bring the boats back on Tuesday‘ Pics from …
Posted Feb 14, 2015, 3:38 PM by Unknown user
Pictured with the GovernorThe St Ayles Skiffs raced on the Derwent watched by her Excellency. The ‘photo opportunity’ was not passed up.The winning team; the asylum seeker team. Pictures from Marcia Waller
Posted Feb 9, 2015, 12:11 AM by Unknown user
Latest Skiff Regatta programThe organisers of the Regatta have been working diligently on sorting out all the activities so there is a minimum of confusion and a maximum of enjoyment: see the fruits of their labours at http://bit.ly/1CFNzP7
Posted Feb 7, 2015, 2:52 PM by Unknown user
Skiff Regatta NewsletterSee attached: http://bit.ly/16w0WmH
Posted Feb 7, 2015, 11:38 AM by Unknown user
tawe nunnugah arrives in HobartAn empty Waterman’s Dock was suddenly crowded with boats. Look at all those St Ayles Skiffs! See more of Nell Tyson’s pictures at http://bit.ly/1vxk3cg
Posted Feb 7, 2015, 4:29 AM by Unknown user
Rowing orders in Persian(Persian words spelt phonetically) Forward and Ready – Aamardeh (get ready); Row – borroah (role the r); Backwater – borroah agab; Easy Oars – Esterahart (rest); Hold Water – torrmoz (brake, stop); Turn – betcharkh (gutteral, throat clearing end to the word) Right – rarst; Left – chap. You never stop learning at the Living Boat Trust
Posted Feb 6, 2015, 11:50 AM by Richard Forster
Nancy makes it to the Wooden Boat FestivalThe two Brians spruced Nancy up this morning, hosing and brushing her down until it was pointed out that Kettering is on tank water (whoops!). They left shortly there after, and arrived on schedule this afternoon at Sullivan’s Cove. Brian Marriot used MotionX GPS to plot their course (he knows, I don’t): see the map pictured below or http://bit.ly/1Av3bnK . Nancy leaving Kettering – get those fenders in chaps.
Posted Feb 6, 2015, 11:18 AM by Unknown user
LBT at the Wooden Boat FestivalGraham Rankin has organised our marquee at the Festival (next to Waterman’s Dock), and bump in was today. All went (approximately) to plan, and we were open for business this afternoon. Looks like the Bendigo Skiff and Angela’s model boats are taking pride of place. Pics from Graham Rankin
Posted Feb 5, 2015, 1:21 AM by Unknown user
Welcome to Hobart for tawe nunnugahBe at the Hope and Anchor (65 Macquarie Street Hobart) to welcome the tawe nunnugah expeditioners 3-5pm on Friday. The Wooden Boat Festival will be open, so make that part of the excursion to.
Posted Feb 4, 2015, 5:26 PM by Unknown user
Bendigo Skiff out of the shedDon’t stand still at the LBT or you will be put to work. Our visitors helped us carry the Bendigo Skiff out onto the waiting trailer so that we take it up to the Festival for everybody to admire it.
Posted Feb 4, 2015, 1:31 AM by Unknown user
Special VisitorsThe Living Boat Trust is always a welcome sight when one arrives in Franklin: its shed a hive of activity, its lawn artistically dotted with boats. On Tuesday it was suddenly enhanced by a mushrooming of tents, the pulse of middle eastern music, a crackling campfire, and good smells eminating from the kitchen. Robert Ayliffe has brought a group of asylum seekers across from South Australia for the St Ayles Skiff Championships, and they have settled in with amazing rapidity. The plan is that they will be with us for a couple of days of practise, decamp to Hobart for the Festival, then return with the Homecoming Passage boats for the championships. Pics from Hans Sipsma
Posted Feb 5, 2015, 3:35 AM by Unknown user
South Australian Skiffs arriveRobert Ayliffe has brought over 2 Skiffs to compete in the Regatta. They look beautiful, and they were in the river today being used for practise. A close look revealed two different ways of securing the oars: a topic for much discussion no doubt.
Posted Feb 4, 2015, 12:07 AM by Unknown user
Donation of Seagull motorWe already had ‘Viking’ to help us remember our old friend Simon Pargeter (Parj), and now we have a restored Seagull motor. It won’t be strong enough to drive ‘Viking’, but we have plenty of smaller boats. Many thanks to the Pargeter family, who donated this motor.
Posted Feb 3, 2015, 11:30 PM by Unknown user
Nancy is in KetteringThe two Brians, Pain and Marriot, steered Nancy into dock at Kettering on Wednesday afternoon, having had a relatively uneventful trip from Port Huon. Uneventful was good: this was the first stress test for Nancy’s new electric controller and motor. In 1.5 metre swell and 20 knot cross winds before the Gordon corner she was uncomfortable but manageable: strong headwinds at sea might be more problematic. With a generator backup there was no problem with overstressing the batteries, but she will still need an overnight charge up. And Brian Marriot’s coffee machine functioned perfectly the whole way: the tipping factor in declaring the trip a success. Next stop Hobart.
Posted Feb 3, 2015, 11:21 PM by Unknown user
Notice to Mariners: Wooden Boat FestivalMariners are advised that there will be two Parades of Sail during the Wooden Boat Festival which will take place as follows: 1. On Friday, 6 February vessels will assemble off John Garrow Light (Lat 42 degrees 54.9’ South, Long 147 degrees 21.99’ East) at 12.00 pm and sail to Sullivan’s Cove, completing the sail past around 1.30 pm. 2. On Monday, 9 February vessels will assemble off Sullivan’s Cove at 3.00 pm, sail to a point south of the Tasman Bridge and return to Sullivan’s Cove around 4.30 pm. Mariners and others are advised that, under the provision of Regulation 74 of the Marine and Safety (Pilotage and Navigation) Regulations …
Posted Feb 2, 2015, 7:44 PM by Unknown user
The Skiffs are comingRobert Ayliffe has brought a triple load over from South Australia. They should be arriving in Franklin on Tuesday. For more Regatta news see the website: tasskiffie2015.org Pic from Robert Ayliffe
Posted Feb 1, 2015, 2:35 AM by Unknown user
Nancy NewsBrian Marriot, with help from Graham Wright, has patiently been plugging away at the problems we have been having with ‘Nancy’. It turns out that ‘plugging’ is the correct verb to use, as the source these problems has been revealed to be the 35 pin plug, specially and deviously designed by Bastards Inc, via which the electronics are connected to the controller. Brian is now confident that he has this bit of feral, plastic trash under control and that we can start to think about how we should actually run Nancy. To this end he has produced the graph below, showing that in her current configuration Nancy is good for about 4 knots, after which each gain is speed is …
Posted Jan 31, 2015, 2:22 PM by Unknown user
tawe nunnugah rescheduledDue to the inclement weather, actual and forecast, tawe nunnugah will resume at Dover on Sunday evening, and will be back on the original plan at Alonnah on Monday evening. Larger boats are to make their way to Dover by sea, smaller boats by trailer. Accommodation is being organised with Far South Wilderness Lodge (farsouthwilderness.com.au/). Luxury.
Posted Jan 29, 2015, 6:36 PM by Unknown user
tawe nunnugah photo galleryPhotos will be added to the gallery as they come in: see http://bit.ly/1EszRzD Pic from Nell Tyson: Syrah in Recherche Bay
Posted Jan 29, 2015, 12:32 PM by Unknown user
tawe nunnugah day 1See daily reports on the tawe nunnugah expedition on the tn15 homepage: tn15.org, with lots of gorgeous pictures (from Nell Tyson and others). Day 1 is already up see http://bit.ly/1COvnSb
Posted Jan 29, 2015, 12:38 AM by Unknown user
Host of opportunities to sample Skiff racingMarcia Waller writes:‘The excitement of the St Ayles Skiff Regatta to be held in Franklin from 12th to 15th February begins the weekend before in Hobart at the Australian Wooden Boat Festival and Hobart Regatta. A St Ayles Skiff component will be based at “Franklin Village” at Waterman’s Dock, throughout the Festival, where you can buy souvenir T-shirts, caps, badges and car-stickers. Skiffs will also be on display near Mawsons Hut.’For more about Skiffs at the festival see http://bit.ly/15Wf6hL on the tasskiffie2015.org page. Pic from Annette Cauchi
Posted Jan 28, 2015, 8:30 PM by Unknown user
Music at the St Ayles Skiff RegattaThe Regatta is intended to look after our spiritual as well as our physical wellbeing, and to that end TOP ACTS have been booked to perform for us. These acts (in turn) were concerned for our economic wellbeing, and so all the events are FREE, although the hat may be put out to solicit donations to sponsor the Regatta. Kicking off at the Palais on Thursday night (12th Feb) 6.30pm will be the Licorice Allsorts choir, and then Tiffany Eckhardt and Dave Steel. Tiff and Dave are a very well known duo in their previous home state of Victoria, and after this concert we are sure their fame will travel through the valley and thence to the rest of …
Posted Jan 28, 2015, 5:19 PM by Unknown user
Final preparations for Tawe NunnugahThe many hands that were attracted to Monday night dinner were called into action to haul Swiftsure from the river for a scrub down before she was loaded onto the trailer (thanks Piet Lundstedt) for the trip to Cockle Creek. She is a heavy beast. Ros Barnett’s traditional Australia Day fare (party pies, bangers and mash, pavlova) were especially welcome after all the activity.
Posted Jan 26, 2015, 1:56 PM by Unknown user
Mapping the lower Huon RiverRoy Cordiner brought some beautiful maps into the shed the other day which should be of great interest to anybody who has run up on a Huon mudbank (who hasn’t). He installed a depth sounder and a GPS on his pulling boat and crisscrossed the river to take a tight mesh of soundings from the northern tip of South Egg Island to Port Huon. The secrets of the maze of channels and shallows is revealed. Thank you Roy: he hopes to sell these maps as booklets for less than $30, and we will be queueing up. Don’t forget that Doug Emery has produced an aid to navigating from Port Huon to Franklin: see http://www.setech-it.com …
Posted Jan 26, 2015, 4:32 AM by Unknown user
LBT presence at the Wooden Boat FestivalGraham Rankin writes: ‘Yep, it’s that time again. The LBT is looking for a few good men AND women to help person our marquee at the Festival. For those not going on the Raid, or even Raiders who want to enthuse others to join next time, we need you! This is a wonderful opportunity to tell the world about the Trust and Franklin, and what makes us the wooden boat centre of the universe. If you would like to volunteer a couple of hours, a day or whatever, that would be great. There will be roster on the shed notice board where you can add your name and contact details, and which times you’d like to be available …
Posted Jan 28, 2015, 8:41 PM by Unknown user
Australia Day – just another shed nightRos Barnett writes: ‘My expectation is that I am doing the shed night meal this coming Monday and I have decided on an extraordinary menu of meat pies and pavlova. It has to be simple so that I can get on with TN15 prep: be aware that dinner doesn’t get served until the work gets done. I expect to spend all day Tuesday at the shed cleaning, organising, packing all the catering gear. Any assistance would be much appreciated.‘ Looks like we could also do with some assistance getting vehicles back from Cockle Creek on Wednesday. If you want an excursion to Cockle with a purpose register your availability at the Tawe Nunnugah Exchange Mart: http://bit.ly …
Posted Jan 24, 2015, 10:43 PM by Unknown user
The Franklin QuiltFrom Jane Johnson: ‘When Franklin became the host of the International St Ayles Skiff Regatta to be held in the town in February, a seed was sewn (literally) to commemorate the event by producing a public artwork. From little things, big things have grown…or been sewn. Small stitches have become flowers, doors, windows, houses, a river and hills – the hand-made artwork that is the Franklin Quilt. Project Designer and supervisor Jane Walduck commented “As a group we tried to capture the historic ambience of the town by sewing 24 of the buildings along the Main Road.” ‘For more info about the quilt and the Regatta see the news item on the tasskiffie2015.org page: http://bit.ly/1yGsn8L
Posted Jan 24, 2015, 1:35 PM by Richard Forster
‘Syrah’ ready to sailA group of us old gaffers gasbagging on the dock yesterday were struck dumb by the site of Syrah (skippered by Peter Cook) accelerating smoothly away down the river. Hans and Nell took her on an overnight shakedown trip during the week and report all went very well: ‘goes like the clappers’. Looks like she will be a real asset for expeditions and general sailing around Franklin: for more about her see http://bit.ly/1uxPW0e . Pic from Nell Tyson
Posted Jan 24, 2015, 10:44 PM by Unknown user
Southport Regatta, 31st JanuaryYou don’t have to be part of tawe nunnugah to join in the fun and games at Southport, about 45 minutes south of Franklin. Here is a snippet describing the 2013 event: Back at Jetty House the kids were beginning their boat construction of the cardboard quick and dirty. Six fine craft were constructed with rather a lot of cello tape over a couple of hours. Boats were then proudly carried to the beach where a course had been set. After a frenetic start four of the six boats completed the course a record I believe (Crabwacker first, Pocket Rocket second), a great time was had by all. Then it was on to the main event the Regatta a …
Posted Jan 23, 2015, 3:27 PM by Unknown user
Notice to Mariners: Living Boat Trust ExpeditionValid From: 22/1/2015; Valid Until: 6/2/2015. Notice Content: Mariners are advised there will be a small boat expedition departing Recherche Bay on Wednesday, 28 January and progressing up the D’Entrecasteaux Channel and arriving in Hobart around Friday, 6 February, weather permitting. The voyage will consist of a flotilla of small boats and other accompanying vessels that will carry VHF radios. Mariners in the area are requested to keep a lookout for the boats and navigate with caution in their vicinity.
Posted Jan 24, 2015, 11:39 AM by Richard Forster
Join the Swiftsure crew‘Swiftsure’ needs to be got back from the Wooden Boat Festival to Franklin. The boring way is by road, the much better way is as part of the Homecoming Passage fleet. If you missed out on tawe nunnugah, or if you want more, here is your chance to get aboard. Swiftsure a great boat for this sort of thing: the combination of oars and sail means there is always something happening, and the crew of six plus makes it a social event. To find out more see http://bit.ly/1zyKa0n. Sign up at http://bit.ly/1wXCbud (pic: John Walduck steers Swiftsure past Huon Island on the way home from the 2014 expedition to Kettering)
Posted Jan 21, 2015, 2:28 PM by Unknown user
Attn: Boat owners ashore, AWBFFrom Bronwyn Long: Attention Boats in Zones 5, 6 and 7: We have had a change of entry for any boat that is in Zone 5, 6 & 7. You will now enter from Elizabeth Street onto Franklin Wharf, you will also exit the same way.. Attention All Boat Ashore Owners: I have included all Boats Ashore Owners on this email as the map that is attached (http://bit.ly/15bf6c9) has been updated with some new information that may be of help to all especially our Interstate Visitors.. hope it does help.. Attention all Boat Owners who are inside PW1: I have included a message from Neil Broomfield our Boats Ashore Manager below: No boat will be permitted to be …
Posted Jan 21, 2015, 1:17 PM by Unknown user
‘Tuesday’ gets wet for the first timeGlynn Shevels writes: ‘At high tide early this morning ‘Tuesday’ was put in the water. Her sea trial went very well with only a couple of items needing attention. She will be a Franklin moored at the marina on Monday.’ If there is no other reason for coming to the dinner/working bee that night you now have one. Pic from Glynn
Posted Jan 21, 2015, 2:29 PM by Unknown user
Brooke St Pier roof on the move againIt has only travelled 10 metres, but it is now in the Wooden Boat Centre car park freeing up the Living Boat Trust lawn for the use during the St Ayles Skiff Regatta. Thank you to the Franklin Working Waterfront who organised this. Pic from Barb Dawson
Posted Jan 20, 2015, 11:36 AM by Unknown user
Australia Day on the Huonville Foreshore on Monday 26 JanuaryLisa Pohl (Communications Officer, Huon Council) writes: ‘Please see the attached poster (http://bit.ly/1Gn7fK5). Could you please share with all your friends and family. All are welcome and there is a free breakfast from 8am – 10.30am. We have hired a bus service to pickup from Cygnet, Dover, Geeveston and Franklin. You can register online or phone 6264 0343. Many thanks and I hope to see many of you there.
Posted Jan 19, 2015, 9:57 PM by Unknown user
Living Boat Trust membership cardElise Retino has suggested that LBT members should get a card, and has provided the following designs. which is your favourite card? Vote now using the form below. Watch the vote count on the table underneath.
Posted Jan 19, 2015, 4:00 PM by Richard Forster
Saving our Heritage Boats – Invitation – 08.02.2015Fellow Wooden Boat enthusiasts, Please find attached (http://bit.ly/1sNliT8) an invitation to join like-minded people interested in saving Heritage Boats in Australia. A short conference to discuss this topic will be held during the MyState Australian Wooden Boat Festival, Sunday 8 February, 2015 from 1pm to 3pm at the Maritime Museum of Tasmania, 16 Argyle Street, Hobart which is diagonally across the road from the Mawson Waterside Pavilion and just up Argyle Street from Mawson’s Hut. If you or any of your members would like to attend and give support for the preservation of our heritage boats, please reply to above address along with your contact details to Cheryl Barnett, Hon. Secretary Association of Heritage Boat …
Posted Jan 17, 2015, 4:31 PM by Unknown user
Support for Regatta from Events TasmaniaThat ace application writer Annette Cauchi has done it again: rounded up an extra $1250 for the Regatta. Congratulations to her and thanks to Events Tasmania for the marketing grant.
Posted Jan 14, 2015, 2:20 PM by Unknown user
Notice to MarinersTitle: Navigation Hazard – Floating Debris; Valid From: 14/1/2015; Valid Until: 21/1/2015. Notice Content: Mariners are advised that recent heavy rains have caused debris to be washed into rivers and estuaries around the State. This debris, often partly submerged logs, presents a navigation hazard to vessels. Mariners are also advised that the heavy rainfall and run off from rivers into coastal waters may cause barways and river mouth entries to change substantially due to moving sand around the Tasmanian coast, particularly the East and South East Coast. Mariners are urged to take extreme caution whilst navigating seaward from rivers across barways and in estuarine waters whilst these conditions exist.
Posted Jan 13, 2015, 2:39 PM by Unknown user
Homecoming and tawe nunnugah exchange mart There are plenty of opportunities for helping each other out on tawe nunnugah and the Homecoming with transport, equipment, ideas etc. We know a lot of this happens informally and that is great, but there is now a simple online system to assist: find the web page for this at http://bit.ly/1ybEoD1 . There is a link to it from the tn15.org site. The first request has already been posted: ‘A vehicle is required to tow the two tonne refrigerated van for the Homecoming Passage, 9th-12th Feb. Should be easy going, not off road. Happy to borrow or hire. Trying to keep expedition costs down.Contact sec@lbt.org.au
Posted Jan 13, 2015, 1:18 PM by Unknown user
Boat and ship builders of Battery PointNicole Mays writes: ‘I wanted to update you on the status of my book. Spirited, Skilled and Determined: The Boat and Ship Builders of Battery Point (1835-1935) has finally been published! Details include: Chapters on prominent colonial builders, including William Williamson, John Watson, Peter Degraves, James Mackey, John Lucas, John Ross, Robert Inches, Joseph Risby, and Jacob Chandler, etc; Chapters on prominent 20th century builders, including Charlie Lucas, Percy Coverdale, Purdon and Featherstone, etc; A chapter on Alfred Blore, prominent local boat designer; Lots of photos (black and white); Appendix summarising the 700+ vessels built at Battery Point between 1835 and 1935; Bibliography and Index; Foreward by Graeme Broxam; Hardcover, 320 pages; ISBN: 9780646931340.’Congratulations to Nicole. Book will …
Posted Jan 13, 2015, 2:43 PM by Unknown user
Bendigo Skiff Build: photo collageFor those who like to get their information in pictures there is a collage of the entire build (so far) at http://bit.ly/1srniQH
Posted Jan 12, 2015, 1:19 PM by Unknown user
Counting down to the festivals and tawe nunnugahRos Barnett attempted to serve dinner at 7.30 on Monday night, and was told to put it back on the stove until work was finished. Dinghies were sanded and oiled, equipment checked and repaired, catering procedures practiced and the LBT block and shed cleaned up. It’s all systems go. Pictures from Ben Forster
Posted Jan 13, 2015, 1:24 PM by Unknown user
Sheltered Passage: maritime documentaries‘Sheltered Passage is a series of high-quality, short documentary films that celebrate the people and landscapes shaped by the D’Entrecasteaux Channel in Tasmania’s far south. Each of these short films offers a privileged glimpse into the lives of just some of the individuals who contribute to the making of the unique and beautiful environment that is the D’Entrecasteaux Channel. ‘ To find out more about what is going on and being involved visit the website: http://shelteredpassage.org.au/
Posted Jan 10, 2015, 10:21 PM by Unknown user
Bring out your flagsFrom Jane Johnson:‘The St Ayles Skiff Regatta in Franklin is on from Thursday Feb 12 – 15. We are expecting international and interstate crews. It would add to the welcoming atmosphere if houses and businesses decorate their venues with flags/bunting etc.ENJOY the activity and camaraderie of community rowing in the St Ayles Skiffs/Huon-River-Fest! For further information visit www.tasskiffie2015.org ph 62663224’
Posted Jan 9, 2015, 2:14 PM by Unknown user
Notice to MarinersMarine and Safety Tasmania: Notice No.: M07-15; Title: Marine Farming Lease – Police Point; Valid From: 8/1/2015; Valid Until: 10/2/2015. Notice Content: Mariners are advised Huon Aquaculture will be installing a new grid and corner markers on marine farm lease No 176, at Police Point near the mouth of the Huon River. The area will be marked outside the actual lease boundaries at the following co-ordinates from Monday, 12 January for a period of four weeks with yellow special marks on all four corners: (A) 43 degrees 14.786’S / 147 degrees 03.796’E ; (B) 43 degrees 14.648’S / 147 degrees 04.097’E ; (C) 43 degrees 15.097’S / 147 degrees 04 …
Posted Jan 9, 2015, 1:53 AM by Unknown user
Successful Application for Men’s Shed GrantThe application for a training funds grant written by Graham Rankin back in November was successful: we now have $4,720 to put to assist members getting certification for things like First Aid, Deck Hand etc. This is fantastic news. Thanks, first to the Tasmanian Government for sponsoring the Men’s Shed Association for this grant, and second to Graham for writing an excellent application.
Posted Jan 9, 2015, 1:47 AM by Unknown user
Monday night dinner (12th January)From Ros Barnett:‘The regular Monday night meal on 12th January will be a bit special because the Tawe Nunnugah catering crew are rehearsing their opening menu. It will be an Italian themed evening, with a choice of beef lasagne or roast vegetable vegetarian lasagne, an abundance of summer salad and garlic bread, followed by tiramisu. The new coffee service will get a run after dinner. The crew are also having a run though of their mobile kitchen and dining tent, so they are asking you to come along early and help with the erection of the marquee, the overhaul of the equipment, and the shake out of all the gear. There is a serious amount of work to get …
Posted Jan 9, 2015, 1:07 AM by Unknown user
Cocktail party fund raiser on YukonWe hear that this event was a great success and that a good time was had by all. A quiet reminder to those who put their drinks on the tab to pay Jane Johnson at Village Antiques.
Posted Jan 7, 2015, 3:45 AM by Unknown user
Bendigo Skiff in (long) final straightPete Heading reports that: ‘The job list is still pretty long – breast hooks, gunwhales, thwarts , rudder and tiller , floorboards and stretchers, rowlocks and rowlock holders and a long list of painting and varnishing jobs so all are welcome – Wednesdays and Fridays 10 tiill 2 although I’m usually there at 8.30 for the keen early starters.’ The skiff team had their first day back after the break: full report at http://bit.ly/1woFNkZ
Posted Jan 7, 2015, 12:49 AM by Unknown user
Look sharp if you want to book ‘Imagine’The ‘Imagine’ calendar is getting very full indeed. If your team needs to practice before the Regatta remember to make an online booking at http://bit.ly/14taZJi . This page is also accessible from the LBT calendar page.
Posted Jan 6, 2015, 4:56 PM by Unknown user
AWBF Draft ProgramThe latest version of the program for the Australian Wooden Boat Festival can be viewed at http://bit.ly/1xPvAkJ
Posted Jan 6, 2015, 2:52 PM by Unknown user
Call for VolunteersFrom Barbara Dawson:’37 days to go, and counting down! We need volunteers to help run the St Ayles Skiff regatta which is taking place over 3 days from Friday 13 February – Sunday 15 February. Each day is divided into time slots: 7.30am – 10.00am; 10.00am – 12.30pm; 12.30pm – 3.00pm. If you could help with any of these time slots, it would be much appreciated. Jobs include setting up or putting away equipment each day; official timing of races; registering competitors, marshalling the teams before they compete, selling promotional items etc. Jobs will be allocated when we have a clearer idea of who is available and when. You may be willing to help; OR you may …
Posted Jan 6, 2015, 6:38 PM by Unknown user
tawe nunnugah burgeeThis year’s version is now at the printer’s.
Posted Jan 4, 2015, 4:33 PM by Unknown user
Wooden Boat Symposium 6th-9th FebruaryLorrie Harrison points to this highlight of the Australian Wooden Boat Festival: topics covered include everything from “Wood: a Competitive Engineering Material” to “Imagine: WOW, We Built a Skiff!” and everything in between. See the attached flyer for details: http://bit.ly/1xIDvQB
Posted Jan 4, 2015, 2:55 PM by Unknown user
Participating in the St Ayles Skiff RegattaThe start of the Regatta looms, and it is time to get crews and teams organised. Lorrie Harrison and Jane Johnson send the following guidelines. ‘A CREW consists of four rowers and a coxswain. The gender and average age of a crew will determine which Regatta races they can enter (except for those which are ‘open’). For example three male rowers aged 65 and one male rower aged 58 will be eligible to enter the 60+ men’s competition. 60+ men’s competition. The age or gender of the coxswain is not taken into account. There are youth, 40+, 50+ and 60+ events. For the Regatta competition a crew must belong to a TEAM, which is defined as a group …
Posted Jan 4, 2015, 2:33 PM by Unknown user
New Year’s Day paddle/rowFrom Barbara Dawson: “Poetry in motion” gasped many a camper as the LBT mixed fleet surged downriver en route to their picnic at Shipwrights Point. An early casualty was Endra and Annette’s Grebe, whose high tech state-of-the-art carbon fibre mast malfunctioned, and was forced to turn back to harbour, shepherded by Warren, director of Safety Services for the day. The remaining rowing Grebe with Jo and Chris flew at a speed Grebes were not designed to go – unfortunately, exhausted by this early sprint, they were forced to make their own picnic stop some distance short of the line. However, the crews of Imagine, Will’s rowboat and 2 kayaks lunched on the grass at Shipwrights, with …
Posted Jan 2, 2015, 7:29 PM by Unknown user
Tassal Environmental Impact StatementFiona Ewing writes: ‘the Public Exhibition of Draft Amendment No.6 to the D’Entrecasteaux Channel Marine Farming Development Plan is currently open for public exhibition (13th December 2014 to 23rd January 2015). “Draft Amendment No.6” refers to the “Lippies and Browns” proposal about which Tassal has been consulting with stakeholders for the past 12 months. As promised I am advising you that the Environmental Impact Statement relating to this proposed amendment is now publically available.’ See http://bit.ly/1rGmya6 If you are short of holiday reading this lot will keep you going for a while.
Posted Jan 1, 2015, 12:41 PM by Unknown user
Blue TuesdayGlynn Shevels boat ‘Tuesday‘, which was the major construction job in the shed for 2013-14, is rapidly being prepared for Tawe Nunnugah and the AWBF. Glynn sent the accompanying pic of her new paint job. Interesting looking crewman peering through the top windshield: eccentric even by LBT standards.
Posted Dec 31, 2014, 9:52 PM by Unknown user
News from Spring Bay From David Gatenby: ‘And so we have had Christmas and what have we done? – in a word – Lots! The Shed has continued to develop and strengthen inside and outside activities. Our achievements are a credit to our members, both old and new, and we look forward to a very promising New Year and much further progress. ‘All at The Shed’ trust that you had a very enjoyable Christmas Time, and that you will have a really good rest afterwards as well! BEST WISHES FOR A VERY HAPPY AND PROSPEROUS NEW YEAR’ See the full newsletter attached: http://bit.ly/1tn1oco
Posted Dec 31, 2014, 12:53 PM by Unknown user
Need a (very) late present?The Franklin History Group reckon that they have identified a target market (us), and they are ruthlessly exploiting it with their latest calendar. It features a collection of irresistible historical maritime pictures from along the Huon around Franklin. This sucker has already bought his – get yours from the museum at Franks Cidery, the Wooden Boat Centre or directly from Allan Cato (acato@netspace.net.au)
Posted Dec 31, 2014, 9:44 PM by Unknown user
Children’s Book Festival, Bruny Island Festival 15-18th January 2015For those with young children or grandchildren this might be of interest. Ann Morgan wrote to invite us to bring a boat to the Community Viking games at Adventure Bay on Sunday 18th. I suspect the LBT will be too busy preparing for Tawe Nunnugah to participate, but others may like to enquire. For more information see the website: http://bit.ly/1rsL3Y3
Posted Dec 28, 2014, 3:12 AM by Unknown user
New Year’s Day row to Shipwright’s PointFrom Barbara Dawson:‘Great way to cure the effects of all that New Year’s Eve partying……. and after last Huonville row, lots of people asked for a repeat. I am organising (should there be sufficient interest) a row/kayak to Shipwrights Point on Thursday 1 Jan, for a New Year picnic. Depart Franklin 11am on Imagine, Swiftsure (subject to availability of experienced cox), Grebes……. Safety boat will accompany. Slower kayaks not wanting to paddle the whole distance can launch at Shipwrights Point and paddle upriver to meet and greet us. First respondents get choice of boat. BYO picnic lunch, drinks plus $5 LBT rowing fee.’ Phone or email Barb Dawson, 62663571, barbara.dawson@bigpond.com Pic from Nell Tyson
Posted Dec 28, 2014, 2:50 AM by Unknown user
NO LBT dinner Monday 29th DecemberIf you are headed for dinner at the LBT on the last Monday in December you should stop and turn around: the cooks are on holiday. We aren’t sure what Jilly Archer has on the menu for us on January 5th, but we are sure it is worth waiting for.
Posted Dec 28, 2014, 2:39 AM by Unknown user
Christmas party at the LBT: reminder Short details: 6pm at the shed, Monday night; bring drink, a plate to share, and (if you are so inclined) meat to put on the barbecue; looks like it will be a mild dry evening; be prepared to contribute to the evening’s music.
Posted Dec 21, 2014, 5:59 PM by Unknown user
The Homecoming PassageThe ‘mini raid’, returning from the Australian Wooden Boat Festival to join the St Ayles Skiff Regatta at Franklin, is now open for bookings: complete the form at http://bit.ly/1v6Zts6 ‘This is a ‘Tawe Nunnugah Lite’, with no fees, but with little of the infrastructure and support of a real Tawe Nunnugah Raid: participants are expected to be largely self sufficient. They still get to do all the important stuff – cruising the beautiful inshore waters of the D’Entrecasteaux Channel and the Huon in good company (both on and off the water), but they have to throw their own snag on the barby in the evening. ‘See http://bit.ly/1zyKa0n for further details.
Posted Dec 20, 2014, 6:26 PM by Unknown user
Can’t beat them skiffiesWhether it’s fund raising or getting the word out, the team are doing a great job on organising and promoting the St Ayles Skiff Regatta. The article below is from the Mercury, December 20th. To keep up with the latest see tasskiffie2015.org.
Posted Dec 20, 2014, 3:04 PM by Unknown user
A Christmas row to HuonvilleFrom Barbara Dawson: ‘The Huon River was at its magical best on Saturday night when Swiftsure, Imagine, Rowan, Willy’s rowboat plus 3 kayaks surged up on a flooding tide to the Boat Shed Cafe. Drive in McDonalds are so passé – but how many cafes offer a float-in facility. The colours and reflections on the return voyage were really special. There is even talk of making this a regular trip. Many thanks to Warren and Aspen for providing safety boat cover.’
Posted Dec 21, 2014, 2:32 AM by Unknown user
‘Huon, huon, huon for Franklin!’Would Norman May have been able to adapt to the special medals for the St Ayles Skiff regatta? First past the finish line gets a huon pine medal, second a myrtle and third a celery pine. In the pic below Dennis Muscovitch is holds a myrtle plank donated by Roger Linnell as raw material. Dennis and Phil Dunning have been working on a brand that will be used to stamp out the design on the wood.
Posted Dec 18, 2014, 9:53 PM by Unknown user
Get your 40 Degrees South MagazineThere is an article by John Young, ‘Franklin Reborn’, illustrated with some of Nell Tyson’s wonderful photographs. Thanks to Willis for spotting this one.
Posted Dec 20, 2014, 3:05 PM by Unknown user
Latest AWBF NewsletterRead all about it from the Australian Wooden Boat Festival: see http://bit.ly/1sNaWmt Includes a nice little article about our very own WOW, but lots more too.
Posted Dec 18, 2014, 8:38 PM by Unknown user
St Ayles Skiff Regatta Program (8th-15th Feb 2015)Jane Johnson has sent the latest draft version. Should be of particular interest to those who participated in the Swiftsure Regatta, and are no doubt waiting for another opportunity to demonstrate their rowing prowess. See http://bit.ly/1rGqF60
Posted Jan 1, 2015, 12:56 PM by Unknown user
The orange boxFor years the ‘yellow box’ has been an institution at the LBT shed: a place to leave small amounts of cash and other communications for the treasurer. Naturally the secretary was jealous, so there is now a complementary ‘orange box’ hanging outside the front door for communications with him. It sits directly beside the pocket holding the ‘expression of interest’ forms (which are on the back of the information sheets), so its first job will be to collect those. But it is also there for any other bits and bobs that should be directed to the secretary – feel free to use it for that purpose. And thanks to Peter the Painter for that glowing colour.
Posted Dec 17, 2014, 1:19 AM by Unknown user
The ukes have landedRos Barnett plans for these to be a major part of entertainment on tawe nunnugah: expertise should be at a level sufficient to play a Beethoven Symphony by the time the fleet reaches Hobart. Before that, get set for some plunking at the Christmas Party (next Monday 22nd, 6pm on (or whenever you arrive).
Posted Dec 16, 2014, 12:59 PM by Unknown user
The ‘Rubena’Peter Heading pointed to this ABC news story: ‘In a clearly well-practised routine, Wayne Brydges explains the history behind The Rubeena, a 36-foot Pittwater style ferry that was built in 1911 and is now used to take people on heritage tours from the Port of Sale in Gippsland.’ Looks similar to the ‘Nancy‘, and what we might do with her. They even have a canal, curse them. Read all about it at http://ab.co/1zYCyW1
Posted Dec 15, 2014, 2:05 PM by Unknown user
Crew wanted for Grebe, Thursday 18thThe original request was for Swiftsure, but this has been downgraded to a Grebeas part of a film shoot at Taroona. Transport has been organised, but a rower is needed, perhaps of convict appearance. You know who you are – a couple of suspects are pictured below.More from Annie Venables who is organising this. “I can offer undying fame (if not fortune). The shot will most likely be the poster shot for the documentary series being shown on the ABC, Ireland and Wales…we will be … offering up breakfast and probably lunch…whatever is authentic to man the boat, but around 2 men (or women dressed as men, we won’t really see – we could perhaps recruit from St …
Posted Dec 15, 2014, 1:41 PM by Unknown user
Bring the Romance back to Rowing – Sat 20th DecFrom David Budd and Barbara Dawson: ‘Mid-summer twilight row/paddle from Franklin to Huonville (Boatshed Cafe) and back (mostly with tide assistance). Invite going out to all LBT members, WOW women + any non-powered boating friends. The idea is to get Imagine, Swiftsure, Grebes and any private row or paddle boats to Huonville and back. Float-in for take away fish and chips from Boatshed Cafe before it closes at 8pm (will let them know numbers ahead of time). Leave Franklin at 5.30pm sharp – the sunset is 8.46pm, the high tide around 8.30pm. Rowan to accompany the fleet and if necessary tow any stragglers, wimps and those who have overindulged in chips back home. Need qualified …
Posted Dec 13, 2014, 1:44 PM by Unknown user
Circumnavigation of Tassie Feb 11 – March 18 2015Bryan Walpole, with “Merlyn”, an 11m couta boat, has some crewing vacancies for the trip anticlockwise around Tassie, mostly from the Tamar round the west coast to Hobart. A wonderful opportunity to see the western coastline, Hunter group of islands, and some magic anchorages, including the Gordon River, and Port Davey. You will need to have basic seamanship and some navigation skills, preferably experienced too. Contact Bryan on 03 6224 8815 or bwalpole@iinet.net.au or go to www.ryct.org.au/cruising to see the details.
Posted Dec 12, 2014, 11:58 PM by Unknown user
WOOBers wantedThat would be Workers On Organic Boats. We need to get a wriggle on if the Bendigo St Ayles Skiff is to be completed in time for the Championships in February. To this end Graham Rankin will be running the first of what we hope will be a series of extra work days this coming Thursday (18th). The project (see http://bit.ly/1kou8wx for details) is going really well, and it should be a pleasure to be a part of it, so turn up on Thursday morning after 10am and speak to Graham.If we don’t get there in time it will make a really flash snack bar: see http://bit.ly/1wtO5dP
Posted Dec 16, 2014, 1:30 AM by Unknown user
On the water program winds upThe Franklin students took the fleet out for a final sail on Wednesday at the conclusion of a very busy six weeks of activities. There have been school crews out on the water being supervised by LBT volunteers for at least two days a week for the last six weeks. Given the vagaries caused by weather, sickness, forgetfulness and the general happy mayhem you can expect around children it’s taken a lot of organising. That task fell on the broad shoulders of David Budd. Thank you David.
Posted Dec 11, 2014, 5:57 PM by Unknown user
Warrnambool Skiff underwayPatrick Groot writes to tell us that, after the usual amount of time spent head scratching and standing around with hands in pockets arguing the toss, their team has made a start on the construction of a new St Ayles Skiff: ‘A good couple of hours work today saw the strongback up and moulds tagged and cut out ready to be set up next Saturday. Feels good to be actually making something finally.’ See the attached flyer or their Facebook page to find out what they are up to: https://www.facebook.com/st.aylesskiffwarrnambool. Hopefully they will be down for Tasskiffie2017.
Posted Dec 12, 2014, 7:24 PM by Unknown user
Our new rowing uniform?We were down at the pontoon yesterday and were very taken with the fashion sense shown by Southerly Dolling’s dad Ken. The combination of Hawaiian shorts, stripes, orange and yellow life vest, blue espadrilles, white canvas hat and sunglasses should be an inspiration to us all, although maybe we couldn’t carry it off the way Ken does.
Posted Dec 10, 2014, 3:26 AM by Unknown user
More Swiftsure Regatta pics coming inThere are some beauties – see http://bit.ly/1wVjfxq . We reckon the crew in the photo below are lay down misère for parts in the next ‘Pirates of the Caribbean’.
Posted Dec 9, 2014, 12:52 AM by Unknown user
Cocktails and Canapés on Yukon19th December 6.30pm to 9.30 pm. Live Music, with Roman Astra and Co. $25 a ticket , the numbers are limited so please contact Endra for a Ticket. Tickets are going fast: contact Endra: endra2012@hotmail.com
Posted Dec 13, 2014, 4:45 PM by Unknown user
Half finished projectsNext time we run out of puff on a boat build maybe we can take up the suggestion indicated by Shane Johnson in the picture below (spotted in Fremantle).
Posted Dec 7, 2014, 7:44 PM by Unknown user
Christmas at the LBT, Monday 22nd DecemberA bring your own food, fun, music and bottle party. Normal working bee cancelled. From 6pm, or whenever you arrive. Same as last year: it was good then it will be good again.
Posted Dec 7, 2014, 1:52 PM by Unknown user
Swiftsure Regatta DayThe Franklin waterfront was alive with people participating in the rowing and sailing events on Sunday. Thanks to all who helped, but especially Hans Sipsma who organised us, and Ros Barnett who fed us. Congratulations to the Dover team, who won the Grebes competition, and LBT Old Boys, who won the St Ayles Skiff competition.For more, see the pics below from Aspen and Annette Cauchi, Jane Johnson and Laurence Burgin. See also the attached from Jane: http://bit.ly/1w3oOIt
Posted Dec 13, 2014, 2:30 AM by Unknown user
Anchor bouldersPhil Dunning suggested these, when the (outrageous) proposition that his monster grinding wheel be used as a mooring was put to him. Finding a boulder around Franklin is not an issue, but attaching something to it so that it can be useful is. Laurence Burgin from Franklin Marine came up with the solution: a length of chain, some marina bolts, a pot of epoxy and a VERY big drill. Thanks Laurence.
Posted Dec 5, 2014, 4:45 PM by Unknown user
Tawe Nunnugah saloon classDavid Nash writes to remind us that there are still berths available on Yukon: THREE NIGHT Legs Available You can either book to join the entire event (10 days) or to one of the legs: • Wed Jan 28th (Franklin) – Sat Jan 31st (Southport), 3 nights, 4 days; • Sat Jan 31st (Southport) – Tue Feb 4th, (Allonah, Bruny Island), 3 nights, 4 days; • Tue Feb 4th, (Allonah, Bruny Island) – Fri Feb 6th (Constitution Dock, Hobart), 3 nights, 4 days. For details see the attached flyer: http://bit.ly/1IaHEm4 . For those who like to sail more comfortably, or whose days hanging off an oar (or sheet) are behind them, this is an excellent way to participate in Tawe Nunnugah.
Posted Dec 5, 2014, 9:56 PM by Unknown user
An invitationHere is a chance to spend some time with the local teachers and children who have been coming down for the On the Water program. Wednesday 10th December, 10.45am, at the Franklin Primary School. See below for more details.
Posted Dec 5, 2014, 12:35 PM by Unknown user
Swiftsure Regatta: schedules of eventsFrom Hans Sipsma:See the schedule of St Ayles Skiff events at http://bit.ly/1pXaro9 , Grebe events at http://bit.ly/1rUvklh , and big boats http://bit.ly/1rVghaR . See the the Swiftsure Regatta web page for everything about the event.‘Ahoy, me Hearties! Please tell me if I have missed somebody or included teams that do not exist, it is confusing when you have information coming from different directions. There is enough time to have the heats at half hourly intervals instead of 20 minute ones. It will be easier to run the school Grebe races in between. Please send this information to all your team members and any other participants I do not have contact details for …
Posted Dec 4, 2014, 12:27 PM by Unknown user
The mysterious ‘Peter the Painter’Whenever anybody compliments some painting around the LBT, be it a sign, a boat, the shed itself or anything else that can be daubed on, the standard response is ‘Peter the Painter did that’. It’s become an expression, like ‘Foo was here’. Glynn Shevels was commissioned to get a photograph, just to confirm that Peter does exist. He managed a back view.
Posted Dec 2, 2014, 6:33 PM by Unknown user
Raising the barStreet signs advertising LBT events consist, as often as not, of a message hastily scrawled in Texta on chipboard by the secretary. Hans Sipsma shows what can be done.
Posted Dec 2, 2014, 1:47 PM by Unknown user
Tawe Nunnugah TrailerDavid Perez made a video of the 2007 Raid which captured the spirit of the expedition as well as anything since produced. A ‘trailer’ has recently been cut and put on YouTube: see below (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eLTbHd8A1Sw). If you are wondering what ‘tawe nunnugah’ really means this is as good a way as any to find out. Thanks to Ben Forster for the editing work. For more about tawe nunnugah 2015 see the webpage: tn15.org
Posted Nov 29, 2014, 2:45 PM by Unknown user
Wanted: a length of heavy chainDONE!! Thanks to those who offered and who brought chain along on Monday night. We made a selection, and the job is now done. It would be advantageous to be able to swing our pontoon around to provide more points for tying up boats during regattas etc. To do this we need an extra anchor point with a heavy attachment chain. Three metres would do the job. Anybody have said tripping people up outside the back door? if you do contact the secretary: sec@lbt.org.au
Posted Dec 4, 2014, 3:18 AM by Unknown user
Swiftsure Regatta: Final ProgrammeHans Sipsma has us organised (for next Sunday, 7th December): see http://bit.ly/1vz5xwX . ‘We’re mixing it up at this year’s Swiftsure Regatta. It is bigger than ever, with an enthusiastic mob of St Ayles Skiff rowers from various local communities. This will be an opportunity to test the boats for possible improvements before the big St Ayles Skiff Regatta next February. Also new will be the addition of two large, historic rowing craft , the Admiral and La Chaloupe to compare with and challenge our whaleboat, the Swiftsure. This regatta is the culmination of the “On the Water” local schools programme and there will be races to compete for the newly inaugurated “Mrs Dyson Trophy”.’ Please get …
Posted Nov 29, 2014, 1:34 PM by Unknown user
Caterers wanted at Swiftsure RegattaFrom Ros Barnett:‘Friday 5th December 10am – 1pm Food preparation. Two people required to help slice, dice and spice. Sunday 7th December (Regatta Day) People as Cashiers, all day – handle cash desk for catering (a tickets system for the breakfast sausage sizzle and the curry lunch) as well as taking event registrations. Lots of people giving an hour at a time on a roster would be great. Could easily be managed around taking part in events. Two people to help on the breakfast grill, 9am – Noon Two people to serve the curry, Noon – 2:30pm Please email to ros@lbt.org.au if you would like to contribute in the kitchen, or complete the form below (http://bit.ly/1yFuN4W …
Posted Nov 26, 2014, 2:45 AM by Unknown user
Rowing OrdersWith the Swiftsure Regatta coming up it’s important that we belay that landlubber chatter, batten down the binnacle, brail the brass monkey, and so forth. Here is a list of the standard LBT rowing instructions for Swiftsure but appropriate for (or adaptable to) most rowing boats. Step your oars: Place the oar handles in the oar steps on the inside of the bilge of the boat, with the looms in the thole pins or oarlocks. Forward and ready: Rowers lean forwards holding the oar handles and looms, legs straight and braced against stretchers or thwarts aft of them. The blades are held just above the surface of the water.Give way together: Rowers lower their blades into the water …
Posted Nov 26, 2014, 3:02 AM by Unknown user
Christmas present ideaFrom Geoff Heriot: ‘I would be pleased to offer members and friends of the LBT a substantial discount on my nonfiction book In the South: Tales of Sail and Yearning, which has been reviewed favorably by media critics (see the attached flyer: http://bit.ly/1yTdbTe). For example, Cruising Helmsman described it as a ‘classic of Australian sailing literature’. The RRP is $29.95 but I could offer it to your members and friends at $20.00 (a one-third discount). The conditions would be as follows: For those ordering books in time, I could deliver them to the LBT in Franklin on an agreed date, avoiding postage charges; Otherwise I would need to add postage ($12.00 for an …
Posted Nov 25, 2014, 12:26 PM by Unknown user
Canadian Canoe ProjectFrom Simon Cash:‘I spoke to you a week or so ago now about a strongback and western red cedar strips that i have to make a Canadian Canoe (approx 15′ long). I am never going to complete this project past the stage that it is at now and as such would like to sell it. Would you have any suggestions about how i might best go about this? I am thinking that i would look for somewhere in the vicinity of $1200 ONO.’ Contact Simon simon.cash66@icloud.com
Posted Nov 25, 2014, 11:50 AM by Unknown user
Excursion to Incat MuseumFrom Graeme Hunt of the Wooden Boat Guild of Tasmania: ‘Any members of the LBT who are not at the Swiftsure Regatta on Sunday 7th December would be most welcome to join the WBGT at their visit to the Incat Museum at Prince of Wales Bay. The volunteers who look after the Museum will open it at 10am and interested parties will be admitted for the cost of a Gold Coin. The Museum contains memorabilia from the success of this iconic Tasmanian business including a Hales Trophy replica and the wonderful Huon Pine Couta Boat Darce. Visitors are welcome to join the Guild at their annual BYO Christmas lunch at the Prince of Wales Bay Marina after the visit
Posted Nov 25, 2014, 11:18 AM by Unknown user
Swiftsure Regatta, Sunday December 7thThe Regatta is now only two weeks away. Are you in a rowing team? You should be. To sign up for a team and to find out more about the day check out the regatta page: http://bit.ly/110bMPq. If you are able to help out use the sheet below to sign up (http://bit.ly/1yFuN4W).
Posted Nov 22, 2014, 7:10 PM by Unknown user
Back to the future at WarrnamboolThe group there have just broken out the first of their two St Ayles Skiff flatpacks, and are contemplating how best to set up a workspace. Here is part of an email from Patrick Groot: ‘Our fund raising and subsequent Expo to launch our endeavour has resulted in massive interest. Having the 2 completed ‘main land’ skiffs on our Civic Green really got people excited. A Portland group are near certainties to undertake a build and a Port Fairy group look like following suit. And we are close to having enough funds left over to even consider a third build for later in 2015. That might see 5 boats by late 2015 into 2016 in the SW of Victoria. This …
Posted Nov 22, 2014, 2:16 PM by Unknown user
Reminder: safety boat course Saturday 29th NovemberFrom Glynn Shevels:‘Course starts at 10.00am till approximately 3-30pm.. cost $25.00 . What to bring.. pen notepad. . Lunch and life jacket . The course will consist of theory and practical exercise on the water. It will cover all aspects of being a safety boat operater for Living Boat Trust onwater activities. Please phone or email to book a spot. There are 3 spots left. Glynn Shevels 0419341493 or gshevels@gmail.com‘This is a week before Swiftsure Regatta, which will be a good opportunity to get out on the water and practice the skills learned at the course. Pic from last year’s course.
Posted Nov 21, 2014, 7:07 PM by Unknown user
LBT’ers at largeDavid Pittaway is further afield than most. He is currently in West Africa working in an Ebola clinic. See the ABC report: http://ab.co/1tnvVFS
Posted Nov 21, 2014, 11:44 PM by Unknown user
News from the Australian Wooden Boat FestivalGet your latest newsletter from http://bit.ly/1xHm9pn . The AWBF is coming up fast, and there is a plug for our St Ayles Skiff Regatta in the editorial. In this issue, we’ll scan some of the exciting work that’s going on in boat sheds around Tasmania, we’ll look at a veryspecial co-production with the Port Arthur Historic Site and bring you news of a brilliant community projectunderway to build a new pontoon for the AWBF. There’s a review of the adventure sailing passages available aboardour feature vessels, including James Craig, Enterprize, Windeward Bound and Bark Endeavour, and there are localcruises, too, with Rhona H, Lady Nelson and Yukon. Registrations are …
Posted Nov 21, 2014, 2:08 PM by Unknown user
Tawe Nunnugah and ukesYep, ukes not nukes. Ros Barnett is organising the musical entertainment for Tawe Nunnugah – see http://bit.ly/1xHkhwZ
Posted Nov 20, 2014, 1:02 PM by Unknown user
Girl Guides on the waterFrom Ros Barnett: ‘Girl Guides came to the Living Boat Trust this week for an after school adventure. With the four tallest girls in the St Ayles skiff Imagine, three groups in Grebe dinghies, and a few tiny tots in Rowan with the safety crew, we set off to explore the Huon River and the Egg Islands Canal. There was such a lot to learn. In our boat we talked about all the forces that were moving the boat; the river flowing out to the sea, the tide coming in, the light breeze, and the oars dipping in the water and pushing against it. “What is a canal?” I’ve never been asked that before, but it is an obvious …
Posted Nov 20, 2014, 12:43 PM by Unknown user
Franklin’s Future- Planning and DevelopmentThe Franklin Progress Association is organising a public meeting about “Franklin’s Future- Planning and Development”, in the Palais Theatre; at 7pm on Wednesday 26 November. ‘The aim of the meeting is to establish a group to be a voice for the community on matters to do with planning, development and streetscape enhancements for Franklin. We hope to include representatives from Franklin Working Water Front Inc., the Living Boat Trust, the Friends of St Johns Inc., Franklin Traders, other community organisations and sporting groups in Franklin and, of course, the general community.‘For details see the attached: http://bit.ly/1Ageuzz
Posted Nov 19, 2014, 1:10 PM by Unknown user
Oh what a (Monday) nightIan Johnson summed it up for the rest of us at announcement time: we get blasé about our blessing down here in Tasmania, but who could be blasé sitting in the shed amongst friends, new and old, with a repaste before us, the viking form of the Bendigo Skiff as a backdrop and having launched two beautiful wooden boats? Bob Hawkins photographs below illustrate some of the highlights of a very busy evening:the turning of the Skiff; the launching of the newly donated dinghy Punto; the launching of recently completed Syrah; a serenade from the kitchen crew trio. What made the evening especially memorable was that the presence of so many people, not necessarily LBT members, who have contributed …
Posted Nov 19, 2014, 1:15 PM by Unknown user
Showing off ‘Imagine’ at the Huon ShowShe did look great and got a lot of attention, particularly from extra terrestrials. Pics from Annette Cauchi, Liz Larshall and Ken Chiu
Posted Nov 21, 2014, 2:57 AM by Unknown user
Motor Boat License CourseFrom Glynn Shevels: ‘A great day with 13 people attending. Everybody passed.’ And the LBT received a very nice donation from the instructors – Glynn and Colin Stokes. Thank you!
Posted Nov 18, 2014, 1:01 PM by Unknown user
To those lucky few …Did you make the cut for the Celebration Dinner at the Shed on Monday night? You can check below. Here is the programme: proceedings to get underway at 6.30pm with the turning of the Bendigo Skiff; thence to the launch of ‘Syrah’; followed by the a ‘welcome to fleet’ for ‘Punto’; and dinner at around 7.30. Or something like that. Items to be added or subtracted at the whim of the cook and the committee.
Posted Nov 14, 2014, 11:58 PM by Unknown user
Bendigo Skiff nearly ready for turnoverThe Bendigo Skiff team spent Wednesday first with sandpaper then with paintbrush in hand getting an initial coat of epoxy on the boat. It’s made a big difference – the ply positively glows. For more pics see http://bit.ly/1tNS3ZM , for all the Skiff news go the the Boats menu, then choose ‘Bendigo Skiff’ (http://bit.ly/1kou8wx)
Posted Nov 13, 2014, 4:11 PM by Unknown user
King Neptune in NeopreneJane Johnson writes: ‘King Neptune emerged from the wild windswept waters in front of Taroona High School promoting the virtues of a Neoprene covering – and endorsing the latest St Ayles Skiff to be built in Tasmania. ‘ To read more about the launch of the Taroona St Ayles Skiff see http://bit.ly/1sqNrZf
Posted Nov 10, 2014, 2:50 AM by Unknown user
CARTELA’s Fashion through the DecadesFrom Jane Johnson: ‘The 1912 Cartela was in the limelight on Sunday with a fashion parade that covered most of the ten decades that the steamship has provided a passenger service around Tasmania. The show was organised by Shop@Franklin and included a high tea as a fundraising gesture for the Franklin St Ayles Skiff Regatta.’ For more pics and news about the event see the Tasskiffie2015 news: http://bit.ly/1pGKAB3
Posted Nov 9, 2014, 8:48 PM by Unknown user
Former ‘Tawe Nunnugah’ boat for saleGraeme Denne writes: ‘My traditional sailing dinghy ‘Ambitious’ is for sale. She is 14’6” long, strongly built and in excellent condition, complete with new sail, trailer and o/b motor (optional) – further details contact Graeme Denne 0431845786.’ Price is $3,200, negotiable.
Posted Nov 9, 2014, 1:54 PM by Unknown user
Model Boat FleetThe surprise big sellers at the last Australian Wooden Boat Festival were simple, wooden, model boats made from local timbers. The Tuesday group have made a good start on stocking up for next February – all assistance gratefully accepted.
Posted Nov 8, 2014, 11:19 PM by Unknown user
New Brooke Street Pier has arrivedIt’s a ‘floater’ and it was towed down the Derwent from the construction site at Prince of Wales Bay to it’s location next to Waterman’s Dock today (Sunday 9th). Maybe we will get back our usual Wooden Boat Festival site next to it if all goes according to Hoyle. Get the full story on the ABC: http://ab.co/1xhyazj
Posted Nov 8, 2014, 10:19 PM by Unknown user
Huon Show November 15thIt’s one of the highlights of the Valley calendar and the LBT will be there – see http://huonshow.com.au. If you can help out submit your name on the form below (http://bit.ly/1zb9hFV), or speak to Graeme Rankin.
Posted Nov 8, 2014, 9:22 PM by Unknown user
Viking turns orangeAngela turned a pressure jet on the bottom sides of Viking to strip off the flaking blue paint and reveal the orange (red lead?) undercoat underneath. Thanks to Franklin Marine for lending us the equipment. Picture Glynn Shevels
Posted Nov 8, 2014, 6:35 PM by Unknown user
Public Meetings: Surges Point “transport depot” proposalBob Hawkins writes: ‘I think everyone at LBT should be reading about the Surges Point “transport depot” proposal. It could have a huge effect on sailors, rowers and power-boaters. I’m also wondering if all the sailing clubs in the region know about it. I’m sure LBT members will get the message out. My impression is that council will be dealing with the re-zoning required at its next meeting. See notices below (http://bit.ly/1vERAuu).’ Bob obviously has a view on this: to have yours heard head along to the meeting.
Posted Nov 4, 2014, 1:49 PM by Unknown user
Scottish Fun Day at Port Cygnet Sailing ClubSaturday, 8th November 3-9pm Port Cygnet Sailing Club Scottish dinner at 6pm Main course – $10 (family $25), Dessert $5 (includes haggis, black pudding, skirlie, sausage and vegetarian option) Bar open 5-10pm Bring friends, family …….Rowing, Games, Food and Drink! Celebrate Cygnet’s St Ayles skiff and all things Scottish Have a go at rowing the skiffs, with games for young and old, bagpipes, locally-made haggis and other Scottish delights . . . Fundraiser for the International St Ayles Skiff Regatta to be held at Franklin next February
Posted Nov 4, 2014, 1:34 PM by Unknown user
Quadruple Celebration DinnerBOOKED OUT The Living Boat Trust will generally use any excuse for a feast, but we’ve got some REALLY good ‘uns for making Monday night the 17th of November a red letter dinner: * the Bendigo Skiff will be turned over; * Syrah will be launched; * the Bern Cuthbertson dinghy ‘Punto’ will be welcomed to the LBT fleet; * the gremlins in Nancy’s electricals will be farewelled. We will be inviting along sponsors and supporters who have made all this possible, that Princess of Posh Nosh Jilly Archer will be cooking, and entertainment is being organised. We hope to see a big crowd, but there is a cap of 50 people. Sign up below (http://bit.ly/1wSQtNs) or at the …
Posted Nov 12, 2014, 7:32 PM by Unknown user
Tassie Men’s Shed AssociationWe are members of the Association, and this week received the attached letter (http://bit.ly/1rIxEEP) from them which describes their inaugural committee meeting. A group from WOW recently visited the Dover shed for the launch of La Chaloupe, and we hope to be cooperating with other neighbouring sheds in the near future. The Association is also distributing grant money, and we have our fingers crossed that Graham Rankin’s application for some of this will succeed.
Posted Nov 1, 2014, 2:22 AM by Unknown user
Spring Bay Community Boat Shed NewsletterFor the latest from our friends at Spring Bay (Triabunna) see http://bit.ly/1wmakmM
Posted Oct 31, 2014, 7:31 PM by Unknown user
Notice to Mariners (MAST)Notice No.: M111-14 Title: Marine Farming Lease – Flathead Bay Valid From: 31/10/2014 Valid Until: 1/3/2015 Mariners are advised that Huon Aquaculture will commence work on Monday, 3 November at Flathead Bay at the mouth of the Huon River. The work involves re-marking the amended lease area and the bathing lease in-shore which will be in place until the end of February 2015. Four corner marks will deployed on the amended lease area as follows: 1. 43 degrees 17.1047’ 147 degrees 7.07274’ 2. 43 degrees 17.6076’ 147 degrees 7.07364’ 3. 43 degrees 17.6082’ 147 degrees 6.48138’ 4. 43 degrees 17.1053’ 147 degrees 6.48048’ These marks will …
Posted Oct 31, 2014, 6:27 PM by Unknown user
The Shipping NewsAt 2:21pm this Friday afternoon ‘Yukon’ docked in Franklin having returned from a successful trip to Sydney. It’s great to have her back – the marina has seemed empty without her.
Posted Oct 31, 2014, 6:07 AM by Unknown user
Empty NestThey tell us it is a problem in some families, but not at the LBT. No sooner had Glynn Shevels’ ‘Tuesday’ vacated the premises, than Imagine was in for a spot of attention.
Posted Oct 31, 2014, 5:32 AM by Unknown user
‘Tuesday’ comes outNo, don’t expect to see the Tuesday chaps in pink frilly lingerie. Glynn announced today that the name of the Sea Knight is ‘Tuesday’, and she is now out of the shed. Congratulations to Glynn and all those who have contributed to the boat: she is going to be great. For more pics go to the ‘Workshop’ page, or directly to http://bit.ly/1wHkRaY Pic from Graham Wright
Posted Oct 30, 2014, 1:31 PM by Unknown user
Red letter day at the shed tomorrow (Thursday)Graham Wright tells us, in the ‘Workshop’ news column (see http://bit.ly/1FGhUMX), that the Sea Knight is coming out of the shed! Final fit out will be at Glynn’s place and at Channel Marine. There will be a formal launch when all that has been complete.
Posted Oct 29, 2014, 4:00 AM by Unknown user
Ode to the HuonFrom Jane Johnson: ‘Last weekend the small town of Franklin was a vibrant hub of activity. Centred around the Wooden Boat Centre’s handing-over ceremony to the Franklin Working Waterfront, the Huon River was again the focus of the town’s future. Nearby at the Living Boat Trust, a garage sale complete with food and music added to the activity that is gathering momentum for the International St Ayles Skiff Regatta to be held in Franklin in February 2015. To provide opportunities for more people to be involved with these community-building activities, free “Come ‘N Try” rowing sessions will be held for parents of primary-school children throughout November. Franklin Primary School-parents are first off with a …
Posted Oct 28, 2014, 4:08 AM by Unknown user
A new guest at dinner‘He’ (gender is not certain) was skulking around the back trying not to be noticed, but that ace snapper Graham Rankin caught him on film. As Graham writes ‘some said the food was dalektable’.
Posted Oct 28, 2014, 4:08 AM by Unknown user
Whaleboat watchSpotted in the Hopkins River at Warrnambool: the five oar New Bedford whaleboat pictured below. Of course it’s not as beautiful as our Swiftsure but one has to admit that Proudfoot’s Boathouse where it ties up is special. Patrick Groot and Larry Abrahams from the Warrnambool St Ayles Skiff Community Rowing Club tell us that they have a small fleet of these boats which come together for the Australian Whaleboat Championships in February. See the Facebook page at http://on.fb.me/1DVGyY9
Posted Oct 28, 2014, 3:01 AM by Unknown user
Reminder: Celebration at the Wooden Boat Centre this Saturday (25th October)It is the handover to the Franklin Working Waterfront. Program 10:00 Welcome– Daryl Peebles MC; 10:10 Handover ceremony of the Australian Wooden Boat Centre to Franklin Working Waterfront Association; 10:35 Presentation : Dr Graham Green – Founder Timber Workers for Forests; 11:00 Myrtle timber to auctioned minutes; 11:30 Auction of Myrtle Timber; 12:15 Presentation by Vaughn Bones (architect); 1:40 Lunch; 2:00 Open House. Detailed program: http://bit.ly/1yfws44 . Photo by Ralph Cruickshank
Posted Oct 23, 2014, 12:39 PM by Unknown user
Reminder: Garage Sale this Saturday (25th October)This event in aid of the St Ayles Skiff Regatta: ‘Set up will be from 8am. As well as the garage sale we will have a cake stall and again, all donations will be gratefully received. If you cannot drop off goodies on Saturday morning, then Friday at rowing will be OK as long as the sugar hit will keep well. Cakes need to have a list of ingredients on the packaging somewhere – would also add a date. Anything unsold can be donated to the quiz night.’
Posted Oct 23, 2014, 7:50 PM by Unknown user
New LBT flyerWe need to explain the LBT to visitors, sponsors, applicants for membership etc, and new flyer has been created to assist with this: see http://bit.ly/1FGjCOu . To see it in its full glory hit the little ‘print’ icon and it will download as a pdf. Any suggestions gratefully received by the secretary: sec@lbt.org.au
Posted Oct 22, 2014, 10:41 PM by Unknown user
The workshop gets its own news columnWith the Sea Knight about to leave the workshop it occurred to us that we didn’t have a very good record of the build. This lack has been highlighted by the wonderful record for the Bendigo Skiff build being created by posts from Peter Heading and Graham Rankin with pics from various contributors (http://bit.ly/1kou8wx). You only have to scroll down to see the planks going on week by week. So now the workshop has a news column where we will hopefully be able to keep a much more detailed history of activities there than we have in the past: just click on the ‘Workshop’ icon on the LBT homepage to see it, and if you are …
Posted Oct 22, 2014, 10:30 PM by Unknown user
Quiz NightPalais Theatre Supper Room Saturday 25th October 2014 6.30 pm for 7.00 start $10 per head includes nibbles Max 6 people per table – orphans accommodated Drinks available for purchase Contact Kerryn on 0419 163 443 for bookings
Posted Oct 23, 2014, 12:31 PM by Unknown user
Committee MinutesDraft committee minutes for October have been written and are available at http://bit.ly/1vyGPhh
Posted Oct 19, 2014, 2:59 PM by Unknown user
Readvertising Motor and Safety Boat CoursesNote the change of date for the motor boat course, due to clashes with other activities. MotorBoat Licence CourseDate: Sunday 16th November; Duration: One day; Cost: $100.00 plus $50.00 for MAST licence; Instructor: Colin Stokes assisted by Glynn Shevels; If more than 6 people there will be a donation made to the LBT. LBT Safety Boat Course: Date: 29th November; TIme: 10am – 3pm; Cost: $25-00. Expressions of interest to Glynn Shevels, gshevels@gmail.com or 0419 341493. Alternatively complete the form at http://bit.ly/1ondIH6HEAR ALL ABOUT IT AT http://bit.ly/1pw1e0o
Posted Oct 20, 2014, 10:55 PM by Unknown user
Visit the Franklin Navy Museum (while you can)Brian Morrison’s museum (in the old bank building next to the Post Office) has been closed for so long that many people have forgotten it is there. It is open again, but for a limited time as Brian tells us he is selling up and moving on. This is much to Franklin’s cost, as it is an extraordinary collection. Don’t miss out! There are more details on the flyer below.
Posted Oct 16, 2014, 3:22 PM by Unknown user
Huon Yacht ClubWe bumped into LBT member Doug Emery, who told us he is looking after the website for the Huon Yacht Club – http://huonyachtclub.org/. It is another good source of boaty information for the valley and worth bookmarking.
Posted Oct 15, 2014, 7:30 PM by Unknown user
The never ending projectIt doesn’t seem so long ago that all that paint was going on, and now Brett and Allan are taking it off! It’s all in a good cause: ‘Gretchen’ needs to be re-ribbed and fibre-glassed if she is ever going to be watertight, and this is the first step.
Posted Oct 15, 2014, 7:33 PM by Unknown user
AWBF latest newsletterStraight from the Australian Wooden Boat Festival to you: see http://bit.ly/ZoZLSB . The months to February are rapidly counting down.
Posted Oct 13, 2014, 5:49 PM by Unknown user
Cartela glows in birthday glory – but wait, there is moreFrom Jane Johnson: ‘The Cartela was the focus of fundraising for the St Ayles Skiff Regatta in Franklin. Decorations, shining lights, a deck full of people overlooking the scenic Huon River and “Huonvibe” Jazz aboard the 1912 Battery Point-built steamship, made the evening a memorable one for all. To celebrate the one hundred and second birthday – the same age as the Palais in Franklin – people joined in to sing and toast a fine wooden boat. Next month a retro/vintage fashion show and high tea on board will give people the chance to experience past decades – so mark Sunday, November 9 from 2-4pm a “must-do” on board the Cartela in Franklin, another fundraiser for the International St …
Posted Oct 17, 2014, 1:07 AM by Unknown user
Warrnambool Flagstaff HillJohn Walduck has sent this reprise to a previous story posted by Barbara Dawson: ‘Some time ago you circulated a photo of a “Cartela” look-alike at the Maritime Village at Flagstaff Hill in Warnambool, Victoria. I have been there today and enclose 2 photos of the vessel. She is the “Rowitta”, and was registered in Launceston at some stage of her career (see photo 2). She does bear a resemblance to “Cartela”, especially her paint scheme, but is a smaller vessel and goes not have the canoe stern. She is in a terrible state of repair – I suspect she is sitting on the bottom of the pond in the photos as I doubt that she could remain afloat. I …
Posted Oct 13, 2014, 3:20 PM by Unknown user
Yukon newsDavid Nash’s story is that he is marooned in Sydney whilst a propeller shaft bearing is repaired, and he is sticking to it. There are various videos of what he has been up to at http://eastcoastodyssey.wildiaries.com/ . An oldie (but a goodie) on the same site is of the trip Yukon did last summer to Port Davey: see http://bit.ly/1CbjsKq
Posted Oct 12, 2014, 9:37 PM by Richard Forster
Nancy: Some bad news, some goodHaving spent 4 solid days trying to upgrade Nancy’s electronics Brian Marriot, Peter Heading and Martin Krynen finally had to give it best on Sunday evening and adjoin for a wake. They look suitably chastened. On several occasions success seemed to be within touching distance, and maybe still is, but for the moment Nancy is going nowhere. We will be postponing our Seniors Week events. On a much brighter note we received the following message from Gwyn Alway at MAST: ‘Thank you everyone for your work with the safety management plan, the result certainly addresses the areas I had concerns with and picks up on the conditions listed in the AMSA exemption and the NSCV Part E. I will …
Posted Oct 12, 2014, 2:53 PM by Unknown user
On the Water programFrom David Budd: OWP is starting this Wednesday – below are the people who said they were available for the initial October sessions. Will sort out tasks on the day, on and off the water. Most schools will be bringing helpers of their own.Wed 15 October 9.30 – 14.30 Huonville primary school: Safety boat – Endra + ??; Helpers – Barbara Dawson, Ros Barnett, Brian Walpole, Richard Foster, David Budd. Wed 22 October 9.30 – 14.30 Huonville primary school: Safety boat – Endra + John Walduck; Helpers – Barbara Dawson, Ros Barnett, Brian Walpole, Richard Foster, David Budd. Monday 27 October 9.30 – 14.30 Huonville primary school: Safety boat – Endra + Tess; Helpers – Barbara Dawson, Ros Barnett, Brian Walpole, David Budd. Wed 29 October 10 …
Posted Oct 12, 2014, 2:14 PM by Unknown user
Swiftsure RegattaFrom Ros Barnett:‘Getting kids involved has been a huge part of our purpose ever since the Living Boat Trust started back in 1998. The Franklin Primary School children that built the Rhonda K are adults now, and many of them will have children of their own. The Geeveston teenagers who created Lightwood Bottom are young adults, and the graduates of the first formal On Water Program (OWP) are at college. The hundreds of people who came to the launch of Swiftsure II are ten years older and wiser. I like to imagine that when all the youngsters who have passed through the shed are older they will remember their days with the Trust as real stand outs, and will …
Posted Oct 11, 2014, 7:01 PM by Unknown user
Big day for the Working Waterfront 25th OctoberFrom Kerryn Jackson (secretary):‘Thanks to the generosity of our donors and the ongoing support of members and friends, the Wooden Boat Centre will be officially handed over to the Association on Saturday 25th October. We are planning a day of celebrations and invite you and all members of LBT to join us for one or all of the planned events. Please feel free to circulate the invitation as widely as you see fit – a good crowd would be great.’Program10:00 Welcome– Daryl Peebles MC; 10:10 Handover ceremony of the Australian Wooden Boat Centre to Franklin Working Waterfront Association; 10:35 Presentation : Dr Graham Green – Founder Timber Workers for Forests; 11:00 Myrtle timber to auctioned minutes …
Posted Oct 10, 2014, 2:36 AM by Unknown user
La ChaloupeFrom Barb Dawson and David Budd: ‘No, this [picture] isn’t a remake of Mutiny on the Bounty. A group of WOW women travelled south to Dover today for the launch of La Chaloupe, the boat lovingly restored by the Dover Community Workshop. Note French tricolour colours of the hull – tres jolie!! Many of you LBTers will undoubtedly realise that the signal flags at the bow spell out ‘La Chaloupe’. After speeches from Ron and the sponsors (Huon Aquaculture), the WOW women expertly put the boat through its sea trials. At one stage, they towed a waterskiier organised for the event, but sadly missed capturing this on camera. After consulting my very thick French dictionary, I can confirm that La …
Posted Oct 9, 2014, 9:33 PM by Unknown user
Nancy gets tick of approvalPat Synge, the boat surveyor from Cygnet, inspected Nancy whilst she was on the slip. She passed with flying colours – see his report at http://bit.ly/1o11YPZ . Thanks for helping us with this Pat.
Posted Oct 9, 2014, 4:12 AM by Unknown user
Forget the Sunday night movieWho would want to put up with old repeats and the ads when instead they could be watching the latest sensation ‘Learning to Row a Dinghy’ starring the Cookies, the Nashies and Southerly. Director, cinematographer, and everything else (including Best Boy) is Martin Kell. Congratulations to all concerned. Hollywood awaits.
Posted Oct 12, 2014, 8:59 PM by Unknown user
A job for Monday night?A test we have not yet performed on ‘Nancy‘ is one for stability. The fact that she has spent nearly one hundred years on the water without turning turtle under much more extreme conditions and with much greater loads than we are likely to subject her to says that she is more than safe for our planned operations, but nevertheless the question is being asked. There will be a good crowd on Monday night, so the suggestion is that 20 or so of us go down to the pontoon and ‘rock the boat’ – Nancy that is – before din dins on Cartela. Of course an even better test would be to do it AFTER din dins, but are we game?
Posted Oct 8, 2014, 5:29 PM by Unknown user
On The Water Elsewhere columnNell and Hans have sent these pics of their trip kayaking down the upper Murray and across Lake Hume.
Posted Oct 6, 2014, 4:40 AM by Unknown user
Official Opening of the Australian Wooden Boat FestivalThursday 16 October at 1:00 pm Parliament House Lawns RSVP to Bronwyn Hansson: 03 6223 3375 office@australianwoodenboatfestival.com.au by 14 October, please
Posted Oct 5, 2014, 1:58 AM by Unknown user
Professor Phil to the rescuePeter Heading writes: ‘The Nancy has been on the Port Huon Yacht Club slip for replacement of the stern bearing. Many thanks to Phill Dunning for his time and expertise in getting out the prop shaft , fitting the new bearing and generally tidying up the motor to shaft pulleys and belts. The run up the river back to Franklin confirmed a significant reduction in noise levels in the propulsion system.’
Posted Oct 3, 2014, 3:09 AM by Unknown user
Comedy Night at the PalaisOn Saturday evening the 1st of November 2014 there’ll be a stand-up comedy gig of epic proportions held at… The Palais theatre in Franklin. Tickets NOW on SALE! http://www.trybooking.com/FYYD This is a benefit to assist with restoring the tennis courts. For more details see http://bit.ly/1x4Ibz3
Posted Oct 2, 2014, 6:11 PM by Unknown user
Flair DisplayMarine and Safety Tasmania:Notice No.: M105-14; Title: Flare Displays; Valid From: 2/10/2014; Valid Until: 9/10/2014. Notice Content: Mariners are advised flare displays will be conducted as follows:Thursday, 2 October (today) at Kingston between 1700 and 2100 hours; Friday, 3 October at Kettering between 1200 and 1700; Tuesday, 7 October and Wednesday, 8 October at Mountain River between 1200 and 2000. Red hand flares and parachute rockets will be used. These should not be taken as signals of distress.One for all us pyromaniacs.
Posted Oct 2, 2014, 2:23 AM by Unknown user
Franklin Working Waterfront NewsSpecial General Meeting: 3:00pm Sunday 12th October; Franklin Primary School. BUSINESS: To consider constitutional changes which are critical in the context of our proposed purchase and operation of the Wooden Boat Centre. ENQUIRIES A. Cato (Public Officer) 6266 3340. See newsletter attached, with more about the purchase of the Wooden Boat Centre (http://bit.ly/1vv9wud).
Posted Sep 30, 2014, 5:23 PM by Unknown user
Cheap boat transport across Bass StraitFrom Paul Cullen:Space available!‘Boat trailer returning empty from Tasmania to Melbourne in October via Toll Shipping. Purpose-built registered trailer for boats to 32’ and 3.5 tonnes. Bass Strait cost is $2000. Pickup in Tasmania and mainland delivery quoted by transporter. Interested? Contact bosun@marinedirectory.net’
Posted Sep 30, 2014, 2:57 PM by Unknown user
Yukon NewsFrom David Nash. ‘We are all well up in Sydney Town, although it’s very loud at night and our location in Darling Harbour is a bit like being in a mosh pit at a pop festival. We are doing 2 daytrips a day and bookings are reasonable to good. Our passage across Bass Strait was a corker with Yukon clocking a near record 9.5 knots with a double reefed main single reefed square and jib. The old girl behaved and impressed us all with her ability to cope with 40 knots plus westerlies we logged 166 in 24 …must be her North Sea Roots kicking in. we had on the nose northerlies after that which drank up a …
Posted Sep 30, 2014, 2:47 PM by Unknown user
Cartela Birthday CelebrationMonday October 13th 6.30pm; Aboard ‘Cartela’ (moored in Franklin); $20 a head; Ticket Booking: 0412 168 552; RSVP 6th October; Fixed menu: nibbles, salads, variety of pies and quiches, fruit salad; Jazz band; Talk from Ross James; In aid of St Ayles Skiff Regatta (tasskiffie2015.org).
Posted Sep 27, 2014, 5:19 PM by Unknown user
Motor Boat License and Safety Boat CoursesBoat Licence CourseDate: Saturday 8th November; Duration: One day; Cost: $100.00 plus $50.00 for MAST licence; Instructor: Colin Stokes assisted by Glynn Shevels; If more than 6 people there will be a donation made to the LBT. LBT Safety Boat Course: Date: 29th November; TIme: 10am – 3pm; Cost: $25-00.Expressions of interest to Glynn Shevels, gshevels@gmail.com or 0419 341493. Alternatively complete the form at http://bit.ly/1ondIH6, and your details will appear in the list below (http://bit.ly/1ondVtO). Unless there is some complete aberration we shouldn’t have the same problem launching the safety boat at Franklin as they did on Bruny Island during the 2013 Tawe Nunnugah. Pic from Jill …
Posted Sep 27, 2014, 4:39 PM by Unknown user
WOW wow us (again)There is no doubt about it: if you want a good shindig get the Women on the Water (WOW) to organise it. Last night’s dinner and film night at the Palais was, literally, a roaring success: we wouldn’t have blamed the Lady Franklin Hotel next door if they had called the cops to get us to tone it down. After consuming an excellent array of soups and curries we were treated to a vintage Eartha Kitt concert, then a tutorial on gender roles, which we males thought would be hard to top. However ‘Welcome to the Sticks’ did the job, and we all went home happy and satisfied, and lots of money was raised for the St Ayles …
Posted Sep 27, 2014, 5:57 PM by Unknown user
VIP visitor to the shedJacquie Petrusma, Member for Franklin, Minister for Human Service & Minister for Women, came down to inspect the kitchen upgrade, which has been paid for by a government grant. We were able to feed her a hot lunch, so we suppose that was a demonstration that at least it (the kitchen) works. She also went out for a trip on Nancy. It looks like she had to keep running the State, but we hope she was still able to enjoy the scenery in the canal.
Posted Sep 26, 2014, 4:12 PM by Unknown user
Thumbs up for NancyIt was apparent that for Nancy to pass a MAST inspection there was a need to roll up the sleeves and get to work. The result is that new electric and manual bilge pumps have been put in place, a safety railing around motor constructed, a boarding step added, the horn has been relocated, the fuel tank removed, a CO2 fire extinguisher installed, the life jackets have been washed and cleaned, extra hand rails fitted to the roof, a navigation post (with light) erected, a new radio fitted, there is extra wiring and switch box to support the new electrics, and there are extra cleats and ropes for better mooring. All this good work meant that Nancy passed her inspection …
Posted Sep 24, 2014, 3:04 PM by Unknown user
Monday becomes TuesdayMonday is usually a nice peaceful day at the shed, at least until the cooks arrive to begin preparing for the evening meal. Not yesterday: the Tuesday crew were in to finish off all those improvements needed for Nancy so she can pass her inspection by MAST at the Cygnet slip on Wednesday. Big thanks to Glyn, Graham Wright, Allan and Angela for their efforts.
Posted Sep 22, 2014, 4:17 PM by Unknown user
Bushfire Awareness DayHuon Valley Council invites you to attend a Community Bushfire Awareness & Preparedness Workshop: Sunday 19 October 2014; 10am- 1:30pm; Huonville Community Town Hall (40 Main Road, Huonville). See attached flyer for details: http://bit.ly/1wZSFCt
Posted Sep 22, 2014, 4:15 AM by Unknown user
Shed envy columnIt’s not fair (never is). Take a look at the facilities at Ulverstone Men’s Shed pictured below. They have taken over a corner of the show grounds, and hosted the Tasmanian Men’s Shed Association AGM last week.
Posted Sep 21, 2014, 3:21 PM by Unknown user
Visit from Spring BayOur friends from the Spring Bay Shed (Triabunna) came down on Saturday, to investigate St Ayles Skiffs. They got their money’s worth: a show and tell about the build from Pete Heading, a row in Imagine coxed by Marguerite, and a brief excursion in Nancy. Pics from Barbara Dawson and Nell Tyson
Posted Sep 21, 2014, 9:02 PM by Unknown user
Rowing Club Information NightFrom John Walduck: ‘Tim Brown is holding an information night re the Rowing Club shed redevelopment on Thursday night [September 18] at 7.30pm at the shed. This will be a major project, involving hundreds of thousands of dollars. ‘The shed’ mentioned would be the rowing shed, by the rowing ways.
Posted Sep 17, 2014, 4:58 AM by Unknown user
Noisy NancyAnybody who has been out on Nancy will have noticed an irritating whine emanating from the electric motor, which can become a howl if she is really turned up. During his recent visit Martin Krynen got on the case and we think we now know what is going on and have a solution. It would seem that whilst the AC output from the controller is a trapezoidal (basically square) wave, the engine is expecting sinusoidal (sine wave) input and consequently has been whinging – loudly. A new controller has been ordered.
Posted Sep 17, 2014, 4:45 AM by Unknown user
Bendigo Skiff taking shapeRecent visitors to the shed will have noticed the great progress being made on the Skiff by Pete Heading and his merry crew. She is starting to look like a boat, with a keel and all! For news and information about the build have a look at http://bit.ly/1kou8wx
Posted Sep 19, 2014, 12:42 AM by Unknown user
Levelling upThe Tuesday crew took a load to the tip, and returned with gravel to level up the floors, inside and out. Pics from Nell Tyson
Posted Sep 16, 2014, 1:04 AM by Unknown user
Beware this womanNo cheeking the kitchen staff from now on. Pic from Nell Tyson
Posted Sep 21, 2014, 2:48 PM by Unknown user
Nancy finally belongs to the LBTShe has been sitting on our pontoon for some time now, but there was the small (ahem) matter of the dollar we owed Martin and Judy Krynen for Nancy (see the bill of sale below). The issue was redressed on Monday night, when, amidst much ceremony, Martin and Judy accepted that dollar. Pics from Nell Tyson
Posted Sep 21, 2014, 10:56 PM by Unknown user
Fair winds YukonOn Sunday afternoon Yukon departed Franklin for another ‘East Coast Odyssey’ up along the New South Wales Coast. Read all about it at http://eastcoastodyssey.wildiaries.com/
Posted Sep 14, 2014, 3:29 AM by Unknown user
Off Center HarbourGreg Guy pointed out this website: ‘A couple of years ago we discovered the precision and clarity by which digital videos illuminate the world of traditional boats. This revelation ultimately led to the creation of the OffCenterHarbor.com. Videos remain the heart of the OffCenterHarbor experience and along with expert advice from our guides will always be at the core of our site.Lots of good boatie stuff: http://www.offcenterharbor.com/all-videos/
Posted Sep 14, 2014, 3:06 AM by Unknown user
On the Water Program: help wantedFrom David Budd (who is coordinating the program): Volunteers needed for Schools Programme – land and water activities The LBT is running a schools programme in the lead up to the Swiftsure Regatta from mid October until early of December, and needs assistance with activities both on and off the water. Volunteers are not required to commit to all dates, however the more you can help us, the better of course! A brief training session will be held after WOW rowing on Friday 3 October. If you are able to help on any of the following dates, please contact asap David Budd or Barbara Dawson (62663571 or 0408212495). Dates when help is needed (and number of volunteers required each day) are …
Posted Sep 13, 2014, 5:33 PM by Unknown user
Under the Water ProgramThe depth sounder on Nancy has not worked since it’s transponder had an unfortunate scrape with a sunken log in the canal. One possibility was that their was mud or weeds gumming up the works, and in a final attempt to solve the problem a wet suit was rounded up and the briny braved. Unfortunately it was all to no avail: even after a good scrub of her bottom Nancy still doesn’t know whether she is in clear water or headed for the shoals. Pics from Peter Heading
Posted Sep 13, 2014, 1:10 AM by Unknown user
Franklin Working Waterfront Association AGMFrom Alan Cato: ‘Hello member and supporters. In case time has passed quickly for you, this is just a reminder of Franklin Working Waterfront’s AGM to be held at 3:00pm this coming Sunday [14th September] at the Franklin Primary School. Committee members will be present about half an hour before the meeting to accept subscriptions. We look forward to seeing as many attend as possible, because there’s news to share.’
Posted Sep 13, 2014, 5:57 PM by Unknown user
Good News for NancyPeter Keyes from MAST came down to do a preliminary inspection of Nancy today (Thursday 11th), and gave a big thumbs up to progress so far. We were sent away with a shopping list of equipment to purchase and things to do, but we are very close to having her prepared for certification as an historic domestic commercial vessel. With any luck we will be all set to go for Seniors Week in October. Thanks to all who have lent a hand, either with the tools or the documentation. For those who are are not aware, Nancy has her own news column and even her own mailing list: hop over to http://bit.ly/1jvN8Mn and have a look.
Posted Sep 10, 2014, 10:31 PM by Unknown user
Committee Meeting this coming ThursdayCommittee meetings are held on the second Thursday of the month, and the new committee will have its inaugural meeting this week (11th Sept). The agenda hasn’t been completed yet, but the one being worked can be viewed at http://bit.ly/WFp69Q. Items to be addressed include: Organising the committee; Seniors Week; On the water program; Good character checks; Franklin Village at Wooden Boat Festival; History Group (see correspondence from Ruth Young) ; Tasmanian Men’s Shed Association; Membership payment ($70); AGM (see correspondence from Keith Ellis); Security; Ref: correspondence from Doug Barber; There is an outstanding action to change the locks and move the keys; Return Raid; See poster attached; Boot and boat sale (October); New bookkeeper (Jacqui …
Posted Sep 9, 2014, 5:16 AM by Unknown user
The ‘Reverse’ RaidCan’t go on Tawe Nunnugah, but want to get out on the water at Wooden Boat Festival time? Can go on Tawe Nunnugah but know you’ll want more? We are planning an organised and supported three day ‘cruise in company’ Feb 10-12 2015 from Hobart back to Franklin to join the St Ayles Skiff Regatta and associated riverfest at Franklin (tasskiffie2015.org). More details to follow, but spread the word. And if you are of an artistic inclination send suggestions and/or photos for a poster to advertise the event to sec@lbt.org.au . See a couple of examples below (thanks to Aspen Cauchi for the background images).
Posted Sep 8, 2014, 4:31 AM by Unknown user
Visit from the Wooden Boat GuildThe Franklin waterfront was abuzz on Sunday, with the visiting Wooden Boat Guild bringing LOTS of boats, as well as taking advantage of Nancy to make excursions up and down the river. One of the most interesting of the visitors was the steam launch Leprena – all that lovely shiny brass and things going up and down and round and round.
Posted Sep 7, 2014, 3:22 PM by Unknown user
Winners are grinnersThe ‘Lost Souls’ team who won the quiz competition at the 2013 AGM had to wait for their prize, but it was worth it: an excursion around the Egg Islands aboard Nancy with ‘Skipper’ Heading at the helm and with Devonshire Tea laid on by Margaret Forster, on one of those Tassie mornings when there is no better place to be. Well, Rusty was a bit unsure, but the rest of us certainly were not. Pics from Margaret Forstezrand Dennis Muscovich
Posted Sep 8, 2014, 6:40 AM by Unknown user
AWBF NewsletterSeptember newsletter from the Australian Wooden Boat Festival can be found at http://bit.ly/Z8brts. Of local interest are items about St Ayles Skiffs and Tawe Nunnugah, but lots of other good boaty stuff.
Posted Sep 4, 2014, 6:18 PM by Unknown user
Extension PlansThe LBT has a number of champions, and one of the less visible is Guy Greener who has been beavering away at plans for our verandah extension. As is always the case with these things, what seemed simple has not been, but Guy has been steadily levelling mountains into mole hills that we can realistically tackle, and is now happy to share the drawings that he has prepared. Have a look at them at http://bit.ly/1uo3tqM . Below is part of the accompanying email. ‘…just add the rider that it hasn’t been to Council yet. I gave a copy to the Building surveyor last week for comment and he couldn’t see anything in particular omitted or wrong …
Posted Sep 5, 2014, 7:27 PM by Unknown user
Young Endeavour Youth SchemeJohn Young pointed out the following invitation. The Governor-General, His Excellency General the Honourable Sir Peter Cosgrove AK MC (Retd) today launched a national ballot for a world voyage in 2015 by the Sail Training Ship Young Endeavour. “Today, I encourage Australians aged 18-30 to apply for this exciting adventure. This is a tremendous opportunity to invest your time into an unforgettable journey; a journey not only around the world, but also of self-discovery.” There are one or two of us who do not fall into the demographic, but we probably have young friends who could be pointed in the right direction. The relevant website is http://www.youngendeavour.gov.au/ . See the attached document for more …
Posted Sep 2, 2014, 12:33 AM by Unknown user
LBT joins the Tasmanian Men’s Shed AssociationThere are a number of local sheds which belong to this organisation (at Margate, Geeveston and Dover) and we are hoping we can benefit from it.
Posted Sep 2, 2014, 12:29 AM by Unknown user
Bird in the hand (almost)Burrowing through the just released Tasmanian Budget Papers for 2014 we came across ‘Living Boat Trust – Pontoon and upgrade of kitchen facilities – 30’ (thousand dollars). See http://www.premier.tas.gov.au/budget_2014?a=235389 . It’s not in the bank yet, but nearly. Our thanks to the State Government, and to Liz Emery who chased this one down. We’ve been acting on the assumption that this money was coming, and the kitchen is looking fantastic due to the great work done by Brett, Peter (the painter), and the rest of the Tuesday group.
Posted Sep 2, 2014, 12:30 AM by Unknown user
Reminder: Visit from the Wooden Boat GuildMembers of the Guild (www.woodenboatguildtas.org.au) are coming down next Sunday 7th September, and a sausage sizzle is planned at the Wooden Boat Centre around lunch times (other activities are yet to be organised). Our two organisations have a lot in common and we are looking forward to getting together with them. The ‘Terra Linna’, restored by the Guild. Image from the ABC: (http://ab.co/1lCOdGb)
Posted Aug 31, 2014, 8:04 AM by Unknown user
AGM and Quiz NightSpeeches were given, reports accepted and the assembled masses appointed the following to the committee for the coming year: Peter Laidlaw (President); Richard Forster (Treasurer/Secretary); Ros Barnett; Endra O’May; Rob Brocksopp; David Budd; Graham Rankin; Tony Cooper; Hans Sipsma. 2013-14 was by most measures a very successful year for the LBT and Peter thanked the outgoing committee for their efforts. The President’s report will be available in the 2014 folder shortly (see http://bit.ly/XtLOCU). Read it whilst it is still freely available. it will go behind a paywall as soon as ‘The wit and wisdom of Peter Laidlaw’ is published. Having got all that meeting stuff out of the way David Pittaway called us …
Posted Sep 1, 2014, 3:39 PM by Unknown user
Monday night rowing crewLorrie Harrison is trialing a new booking system for ‘Imagine’ but there may not be any spare slots to book. Everybody is getting excited by the prospect of the St Ayles Skiff Regatta (tasskiffie2015.org), and getting out on the water. Pics from Endra O’May
Posted Aug 31, 2014, 7:49 AM by Unknown user
Night at the flicks coming upJane Johnson writes‘Franklin is rural, small and a welcome sight for all descending into the Huon Valley. A movie that combines the above and is filmed in a small town in France is about to be screened at the Palais in Franklin. It is another fundraiser for the rowing group “Women on Water” and provides all the ingredients for a great night out.’ Movie: “Welcome to the Sticks” (Supper provided)When: Friday 26th September, 6pmWhere: Palais TheatreTickets: From the Post Office, Village Antiques or ring 62663224 Cost: $20 a headFor more details see the document (http://bit.ly/1lzmYfz) and poster (http://bit.ly/1lzn6Mf) attached.
Posted Aug 28, 2014, 11:57 PM by Unknown user
Cartela has a DoppelgangerTalk of the Flagstaff Hill Maritime Precinct (www.flagstaffhill.com) at Warrnambool prompted Barbara Dawson to send the accompanying photos, one of which shows a boat with a profile very similar to the one moored next to the evaporator sheds. Barbara confirms that the Maritime Precinct is definitely worth a visit for anybody travelling through south western Victoria.
Posted Aug 28, 2014, 4:48 PM by Unknown user
Franklin Village at the AWBFWe at the Living Boat Trust should be as aware as anybody that change is afoot around the old Brooke St Pier where we had our ‘village’ at the last Australian Wooden Boat Festival. We only have to look at the salvaged shed roof on our front lawn with ‘Brooke Street Pier’ written across it. The Festival organising committee have kept us in mind and allocated us a new space on the other side of Waterman’s Dock. The map below is indicative of what they have in mind. Should be good.
Posted Aug 28, 2014, 12:43 AM by Unknown user
Tawe Nunnugah 2015Preparations are beginning in earnest. The organising committee is a meeting at the Shed tonight (Monday 25th). To keep up visit the TN15 website tn15.org and add yourself to the mailing list.
Posted Aug 24, 2014, 5:34 PM by Unknown user
Cartela in the newsGraham Wright spotted this story on the ABC site, largely constructed from an interview with Ross James: ‘Historic boat restorers want to bolster Tasmania’s shipwright skills’ . (http://ab.co/1pP28bQ). Nice photo of Cartela when she was brand spanking new.
Posted Aug 24, 2014, 4:40 AM by Unknown user
La ChaloupeRon Wells from the Dover Men’s shed came visiting on Tuesday. They have recently finished restoring ‘La Chaloupe‘. She had been in a terrible state, so this was an admirable effort. They hope to use her in events on the river – we can expect to see her at the Swiftsure Regatta if not before. Lori Harrison tells us that WOW are going for a row in ‘La Chaloupe’ soon: we await a report.
Posted Aug 22, 2014, 3:21 PM by Unknown user
Progress on the Bendigo SkiffA milestone has been achieved – the stems hog and four frames were glued together to form the backbone of the skiff. To follow progress on this build hop over to the Bendigo Skiff web page (http://bit.ly/1kou8wx), which can be found under Boats in the main menu. If you are really interested add yourself to the mailing list whilst you are there.
Posted Aug 20, 2014, 4:08 PM by Unknown user
Another way to enjoy the riverNell Tyson, Hans Sipsma, David Budd and Barbara Dawson took their kayaks out to greet the Cartela. If you like being as close to the drink as possible without actually being in it (well, most of the time), kayaks could be for you. (pics from Nell Tyson)
Posted Aug 20, 2014, 5:21 AM by Unknown user
Warrnambool St Ayles Skiff ProjectThe Flagstaff Hill Maritime Precinct (www.flagstaffhill.com) at Warrnambool organises the Australian Racing Championships for whaleboats. Now a group from the same town has formed the Warrnambool St Ayles Skiff Club and intend coming down for our regatta in February. They write : ‘Warrnambool are hoping to attend as a crew or part thereof and at best with a boat in tow. Very aspirational at this point given we have just launched our crowdfunding campaign on the Pozible website. We have several grant applications in the pipeline and this Pozible ( http://www.pozible.com/project/185000 ) project concludes on Oct 3 which is effectively when we hope to order our first kit. With a 2 week delivery time that would …
Posted Aug 20, 2014, 1:53 AM by Unknown user
Book LaunchIf you want a Tassie boating adventure book for children it is hard to beat ‘Those Snake Island Kids’ by Jon Tucker, and now there is a sequel about to be launched: ‘Those Eco-pirate Kids’. If you are interested hop along to Fuller’s Bookshop, 5.30pm Thursday 21st August. Details attached: see http://bit.ly/1BszqSR and http://bit.ly/1AqIYfJ
Posted Aug 18, 2014, 12:36 AM by Unknown user
LBT Financials and auditors report for 2013-14Liz Emery (our treasurer) has provided these reports which can be found at http://bit.ly/XtMpEt . Note that official material of this sort can always can always be accessed from the LBT web site. In this case choose ‘Resources‘ from the main menu, then ‘2014 AGM’‘ then ‘2014financials’. In general, choose ‘Resources‘, then ‘Official Documents‘ and navigate your way from there.
Posted Aug 17, 2014, 9:23 PM by Richard Forster
LBT news mailed dailyLBT stalwart Richard Edwards writes (in relation to the weekly emailed news digest): ‘What I have noticed, and found a bit frustrating, is that some important events at or associated with the LBT are not announced until after they happened! We knew about the arrival of Cartela through the media but had no idea about yesterday’s gig at the shed following her arrival.’ Fair point. For his sins Richard has been added to a list which will get their news daily at 9am. You too can avail yourself of this option by completing the form at http://eepurl.com/1cl7H . This form can also be found on the LBT website: choose ‘About Us’ from the main menu then ‘Subscribe …
Posted Aug 17, 2014, 8:39 PM by Unknown user
Quiz nightWe traditionalists are very pleased that David Pittaway will be orchestrating the quiz night which will follow the AGM on the 30th of August. The AGM is scheduled to finish at 6.45pm, there will be a break for food and drink, and then David will order us all to our seats at 7.30 and get proceedings under way. There will be door and table prizes and lots of fun. Bring plenty of pieces of eight (gold coins that is) for some ‘heads and tails’ and bribery and corruption during the quiz. Cost: $5.00 per head (members), $10.00 a head non members Where: Bowls Club (opposite the Palais Theatre), Franklin When: Bar opens 6.45pm, 30th August …
Posted Aug 17, 2014, 3:23 AM by Unknown user
Stone CarvingDuring the first couple of weekends of August David Barclay ran a very successful stone carving course at the shed. Annette Cauchi did much of the organising. Thanks from the LBT to both of them: this was a terrific initiative. Here is Annette’s report. The recent stone carving workshops with David Barclay proved to be very popular. Two planned days became three as interest from the public was very high, and even then there was a waiting list. But it was not without a few hurdles. A last minute discovery that the power was going to be turned off in Franklin sent the organisers into an inspired panic and two 7kva generators were miraculously procured at the last minute …
Posted Aug 17, 2014, 2:30 AM by Unknown user
Cartela arrives in FranklinCartela was quite a sight as she came up past Jackson’s Point trailed by a small fleet. There was a good crowd to greet her at her new wharf, many of whom had a tour of the boat, and then repaired to the LBT for hot soup and rolls prepared by Ros Barnett and team.
Posted Aug 17, 2014, 12:20 AM by Unknown user
Speaking event in HuonvilleRichard Bennett, famous for his photographs of the ill-fated 1998 Sydney to Hobart Race, will be talking at an ‘Outstanding Achievers Speaker Series Talk’ sponsored by Rotary at the Huon Manor, Huonville starting 6.30pm on 30th September. See the attached flyer for prices and details http://bit.ly/1t0y8IW
Posted Aug 16, 2014, 12:48 AM by Unknown user
The electricity is on, the tide is right, so …Ros Barnett writes: I’m told that we can expect Cartelato make thelast leg of her journey, from Port Huon to Franklin, on Sunday, 17th August 2014. The LIVING BOAT TRUST is organising a reception for her at the Franklin Wharf at 13:00pm for 13:30pm. Please feel free to help us celebrate by joining a flotilla to accompany her up river by mustering off Shipwrights Point, Port Huon, at noon. There will be refreshments in the LBT shed from 13:00 until 4 pm. It is pretty muddy along the river bank so wear your wellies. For up to date information check the Steamship Cartela Facebook page. Ross James and David Nash had the new …
Posted Aug 15, 2014, 4:00 AM by Unknown user
On The Water ProgramRos Barnett writes: HELP NEEDED: DINGHY INSTRUCTORS: you will be helming a dinghy withfour grade 5/6 students on the oars. Your task will be to instruct thestudents in good rowing technique and dinghy safety. All instructors willattend a training day on Tuesday 7th October 0900 to 1200 to learnthe LBT commands and training methods. You should have a current FirstAid Certificate and you will need a Tasmanian Police Good CharacterCheck (GCC). These can be arranged through the Trust. SAFETY BOAT OPERATORS: you will be operating the LBTsafety boat in support of the dinghy instructors. The hours are the same,and you will require a GCC, First Aid and a Power Boat …
Posted Aug 14, 2014, 5:06 AM by Unknown user
Latest pics of kitchen reno (Tuesday afternoon)From Graham Wright: Here is where it is at as of 4:00pm today. Angela washed the walls down, Peter Hill painted the ceiling and around the window, Bret took the dishwasher for repair and was in today.
Posted Aug 12, 2014, 10:59 PM by Unknown user
Correspondents’ ReportYour travelling correspondents have just visited friends (and members) of the LBT Martin and Judy Krynen in Noosa. We could tell that they are sad about forgoing the ‘pleasures’ of a bracing Huon winter, but, being good hosts, hid their disappointment by donning their cottons and showing us around. They have been downsizing the Krynen fleet (just sold a boat), but in a shed across the river they still have their steam launch ‘Lady Lavinia‘. Martin told us that he cultivated an interest in steam, thinking that if his business ever went belly up at least fuel would be cheap (or free) and that he could potter around servicing diesels, electricals and the like. Fortunately it hasn’t come to …
Posted Aug 13, 2014, 12:43 AM by Unknown user
AGM moved to Franklin Bowls ClubDue to the uncertainty with the availability of the Cartela The AGM will now be held at the Franklin Bowls Club 3395 Huon Highway, Franklin (opposite the Palais) at 6pm, Saturday 30th of August 2014. The Agenda for the meeting can be found on the LBT website: http://bit.ly/1klBAhy This is a good time to remind those members who have yet to pay their dues ($40 single, $70 family) that they need to be financial if they wish to have voting rights at this meeting. Instructions for payments to the LBT can be found at http://bit.ly/1sHucOVThe AGM will be followed by the now traditional dinner and quiz night. Details to come.
Posted Aug 9, 2014, 3:56 AM by Unknown user
Friday at the LBTGraham Rankin writes: ‘Another busy (and crowded) day in the workshop on Friday, with both the skiff build and the fantastic kitchen renovation being done by Brett Doubleday and helpers. New benches and sinks have been fitted, the electrical circuits upgraded with extra power points and new task lighting fitted. A new instantaneous gas hot water system has also been fitted. We are very lucky to have someone with the skills, enthusiasm and time to have got this whole thing happening. THANK YOU BRETT!.’ For more pictures and information on the Skiff build head on over to the build web page: http://bit.ly/1kou8wx
Posted Aug 9, 2014, 1:54 AM by Unknown user
Renovators delightSOLD! (to the man at Cradoc) David Morton writes: ‘Recently I gave a small yacht called an Elver to someone who thought they could finish/restore it, but that has proven to be beyond them. The history I know is that she was started in Brisbane about 25 years ago, moved to Cairns where the hull & deck were done. It was bought by Franklin local Graeme Dudgeon who brought it to the Huon Valley and went into stasis. I got it from Graeme when he moved from Geeveston to Franklin, and it sat outdoors for about 5 years until it moved on after Easter. Now, it needs a new home with a keen owner as she has some rot in …
Posted Aug 12, 2014, 7:36 PM by Unknown user
Brrrm, brrrmBrett Doubleday writes:‘Hugh Esler, ambulance officer from Werribee, Melbourne, was on vacation to the southern isle when he came upon the LBT and became enamoured with the Huon Valley. He is a yachtie, had been given the motors pictured below, had no use for them and wanted them to go to a good home. His wife was also keen to see them depart as Hugh is a car nut (sorry, restorer) and has plenty of other pieces of machinery around to keep him company.’ Thanks Hugh. Photos from Graham Wright
Posted Aug 8, 2014, 1:22 AM by Unknown user
Kitchen UpgradeBrett Doubleday has been collecting material and threatening to get into it for a little while, and he and Tuesday crew are now well and truly underway. Photos from Graham Wright
Posted Aug 8, 2014, 1:24 AM by Unknown user
Classic wooden dinghy for sale (and sail)Graham Hunt points out the ‘Cadet dinghy tralier plus sails, Beautiful old King Billy pine, clinker built sail boat. Includes three sails and all rigging. Price negotiable.’ See Gumtree for details: http://bit.ly/1klCv1E
Posted Aug 5, 2014, 5:43 PM by Unknown user
Wooden Boat Guild VisitGraham Broxham (Secretary WBGT) writes: ‘The Wooden Boat Guild is planning a visit to Franklin for Sunday 7 September to see what is going on in your part of the world. If the LBT “works” were open on that day we would love to see your current projects. We are considering having a BYO BBQ at the Wooden Boat Centre to which you and your members would also be cordially invited: need to confirm details with Andy Gamlin who is still overseas.’ One to put in the diary.
Posted Aug 4, 2014, 10:05 PM by Unknown user
Latest from the Australian Wooden Boat FestivalThe new newsletter has articles about ‘Notorious‘, Tawe Nunnagah entrant ‘Boxer‘, the ‘Franklin Working River Port’ and more. See http://bit.ly/UXUsXT
Posted Aug 4, 2014, 9:57 PM by Unknown user
Notice to Mariners Marine and Safety Tasmania Title: Navigation Hazard – Floating Debris Valid From: 31/7/2014 Valid Until: 16/8/2014 Notice Content: Mariners are advised that recent heavy rains have caused debris to be washed into rivers and estuaries around the State. This debris, often partly submerged logs, presents a navigation hazard to vessels. Mariners are also advised that the heavy rainfall and run off from rivers into coastal waters may cause barways and river mouth entries to change substantially due to moving sand around the Tasmanian coast, particularly the East Coast and North Coast. Mariners are urged to take extreme caution whilst navigating seaward from rivers across barways and in estuarine waters whilst these conditions exist.
Posted Jul 30, 2014, 10:30 PM by Unknown user
Ikea Boat?David Budd and Aspen Cauchi extract the components for the ‘Bendigo’ St Ayles Skiff from the templates. To follow this build head on over to Bendigo Skiff Picture from Graham Rankin
Posted Jul 30, 2014, 5:15 PM by Unknown user
A couple of changes to the LBT websiteThe Calendar has been separated into two parts, to make it easier to find out what is going on. We run an intense regular program, which can make it difficult to find ‘one off’ events. Hopefully the change will improve this, and the secretary keeps the calendars up to date. The ‘Boats’ section has been moved from under ‘About Us’ into the top menu. This is to make it easier to navigate to the Bendigo Skiff and Nancy projects, which should be very active in the immediate future. To create the required space in the menu, the ‘WOW’ section has been moved under ‘About Us’.
Posted Jul 26, 2014, 10:37 PM by Unknown user
What the paint hidesGreg Guy thought he had a perfectly good mizzen mast, until some paint flaked away to reveal ugly rot holes. Greg has since been up to his ears in sawdust and shavings over on the Wooden Boat Centre wharf as he cuts and shapes his new mast. It is an impressive lump of wood.
Posted Jul 26, 2014, 1:12 AM by Unknown user
Cutting the ribbonOn Friday morning Janet Storan and Colleen Shield from the Bendigo Bank cut the ribbon on the St Ayles Skiff pack to begin the new build. We are off and running. Graham Rankin inducted us into some of the mysteries of the trade, a building frame was erected, boat moulds set out, and a jig set up for bending the stem into shape.
Posted Jul 25, 2014, 2:58 AM by Unknown user
Progress on the Sea KnightThe Sea Knight is getting close to completion, with many of the fittings already installed, and Glynn Shevels and Graham Wright working on the electricals. We can start to look forward to a launch.
Posted Jul 24, 2014, 3:56 PM by Unknown user
BoxerAmongst the prospective Tawe Nunnugah skippers is Chris Tyquin who is bringing Boxer down from Queensland. Looks like a really interesting boat. Chris writes: Boxer is the replica of what is believed to be the first client commissioned design and build of Norman “Boxer” Wright circa 1905/6. Designed originally for netting the banks of Moreton Bay with a crew of 2 or 3 using 16 foot oars when there wasn’t enough breeze and used for the odd weekend race with a crew of 10 to 12. Boxer was built of red cedar, mahogany and teak over 8 years under the watchful eye of Bill Wright ( Normans grandson and head of the Head of Norman R Wright and Sons …
Posted Jul 23, 2014, 3:10 PM by Unknown user
The big stickYesterday’s news story showed the shed full of happy diners, today’s shows it full of Martin Kell’s mizzen mast. Good thing it’s multipurpose.
Posted Jul 23, 2014, 3:08 PM by Unknown user
WoW putting the Fun back into FundraisingAnnette Cauchi writes:‘Last night the Wow women put on a magnificent Winter Feast at the LBT to raise money for the 2015 Tassie Skiffies. The three-course meal was superb and the entertainment unsurpassed. A moving rendition of U2’s Van Diemen’s Land in full harmony was a highlight and very appropriate. And any Scottish Skiffies prepared to undertake the epic journey won’t be greeted with chains and hard labour, but a genuine piped welcome from the inimitable Peter Laidlaw.‘
Posted Jul 23, 2014, 4:12 AM by Unknown user
A tight squeezeHaving been successfully craned onto the Franklin waterfront, it looked for a time as though the roof of the old Brook Street Pier shed might have to remain jammed between the Evaporator office and an electricity pole as a sort of installation sculpture. Fortunately a lot of wiggling a bit of ‘persuading’ saw it pop out, and it now resides temporarily on the LBT lawn whilst a new home it found for it. Thanks to Gordon Forster for pics
Posted Jul 17, 2014, 6:32 AM by Unknown user
Opportunity to get out on North Egg IslandDenna Kingdom writes:‘The Tasmanian Land Conservancy is looking for volunteers to help with pulling out weeds at North Egg Island (part of our beautiful Egg Islands Reserve) from Friday 1 – Sunday 3 August. For more information or to register please visit: http://www.tasland.org.au/about/volunteering’
Posted Jul 17, 2014, 6:29 AM by Unknown user
Brooke Street comes to FranklinOne minute we were taking pictures of the dismantled shed at the Brooke Street pier in Hobart, the next Graham Rankin was sending text messages to say that the roof of said shed had been sighted off Herriot’s Point aboard a barge. He was right, and as the following sequence of photos shows the barge (with roof) was rapidly moored in Franklin. The plan is to unload tomorrow (Thursday) starting about 10 am. Thanks to Gordon Forster for pics And the shed as it was in the days of FX Holdens. That’s Nancy moored in Waterman’s dock.
Posted Jul 20, 2014, 5:25 PM by Unknown user
Annual General MeetingAs recently announced, the AGM/Quiz night will be held on August 30th. At this stage we anticipate that it will be at the Franklin Bowls Club, but there is an exciting alternative venue (currently moored at Port Huon) which we may use if it becomes available. As documents become available they will be placed at AGM 2014 Documents , which is available under the Resources option in the LBT website menu.The one document available at the moment is a Committee Member Nomination Form (http://bit.ly/1mQiHlU). Here is your chance: dob in a fellow member!
Posted Aug 9, 2015, 3:36 PM by Posts Editor
Membership RenewalsThanks to the many members who have already responded to the request to renew their membership of the LBT. You should have received an emailed acknowledgement. If you did not please send a note to the secretary at sec@lbt.org.au so that we can sort you out. Reminder notices will be sent out shortly to those of us who have yet to pony up.
Posted Jul 14, 2014, 9:27 PM by Unknown user
Before and afterDavid Budd writes: ‘As the pictures show, after only 3 weeks training, the men’s rowing group has become much fitter and sexier. You too can be a part of this miracle. No supplements, no drug tests! Turn up at LBT at 10am Thursdays.’
Posted Jul 14, 2014, 9:12 PM by Unknown user
Wooden Toys for the Wooden Boat FestivalGraham Rankin writes: ‘Many members might remember how successful our little wooden boats were at the last Festival, they were very much an unexpected hit and raised over $900.00 for us. Now is the time to think about whet we do for next years Festival. The toy boats are an obvious choice, but do any members have suggestions for other easy to make items that would appeal to boat minded festival goers? Email suggestions to ; woodenboatfreak@gmail.com . Would a few members like to get hands on, on Monday nights to get the blood moving and keep warm by making some items? Many hand etc. We will have a few samples at next Monday’s WOW dinner, so bring …
Posted Jul 14, 2014, 8:55 PM by Unknown user
Stone Carving CourseAnnette Cauchi writes: ‘Have you ever wanted to learn the art of stone carving? If so, here is the opportunity you have been waiting for. Stone artist and tutor, David Barclay will be conducting two workshops in August, at the Living Boat Trust in Franklin. These days will be suitable for beginners or those with some experience. David is visiting the Huon Valley during August and will be holding two Sunday stone carving workshops. The first, on August 3rd, will be an opportunity to make a birdbath or large bowl using an angle grinder. This technique is easy to learn and even beginners will be quickly designing and creating their own piece of stone sculpture to take home and place …
Posted Jul 20, 2014, 3:30 PM by Unknown user
New Sponsors for St Ayles Skiff RegattaJane Johnson writes: ‘Thank you to Franklin Marine (franklinmarine.com.au) and Petty Sessions Cafe (https://www.facebook.com/pettysessions), who have become race sponsors. The events are: the Franklin Marine Men’s Open 1km and the Petty Sessions Cafe Youth Mixed 1km.’ Local businesses have always been good supporters of the LBT and it is great to see them getting behind this event. For more details about it see tasskiffie2015.org
Posted Jul 11, 2014, 4:48 PM by Unknown user
Get well TonyWe love our ‘colourful characters’ at the LBT, and Tony Cooper has been one of them ever since he arrived in his big old cray boat at the beginning of last summer. We hear that a spot of bother has landed him in Hobart General Hospital, and are sure all members will join with us in wishing him a speedy recovery that will see him back aboard as soon as possible.
Posted Jul 10, 2014, 9:53 PM by Unknown user
Another mystery boatBill Peterson writes: ‘I am trying to identify the boat and location from the attached photo. The date would be pre Second World War and may be connected to Reserve Navy training. Any assistance regarding this would be greatly appreciated. ‘ Have a look at the picture below and get back to Bill at bpeterson@iinet.net.au if you have information
Posted Jul 9, 2014, 5:10 PM by Unknown user
Last call: clear out your boat shedAbsolute last chance to declutter the shed, and earn some brownie points at home! Franklin’s Women on Water group is looking for donations of unwanted boating or fishing items to sell at our stall at the Kettering Maritime Market on 19 July 2014. For example old dinghies or canoes, unused fenders, redundant anchors, oars, fishing gear, flags, nautical pictures etc – anything vaguely maritime that you don’t use any more. Leave in the box outside LBT or phone Barb 0408 212495 to arrange collection. All profits go towards hosting and running the international St Ayles Skiff regatta at Franklin in February 2015. David Budd/Barbara Dawson 3412B Huon Highway Franklin Tasmania 7113 Phone 03 62663571 Mob 0408 212495
Posted Jul 9, 2014, 8:09 AM by Unknown user
Special Monday night at the LBTEndra O’May writes: ‘Monday night the 21st of July 5.30 to 9.30 , come along for our ”Winter Feast” cooked by the WOW girls to raise money for the “St. Ayles Skiff” Regatta. You need to book though, $15 a head plus wine. There is a notice on the board at the LBT shed and only 14 places left, or send an email to Endra: endra2012@hotmail.com
Posted Jul 9, 2014, 8:13 AM by Unknown user
Spring Bay Shed WarmingOur friends at Spring Bay (Triabunna) send the following notice: EXPRESSIONSOF INTEREST Wewould like to organize an opening celebration for our new site on theweekend of SATURDAY 02 and SUNDAY 03 AUGUST Themost important question is can you come on either or both days? Saturday AnOn-Water-Day with arrival times flexible during the day. Provisionally located at One Tree Point on Spring Bay, your boatswould be very welcome. THIS ACTIVITY IS VERY MUCH WEATHER DEPENDENT. Ameal at the Spring Bay Hotel to round out the day. Sunday AShed focus with a lunch at the Shed. An opportunity to explore thefacility and share in our plans for its future. ASA …
Posted Jul 9, 2014, 8:14 AM by Unknown user
Everybody loves NancyAnother news story about Nancy. To read it in full get the Sunday Tasmanian, 6th July.
Posted Jul 6, 2014, 2:54 AM by Unknown user
Visualising a new boatshedWe have funding for a new boatshed, and there has been much discussion about different possibilities. One option is to tuck it in on the downstream side of the downstream finger of the marina. Some of the advantages of this position are:it is close to the LBT shed; it is sheltered; there is good access for boats, even if a tide is running; it is visually out of the way, not impeding existing views of the river. Here are two sketches (thanks to Ben Forster) to assist in visualising what it might look like, given that the structure is similar to the existing dinghy shed. What do you think?
Posted Jul 6, 2014, 2:24 AM by Unknown user
New boat in FranklinNo more reefing their Lazy E in one knot breezes for Deb and Martin. Its replacement, a Bay Raider, has arrived and will be moored to the pontoon for the next week, so we will all get a chance to give it the once over.
Posted Jul 6, 2014, 1:51 AM by Unknown user
Nancy has her (electronic) innards dissectedDave Warren hooked his computer up to the electric motor controller and fine tuned all the settings. Dave has a huge background in electronics and the use of electric motors in planes, boats, automobiles (and trains for all we know) and we are very lucky to have his advice.
Posted Jul 4, 2014, 4:39 AM by Unknown user
John’s DinghyJohn from New Zealand has been working frantically (with Peter Laidlaw) to finish his dinghy over at the Wooden Boat Centre , and Friday was launch day. Looks like it was worth it.
Posted Jul 6, 2014, 2:27 AM by Unknown user
Expression of Interest: Bendigo Bank Community Skiff BuildTess Hallinan writes: ‘Are you interested in taking part in a community boat building project? The Bendigo Bank has generously provided a grant for building a St Ayles skiff at The Living Boat Trust, 3337 Huon Highway, in Franklin. It is envisaged that there would be two crews working a session a week, probably from ten to two o’clock on two days yet to be decided, with possibly the occasional weekend session for those unable to make it during the week. The Ian Outred designed St Ayles skiff, like the ones made by both the Cygnet community and Franklin’s Women on Water, comes as a standard kit. It should take four to five months to complete. When finished …
Posted Jul 5, 2014, 12:08 AM by Unknown user
More LBT news (than you know what to do with)There are now four LBT projects with their own news columns: Tawe Nunnugah 2015, the St Ayles Skiff Regatta (2015), Nancy, and the Bendigo Skiff build. If this news is of general interest it will be added to the LBT news column. If you have a particular interest in any of these projects and want their news bulletins emailed to you, go to the their web pages and use the appropriate option to register: for Nancy go to http://bit.ly/1jvM2jS ; for Tawe Nunnagah go to http://tn15.org ;for the St Ayles Skiff Regatta http://tasskiffie2015.org ;for the Bendigo Skiff build go to http://bit.ly/1kou8wx :A ‘join the mailing list’ form has also been added …
Posted Jul 4, 2014, 11:19 PM by Unknown user
‘Happy Jack’ for saleLBT member Allan Witt, the designer and builder of Derwent Raiders, took this boat with us on the February 2014 expedition to Kettering and has demonstrated it on Monday evenings. It is very impressive. See the details on Gumtree: http://bit.ly/1z7yTEE .
Posted Jul 2, 2014, 9:41 PM by Unknown user
A short film for Monday night dinnerThe demolition of the old Franklin cricket pavilion was a cause célèbre . Mike Peters has made a short film about the pavilion which will we will see at dinner.
Posted Jul 5, 2014, 12:09 AM by Unknown user
Cartela NOT coming on the 4thWe had been hoping to organise a welcome for her, but Ross James (of the Steamship Cartela Company) writes ‘still no word from Aurora re power on the Franklin wharf. Please pass on that Cartela will not be arriving on the 4th. I will confirm a date as soon as I can.’
Posted Jul 2, 2014, 3:14 AM by Unknown user
July Newsletter from the AWBFArticles include: a Hobart farewell to Cartela (their loss, out gain); an announcement for the St Ayles Skiff Regatta; a request for examples of Tasmanian boat design to display; and more. See http://bit.ly/1mEu2ku
Posted Jul 6, 2014, 2:57 AM by Unknown user
Bendigo GrantGraham Rankin writes:‘As some members may already know, the LBT has been successful in obtaining a grant from the Huon Valley Community Bank Grants programme to build another St Ayles skiff. A small group of members attended the presentation at the Bendigo Bank boardroom in Huonville of Friday evening. The Trust was one of nine recipients to be chosen from a field of over sixteen applications. The grant of $5,500.00 will cover the purchase of a kit, glues, paint and much of the timber for the new skiff. This project is a” community” build, similar to Cygnet’s and will involve the LBT, WOW and the wider community. A press release will appear this week in the …
Posted Jun 29, 2014, 5:31 PM by Unknown user
CLEAR OUT THAT SHED!!!!Franklinʼs Women on Water group is looking for donations of boating or fishing items to sell at our stall at the Kettering Maritime Market on 19 July 2014. All profits go towards hosting and running the international St Ayles Skiff regatta at Franklin in February 2015. Leave donated items at the Living Boat Trust in Franklin (in the big black box), or we will collect. For more information, phone Barb (0408 212495). To follow developments with the regatta watch the website: tasskiffie2015.org.
Posted Jun 26, 2014, 2:14 AM by Unknown user
Cartela is almost in FranklinShe arrived in Port Huon on schedule at 3.30pm on Thursday, and now awaits a high tide and final preparations before coming up to Franklin, possibly on the 4th of July. Will James has finished driving in the last of the piles against which she will be moored, so she should be snug when she finally does make it. A welcoming party is in planning.Geoff Steer has some very nice pics of Cartela’s arrival at http://port-huon.com.au/cartela/
Posted Jun 26, 2014, 9:23 PM by Unknown user
Latest on the WaterfrontThe Huonville floating fish and chip shop has arrived. An attempt to crane it onto the hard failed, so it has been moored in shallow water. Unfortunately It is only a temporary visit whilst the pontoons are inspected. Meanwhile David Nash has almost completed redecking the upstream finger of the marina – it is looking unnaturally flash.
Posted Jun 26, 2014, 1:28 AM by Unknown user
Is Seahorse coming out?To adapt Winston, seldom has something so small given so much grief to so many for so long, but Phil Dunning tells us that the propeller shaft has finally been coupled to the gearbox and that Seahorse should be able to be brought out from the under the verandah shortly. Congratulations to all concerned – every part was worn and wobbly, final tolerances were within thousandths of an inch, and it was never going to be easy.
Posted Jun 26, 2014, 6:04 PM by Unknown user
Membership Renewal NoticesLBT memberships lapse at the end of June and renewal notices have been sent out to all members with email addresses. If you believe you should have received one and did not please contact the secretary: sec@lbt.org.au For those who do not have email land mail notices will be sent out shortly.
Posted Jun 21, 2014, 4:41 PM by Richard Forster
Spring Bay newsOur friends at Spring Bay (Triabunna) have a new shed. Looks like a beauty. We are hoping to go up and visit them in early August – keep an ear open. Their June newsletter is attached at http://bit.ly/1rdZL0F
Posted Jun 19, 2014, 11:20 PM by Unknown user
First Aid Course (on the cheap!)Here is an opportunity to upgrade (or maintain) your skills. If you are prepared to commit to being available for the On the Water Program you can get a subsidy from the LBT. We are planning to run first aid courses on the following dates at Huon LINC: Fri 5th September; Sat 6th September; Tue 9th September; Wed 10th September; These will qualify participants for Provide/Apply First Aid (HLTAID003) and Provide Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) (HLTAID001). If you already have these certificates remember that that Apply First Aid requires renewal every three years, and Perform CPR must be renewed yearly. Cost will depend on how many people we get. Complete the form below (or at http://bit.ly/1ie2rLN) if …
Posted Jun 20, 2014, 4:25 PM by Richard Forster
Wanted: LBT Committee MembersThe Annual General Meeting for the LBT will be held on the evening of Saturday August 30th. At this time the current committee will step down and a new one will be elected (the normal procedure). We would ask all members to seriously consider nominating. The LBT needs your enthusiasm and good ideas. You are allowed to think about it, but if you just know you want to do it get a nomination form from http://bit.ly/1pKkhbD We are particularly looking for a new treasurer. This is a good opportunity to say thank you to Liz Emery for the two years she has put into the job. She has it ticking over like a well oiled machine, but …
Posted Jun 19, 2014, 5:16 PM by Unknown user
A real tawe nunnugah!Marine and Safety Tasmania Notice No.: M78-14Title: Aboriginal Canoe – River Derwent Valid From: 18/6/2014 Valid Until: 22/6/2014 Notice Content: Mariners are advised that a traditional Tasmanian Aboriginal canoe with asupport vessel will depart MONA at 17.00 on Friday, 20 June on an overnightjourney to Waterman’s Dock along the western shore of the River Derwent,arriving at 15.35 on Saturday, 21 June. Mariners should exercise caution when navigating in close proximity to the canoe and ensure wash is kept to aminimum. Be good to get some pictures of this one. For those who are wondering, ‘tawe nunnugah’ means ‘going’ by ‘canoe’. For all current MAST notices see http://bit …
Posted Jun 17, 2014, 7:08 PM by Unknown user
Need to be quickPat Synge points out the ‘Cygnet’ for sale on eBay: see http://bit.ly/1lHx2Rm . Looks like the auction ends on the 19th June. The Cygnet was built at Port Cygnet in 1925 by 3rd generation shipwright Tas Wilson for his own use. In 1948 another well known Tasmanian shipwright Alf Cuthbertson converted the Cygnet (for its then owner) to more of a cruising yacht which included lengthening to 31 foot on deck plus bowsprit. She has a 14 hp Nanni diesel motor. At the moment the highest bid is $3000.
Posted Jun 16, 2014, 5:28 AM by Unknown user
Looking for a Raid Boat?Paul has a boat which might suit: an Ian Oughtred designed ‘Acorn 15 comes with a registered (til Dec 14) trailer, new sail and I am asking $3900 ono – I am open to all offers’. Call him on 61 414 418 957.
Posted Jun 15, 2014, 10:23 PM by Unknown user
MHOOT NewsletterNews from organisations involved in maritime heritage from around the state – in other words mobs just like us: see http://bit.ly/1p6zFwV
Posted Jun 15, 2014, 7:27 PM by Unknown user
News from Nova ScotiaLBT stalwart David Ellis writes: ‘I could call it a water safety video….(how not to). My latest project is the little ketch at the beginning, launched 20 years after the hull was built and at the end of seven frenetic days with a mix of modern techniques and traditional pine tar on my part. Thanks to LBT for the ideas I picked up even when just watching with my hands in my pockets. Of interest is the demographic, and this in a town in an equivalent country position to, say, Dover. Maybe its due to the rum. More analytically the demographic is partly connected to tallships being homeported here. Includes a nice bit of footage for dory aficionados.‘See …
Posted Jun 15, 2014, 4:20 PM by Unknown user
The Nancy GangAt the committee meeting last Thursday night it was decided that ‘Nancy’ requires a dedicated team to manage and look after her. Some of the issues that require immediate attention include: licensing with MAST; meeting insurance requirements; safety and maintenance plans;business and operating plans (see http://bit.ly/1oT5loB for a draft); identifying qualified skippers; backup propulsion; fixing the cabin roof; mooring/shed. It was also decided to accept a proposal from Peter Heading to assist qualifying him so that he can skipper ‘Nancy’. There will be a meeting to discuss all of this and to form an ongoing ‘Nancy group’ at 5.30pm at the shed on Monday June 25th. And we can think about the group name …
Posted Jun 15, 2014, 3:32 PM by Richard Forster
Visit from the Cruising Yacht ClubThe Cruising Yacht Club paid us a visit on the Queens Birthday weekend, and the river and Marina were stiff with boats. Laurence put on a mini-diesel course followed by wine and bickies over at the chandlery, Brett Doubleday demonstrated some traditional wooden boat building skills, Ros and the kitchen team cooked up a storm for dinner and a good time was had by all our guests.
Posted Jun 15, 2014, 3:06 PM by Unknown user
Nancy gets her winter coatThe cover for ‘Nancy’, which was damaged whilst she was being trucked south, has now been repaired, and ‘Nancy‘ is snug underneath it. We particularly like the rabbit ears covering the running lights. In the meantime Peter Heading and Phil Dunning have managed to disconnect the shaft from the electric motor to the gearbox on the old Frisco engine. We thought extra sets of bearings might be required, but all seems to be well without them. This should result in quieter and more efficient running. You can see the disconnected ends in the not very satifactory picture below.
Posted Jun 13, 2014, 8:04 AM by Unknown user
Will we see Clara under sail?The restored 19th century racing yacht ‘Clara’ has been a gorgeous sight out on the river since she emerged from the Wooden Boat Centre workshop. Anastasia and Russ are currently hard at work on her rigging and sails. It would be good to see her taken for a sail on the Huon before she leaves us for Hobart.
Posted Jun 13, 2014, 6:12 PM by Unknown user
Syrah gets her bottom paintedPeter the painter has been hard at work on Syrah, and she is starting to look very smart. Her appropriately shiraz red sheer strake is a good match for her anti-foul. Hans Sipsma has made a very elegant curved tiller for her, and spars and other fittings are receiving their final coats of paint and varnish.
Posted Jun 13, 2014, 6:14 PM by Unknown user
BoomerangsA word from your committee to workshop users. The tools and materials in the shed are there to be used and shared by all. What that means is that we have to be a bit more organised, clean and tidy than in our own personal workshops (you should see mine). It also means that borrowed tools and materials should be returned as quickly as possible, and breakages reported so that they can be fixed. We will install a whiteboard/blackboard to help keep track, If we can find a space to put it. We will also instigate some (hopefully mild) security measures to discourage any more deliberate light fingeredness – the stock of celery pine has been decreasing more than can …
Posted Jun 12, 2014, 7:39 PM by Unknown user
FWWA NewsletterLots of news from the Franklin Working Waterfront Association – see http://bit.ly/1q5ETeg for the details. Amongst the highlights: acceptance ofthe business plan by State Government; the raising ofhalf the $350k required to purchase the Wooden Boat Centre andestablish a school there; a call for newcommittee members; invitation to aspecial committee meeting on the 19 June 2014 at 7pm at the Wooden BoatCentre; announcement of AGM, to be held Sunday 14 September 2014.
Posted Jun 11, 2014, 6:37 PM by Unknown user
Mystery BoatFrancis Lavaud writes: “Hello, I look for a wooden sailboat named “Antares” who is near Hobart. It’s an old vessel (38′) built in France under the plan of the naval architect Maurice Amiet. Do you know something about her? Thank you for your answer.” If you do have any answers email Francis at fc6lvd@gmail.com
Posted Jun 11, 2014, 4:56 PM by Unknown user
Wooden Boat Centre CoursesThinking about doing a formal course on the many skills required to build a wooden boat? Cam McPhee did the dinghy building course at the Wooden Boat Centre, and was so pleased with the result that he wrote all about it in the latest RACT Journey magazine. Worth a look. For more about the courses see http://bit.ly/1jeTBrI.
Posted Jun 9, 2014, 4:22 AM by Unknown user
Committee Meeting this ThursdayPlenty on the agenda already for the LBT committee to consider (see attached), but if you have a relevant item that you want us to address please email it to sec@lbt.org.au
Posted Jun 8, 2014, 4:26 PM by Unknown user
Register now for tawe nunnugah 2015The online expression of interest and boat registration forms have been added to the tn15 home page, and people have already started using them. Don’t miss out: head over to tn15.org now. And whilst there you can comment on the proposed poster and participate in the lively debate about whether ‘tawe nunnegah’ should be capitalised or not.
Posted Jun 6, 2014, 7:25 PM by Unknown user
First pile for the CartellaSounds like the start of an ugly medical condition, so why is Ross James looking so pleased? It’s because that treated hardwood post driven into the bed of the river behind him is the first of half a dozen needed to berth Cartella when she arrives in Franklin on June 26th, all being well. At 40 metres long she is going to be an impressive sight. Take care on the road: there will be cars veering all over the highway when the gawkers catch their first glimpse of her. For more news about the Cartella have a look at www.steamshipcartela.com.au . Photo from Steamship Cartella gallery
Posted Jun 3, 2014, 11:01 PM by Unknown user
Nancy in the Egg Island CanalIn the end the best way to find out whether Nancy would fit through the Egg Island canal was to try her out. At high tide she never had less than 1.2 metres of clear water under her keel, and she rounded the bends comfortably. Thumbs up (and chocks away). Photos from Graham Rankin
Posted Jun 3, 2014, 1:24 AM by Unknown user
Tasmania’s Maritime Heritage CoastWe have just been corresponding with Elizabeth Adkins of the Maritime Museum, which reminded us of what a good resource the museum is. See them online at http://www.maritimetas.org . We were particularly taken with their ‘Heritage Coast’ summary of local museums and attractions – a good place to point those visitors from the big island whom you want to get out of the house. See http://bit.ly/1htiEfS
Posted Jun 2, 2014, 5:06 PM by Unknown user
Stone CarvingDavid Barclay, who ran a successful stone carving course at the shed 12 months ago, is offering to do it all again in late July, early August. See a sample flyer for more details – http://bit.ly/1gV0AKR – and keep a hole in your diary if you are interested.
Posted Jun 1, 2014, 3:46 PM by Unknown user
More news from the diasporaJohanna and Georg, the young German back packers who spent time with us a couple of summers ago, keep up with our doings through the website from their home town on the Baltic. Johanna in particular hopes to come back to Tassie at some stage when she has completed her studies. She is laid up with a broken leg and has had time to send a couple of emails. Here are some extracts. ‘there is a picture with me and my sister carolina (10) age is so happy to have me back here – I don´t really think she will come to austral (to scared of those big huntsman spiders) …We went to volkswagen, wolfsburg 2 weeks ago – here you …
Posted Jun 1, 2014, 3:40 PM by Unknown user
A Stateside ConnectionPeter Laidlaw forwarded this video of the launch of a restored classic 1924 Fife Boat. Looks like the sort of vessel that the Great Gatsby and Daisy (plus staff, crew and dancing girls) would have sailed to Bermuda. Brendan Riordan, a past student of the boat school, was part the team who did the work. See http://bit.ly/1oCj45s
Posted Jun 3, 2014, 6:24 PM by Unknown user
Tassie T12 Family FunfestLyndaHolstein wrote to us to promote this worthwhile event, at the Huonville PCYC, 11am to 4pm this coming Sunday 1st of June. It is for her son, Neil Patterson. ‘Neilbecame a Paraplegic in 2011 at the age of 24 year. He has taken up sailing andset himself a goal to represent Australia in the Paralympics. We arefundraising at the moment to get Neil and his boat ‘Rocky’ to Canada for the‘International Association for Disabled Sailing (IFDS) World Sailing Championships’ inAugust this year.’ Read more about it on the Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/TassiesT12Fundraising
Posted May 29, 2014, 4:54 PM by Unknown user
Committed nowAt this end the plans might be a wee bit tentative, but the Scottish Coastal Rowing Association seem to have down pat the schedule for the St Ayles Skiff Regatta next February. See http://bit.ly/1hzBhJz . We suppose we had better do it now.
Posted May 29, 2014, 5:24 AM by Unknown user
Storm clouds on the horizonLiving Boat Trust memberships lapse at the end of each financial year (June) and renewal notices, including (ahem) a request for payment of annual dues, will be issued shortly. The money raised from these dues is an important part of the budget which allows us to continue operating, and we hope that most, if not all, members will rejoin. We have had a very successful 2013-2014, and the coming year is looking even better. On top of the normal boat building, regattas, expeditions, excursions and social events there are: the building of the verandah extension and boatshed; Tawe Nunnugah; the Australian Wooden Boat Festival; the commissioning of Nancy; a Riverfest to compliment the St Ayles Skiff regatta next February …
Posted May 27, 2014, 8:31 PM by Unknown user
Billy BuddNautical theme for the Palais ‘classic movie session’ this coming Sunday night (7pm). Quoting from the advertisement:‘This Sunday’s classic film is the action charged Billy Budd. This 1962 film has it all, men, mutiny, muscle and mayhem, one for the boys. Taken from the novella “Billy Budd Sailor” by the great writer Herman Melville (wrote Moby Dick, Miller died and it was left up to his missus to finish the novel….women’s work never done). Scripted, directed and starring Peter Ustinov as the shouty ship’s captain, Robert Ryan, sadistic master D’arms and Illya Kuryakin….sorry, I mean David McCallum (who apparently while playing Kuryakin in “The Man From U.N.C.L.E” TV series …
Posted May 26, 2014, 12:55 AM by Unknown user
Notice to MarinersNotice No.: M67-14 Title: Navigation Aid – Eggs and Bacon Bay Valid From: 26/5/2014 Valid Until: 26/9/2014 Notice Content: Mariners are advised that the green unlit starboard hand pile located at Eggs and Bacon Bay on the Huon River is destroyed. A further notice will be issued when the aid to navigation is re-established in position.
Posted May 26, 2014, 12:29 AM by Unknown user
Take Cover! The Kiwis are coming!Margy Porte has been busy issuing invitations to the 2015 StAyles Skiff Regatta,and, amongstother replies, received this salvo from the Kiwis. ‘Hi Margie,Short answer, is yes we will be there. At this stage, not sure who or how, but we will bring two boats at least and I’ll enquire with the Kaikoura team to gauge their ability to attend.You Aussies have a long legacy of cheating in sport , especially when NZ is involved, so we anticipate usual drug testing and Cascade beer will be the norm!!Looking forward to meeting you later in the year in NZ, kind regards,Mike Mahoney‘ It’s on – and they can’t say we started it, but we …
Posted May 25, 2014, 3:34 PM by Unknown user
SpookyWe were watching the famous ‘You’ll never walk alone’ scene in the musical Carousel when the camera panned to the left, and guess which vessel was moored there in the gloaming? Looks like there is more to Nancy’s provenance than we have been told about. Check it out at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=B7YhWIzd-gc
Posted May 22, 2014, 4:18 AM by Unknown user
Nancy on the ABC newsFor those who missed the news item on Tuesday 20th May, have a look at http://www.abc.net.au/news/2014-05-20/nancy-returns-home/5466138?section=tas
Posted May 21, 2014, 8:29 PM by Unknown user
Nancy is in Franklin!And what a welcome sight! All the things that could have gone wrong didn’t, and the things that needed to go right did. Nancy arrived on schedule before 10am, and went straight onto the Kermandie travelling lift and into the water. Martin Krynen checked for leaks and battery charge levels (remembering she has an electric motor) and all being well he set out for Franklin with a small crew and with Phil Dunning, Endra and John Walduck providing escort vessels. To forestall any issues with the electricals Phil provided a tow for much of the way, but really it wasn’t necessary. Nancy nosed up alongside our pontoon in the early afternoon, and there she nestles, as though she …
Posted May 22, 2014, 1:08 AM by Unknown user
The latest from the Australian Wooden Boat FestivalRead their most recent newsletter at http://bit.ly/1o6Dml0 . All sorts of stories – some covered already in this column, many not, definitely worth checking out.
Posted May 19, 2014, 5:25 AM by Richard Forster
The Franklin Working Waterfront‘Our’ John Young has written a really nice piece describing the ‘deep’ background and history which lead to the formation of the Franklin Working Waterfront Association. He goes on to describe the Association’s current priorities and activities. He presented this at the Association social on Sunday, and you can read it at http://bit.ly/1qOjdVh
Posted May 19, 2014, 5:19 AM by Richard Forster
Visit from Cruising Yacht ClubThey will be down for their annual visit on the 8th of June, and will be having at least one meal in the shed. There will be activities during the day and we will be looking for participants. More to come. Their itinerary is attached.
Posted May 18, 2014, 10:39 PM by Unknown user
St Ayles Skiffs at the AWBFWhilst the main home of the regatta will be Franklin, it is planned that the first series of events will be at the Australian Wooden Boat Festival. Read all about it on the regatta website at http://bit.ly/1qOgs6t
Posted May 18, 2014, 10:29 PM by Unknown user
Big Monday night coming upThe truck is on schedule to arrive at Port Huon and deliver ‘Nancy’ sometime on Monday morning May 19th. From there it should be onto the travel lift, into the water, some checking, maybe some recharging of batteries, and then off to Franklin with Phil Dunning providing escort. In the evening we will celebrate her arrival over dinner with her current owners and rescuers Martin and Judy Krynen. All welcome.
Posted May 19, 2014, 6:07 AM by Unknown user
Another thank youThis time to Paul Cullen of the Australian Wooden Boat Festival. On Chris Wisbey’s Sunday morning ABC radio show Paul told the listeners all about Nancy, and what a great thing it will be to have her on the Huon at the Living Boat Trust. He then went on to describe in glowing terms all the other maritime activities that are going on in Franklin – the marina, the Wooden Boat Centre, the Working Waterfront and its activities, the Yukon, the museum, the WOW group and the St Ayles Skiffs, and on it went. We already knew that Franklin is the centre of the wooden boat universe, but now the ABC audience does to. http://www.australianwoodenboatfestival.com.au/
Posted May 18, 2014, 7:26 AM by Unknown user
A big thank you to Rowing Tasmania The WOW group have well advanced plans for a St Ayles Skiff Regatta for the weekend following the Australian Wooden Boat Festival, as the readers of this column will know. What you may not know is that these plans were suddenly thrown into disarray because of a clash with a schools rowing event. Fortunately for us this event has been rescheduled. We know how busy the rowing calendar is, and this must have been a difficult change for Rowing Tasmania to make. All we can say to them is thank you. None of the compromises we could make to avoid this clash worked very well. We can now look forward to a really big festival weekend in which we hope …
Posted May 17, 2014, 4:15 PM by Unknown user
Get your Saturday MercuryYou’ll have to purchase your own copy: the juicy bits in a great article about Nancy by Jocelyn Fogagnolo have been greyed out in the accompanying clip.
Posted May 17, 2014, 1:43 AM by Unknown user
Funeral for Parj SaturdayFrom the ‘Mercury’: ‘PARGITER. Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to attend a service to celebrate the life of Mr Simon Russell Pargiter which will be held at our Chapel and Crematorium, 71 Letitia Street North Hobart on Saturday (May 17, 2014) commencing at 12.30pm No flowers by request.’
Posted May 14, 2014, 5:47 PM by Unknown user
‘Lucy’ is out of the shed in the waterNot an LBT boat, but one in which we have taken a lot of interest, Crystal and Gerwin’s ‘Lucy’ was launched at Port Huon on Monday. Thanks to John Walduck for pics
Posted May 13, 2014, 5:46 PM by Unknown user
Simon Pargiter (Parj) has passed awayWe will all miss his cheerful presence on Monday evenings. ‘Viking’, the boat he contributed to the Trust, is well on the way to restoration and will be a good way to remember him. Parj had a mind like a steel trap when it came to Tasmanian maritime history, and ‘Viking’, in its small way, is part of that history.
Posted May 11, 2014, 6:46 PM by Richard Forster
Franklin Working Waterfront SocialAnne Kovaks writes: Dear FWWA member, You are invited to our *** SOCIAL GET TOGETHER *** 12PM, SUNDAY 18 MAY at the LIVING BOAT TRUST, FRANKLIN Come along and enjoy some fine food and company, meet members, donors and other supporters, hear what’s going on and share your ideas. There is a fair bit of news, concerning the Cartela, the Wooden Boat Centre, and fund raising. This would be a good opportunity for those of us who are enthusiastic about development along the river front to join the FWWA.
Posted May 11, 2014, 7:57 AM by Richard Forster
On the scroungeTony Cooper lead a scavenger hunt over to Kettering Marina last week, and we may be able to get some useful material for building pontoons and boathouses from over there. If you know of any other sources of said material please let us know.
Posted May 11, 2014, 7:22 AM by Richard Forster
The scraping ‘n sanding ‘n painting challengeWe don’t attempt anything on the scale of this monster, thank goodness, which was seen on a recent visit to Kettering. Must be like the Sydney Harbour Bridge.
Posted May 11, 2014, 7:11 AM by Richard Forster
MilestonesThe Sea Knight has had the beer fridge installed. Now that IS significant. Thanks to Graham Wright for pics
Posted May 6, 2014, 10:50 PM by Unknown user
Worth saving?Bob Elliston of Bruny Island writes:‘I know that the LBT has more than enough projects to keep everyone very busy, but I’m writing to you in the hope that you may know of someone who might be interested in helping to rescue and/or restore a 100 year old, 33 foot, wooden boat that washed ashore on Quarantine Point on Bruny Island as a result of a storm and a broken mooring chain.The boat’s name is “Sunbeam” and I believe she has a Huon Pine hull. I will attach some photos that I took of the boat on Quarantine point.’Peter Laidlaw for one is keen. He is mounting an expedition to have a closer look …
Posted May 6, 2014, 3:08 AM by Unknown user
a breezy day on the mediterraneanPeter Hill has this print on his wall, and thinks that he has detected the origins of the St Ayles Skiff in the dinghy pictured: we are not so sure. We also think that the caption writer was indulging his taste for British understatement. This is a Pears Soap advertisement. Presumably there is a grubby child lurking in the bilges if you look hard. (For this and others similar see pears prints.com)
Posted May 6, 2014, 10:51 PM by Unknown user
Nancy is comingMartin Krynen, the restorer and owner of Nancy, writes that she ‘is booked to be picked up on Monday 12th May at 7.30am’. This has been a bit of a saga: to those who have forgotten (or who don’t know), Nancy is a motor launch/ferry built in 1917 for the Rowes of Brooks Bay on the Huon. Martin was looking for a Tasmanian home for her, and the Living Boat Trust are the very lucky (and grateful) beneficiaries of his generosity. We look forward to seeing her soon.The pic below shows Nancy being loaded for transport on a previous occasion. The second pic shows her cover – she should be able to survive the rigors of a …
Posted May 5, 2014, 5:02 PM by Unknown user
Some like ’em smallTess, Laura and Annette are very sensibly trying out their boat building ideas and techniques on a model before going to the trouble and expense of something full size.
Posted May 3, 2014, 11:27 PM by Unknown user
St Ayles Skiff Regatta, 2015Those of us who have trouble planning what we are going to do after lunch can only regard the WOW group with awe – they are already mapping out February next year. The weekend after the Australian Wooden Boat Festival looks like a great time for a regatta. See the web page tasskiffie2015.org for Jane Johnson’s draft schedule, and for more details as they emerge. The idea is to make this regatta the key event for a larger Huon Riverfest – a more focussed ‘Focus on Franklin’ – in which the LBT would have a big part. Stay tuned. Thanks to Nell Tyson for pic
Posted May 3, 2014, 11:29 PM by Unknown user
LBT Committee Meeting next ThursdayIf you want to put something on the Agenda contact the secretary: sec@lbt.org.au . A reminder that minutes of previous meetings can be found on this website: from the menu choose Resources=>Committee_Minutes
Posted May 1, 2014, 5:49 AM by Unknown user
Franklin VillageIt mightn’t look like much now, but the Salamanca end of Franklin Wharf will be transformed into the “Franklin Village” for the Australian Wooden Boat Festival in February next year, just like last time but better. David Pittaway (LBT member and former president) is organising – his latest email is attached.
Posted May 1, 2014, 4:55 AM by Unknown user
Meanwhile back at the workshop…Viking is being scraped, sanded, patched and splined. There was a chance that it was the dust and rust that were holding her together, but so far so good – she seems to be fairly sound. Syrah, on the other hand, is getting final fittings and coats of paint. Glynn and Hans seem very concerned about the design of the tiller, but we a sure they will come up with a good solution. See pics below. Thanks to Graham Wright for pics
Posted May 3, 2014, 11:20 PM by Unknown user
Princess DennisOne of the many exotic people at David Nash’s ‘Pirates and Princess’s’ birthday party.
Posted Apr 28, 2014, 6:16 AM by Unknown user
Time to sign upFrom the AWBF: ‘Applications are now open for the 2015 MyState Australian Wooden Boat Festival. Last time around, we saw around 550 registered wooden boats and 200,000 visitors and there’s no reason to expect we will be any less busy this coming February. The dates are 6-9 February 2015 – four days of excitement and entertainment on the beautiful River Derwent. The website gateway is here:http://www.australianwoodenboatfestival.com.au/get-involved/register-your-boat’
Posted Apr 28, 2014, 5:56 AM by Unknown user
Concert (in a good cause)Looks like a good night out coming up at Willy Smith’s on Saturday 10th of May, with Cary Lewincamp providing the musical entertainment. For more details see the brochure attached below. Here is a sample of Cary playing at Salamanca:
Posted Apr 28, 2014, 6:02 PM by Unknown user
Kitchen UpgradeWhilst we are waiting for the approval of our plans for the shed extension, the upgrade of the kitchen will go ahead. Attached is a plan prepared by Hans Sipsma.
Posted May 4, 2014, 8:39 PM by Unknown user
Boat CoolingTony Webster is moving from the Franklin Marina, and is hosting the normal Monday evening dinner aboard his boat (pictured) on the 28th April as a farewell. He’s tied up to the upstream marina jetty. Thanks for this Tony – we are looking forward to it, but we hope we aren’t losing you from the Trust. Lots of sea fare on the menu.
Posted Apr 26, 2014, 4:36 PM by Unknown user
Double take timeIf you’ve wandered into the Wooden Boat Centre recently and wondered what is missing, you will find it is currently moored to the pontoon. The Adrian Dean designed Peggy has been a very long term project, but she has finally been launched and is awaiting her rigging before going off to her new owners in Hobart. She does look a picture. Congratulations to Peter Heading and all the other boat builders who have worked on her.
Posted Apr 26, 2014, 4:38 PM by Unknown user
Out with the old, in with the newHaving done yeoman’s service over the years the (real) laminex table inherited from the Youngs has been replaced in the kitchen by a brand new steel one, which is already in service. Thanks to the Franklin Progress association who sponsored this improvement: another step towards getting certification for the kitchen.
Posted May 13, 2014, 5:03 AM by Unknown user
Burning BridgesAs a definitive statement that they have finished their boat and are launching, Gerwin and Crystal were selling up their carpentry tools at our recent Boot ‘n Boat sale. We notice that they were also selling their editions of ‘Blue Water Sailing’ and ‘Emergency Navigation’, so they are obviously feeling confident. This has been a very long term project, commencing with a course at the Wooden Boat Centre. Many of us have dropped in to admire their work over the years, and look forward to seeing it afloat.
Posted Apr 19, 2014, 12:50 AM by Unknown user
HBG off to a new homeThe winner of the raffle has collected his prize, waves and all. Picture from Martin Kell
Posted Apr 19, 2014, 12:53 AM by Unknown user
Easter Monday Working Bee/Dinner at LBTCome along on Monday evening for a bit of work and a healthy meal from Hans Sipsma to balance those Easter egg excesses.
Posted Apr 19, 2014, 4:14 PM by Unknown user
The LBT retail armThe chap in the background may be walking away, but Dennis Muscovich has the interest of another customer as he disposes of the remnants of the ‘Boot and Boat Sale’ at Mountain River Market. Thanks Dennis – its these sorts of efforts that are helping to float the LBT boat. We like the product placement on the stall: the ‘Fab’ and ‘Willy Smith’ boxes. We will try to hit up both corporations for sponsorship.
Posted Apr 19, 2014, 6:06 PM by Unknown user
News from Spring BayOne of the great things about Focus on Franklin was that it was an opportunity to catch up with old friends, including a group from the Spring Bay Community Boat Shed based at Triabunna (springbaycommunityboatshed.weebly.com). They are very excited by the prospect of moving to new and larger premises where they will have more security of tenure, and are planning a shed warming in July. We look forward to our invitation. They also sent us the accompanying picture of Terra Linna leading a fleet of modern yachts at the Cygnet Regatta.
Posted Apr 10, 2014, 1:11 AM by Unknown user
Come in from the coldThis plan has been a long time in gestation, but Viking is finally under the verandah and being stripped to make her ready for repair and repainting. She might look like Scuffy the Tugboat, but of all the vessels at the LBT she has the most significant history – read about at http://bit.ly/1haN83W
Posted Apr 7, 2014, 10:41 PM by Unknown user
Mountain River Market, Sunday 13th AprilCan you help? Dennis Muscovich and his offsider Parj did a mighty job at the Focus on Franklin Boot and Boat sale, raising hundreds of dollars for the LBT. The good news is that there was stock left over, meaning that even more money can be raised at the Mountain River market. The bad news is that Parj is not well enough to help out this time around, so Dennis needs assistance anytime on Saturday 12th to get the truck loaded up at his place in Glen Huon. As a sweetener he is offering to show off his Tasmaniana collection to any helpers. We believe this is a real Aladdin’s cave, so are anxious to hear reports. Dennis can …
Posted Apr 16, 2014, 5:13 PM by Unknown user
Anzac weekend at Randalls Bay called offAfter the success of the expedition to the Kettering Wooden Boat Rally back in February many of us thought we should do something similar again, and that the best opportunity was the Anzac day long weekend, 25-27th April. Trouble was that our planning time got taken up with the Focus on Franklin, the raffle and all the other activities that are going on at the moment. There was a meeting at 6pm Monday night (7th April) at the Shed to see if we could revive the idea, but when it was pointed out that this clashed with David Nash’s 50th birthday party it was decided that we would not proceed.
Posted Apr 7, 2014, 2:02 PM by Unknown user
Wooden Boat Festival NewsletterThe latest, with reports from Wooden Boat Rallies at Kettering (that storm) and Launceston, Cygnet Regatta, weather patterns in Bass Strait and more. Some gorgeous and dramatic pictures. For those wanting to enter boats in the festival there are also boat registration dates. Find it at http://bit.ly/QRnk35
Posted Apr 5, 2014, 9:13 PM by Unknown user
News from the Working Water FrontThe Franklin Working Waterfront Association (FWWA – http://fwwatas.org/) are currently in the thick of an all out effort to raise the money required to purchase the Wooden Boat Centre. This is an exciting initiative, and an important one for the Living Boat Trust. To find out all about it read the attached documents. Even better, join the FWWA and come along to the special general meeting on Wednesday 16th April 2014 at 7pm in the Franklin Primary School library. The FWWA secretary Anne Kovach can be contacted at anne@eradiate.com.au. Documents: Overview: http://bit.ly/QRjQO4 Mercury editorial: http://bit.ly/1lIcyJ4Business Plan: http://bit.ly/QRjVkV For Financial Supporters: http://bit.ly/QRk1c4
Posted Apr 5, 2014, 9:36 PM by Unknown user
Opportunity to buy cheap Derwent SkiffBoat designer and builder Allan Witt writes: Derwent Raider number 4 is being built for a customer in QLD. Derwent Raiders are the ultimate light-weight rowing/sailing recreation/adventure boats. Due to personal reasons, the customer is now unlikely to be able to use his new boat and is looking for somebody to buy it. They are very keen to sell very quickly and are prepared to accept $14,500. This is a discount of over $6,000!. You are welcome to see and discuss the boat directly with me (0408 331 510).
Posted Apr 7, 2014, 2:35 PM by Unknown user
The Raffle has been drawn!And won by a resident of Dunoon who was notified by speaker phone at last night’s dinner so that we could all give him a cheer. Sounds as though HBG is going to a good and appreciative home. Thanks to all who have participated in the raffle, particularly Peter Hill for painting, Steve Campbell for his marketing, Graham Rankin for organising, and Annette and Aspen and many others for getting out there and selling the tickets.
Posted Apr 1, 2014, 3:22 AM by Unknown user
Day 2 on the water with Nell TysonSome beauties from day 2 of Focus on Franklin: http://bit.ly/1khfMz7
Posted Apr 1, 2014, 2:58 AM by Unknown user
Focus on Franklin Day TwoThere was a bleary eyed start to the morning for many, after an excess of enjoyment at the lit boat parade the night before, but the marquee quickly filled with goods to sell at the ‘Boot and Boat’ sale, sausages were sizzled, and the St Ayles Skiff Regatta got underway. It was another wonderful day, with many a bargain transacted at the sale, many teams competing in the match racing at the rowing ways, and the promised jazz band serenading the huddled masses (well it was getting chilly) from the deck of the Yukon in the evening. Thanks are due to many but Jane Johnson should be particularly singled out for organising a really special ‘Focus’ this year.For a …
Posted Mar 30, 2014, 1:30 PM by Unknown user
Monday Night Dinner: Dick Geeves to draw raffleDick, who built the ‘HBG’ rowing skiff which is the raffle prize, has agreed to do the draw. Should be a good climax to the evening.
Posted Mar 30, 2014, 6:10 AM by Unknown user
Focus on Franklin Day OneWe are sure that there were lots of highlights about town, but we barely had time to register them we were so busy with our own. Thanks to everybody who made the day a success. Di and Ian from Pied Piper up to their ears in potatoes and peelings whilst they prepared for the curry were an unforgettable site. The following photographs illustrate some of the activities at the LBT. Peter Cook, Maxine Oates and John Young, three of the eleven contestants for the Roger Harwood Trophy, prepare for the grueling dinghy race around Egg Island. Maxine ultimately triumphed, convincingly leading the field home. Ninka and Peter Laidlaw in the Flying FIfteen set off after the leaders of the Rat …
Posted Mar 31, 2014, 4:28 AM by Unknown user
Allan’s RaiderOn Monday night Allan Witt brought along a partially constructed Derwent Raider so that we could see the structure before the deck goes on. It certainly helped explain why these double skinned boats are so light and buoyant as well as being so strong. You can find out more about Allan’s boats at http://rowandsail.com.au/
Posted Mar 24, 2014, 6:30 PM by Richard Forster
Attn Sailors: Dover Regatta:18th – 20th AprilDavid Wood from Port Esperance Sailing Club writes:We have events for racing boats, cruising boats, off-the-beach boats (dinghies), and classic boats which are all either distance races or “around the buoys” races. The best event for the Grebe dinghies would be the Noel Doepel Classic Yachts Trophy which is an around the buoys race on the Sunday afternoon. Entry forms are available on our website www.pesc.com.au.Sounds like a good opportunity to get out on the water.
Posted Mar 25, 2014, 3:52 PM by Unknown user
Get on the water at Focus on FranklinLots of opportunities to ‘get nautical’ this coming weekend. On Saturday the big event is the Roger Harwood Trophy – the dinghy race for single scullers around Egg Island that has become a tradition. There will also be a dinghy sailing race (around Rat Island), and time trials in Swiftsure. On Sunday Women on the Water have organised a St Ayles Skiff Regatta. Swan (from Cygnet) will be making her first appearance at Franklin, and we are hoping as many teams as possible will sign up for time trials/races. Get your entry form from http://bit.ly/1ghw7QQGet the latest festival program (including all water events) from http://bit.ly/1dRNWpg
Posted Mar 27, 2014, 2:50 PM by Unknown user
Reminder: Boot and Boat Sale Sunday 30th MarchA chance to clear the garage and spare room of all those bits and pieces, boaty or otherwise, which you know will be useful ‘one day’. Bring ’em along, sell them at your own stall, or contribute them to the LBT stall. If you can be involved in the day (selling, providing morning tea, cooking snags) please submit your name through the form below, or email Ros Barnett at ros@lbt.org.au, or call her on 0448 316618.
Posted Mar 22, 2014, 3:29 PM by Unknown user
Raffle to be drawn Monday 31st MarchPlease get your ticket butts, money and unsold tickets in so that we can collate them. If there is nobody at the shed to collect them put them in the yellow box beside the kitchen door, or mail them to P.O. Box 79 Franklin 7113. The Raffle will be drawn two days later than advertised at our Monday evening dinner so that we are clear of the Focus on Franklin festival.
Posted Mar 22, 2014, 2:59 PM by Unknown user
Lateline brings Franklin to national TVIf you missed the program (Thursday 13th) you can catch up on iView at http://ab.co/1kHdZEs . Fast forward to the 12 minute and 20 second mark. They roped in some of the usual suspects, as the pictures indicate.
Posted Mar 18, 2014, 11:34 PM by Unknown user
Readvertising event at Palais: Evening of Friday 21st MarchWe dropped into the Palais today (Wednesday) to discover that there is a LOT of effort being put into this event. We are not sure what it is all about, but it looks like it will be highly suitable for we nautical types. See the invitation at http://bit.ly/1lNhFV9 and RSVP.
Posted Mar 19, 2014, 3:06 PM by Unknown user
Wanted: Wooden Boat Centre GuidesYvonne Gamlin writes:We are just wondering if you have any members who might be interested in doing a half day volunteering as a guide for the Centre. would you be able to canvas interest through the Newsletter.Sounds like a good thing to do. There are number of LBT members who have worked for the Wooden Boat Centre – might be worth speaking with them if you are interested. Photo by Ralph Cruickshank
Posted Mar 16, 2014, 8:46 PM by Unknown user
Two Weeks to Raffle DrawPlease bring your ticket butts, money and unsold tickets to the shed so that we can collate them. Put them in the yellow box beside the kitchen. If that is not possible post them too us: P.O. Box 79FranklinTas 7113If you are able to return tickets late (eg at Focus on Franklin) please try and sell as many tickets as possible over the next two weeks. We will be drawing the raffle on Monday evening 31st of March, 2 days after the advertised date. This will give people attending Focus on Franklin a chance to participate.
Posted Mar 16, 2014, 2:21 PM by Unknown user
Free event at Palais, Franklin, Friday evening 21st MarchJohn Walduck alerted us to this:CGU INSURANCE & THE PALAIS THEATREpresentsA Celebration For The Community The team from CGU are delighted to invite the community of Franklin and beyond to an evening of local food, wine, music and entertainment at The Palais Theatre. This is a free event.Friday 21 March, 2014 – from 6.30 until 10pm. The Palais Theatre, High Street, Franklin.RSVP to rsvpwillorourke@gmail.com by Tuesday 18th March
Posted Mar 13, 2014, 9:17 PM by Unknown user
Lots of boats at CygnetThe sail past for the 150th celebrations was an impressive site, and some of the participants were quite familiar. Pictures from Bob Hawkins
Posted Mar 13, 2014, 9:00 PM by Unknown user
Franklin’s vision: a blend of wood and windBob Hawkins has written a nice piece for the Tasmanian Times. SOMETHING very exciting is happening to Franklin, prettily strung along the western shore of the Huon, a few kilometres south of Huonville, administrative HQ of the stunning Huon Valley… Read more at – http://bit.ly/1fuD1S0
Posted Mar 13, 2014, 8:46 PM by Unknown user
“Cygnet” Turns Into a Beautiful SwanJane Johnson sent the following. Say “St AylesSkiff” and the Huon Valley is starting to see double! Cygnettownship proudly launched Tasmanian St Ayles Skiff Number 2 at a veryspecial ceremony on March 1st at the CygnetSailing and Yacht Club. On behalf of the “Womenon Water” Franklin-based group it was a pleasure to be “specialinvitees”. All who attended were impressed with the workmanship inthe skiff’s sleek design, paint and special finishing touches. The“Cygnet” skiff was named “The Swan”. The townships gatheredto share the community spirit and pride in being part of the project.It was an obvious demonstration of the success of a health andwell-being grant administered …
Posted Mar 13, 2014, 9:01 PM by Unknown user
Three weeks to Raffle DrawThe Raffle will be drawn at the Focus on Franklin festival. This is an important fund raising venture for the Trust and we ask everybody to make an effort to sell tickets in the remaining time. We will need to collect outstanding ticket butts in the final week of March. To remind yourself of what a good prize is at stake see the attached poster.
Posted Mar 9, 2014, 2:44 PM by Unknown user
Enter a team for the St Ayles Skiff RegattaThe regatta is to be held during Focus on Franklin, Sunday 30th March. To be part of it fill out the entry form at http://bit.ly/1ghw7QQ and return it using the details supplied. There is a real groundswell around the St Ayles Skiffs, with Cygnet launching theirs, and Taroona on the way. Those of us who have only recently started rowing in them are realising why.
Posted Mar 8, 2014, 1:06 PM by Unknown user
It must be official: Boot ‘n Boat Sale is onWill Hallinan has put the roadside signs out, so that is it: bung it in the diary for Sunday 30th March at the LBT. We hope this will be similar to, and just as successful as the last sale, with the added bonus that it will be part of the Focus on Franklin Festival, and the St Ayles Skiff regatta which will be happening at that same time. Spread the word. The theme is nautical, so if you have a boat or boating gear to sell, bring it along. This is also a good opportunity to do something with all that stuff which you no longer need but which is cluttering the garage (the ‘boot’ part of the sale). If …
Posted Mar 6, 2014, 7:30 PM by Unknown user
The LBT TractorVery useful when there is something heavy, like the newly painted Rowan, to move. Rowan has never looked smarter than she does now in her new stealth mode livery, and with her posh new back seats. Thank you Peter Hill and all the other brush wielders and carpenters. Pictures from Nell Tyson and Graham Wright
Posted Mar 6, 2014, 7:30 PM by Unknown user
Come and try out a ‘semi skinny boat’ on Monday nightThose of us who went on the recent LBT ‘sail in company’ to Kettering were mightily impressed with the performance of the Derwent Raider skippered by Allan Witt and the Derwent Skiff skippered by Julian Robertson. These boats have sliding seats and are very effective for rowing – the Raider can also be sailed. Allan is bringing a boat down on Monday night (March 10th) to demonstrate and for us to try out. I for one am looking forward to the opportunity.
Posted Mar 5, 2014, 2:07 PM by Unknown user
Tawe Nunnugah 2014 VideoThe first three minutes of Martin’s three and a half minute movie can be viewed at http://bit.ly/1om47Qd . Martin has done a great job of condensing this down, it’s just unfortunate that we are currently missing the end because of limitations within Flickr. Hopefully the administrator will fix this when he gets the chance.
Posted Mar 4, 2014, 2:49 PM by Unknown user
Franklin Working Waterfront ConcertSee you all at the Palais on the evening of the 15th of March. Attached poster has all the details, but looks like a great lineup: The Tasmanian Heritage Fiddle Ensemble, As the Crow Flies, Sea Shanty Trio, Craggs, Hannah May, John Hughes, Devon Robson, Philip Rush, Alan Welsh, and Marc Smith.
Posted Mar 4, 2014, 4:37 PM by Unknown user
The Grebe fleet at CygnetIt’s all action over at Cygnet for the 150th celebrations: boat launchings, rowing and sailing regattas, barbeques and balls. Into the midst of this, mother duck Vardo shepherded her little brood of Grebes, which are now safely tied up alongside the yacht club pontoon ready for their part in the activities. Thank you Peter Heading.
Posted Mar 1, 2014, 9:47 PM by Unknown user
Notice to Mariners: Cygnet RegattaNotice No. M40-14; Title: Port Cygnet Sailing Club 2014 Regatta; Valid From: 28/2/2014; Valid Until: 10/3/2014. Notice Content: Port Cygnet Sailing Club will be conducting their 150th Anniversary Regatta from 1-9 March. On Sunday, 9 March there will be an exclusion zone from the public jetty 200m north and 500m south. The start finish line is level with the public jetty.Mariners are also advised the public jetty is accessible only to the Tall Ships involved with the Regatta, as arranged with the Port Cygnet Sailing Club.
Posted Feb 27, 2014, 4:52 PM by Unknown user
Extending the shedThe LBT has received funding to extend our workshop with a new enclosed verandah on the south side of the main building, and to improve the verandah on the north side. Follow progress at http://bit.ly/MsFKnx , or by choosing Workshop from the menu, then Verandah Extension
Posted Feb 25, 2014, 10:10 PM by Unknown user
Wanted: dinghy rowing and sailing instructorsCygnet yacht club are looking for sailing and rowing instructors for next Monday morning 3rd March between 9am and 1.30pm. It’s for novice level senior primary age students. Rowing will be in our Grebes, sailing in the Port Cygnet Pacers. Lunch provided. Join Peter and Ewan Laidlaw, who have already volunteered, by completing the form below or email sec@lbt.org.au, or contact Rob Banfield 629 76371, mobile 0458 061 003, email rob_banfield@hotmail.com.
Posted Feb 25, 2014, 10:24 PM by Unknown user
Should this be our next boat project?Peter Heading points out this Tad Roberts designed 24′ open ketch which was used to sail and row roughly 2000 miles in three months from Seattle to Alaska and back. Our own open rowing/sailing Swiftsure highlighted the advantages of such boats for expeditions on our recent excursion to Kettering. And the price is right – the plans are free! Read all about it at http://bit.ly/1fobHu6
Posted Feb 24, 2014, 11:59 PM by Unknown user
You thought we were kidding about Will and JacquieWe weren’t, and not only that they have made a most generous offer for which the Living Boat Trust is very grateful. Read on: here is the Liberal party press release.Liberals’ deliver for Living Boat Trust. A majority Liberal Government will provide The Living Boat Trust with $20,000 for a pontoon and small boat ramp to enable the elderly and small children to get on and off boats more safely. The Living Boat Trust at Franklin is a terrific not for profit community organisation whose membership mainly consists of pensioners, retirees and the unemployed. They provide skills, companionship and a social meeting place for people from Hobart to Dover. The Living Boat Trust has a strong community …
Posted Feb 25, 2014, 3:47 PM by Unknown user
Focus on Franklin, March 29-30Jane Johnson has set up a very nice planning website at http://focusonfranklin.org/ . The following activities for the LBT are being considered.On the Saturday: the Roger Harwood rowing race around Egg Island; general rowing; rowing and sailing races; food stalls; solar light boat parade.On the Sunday: Boot and Boat Sale; food stalls; St Ayles Skiff Regatta. Keep your diary free – there will be more to come. If you can help out with any of this it would be appreciated: contact the secretary sec@lbt.org.au
Posted Mar 4, 2014, 3:16 PM by Unknown user
Everybody wants a photo opportunity with the LBTLast week it was Will Hodgeman and Jacquie Petrusma posing in front of the dinghies, this week guess who?
Posted Feb 22, 2014, 10:45 PM by Unknown user
Stand clear on TuesdaysIt’s all a bit frenetic. Boats being unloaded, dinghies fitted out, more coats of paint being applied, expeditions arriving and departing. What’s happening to the sleepy old LBT? Pictures from Graham Wright.
Posted Feb 20, 2014, 10:00 PM by Unknown user
Shed Envy TimeGraham Rankin writes: Around seven of us young’uns joined 112 old guys from other men’s sheds for a jaw dropping tour of the Incat facilities, with the tour being led by the founder, Bob Clifford, who has agreed to be the patron of Tasmanian Men’s Shed Association. After the oohs, aahs and wows had subsided we put shed envy aside for look at the construction of vessel on order to a Japanese customer. The scale and size of these ships is incredible, as is the shed they build them in! Some discussion ensued as to how many aluminium drink cans it would take to complete one. All in all a very enjoyable and informative afternoon and a …
Posted Feb 20, 2014, 3:47 PM by Unknown user
Old Sea Dogs (of the LBT)Andrew Wilson, who recently came to Monday night dinner to present his book ‘Old Sea Dogs of Tasmania’, has put his photos from the TN14 expedition on line. See them at http://www.aiprintgallery.com/clients.html – you will need to enter the gallery id kettering . If you want high resolution versions order them through the website (Andrew is a professional photographer). Other expedition photos are at http://bit.ly/MVcfLL
Posted Feb 17, 2014, 4:11 PM by Unknown user
Excursion to Cygnet Regatta?The ‘cruise in company’ to the Kettering Wooden Boat Rally has generated cries of ‘Do it again, and soon!’. ‘Soon’ could be the weekend of March 1-2. Leave the wheels at home and arrive in style at the Cygnet Regatta under sail or oar, then make the return trip the next day (hopefully wafted home by a sea breeze). We won’t have the Grebes available to us (they will already be at Cygnet), but Swiftsure will be, and doubtless there will be other private boats. If you are keen to participate complete the form below, or at http://bit.ly/1bfx9As , or email the secretary: sec@lbt.org.au . The event will proceed depending on the enthusiasm expressed …
Posted Feb 18, 2014, 2:13 PM by Unknown user
Ball at Cygnet Town Hall, March 1stJane Walduck forwards the following: This is an invitation to you all to a night of fun and music and dancing (if you do that) at the Cygnet Town Hall from 7pm til midnight on Saturday 1st March. The ball is a double celebration of the 150th Cygnet Regatta AND 100 years anniversary of the Cygnet Town Hall. The dress for the night – nautical/historical/glamorous – so plenty of opportunity there. Anyone who needs a bit of help can call on my dress up boxes, but you may already have the necessary from the centenary ball and others at the Palais. Music – provided by the Matthew Ives Big Band and “16 to 61” so non stop all night, even if …
Posted Feb 17, 2014, 1:08 PM by Unknown user
Tassal Information DayDate: Saturday 22nd February 2014 Time: 10am – 2pm Tassal is continuing to invest in its properties and farms throughout the state and seeking stakeholder input regarding an upcoming proposed amendment to the Marine Farm Development Plan for the D’Entrecasteaux Channel. Community members and other interested parties are invited to an information day at the Dover District High School Hall to learn more about the company’s investment plans for its Southern Regions Community feedback is welcomed. Tassal employees will be available to answer questions and receive feedback. Boat tours will be leaving the Dover Jetty at regular intervals during the open day, starting at 10 am, with the last tour leaving at 1.00pm. For further information please contact …
Posted Feb 17, 2014, 2:09 PM by Unknown user
HBG RaffleThe picture below shows Annette Cauchi selling another raffle ticket at the weekend regatta. The ‘HBG’ raffle is one of the LBT’s major fund raising efforts, and we need to sell as many tickets as possible before the draw at ‘Focus on Franklin’ on the last weekend in March. Please help. If you do not already have a book there are plenty at the shed – just ask, or contact Graham Rankin: 0400 334216 or woodenboatfreak@gmail.com . We will continue to sell tickets at markets, events, festivals etc. If you can help out with this contact Graham, or submit your name through the form below, or at http://bit.ly/1dUZ3fQ
Posted Feb 15, 2014, 6:06 PM by Unknown user
The Southern Regional Gathering for 2014We MAY be able to attend this Men’s Shed event if we respond quickly. Email sec@lbt.org.au if you are interested.Whose got the biggest shed in Tasmania? Shed users from across Tasmania are invited to the Southern Gathering, and a tour of the Incat facilities in Derwent Park, with TMSA Patron Bob Clifford. When: Thursday 20 February 2014 Meet in the Car Park, 2.15 pm for a 2.30 tour 18 Bender Drive, Derwent Park The tour will be followed by afternoon tea Please RSVP to Ken Sulman, Southern area Representative for the TMSA board. Ken Sulman – TMSA Southern Region Co-ordinator Mob: 0409136268 vk7dyken@gmail.com Tasmanian Men’s Shed Association Inc. Whose got …
Posted Feb 17, 2014, 1:40 PM by Unknown user
Reflecting on TN 14 Find ‘TN 14 on Swiftsure – A Tribute to Community’ written by Hans Sipsma, one of our most experienced sailors, at http://bit.ly/MVbMcy . Pictures are also starting to come in: see http://bit.ly/MVcfLL . All this and more (feedback from participants etc) available on the tn14.org website, or by clicking on the ‘Tawe Nunnugah’ link at the top of the LBT homepage.
Posted Feb 15, 2014, 6:07 PM by Unknown user
Notice to Mariners – Rowing Regatta – Huon River FranklinNotice Content: A Rowing Regatta will be held on the Huon River at Franklin on Saturday, 15 andSunday, 16 February 2014. Mariners are advised the River will be closed forother boating pursuits from 0800 to 1700. Boat owners are restricted from using the boat ramp at Franklin and fromentering the rowing restricted area during these times. The restricted area isthe course and 500 metres either side of the course. The course is 1500upstream from the Huon Rowing Club and 500m downstream. Boat owners must followdirections of rowing officials. A public boat ramp is available at Shipwrights Point south of Franklin.
Posted Feb 11, 2014, 5:12 PM by Richard Forster
TN14 Days 4 and 5 ReportDay 4 was blown out. Some of the fleet gave it best and went home, but the weather report for day 5 (Tuesday) was auspicious, and the so the remainder gathered before 7 am to hoist sail. The promised northerly breeze turned out to be a northerly zephyr – so those sails didn’t have much to do for a while, and oars were more effective. Martin and Deb caused some mirth by maintaining a reef – their Lazy E must be VERY twitchy – but the rest of us did little better with all our canvas set. Somewhere between Middleton and Gordon we gave up and took a tow past the Gordon Corner, where a beautiful southeasterly sea breeze kicked in. We …
Posted Feb 11, 2014, 4:35 PM by Unknown user
TN14 Day Three ReportDay three was supposed to be a lay day with nothing much happening, but, as everybody in south eastern Tasmania knows, mother nature decreed that Sunday afternoon would be a time when things DID happen. A storm erupted that most if not all of us at Kettering could not recall the like of. Certainly, watching a whole shed cartwheeling and sailing past Chris Wilson’s head to come smashing down on a row of boats was not a sight that your correspondent had ever witnessed before. Tents were ripped and flattened, boats were torn off their moorings and cast up on the rocks, and the Mermaid Cafe lost its roof. A wind speed of 130 kph was recorded just across …
Posted Feb 9, 2014, 3:39 AM by Unknown user
kirkkoveneLBT member Richard Edwards writes Hi all, I thought you might enjoy this link, sent to us by a sailor friend in Queensland who spends a lot of his year working in Seattle near the Centre for Wooden Boats. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uKvCgLQhjAw Cheers Richard ‘Kirkkovene’ are Finnish ‘church boats’, and this documentary dates from 1938. The boating tradition continues in sport – they pack ’em in. Caption for the pic below: “Finnish Church Boat Rowing Team has completed its practice run and is ready to face the challenge of Sulkavan Suursoudut, the biggest single rowing competition in the world. Sulkava, Finland in 2002.” ref http://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Finnish_Church_Boat_in_Sulkava_Finland.jpg
Posted Feb 9, 2014, 3:29 AM by Unknown user
TN 14 Day Two ReportThe forecast was for an early calm and then increasing winds through the day. The Gordon corner is a good place not to be in a small boat in increasing winds, so a rise before dawn was called for, with only a small expectation that it would be achieved. However Julian Robertson’s singing has apparently been used to rouse generations of camping school children from their slumbers, and it certainly did the trick for us. Tents were packed, breakfast eaten and boats rigged and departing by 7.30am. And, as with yesterday, the forecast proved accurate, with only the lightest of airs to start with, but the with the more adventurous sailors surfing downwind by mid afternoon when they …
Posted Feb 8, 2014, 4:14 PM by Unknown user
TN 14 Day One ReportSometimes, just sometimes, days go according to plan, and Friday was one of those days. The fleet got away at the stipulated 7.15 (well, 7.45) with the tide and the land breeze, which took us down to Port Huon before dying away in time for morning tea. We rowed across a mirror past Bullock’s and Brabazon points, stopped for ‘small lunch’ and watched the grey band of a boisterous south westerly change advance steadily up the river. Oars were stowed, sails hoisted again, and we were away, tacking speedily down to Randall’s Bay. Tents were erected, eskies raided, beers drunk, meals cooked, birthday cheers sung to Peter Laidlaw, yack had, then off to bed. Will we …
Posted Feb 12, 2014, 4:50 AM by Unknown user
Yukon on TN14Last chance for booking your berth on board Yukon for TN 14 Wednesday evening. Raid the cookie jar , cash in those useless stocks and bonds get yourself a berth aboard the only Danish built sailing ship in Franklin , wave to your exhausted friends and fellow L.B.T.members as we glide effortlessly by with a cocktail in hand . Aghhhh the pirates life for me. For prices and more details see http://bit.ly/1fHVf8Y Best wishes David Nash 044 797 2342 Ea Lassen 049 857 8535 www.yukon-tours.dk
Posted Feb 1, 2014, 12:47 PM by Unknown user
An opportunity to join Tawe NunnugahLiz Smith is looking for a crew of two to join her on Tinderbox for our ‘Tawe Nunnugah Lite’ expedition which departs Franklin next Friday morning (7th Feb) on the outgoing tide. For those who don’t know Tinderbox, she is a fast rower and gentle sailer, ideal for short inshore expeditions such as this one. The picture below shows her moored beside Imagine at Recherche Bay during last year’s Tawe Nunnugah. If you are interested check out the tn14.org website and register there, or contact sec@lbt.org.au.
Posted Feb 1, 2014, 6:09 PM by Unknown user
HBG RaffleGraham Rankin writes: “As many members know the Trust is raffling the rowing skiff HGB to raise some much needed funds for our day to day operations ( we need around $20,000.00 a year to break even) . Many of you are already have raffle books and are hard at it, but we would love it if a few more members could help with selling tickets as well. If you’d like a book of tickets just contact Graham on 0400 334216 or email woodenboatfreak@gmail.com. Ticket books will also be available at Monday evening workshop. We will be promoting the raffle at the local markets, Focus on Franklin, Cygnet Regatta and the Taste of Huon, so if anyone …
Posted Jan 31, 2014, 3:51 PM by Unknown user
100% increase in St Ayles Skiffs in TassieYep, there are now two. Congratulations to Cygnet, who put their new boat on the water for the first time last Tuesday. There will be an official launch at the Cygnet Regatta in early March. Thanks to Bob Hawkins for the pics.
Posted Jan 30, 2014, 12:48 PM by Unknown user
Vale old LBT web site?For several years Chris Wilson used a program called ‘iWeb’ to maintain a web site which supported the LBT admirably. It is still accessible from the LBT home page ( “Find pre 2013 informationhere“). Apple discontinued support for iWeb a number of years ago, and, after considering options, we moved on to what we have today. Is it now time to remove the old LBT site? Are you still using it? It contains a lot of useful information which may be good to have online, but it does cause some confusion to those who blunder it without realising what is going on. Have your say on the form below (also at http://bit.ly/L7OIG9).
Posted Jan 29, 2014, 9:40 PM by Unknown user
A visit from the Men’s ShedKen Sulman from the Men’s Shed Association will be coming down to share lunch and some time with us next Tuesday at around 12.30pm. If you have questions or would like to meet him drop in.
Posted Jan 28, 2014, 8:27 PM by Unknown user
Anyone for bowls this Friday (31st Jan)? David Moore from the Traders Association writes ‘his Friday from 5pm (for a 6pm start) please come along to the Franklin Bowls club for a bowl, a beverage and a banter. I believe they’ll have snacks but if you want dinner you may need to bring a picnic or order a pizza. Please spread the word to the usual suspects and anyone else you think may be interested.’
Posted Jan 28, 2014, 9:35 PM by Unknown user
Campsite at Kettering for Tawe NunnugahJulian Robertson did the job: found a very nice site immediately behind the marina, an easy walk to the pub, and not too far from the plumbing. Thanks to those who made enquiries for us.
Posted Jan 25, 2014, 11:47 PM by Unknown user
Looking for a campsite at KetteringThe Tawe Nunnugah Lite expedition should arrive in Kettering on the evening of 8th February, and is looking for somewhere to stay for two nights. All the new work around the Kettering foreshore means that space is at a premium, and we need an alternative campsite. Suggestions anybody? Forward them to sec@lbt.org.au . We are hoping for somewhere warmer than that pictured, but we ain’t particular.
Posted Jan 22, 2014, 9:09 PM by Unknown user
Latest Newsletter from the Wooden Boat FestivalGet yours at http://bit.ly/1eb5u1A . Topics include: The Clipper around the world race, Launch of Varg, Billy Can Trophy, Wooden Boat Rally and more.
Posted Jan 20, 2014, 5:05 PM by Unknown user
Carpenter wantedLBT member Dave Abbot writes that he has a job for ‘anyone competent at marine carpentry who’d like some paid work…, I have a repair job (plywood rot in a bit of deck and cockpit coaming) on my boat at Cygnet‘. Contact is david.abbott@internode.on.net
Posted Jan 20, 2014, 4:05 PM by Unknown user
Tawe Nunnugah 2014: sail on the tall ship Yukonor those who prefer a little more comfort. Enjoy the spectacle of a small boat event from the steady decks of Yukon, ideal for photography, visual artists. There are more details on the TN14 website:http://bit.ly/1fHVf8YFor all enquiries Call David on 044 797 2342.
Posted Jan 17, 2014, 11:18 PM by Unknown user
Tall ship Yukon at the Cygnet Regatta.Tall Ships are heading to Cygnet to celebrate the 150th Cygnet Regatta. Join Yukon for a unique sailing experience with other Tall Ships. The whole Regatta onboard Yukon. Embark Friday the 7th March 5pm in Kettering. Disembark Monday the 10th March 5pm in Kettering. Price: $500. Price includes all meals and all of the below Day sail Saturday the 8th March, Woodbridge – Cygnet. Embark Saturday the 8th March 9am at Woodbridge Jetty. Disembark Saturday the 8th March between 3 and 5pm in Cygnet. Yukon will join the other Tall Ships, Lady Nelson, Julie Burgess and Rhone H and sail through the beautiful D’Entrecasteaux Channel to Cygnet. Price: $80, includes lunch. Day sail Sunday the …
Posted Jan 19, 2014, 3:17 AM by Unknown user
Press release from the RusichSee the latest at http://bit.ly/1aU1zX1 , passed on by Jimmy West. The Russians have a different way of telling a story. Jimmy has also given the Trust a Rusich DVD which is available for members to delve into (contact the secretary). Thanks Jimmy.
Posted Jan 16, 2014, 2:07 PM by Unknown user
Egg Island CanalRuth Young sends the following invitation: Franklin History Group Inc request the company of you, family and friends at the launch of a booklet celebrating the history of the Egg Island Canal and its recent listing on the Tasmanian Heritage Register. Sunday 19th January, 2014 at 3:00pm on at The Living Boat Trust Workshop, Main Road, Franklin
Posted Jan 12, 2014, 1:22 PM by Unknown user
Horse and Wood, Palais Theatre, Thursday 16th JanuaryThe ‘Horse and Wood’ Dunalley benefit concert at the Palais in Franklin last year was for many of those who attended the musical highlight of 2013. Two string fiddle, oud and throat singing sounds like a novelty act for the interval, but they could have played until breakfast and we would have wanted more. They are back to do it all again, this time to benefit the Progress Association’s grants program. The support act is the excellent BradMadigan Trio.The night starts at 6.30 and tickets are $10 for adults and$5 for concession and children. The grants program has supported the LBT in the past, so of course we think it is a good thing. There …
Posted Jan 11, 2014, 7:40 PM by Unknown user
Announcing TN14 Ultra LiteThe committee met on January 6th and made the decision to alter the format for this year’s Tawe Nunnugah to broaden its appeal. The major change is that there are now NO FEES – the cost is only $25 per day to cover common organisational expenses. This is based on participants being largely self sufficient. You still get to do all the important stuff – cruising the beautiful inshore waters of the Huon and the D’Entrecasteaux Channel in good company (both on and off the water), but you will have to throw your own snag on the barby in the evening.For more details see the TN14 Website
Posted Jan 9, 2014, 7:25 PM by Unknown user
Lost PropertyThe Tassie Jet Sport Boating Club motored down through Franklin on Sunday, taking pictures of themselves from a remote quadrocopter. They were, it has to be said, very well behaved, observed the speed limits, and didn’t rock the Grebes that were out rowing. Unfortunately their quadrocopter ditched into the river, and is probably already buried under a layer of mud. If it should rise to the surface (body decomposing?) the club would like it returned: contact is tassiepwc@gmail.com. (image from Wikimedia Commons)
Posted Jan 5, 2014, 1:27 PM by Unknown user
Pontoon king hit by king tideIt mightn’t look like much, but the slightly off kilter bollard on our pontoon indicates a twisted frame underneath. Not a major issue for local use, but the Wooden Boat Festival may look askance if they need it in future. The problem was caused because it was roped too tightly to the pier to move freely on the unusually high tide. The pontoon needs to be left loosely tied – it is anchored and cannot float away. It’s ok to temporarily tether it closely whilst children or less lithe adults are using it – just slacken the connection afterwards (slack is good).
Posted Jan 3, 2014, 2:47 AM by Richard Forster
New Year for the LBT begins next week (6th Jan)WOW has already been hard at it and Syrah is progressing well, but many of us have taken a break since the Christmas party. It all starts again on Monday night. Hans is cooking, there are plenty of working bee jobs to be done, and the dishwasher has been fixed (yay! thanks Phil).
Posted Jan 3, 2014, 2:52 AM by Richard Forster
Escaped Salmon Time?Marine and Safety Tasmania Notice No.: M02-14 Title: Navigation Hazard – Lower D’Entrecasteaux Channel and Huon River Valid From: 2/1/2014 Valid Until: 16/1/2014 Notice Content: Mariners are advised Huon Aquaculture has had a mooring system fail resulting in 14 cages drifting between Roaring Beach and Satellite Island. The cages are 168m in circumference. One cage is under tow and 13 others are in a group connected by the mooring system. There will be ropes and plastic hose etc. dragging behind for 500m. They occupy an area of about 500m2 and are roughly 1km SE of Huon Island as of 0900 hours on 02 January 2014. It is estimated their speed is about 0.7 kts …
Posted Jan 1, 2014, 7:20 PM by Unknown user
Clipper around the world raceActually a yacht race, the boats are departing Hobart tomorrow (Thursday 2nd) on their next leg: The race will restart at 1700 off Constitution Dock, Hobart with boats slipping lines from 1530. There will be no Parade of Sail. MAST have issued a notice asking other boats to stay clear. See more details at https://www.clipperroundtheworld.com
Posted Jan 3, 2014, 1:43 AM by Unknown user
Rusich newsJimmy West keeps up with the doings of the Ruskis, and sent this bulletin.The Rusich made it into Sydney, arriving there on the 11 Dec and mooring in Burns Bay (Lane Cove). The Aussie contingent of the crew had left the ship in Eden with the exception of Andy third from the right in group photo as well as three Russians. There was quite a crew change. It is envisaged that the boat will return to its home port on a cargo vessel from Newcastle. I am saving all photos of the voyage being daily received to a DVD slide show and when compiled will give a copy to the LBT for their archives if they are interested.
Posted Dec 24, 2013, 1:44 AM by Unknown user
Coastal Weather Forecast for FranklinTony Dow, who runs http://hrvistaweather.com/ which produces the weather observations displayed on our homepage, has put together a summary of weather details for Franklin mariners (and others) at http://hrvistaweather.com/wxflyer-wxsim.php . It has 2 and 5 day forecasts for Franklin, current weather observations, inshore forecast for south east waters, tide data, emergency numbers. Alternatively, if you just want tide data go to http://hrvistaweather.com/wxflyer-tides.php Looks pretty good to me!
Posted Jan 3, 2014, 1:48 AM by Richard Forster
Notices to MarinersThere are several general ones which can be summarised as: don’t hassle the Sydney to Hobart Yachts, stay away from the fireworks barge off Prince’s Wharf on New Year’s Eve, and don’t run over the swimmers at Prince’s wharf on the 28th. Of more local interest are the following.Notice No.: M142-13 Title: Duck Pond, Barnes Bay Valid From: 24/12/2013 Valid Until: 30/4/2014 Notice Content: Mariners are advised a marker has been placed in The Duck Pond, Barnes Bay, to mark the shoal. It is an orange pole with two horizontal reflective marks 30cm apart near the top. The marker is in position: 43 degrees 08.096S / 147 degrees 21 …
Posted Jan 1, 2014, 7:21 PM by Unknown user
The LBT and the Men’s Shed AssociationThis won’t be news to those who have been browsing the committee minutes, but for those who haven’t the LBT joined the Men’s Shed Association a couple of months ago. There was some debate on the committee about whether this was appropriate, given that we are very much a ‘People’s Shed’ with WOW being perhaps the most active group involved. On the positive side what we do (work in and around a shed) and the issues we face (insurance, managing work practices and a safe work environment) are a very good match with the Association’s core business, and being a part of it should help us. We have also been reassured by examples of other …
Posted Dec 21, 2013, 1:15 PM by Unknown user
News from the Wooden Boat FestivalBronwyn Long, one of the Festival organisers, sends Christmas greetings and a link to the latest Festival newsletter: http://bit.ly/1kUInJE . There are articles on the Kettering Wooden Boat Rally, Ian Johnston’s Big Tree Project, St Ayles Skiffs and more.
Posted Dec 19, 2013, 3:21 AM by Unknown user
Christmas at the LBTSay what you like about the LBT, we certainly know how to enjoy ourselves at this time of year. Over the weekend there were two expeditions to Brooks Bay. On Saturday a mixed fleet belted down there before a boisterous nor’wester and an outgoing tide. The crews spent the night in Tony and Kathy Smith’s wonderful old packing shed, which is almost more in the water than beside it. We went to bed with a good stretch of sand in front of us, but were awoken in the early hours by the sound of gurgling water and the knocking of the mast of a Grebe against the wall – the tide had come in. On Sunday the promised south …
Posted Dec 19, 2013, 1:11 PM by Unknown user
Last LBT school day for 2013It could have been a howling north westerly, raining cats and dogs and 8 degrees, but instead last Tuesday was a perfect day for Franklin Primary to finish their ‘on the water’ program with a sail around South Egg Island. It was the culmination of a very busy six weeks. Doug, Endra, Graham, Rob and the safety boat team have escorted all sorts of school groups, adults and children, as they practiced for Swiftsure Regatta and learned some basic boating skills. Southerly, Peter, Ros and many others have captained rowing and sailing crews, and in the background Liz Emery has tried to make fiscal sense of it all so that we haven’t gone broke in process. It was good …
Posted Dec 18, 2013, 4:10 AM by Unknown user
Christmas Greetings from Rick GowerRick is one of our ‘far flung’ members, and sends the following. First, may I wish you and everyone at the LBT a very happy and peaceful Christmas. One of the highlights of 2013 for me was participating in the raid and I have wonderful memories of the time we all spent together. I hope to be with you all again for the 2015 raid. Some news from up here at Drysdale. After a very long and extended gestation my Foster 10 dinghy, “The Ship”, was finally launched last Sunday. She settled into the brine in a very ladylike and dignified manner. The naming ceremony was performed by my wife, Sue and at the same time a small amount of …
Posted Dec 8, 2013, 3:36 PM by Richard Forster
Swiftsure Regatta ResultsFinal of the Grebe Races 1. Franklin Two 2. Cygnet Five 3. Dover One 4. Glen Huon Three Time Trials (times in minutes:seconds)St Ayles Skiff (Imagine) Huonville Staff 14:22 Workforce 14:40 Cygnet Boat 14:47 Huon Oaks 14:59 Cyglins 15:06 Franklin Primary 15:14 Geevo Staff 15:24 Taroona Coastal Rowing 16:27 Cygnet Primary 18:37 Libyan Wombats 22:44 Cygnet Builders 24:03 Whaleboat (Swiftsure)Imagine Testosterone 13:25 Franklin Primary 15:48 Cygnet Primary 16:10 Glen Huon 16:12 Deregs 17:13 The victorious Franklin Two team are shown displaying their trophy in the picture below. It was a great day and there were many other winners. Thanks to all …
Posted Dec 8, 2013, 10:08 PM by Unknown user
MAST safety course at Port Huon, December 12Next Thursday there is a sausage sizzle and safety course at the Yacht Club sponsored by MAST. Laurence Burgin organised a similar event for Franklin a year ago, and it was excellent – lots of hands on with flairs and fire extinguishers. With cracker night banned its as much fun as you can have with bangs and smokes these days. All invited.
Posted Dec 10, 2013, 12:14 AM by Unknown user
News Flash: thirty teams for Swiftsure RegattaThe schedule is now fairly firm, and provisionally there are fifteen ‘Grebe’ teams racing against each other, and fifteen teams in the time trials (eleven in Imagine and four in Swiftsure). See http://bit.ly/18Exs6Z to find out when you will be on the water. Peter Cook has packed us in to get the event finished by 2.30pm, and we will need to be fairly disciplined or we will be rowing into the twilight and Jilly will have to serve hot toddies to keep us going.Speaking of hot toddies, it was that sort of weather on Thursday and as a consequence the marquee did not get erected. The intention is to do it on Friday (the 6th …
Posted Dec 5, 2013, 3:51 AM by Unknown user
Christmas Excursion to Brooks Bay, 14-15th DecemberIt’s ON. Tony Smith has very kindly offered us the use of his big shed and a camping area. More details to come, but this will be a ‘fend for yourself’ expedition. Brooks Bay is not a huge distance, so we are hoping to take the Swiftsure and maybe some Grebes. There will be an outgoing tide all morning on Saturday which will help us get out. However that will be a hindrance on Sunday: it may be best to leave our passage through the narrower part of the river until later to mitigate this. Weather at this stage is looking benign. Complete the form below if you wish to participate, or send an email to sec@lbt.org …
Posted Dec 12, 2013, 4:43 AM by Unknown user
Boat Launching DayAll those who have worked on Gretchen over the last three or so years will be very pleased to hear she is finally back in the water. Once the rigging is sorted out and the lee boards fitted we can look forward to sailing her. And after Gretchen the Flying Fifteen finally went back in. Until her timbers take up she will be a bit leaky, as witnessed by the bailers in the picture below, and the her current ‘low to the waterline’ profile!
Posted Dec 9, 2013, 3:02 AM by Unknown user
It all happens on TuesdaysHere are recent photos from Graham Wright, giving an indication of some (but not all!) the work being done by the Tuesday group. The Sea Knight is being fitted out with tanks decks, hatches and bulkheads, and is starting to look like a complete boat. Dennis has fitted ‘the knot’ to the life members board and is framing it. Oars are being repaired. Rob pumps out ‘Rowan the Rescue Boat’ in preparation for a session with school kids training for the Swiftsure Regatta.
Posted Dec 5, 2013, 2:01 AM by Unknown user
LBT Christmas Party, Monday 16th of DecemberA bring your own food, fun, music and bottle party, Normal working bee cancelled. From 6pm, or whenever you arrive.
Posted Dec 3, 2013, 12:15 PM by Unknown user
It’s official: there are snags in the riverSausages, Sensitive New Age Guys, but principally the other sort. Marine and Safety Tasmania Notice No.: M131-13 Title: Navigation Hazard – Huon River Valid From: 3/12/2013 Valid Until: 3/1/2014 Notice Content: Mariners are advised there are partially submerged trees in the Huon River between Franklin and Port Huon. Mariners should navigate with caution.
Posted Dec 3, 2013, 11:57 AM by Unknown user
Monday evening working bee and dinner 9th December cancelledInstead those who wish to will be attending the fire awareness evening at the Fire Station, to be conducted by the Fire Regional personnel starting at 6.30 pm. Food will be provided.(picture of bushfire at South Franklin last summer, from ABC news)
Posted Dec 2, 2013, 3:54 AM by Unknown user
Wooden boats need…woodAnd Marshall Roberts provided. A few weeks ago some poplars on the Glen Huon property where he works were blown down, he advertised for anybody interested to take them away, and Steve Campbell spotted the opportunity. Last week Peter Laidlaw and team descended upon them with Peter’s chainsaw mill, and the pile of slabs that now sits adjacent to the stone wall was the result. Now all we have to do is rack them out, wait, and see what we have. Poplar is a standard timber for making oars, and for general use in America. Thanks Marshall. If you want to be chopped off at the knees Marshall is your man – see http://www.scythemowers.net/about/For a …
Posted Jan 1, 2014, 7:57 PM by Unknown user
Neil Oliver: Coast AustraliaNeil joined Peter Heading’s boat Vardo on Tawe Nunnugah 2013 to record part of the Tasmanian leg of his series. Rumour has it that he was grateful to encounter that ‘old Tasmanian sea dog’ Peter to provide him with the colour he needed. Rumour also has it that, on a blowy day, Peter was grateful to get Neil and his equipment aboard James Craig without a dunking! Those with Foxtel can now view all this excitement and more: Coast Australia commences Monday December 2. See http://www.historychannel.com.au/tv-shows/1310/coast-australia/castP.S. Just heard a whisper that the Tasmanian episode is on 23rd December, and that Ros Barnett gets a splash too.
Posted Dec 2, 2013, 3:08 AM by Unknown user
News From Spring BayAnybody who was still contemplating making an offer for the ‘boat renovator’s delight’ advertised in this column a couple of weeks ago has missed out: Spring Bay have taken it on as a project. Some pics from their expedition to collect it below.
Posted Nov 30, 2013, 6:57 PM by Unknown user
MAST TelevisionGraham Wright has pointed out this site which should be of great use to anyone going on the water. He recommends the VHF radio segment, but there looks to be a lot more – see http://masttv.com.au/videos/channel/6
Posted Nov 29, 2013, 4:23 PM by Unknown user
The Grand SeductionSusan Westcott (via LBT member Hans Sipsma) writes to tell us about the showing of a new film: set in Trinity Bay Newfoundland, a fishing community is dying. They have a chance to make it big with an oil company but they need 2 things: a permanent GP and a population of 230 and they have neither…The resolution is hilarious! Presented to the Toronto International Film Festival in Sept to rave reviews this is an Australian premiere…and the co producer’s birthday party!Please come and join us at Huonville Town Hall at 7pm. Only $5 per person
Posted Nov 29, 2013, 3:33 AM by Unknown user
Swiftsure Regatta: be a part of itOnly a bit over a week to go to ‘Regatta Day’. Teams are forming up and jobs are being allocated. If you can help out please complete the form at http://bit.ly/IoaaWm. There is now a dedicated regatta web page at http://bit.ly/Iod65p – which can be accessed from the ‘On the Water’ item in the menu bar. Go there, have a look, and get involved!
Posted Nov 29, 2013, 2:56 AM by Unknown user
River closed for Regatta, Saturday 7th DecemberMarine and Safety Tasmania Notice No.: M126-13 Title: Rowing Regatta – Huon River, Franklin Notice Content: A Rowing Regatta will be held on the Huon River at Franklin on Saturday, 7 December 2013. Mariners are advised the river will be closed for other boating pursuits from 0800 to 1600. Boat owners are restricted from using the boat ramp at Franklin and entering the rowing restricted area during these times. The restricted area is the course and 500 metres either side of the course. Boat owners must follow directions of rowing officials. A public boat ramp is available at Shipwrights Point south of Franklin.
Posted Nov 28, 2013, 1:43 PM by Unknown user
The BosunNot ‘a petty officer in charge of a ship’s rigging, anchors, cables, and deck crew‘ but a very nautical stool designed by Johanna Ender for an industrial design course project. As can be seen from the attached picture her time here in Franklin was part of her inspiration. For those not in the know, ‘Bosun’ is Greg Guy’s dog, a habitué of the waterfront and a friend of Johanna’s. A (very) rough translation of the project description reads: Within this project, an alternative design solution was developed for classic furniture. “Bosun” – the boatman. This design adapts traditional wooden boat construction. Six frames give the structure its stability – they are covered and held together by a thin sheath …
Posted Jan 3, 2014, 2:35 AM by Richard Forster
Pics from Johanna EnderMany of us remember Johanna and Georg very fondly. They were the young German backpackers who looked after the shed a couple of years ago over the Christmas break. They keep up with our doings through the newsletter and Johanna has sent pictures for the Tawe Nunnugah poster competition. Unfortunately the competition is now closed, but Johanna is a great photographer and the pics are worth seeing. They have been added to the competition page at http://bit.ly/1dMEHYu . She must have been following the Rusich news and has sent us a pic of ‘their’ viking boat: ‘there is a viking ship called WISSEMARA. It was sunken and rebuild with the original parts. The planks are special – they used …
Posted Nov 28, 2013, 1:39 PM by Unknown user
All shiny and newThe ‘Living Boat Painters’ have done Absent Friends proud: she is almost too pretty to put back in the water. In the picture below Peter Hill applies finishing touches.
Posted Nov 26, 2013, 12:41 PM by Unknown user
And the winner is…Monday night’s diners turned jury to choose a picture for publicising Tawe Nunnugah 2014 on posters, flyers etc. Thank you to all those who submitted entries – we on the committee loved all of them (http://bit.ly/1dMEHYu) and were very grateful that we could turn over the responsibility of making a decision to somebody else. In the event Peter Heading entry won an early birthday present for him. Expect to see it plastered all over the place shortly.
Posted Nov 25, 2013, 11:32 PM by Unknown user
Motor for SaleGraham Rankin writes:The motor is Penguin 3 & 3/4 horsepower, single cylinder, two stroke with clutch, shaft and propeller. Asking price is $600.00 ONO Contact Graham on 0400334216 or woodenboatfreak@gmail.com
Posted Nov 25, 2013, 11:17 PM by Unknown user
WOW on 7.30 ReportOn Friday 22nd the ABC broadcast their story about community boat building, which featured the new Cygnet St Ayles Skiff and the WOW rowing team. It’s a good show: see it on iView at http://ab.co/1jzV5wB
Posted Nov 28, 2013, 1:42 PM by Unknown user
Picton Castle ApprenticeshipsJohn Young has forwarded the following. ‘Dan Moreland asked me to forward information on Picton Castle’s upcoming apprenticeship opportunities to you. The apprenticeship is aimed at young professional mariners who want to gain skills, experience and deep-ocean sea time on a square rigger. We have berths available on upcoming voyages and want to use them to contribute to professional development for the sail training fleet. I’ve attached a document with more information. Any assistance you could give to spread the word about the apprenticeships would be gratefully received. The first one starts December 3rd in New Zealand, so we’re trying to get the information out quickly. Regards, Maggie Maggie Ostler Barque PICTON CASTLE PO Box 1076 …
Posted Nov 24, 2013, 12:43 AM by Unknown user
A farewell gift from RusichLBT member Jimmy West writes:” Peter [Laidlaw] and friend have been awarded honorary membership of the Russian Viking Motor Cycle club. The photo was taken at the farewell of the Rusich yesterday. The Rusich has departed Franklin and, come Monday or Sunday, not known when exactly, will be leaving Tasmanian waters for good via the Dunally Canal.”When Peter switches the workshop radio from Classic FM to Slavic Death Metal we now have an explanation.
Posted Nov 23, 2013, 1:23 AM by Unknown user
Notice to MarinersNotice No.: M123-13 Title: Current Meter Deployment– Huon River Valid From: 22/11/2013 Valid Until: 20/12/2013 Notice Content: Mariners are advised that Huon Aquaculture will be deploying a current meter east of their Flathead Bay lease. The current meter will be marked with awhite plastic buoy on the surface with the words “Research Gear”. This white buoy will be replaced shortly with a pink plastic buoy and will bein place until 19 December. The position of the buoy is: 147 degrees 06.6466’ E / 43 degrees 17.5018’ SMariners should navigate with caution in the area.
Posted Nov 21, 2013, 4:54 PM by Unknown user
Oughtred Gannet for saleLooking for a small sailer, perhaps for the Tawe Nunnugah? Allan Patman of Franklin writes: ‘We have decided to sell our lovely little yacht Kristabel. We find that we are not sailing as much as we should and it is a shame that it is not getting use. It was made in Hobart in 2004 and is an Ian Oughtred designed Gannet Clinker plywood 14 ft, very stable, can be rowed but sails very well. It can also take an outboard. There is a full set of maroon sails and it comes on a registered tilt trailer. We are asking $ 2500. And it can be viewed in Franklin.’Email contact: allor04@gmail.com
Posted Nov 20, 2013, 12:34 PM by Unknown user
Fillum Star RusichTuesday’s shoot went ahead. We are sure there will be some perfect sequences for Macbeth, so long as they crop out the koalas. (Pics from Dave Melville)
Posted Nov 23, 2013, 2:05 AM by Unknown user
Three weeks to Swiftsure RegattaThe sight of school teams training hard has been a reminder that it’s not long to the Regatta (Sunday 8th December). Make sure it is in your diary, and if you have a bit of spare time we would welcome some help both on the day and on the preceding Friday (to get set up and get the marquee erected). If you can assist please submit your name through the form below. (Picture from Endra O’May)
Posted Nov 28, 2013, 2:47 PM by Richard Forster
Applications for Tawe Nunnugah 2014 now openFor all details, maps, forms etc see the event home page, which can be reached at http://bit.ly/1ieoyyr , or by clicking on the Tawe Nunnugah link in the menu bar of the LBT website. As has been advertised, this will be a (relatively) short Tawe Nunnugah in (relatively) sheltered waters, ideal for small rowing and sail boats, but also an adventure for larger boats. The route is from Franklin to Kettering via Bruny Island, and then back to Franklin after the Wooden Boat Rally – see the itinerary and a map at http://bit.ly/1f1N1Hj . Apply now by completing the form at http://bit.ly/1by9Qz3 . Cost is $120 per day with preference given to those wanting to …
Posted Nov 16, 2013, 8:54 PM by Unknown user
Last Hurrah for Rusich?LBT member Martin Kell tells us that the makers of a locally filmed version of Macbeth are hoping to get some atmospheric takes of Rusich on Tuesday morning, very early. The weather forecast is for nothing atmospheric, but with Rusich being perfect for the role and leaving so soon the producers can’t afford to wait. They are in need of extras. Stay tuned for more information if you are interested. We’ve certainly had some fun with Rusich and It will be sad to her go. The highlight for many of us was taking her up to participate in the Tall Ships parade, which you can read about at http://bit.ly/1d0ydJ5 and http://bit.ly/1d0yf3u . A …
Posted Nov 14, 2013, 10:24 PM by Unknown user
Cygnet Skiff gets turned overA significant milestone was passed a week or so back, when the Cygnet St Ayles Skiff came off its moulds and was turned over. Jeremy and the team are going like steam (suspect metaphor, but the rhyme is good). Bob Hawkins provided the following sequence of photos.
Posted Nov 15, 2013, 8:38 PM by Unknown user
Wanted: that iconic photoPlanning for Tawe Nunnugah 2014 (TN14) has well and truly started. You’ll notice that the ‘Tawe Nunnugah’ entry in the website menu bar now points to a TN14 page ( http://bit.ly/1ieoyyr ) instead of the Raid page from earlier this year. One of the things we need is THE iconic photo to use when advertising the event. Laurence from Franklin Marine has offered a bottle of wine for the winner. That plus the glory should attract international entrants, but we Aussies can match ’em. It doesn’t have to be a picture from a previous Tawe Nunnugah: something that tells a story about sailing and rowing on the Huon or in the Channel could easily win. Send your …
Posted Nov 18, 2013, 3:45 AM by Richard Forster
Final Reminder: Huon ShowBest show in Australia coming up on Saturday November 16th. Be there or be a dunce. And if you really want to be top of the class help out at the epicentre of it all, the LBT stall. Contact Graham Rankin at (woodenboatfreak@gmail.com) to find out how you can avail yourself of this opportunity.
Posted Nov 14, 2013, 10:25 PM by Unknown user
Kettering Wooden Boat Rally, 2014The Wooden Boat Guild have a website for this February event up and running at http://bit.ly/1aE6Ahb . Of course the ultimate way to get there will be with Tawe Nunnugah 2014, but failing that it looks like it will be a lot of fun anyway.
Posted Nov 13, 2013, 1:38 PM by Unknown user
Fire awareness evening at the Franklin Fire StationCraig Walker will facilitate a fire awareness evening at the Fire Station, to be conducted by the Fire Regional personnel, on Monday 9th December starting at 6.30pm. This will clash with our Monday evening working bee but we have time to organise and some people may like to attend. (picture of fire at South Franklin last summer, from ABC news)
Posted Nov 12, 2013, 9:59 PM by Unknown user
Imagine goes to CygnetLast Friday WOW rowed Imagine to Cygnet – story from Jane Johnson below. Yesterday (Tuesday 12) some WOW members were interviewed at Cygnet for the ‘7.30’ report – watch out for it on Friday evenings.An overcast, cold November day in the Huon saw the St Ayles Skiff crew on “Imagine” head off for the 30km voyage into Port Cygnet. On board were the “Women On Water” members who had also been the builders of the skiff. The “jabble”(wild water) that started around the Port Huon fish farms, was well controlled as the crew aimed for the destination half-way point at Petcheys Bay for a quick crew change. Bullock and Brabazon Points were rounded and the …
Posted Nov 13, 2013, 1:27 PM by Unknown user
New St Ayles Skiff at TaroonaLooks like WOW have started something. From there being just one (Imagine), a veritable Tasmanian fleet of St Ayles skiffs is in progress in the workshop, and should be on the water early next year. To keep up with the Taroona build follow the blog at http://taroonastaylesskiff.wordpress.com/
Posted Nov 12, 2013, 10:05 PM by Unknown user
Regatta for NovicesJohn Young writes to tell us that Huon Yacht Club are holding a Novice or Non Racing Skippers Fun Day on Saturday 16th November, starting at 1400 hrs. Maybe we should be unshrouding the Flying Fifteen and sending down a crew. If you are keen send an email to sec@lbt.org.au
Posted Nov 13, 2013, 1:28 PM by Unknown user
Low tideWhoever moored Rowan had not foreseen the tide going out this far.
Posted Nov 7, 2013, 2:17 AM by Unknown user
This weekend in Franklin: primary school fairThe friendship between the LBT and Franklin Primary School goes way back, and they have invited us to pitch the (small) marquee and be part of their fair this weekend. We are organised (we hope!) to set up on Friday, but if you could help out on Saturday that would be great. Contact the secretary at sec@lbt.org.au or submit your name through the form below, or find him in the jumping castle.
Posted Nov 6, 2013, 2:04 PM by Unknown user
Huon ShowGraham Rankin writes: The Huon Show is fast approaching (Sat 16th Nov) and as usual the LBT will be on hand to show our support to the local community, and of course to spread the word about all the fun things we get up to in Franklin. Any members who are interested in helping with the set up on Friday afternoon or “personing” the stall on Saturday and /or helping with the pack up can add their names to the volunteer sheet in the shed. You can also send an email to Graham Rankin if that’s easier (woodenboatfreak@gmail.com). We will be using our 3 x 3 metre gazebo tent, so the setup won’t be too onerous …
Posted Nov 7, 2013, 2:15 AM by Unknown user
Boat Renovators DelightMatthew emailed to say that the family dinghy, made from king billy pine, is in need of a new home where it can receive some love and attention. It is currently in St Helens. Those interested can call him on 04322 24899
Posted Nov 3, 2013, 6:01 AM by Unknown user
New oars from old logsPeter Laidlaw slabbed, and David Pittaway sawed, and the wattle log that has been a pleasant seat in the middle of our lawn was transformed into blanks for new oars. Come along next Monday 11th November and participate in an oar making workshop to be run by David.
Posted Nov 3, 2013, 6:02 AM by Unknown user
Old Sea Dogs on Monday nightRos Barnett writes: My special guest at dinner on Monday night (4 Nov) will be Andrew Wilson, photographer and author, who recently launched his book Old Sea Dogs, which features our mate Pete Heading amongst other crusty old characters. We are eating Italian style this week; minestrone, pizza, nicoise salad and a boozy pudding. You wouldn’t want to miss it. If Mondays continue to be as good as this we are going to have to publish the menu and program a fortnight ahead of time so that our interstate members can make travel arrangements.
Posted Nov 2, 2013, 6:41 PM by Unknown user
Doubleday’s double ribbingBrett Doubleday and the Tuesday team have spent a riveting couple of days (boom, boom) reinforcing with doubles the damaged ribs in Michael’s vintage Huon Pine dinghy. The wood steamer has been chuffing away overtime to supply them with celery pine pliable enough to be forced in around the tight curve of the hull. (Pictures from Dave Melville)
Posted Nov 1, 2013, 3:49 PM by Unknown user
Born Again BoatsFor an interesting article and nice pics describing some Huon Valley boat builders see page 10 in the online magazine at http://bit.ly/1abp1JM
Posted Oct 29, 2013, 4:33 AM by Unknown user
Boot and Boat Sale kicks goals The highlights at the Sunday LBT ‘Boot and Boat’ market were too numerous to mention, but we’ll try. Steve and Kath Campbell’s publicity campaign, both terrestial (signage everywhere) and virtual (Facebook, Gumtree) was wall to wall. We are in oar (yuck, yuck) Dennis and Parge’s LBT stall, was the big money spinner of the day. Well done guys. Ros Barnett’s food and drink, provided with the able assistance of Graham, Jennifer, Hans and Nell, was in constant demand. Ticket books were rapidly emptied by Peter Hill as the eager punters staked a chance on winning Dr Dick’s rowing skiff. There were seagull motors everywhere, with Gary Pritchard and Steve demonstrated just how noisy they are …
Posted Oct 31, 2013, 4:45 AM by Unknown user
WOW steals a marchThey are already in training for Swiftsure regatta. Who is their mystery coxswain hiding behind her sunglasses in the gathering gloom of the evening? Is this their secret weapon?
Posted Oct 26, 2013, 3:00 AM by Unknown user
Ruth Young’s archiveA discussion about the motor launch Nancy (née Rowella) prompted Ruth Young to go searching. She turned up the bill poster shown below, which dates from the early 1920’s at the latest. That archive must be like the Tardis. We are still in the process of organising the transport of Nancy down from Queensland. There are a couple of funding decisions coming up which will help us decide what to do. Find out more about Nancy on this page.
Posted Oct 26, 2013, 2:45 AM by Unknown user
Tawe Nunnugah 2014See the Tawe Nunnugah 2014 Home Page
Posted Dec 5, 2013, 1:46 AM by Unknown user
Sunday visitorsDavid Gatenby and Pat Burnell from the Spring Community Boat Shed write:We are sending you our newly created brochure for our Shed and will have some more for you on Sunday We are bringing a kombi load ( of people/members) down to see you for your Bosun’s Locker/ car boot sale day. I do hope that we can find just a quiet minute to catch up sometime during the visit… Lots happening up here with steady progress made over Winter… Looking forward to seeing you and having a great day SundaySounds like we may have a sister organisation.
Posted Oct 24, 2013, 5:34 AM by Unknown user
Rowing Regatta 2nd 3rd NovemberMariners are advised the river will be restricted for other boating pursuits on2 November from 0800 to 1800 and on 3 November from 0800 to 1600.Boat owners are restricted from using the boat ramp at Franklin and enteringthe rowing restricted area during these times. The restricted area is thecourse and 500 metres either side of the course. Boat owners must followdirections of rowing officials.A public boat ramp is available at Shipwrights Point, south of Franklin.
Posted Oct 23, 2013, 3:32 AM by Unknown user
Shed GriefWe had noticed Phil Dunning quietly reaching for a kleenex when describing his ‘old’ shed, but hadn’t realised what he had given up until we saw these pictures from Dave Melville. Now we understand.
Posted Oct 22, 2013, 4:24 PM by Unknown user
The night David Nash didn’t set an anchor watchHe was tied up to the ‘known to be reliable’ mooring shown in the picture below. Fortunately the wind gods were looking after him and took him a kilometer or so out into the Channel, and not up on the rocks. And the upshot of it was that he (and Yukon) arrived early back in Franklin to be greeted by the first cygnets of the season, and in plenty of time for the welcome home party under a full moon later that evening. (Pics from Lyn Goodwin and Bob Hawkins)
Posted Oct 22, 2013, 4:25 PM by Unknown user
What Peter didPeter Laidlaw has sent these pics of the dory he has been building with school students up in Queensland. We note with some envy the use of shade cloth: not too much need of that down here!
Posted Oct 17, 2013, 5:49 AM by Unknown user
MeteyeThe Bureau of Meteorology say that ‘Meteye’ is experimental, and to cross-reference with their more traditional reports, but nevertheless this looks like an extremely promising tool for getting useful marine weather forecasts. In the example below the wind forecast for Franklin at 1am on Saturday the 19th has been chosen, and it could be very breezy. Go to http://www.bom.gov.au/australia/meteye/ and give it a try. Thanks to Laurence for pointing out this one.
Posted Oct 17, 2013, 5:45 AM by Unknown user
Boot and Boat Sale – more details for LBT membersDate: Sunday 27th October Time: 8am – 3pm (sellers from 7.30 am) Place: Living Boat Trust Lawn How can you be involved: * Advertise: * Get your notices/posters from the shed to stick up in your local shop. * Tell people about the Gumtree advertisement at http://bit.ly/H701fW * Tell your Facebook friends to check out the event advertisement at http://on.fb.me/H70ajx * Setup: erect the marquee on Thursday or Friday. * Have your own stall ($10 per table/trailer). Consider sharing if you don’t have enough stuff. * Contribute to the LBT stall Clean out your garage and bring (saleable) stuff during the week * Help out with catering (egg and bacon rolls, coffee etc) * Supervise activities, for instance * rowing …
Posted Oct 17, 2013, 7:15 PM by Unknown user
The return of ‘Yukon’Ea Lassen writes:Yukon is well over Bass Strait Expected back in Franklin after the East Coast Odyssey this Saturday. Let’s celebrate !!!!!Living Boat Trust, Saturday 19/10 at high tide – 5/6/7 pm.Maybe you would like to sail/row and meet Yukon up the river?There will be soup and bread.Bring your own food for the barbecue, drinks – and instrument if you can play at least one number! See you thereEa, Ninka, Jilly,Kristopher and Aron NB: Any changes will be announced on this website
Posted Oct 17, 2013, 4:53 AM by Unknown user
To all you Facebook fansThe LBT (well, Cath Campbell) is in the process of reactivating our slumbering Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/pages/Living-Boat-Trust/205550406219049 . Come and visit and ‘like’ us. Commit to the Trash ‘n Treasure (Boot and Boat) Event and share it with your friends.
Posted Oct 17, 2013, 3:32 PM by Unknown user
Keeping up with events at the LBTThe LBT calendar has been promoted to the main menu bar. Choose it and you will see a nicely presented agenda of upcoming events. Scroll backwards to see what has happened in the past, forward to see further into the future. Click on an item heading to see more details. Use the tabs at the top right to view by week or by month.
Posted Oct 17, 2013, 5:23 AM by Unknown user
Doctor Dick’s boat gets a makeoverPeter ‘the painter’ Hill has Dr Dick Geeves’ rowing shell positively gleaming. This boat is going to be raffled shortly, with some of the proceeds coming to the LBT (thanks Dick). She’s a beauty, and there is already jostling to get to the head of the ticket queue. More details coming.
Posted Oct 15, 2013, 4:50 PM by Unknown user
The Russians are comingJimmy West writes to tell us that having enjoyed the furlough they undoubtedly deserved after their epic voyage, the Russian crew of the Rusich are returning to sail her away at the end of October. Read all about it on Jimmy’s blog at http://bit.ly/19xASnl (photo from Jimmy’s Blog)
Posted Oct 13, 2013, 2:17 PM by Unknown user
First Aid CertificateWant to have a First Aid Certificate? To get one you need to do a course. It isn’t free, but if we have sufficient numbers the cost can be brought down. Register your interest on the form below, or by emailing sec@lbt.org.au .It may be that you already have this qualification but need to renew it. We will be contacting those (whom we know about) in this category shortly.
Posted Oct 10, 2013, 4:12 PM by Richard Forster
Boot/Boat Sale 27th OctoberAt last night’s committee meeting it was confirmed that this fund raising event is ON, dependent on getting support and getting organised quickly. More details to follow, but if you can be involved please submit your name through the form below, or email the secretary at sec@lbt.org.au . This is also a good opportunity to do something with all that stuff which you no longer need but which is cluttering the garage. This was a very good event last year and we hope to exceed it this time around, with people and goods busting out of the marquee.
Posted Oct 11, 2013, 7:35 PM by Unknown user
Reconstituting Swiftsure Sunday (morning)The weather has warmed up and it is time to get Swiftsure out on the water again. It is a great way to shake out the cobwebs (and the sheets and lines) so come and join our formidable crew – brains of the outfit third from left in pic below. Meet at the shed at 9.30am.UPDATE: River is closed this weekend (12-13 Oct), so first Swiftsure Sunday for the spring season will be 20th October
Posted Oct 9, 2013, 3:42 AM by Unknown user
Update to LBT Home PageWe at Franklin are very fortunate in having our own online weather station (hrvistaweather.com ) maintained by Tony Dow. With the sailing season coming on it is a good time to elevate our link to this site to the home page. When you navigate here what you should now see is a neat little summary of the current weather at the top of the left column above the ‘highlights’ reel. Click on this and you should be taken to hrvistaweather and all sorts of wondrous forecasts and other information. This has not been tested on all browsers. If it causes trouble for you please contact the secretary at sec@lbt.org.au .
Posted Oct 5, 2013, 5:58 PM by Unknown user
After the floodThe ‘big fresh’ has brought down tons of forest litter, branches and logs to entangle moorings, pontoons and jetties. Some of it is quite awkward to deal with. This ugly brute put up a good fight, but once John and Doug had wrassled it ashore the game was up.
Posted Oct 5, 2013, 12:31 AM by Unknown user
The Premier comes to town Last Tuesday Lara Giddings visited the Wooden Boat Centre at the invitation of Greg Guy. The weather was against us, but she had a wander around the boat shed and marina, had her picture taking with a bunch of kids messing with the Grebes, and generally got a feel for what is going on. The Working Waterfront Association are hoping that she might stump up the funding for a professional business plan. The message she gave was that she is able to provide MATCHING funding.
Posted Oct 5, 2013, 12:25 AM by Unknown user
Egg Island CanalRuth Young writes to say that the canal has now been placed on the Tasmanian Heritage Register which records “those places that are recognised as being of historic cultural heritage significance to the whole of Tasmania”. On a recent expedition to the banks of the canal the grandson unearthed a pirate beer bottle AND a pirate cigarette lighter. It may have been these sorts of discoveries that swung it. For more on the canal and on the controversy about putting a pipeline through it a couple of years ago see this item written by Chris Wilson: http://www.lbt.org.au/The_Egg_Island_Pipeline.html. Congratulations to Ruth and her colleagues for getting this done.(Tas Museum Cato Collection
Posted Oct 3, 2013, 11:34 PM by Unknown user
3 Men in Boat event postponedThis event, part of our Seniors Week program, will now run on Tuesday 15th October instead of Thursday 3rd October. The ominous weather forecast for the latter date led to this decision.
Posted Oct 1, 2013, 10:30 PM by Unknown user
New ToolsGraham Rankin sent the following message.“The LBT has been successful in obtaining an $825.00 grant for tools from Huonville Council. With input from the WOW and others, we shortlisted a number of items. So far we have purchased a random orbital sander, a jigsaw and the two woodworkers kits which include a smoothing plane, block plane, marking gauge,try square and bevel gauge. We are still to purchase some clamps to complete the grant expenditure. Thanks to Brett Doubleday for picking up the woodworkers kits from Carbatec in Launceston.”Thanks to Graham and Jilly Archer for this one.
Posted Oct 3, 2013, 2:52 PM by Unknown user
Visit from CanTeen30 kids from CanTeen (http://www.canteen.org.au) visited the shed on Sunday for activities ranging from knots through wood steaming to rowing. They were a great bunch, game for all of it, and a good time was had by all.
Posted Sep 29, 2013, 2:22 PM by Unknown user
Safety Boat CourseGlynn Shevels delivered a safety boat course to a dozen or so LBTers on Saturday (taking good care to finish before the footy grand final got started). We talked through procedures, threw lines, towed and were towed, manoeuvred power boats around courses and generally tried to practice what Glynn preached. Thanks Glynn.
Posted Sep 28, 2013, 4:15 PM by Unknown user
Fairwell Tall ShipsOn Wednesday many LBTers took to the water aboard Rusich, Capricornia (and other boats?) to bid fairwell to the fleet. A grand time was had by all. From their perch on Rusich’s figurehead valkyries Annie and Jane conducted the misbehaviour incumbent upon vikings, whilst Piet Lundstedt threaded little Capricornia nimbly around the lumbering windjammers. When the wind got up the big ships were no longer quite so lumbering, and were quickly scattered on the horizon past Iron Pot. Piet provided the last bit of drama for the day. He snapped his mainmast, with the jib the being the only sail hoisted mind. That breeze WAS fresh.Thanks to Laurence Burgin and Piet Lundstedt for organising the boats.Rusich will …
Posted Sep 29, 2013, 7:53 PM by Richard Forster
A special visitor on Monday nightLast Monday night John Young’s sister Heather led the diners in a rousing rendition of ‘Bring back Old Nelly to me’ accompanied by Dave Melville on guitar. Concert footage will be supplied if we can figure out how to run our video editing software. The ‘Old Nelly’ in question is the tall ship Lord Nelson, currently docked in Hobart. Heather and John were part of the crew that sailed Lord Nelson from Melbourne, and they supplied the accompanying pictures taken in Port Davey.
Posted Sep 23, 2013, 7:16 PM by Unknown user
Rusich goes to HobartCap’n Burgin and a small crew took Rusich (the replica viking trader) through ‘sea trials’ last Wednesday. After a night at Kettering, and after ‘Professor’ Phil Dunning had corrected a couple of issues with the fuel and electrical systems, she motored on up to Hobart. If you are in town admiring the Tall Ships you will find her in Constitution Dock nestled between the two fish and chip shops. A pleasant surprise was that she proved to be quite agile under sail, tacking easily back and forth across the harbour. We look forward to her participating in the ‘Parade of Sail’ next Wednesday. Rob Brocksopp sent this link to more (and entertaining) information about Rusich: http://is.gd/a5RQop …
Posted Sep 22, 2013, 1:12 AM by Unknown user
Tall Ships in MelbourneOur correspondent sent these pictures. The fleet is now well on its way to a REAL harbour at Hobart – for instance Lord Nelson and Oosterschelde being out of range of normal tracking (presumably somewhere down the west coast). Feature ships are described on the festival website: http://australianwoodenboatfestival.com.au/tallships/featureships Pictures from Ben Forster
Posted Sep 17, 2013, 2:15 AM by Unknown user
Sail with Capricornia to the Tall ShipsPiet Lunstedt is seeking ‘deck hands’ to help him take Capricornia from Kettering up to Hobart for the Tall Ships on Friday 20th, and to sail the return leg after participating in the ‘Parade of Sail’ on Wednesday 25th. Should be a great couple of days on the water. If you are interested contact him on 0419 570 158
Posted Sep 16, 2013, 3:28 PM by Unknown user
Reminder: Safety Boat Training (28th September)This course is intended for anybody who might be involved with water based activities at the LBT, not just those who are going to crew safety boats. It’s a good start for anybody who has thought about helping out on a Swallows and Amazons excursion or a Swiftsure Regatta but has felt tentative about having the skills to contribute.The day will run from 10am to 3pm. For more details see http://tinyurl.com/m7tkn6t Cost is $20.00 per person (for fuel and a contribution to the LBT). Book by entering your name into the form below and clicking on ‘Submit’ (if you are viewing this message in an email you will need to follow the ‘read on …
Posted Sep 15, 2013, 5:18 PM by Unknown user
Here’s how it’s done young ‘unsDave Melville took these pictures of John Young sorting out the rigging on Leofleda after her recent refit.
Posted Sep 11, 2013, 1:15 AM by Richard Forster
Fund RaisingA new button has appeared on website menu bar: Fund Raising. Click it and you will see suggestions for activities to help us earn the income we need to stay afloat (in the financial rather than nautical sense). There is a link to a form for submission of new ideas (http://tinyurl.com/m4xoktl ). If you have an inspiration we want to hear about it, so please use this form. pic Classical Numismatic Group, Inc
Posted Sep 7, 2013, 3:40 PM by Unknown user
The Tall Ships are comingPaul Cullen has written to remind us to get involved with this festival – 20th to the 25th of September. There is a complete itinerary on the website http://australianwoodenboatfestival.com.au/tallships .
Posted Sep 21, 2013, 8:57 PM by Unknown user
LeofledaThose of us coming up the highway from south of Franklin were concerned about a serious hole that appeared in the riverscape where Leofleda had been moored. Turns out our worries were misplaced: she was just spending a few weeks in the shed being tended to by John and Ruth Young and Chris Burke. She emerged last week, looking all shiny and new and is already back on that mooring. (Thanks to Hans Sipsma for pics)
Posted Sep 7, 2013, 8:42 AM by Unknown user
Our sponsorsLiz Emery pointed out that a gaping omission in the report on our AGM/Quiz night that appeared in this column was an acknowledgement of the sponsors who donated prizes. They were great prizes and your correspondent didn’t win any, so perhaps he had repressed this memory. A late thank you to Franklin Marine, Heriots Point Winery, Village Antiques, Griggs Butchers, Franklin Accommodation, Huon Valley Wine Cellars, Franklin Haircuts, and the Lady Franklin Hotel. We value our sponsors, and in fact the first thing you find if you click on the ‘About Us’ on our website is a list of them: http://tinyurl.com/mjqpl52
Posted Sep 4, 2013, 6:04 PM by Unknown user
Yukon East Coast OdysseyFor those wanting to follow David, Ewan and the crew on the Yukon, there is a blog being maintained at http://eastcoastodyssey.wildiaries.com/trip_days . They are currently off Twofold Bay taking passengers out on day trips to see the abundant wildlife.
Posted Sep 2, 2013, 3:01 PM by Unknown user
Off to a flyerLast Thursday Dunally Primary School students came to the LBT for the first of the numerous ‘On the Water’ program events scheduled for this spring. They participated in the wide range of activities organised by Glynn Shevels and were a very happy, busy bunch. Thanks to all the volunteers who supported this event. I think we enjoyed it as much as the kids! We would also like to acknowledge Colony47 who sponsored this event as part of the bushfire recovery program.Pictures from Graham Wright and Doug Emery
Posted Aug 31, 2013, 7:25 PM by Unknown user
Happy New LBT YearAbout 40 revellers gathered at the Palais Theatre on Saturday 24th of August to welcome in the new LBT year with a quiz night hosted by the inimitable and indomitable David Pittaway. Along the way they heard a summary of the year past from Peter Laidlaw (http://tinyurl.com/loeet9p), dismissed the outgoing committee and elected a new one. The new committee is: President: Peter Laidlaw Treasurer: Liz Emery Secretary: Richard Forster Ordinary members: Maxine Oates, Ros Barnett, Endra O’May, Jenny O’Connor, Glynn Shevels, Graham Rankin, Doug EmeryThanks to those members who served on the committee during 2012-13 and did not restand: Richard Edwards, Chris Wilson, Tess Hallinan, Ali McRae, Jilly Archer and Laurence Burgin. Chris …
Posted Sep 5, 2013, 1:32 PM by Unknown user
Safety boat training in-serviceGlynn Shevels writes: ‘As part of of our responsibility to safety on the water, an in-service on the role of the safety boat will be held on Saturday 28thSeptember 10am to 3pm. This in-house training session will be largely practical and will address the following topics.Role of the safety boatTowing of boatsDealing with accidents:swamped boatsboats that have run agroundrower in the waterFor more details see http://tinyurl.com/m7tkn6tCost is $20.00 per person (for fuel and a contribution to the LBT). Book by entering your name into the form below and clicking on ‘Submit’ (if you are viewing this message in an email you will need to go …
Posted Aug 30, 2013, 5:34 PM by Unknown user
Coming event in FranklinVillage Antiques, an LBT sponsor, is holding an auction at the Palais Theatre on Sunday 8th of September. For more details see the flyer at http://tinyurl.com/ldot2lq .
Posted Aug 25, 2013, 3:10 PM by Unknown user
News from LBT Member David EllisOver summer David was on Tawe Nunnugah and a regular on Monday nights, when he regaled us with stories about his time working on the Canadian east coast. During a recent email exchange we enquired about his whereabouts, and received the following reply. Still in Lunenburg [Nova Scotia]. Always meant to write “The Shipping News” back to LBT. Here is a snippet: Tomorrow Franklin has a distant link in the international dory races:Tasmanian Kath Moore is rowing with Gayle Atchinson (see interview in link below) against Gloucester. They should win. Kath owns the Griffiths “Seabird” which Nell had anchored at Franklin the year before last.http://www.cbc.ca/player/Shows/ID/2402521605/ David
Posted Aug 30, 2013, 3:44 PM by Unknown user
Progress at the shedWhy isn’t Tess Hallinan disappearing in the cloud of wood dust from her sanding? Because the dust extractor suspended over her is filtering it all out. We are hoping this arrangement will make the extractor more useful – when it’s down at bench level it tends to get in the way and shunted into a corner. Dennis is up to carving the decorations for our life member board. And the Sea Knight is getting a cabin roof.
Posted Aug 23, 2013, 5:38 AM by Unknown user
Mucking around in boatsThe spring boating season is rapidly approaching, and we can start to use our fleet on the water again. A good way to do this is to participate in the schools and the seniors expedition programs which are coming up. It’s a lot of fun, a good community activity, and it helps to raise funds for the LBT. Now there is a trifecta for you. Register your interest by giving Glynn Shevels a call or text on 0419 341493 or email him at gshevels@gmail.comDunally Primary: 29th August 17th SeptemberSeniors Week: Tuesday 1st Oct 10.30am – 3.30pm Swallows and Amazons Thursday 3rd Oct 10.30am – 3.30pm Three Men in a Boat Saturday 5th Oct …
Posted Aug 21, 2013, 12:04 AM by Unknown user
More pipe neededPlastic this time. Syrah, currently being completed by the WOW group, needs to have a large hole cut in her forrard bulkhead and pipe installed in the forrard compartment to accommodate the storage of oars. The pipe needs to be about 1.1 metres long and 250 mm (10″) in diameter. Anybody got something like this they are willing to donate? Email sec@lbt.org.au
Posted Aug 20, 2013, 3:51 PM by Unknown user
Seahorse coming togetherA freshly painted Seahorse has her restored motor fitted.
Posted Aug 20, 2013, 3:55 PM by Unknown user
Radio Living Boat Trust up and runningA shore based radio has been installed by the back porch, where the operator will have a good view of the river and what is going on there. It will be great for supervising water based activities. This has largely been organised by Jimmy West and Graham Wright – thanks guys. They are looking to form a radio interest group with Glynn Shevels as their committee representative, and are already talking about courses. Find out more on the LBT Radio Interest Group web page.
Posted Aug 22, 2013, 1:09 AM by Unknown user
Ah Tasmania!Last Thursday we waved goodbye to Yukon from the end of the marina jetty in the middle of a rainstorm. Twenty minutes later LBT member Jill Edwards snapped this picture of her in golden afternoon light as she approached Herriot’s Point. Winter in Franklin, spring a few kilometres down the river.
Posted Aug 20, 2013, 5:47 AM by Unknown user
And then there was oneGraham Wright recently donated a collection of black, folding beer garden chairs to the Trust. They were particularly handy because they took up so little storage room when not in use. Trouble is, all but one of them has disappeared. We are hoping that somebody has borrowed them for a party or some such, and that they are about to reappear. Are you that somebody?
Posted Aug 19, 2013, 6:04 AM by Unknown user
Interesting article about LBT member Andy PerrySome of Andy’s service as a helicopter pilot in the Vietnam War is described in the Mercury, Sunday 18th August. To say that this service was ‘active’ is a wild understatement. It earned Andy a US Army Silver Star, which is the highest award for bravery that can be given to a non US citizen. The article is online at http://tinyurl.com/n352nlr . Thanks to Liz Emery for pointing this one out.(Picture from http://www.dailytelegraph.com.au)
Posted Aug 19, 2013, 4:32 AM by Unknown user
Reminder: AGM and Quiz nightBlock out the entry in your diary for next Saturday 24th August: it’s the LBT AGM and Quiz night. The AGM starts at 6pm sharp at the Palais Theatre, Franklin. There will be copies of key documents, including agenda, treasurer’s report, 2012-13 financial statement and auditor’s report, available on the night. In the meantime they can be found at http://tinyurl.com/orkdl6p .As advertised the AGM will be followed by food, drink and a quiz night – bar opens 6.45pm and all welcome, $5 members, $10 non members. Soup and bread will be available for $5 a serve. Members are asked to bring a plate that can be shared.Bookings for tables are starting to …
Posted Aug 18, 2013, 6:37 AM by Unknown user
Farewell Yukon On Thursday afternoon Yukon slipped her moorings, gave a blast of farewell on her foghorn to the assembled well-wishers, and departed for Cygnet with an excursion group on the first leg of her East Coast Odyssey. We wish her fair winds. Thanks to Dennis Muscovich’s beautifully carved compass cover she takes a little bit of Franklin with her wherever she goes.(pic from Jonathan Wherrett)
Posted Aug 19, 2013, 5:02 AM by Unknown user
Safety at the shed: can you help?Phil Dunning and Graham Rankin have added non-slip treads to the steps and wire mesh to the small deck outside the back door. Now all we need are some rails. We are thinking ordinary galvanised 3/4″ pipe, which can be welded up. Got any laying around you are prepared to donate? Email sec@lbt.org.au if you do. As you can see from the picture below we don’t need long lengths. Whilst on the topic of safety, Graham has reorganised all our safety and first aid equipment onto a set of shelves just inside the front door, along with induction forms and other related documents. If you are working in or around the shed you should …
Posted Aug 16, 2013, 4:10 PM by Unknown user
Diesel course gets the thumbs upDave Melville attended the course at Franklin Marine last Sunday. ‘The stucture of the course is well thought-out, with a selection of sample engines and their various component parts on hand, plus the range of necessary tools and spares to be kept on board a boat to keep things humming along smoothly. It covers both maintainance and trouble-shooting. After all, Murphy and his Law are stowaways by nature.I’ld say to anybody, if you don’t already know this stuff, then put your name down for the next course. On a lee shore one day it might save not only your engine, but your boat and your life as well. Good value. ‘There is more eulogizing, but …
Posted Aug 13, 2013, 9:37 PM by Unknown user
Maritime Museum InternshipsThe Australian National Maritime Museum (in Sydney) are advertising for applicants for their internship program. For more details see their website – http://www.anmm.gov.au/site/page.cfm?u=1918 and the application form http://is.gd/57TQOm . If you want to go ahead with an application contact the LBT secretary: sec@lbt.org.au
Posted Aug 13, 2013, 9:48 PM by Unknown user
Welcome back Ullapoolers: Saturday 10thLorrie Harrison writes:Yes, they are back (Laura will return in a few more weeks)Our team of intrepid St Ayles Skiff rowers have returned from Ullapool. Come along and welcome them home as well as finding out about their adventures. Place: LBT shedDate: Saturday 10 AugustTime: 4pmBring: food to share, your own drinks and anyone interested.See you Saturday
Posted Aug 7, 2013, 5:41 AM by Unknown user
Out with the old, in with the new (old)Over the weekend David Pittaway reclaimed his band saw. Thanks David, it has given us good service. On Monday night the ‘new’ band saw was moved into it’s place. At least it looks new, after all the spit and polish that Phil Dunning has applied to it, but Peter Laidlaw informs us that it came from Athol Walters’ yard at Shipwrights Point and goodness knows where from before that. So it has provenance, but ‘new’, no. (pic from Jimmy West)
Posted Aug 13, 2013, 9:47 PM by Unknown user
Organising the AGM and Quiz nightThere will be printed copies of documents provided at the AGM (6pm, 24th August, at the Palais). These documents, including agenda, treasurer’s report, 2012-13 financial statement and auditor’s report can be found at http://tinyurl.com/orkdl6p .As advertised the AGM will be followed by food, drink and a quiz night – bar opens 6.45pm and all welcome, $5 members, $10 non members. At the shed there is a table booking sheets for the quiz night. Alternatively you can book online at: http://lbt.rforster.org/quiz-night-booking
Posted Aug 6, 2013, 6:09 AM by Richard Forster
Farewell dinner for ‘Yukon’ Monday August 12thA familiar (and comforting) shape is about to disappear from the end of the Franklin Marina jetty. Yukon is departing on her East Coast Odyssey and we don’t anticipate seeing her again until summer. To wish David and Ea the best with this venture we are holding a farewell dinner on Monday August 12th, 7.30pm at the shed. It will be the usual Monday working bee + dinner but more betterer. All invited. Cost $10. RSVP sec@lbt.org.au
Posted Aug 1, 2013, 8:50 PM by Unknown user
A different boating fantasyYou never know what is being built in the sheds back in them thar hills. This is Higgledy Piggledy, LBT memberSarah Sandford’s creation. We hope to see it being propelled by its electric motor around Franklin waterways shortly.
Posted Aug 1, 2013, 8:22 PM by Unknown user
Cartela going on the slipRoss James of the Cartela consortium writes:‘Are you able to mention to the Living Boat Trust volunteers that Cartela will be on the Domain number one slip (below the Hobart cenotaph) from the 10th of October to the 18th? If any are interested in getting a close look at Cartela out of the water this would be a good time. Of course we will have a few spare paint brushes and rollers around if they want to get ‘up close and personal’ . This slipping is the first occasion where the bill is being picked up by the SteamShip Cartela Trust courtesy of a one off grant from the state government. Anything that reduced the cost of the …
Posted Jul 31, 2013, 4:13 AM by Unknown user
LBT Quiz Night 24th August The traditional post AGM quiz night is ON. The AGM is scheduled to finish at 6.45pm, there will be a break for food and drink, and then David Pittaway (the admirable admiral of quiz nights) will order us all to our seats at 7.30 and get proceedings under way. There will be door and table prizes and lots of fun. Bring plenty of pieces of eight (gold coins that is) for some ‘heads and tails’ and bribery and corruption during the quiz. Cost: $5.00 per head (members), $10.00 a head non membersWhere: Palais Theatre, FranklinWhen: Bar opens 6.45pm, 24th AugustSoup and Bread $5.00 a bowlMembers please bring a plate to …
Posted Jul 30, 2013, 4:27 PM by Unknown user
Sparks fly at the LBT on Monday nightPhil Dunning and Steve Campbell make some ‘minor’ adjustments to the band saw cover prior to fitting the doors. Meanwhile at the other end of the shed Peter Heading and Rob got on with stacking a very large load of Celery Top Pine donated by Roger Linnell onto the new rack built by Dave Melville. This wood will be perfect for ribs and gunwales, and Dave’s rack means it is no longer cluttering up the loft.
Posted Jul 30, 2013, 1:53 AM by Unknown user
Diesel Courses at Franklin MarineThe next hands on beginners courses will be delivered at the chandlery on Sunday 28th July (women) Sunday 11th August (mixed)10am to 4.30pm. Details and a booking form can be found at http://franklinmarine.com.au/marine-diesel-engines-for-beginnersThese courses are popular, so the advise is to book early.
Posted Jul 24, 2013, 1:00 AM by Unknown user
Rusich in the newsCatch the item ‘Tasmanians in bid to revive replica Viking ship as tourist attraction’ on Monday’s ABC News? Jimmy West stars, and Brett’s boat gets some free advertising too. If you missed it you can view it at http://is.gd/Ihwvp7 and Jimmy has more on his blog at http://thegreenhuon.blogspot.com.au/
Posted Jul 28, 2013, 5:48 PM by Unknown user
Call for nominations for the LBT CommitteeOne of the major tasks for the AGM to be held on August the 24th is to elect a committee for 2013-14. Nomination forms have been printed and can be collected from the LBT shed. Alternatively download and print one from http://tinyurl.com/m6fuwhmBoth nominators and nominatees need to be financial members, so get that sorted out first (or at the same time) if it is an issue. For details about membership payments see http://tinyurl.com/mr52v7zWe (on the current committee) strongly encourage every member to consider nominating. All committees needs a periodic infusion of new ideas, new expertise and new enthusiasm. The Trust is in a stable financial position, the membership is actively and …
Posted Jul 19, 2013, 5:31 PM by Unknown user
Progress at the ShedLots of good things happening whilst the weather is keeping us off the water.Seahorse is getting it’s seats back and a paintout after its major refit.Those antique looking wheels beside the oar store are part of a large bandsaw, which with the addition of proper guards could be very useful. Phil Dunning is on the job.Dennis is modelling some decorations for the top of the Life Members board.The Sea Knight is getting a cabinand last, the horrible ‘temporary’ gas bottle balanced on top of a 44 gallon drum for the kitchen stove has been replaced by something more permanent (thanks Laurence).
Posted Jul 19, 2013, 5:32 PM by Unknown user
Stone carvingThe stone carving course with David Barclay was cancelled because of an apparent lack of interest, but at the last minute interested parties did turn up, the course did run, and the LBT lawn was a hive of activity last Saturday. Thank you David, those involved had a splendid time. (Pictures from Aspen Cauchi)
Posted Jul 18, 2013, 12:02 AM by Unknown user
Put this in your diaryWe are planning to hold the Living Boat Trust Annual General Meeting at 6 pm at the Palais Theatre on Saturday, August 24th. More details to follow.Recognise yourself in the photo above? We think it might have been the 2010 AGM
Posted Jul 15, 2013, 10:15 PM by Unknown user
Change of tack for FWWAAt their meeting on Sunday the members of the Franklin Working Waterfront Association voted to concentrate their efforts on purchasing the Wooden Boat Centre, rather than the Evaporator Sheds. They have already had discussions with the current owner of the Centre, Andy Gamlin, and are considering various schemes to raise the capital. The Living Boat Trust wishes them well and looks forward to working with them.
Posted Jul 18, 2013, 12:09 AM by Unknown user
Glynn the water walkerSpotted by Greg Guy:”Did anyone in the LBT realize that Glynn was a reincarnation of a well known character from history?”
Posted Jul 11, 2013, 8:45 PM by Unknown user
All the news from UllapoolThe posts from Jane Johnson and Wendy Brown are coming in thick and fast. In order to prevent them flooding this news page (and having our ordinary readers die of envy) they have been moved to the LBT WOW page: http://lbt.rforster.org/home/wow . Go there to read all about it.
Posted Jul 11, 2013, 8:54 PM by Unknown user
WOW gets the Royal treatmentFirst reports from Jane Johnson (and pics from Wendy Brown) at the Ullapool (Scotland) St Ayles Skiff Championships. Day 1 “The place is beautiful,yesterday was the opening day and Marguerite was interviewed by BBC and ITV so will watch tonight. Everyone so friendly and helpful. Today is the long race and we have a male team going against blizzard winds to Ardmair and our crew is returning…will let you know how that goes. Yesterday perfect weather and met Princess Anne who spoke with genuine interest and enthusiasm – we did an oar salute…got to go ,Jane”Day 2″Hi again….Yesterday’s 4mile race to Ardmair was cancelled halfway due to fog! just like the Huon Valley fog …
Posted Jul 10, 2013, 3:52 PM by Unknown user
Martin Krynen visits the LBTFor some time we have been hoping for a visit from Martin, and Monday was finally the day. If what he had been waiting for was a real blast of Tassie winter he could not have been disappointed. For those of you who have missed the news in this column, Martin has restored a nearly century old Derwent fantail ferry called the Nancy in his shed on the Sunshine Coast – read all about it here and here. He has been looking for a Tasmanian home for her, and thinks that the LBT might be the right place. We agree! Besides being an ornament to the river she would be a very useful boat for all sorts of activities. This is …
Posted Jul 8, 2013, 10:05 PM by Unknown user
Membership renewal timeThe LBT year runs from June to July, so if you are a member now is the time to renew. Membership types are: Single – $40.00 pa Family – $70.00 pa Corporate – $125 paThere are instructions on how to make payments here
Posted Jul 3, 2013, 7:42 PM by Unknown user
Special General Meeting of the Franklin Working Waterfront AssociationWill be held on Sunday, 14th July, 2013 at 2.00pm at the Franklin Bowls Club. The only business will be the following motion – “That the Franklin Working Waterfront Association Inc., move to acquire the Wooden Boat Centre”.Sec. Merle Woolley. Image Ralph Cruickshank
Posted Jul 3, 2013, 12:48 AM by Richard Forster
Need a reminder of Summer?The chills and fogs of winter getting you down? Then escape for a moment into a summer past by reading this account of Tawe Nunnugah 2007 . John Young wrote it for ‘Classic Boat’ magazine, and has just dug it up for us to add to our history archive.
Posted Jun 30, 2013, 1:54 AM by Richard Forster
Get your LBT news on your smart phoneA smart phone (iPhone, Android etc) is fine for navigating the Living Boat Trust website, so there is no excuse for being out of touch, even if you are at sea! The screen shot below is an example of what you might see. It was taken on a low spec Samsung Galaxy. Note the ‘Search this site’ field at the top: this is always worth trying if you think there should be some information available, but can’t find it through the regular menus.
Posted Jul 2, 2013, 1:04 AM by Richard Forster
Dunally Water Awareness Days RescheduledDunally Primary School will now be coming to Franklin for a water awareness program on 29th of August and the 17th of September. On the first of these days the children, from grade 6, will be working in the shed. Likely activities are making wooden boats, steaming wood, and stripping an outboard motor. On the second day they will be concentrating on water awareness – finding out about tides, weather, map reading etc, followed by a rowing expedition around Egg Island.We need volunteers to help on both days for rescue boat, model making and rowing instruction. Please contact Glynn Shevels – 0419 341493
Posted Jun 28, 2013, 6:46 PM by Richard Forster
Stone Cutting CourseCOURSE CANCELLED. (Need to get our advertising organised)David Barclay from the Tuesday group is a stone carver. He is offering to run a one day course starting 10am, 13th of July at the LBT shed Franklin. He will teach us how to carve bowls and birdbaths from stone. The cost will be $60. Bring your own rock, ear muffs, 100mm grinder (if you have one) and lunch. Complete the form below if you are interested – by 8th July.(See another picture below)
Posted Jul 9, 2013, 10:41 PM by Richard Forster
The Sea Knight gets to the ‘tricky’ stageCompleting the interior of the Sea Knight involves lots of interior angles and fine finishing – a challenge for those of us with modest carpentry skills.
Posted Jun 27, 2013, 7:16 AM by Richard Forster
‘Yukon’ on the 7.30 reportIf you missed seeing the show, catch up on ABC iView:http://www.abc.net.au/news/2013-06-21/scientific-adventure-on-the-high-seas/4773082
Posted Apr 12, 2016, 3:43 PM by Posts Editor
The ‘Sea Knight’ emerges from hibernationShe has suddenly sprouted mysterious prongs pointed towards her bow. What next? Wings? We wait with baited breath.
Posted Jun 11, 2013, 5:46 AM by Richard Forster
The Cruising Yacht Club en route to FranklinNot wanting to expose the Cruising Yacht Club to the perils of the mud banks and twisting channel between Castle Forbes Bay and Franklin, Dave Melville motor-sailed down to Port Huon and led them up. And a fine site they were from the back of his boat.
Posted Jun 9, 2013, 4:32 AM by Richard Forster
The Big TopWith some head scratching and with several different tent erection philosophies being put into action at the one time, Liz Smith’s community marquee goes up for yet another event. This time it is for the visit of the Cruising Yacht Club: in the past it has been the Tucker Tent on Tawe Nunnugah, at the Taste of Huon, the Focus on Franklin, for a garage sale and many more occasions which we can’t remember ‘cos we are failing in the remembering department. The marquee has been a huge asset – thanks Liz.(thanks to Graham Wright for pics)
Posted Jun 6, 2013, 6:53 PM by Richard Forster
Fillum night at the shedSteve Campbell introduced a new fangled after dinner entertainment on Monday night: courtesy of a DVD produced by Mystic Seaport we rounded the Horn in 1929 with Captain Irving Johnson aboard the windjammer Peking. It is a classic period piece, and a health and safety officer’s nightmare. It reminded the Tawe Nunnugahns of the passage from Recherche to Southport. You can get a taste here. Thanks Steve, we enjoyed it.
Posted Jun 8, 2013, 4:23 AM by Richard Forster
Visit by Cruising Yacht ClubAt the Monday night dinner Laurence Burgin (of Franklin Marine) reminded us that the Cruising Yacht Club visit previously advertised in this column is now upon us – next Sunday. If you would like to help please be around the Marina to assist with organising docking after 10.15am (high tide) – it would be appreciated. This event was a lot of fun when it occurred last year. The marquee will be erected, and there will be activities – Laurence is de mon if you have enquiries.
Posted Jun 4, 2013, 2:53 PM by Richard Forster
Swiftsure Saturday goes sailingWhen it comes to choosing between heaving on the sweeps or being wafted along by a gentle breeze, there really isn’t any contest, at least not in the minds of the Swiftsure Saturday team. Rowing may be great physical recreation, but we nautical philosophers favour a more contemplative means of propulsion, conducive to Deep Thought. Sails are it.
Posted May 27, 2014, 4:24 PM by Unknown user
Documentary to listen out for on ABC RadioAt 10.00am this coming Sunday (June 2nd) Chris Wisbey will be presenting a documentary about George Dibbern on Tasmanian local ABC. George was a globe trotting sailor, philosopher and author with strong links to Tasmania and, in particular, the Channel. He had farms on both Satellite and Partridge Islands. He had the misfortune to be an eccentric living in ‘interesting times’, which is our good fortune as it makes for a very interesting story. To find out more visit the website: http://georgedibbern.com
Posted May 30, 2013, 4:47 AM by Richard Forster
The ‘before’ shotDennis Muscovich has started work on a display board to honour our life members. It will, we think, be one of the few such boards in existence made from Celery Top Pine, which was donated by Roger Linnell. Dennis is an exceptional wood carver, but we hope in this case he will keep it simple. There will be nowhere to put the names if we let him have his head.
Posted May 30, 2013, 2:07 AM by Richard Forster
How many people does it take to shift Gretchen a metre?It depends on which metre. To get her out from under the verandah and ready to go in the water it took as many as you can count in the picture below, plus a couple out of shot. Seahorse was moved into her slot, and half the shed was emptied for new projects.
Posted May 30, 2013, 1:21 AM by Richard Forster
‘Olive May’ presentation at the MuseumInvitation from the museum: Once you’ve restored a priceless heritage vessel, what do you do with her? Entrepreneur Sean Langman has recently restored 1880s passage boat Olive May. In this talk he discusses the restoration process, but also shares the challenges and pleasures o$Time: 12.00- 1.00 pm Tuesday 4 June.Place: Royal Society Room, Tasmanian Museum & Art Gallery, Davey St entrance.Phone the Maritime Museum on 62341427 for more details.
Posted May 29, 2013, 6:35 PM by Richard Forster
Watch out for Yukon on the 7.30 ReportIt was all ‘cameras and action’ for David and Ea aboard Yukon on Monday as the 7.30 Report filmed an item about their upcoming East Coast Odyssey with Jennifer Lavers. Thanks to Nell Tyson for the accompanying photos.
Posted May 29, 2013, 6:11 AM by Richard Forster
New Chairs for the ShedGraham Wright heard the wail when we ran out of chairs for the Ullapool Team farewell. Being a man of action he collared for us a dozen folding beer garden chairs that the Kermandie Pub were giving away. They are perfect!Thanks Graham.
Posted May 28, 2013, 4:22 AM by Richard Forster
Where is Peter Laidlaw?For those who have been wondering where our leader (‘The Great Rudder’) of the LBT has been these last few weeks here is the explanation. He has been building prams: dinghies that is, over at the Wooden Boat Centre. They are coming up a treat. One is constructed from Huon Pine, the other from salvaged King Billy. Peter has been doing this with a number of students as part of the regular short course program the Centre delivers: have a look at http://www.woodenboatcentre.com/html/short_courses.html if you are interested.
Posted May 29, 2013, 3:13 PM by Richard Forster
Dinghy maintenance season is here againThe WOW group are doing a great job scraping and painting the Huon Rat. There is plenty more where the Rat comes from – just look at Viking in the background of the picture below.
Posted May 25, 2013, 2:55 AM by Richard Forster
Swiftsure Saturday is up and rowingNell Tyson coxed what will hopefully be the first of many sessions in Swiftsure to get more of us familiar with rowing and sailing her. It was a great way to blow out the cobwebs and get out on the water. The only incident to report involved a duck which refused to take off as we bore down on it, and then transformed itself into a log which scraped past on the port side.
Posted May 30, 2013, 6:12 AM by Richard Forster
The shed is open for business on ThursdaysAs Graham Rankin announced a couple of weeks ago, Thursdays are the new Tuesdays with a range of projects being worked on. Steve Campbell took the opportunity to come down and polish off any tarnishing that had accumulated on the Scout motor for Seahorse in the couple of days since he had last seen it. The way he has it gleaming it must be the best example of its type in existence. Hands off Maritime Museum.
Posted May 24, 2013, 3:26 AM by Richard Forster
More tools for the shedA couple of weeks ago we reported on a valuable collection of power tools donated by Brett Doubleday. This week somebody murmured in his presence that we were short of screwdrivers, and presto! Part of the collection that he brought to our doorstep is shown below. The question is, what else does he have under his house?Thanks Brett
Posted May 27, 2013, 1:43 AM by Richard Forster
Swiftsure rowing Saturday morningAt Monday night’s dinner captain John Young had to explain the SHOCKING DEFEAT OF SWIFTSURE in a match race with Imagine. In the back stalls there were mutterings about manipulation of odds and ‘colourful Sydney racing identities’ and fortunes lost and gained, and things were looking ominous for a while. As it happened, and not for the first time, old silver tongue John was able to talk his way out of a tight corner where a less able sea lawyer might have ended up swinging from the yard arm. The recommendation of this informal court of enquiry was that a Swiftsure rowing team needs to start training NOW, so that this NEVER HAPPENS AGAIN. If you want to hang …
Posted May 22, 2013, 2:56 PM by Richard Forster
World Record LBT Monday Night DinnerMore than fifty people turned up to farewell the Ullapool crew, who are headed off to compete in the St Ayles Skiff Championships. As the Scottish “Mercury” reports “The Australians are coming….and they mean business”. Perhaps the highlight of a fabulous night of speeches, good food and rough red was Peter Laidlaw serenading us on the bagpipes – his contribution to preparing the crew for what awaits them in the auld country.Pictures Shane Johnson
Posted May 21, 2013, 11:23 PM by Richard Forster
Five (oversize) men in an (undersize) boatAnd that boat was the mighty Viking, our piners’ launch from the Gordon River brought to us by Simon Pargeter. The intrepid mariners were taking her from the swampy berth where she has been laid up for many months around to the boat ramp. The good news was she floated! She is coming into the shed for restoration.Photos: Graham Wright
Posted May 27, 2013, 1:35 AM by Richard Forster
Imagine v Swiftsure grudge matchThe St Ayles Skiff team competing in the world championships in Ullapool in July is into their last weeks of training in Franklin. A picturesque Huon Valley Sunday was the setting for the inaugural race of the whaleboat Swiftsure against the Women-On-Water built St Ayles Skiff Imagine.The course was set from the Wooden Boat Centre, around Rat Island and back in near-perfect conditions. Just over 22 minutes of racing later, Imagine nosed across the line, using skills and tactics to manoeuvre around Rat Island in the lead and stay ahead for the homeward stretch.The Imagine crew of five have been training weekly since February and are now down to the last handful of training sessions …
Posted May 20, 2013, 4:05 PM by Richard Forster
Breakfast at Franklin Market next Sunday morning – help wantedHere is a great opportunity to demonstrate you hospitality and roustabout skills – serving the soup and sausages and erecting the ‘big top’. Come along and be part of the fun. If you can help email sec@lbt.org.au.
Posted May 19, 2013, 4:28 AM by Richard Forster
Polished and preenedFortunately the Simplex motor from Seahorse is held together by more than rust and barnacles, because there is not too much of that left now that Steve Campbell and the team have finished with her. Brass is lovely stuff once it is cleaned up.
Posted May 15, 2013, 7:48 PM by Richard Forster
Seahorse being prepared for paintingSeahorse is getting a lot more attention than she is used to. Little does she realise it is all so that she can be completed as soon as possible and ejected into the cold and gloom of the Huon winter, so that other projects can occupy her space. Such is life for a vessel of the LBT.
Posted May 14, 2013, 12:26 AM by Richard Forster
Olive May sailing the milk run: TV reportThe ‘Huon News’ (8th May) reported that: ‘The Olive May, Australia’s oldest huon pine in-charter sailing vessel, is to chart a journey to Hobart this week, following the long past history of river travel, to collect from wharf’s and deliver fresh produce from around the region.’ She called at Franklin at 10.15 am May the 8th, to collect honey and other goods. There was a nice Stateline item about this on the 10th of May: view it here
Posted May 13, 2013, 6:06 PM by Richard Forster
Anyone for a Thursday Workshop?The committee has often discussed ways of keeping the shed open more often. During the time our wonderful “woofers” George and Johanna were with us we were spoilt by having the shed open most days. Of course we have our Monday night workshop and feast, our Tuesday group is going great guns with much happening and many new volunteers coming along to join the party. On Wednesdays and Fridays the WOW ladies, keen to maintain the momentum after completing the beautiful Imagine are now hard at it with maintenance on our Grebe fleet, with work just starting to complete the Whilly Tern Syrah.That leaves one glaring hole in the week, Thursday!With that in mind, starting next Thursday 16th …
Posted May 10, 2013, 1:30 AM by Richard Forster
Our new Bosun’s LockerDue to overwhelming demand (well, Endra suggested it) we have set up a ‘Bosun’s Locker’ page for selling and acquiring second hand equipment. Have a look here and see what you think (on the LBT homepage navigate to it from ‘Resources‘). Glynn Shevels is first cab off the rank: anybody want an electric winch?
Posted May 13, 2013, 4:14 PM by Richard Forster
Visit from Cruising Yacht ClubOn Sunday 9th of June the Cruising Yacht Club of Tasmania (and other associated clubs) will be visiting Franklin on their annual winter cruise. There will be activities in the afternoon, for instance rowing to Egg Island. In the evening a dinner will be served at the LBT shed which we encourage everybody to come to – RSVP (sec@lbt.org.au) is required and there will be a charge (to aid the Living Boat Trust of course).We need a couple of volunteers to help them dock – contact sec@lbt.org.auThis event was a lot of fun when it occurred last year – expect more announcements.
Posted May 9, 2013, 6:14 PM by Richard Forster
Farewell Dinner for the Ullapool CrewOn the 20th May the Monday night diners will be extending a welcome to the St Ayles Skiff crew and their friends. The long table might have to extended out through the double doors and into the car park to accommodate this one. We will be supping together to celebrate the imminent departure of the crew for Ullapool to compete in the championships which start on July 8th. We will be able to follow what is happening on this blog, or on Facebook
Posted May 8, 2013, 8:17 PM by Richard Forster
Women on the Water to the RescueSyrah, another beautiful double ender named after the grape that makes Shiraz wine, and designed by Iain Oughtred, who designed Imagine, was heading for a tragic fate as an unfinished project until she arrived on the verandah of the Living boat trust last Friday.Her owner is Louise Crossley, one of Tasmania’s great women –cientist, Green parliamentary candidate, and expedition leader in Antarctica. She has been a strong supporter of the LBT a keen rower, and participant in Tawe Nunnugah in the Swiftsure crew and on Yukon in 2013. Syrah had been nearly finished by boatbuilder Mike Seeney, when he became ill with ancer .He died last year. Chris Burke, founder of the Living Boat Trust back …
Posted May 11, 2013, 10:18 PM by Richard Forster
A musical SkiffNot so long ago the requirements for a hippy band were bare feet, dreadlocks, a tea chest bass and a tin whistle. If the ‘Sephira Band’ is anything to go by the ante has been upped – to include a unicorn on sax, Lord of the Rings characters playing stringed instruments, AND a harp constructed from a St Ayles skiff! See them in action here – they are well worth a look!Margie Porte has been in contact with Michael Brolly who was in charge of the build, and they will both be in Ullapool for the championships. You will have to find out more for us Margie! In the meantime there is a website: http://www.themusicalark.org.
Posted May 5, 2013, 5:56 AM by Richard Forster
Water Awareness DaysColony 47 has organised two awareness days with us for Dunally Primary School on 28th May and 25th June. On the first of these days the children, from grade 6, will be working in the shed: making wooden boats, steaming wood, and stripping an outboard motor. On the second day (25th June) they will be concentrating on water awareness – finding out about tides, weather, map reading etc, followed by a three hour trip on Yukon down to Port Huon.We need volunteers to help on both days for rescue boat, model making and rowing instruction. Please contact Glynn Shevels – 0419 341493
Posted May 13, 2013, 5:36 PM by Richard Forster
Help for navigating from Port Huon to FranklinThe stretch of water between Port Huon and Franklin Marina is tricky to navigate in a boat with any sort of draught. David Nash demonstrated the problem to Graham Rankin and me one evening when he brought us upstream on the Yukon between tides, and located a mud bank off Herriot’s point with his keel! LBT member Doug Emery has created a custom Google Map to help alleviate this problem. It documents all the critical points along the way with both text and photos and with lots of useful advice for keeping on course. Get it from Doug’s site: http://www.setech-it.com.au/huon-river-navigation.html
Posted May 4, 2013, 4:38 PM by Richard Forster
Visitors to Franklin MarinaOne of the great outcomes of the Wooden Boat Festival back in February was the subsequent visit of the replica caravel Notorious and the ‘viking’ ship Russich to Franklin Marina. Thanks to Laurence Burgin of Franklin Marine for initiating this. Both of these boats generated a huge amount of interest, as they should have. Notorious has since departed, but if you have a look at her Facebook pages here and here you will see that Franklin and the Huon made a strong impression on her crew (you will need to sign in to Facebook and scroll down for the latter link).Rusich meanwhile is still with us, a startling site for those tourists who happen to glance across when motoring …
Posted Apr 30, 2013, 8:38 PM by Richard Forster
New gear shift for our Evinrude OutboardAnybody who has used our Evinrude outboard in the recent past would be aware of its ‘tricky’ gearshift. Andre Cook bravely volunteered to fix it, but quickly discovered that if the job was to be done properly a brand new gear lever would need to be manufactured – a daunting task unless you have Phil Dunning on hand. Phil set to work with his lathe and taps and dies, and that lever is now installed. Thanks Andre and Phil!
Posted May 3, 2013, 5:34 AM by Richard Forster
Vetting our radio collectionOur collection of two way radios took a fair beating during the Tawe Nunnugah Raid, but Graham Wright has sorted them out. Aside from checking them for physical defects he has, set them all to the correct channel (77)low powerwhere available, dual channel watch (77 and 16)He will be doing a radio workshop with both the Monday evening and Tuesday groups shortly.Thanks Graham!
Posted Apr 30, 2013, 12:18 AM by Richard Forster
The LBT does breakfast at Franklin MarketApril’s Franklin Market had the benefit of Ali McRae’s excellent pumpkin soup, Ros Barnett’s vegetable frittatas, and a range of warming fare for a chilly Huon morning. It was the smallest market ever, according to one of the stalwarts, but we still turned a profit, and perhaps it was a good way for us to get started (we haven’t been here before). Thanks to all those who helped – it wouldn’t have happened without you. These sorts of events are really important to the Trust’s finances and there needs to be more of them in future. But it was not just about the money – it was a great opportunity to spend time with LBT members …
Posted Apr 28, 2013, 5:55 PM by Richard Forster
Visit by Martin KrynenMartin Krynen, who is contemplating gifting the Trust the motor launch Nancy, is anticipating coming to our committee meeting on May the 9th to discuss details. Nancy is a gorgeous old Derwent ferry, and this is an incredibly generous offer on Martin’s part. We are looking forward to meeting him. You can find out more about Nancy and her restoration here(Note: This visit has been postponed for a couple of weeks. We will keep you informed about its outcome)
Posted May 3, 2013, 2:49 PM by Richard Forster
Heading for UllapoolNow that daylight saving has ended, one of the more startling evening events down at the shed has been the arrival of the Ullapool rowing team, emerging from the gloom after their training session, with their oars over their shoulders. They make the rest of us, who at that time are only thinking about what’s for dinner, feel quite guilty. To find out more about their progress towards competing in the St Ayles Skiff championships in Scotland, head on over to the WOW blog
Posted Apr 24, 2013, 10:32 PM by Richard Forster
Yukon’s ‘East Coast Odyssey’Last night at the LBT dinner David Nash described an expedition that the Yukon will be making up the east coast of the Australian mainland (the ‘north island’ to us). There will be a number of scientists aboard, and a primary purpose of the voyage will be to monitor coastal pollution along the way. There are spare births for participant passengers. This sounds like a super exciting opportunity. For more details check out the website: http://wildiaries.com/tours/90-East-Coast-Odyssey
Posted Apr 22, 2013, 6:04 PM by Richard Forster
‘New’ Tools for the LBTBrett Doubleday has donated a mitre saw, a saw stand, a circular saw, a linisher and some nice long levels. These will be invaluable in the workshop. Thanks Brett!
Posted Apr 16, 2013, 12:47 AM by Richard Forster
Seahorse gets some new ribsIt wasn’t so long ago that Seahorse was held together by paint and patches of canvas, but with the likes of Brett Doubleday and Steve McCusker working on her she will soon be enjoying a new lease of life.
Posted Apr 21, 2013, 3:27 PM by Richard Forster
Phil Renouf Memorial LectureOn the 21st March John Young delivered this lecture to a Sydney Heritage Fleet (http://www.shf.org.au) dinner in Sydney. Their flagship is the James Craig, so they out-gun us just a little. John’s theme was “Wooden Boat Building: Not a Dying Art”, and (of course) the Living Boat Trust features heavily. If, perchance, you weren’t at that dinner you are in luck – John has generously put the lecture online – find it here. It’s a great read – we are really privileged to have John as our house historian.
Posted Apr 15, 2013, 2:16 AM by Richard Forster
Gretchen is nearly there!Peter Hill applies a final coat of primer to the restored gunwales.The lee boards get sanded off preparatory to painting and re-installation.
Posted Apr 12, 2015, 6:09 PM by Posts Editor
