Dear Members,
I trust that you are well and coping with the current situation, however, if you find that you are in need of anything that we can help you with please do not hesitate to contact us. We are here to help.
A few days ago there was confusion about the use of boats during this time as non-essential travel is not permitted. The requirement to stay home appeared to exclude all forms of recreational boating. In recent announcements there have been some opportunities provided that allow us to get out on the water. Exercise is included as being essential and therefore sailing, fishing, paddling, kayaking, etc. is permitted. We are grateful for these boating opportunities that we have been provided with, however it does not mean that it is ‘business as usual’ and it is really important that boating is done in strict compliance with the regulations that have been put in place or we risk tighter restrictions being imposed.
Easter is normally a time when many of us think of heading away in the boat for a few days. This Easter is different. Our Prime Minister has asked us to “stay at home” and it is really important at this time that we follow those instructions to reduce the community transmission of the virus.
Additionally, while off-the-beach sailing is a great form of exercise, gathering on the lawn is prohibited. I urge you to be mindful and observe social distancing requirements while rigging and packing up the boat on the centreboard lawn. If there are too many other people on the lawn area please delay your activity until it is less busy.
There has been a very good graphic put together by the Boating Industry Association that explains what is allowed and also reminds boat owners of the social distancing requirements currently in place. Please take a moment to study that image and also read the following advice that the BIA has provided: -
Stay Home. Only go boating if you determine it meets the criteria of essential travel. If you do, only go out boating by observing the Health advice and regulations in your State which may include:
- getting essential supplies such as food (for example this includes fishing in NSW) and groceries (return home without delay)
- taking physical exercise in non-powered craft such as paddling and sailing is permitted in NSW
- complying with your legal obligations that includes life safety, environmental protection and property protection associated with your boat.
If you are boating for a legitimate reason in NSW, you must:
- only go out on your own or with one other person or with ‘people of the same household going out together’
- keep at least 1.5m apart from people you do not live with which includes no gathering or rafting up
- wash your hands before and after any time there is contact with shared surfaces for example when fuelling or at any other time you come in contact with any hard surface outside the family home
- take the most direct route to the water and only boat locally
- wear a lifejacket, especially if solo
- remember You’re the Skipper – You’re Responsible
- follow the official advice so boating is seen as part of the solution and recovery, and not a problem to be banned.
The rules around permissible activities are constantly changing and if you are unclear it is better to stay home than risk spreading or catching the disease or getting a fine.
Our Boatyard remains open and our team and the tenants are here to assist with repairs and servicing of vessels. It is essential that vessels are maintained not only to look after your asset but also to protect the environment. Travel from your place of berthing to the boatyard for servicing the vessel is allowed.
The waterfront staff are continuing to keep a close eye on member’s vessels and again we ask if you have any specific needs that you would like our team to perform please give the Club a call or email waterfront@rpayc.com.au
Our tender service continues to operate during these times, albeit with some restrictions in place regarding the number of passengers. Please contact the Club if you require further information or would like to book the tender.
Our ‘Grab & Go’ take away option is pleasing many members and is available 7 days a week for your benefit. Please find details in the Club’s newsletter, website or call the Club if you would like further details.
With no formal yacht racing currently allowed our Sailing Office team have set up a series of virtual racing events and our initial trial of this last Saturday was very successful. Details on how you can be involved as a participant or as a spectator are in today’s Newsletter.
Please look after yourself and those around you. I hope that you have a happy and safe Easter.
Kind regards,
Craig Evans
General Manager
