Members may already be aware that there was a fire on board a boat at Holmeport Marina last week, resulting in three vessels being destroyed and others damaged, however thankfully nobody was hurt. 

It’s appropriate we take this opportunity to remind Members of some key safety requirements to mitigate the risk of fire at the Club.

• Shore power leads – are potentially dangerous if not regularly checked and maintained in this corrosive marine environment. Faulty leads, leads not fit for purpose can potentially result in fire, electric shock, damage to Club property and damage to vessels. To mitigate risk, the Club has a comprehensive ‘Ship to Shore Power Connection Policy’  outlining boat owners’ obligations in order to connect to shore power.  To mitigate risk resultant of faulty shore power leads, the Club requires all leads to be annually tested and tagged.  For the convenience of Members, the club provides a complimentary ‘test and tag’ service. Leads can be dropped off to Reception for testing. For vessels where the Club is unable to undertake the test, leads must be checked by an electrician.
• Equipment Leads – are also potentially dangerous if not regularly checked and maintained in this corrosive marine environment. Faulty equipment can potentially result in fire, electric shock or damage to Club property.  Members should arrange to have their equipment tested by an electrician.
• Storage combustible/Flammable Chemicals – where possible should not be stored on board or quantities lowest practical quantity. These include petrol, ethanol, methylated spirit, paint thinners, kerosene, acetone and diesel.  Safe Work NSW provides codes of practice information on flammable and combustible substances on their website www.safework.nsw.gov.au
• Solar boats with lithium-Ion Batteries – If your boat is equipped with Lithium-Ion batteries, it is important that you review the extinguisher on board your boat and do not store damaged lithium-ion batteries on board. Fires involving lithium-ion batteries are difficult to extinguish due to the increased temperature. around marina fixtures such as the pedestal, taps, cleats etc.

What to do if a boat fire occurs on the marina

• Raise the alarm immediately call triple zero 000 or use the manual call point (MCP) ‘break glass’ emergency call points located at the start of each marina arm.

• If a major fire occurs, immediately evacuate, and never attempt to extinguish fire yourself. 

  Emergency Evacuation Assembly Areas
  Assembly Area 1 – located at the middle car park
  Assembly Area 2 – Crystal Bay Car park

  Marina Evacuation Diagram 

  We take pride in fostering a proactive safe environment for everyone and we are dedicated to effectively managing and mitigating safety as well as environmental risks.