Tales of the Tingira Boat Club

Oysters & Jazz Day 2011 - best of the best

2011-04-07T16:41:00.001-07:00

A huge success for the Boat Club and I believe everybody had a wonderful day. Unfortunately, I was not there but these photos by Neville Prosser show what a fabulous time was had by all. Thanks Neville!

March Race Day

2011-03-12T15:32:00.001-08:00

A fantastic day with just the right amount of wind to send our fleet of five on their way.

Chris and Jill Ashton, Yolanda Yuen, Ron Notley, Barbara Cowell, Jeff Hiley and Brian Sutton were on the pontoon, which acted as start boat.

Our new VHF radios worked a treat, both on the pontoon and at the base station in the clubhouse. Ron did a marvellous job of communicating to all boats.

Some of the boats anchored in Dalpura overnight, whilst others sailed up in the morning.

Thanks to Sid for the photos of Bonnington's crew (a) fixing problems with the mainsail and (b) enjoying morning tea - there is something to be said for a stove on board!

First across the line was Bonnington - too fast for the photographers, I'm afraid, and we still don't have a single close photo of Bonnington under sail (pathetic plea to all photographers to please take a pic of our boat!!) A crew of five - skipper Guy, with Sid, Robert, Stewart and Alene as navvies - and the dratted dinghy which cost us a win (we claim!) Chris's photos show us ahead on the first leg of the race with (left) Rainman in the foreground and (right) Tycho Brahe in the foreground, all heading to Peel.

However, Sid's photo does prove we were in front of Not Duffers at this stage.

Next across the line was Not Duffers, with skipper Peter Fox and crew Michael Stephens. Crafty Peter to ask the most experienced member of our club to crew for him! And the one who knows the bay best!

John Walker's boat Rainman with Willem as crew followed, with Colin bringing up the rear with Tycho Brahe.

There was a close run to the finish, after just over two and a half hours, there was a margin of 30 seconds between Not Duffers in 1st position and Bonnington in 2nd position. Alene tried to claim 3rd for the Bonnington dinghy, which trailed faithfully behind all the way but denigrators scoffed and told her to tie it up before the race next time.

Valentine's Dinner 2011

2011-02-14T16:43:00.001-08:00

What a wonderful night! Carol seems to outdo herself at every function we have and the Duck lÓrange at our Valentine's Dinner was fantastic!!! Thanks to Jocelyn and Barb for helping her with the Caesar Salad and the Raspberry coulis for the dessert, which were yummy too.

We tried out a new band - Reg and Ellie who were great fun and played some wonderful numbers for us. Reg on guitar was terrific!!

Loved Ron and Val's decorations - even got to take the table centrepieces home!

And time to put your feet up at the end of the night.

Australia Day 2011

2011-02-02T10:43:00.001-08:00

The best picnic for a long time, brilliantly organised by Peter Deane and attended by more than 35 members of the Boat Club. We had many boats attending, from sailing vessels to cruisers and tinnies - I couldn't count them due to there being over 300 boats in Horseshoe Bay on the day.

Our picnic included an Australia Day quiz organised by Jocelyn. This was won by Team Sanctuary, thanks to Kerri's ability to lip read.

We had a rowing competition, which Janette won easily.

The damper competition was won by Val. After the judging, we all had the chance to taste the entries, smeared with butter and cockies joy. Yum!

And Margie won the prize for the best Australia Day outfit.

Happy New Year

2011-01-04T12:32:00.000-08:00

Whilst the Tingira Club members partied on at various venues around the island, perhaps it is time to remember a couple of Absent Friends ... Phil Washington, currently on the high seas in the Atlantic and much envied by more than one club member. Have a great time, Phil! We are all thinking of you and being kept up to date with your news by Ruth.

And Guy Le Plastrier, now a member of RAAN. Proud photos with mum Roberta and Dad Vince after his graduation.

Liquid sunshine - again!

2010-12-20T14:00:00.000-08:00

Another Karra picnic. More rain but the tanks are full, so who cares?

25 hardy picnickers had an enjoyable day with Olympic games high on the list of activities. After a swim, a bbq and copious quantities of food, the games began .....

The youngsters cleaned up in the three-legged race, with the not-so-youngsters Sid and Peter L winning the veterans division. Jocelyn complained bitterly that Jill's uncontrolled "giggling"ruined her chance of making a podium finish and that last was just not good enough.

The egg-throwing competition proved plenty of surprises, with Peter and Kerri winning against the more fancied opponents. Peter L won the prize for the lucky unboiled egg. Sid was in with a chance but lady luck played her hand and Peter L was victorious. And what a catch - nearly perfect!

The treasure hunt, directed and perceived by Captain Ron, proved a hit with everyone, with hunters dashing to and fro to locate the prize. Barbara C was the lucky hunter, ably assisted by her grandchildren who helped with the digging.

Overall, a wet by good day and we are now looking forward to the next Olympic challenge. I believe we will have "tender races"next, with Janette laying down a challenge to anyone game enough to have a go.

Start training - the Games are coming again - and it won't be every four years!!!

Peter Deane
Sailing Master

Christmas Party 2010

2010-12-05T20:06:00.001-08:00

What a party! A complete sell out and many members were disappointed. Carol and her merry men and maids came up trumps with a fantastic Christmas dinner, thoroughly enjoyed by all.

Ron and Val's Christmas decorations were much admired, as was the new Christmas tree, lovingly decorated by Ron.

John Cornelius, our favourite musician, returned to the Boat Club in triumph, once again providing us with wonderful singing and music throughout the night. He's an absolute legend!

And who can go past "A Midsummer Night's Scream" produced and directed by Joan Wheeler, with the Tingira Thespians in all their glory. Chris and Joan were celebrating their 45th wedding anniversary on the same night - congratulations!!!

Thanks to Pip Archdall for contributing some photos. It's always nice to get another aspect.

(By the way, did you know that if you click on the photos below, they enlarge?)

Works starts on the deck

2010-12-02T19:39:00.001-08:00

Work has finally commenced on our deck extension!

Members have been down at the Club all week, levelling, digging holes, concreting and generally getting dirty.

Don't forget - even if you don't have the skills to participate in the actual building of the deck, you can contribute towards the "Building Fund". $5.00 a metre for decking will see your name listed on a plaque of contributors which will be placed on the wall at the Clubhouse.

How many people does it take to rig a Mirror?

2010-11-29T17:21:00.000-08:00

Peter Lawson is restoring a Mirror Dinghy at his place and called on the services of fellow members to rig it.

Here's a couple of shots of the results.

2nd Vagabond Racing Series

2010-11-28T07:39:00.001-08:00

Thanks to Chris Ashton for photos of the first race day of the 2nd series. Five Vagabonds and a Corsair out on the bay with flukey wind conditions. Great fun!

Melbourne Cup Day

2010-11-18T16:29:00.001-08:00

Our first Melbourne Cup luncheon for many years saw some wonderful outfits paraded, some of which are shown below. Coral's original 1920's beaded dress has to take 1st prize, don't you think?

Carol did a fantastic job of the buffet lunch and everyone had a wonderful time. I think this could become a regular part of our Club calendar.

Our new Corsair 16'

2010-11-17T22:06:00.001-08:00

The Tingira Boat Club has recently purchased a 16'Corsair. This fibreglass dinghy is ideal for sail training as its strength and stability allow inexperienced sailors to jump in with more knowledgeable instructors. The boat is capable of taking up to six people in a training situation.

The class is also suitable for the less agile amongst us, as less physical strength and balance is required to sail these boats. We are hoping that members who found the Vagabond fleet a little too frisky will enjoy the Corsair.

Members Peter Fox and Peter Lawson collected the Corsair from the mainland, so it was only fitting that they got first "dibs" on a sail.

Last Friday night saw us raise our glasses in a toast to our new addition and a small competition was conducted by those present to name the boat. The winner was Peter Lawson who can collect his prize this Friday night. Well done, Peter!

Brian Calvert Memorial Dinner 2010

2010-10-18T18:39:00.001-07:00

Another fantastic Tingira Party, only lacking the special touch of Margaret Calvert and Barry. However, Bronnie and family were there to represent the family and it was wonderful to see the two little girls on the dance floor all night.
Clayton did a wonderful job of the auction, with donations by Peter Deane and Ted Upton.
Music yet again by John Cornelius who always does such a great job.
And we mustn't forget to mention the amazing menu supplied by Carol and her troups. Pate or pumpkin soup, roast beef with vegies and yorkshire pudding, then Barb's Apple Pie with custard and cream or Val's baked cheesecake. What a spread!
Of course, one of the reasons for the night was the presentation of the Brian Calvert Memorial Race trophy, won this year by Willem.

Brian Calvert Memorial Race 2010

2010-10-09T18:54:00.001-07:00

After a beautiful week of sunshine, we thought we were primed to have the best Brian Calvert Memorial Race for some years. With eight entries, Peter Deane did an excellent job as Sailing Master.

But the Weather Gods struck! Friday night promised doom and disaster ... strong wind warnings of 30 knot winds and rain. Still hopeful, we met on the beach at Dalpura for a final decision.

At that stage several boats pulled out ... EagleHawk, Bonnington, Senility.

Ken Dempsey's Anna sailed around the start for a while before deciding not to race. Ken declared that the wind didn't worry him but his knees and rain didn't agree with each other, so he was heading home.

That left Peter Deane and Phil in Peter's Sanctuary, John Walker and friends in Rainman, Colin and Peter Fox in Tycho Brahe and WIllem and friends in his new boat, as yet unnamed.

A few brave souls piled onto the pontoon which was the official start boat. Strong currents, waves and wind made us a little late for the starting line and caused problems with the start buoy dragging.

Perhaps we should rename the pontoon The Drowned Rat, for that was what we all looked like by the time the race was under way.

Willem, Colin and John Walker completed the course, not without mishap, for Colin's boat suffered a torn mainsail in 36 knot winds. Peter and Phil had to retire due to a bent rudder.

But better than today, when an official gale warning is out!!

The crew of "Senility", John Rekers boat.

"The Drowned Rat" aka the pontoon, and her damp crew ...

September 2010 Sailing Course

2010-09-28T13:51:00.001-07:00

The September 2010 course was the first course run by our new Sailing Master Peter Deane. He was ably assisted by past Sailing Masters Michael Stephens and Guy Hickey and other instructors - Lindsay Hackett, Peter Lawson, Peter Fox and assistants Jeremy Hackett, Robert Smith and Alene Ivey. Brian Sutton, as ever, was our main safety boat driver, with forays by Robert Smith also. Our thanks to all these volunteers for the time they give to introduce people to the skills of sailing.

Day 1

Mainly classroom introduction to dinghy sailing plus knots, with an outdoor explanation of Parts of a Dinghy. Then it was time to test everyone's swimming ability and a chance to get to know the boats better on the water ... paddling. Finally, a capsize drill in shallow water. Suddenly, nobody is afraid any more!

Day 2
We take to the water ..... the bit everyone loves best.

Day 3

More sailing - tacking and gybing around two buoys ... and then around two buoys and a mark without an instructor in the boat. Everyone did really well.

We finally came ashore just ahead of a big squall from the south. Look at those clouds!

And our safety boat made a rescue! Norm Black with Barbara Cowell's daughter and two grandsons ran out of petrol on a fishing trip and our sturdy RIB towed them safely home.

Day 4

Not a good day. Horrid weather kept us indoors most of the day and there was no sailing. Fingers crossed for tomorrow.

"Bonnington" on the hard

2010-09-21T16:21:00.000-07:00

And welcome to Horizon Shores Marina.

For our boat with a retracting keel, this was the closest slipway we could use.

Situated between Cabbage Tree and Jacobs Well, Horizon Shores is a large marina with a travelling lift facility and the opportunity to live aboard whilst work is being done on your boat.

Meridien Marinas Horizon Shores
Cabbage Tree Point Rd Woongoolba Qld 4207

Tel: (07) 5546 2300 ... Email: info@meridienmarinas.com.au

If you are just popping in for a look, there are a few courtesy moorings near the refuelling berth in front of the offices. You can spot these as you enter the Marina - more or less straight ahead.

There is a cafe near the admin block which serves excellent meals during the day. The owner tells us that it will be open for dinner during summer. Unfortunately, it was closed for most of the time we were there, due to a wrangle with the previous tenant. Best buy is the beef and guinness pie - yum!

To reach the slipway, just keep the rock wall on your port side and follow it round. There are a few courtesy berths here also, to moor whilst you wait your turn on the traveller.

Here are a few prices, for your information:

Marina prices:
Travelift In/Out for less than 30 tonne boat - $241.50
Waterblast for less than 30 ton boat - $82.80 plus $30 Environmental Levy
Hardstand for less than 30 tonne boat - $43.70 per day plus GST
Deposit on key to amenities block - $50

Note: Travel lift does not work weekends and booking times have to be strictly adhered to, otherwise you might be sitting around waiting for a while.

"Bonnington" was on the hard for anti-fouling. After she had been waterblasted, they moved us round to our spot in the yard, complete with tap and electricity. The boat was carefully propped up and didn't move one millimetre the whole time we were there - we felt perfectly secure in our eyrie.

Our antifouling was done by

Marine Team Australia.

Tel (07) 5546 1359.

Email marineteamaust@bigpond.com.

The cost of sanding the entire hull, raising the waterline at the stern, antifouling with Altex #5 Blue (two coats), sanding/preparing the running gear with International Brand Ultra Black and acid washing the hull was $1685.00. This price included a very expensive anode - $149.00 from Bukh. Ouch! I know they are called sacrificial anodes but it doesn't mean human sacrifice!

Our only complaint is that patches had to be left on the hull where the supports were placed. These were painted when we were placed on the traveller to return to the water but they were not dry enough to adhere and already one patch is bare, we notice. Not sure how you get around that problem but we will contact them and ask the question.

We also had a couple of knocks to our hull that needed attention. Joel Weymouth of Fairspray Marine Finishing did a wonderful job of fixing the damage, then buffing and polishing the hull for $600 plus tax. She looks brand new.

Fairspray Marine Finishing

Tel: 0423 777 018

And finally a stripe, just to make her go faster. Rod (and I can't find the name of his company) gave us a beautiful blue stripe for $150. Thanks, Rod. If I find out the name of your company, I will add it.

While we were on the hard, we were joined by "Earthling", a beautiful 60' catamaran in for a paint job. Apparently the specially selected colour already on it had started to craze so it was back on the hard for a more regular paint job.

This has to be one of the most beautiful boats I have ever seen. If you get a chance, hop down and have a look.

The mast was huge! When we walked to Jacobs Well and Cabbage Tree Point (for something to do at the weekend) we could see it from afar. And very raked! I'd hate to be in a bosun's chair at the top of that!

Flinders Day 2010

2010-08-30T23:01:00.001-07:00

Once again, the tides defeated our plan to invade Coochiemudlo with our Vagabond fleet on Flinders
Day.

However, we did manage to get quite a few members across in our fleet of power boats.

Thanks to new member Pip Archdall for these photos.

Commodore's Ball 2010

2010-07-11T00:01:00.001-07:00

Well, ladies and gentlemen, wasn't the 2010 Commodore's Ball a blast? I think we were all determined to show Commodore Barry and First Lady Margie a good time back at the Tingira Boat Club on their sojourn from the wilds of PNG. And speaking of which, PNG certainly seems to agree with them ... didn't they look fantastic??

Of course, everyone else scrubbed up pretty well too. There were some stunning numbers around, only to be bettered by the stunning food. Providore Annette and her team of magicians produced a veritable feast. A prawn cocktail to die for, followed by chicken and ham with roast vegies (my prize goes to that cauliflower and broccoli au gratin). Dessert, as always at the Boat Club, was designed to add inches to your waistline. No willpower on earth could have resisted those shining pavlovas, those light-as-air profiteroles, that amazing cheesecake, apple pie and trifle. Did I miss anything out? That must have been the one I had no more room to try!

People were out and about early, meeting and greeting, whilst Carol, Barry, Jocelyn and Annette were busy in the kitchen.

Birthday girl Julia had a wonderful night, even though she had to leave poor Eddie on the couch at home on Russell Island.

Music for the evening was provided by John Cornelius. Recommended by Chris McKuen, he proved to be the best entertainment we have ever had at a ball. What a terrific bloke! He sang more or less non-stop from 6.30pm till 11pm. His repertoire was endless and he even knew the meaning of "soft music during the meal". Thanks, John, you were marvellous!

Jake was our barman for the evening. The son of member Mike J, Jake works at the Bowls Club and took a night off to give us a hand. Looking very dapper and always with a smile on his face, he certainly made the night for Robert and I who could sit down with everyone else and enjoy the night. Thanks Jake. And thanks to the little lady in the kitchen from ALL the ladies at the ball. So, so nice not to have to hitch up your Versace and get stuck into the dishes.

The dancing carried on till our licence called a halt. I think everyone took a turn on the dance floor. There was rocking and jiving, chicken dances, a touch of Zorba and a bit of line dancing a la Margie. (Gosh, lucky she was there to lead us!)

Guy showed us how it was done with a masterly Last Dance with Val.

And Robert had the last laugh!

Vagabond Racing

2010-07-04T22:12:00.001-07:00

Vagabond Race Days are going from strength to strength. Last Sunday was a gorgeous day with more wind than the previous days.

We had a few crab pot problems yet again and even a thoughtless tinny owner who decided to stop and throw in a crab pot directly in the path of a sailing dinghy.

The two races were both won by Peter Deane and Arend Brandt ... time they were severely handicapped, I think!!

And I gather the team on the pontoon had a better time than the sailors.

But at sunset, where better a place to be than standing around a brazier outside the Clubhouse, drinking red wine or beer and watching that glorious scenery. We are truly lucky!

The Winch

2010-07-04T22:08:00.000-07:00

We may recall the mention of a winch in the last newsletter?

It has now been installed and is saving the backs of our members as they haul the safety boats in and out of the water.

Thanks to Doug McEwan for all his help with the earthworks.

And thanks to all the members who installed the winch.

Vagabond Racing

2010-06-21T19:48:00.001-07:00

We had our first Vagabond Racing day on Sunday 20th June 2010. All six of our fleet were out on the Bay, skippered by Peter Deane (crew Arend Brandt), Guy Hickey (crew Peter Lawson), Michael Stephens (crew Digby), Kevin Kropf (crew Mark Craig), Alene Ivey (crew Julia Harmer), Rob Napier (crew Barbara Cowell).

Brian Sutton and Doug McEwan were on the Safety Boat and Vince Le Plastrier was Time-keeper out on the pontoon, with Wendy Kropf and Jill Ashton assisting.

A wonderful support group gathered on the beach to cheer us all on.

With light winds and a glorious sunset, Peter Deane and Arend Brandt took line honours, followed by Michael Stephens and Digby. The all-girl team of Alene Ivey and Julia Harmer got a big cheer for coming in third, ahead of Guy and Peter Lawson.

With dying wind, Kevin and Mark just managed across the line but poor Rob and Barbara had the choice of a tow or a paddle in the dark. Better luck next time!

Demise of the Shade Sail and Posts

2010-06-19T01:10:00.000-07:00

Our proposed deck at the front of the clubhouse has reached the stage where we need to put up a Proposed Development sign at the front of the building and advertise in the newspaper.

Then we can continue on to Council.

In the meantime, a fresh sunny winter's day gave us the opportunity for some much needed pruning and renovating.

Our flagpole at the front of the building was being obscured, so Brian did a bit of judicious trimming. Hopefully, this will encourage our other plants to grow as they get some much-needed sunlight.

Kevin and Jim helped by removing the branches.

Meanwhile, the likely lads were climbing ladders and assisting Doug the Digger with his mighty machine at the back of the clubhouse.

The old canopy was torn and no longer opened and it was time for it to come down. Kevin, Peter and Phil climbed ladders and attempted to unscrew the rusty bolts but in the end, it was easier to just pull the canopy off.

This is where Doug came into his own ......

Phil was determined to get into the act .....

Aaah! The canopy is finally removed and gently carried over to the front of the block.

Now it's the turn of the posts!

The amount of concrete on these posts was amazing.

Phil thought this was funny!

None of it was easy and the likely lads watched on in awe as Doug manoevred his machine around the massive posts. The biggest one will be re-used for our new winch, purchased to assist in pulling up the safety boats from the beach.

Doug even managed to tidy up! What a guy! Next time you see him down at the Club, give him a huge thank you from all of us.

Not to be outdone, Guy scrubbed up the bbq plate, ready for a snagger serve-up for the hungry hordes.

And the Clubhouse looks fantastic!

Thanks to all who helped ... Robert, Peter x 2, Rob, Arend, Ron, Phil, Guy, Jim, Brian, Kevin ... and most of all, Doug the Digger.

Round the Island Canoe Race 2010

2010-04-26T00:56:00.000-07:00

Last year the Canoe Race around Macleay Island was ably run by the Lions Club but all water activity was in charge of the Tingira Boat Club. So this year, with the consent of Lions, we took on the organisation of the event, with member Neville Prosser at the helm.

We were a little late starting to organise the event this year, due to the takeover from Lions but nonetheless, with huge amounts of help from all involved, we managed to achieve an impressive event, which will only get bigger and better next year.

We were not blessed with good weather for the day but luckily canoeists and kayakers are a hardy mob and saw this no reason to cancel the race. They were going to get wet anyway, they reasoned, so why not get wet before the race started?

Quite a few of them paddled over from the mainland but found it hard going arriving at low tide and having to wade through thigh-deep mud, carrying their canoe ... we hadn't mentioned the mud!

But they were happy to be offered hot tea or coffee and take advantage of our kitchen where they could select a sausage, bacon and egg burger or a hamburger.

Soon things started to warm up ... Mark Priestley from Canoeing Queensland was on hand to help as was Digby and Ian from Wynnum Canoeing Club. Without their expertise in this area, we would not have been able to conduct the Race in such a professional manner, nor would we have attracted the calibre of contestents.

Soon it was time for briefings and the contestents stood in the pouring rain, patiently listening to Mark and Digby explaining the route around the island to them.

Mayor Melba Hobson was on hand to welcome the participants and was a great sport, even getting herself slightly bogged on the beach in the wet sand, whilst cheering on competitors.

Here she is with Commodore Barry and other sponsors. (Did I mention Redland Council was a Gold Sponsor of the event??)

A fly past just before the start ... how did that happen?

Time to get those canoes into the water ..... carry them through the mud ...

Mill around getting ready for the start .....

While race favourite Ben Allen taped up a hole in his canoe (and tried to rub Jocelyn's phone number off his arm)

Our new sign ...

Two young canoeists practicing for 2030 perhaps?

And when it was all over, back to the Clubhouse for a few beers, some much-needed food and the presentations. Congratulations to Martin Harberland who came first, John Docray who was second and Ben Allen who came third. Denise Drury was the first female, followed by Sally Clark and Chris Gissing.

Our own Gail Day and Mike Papalardo won the Fun Event whilst Norm Black won the major prize in the raffle.

Some Chinese students who entered the Fun Race and won several prizes, both in the race and the raffle. A friendly group who had a very good day.

Easter at Blakeleys

2010-04-05T19:14:00.000-07:00

Taking advantage of the fact that we don't work Thursdays, Robert and Judy, Guy and Alene set off mid-morning for Blakesleys, hoping to book a really good spot for the rest of the Tingira crew who would be coming later in the weekend.

Colin and Janette managed to shut up shop early enough to sail over too and had a bbq with us on the beach, enjoying the magnificent sunset.

We had a local visitor - a rather large goanna.

In the morning, Colin and Janette sailed down to Southport whilst we enjoyed the day. The rest of the Boat Club picnic crew turned up mid-morning in Ole's new boat and were ferried ashore. Peter Deane and Peter Fox decided it was too mundane to come across in a cruiser so opted for the Vagabond. Rather hair-raising, I imagine, for the seas were quite rough.

Unfortunately, only one other person stayed overnight - new member Julia. Unfortunately, she had to make do with Guy and Alene's apology for a tent - we forgot the tent poles!

But all too soon it was time to sail home again, saying goodbye to that lovely beach until our next picnic.

Moorings by Tingira

2010-03-30T16:32:00.001-07:00

It was quite the little community down at the Boat Club on Tuesday.

Time to make the mooring for the pontoon!!

And while they were about it, they made a mooring for Dudley and another for Stuart.

Way to go!!

Ole and Brian led a team of willing Tingira volunteers including Peter Lawson, Sid Cooper, Dudley Kavanagh and Peter Fox. New member Stewart was also there.

The Last Sailing School

2010-03-17T19:44:00.000-07:00

At the last Sailing School, Council sent over a photographer to do a photoshoot. They were aiming to shoot island personalities with a background of island activities and chose the Boat Club as a prime spot for photos.

As Guy was Sailing Master and in charge of the Sailing Course, they chose him as their "Mr Personality". Photos of Guy and, more importantly, of the Boat Club Vagabonds and students, will be used in one of the Council's Tourism booklets.

All more free publicity for the Boat Club.

Enjoy these fantastic photos!

Oysters & Jazz - just a little bit posh

2010-03-14T18:18:00.001-07:00

Sunday 31st January 2010 saw the inaugural Oysters & Jazz Festival take place at the Tingira Boat Club.

Commodore Barry Jamieson came up with the "little bit posh" concept and worked very hard to ensure this event was a success.

And it certainly was! We oversold tickets to members and their guests ... we expected to sell about 100 tickets and ended up selling 150 or more! It just goes to show that islanders - and members in particular - are crying out for good entertainment.

Barry welcomed guests and introduced the band "Just Friends" who sang and played brilliantly throughout a day somewhat marred by rain.

Oysters and bubbly were the theme and tickets included half a dozen oysters (naturel or kilpatrick) and a glass of bubbly. Chef Trevor and his band of ladies were busy in the kitchen serving up oysters and cheese plates whilst Chef John was cooking up a storm outside, providing hamburgers to hungry sailors and dancers.

Here's a few shots of members and guests enjoying the day .....

Australia Day

2010-01-26T16:38:00.001-08:00

Happy Australia Day to all Tingira Boat Club members.

Our Australia Day picnic to Blakesleys was somewhat last minute and disorganised. Unfortunately, many members had made other arrangements but we did manage to field four boats to travel over to North Stradbroke for the day.

Ole and Irene were there in their flash new cruiser, with their flash new dog Sophie. Unfortunately, my photo of the boat was too blurry to use. Does anyone have a good shot I can post?

They brought Phil and Ruth and Sid and Barb. Acted very posh and had coffee and cake on board before deigning to join us lesser beings. (But they did bring the Club bbq ... many thanks!)

Robert and Judy were there in "Gadfly" with John Rekers in tow. It definitely was not my day for photography. That's why Robert is sitting alone. I don't know what Judy was doing but it didn't look good on film, trust me! I did the right thing and cut her off the photo. I'm sure she would thank me.

Fran and Gavin Tunstall came over in their trusty tinny for their first Boat Club Australia Day picnic. (Hope you enjoyed it, folks)

Pic 1 shows our happy family, Pic 2 Doug, John and Chris, Pic 3 shows Phil, Barb and Sid.

Guy and Alene came over in "Bonnington" with a crew of five. Peter Lawson sans Eileen who was on the mainland, Doug and Chris McEwan and Jill and Chris Ashton.

After the bbq, it was time for a swim. Then a swift sail home, with Jill enjoying a coffee whilst Dougie acted as figurehead.

Is that a cushion under your sari?

2009-12-20T18:56:00.001-08:00

The Christmas Party was held on 19th December at the Clubhouse with a lucky 66 members booking a seat for the night.

Apologies to members who were too late to make a booking. Make sure you book early next year!!

Providore Barry and his able assistants Chef John and the Christmas Belles outdid themselves, starting with oysters au naturel or kilpatrick or a fruit compote for those who don't enjoy those tasty little bivalves.

Here are a few shots of the guests ...

Joan Wheeler produced the Nativity Play with Margaret as Mary (famous as Britney Spears), Chris Wheeler as Joseph and Barry W as the baby. Jill was a star and Kerri, Coral and Ruth were the three wise women because the three wise men were watching the cricket.

Peter Deane was the Angel Gabriel purely because he could blow the bugle, whilst Val made a delectable Evil Angel. Sid was the donkey (no comment) whilst Commodore Camel got a standing ovation.

Brian Sutton made a surprise appearance as Santa Claus. Not sure why he was in a Nativity Play but he did bring presents, which probably explains it.

The night finished with dancing to Scott, a new musician we were trying out for the night. What did you think of him, members? Remember to give feedback ...

Back in the good old days .....

2009-11-19T17:15:00.000-08:00

Courtesy of George and Inga Vermassen, I've put up some photos of the Club many years ago when our current Clubhouse was being built.

These are photos taken at one of the original Octoberfests.

First of all, we had a tin shed.

It didn't seem to stop George doing what he does so well ... working behind the bar, serving drinks.

Then the brick clubhouse which we occupy today came into being. It took a great deal of effort and voluntary work to make this clubhouse what it is today.

We are very grateful to the original members for the hard work they put in.

There seemed to be a lot of dancing, eating and drinking, much like today.

But I don't see any current members emulating Kurt in his dirnl!!!

JOHN & CORAL'S OCTOBERFEST 2009

2009-10-31T22:15:00.001-07:00

It's been two years since John and Coral organised their last Octoberfest at the Club and we had all heard big things about how good the last one was.

So we were expecting a lot .... and believe me, we were not disappointed!

Sid and John and others had been up at the Club for two days putting up the decorations which were all very Germanic in red black and yellow.

We were greeted at the door by a buxon blonde German fraulein who offered us a glass of gluwein to start the evening off in the right spirit.

Ken seemed particularly enamoured of her .... and no wonder!

A very dashing Herren Gerry and bewitching Fraulein Coral compered the event with music organised by Gustaf (alias Guy) fresh from his hospital bed.

Robert and Judy had been to the mainland and laid in stocks of German beer for the night which proved very popular. So much so that we might stock Heineken from now on.

And in the kitchen Herren Johann was being ably assisted by Frau Marlene and the Herr Providor.

Guests of honour were Life Member George Vermassen and his wife Inge who were welcomed to the Club by Vice Commodore Ole.

There were over sixty members and their guests enjoying the night's frivolity ...

In between courses, there was time for a few German dances ... the hat dance and, of course, everyone's favourite, the Chicken Dance .... How many versions did Guy managed to produce by the end of the night? Did you hear the Marching Chicken Dance??

The Commodore found a delightful fraulein to keep him company .... Fraulein Margarethe, I believe, all the way from Germany to sell tickets in our Christmas raffle.

And the inevitable sculling competition .......

(Why weren''t the ladies invited to join in? Oh, yes, we're ladies!!)

George & Inge even had time for a polka or two ... too nimble on their feet for my camera, I'm afraid, so the shot is somewhat blurry.

And last but not least, the men with the biggest steins ....

Sid, I can see you hiding behind that monster stein! But did you really drink all that beer?

Guy and his mate worked out it took 3 Heinekins per stein. Which probably explains why they walked home.

Great night, everyone. Roll on next year!!

Tingira Family Fun Day 2009

2009-10-28T22:05:00.001-07:00

What a wonderful day! Not quite as many children as last year but more boats, more water and more wind.

We were up at Dalpura bright and early to get our tents erected (courtesy of the Lions Club) and to organise ourselves before the children arrived at 10am.

A happy bunch of pirates assembled to have their mug shots taken before the melee. Ron was even ready to walk the plank!

Back at the Boat Club, the Vagabonds had to be dragged out over the mud. But our sturdy instructors were up to the task and manfully struggled until they had five Vagabonds and a catamaran out in the bay.

Someone seemed to be having a bit of a slack time. Could that be our dashing Vice Commodore just returned from a cruise up north?

Shame, Ole!!

But soon all the Vagabonds were under sail and our safety boats were heading towards Dalpura also.

By now the tide was well in and our fleet came ashore ready for the day's events.

The registration tents were ready and waiting for the crowd to arrive.
Our illustrious Commodore strode the beach in his convict garb. (I think we will have to report him to the RSPCA for pinning that poor parrot to his shirt.)

A quick conference on the beach and we were ready to go!!

Here they come ........ soon it was all go ......

Sailing on the Vagabonds .....

Waiting their turn for the manta ray .....

Skimming the waves on Ted Upton's outrigger .....

kayaking .....

.... and sailing in the cat with Paddy .....

JUST HAVING A BALL!!

BRIAN CALVERT MEMORIAL DINNER

2009-10-19T04:03:00.001-07:00

17th October 2009 saw us all dressed up in our glad rags, turning up to the Boat Club for the Brian Calvert Memorial Dinner.

Last year's move to have the dinner on a different day to the Race proved very successful and so we continued the same theme this year.

As ever, our resourceful Providore, Barry, came up with a wonderful menu. He modestly claims his success lies in his choice of assistants ... in this case Jocelyn, Coral and Barbara. It was a fantastic spread and we all ate far too much ... as usual.

Matt the Piano Man did his best to make us shake off those extra kilos. (Even if he did almost deafen us in the process!)

With over 60 people present, there was little room for dancing but somehow nearly everyone managed to find a spot on the floor.

The Commodore was in fine fettle and brought along a professional auctioneer to auction off the wonderful prizes. There was spirited bidding on the keyring, designed by Peter Deane and on the lady's pendant, also designed by Peter. Bottles of Commodore's Courage were items that caught our attention also.

The presentation of the Brian Calvert trophy took place after Guy announced the handicap winner of the Brian Calvert Race .... Ted Galloway's Ayesha with his crew of Mal and Guy le Plastrier.

Well done Ted.

Chris couldn't resist trying out his raffle prize of men's cosmetics ...

Brian Calvert Memorial Trophy Race 10th October 2009

2009-10-10T20:28:00.000-07:00

Even those of us who did not know Brian Calvert personally find something of his spirit still lingering at the Tingira Boat Club.

Everyone tells us what a wonderful man he was and what a great friend.

Every year we take to our sail boats to race in the Brian Calvert Memorial Trophy, a race in commemoration of a wonderful man and an ex Commodore of the Club

This year our Race Coordinator was Brian Sutton in his trusty Whimaway.

Brian and Robert had the unenviable task of setting the buoy for the second mark far over towards Stradbroke in very lumpy seas and a growing swell. It looks very sunny and calm out there but believe me, it wasn't ... and it was going to get worse, much worse!!

This year we had few entries ... many Club members were away, either overseas or interstate and we just don't seem to be able to attract entries from the mainland, no matter how hard we try. Our Sailing Master Guy Hickey had contacted every Club in Moreton Bay, to no avail.

Most of us gathered at anchor off Dalpura to collect crew and to have that last minute coffee or tea before starting our engines and heading out towards the start line.

We motored/sailed Bonnington up the passage between Macleay and Garden Island with Peter Lawson and then collected Peter Deane from the mainland at Dalpura.

It seemed most people were doing the same thing and dinghies were busy going to and from the beach.

Ruth's son Vince joined us on Bonnington for his first experience of sailing and pronounced it a wonderful experience.

To our port was Cheetah, a 36' catamaran owned and skippered by Bob Sampson. He and Phil had been up since dawn trying to get a new halyard on the mainsail.

Judy always claims that this is the party boat and it certainly seemed to win on that score.

They had a large number of club members on board ready to set sail.

Colin on Tycho Brahe was assisted by Chris Wheeler as crew. He rowed over to see us for a chat before heading to the beach to pick up Chris.

I've often wondered .... does he use oars because his name is Rowe?

We spotted the tiny Anna heading past Dalpura, ably skippered by Ken Dempsey, a past winner.

Ken was having none of this woosy anchoring ... he steamed up past the start boat and had a quick practice sail before the race started.

But soon we were all dropping our moorings and hoisting our sails, making ready for the starting line.

As we sailed out from Dalpura, we had Ted Galloway on Ayesha to starboard, with one of his mates and Club member Guy Le Plastrier on board.

We all sailed around for the ten minutes or so before the race started, watching for the 5 minute red flag, the two minute second red flag and the dropping of both to signify the race start.

For the first time, our newly completed Pontoon was available as the Start Boat.

Commodore Barry Jamieson and Margaret Calvert were on board, with Robert and Judy Smith.

As we passed the start line, they raised a lusty cheer and yes, we heard the bugle blow!

Ken Dempsey showed his vast experience by stealing the start from Ted Galloway.

Tycho Brahe crossed the line third , closely followed by Bonnington skippered by Sailing Master Guy Hickey with Peter Deane, Peter Lawson and Alene Ivey as crew.

Not forgetting an enthralled Vince on board!!! I think we have a sailing convert!!

Party boat Cheetah brought up the rear.

On the first leg, the two smallest boats led by a wide margin, whilst Bonnington managed to round the first mark slightly ahead of Tycho Brahe.

On the second leg, it seemed that Cheetah was catching Tycho Brahe whilst Bonnington made for the second mark in very heavy seas. Anna and Ayesha went slightly too far north which enabled Bonnington to catch up slightly.

The second mark, an orange buoy, was almost impossible to detect. In fact, I hear that Ayesha didn't actually see it but they had rounded it. Bonnington saw the buoy as they sailed south ... they could have cut 50 metres off their route had they spotted it earlier.

Around this stage, things were getting very heavy out in the bay. On Bonnington, we could see Ayesha steaming for home and Ken's Anna following us round the mark but Tycho Brahe was still over at Peel and we could see no sign of Cheetah's sails.

We finally spotted Cheetah limping for home on engines and advised the Race Coordinator. Then Judy's voice came over the radio advising that they had rudder problems and had retired and were cutting across the course to return home.

Finally, we all sailed (or limped) over the line and another race had been won ... and lost.

Congratulations to Ted and his crew on Ayesha for taking Line Honours.

The winner of the Race on handicap will be announced at the Brian Calvert Memorial Dinner next Saturday 17th October.

I think a special mention has to be made of Ken Dempsey in Anna. Sailing single handed in heavy seas such as we experienced shows what a mighty sailor he is. And not young either .... I believe he is well into his seventies.

Launch of the Pontoon

2009-10-05T18:26:00.000-07:00

Sunday 4th October 2009 was the date selected to relaunch the pontoon after it's stay on the hard.

Newly renovated and with heaps of work done on it, the pontoon once again made its way pondorously back into the calm waters of Moreton Bay.

It's been a long time coming, with a few hiccups in the middle due to changes of Committee, etc. but we now have our floating start boat, our Vagabond tie-up, our swimmers raft ... so many things in one big aluminium hulk.

There are an enormous number of members who have been involved in this project but I'm sure you will all agree that without the tireless efforts of Brian Sutton, the "Tingira" would still be languishing on the hard. Brian, you're an absolute legend! Since you took over the reins as Facilities Coordinator, we have all been amazed at the amount of work you do. (Seriously, do you sleep at the Clubhouse?)

The troops muster. "Now we have to get this thing from here into the water ....."

It was already sitting on logs ready to roll, so all they needed was a good strong push.

Ruffy brought Willem down with his Pajero to act as a battering ram to pontoon push and there were a host of willing advisors and dogsbodies to assist. (Woops! Sorry, Ruffy ... I meant people!)

Sid and Robert hold a plank whilst Willem uses his bull bar to nudge the pontoon towards the bay.

Why, don't we put a log under this end to keep it from digging into the ground? Sid and Guy confer whilst Robert and Paddy jump up and down on the other side. It's a new version of walking the plank, I believe.

Then Sid races round the other side to help Robert lift that side up.

As the pontoon started to slip towards the water, Paddy got a bit nervous and grasped a nearby lifejacket and a float. (Shame about all that chain on the end of the float, Paddy ... I think you might be sinking rather than floating)

Yes, we've made it. One final shove and she's off ... floating.

Brian at the helm, they trundle out to a temporary anchorage near the shore.

The pontoon will be moored in deeper water off the Boat Club within the next few days.

I couldn't help but notice one lone Vagabond sailor had carefully kept out of the way during all the hard work.

Once the pontoon was safely at anchor, who is this sneaking back to shore?

It was a fantastic Sunday generally. The weather was perfect for Vagabond sailing, with stiff breezes early in the morning, flattening out to a mirrorlike calm when the launch took place.

New member Arend was out on his sailboard. I think that might be the next excitement down at the Club. I noticed Peter Deane was giving Beth, Chris & Jill's granddaughter, some instruction on the board also.

Thanks to all who attended.

Sail School September 2009

2009-09-26T19:53:00.000-07:00

Wow! This must have been the best sailing school ever at the Tingira Boat Club!! After seeing all the fun to be had in Vagabonds on Sunday Sailing days, quite a few of our long-standing members decided to join in the fun.

As Margaret put it "I'm not going to sit there like a frog on a log. I want to be out there too."

So who signed up? Margaret, of course, closely followed by Jill and Kerri and Billie. Sid was the first man to confirm and Jill bulldozed Chris into it. (Secretly, I think he wanted to all along ....) Then Judy Sampson, fresh back from NZ, added her name to the list.

Our stalwart instructors for the course were Michael, Lindsay, Peter D and Peter L, Bob, Colin and our Fearless Leader Guy. We were also ably assisted by Guy Le Plastrier who helped when instructor numbers were depleted. And many thanks to Robert and Brian in the safety boat.

The first day was a beauty. Shame we had to waste a fair bit of it in the classroom. But we managed to get the swim in and the basic capsize without sails in shallow water.

The weather in the rest of the week wasn't so kind to us, with that mammoth dust storm and high winds causing swells up to one metre in the bay. Not the best for novices!!

THROWING A ROPE

Need a tow?

Then you need to learn how to toss a rope across to the safety boat crew.

And here are Chris and Billie doing a splendid job of it.

Margaret is coming to grips with the technicalities whilst Sid is striding up for his turn at the lassoo.

And you need to know your knots. The rolling hitch is a really hard one to master, particular when you are rolling about on a sail boat. This is the one that is used when you are about to get a tow.

Michael gives Jill some one on one instruction whilst Judy, Margaret and Sid sort it out for themselves.

TACKING AND GYBING ON THE SIMULATOR

Tacking and gybing skills can be practiced on land by placing the Vagabond on the simulator. This allows the boat to move around as though it was in the water. The instructor can simply stand beside the boat and explain how it works ... without getting wet.

Above: Judy and Jill get put through their paces and Sid and Billy take their turn at the tiller.

Now it's Chris's turn ...

Followed by Kerri ....

GETTING READY TO GO OUT
First rig your boat and then take to the water. The brave sailors rig their boats before heading off into the bay.

AND THAT STORM ....
Salamander can barely be seen on the left and Chris and Jill's boat is hazy in the distance.

Not so hazy but those waves are pretty choppy.

Those waves are pretty high too. I just wish I could photograph the gusts of wind. Another photo of Chris and Jill's boat out in the storm.

But it cleared eventually and everyone went out sailing.It was a great week. Well done everybody! Now we expect to see you all out there on Sundays, enjoying the Vagabond Sail Days with the rest of us.

Alpha Bravo Charlie calling Xray Yankee Zulu

2009-09-20T19:56:00.001-07:00

Just a couple of pics from Brian Sutton who attended the VHF Radio Course held at the Boat Club on 19th September.

Did you know that all owners of VHF radios on their boats now have to have a licence? Or that water police are checking up on you?

I hope you were one of the people who did the course!

Not paddling your own canoe

2009-09-13T16:24:00.000-07:00

Wow! Sundays are fast becoming THE day down at Tingira!! Yesterday was pumping, so to speak!!

We started the day around lunch-time with a pre-sailing meal of bubble and squeak and toasted ham sandwiches. This was leftovers of the fantastic baked ham dinner that Peter and Kerri Deane cooked on Friday night. And it was just as good second time around!

Then it was time to start rigging up boats, as the tide came in.

Our new member Ted Upton has had his outrigger down at the Club for the past few weekends and this has brought in a great many non-members eager to try their hand at paddling a long canoe/dragon boat/outrigger.( I'm not sure of exactly the specification of Ted's boat but it requires six people to paddle, one of which must be proficient at shouting

"HO" at appropriate moments, at which time the paddlers switch blades to the other side.)

Yesterday we had seventeen children at the Club. 17!! That was fantastic!! Most of them too young for sailing lessons but all of them eager to get out on the water in a sailing boat. Mike Stephens brought up "Debbie Jane" and took out four at a time. Don Carmichael had "Hot Canary" on the water, also filled with eager sailors, whilst the rest of us used all the Vagabonds to take out a great many adult members and guests.

Our Sailing Master was delighted to welcome his daughter Monica and let her try her hand at the tiller. Monica herself was less than delighted when Peter Deane guessed her age at 17. (She's 26). Just wait, Monica! When you get to our age, ten years off your age is a HUGE compliment!!

Jill Ashton and Annette Sutton had sneak previews of sailing before they start their sailing course on 21st September. Talking of which, so many members have signed up for this course!!! Apart from Jill and Annette, Kerri Deane, Marg Calvert, Billie Cavanagh, Chris Ashton and Sid Cooper are all starters. Woohoo! I can see a ladies race coming up in the not too distant future!! (Sorry, Chris and Sid, I wasn't including you two in that comment!!)

It was too good a day to stop when night started to fall. Some of us diehards finished off the day with fish and chips at Chris & Jill's place, after watching yet another fantastic sunset from the Tingira Boat Club. How lucky are we???

Coffee at Coochie

2009-08-29T20:17:00.000-07:00

Our intrepid Sailing Master decided that Sunday Vagabond Sailing was not enough for the merry crew at Tingira Boat Club so on Wednesday 26th August he decreed an extra sailing day.

Turning up at the club at noon, the tide was perfect.

Three boats went out initially ... Guy and Alene, Peter Lawson and Brian Sutton and our adventurous Treasurer decided to go it solo.

It was a wonderful day for a sail with light to moderate winds but a bit lumpy out in the bay. Guy and Alene surprised a dugong which surfaced directly in front of their bow. Luckily, Guy managed to dodge to one side and it swam alongside the boat. It was quite a large one ... nearly the same length as the boat itself.

We sailed out into the bay to check on Mick J's boat Sapphire which had gone a-wandering during the night. He had temporarily anchored her off a sandbar halfway to Coochie and all seemed to be well.

Having got that far, we decided to sail the rest of the way and found ourselves standing on the sandy beach near the jetty. Then we espied another Vagabond making its way towards Coochie. It was Colin and Michael, who had turned up a few minutes after we departed and decided to follow us across.

Standing on the beach, we decided this should become a regular event. Not necessarily on a Wednesday, just any day when the tide was suitable. And whilst I christened it Coffee at Coochie, Colin thinks Champers at Coochie or just plain XXXX at Coochie is a better name. What do you think?

PS While I think about it, here's a couple of pix of new additions to the Tingira Fleet. The hobi-cat donated by Gerry Fullerton for Club use and an outrigger which is currently being left at the Club so that members can take advantage of learning to paddle it. C'mon guys, give it a try!!

Big Day at the Boat Club

2009-08-14T18:03:00.001-07:00

Sunday 9th August was an absolute screamer down at the Club. People came out of the woodwork, both members and potential members.
It was a glorious, sunny day. Hard to believe it's still winter. But that's Queensland ... beautiful one day, perfect the next. And that's our island!
We had all six Vagabonds out, with an instructor in each boat. Guy, Colin, Young Guy (aka Guy The Plasterer) and Bob all gave of their time to improve our sailing techniques.
The kayaks were put to good use by the many children and adults who were waiting a chance to sail on the Vagabonds.

And Paddy took out Gerry's cat for the first time. We really have to give a huge vote of thanks to Gerry Fullerton for donating the use of his hobi-cat. Now based at the Club, it's perfect for those of us who are not quite as nimble and find the Vagabonds a trifle difficult to move around in. Come down and try it!
Not to be outdone, Don sailed round from his beach with his own hobi-cat and the two catamarans took a great many people out sailing.

The day finished around lunch-time with our usual BBQ. We sat around in the shade, enjoying a lovely meal. Music wafted out of the open bar and we drank a toast to Ole and Irene, sailing up north in Nepenthe.
It's a hard life but members of the Tingira Boat Club are up to the challenge. Come and join us next sailing Sunday!!

Flinders Day on Coochie

2009-07-19T22:34:00.001-07:00

A bunch of us went over to Coochie for the annual Flinders Day celebrations. Peter and Eileen Lawson took daughter Justine over in their boat.

Brian and Annette Sutton were there on Whimaway.

Robert and Judy Smith kindly took Alene and Guy along in Gadfly. We were all very impressed by the sandy beaches on Coochie.

Next time, everyone is required to bring back a bucket each so we can start our own beach here.

We were very impressed by the markets and found some top spots to eat also. Judy and I are both hoping we won the raffle which had a table and chairs, lots of alcohol (yay!) and a couple of wine bottle holders shaped like gekkos. Brilliant!!!

I got sucked into trying out Dragon Boat racing. Nobody told me I would have to paddle over 2km. That is seriously hard work!!

Colin and Bob sailed over on Tycho Brahe. They disappeared to the bar at the resort and came back to tell us it was all very fine.

Next year, how about we sail over en masse in the Vagabonds?