COASTGUARD WHANGAMATA CALLOUTS

NOVEMBER 2018. All assisted vessels and persons on board returned safely to port.

21 Nov. During a CRV Training session a call was made to assist Whangamata Surf Club IRB’s in the recovery of 3 abandoned kayaks at Whenuakura - Donut Island. CRV GJ Gardner Rescue duly returned to Base with the kayaks aboard.

Total Coastguard man-hours 7 hrs.

23 Nov. 9m Yacht. Motor problem. 1 POB. Near Whangamata harbour entrance. CRV GJ Gardner Rescue responded and tow assisted the vessel to a mooring.

Total Coastguard man-hours 8 hrs.

23 Nov. 8m Launch. Motor starting problem. 4 P.O.B. Near Slipper Island. CRV GJ Gardner Rescue responded and tow assisted the vessel to a marina berth.

Total Coastguard man hours 14 hrs.

On 2nd November 2018 Whangamata Volunteer Coastguard Radio Operations went live onto the new national, internet based Radio Communications Logging System. This new system allows operators nationwide to log and view trip reports from any location in NZ. Being internet based the new program is ideal for our home bases and Duty Officers who can log in from anywhere. The new program has an independent training module based on the live system which has made it very easy to teach and practice in real time with real boats and situations. The system also integrates into the new Coastguard Trip Logging APP available to all boaties via their Smartphones, IPAD's and Tablets. For more information on the APP go to: https://www.coastguard.nz/news-media/new-app-keeping-boaties-safe-on-the-water/ or your APP Store on your Smartphone.

A little bit of a learning curve but all of our regular operators are now trained on the new system and most have picked up the new technology very easily and are enjoying the versatility of the new program.

Many thanks to Don Worth for his extra effort in ensuring our operators are up to speed.

Barry King

Tutor/Coastguard Instructor/Safe Boating Advisor

13 Sept. Launch 10m. No electrics. 2 P.O.B. Near Mayor Island. The Skipper alerted CGNZ Auckland by phone. Coastguard Whangamata responded to the call for assistance from CGNZ. CRV GJ Gardner Rescue met with the target vessel, assisted with battery jump start and both returned to port.

Total Coastguard man hours 24 hrs.

15 Sept. Launch. 12m. Engine failure. 5 P.O.B. Slipper Island. CRV GJ Gardner Rescue responded and tow assisted the vessel to a Whangamata Marina berth.

Total Coastguard man hours 28 hrs.

23 Sept. Power boat. 6m. Engine failure. 2 P.O.B. Near Terakihi Point. CRV GJ Gardner Rescue responded and tow assisted the vessel to the Whangamata launching ramp.

Total Coastguard man hours 16 hrs.

29 Sept. Power boat. 9m. Engine failure. 2 P.O.B. Near Clark Island. A call for assistance was received. CRV GJ Gardner Rescue Crew were placed on standby but were later stood down when the vessel was able to be mobilised and return to port.

Total Coastguard man hours 5 hrs.

Sadly, today, Wednesday 5th September 2018 we bid farewell to our faithful rescue vessel for the past 18 years, G J Gardner Ranger. Ranger is off to Auckland to begin a new career with Northern Region Coastguard. She has served us well and it was with some nostalgia that we witnessed her departure.

Our best wishes go to those from Northern Region Coastguard who may have the opportunity to crew her.

AUGUST 2018. All assisted vessels and persons on board returned safely to port.

25 Aug 18. Coastguard Eastern Region contacted the Whangamata CG Duty Officer of a 4m power-boat with 4 POB and 1 dog near the Caves requiring assistance. A nearby Vessel of Opportunity ( VOoP ) upon hearing the initial call for assistance contacted Coastguard Whangamata and advised that they being of sufficient size and experience would assist the target vessel. The VoOP tow assisted the vessel to the Tairua boat ramp. . A special thankyou to WEIGHT & SEE the VoOP for their assistance. Total Coastguard man-hours 2hrs.

Barry King - Land based volunteer of the year

Greg Burmester - Wet crew volunteer of the year

Geneva Lowe - Crew trainee of the year

John Chadwick - Unit volunteer of the year

Many congratulations and thank you for your time and commitment to Coastguard Whangamata

Our new boat made her maiden voyage from Tauranga to Whangamata via Mayor Island and the Aldermans yesterday, in perfect conditions and performing well. Big smiles on the the Skippers faces and a welcoming group of volunteers on the Wharf as she came in.

COASTGUARD WHANGAMATA CALLOUTS

APRIL 2018. All assisted vessels and persons on board returned safely to port.

05 Apr. Inflatable 2.8m. Engine failure. 3 P.O.B. 2nm E of Clark Island. The skipper phoned Coastguard Whangamata of his situation and need of assistance. A Vessel of Opportunity (VoOP) contacted Coastguard Whangamata and advised that they being of sufficient size and experience would assist the target vessel. The VoOP tow assisted the vessel to the Whangamata boat ramp. The CRV Gardner Ranger Crew were stood down.

A special thankyou to DARK LADY the VoOP for their assistance.

The target vessel was found to have no anchor, life-jackets for only 2 of the 3 persons on board, no VHF radio, no flares or other basic safety equipment. The Coastguard Duty Officer advised them of the seriousness and possible life threatening risk that they had taken and in future to carry basic safety equipment and also to advise Coastguard of their trip report details.

Total Coastguard man hours 2 hrs.

23 Apr. Power-boat 7m. Engine failure. 1 P.O.B. 6nm ENE Whangamata.

GJ Gardner Ranger tow assisted the target vessel back to the Whangamata boat ramp.

Total Coastguard man hours 14 hrs.

24 Apr. Launch 10.5m. Starter motor failure. 4 P.O.B. Boat Harbour.

GJ Gardner Ranger tow assisted the target vessel back to the Whangamata Marina.

Total Coastguard man hours 37 hrs.

It floats, it moves, it works. Still a few issues to be completed and final sign off on motor set up. Trailering and launching on the three axled trailer working well. Delivery back to Whangamata probably a week off yet.

Here's a photo from yesterday's ANZAC commemorations, of 4 of the 5 (Keith Muir missing) ex NZ Navy personnel who are all Radio Operators and members of the WVCG. All keen to be putting something back into our community. From left; Leigh Staples, Noel (Skin) Kinninmont, Barry King and Rod Berry.

MARCH 2018. All assisted vessels and persons on board returned safely to port.

05 Mar. Launch 10m. Engine failure. 2 P.O.B. 1nm E Whangamata. CRV GJ Gardner Ranger tow assisted to Whangamata mooring.

Total Coastguard man hours 13hrs.

09 Mar. Power-boat 5.8m. Anchor rope entangled with propeller. 1 P.O.B.

Off Onemana N end. CRV GJ Gardner Ranger assisted with the removal of the anchor warp and then escorted the underway vessel back to the Whangamata boat ramp.

Total Coastguard man hours 9hrs.

10 Mar. Power-boat 7.2m. Mechanical failure. 3 P.O.B. 1nm E of Onemana. CRV GJ Gardner Ranger tow assisted to the Whangamata boat ramp.

Total Coastguard man hours 28hrs.

15 Mar. Power-boat 5.4m. Flat battery. 2 P.O.B. 4nm E of Whangamata. CRV GJ Gardner Ranger assisted with battery jump start and then escorted the underway vessel back to the Whangamata boat ramp.

Total Coastguard man-hours 10hrs.

17 Mar. Coastguard Eastern Region contacted the Whangamata CG Duty Officer to activate CRV GJ Gardner Ranger to standby and assist the CRV Pauanui in the rescue of 2 spearfishermen stranded on rocks south of Pauanui beach. Due to rough sea conditions preventing a boat rescue the 2 persons were winched to safety by the Whitianga Westpac Rescue helicopter.

Total Coastguard man-hours 8hrs.

30 Mar. Coastguard Eastern Region contacted the Whangamata CG Duty Officer to activate CRV GJ Gardner Ranger to search for a reputed missing kayaker off Opoutere beach. CRV GJ Gardner Ranger shortly afterwards was stood down as the target was revealed as being a timber log which had been mistaken for an upturned kayak.

Total Coastguard man-hours 1hr.

30 Mar. Power-boat 4.5m. Submerged at a beach N of Whiritoa. 4 people and 2 dogs safe on beach. RCCNZ after receiving a PanPan call on ch16 contacted the Whangamata CG Duty Officer to activate CRV GJ Gardner Ranger and assist. GJ Gardner Ranger refloated the vessel and along with assistance from 2 Whangamata SLS IRB’s all persons and dogs were transferred to safety. GJ Gardner Ranger then escorted the vessel back to the Whangamata boat ramp.

Total Coastguard man-hours 11hrs

31 Mar. Launch 10.7m. Steering hydraulics lost. 15 P.O.B. Near Clark Island CRV GJ Gardner Ranger tow assisted to the Whangamata Marina.

Total Coastguard man hours 16hrs.

Our new boat is nearing completion and more photo's are available in Gallery - New Boat.

Certificates were recently awarded to the following on completion of their Coastguard Boating Education Day Skipper course.

Congratulations to

Lindy Johnson – Crew Lisa Julian – Crew Don Worth – Radio Communications

Welcome aboard

Beautiful evening to take a launch off the pole moorings and manoeuvre it up channel into the marina and back out again.

G J Gardner Ranger on her way to assist a vessel this afternoon

JANUARY 2018. All assisted vessels and persons on board returned safely to port.

02 Jan. Launch 12m. Mechanical failure. 3 P.O.B. South of Slipper Island. CRV GJ Gardner Ranger tow assisted to Whangamata Marina berth.

Total Coastguard man hours 16hrs.

08 Jan. Launch 10m. Mechanical failure. 2 P.O.B. 5nm ESE of Whangamata Entrance. CRV GJ Gardner Ranger tow assisted to Whangamata Marina berth.

Total Coastguard man hours 16hrs.

09 Jan. Power-boat 6m. Mechanical failure. 8nm NNE of Aldermans.

The skipper contacted Coastguard Whangamata of his situation and need of assistance. A Vessel of Opportunity (VoOP) nearby responded to the radio transmissions and advised that they being of sufficient size and experience offered to assist the target vessel. This was approved and the VoOP located and tow assisted the vessel to the Whangamata boat ramp. A special thankyou to CAROL ANN the VoOP for their assistance.

Total Coastguard man hours 2hrs.

10 Jan. Launch 10m. 2 POB. Engine problem. Home Bay, Slipper Is. The Coastguard Whangamata Duty Officer received a phone call for possible assistance. The Launch owner then contacted a diesel mechanic who resolved the problem. The Launch was then able to continue to its next destination.

Coastguard man-hours 1 hr.

All assisted vessels and persons on board returned safely to port.

06 Dec. Police tasking of CRV GJ Gardner Ranger to attend the scene of an overseas visitor in difficulty near the Otahu Estuary. En route CRV GJ Gardner Ranger and other responders were stood down with the news the swimmer had been assisted ashore.

Total Coastguard man-hours 4 hrs

10 Dec. Yacht 13.7m. Engine starter motor failure. 2 POB. Under sail from Fiji and off Onemana. Requested assistance to clear the Whangamata entrance. CRV GJ Gardner Ranger responded and met the yacht outside the entrance, rafted up alongside and delivered the yacht to a marina berth.

Total Coastguard man-hours 11 hrs

13 Dec. Coastguard Whangamata Duty Officer advised of 2 persons in a kayak at Donut Island unable to return safely due to inclement weather. CG Duty Officer contacted the Whangamata Surf Club who launched an IRB and assisted the kayakers safely back to shore.

Total Coastguard man-hours 1 hr.

16 Dec. Powerboat 5m. 2 POB. Fuel problem. Near Donut Island. The Coastguard Whangamata Duty Officer received a phone call for assistance. A Coastguard Whangamata member with mechanical expertise talked through and resolved the problem with the skipper. The power-boat was then able to return under own power to Whangamata harbour.

Total Coastguard man-hours 1 hr.

16 Dec. Yacht 9m. 3 POB. Engine failure. In transit from Tauranga to Whitianga. Due to the late afternoon time the skipper requested assistance to clear the Whangamata entrance and to the Visitors mooring. CRV GJ Gardner Rescue responded, met the yacht off Mataora Bay and tow assisted the yacht to the Visitors mooring.

Total Coastguard man-hours 20 hrs.

27 Dec. Coastguard Whangamata, NZ Police, Fire Service and St John Ambulance services were advised of a vessel on fire at the Whangamata wharf. All services were stood down when nothing found.

Total Coastguard man-hours 2 hrs.

28 Dec. Yacht 12m. 3 POB. Engine failure. Requested assistance to clear the Whangamata entrance. CRV GJ Gardner Ranger responded and met the yacht outside the entrance, rafted up alongside and delivered the yacht to the Whangamata wharf.

Total Coastguard man-hours 12 hrs.

29 Dec. Paddle boarder in difficulty. Clark Island Sth end. The Coastguard Whangamata Duty Officer received a call from Coastguard Eastern Region headquarters after advice from Police. Coastguard Whangamata Duty Officer contacted Whangamata Surf Club who launched an IRB and successfully located and assisted the paddle boarder safely ashore.

Total Coastguard man-hours 1 hr.

29 Dec. Powerboat 6.4m. 2 POB. Anchor stuck and unretrievable. Near Onemana. Requested assistance but after discussion with the Coastguard Whangamata Duty Officer the situation was resolved.

Total Coastguard man-hours 1 hr.

29 Dec. Yacht 8m. 3 POB. Engine failure. 4nm N of Whangamata. Requested assistance to clear the Whangamata entrance. CRV GJ Gardner Ranger responded and met the yacht outside the entrance, rafted up alongside and delivered the yacht to a harbour mooring.

Total Coastguard man-hours 11 hrs.

30 Dec. Powerboat 4m. 3 POB. Engine failure. Near Terakihi Point. The skipper contacted Coastguard Whangamata of his situation and need of assistance. A Vessel of Opportunity (VoOP) nearby returning to harbour responded to the radio transmissions and advised that they being of sufficient size and experience offered to assist the target vessel. This was approved and the VoOP located and tow assisted the vessel to the Whangamata boat ramp. A special thankyou to OBAN the VoOP for their assistance.

Total Coastguard man-hours 1 hr.

30 Dec. Powerboat 6.5m. 3 POB. Fuel problem. Near Terakihih Point. CRV GJ Gardner Ranger responded and tow assisted the vessel to the Whangamata boat ramp.

Total Coastguard man-hours 17 hrs.

30 Dec. Yacht 7m. 2 POB. Engine failure. At Whangamata boat ramp jetty. Requested assistance to marina berth. CRV GJ Gardner Ranger responded and tow assisted the vessel to a marina berth.

Total Coastguard man-hours 6 hrs.

Another 8 volunteers from the Whangamata Volunteer Coastguard achieved full "Operational" status on Saturday 2nd December 2017 when they were assessed by a Eastern Region Regional Instructor. Congratulations to Simon Brickwood, Gareth Coslett, Fraser Dockery, John Flinn, Nina Hawkins, Dave Kirby, Geneva Lowe and Steve Porter. A year of hard work including classroom and on water training has achieved this great result. This means our local unit has 18 fully operational volunteer wet crew ready for the summer season. Keep safe on the Water.

At 01.30am on Tuesday morning Coast Guard Whangamata was advised of a small tinny with two men and a young boy on board which had overturned on the Bowentown bar late Monday evening. The young boy and his father made it back to the beach. The other adult was missing. Only the young boy was wearing a life jacket. G J Gardner Ranger joined the search at 05:45 that morning. Search assets included Westpac helicopter, a fixed wing aircraft, the NZ Navy Warship Taupo, as well as shore based assets all involved in searching for the missing person.

The search proved unsuccessful on the Tuesday.

The photo - taken from Gardner Ranger - show Avoco Rescue (Waihi Beach) and the HMNZS Taupo. Mt Maunganui in the background.

GJ Gardner Rescue is now at the painting and wiring stage. Undercoating of the interior has been completed and electrical wiring abou to get underway. All required instruments are on site awaiting wiring and installation. The motors should be available for mounting in the next two weeks. Fingers crossed for a pre Christmas delivery!!

All assisted vessels and persons on board returned safely to port.

05 Oct. Power-boat. Flat batteries. 2 POB. 4nm SSE of Whangamata. CRV GJ Gardner Ranger assisted with battery jump start and then escorted the underway vessel back to the launching ramp.

Total Coastguard man-hours 10h 50m.

07 Oct. Yacht 11.3m. Engine failure. 2 POB. Under sail from Mayor Island. Requested assistance to clear the Whangamata entrance and thence to Marina berth. CRV GJ Gardner Rescue responded and met the yacht outside the entrance, rafted up and delivered the yacht to its marina berth.

Total Coastguard man-hours 08h.

11 Oct. Yacht 10.6m. Engine failure. 2 POB. . Requested assistance to clear the Whangamata entrance and thence to Marina berth. CRV GJ Gardner Rescue responded and met the yacht outside the entrance, rafted up and delivered the yacht to its marina berth.

Total Coastguard man-hours 10h.

21 Oct. Power-boat 3.6m. 2 POB. Engine failure. 0.6nm ENE of Donut Island. The skipper phoned the Ocean Sports Club to advise of his situation and needing assistance. Ocean Sports Club radioed CG Whangamata on Channel 04 advising the incident. A Vessel of Opportunity (VoOP) nearby at the Pinnacles responded to the radio transmissions and advised that they being of sufficient size and experience offered to assist the target vessel. This was approved and the VoOP located and tow assisted the vessel to the Whangamata boat ramp. A special thankyou to Oban the VoOP for their assistance.

Total Coastguard man-hours 3 hrs.

AUGUST 2017. All assisted vessels and persons on board returned safely to port.

12 Aug 3 solo Kayakers caught in strong Westerly winds and being blown offshore. Sighted approximately 200m out from the Whangamata Surf Club and in need of assistance. Coastguard Whangamata alerted for possible assistance. A Launch being a Vessel of Opportunity (VoOP) berthed at the wharf and on hearing VHF radio communications immediately cast off and went to the aid of the 3 kayakers. The VoOP successfully rescued and returned the kayakers and their kayaks to the wharf. There they were met and received treatment for hypothermia by the waiting St John’s ambulance crew.

A special THANKYOU to Carol Ann the VoOP for their assistance.

Total Coastguard man-hours 1hr.

17 Aug Yacht 10m. Dismasted in strong winds. 2 P.O.B. 8nm NNE of Whangamata entrance. A phone call was made from the yacht to Police for assistance. Police then alerted CG Whangamata. The CRV Gardner Ranger was tasked to assist and on arrival provided assistance in securing aboard the yacht, the mast, boom, rigging and sails to prevent trailing in the sea. CRV Gardner Ranger then escorted the yacht under its own power to the Whangamata entrance and then tow assisted the yacht to a marina berth.

Total Coastguard man-hours 51hrs.

Land-based radio operations personnel assisted with two of the following incidents:

04 July Launch struck rocks at marina entrance resulting in propeller damage. The Skipper contacted the on duty Coastguard Radio Operator requesting they contact the Marina Office to arrange for an immediate vessel lift-out. The Marina Office confirmed the immediate availability for lift-out. CG RO then advised the Launch skipper and the Launch was successfully lifted out.

17 July Launch. One of its twin engines failed. 3 P.O.B. In transit from Waihau Bay to Whangamata with approximately 4-5 hours travel-time to Whangamata. CG Whangamata Radio was advised of the situation and maintained listening watch on progress. No CRV assistance required as the launch continued under power on one engine and later arrived safely at Whangamata.

23 July Catamaran 8m. Adrift after slipping its mooring during the night. Between outer marker and Clark Island.

CRV GJ Gardner Ranger tow assisted to Whangamata visitor’s mooring.

Total Coastguard man hours 11hrs.

Coastguard Eastern Region - Home

Radio Operators Needed!

Coastguard Eastern Region is in need of volunteers for our Regional Radio Room in Mount Maunganui. Volunteers will be expected to commit to a minimum of one shift per week and must be open to the possibility of weekend rostering. No experience necessary, just a desire to learn and a can-do attitude. Please contact Nicole Harris cersupport@coastguard.co.nz for further information.

All assisted vessels and persons on board returned safely to port.

04 June Launch. Mechanical problem. 4 P.O.B. Mataora Bay, S from Whangamata.

Initial request for CRV GJ Gardner Ranger as tow assist. Problem resolved soon after request and assistance not required. Vessel returned under own power to Whangamata.

Total Coastguard man hours 03.

08 June Car and trailer-boat retrieval stuck in sand at boat ramp. Request for Coastguard assistance. Duty Officer responded with vehicle chain assistance and dual towage with assisting tractor pulled free car and trailer-boat.

Total Coastguard man hours 01.

11 June Power-boat. Battery failure. 4 P.O.B. 3.4nm SE from Whangamata.

CRV GJ Gardner Ranger assisted with battery jumpstart. Vessel returned under own power to Whangamata.

Total Coastguard man hours 14.

27 June Launch. 4 P.O.B. Grounded on sandbar near Whangamata entrance. Coastguard was advised of the incident and that the vessel not being in danger would await the rising tide. Launch was later safely towed clear by a passing launch.

Total Coastguard man hours 30 mins.

Coastguard Whangamata advise the following upcoming courses.

Any boatie who is a bit nervous of using the radio and lodging a trip report will benefit from the Radio Operators course. It’s a one day course. It is essential you let us know your boating plans so we can find you if it becomes necessary.

The Day Skipper course is of value to anyone skippering or crewing a boat and spending time on the water.

MARINE VHF RADIO OPERATOR COURSE. SUNDAY 13TH AUGUST 2017.

DAY SKIPPER COURSE. SATURDAY 9TH AND SUNDAY 10TH SEPTEMBER 2017.

VENUE: COASTGUARD WHANGAMATA

ENQUIRIES FOR BOTH COURSES TO:

PH 0800 40 80 90 COASTGUARD BOATING EDUCATION.

PH 07 867 1254 TUTOR DICK WILSON

PH 07 865 8965 KATHIE FRANCIS COASTGUARD WHANGAMATA

Many Congratulations to 5 of our trainee crew who became “Operational” following an exam last night.

Wayne Rymill

Allen Watson

Greg Burmester

Lucas Hutchison

Ken Worthington

Coastguard Whangamata recognise your dedication to attending the regular training sessions, both on and off the water and the time spent away from your families.

COASTGUARD WHANGAMATA CALLOUTS

April 2017. All assisted vessels and persons on board returned safely to port.

01 April Report received from a Launch of an object of interest in the waters 8nm ESE from the Whangamata Entrance. CRV GJ Gardner Ranger tasked to the target area. CRV GJ Gardner Ranger recovered target which proved to be a deceased animal. Total Coast Guard man hours - 15hrs.

04 April Yacht. Unable to retrieve fouled anchor. Homunga Bay, 2nm north of Waihi Beach. 1 P.O.B. With initial assistance from Waihi Beach Gallagher Rescue the anchor rope was cut. The yacht skipper then requested an escort to Whangamata harbour. CRV GJ Gardner Ranger was tasked to assist and escorted the yacht to a Whangamata Marina berth. Total Coast Guard man hours 17hrs.

08 April Power Boat. Engine failure. 60 metres SE of Third Island. 2 P.O.B.

CRV GJ Gardner Ranger tow assisted to Whangamata ramp.

Total Coast Guard man hours 13hrs.

14 April CER/Police advised CG Whangamata of 4 people being reported in possible difficulties off Ocean Beach, Whangamata. Both CRV GJ Gardner crew and Surf Rescue placed on standby. People in question made it back to the safety of the beach shoreline unassisted. All units then stood down.

15 April Personal water craft. Aground in Whangamata upper harbour. 2 P.O.B. Phone contact made to CG Whangamata but no assistance required. Owner recovered PWC later with incoming tide assistance. Recovery monitored by CG Whangamata.

27 April Yacht. Engine failure. Off Onemana. 1 P.O.B. Due to the Whangamata entrance high sea swell conditions and the low tidal water factor CRV GJ Gardner Ranger tow assisted the yacht to a temporary safe anchorage in the lee of Clark Island. At the conclusion of CRV GJ Gardner Ranger crew training later that evening the yacht was tow assisted to a Marina berth. Total Coast Guard man hours 21hrs.

Lifejackets are a vital piece of safety equipment when on or near the water. Evolution in design has led to a range of lifejacket styles in positive buoyancy (“foam”) and inflatable. Inflatable lifejackets however require extra care and mandatory servicing to ensure that they will work as intended when needed. This note provides information relating to the selection and care of lifejackets, and service for inflatable models. It is intended as a guide only. Informed Choice • Choose the most appropriate lifejacket for your height and weight, ability and waterbased activity. • There are two common styles of lifejackets – positive buoyancy (“foam”) and inflatable. • Foam lifejackets are relatively easy to care for, and require no mandatory servicing. • Inflatable lifejackets are less bulky and allow greater ease of movement, but require extra care, and must be serviced according to the manufacturer’s instructions. • Take time to know the difference and choose what is best for you and your activity. Pre-wear check • Always perform a pre-wear visual check of any lifejacket to ensure: o No visible signs of wear and tear. o All buckles zips and straps are not broken and in good condition. o With inflatable models you must also check:  The CO2 cylinder is full and screwed firmly in, hand tight.  The auto cartridge (if an automatic model) is screwed firmly in, hand tight.  The pull-cord is clear and ready for use if needed. Routine inspection and care of Inflatable models • Check use by date on auto cartridge (if fitted). • Check service date. • Inspect the CO2 cylinder for corrosion or damage, and the bladder for signs of abrasion and wear. • Inflate the bladder using the oral tube, until firm and leave overnight, inspect for any air loss or damage. • If the lifejacket is set for auto-inflation, remove the auto-inflation cartridge prior to rinsing. • Wash the jacket in warm soapy water and air dry thoroughly. NOTE: If there are signs of corrosion, wear, damage or leaks, take the lifejacket to a professional service agent or dispose of it appropriately – do not try to repair it yourself. Thoroughly dry the lifejacket and store in a dry and well ventilated place away from direct sunlight. Service of inflatable models • Inflatable lifejackets MUST be serviced once a year or in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions.

Incredibly beautiful beach service this morning for Anzac Day. G J Gardner Ranger escorted 2 Surf Patrol IRB's from behind Clarke Island and the flag was surfed into the beach by Ella Williams for the RSA. Lest we forget.

To the Ocean Sports Club for the donation to Coa

st Guard from their recently held Spear Fishing competition. The fish were auctioned and the proceeds came to Coast Guard.

March 2017. All assisted vessels and persons on board returned safely to port.

06 March Launch. Anchor rope fouled propeller shaft. Off Onemana. 3 P.O.B . CRV GJ Gardner Ranger tow assisted to Whangamata Marina.

07 March Launch. Mechanical gear failure. Near Slipper Island. 2 P.O.B.

CRV GJ Gardner Ranger tow assisted to Whangamata Berth.

08 March Yacht. Slipper Island. 2 P.O.B. Incident call received from Whangamata Marina Office who had taken an urgency phone call from the yacht. The yacht attempted a return to Whangamata in very rough storm conditions. Due to the extreme weather, the yacht was forced to head north, running with the storm. Both Tairua/Panuanui and Whitianga Coastguard vessels were activated to conduct a search for the yacht. Five hours of searching in the prevailing conditions produced no result other than to confirm that the yacht had not foundered on shore. Both Coastguard vessels returned to port with crews exhausted.

There were no further communications with the yacht following the two early cell phone calls.

All concerned were very relieved when a call came late in the day that the yacht had made shelter in The Cove at Great Mercy Island.

A good result from a very stressful day for all Coastguard volunteers involved, including the two rescue vessel crews, two incident management teams, radio comms operators, and the co-ordinated efforts of the three Coastguard units that serve our eastern coastline.

The following day, conditions had eased sufficiently for the yacht to make its return to Whangamata.

08 March Storm problems. The Whangamata Harbourmaster requested assistance to vessels on moorings and in danger of sinking from the heavy rainfall. CRV GJ Gardner Ranger responded and pumped out 4 vessels.

09 March Member of the public reports Surfer in possible difficulties near Surf Club. CRV GJ Gardner Ranger crew activated then later stood down on advice from the Police that the incident reported was a a drifting log.

20 March Hobie Catamaran overturned south of Wharekawa Harbour entrance. 1 P.O.B. Incident call taken from Coastguard Eastern region. CRV GJ Gardner Ranger despatched to assist. On arrival the Hobie cat had been righted with the assistance from a vessel of opportunity. CRV GJ Gardner Ranger stood by and confirmed the Hobie Cat sailing again and safe in Wharekawa harbour.

23 March Launch. Engine failure. 1nm E of Whangamata Harbour entrance. 2 P.O.B. CRV GJ Gardner Ranger tow assisted to Whangamata mooring

25 March Power-boat. Engine failure. 5nm WNW of Mayor Island. 2 P.O.B. CRV GJ Gardner Ranger tow assisted to Whangamata ramp.

29 March Power-boat. Steerage problem. 9nm ENE Whangamata entrance. 2 P.O.B. CRV GJ Gardner Ranger tow assisted to Whangamata ramp.

Our

new boat has now been turned over and work is progressing.

How exciting. Our new Rescue Boat is being turned over tomorrow. Good progress has been made and all our plans and dreams are coming together. See the Gallery for more photos.

Never assume because it is blowing 40 knots, gusting 50 knots, that Coast Guard Whangamata are doing nothing. The crew were out on G J Gardner pumping out boats on moorings in the harbor, which were in danger of sinking. There was also a rescue involving Pauanui and Whitianga, concerning a disabled yacht, unable to put sail up given the horrendous conditions and being swept up the coast. The yacht was located after a few hours but the crews were exhausted. Well done to all involved during the “weather bomb”.

February 2017 All assisted vessels and persons on board returned safely to port.

10 Feb Powerboat – Engine problem – 4nm East of Slipper Island – 5 P.O.B. CRV GJ Gardner Ranger tow assisted to Whangamata ramp

18 Feb Powerboat – Engine problem – 7nm NNE of Mayor Island – 3 P.O.B. CRV GJ Gardner Ranger tow assisted to Whangamata ramp

19 Feb Yacht – Engine problem – Anchored near Whangamata Harbour entrance off Hunt Road - 4 P.O.B – No radio contact with yacht. Whangamata Harbourmaster investigated the situation and advised Coastguard Whangamata. CRV GJ Gardner Ranger tow assisted to Whangamata wharf.

24 Feb Yacht – Engine problem – 1 P.O.B - Under tow by a vessel of opportunity from Slipper Island to Whangamata. Off Onemana called for assistance from Coastguard for the remaining travel. CRV GJ Gardner Ranger tow assisted to Whangamata mooring

25 Feb Swimmer. – Stranded on rocks near Whangamata Entrance markers – Alert from Police/ Coastguard Eastern Region – CRV crew on standby ready to launch if required. Passing boat took on board the stranded swimmer and landed safely back to Whangamata wharf.

Last night, I had the pleasure of being on board G. J. Gardner Ranger to witness the crew taking part in the compulsory annual In Water Survivability Exercise. We travelled to the back of Clarke Island and the crew were given a theoretical scenario whereby there was a fire on board. All efforts had been made to extinguish it and the crew were ordered to Abandon Ship. They had time to grab a jacket and anything that floated and over they went. The purpose of the exercise is to ensure personal and team survival and they had to stay in the water for 20 minutes. They accomplish this using a floating rope to ensure they stay together and they have a grab bag with food and water, radio, etc. We were assisted by the Whangamata Surf IRB, to monitor the crew close up. After 20 minutes they were retrieved, somewhat inelegantly as their jackets were sodden. We then came back into harbor where they had to swim to shore, taking about 15 minutes to do so. This was accomplished by all crew, giving a whole new meaning to the term “Wet Crew”. Congratulations to all. Further photo’s are available in the Gallery.

We took some of our radio operators out today for an Orientation Cruise on G J Gardner Ranger. Fabulous day for it. Instructive and enjoyable. Many thanks to the Skipper and Crew for your time.

COASTGUARD WHANGAMATA CALLOUTS

December 2016 All assisted vessels and persons on board returned safely to port.

03 Dec Yacht – Engine failed close to 3rd Island. - 1 P.O.B.

CRV GJ Gardner Ranger tow assisted to Whangamata marina.

17 Dec Powerboat – Gear failure – South of Alderman Is. - 2 P.O.B.

CRV GJ Gardner Ranger tow assisted to Whangamata ramp.

18 Dec Launch – Ran out of fuel – Rabbit Is, Sth of Slipper Is. – 3 P.O.B.

CRV GJ Gardner Ranger tow assisted to Whangamata mooring.

18 Dec Powerboat – Fuel problem – Near Whangamata Entrance. – 3 P.O.B. CRV GJ Gardner Ranger tow assisted to Whangamata ramp.

25 Dec Launch – Fuel problem – 7nm East of Slipper Is. – 2 P.O.B.

CRV GJ Gardner Ranger tow assisted to Whangamata mooring.

Callout from 2145 hrs to 0217 hrs.

28 Dec Overturned Dinghy. – Near Terakihi Point. – 1 P.O.B.

CRV GJ Gardner Ranger assisted Surfclub IRB to right dinghy and then tow assist to Whangamata harbour.

30 Dec 3 Persons stranded on Te Ananui Beach due to damaged dinghy and unable to return to powerboat with 1 P.O.B anchored offshore. CRV GJ Gardner Ranger stood by while Surfclub IRB ferried persons from shore to powerboat. CRV GJ Gardner Ranger then escorted powerboat and dinghy to the Whangamata ramp.

31 Dec Powerboat – Battery problem – Nth of Whiritoa Beach - 2 P.O.B. CRV GJ Gardner Ranger assisted with battery jump start and escorted powerboat back to Whangamata ramp.

January 2017 All assisted vessels and persons on board returned safely to port.

05 Jan Powerboat – Engine problem – 6nm SE of Whangamata Entrance - 3 P.O.B. CRV GJ Gardner Ranger tow assisted to Whangamata ramp.

06 Jan CRV GJ Gardner Ranger Crew on alert after a phone call from a family member with concerns that a vessel at sea had not been in contact with them. CRV GJ Gardner Ranger stood down 5 minutes later with news that the vessel concerned had reported back to the family member as all being A.O.K.

07 Jan Launch off Whiritoa reported into Police/Coastguard Eastern region by a member of the public with concerns of no movement seen on board for 15 hours. CRV GJ Gardner Ranger tasked to investigate. Launch located. Had overnighted and all on board safe and well.

07 Jan Powerboat – Battery problem. – North of Whiritoa – 6 P.O.B.

CRV GJ Gardner Ranger took aboard 3 persons and then tow assisted vessel back to Whangamata ramp.

25 Jan Powerboat – Engine failure – 50m line straight out from Whangamata – 5 P.O.B CRV GJ Gardner Ranger tow assisted to Whangamata ramp.