Titirangi Volunteer Coastguard in the Community

Bar Awareness Day 14th Nov.2010

Titirangi Volunteer Coastguard hold two Bar Awareness Day’s a year, and on the 14th November 2010 it was time again to point out a few facts about crossing the Manukau Bar to those boaties who were willing to learn and to put safety and knowledge first before crossing this notorious piece of water. Through an excellent advertising campaign from Coastguard Northern Region, interest in this event started with a very favourable response from the public, and gained momentum up to the day of the event. In all there were 21 boats and two Jet Ski’s who participated and took the time to pre-register for the event.

Pre-registration was vital for the organising of this event, and all participants received an information pack prior to the event so that they were all familiar with commonly used navigational land marks and navigational aids which are used to ensure a safe passage through the Manukau heads. On the day of the crossing Titirangi Volunteer Coastguard assisted those boaties who wanted their vessels launched at French Bay due to the fact that it was a low tide and launching can be difficult in this area if you are not familiar with the terrain, this was greatly appreciated by those who took advantage of this service.

The event started with a brief which encompassed the information sent to all participants and was followed by a question and answer session to clarify areas where there was concern. After the brief all participants were transported back to their vessels and a radio check was done to ensure everyone was able to receive instructions during the crossing. All entries were given a generic Call Sign so that Trusts Rescue could monitor all vessels and know where they were in the procession of vessels, at all times.

On leaving French Bay each vessel was called on VHF and they fell into line creating a spectacular sight as all twenty three vessels preceded to the Manukau heads. On arrival at the heads an assessment of the sea state was done and a decision to cross was made. Once again the organisation and structure of the strategic plan was perfectly executed and this ensured a safe but exhilarating experience for all who took part. The flotilla proceeded through the South Channel without incident and then north to line up with the South West Channel for the re-entry to the harbour. A running commentary on navigation marks and sea state was ongoing to keep all the participants aware of any changes which may have taken place. On re-entry into the harbour each vessel was confirmed as they passed Trusts Rescue to ensure each participant had safely and successfully completed the round trip and back into the harbour.

The response which has been received has highlighted the need for a structured and safety conscious plan for an event such as this and with the overwhelming positive feedback Titirangi Volunteer Coastguard is sure this event will grow in popularity. Working as a structured and disciplined flotilla the Bar Awareness Day was successfully and safely executed.

Titirangi Volunteer Coastguard would like to thank all the participants for their appreciative comments to the crew of Trusts Rescue and Manukau Rescue 2 for an outstanding effort to ensure their safety.