RMYS Sailing Instructions PLEASE DO NOT TURN TRACK CHANGES ON. THANK YOU. GAMBLE PUBLISHING

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1 PLEASE DO NOT TURN TRACK CHANGES ON. THANK YOU. GAMBLE PUBLISHING

2 ROYAL MELBOURNE YACHT SQUADRON Victoria's Most Progressive and Friendliest Keelboat Club on Port Phillip First to admit Women as Senior Members First with the Australian Women's Keelboat Regatta First with the Moonlight Flit Series First with the Big Bay Race First with the Trade and Technical Lecture Series First with the "Best Start" award for Pursuit racing First with a 'Non Smoking' clubhouse First with IRC and AMS Pursuit Series 1

3 SAILING INSTRUCTIONS AND BOATING HANDBOOK Please keep this set of sailing instructions for future use as one copy only will be issued for each boat. Extra copies can be obtained from the Royal Melbourne Yacht Squadron office or RMYS website. - Address: Pier Road St. Kilda 3182 Postal Address: PO Box 2001 St. Kilda West 3182 Office: (03) Fax: (03) racing@rmys.com.au Internet: Correspondence: Committee Boat: Race Vessels: Land Based Call signs: Club Captain Royal Melbourne Yacht Squadron PO Box 2001 St. Kilda West 3182 William Paterson Killara, Albatross, Marshall Hawes Use prefix Squadron e.g. Squadron Tower, Squadron Base SPECIAL NOTE ENTRY DISCLAIMER It is the competitor s decision to enter an event or to start and continue in any race. Competitors shall accept that their participation in an event is at their exclusive risk, in every respect. Royal Melbourne Yacht Squadron, its officers, members, servants and agents accept no liability in respect of loss of life, personal injury or loss or damage to property which may be sustained by reason of a competitor s participation or intended participation in an event or howsoever arising in connection with an event. INSURANCE All boats competing in any event organised by Royal Melbourne Yacht Squadron shall have racing and third party insurance cover of not less than AUD $10,000,000. All owners/competitors who submit an entry are deemed to have made a declaration that they hold such cover. Competitors may be required to produce evidence of such insurance and any competitor not holding this cover shall withdraw their entry and may be disqualified. 2

4 TABLE OF CONTENTS SPORTSMANSHIP & THE RULES INSTRUCTIONS FOR ALL RACES Organising Authority Rules Advertising Safety requirements Eligible persons Notices to competitors Changes to Sailing Instructions Signals made ashore Signals made afloat Racing Programme & Entrants List Schedule of Races Division flags Class Flags Racing area Courses Starting line Timing Starting procedures Recalls Change of course after Committee Boat start Shortening course Finish line Time limit Protests and requests for redress Scoring Races not completed Starters and prizes Handicaps and ratings Race results Radio communication SPECIAL INSTRUCTIONS FOR PURSUIT RACES Sails to be used in Pursuit races Use of engines Starting procedures - Pursuit races Postponing Pursuit Races Individual recalls - Pursuit races General recalls - Pursuit races

5 TABLE OF CONTENTS 3 SPECIAL INSTRUCTIONS FOR NIGHT RACES Right of way rules Starting procedures - Races started after sunset Individual recalls - Night races General recalls - Night races Shortening course Postponement Abandonment Finishing MARKS RMYS marks PoMC / Parks Victoria Marks SYC, RYCV & RBYC Club Marks LAID COURSES General Triangle - windward & return courses Windward & return courses with gate Trapezoid Courses SQUADRON COURSES General PURSUIT COURSES General RMYS PERPETUAL TROPHY/RACE SUMMARY RMYS RECIPROCAL RIGHTS POLICY DEVELOPING A BETTER UNDERSTANDING OF FLAG PROTOCOL AND ETIQUETTE THE VARIOUS ENSIGNS PROTOCOL FOR THE DISPLAYING OF ENSIGNS SECONDARY FLAGS MISCELLANEOUS VESSEL RENAMING CEREMONY MAN OVERBOARD HYPOTHERMIA EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT GLOSSARY NOTES SPONSORS CALENDARS

6 SPORTSMANSHIP & THE RULES A body of rules governs competitors in the sport of sailing that they are expected to follow and enforce. A fundamental principle of sportsmanship is that when competitors break a rule they will promptly take a penalty, which may be to retire. 1. INSTRUCTIONS FOR ALL RACES 1.1 Organising Authority The Organising Authority is the Royal Melbourne Yacht Squadron. 1.2 Rules 1.2(a) All races will be governed by: (i) The Rules as defined in the Racing Rules of Sailing (RRS) of the International Sailing Federation (ISAF). If a regatta spans the time of release of a new RRS then the RRS in force at the time of the first race shall be used for the duration of the regatta. (ii) The Prescriptions and Special Regulations of Yachting Australia (YA). (iii) The Marine Safety Act 2010 (Vic) and the Marine Safety Regulations 2012 (Vic). (iv) Individual class and rating rules as appropriate (v) The International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea (IRPCAS) between sunset and sunrise (vi) Supplementary documentation issued separately including the Notice of Race, Schedule of Races, Racing Programme and Entrants List and these Sailing Instructions. Attention is drawn to RRS4, Decision to Race: The responsibility for a boat s decision to participate in a race or to continue racing is hers alone. 1.3 Advertising The advertising category shall be in accordance with RRS80 unless stated otherwise in the Notice of Race for a particular event or series. 1.4 Safety requirements 1.4(a) Safety Compliance Declarations A valid Safety Compliance Declaration (SCD) shall be submitted in respect to each competing boat. The SCD is valid for twelve months and expires on the 30 th September each year. The SCD certifies each boat meets the required safety category and that it will be maintained in that condition for the SCD period and that any change to the level of compliance will be notified to the Race Committee. Owners / Skippers who do not lodge a valid SCD shall be scored DNS in all races until a valid SCD is received by the Sailing Administrator. 5

7 1.4(b) Safety Compliance Declarations (SCD) Checks The Race Committee may carry out SCD checks at random. A boat not complying with a reasonable request of the Race Committee to carry out a check may be liable to have its entry invalidated from the race or series. Any entry fee paid will not be refunded. 1.4 (c) Upon completion of the SCD, Owners / Skippers shall affix the corresponding safety category sticker to the yacht s transom, if issued. 1.4(d) The safety category applicable to each race shall be in accordance with YA SR Part 1 Section 2 or as prescribed in the Notice of Race. In addition all boats shall carry a serviceable VHF radio. No anchor shall be carried on deck forward of the stem or with any part protruding outboard. 1.4(e) Off the beach (OTB) boats shall comply with YA Special 1.4(f) Regulations Part 2. Personal Safety/Personal Safety Devices All crews are reminded that they are responsible for their own personal safety irrespective of signals made or not made. It is strongly recommended that crews wear a Personal Floatation Device (PFD) and carry a signalling device such as a light during the hours of darkness, in strong winds and at all other times when it is deemed prudent. This recommendation does not change any requirements of the YA SR Part 1 and Victorian Legislation requiring the mandatory wearing of PFDs. 1.5 Eligible persons Section 1.5 applies to all boats entered in RMYS races and persons crewing on those boats. Where mentioned a RMYS boat means a boat on the RMYS Yacht Register as defined by the RMYS constitution. 1.5(a) 1.5(b) 1.5(c) 1.5(d) 1.5(e) 1.5(f) Boats may only be entered in RMYS races by eligible persons as per RRS46, RRS56 and RRS75. Boats must have on board a designated person as per RRS 46. A RMYS boat racing in a RMYS event whose owner/part owner or with RMYS crew with an RMYS account in arrears may be disqualified (DSQ) or prohibited from racing. Boats must be crewed by eligible persons as per RRS46, RRS56 and RRS75. Any boat that races with one or more crew who are not eligible persons may be disqualified (DSQ). Visitors crewing on RMYS yachts will be allowed to race as per the RMYS Day Pass system. Eligible crew for RMYS boats are to be recorded in the Crew Declaration folder on the Triad (or other designated place) before all RMYS races. Day Pass numbers must be recorded on the Crew Declaration. Failure to do so may result in the boat being disqualified (DSQ) by the Sailing Committee. Any alterations to Crew Declarations must be notified before the end of the protest lodgement period for that race. Where more than one RMYS race is being run on a day then a crew declaration can be submitted for that day and any alterations during that day can be notified before the end of the protest period for the race in question. 6

8 1.6 Notices to competitors Notices to competitors will be posted on the official notice board located in the RMYS Olympic Bar, and may be posted on the RMYS website. Boat representatives may be notified by SMS or Changes to Sailing Instructions 1.7(a) Any change to Sailing Instructions will be posted at least 2 hours before the start of the race on the day it will take effect except that any change to the schedule of races will be posted seven days before it will take effect. 1.7(b) Printed addenda may occasionally be made to these sailing instructions. The version number will be updated and any supplementary documents such as the Racing Programme & Entrants List will specify the current version. 1.8 Signals made ashore 1.8(a) Signals will be displayed from the flagstaff above the RMYS clubhouse. 1.8(b) When code flag Q is displayed from the clubhouse, all races scheduled as laid courses will be conducted from the breakwater tower using Squadron courses. 1.9 Signals made afloat 1.9(a) When code flag A is flown from the committee boat before the warning signal, mark A, (section 1.17 c) will replace the start mark buoy Racing Programme & Entrants List A Racing Programme & Entrants List will be issued for each race. It will include the following information; boats entered, sail numbers, skippers, handicaps and the following information. Item Starting line Type of course Time limit Example Breakwater or Committee Boat Pursuit, Laid, Squadron or Special 4 hours or sunset Safety category Category 6 Version of Sailing Instructions Version 5 7

9 1.11 Schedule of Races The Schedule of Races shall be as specified in the Notice of Race Division flags Boats competing in races started by division shall fly a divisional flag on their backstay or starboard rigging as follows: Division Division 0 Division 1 Division 2 Division 3 Cruising Two Handed Multihull Flag Black Blue Orange White Green Yellow Pink 1.13 Class Flags Class flags for yachts are as follows: Class Division 0 Division 1 Division 2 Division 3 Combined Divisions Two Handed Cruising Spinnaker Division Non-Spinnaker Multihull Code Flag D V E T R W G K O Pink Class flags for off-the-beach boats are as follows: Class Code Flag 12 ft Cadet dinghies U Advanced dinghies D Intermediate dinghies J Lasers Class flag Sabots Class flag Pacers F Xtreme dinghies E Kiteboards 2nd Sub 8

10 1.14 Racing area 1.14(a) The racing area for daylight races, except passage races and inter-club series, is illustrated on the map on the centre pages of these instructions. 1.14(b) For races conducted wholly or partly between sunset and sunrise, inter-club series and passage races, the racing area is the waters of Port Phillip Courses 1.15(a) RMYS laid courses are listed in Section (b) Squadron, Pursuit and Passage courses are raced around fixed marks and listed in Sections 6 and 7. These courses start and finish at the Breakwater. 1.15(c) Special courses will be detailed in the sailing instructions for the particular race or series Starting line The start line will be indicated in the Racing Programme & Entrants List. It will be either a Breakwater Start or a Committee Boat Start. 1.17(a) The Breakwater Start shall be an imaginary line between the line on the face of the breakwater tower and mark A. A crowding buoy may be laid a short distance off the breakwater. This will be an extension of the breakwater tower. 1.17(b) The Committee Boat Start shall be an imaginary line between the signal mast displaying an orange flag on the committee boat, and a yellow cylindrical buoy. The Committee Boat will display the RMYS burgee. Failure of the Committee Boat to display the RMYS burgee will not be grounds for redress. This changes RRS62.1 (a). A crowding buoy may be laid near the Committee Boat. This will be an extension of the Committee Boat. If laid, boats shall leave this mark on the same hand as the Committee Boat Timing Times shall be taken from the visual signals; the failure of a sound signal shall be disregarded. 9

11 1.19 Starting procedures 1.19(a) Starting procedures for pursuit races are detailed in Section (b) Starting procedures for races started after sunset are detailed in Section (c) All races except for pursuit races and races started after sunset will be started in accordance with RRS26 as follows: STARTING PROCEDURE Signal Flag Sound Minutes before starting signal Warning Class flag; 1 sound 5 Preparator P,I, Z, Z with I, or 1 sound 4 y black flag Oneminute Preparatory flag 1 long 1 removed sound Starting Class flag removed 1 sound (d) 1.19(e) The Warning signal for each succeeding class shall be made with or after the Starting signal for the preceding class. i. A pre-race sign on schedule for all passage and night races will be conducted by RMYS on VHF channel 73, commencing no later than 30 minutes before the warning signal. Yachts will be called in the order they appear on the starters list and should respond: (Boat Name) is a starter, (xx) persons on board, over ii. Yachts who do not respond on the first call must wait until they are re-called at the end of the schedule. iii. Failure to sign on at the pre-race schedule shall result in the yacht being scored DNS (f) A boat starting later than ten (10) minutes after her starting signal will be scored DNS without a hearing. This changes rule A Recalls 1.20(a) Individual recalls will be made in accordance with RRS29.1. An announcement of premature starters may be made by radio on VHF channel (b) 1.20(c) General recalls will be made in accordance with RRS29.2. When a general recall has been signalled, the start(s) for the succeeding class(es) will be postponed accordingly. 10

12 1.21 Change of course after Committee Boat start 1.21(a) When changing the course after the start, the race committee will lay a new mark and lift the original mark as soon as practicable. Any mark to be rounded after the new mark may also be relocated to maintain the original course configuration. 1.21(b) A change of course will be signalled by a race committee boat stationed near the mark beginning the leg being changed. The boat will display code flag C and make repetitive sound signals. The change will be signalled before the leading boat has begun the leg, even if the new mark is not yet in position. 1.21(c) If the new mark is itself to be replaced in a subsequent change of course, it will be replaced with the original mark Shortening course 1.22(a) Shortened course will be signalled in accordance with RRS (b) For Squadron courses, when code flag S is displayed, finish between mark A and the breakwater tower Finish line 1.23(a) The Breakwater Finish shall be an imaginary line between the line on the face of the breakwater tower and mark A. 1.23(b) The Committee Boat Finish shall be an imaginary line between the signal mast displaying an orange flag on the committee boat, and an orange cylindrical buoy which may carry a horizontal black band Time limit 1.24(a) The time limit will be as stated on the Racing Programme & Entrants List. 1.24(b) A boat failing to finish within 60 minutes after the first boat finishes, or within the time limit, whichever is the later, shall be scored Did Not Finish (DNF). This changes RRS (c) The absolute time limit for Category 6 & 7 races is sunset. Any boats finishing after this time will be scored DNF (d) At the Expiry of the time limit, the Race Officer may advise on Channel 73 that no boat has finished within the time limit Protests and requests for redress 1.25(a) Protests and requests for redress shall be lodged in accordance with RRS Part 5, Section A. 1.25(b) Protests shall be lodged at the RMYS Office not later than 1000 hrs on the next RMYS Office business day following the race. 1.25(c) Protests may be heard at the RMYS clubhouse at 1900 hrs on the first Thursday following the race, unless otherwise advised Scoring The Low Point scoring system, RRS Appendix A, shall apply. The number of races scheduled and the number to be completed will be stated in the Notice of Race. 11

13 1.27 Races not completed Provisions for sailing of races scheduled but not completed, if required, will be prescribed in the Notice of Race and advised by a Notice to Competitors Starters and prizes 1.28(a) A minimum of three starters shall be required for a race to be started. 1.28(b) Prizes will be awarded at the discretion of the race committee based on the following guide: 1st prize only shall be awarded for races with three starters. 1st and 2nd prize only shall be awarded for races with four to seven starters. 1st, 2nd and 3rd prizes shall be awarded for races with eight or more starters Handicaps and ratings 1.29(a) RMYS reserves the right to alter or adjust, according to YV guidelines, the performance based handicap of boats entered in races it is conducting. 1.29(b) Time correction factors for events conducted for a rating system will be as disclosed on the current certificate; other information may be obtained from the relevant authority. 1.29(c) Any change that may affect the performance of a boat in a performance based handicap series or race, including the nominated skipper, helmsman or tactician, sails, ballast or measurement, shall be notified in writing to the sailing committee not less than 24 hours prior to the next race Race results Race results may be announced at the RMYS clubhouse and displayed on the notice board on the day of the race; results may also be displayed on the RMYS website Radio communication Except in an emergency, whilst racing, a boat shall neither make radio transmissions nor receive radio communications which are not available to all boats and this includes mobile phones. 2 SPECIAL INSTRUCTIONS FOR PURSUIT RACES 2.1 Sails to be used in Pursuit races Only headsails used for sailing close hauled to windward, mainsails and mizzens shall be used. All headsails shall be attached to the forestay at all times. 2.2 Use of engines Boats using their engines for propulsion after their preparatory signal shall stop their engines and execute a two turn penalty before starting. 12

14 2.3 Starting procedures - Pursuit races After the initial warning signal, boats proceeding to the pre-start side are requested not to cross the start line from the course side to the pre-start side. PURSUIT STARTING PROCEDURE (This changes RRS 26) Signal Flag Sound Warning Squadron burgee on tower when manned Course flag(s) & zero displayed 1 sound 5 Preparatory P flag 1 sound 4 One-minute P flag 1 long 1 removed sound Starting Number Board 00 removed 1 sound 0 Start of boats on 1 min handicap Start of boats on 6 min handicap Start of boats on 7 min handicap Number Board 01 removed Number Board 06 removed Number Board 07 removed 1 sound +1 1 sound +6 1 sound +7 Minutes before and after starting signal 2.3(a) Boats will be allocated a start time from zero upwards in whole minutes relative to their handicap. The first boat(s) to start will be allocated minute zero. Allocated times may not necessarily be consecutive. The start minute will be displayed using number boards in the start tower as an integer, e.g. 00, 06, 07, 11, 14 etc. Scheduled Start Time 18:00 Allocated Number Start Time Start time Board 0: hrs 0: hrs 0: hrs 0: hrs 0: hrs 13

15 2.3(b) 2.3(c) 2.3(d) The first boat(s) shall start in accordance with RRS26 except that number boards 00 will be displayed as the warning signal and lowered as the start signal. For subsequent boats, their preparatory signal and their one minute signal shall be deemed made at four minutes and at one minute respectively before their nominal starting time. Their starting signal will be the removal of the number boards relative to their allocated start time. This changes RRS26. Boats not yet racing (before their deemed preparatory signal) shall keep clear of boats that are racing (after their deemed preparatory signal) at least three boat lengths from the start line. If reasonably possible, a boat not racing shall not interfere with a boat that is racing. 2.4 Postponing Pursuit Races 2.4(a) Postponement of pursuit races shall be in accordance with RRS (b) In the event of postponement, the minutes allocated will remain the same. Yachts will start at their allocated number of minutes after the rescheduled start time. The start sheet will not be reprinted. Yachts will be advised of the rescheduled start time via VHF Ch.73 and boat owners may be notified via text message. 2.5 Individual recalls - Pursuit races 2.5(a) Boats breaking their allocated start by one minute or more shall have that amount of time, which they would otherwise have saved, added to their elapsed time and then a further 10% time penalty added. No recall signal shall be made. This changes RRS (b) Boats breaking their allocated start by less than one minute: The race committee shall promptly display code flag 'X' accompanied by one sound signal. The flag will be displayed for a period of 30 seconds or until all such boats are completely on the pre-start side of the line or its extensions, whichever is earlier. A 10% elapsed time penalty shall apply to boats that fail to start correctly. This changes RRS General recalls - Pursuit races There shall be no general recalls. This changes RRS

16 3 SPECIAL INSTRUCTIONS FOR NIGHT RACES 3.1 Right of way rules Between sunset and sunrise, the International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea shall replace rules in RRS Part Starting procedures - Races started after sunset STARTING PROCEDURE (This changes RRS26) Signal Light Sound Minutes before starting signal Warning Amber strobe light 1 sound 5 displayed Preparatory Blue strobe light 1 sound 4 displayed One-minute Blue strobe light 1 long 1 extinguished sound Starting Amber strobe light extinguished 1 sound Individual recalls - Night races When at her starting signal, any part of a boat s hull, crew or equipment is on the course side of the starting line, the race committee will promptly display a blue strobe light accompanied by one sound signal until all such boats are wholly on the pre-start side of the line or for four minutes, whichever is earlier. A general announcement indicating premature starters may also be made by radio on VHF Channel 73. This changes RRS General recalls - Night races There shall be no general recalls. This changes RRS Shortening course The course may be shortened at mark A. As the first boat approaches the finish an amber strobe light will be illuminated from the Breakwater Tower, accompanied by two sound signals. Notification may also be made by radio on VHF Channel 73. This changes RRS Postponement Before the starting signal the race committee may postpone the race for any reason. Postponement shall be signalled by a red strobe light, accompanied by two sound signals. An announcement and a time proposal for the new warning signal may be broadcast by radio on VHF Channel 73. This changes RRS

17 3.7 Abandonment The race committee may at any time, and for any reason, abandon the race. Abandonment shall be signalled by both red and blue strobe lights, accompanied by three sound signals. No further racing for the day (night) will take place. An announcement may be made by radio on VHF Channel 73. This changes RRS27.3 & Finishing Boats finishing between sunset and sunrise are requested to notify RMYS race control by radio (call sign - Squadron Tower) on VHF channel 73 when 1Nm from the finish and illuminate their sail numbers continuously from 100 metres before the finish line until they have cleared the finish line. Boats should briefly radio Squadron Tower announcing their sail number when crossing the finish line. 4 MARKS 4.1 RMYS marks 4.1(a) RMYS fixed marks are yellow cylinders topped with St Andrew s Crosses and lights. They are designated A, B, C, D, E, F & G and carry the wording RMYS Yachting Mark Their approximate locations are listed in Section 4.1, of these instructions. The light sequence for these marks is Fl (4) Y. 10s. 4.1(b) Positions of PoMC (Port of Melbourne Corporation) and Parks Victoria marks listed below and are shown on the current Australian charts AUS 143, 154 and 155 as modified by Notices to Mariners. Latitude and longitude are approximate and no guarantee of accuracy may be presumed. 4.1(c) For laid courses rounding marks will be orange and cylindrical or conical in shape. They may be equipped to carry a black band. Start and Finish pin end marks will be yellow in colour and cylindrical in shape. RMYS MARKS Mark Lat S Long E A B C D E F G

18 4.2 Port of Melbourne Corporation and Parks Victoria Marks PoMC / PARKS VICTORIA MARKS Mark Description Lat S Long E WGS Datum (this is the datum that most GPSs are set to) BLA Blairgowrie Finish Line CAR2 Carrum No FWK Fawkner Beacon GB Gellibrand pile MORN Finish line at Mornington OA Outer Anchorage PARL Finish line at Portarlington PGB Prince George Bank Beacon PHEN Channel mark off Point Henry PWIL End of Point Wilson pier PR1 Point Richards No. 1 Beacon P2 Pipeline No Buoy P3 Pipeline No Buoy R1 Recreational Buoy No. 1 R2 Recreational Buoy No. 2 R4 Recreational Buoy No. 4 SC19 South Channel Mark 19 SPG Spoil ground Buoy WCH West Channel Pile T1 Transit lane

19 PoMC CHANNEL MARKS Mark Lat S Long E A A

20 4.3 SYC, RYCV & RBYC Club Marks SYC MARKS Mark Description Lat S Long E SYC1 Yellow Pillar SYC2 Yellow Pillar SYC3 Yellow Pillar SYC4 Yellow Pillar SYC5 Yellow Pillar SYC6 Yellow Pillar SYC7 Yellow Pillar SYC Breakwater RBYC MARKS Mark Colour Lat S Long E RBYC 1 Yellow RBYC 2 Yellow RBYC 3 Yellow RBYC 4 Yellow RBYC 5 Pink RBYC 6 Pink RYCV MARKS Mark Colour Lat S Long E R3 Yellow stick

21 5 LAID COURSES 5.1 General 5.1(a) Laid courses to be sailed will be indicated by numeral pennants. 5.1(b) Courses shall be sailed leaving all marks to port, unless a green flag is flown below the numeral pennant(s) indicating that all marks shall be left to starboard. 5.1(c) A compass bearing to the first mark may be displayed from the committee boat. 5.1(d) In the course diagrams and descriptions, CB indicates the committee boat. 5.1(e) Course diagrams are indicative of each individual leg only. Refer to course descriptions for the number of legs to be sailed and mark rounding order. 5.1(f) Where a hitch mark is included in the course description, it is designated H. 5.2 Triangle - windward & return courses 5.2(a) The start line may be laid approximately 0.1 Nm downwind of mark A. 5.2(b) The finish line may be laid approximately 0.1 Nm upwind of mark B. 5.2(c) The Race Officer will, at their discretion, set the length of each leg and reserves the right to lengthen, shorten or swing the course. TRIANGLE WINDWARD & RETURN COURSES No. Course Legs 1 Start, B, C, A, B, A, finish 6 2 Start, B, C, A, B, A, B, A, finish 8 3 Start, B, C, A, B, A, B, C, A, finish 9 20

22 5.3 Windward & return courses 5.3(a) The start line may be laid approximately 0.1 Nm downwind of mark A. 5.3(b) The finish line may be laid approximately 0.1 Nm upwind of mark B. 5.3(c) The Race Officer will, at their discretion, set the length of each leg and reserves the right to lengthen, shorten or swing the course. WINDWARD AND RETURN COURSES No. Course Legs 4 Start, B, H, A, B, finish 4 5 Start, B, H, A, B, A, finish 5 6 Start, B, H, A, B, A, B, finish 6 7 Start, B, H, A, B, A, B, A, finish 7 Courses 4 and 6 Courses 5 and 7 21

23 5.4 Windward & return courses with gate 5.4(a) The Race Officer will, at their discretion, set the length of each leg and reserves the right to lengthen, shorten or swing the course. WINDWARD AND RETURN COURSES WITH WINDWARD GATE No. Course Legs 8 Start, B, H, C, B, C, B, C, finish 7 On legs B-C pass A(P) or CB(S) On legs C-B pass A(P) and CB(S) 9 Start, B, H, C, B, C, finish On legs B-C, A(P) or CB(S) On legs C-B, A(P) and CB(S) 5 Courses 8 and 9 Illustration shows downwind leg passing A to Port. Boats may alternatively pass CB to starboard 22

24 WINDWARD AND RETURN COURSES WITH LEEWARD GATE No. Course Legs 10 Start, A, H, B1/B2, A, finish 4 11 Start, A, H, B1/B2, A, B1/B2, finish 5 12 Start, A, H, B1/B2, A, B1/B2, A, finish 6 13 Start, A, H, B1/B2, A, B1/B2, A, B1/B2, finish 7 Downwind, boats must pass between B1 and B2, i.e. B1 to starboard and B2 to port. Courses 10 & 12 Courses 11 & 13 Extra lap omitted for clarity (course 12) 23

25 5.5 Trapezoid Courses 5.5(a) The Race Officer will, at their discretion, set the length of each leg and reserves the right to lengthen, shorten or swing the course. No. Course Legs 14 Start, A, C, D, E, Finish 5 15 Start, A, C, D, C, D, E, Finish 7 16 Start, A, C, D, C, D, C, D, E, Finish 9 17 Start, A, B, A, C, D, E, Finish 7 18 Start, A, B, A, B, A, C, D, E Finish 9 Course 14 Courses 15 & 16 Courses 17 & 18 Extra lap omitted for clarity (course 16) Extra lap omitted for clarity (course 18) 24

26 6 SQUADRON COURSES 6.1 General 6.1(a) Squadron courses use RMYS, RBYC, SYC, RYCV, Parks Victoria and PoMC marks. These marks are listed in section 4 of these Sailing Instructions. 6.1(b) Courses will be indicated by numeral boards or numeral pennants displayed from the breakwater tower. 6.1(c) Marks shall be rounded or passed on the side indicated. If all marks are to be left to the same side, this will be shown in the column headed Side. SQUADRON COURSES No. Course Side Approx Dist. (Nm) 1 & num eral 2 & num eral 3 & num eral 4 & num eral 5. Start E C D A, numeral times finish Start D C E A, numeral times finish Start B A D finish, numeral times Start D A B finish, numeral times Start D C B A B finish S P S P 3.0 x numeral 3.0 x numeral 3.4 x numeral 3.4 x numeral P Start B C D A D B finish Start B C D A B C D finish Start D C B A D C B finish Start G C E A G A E finish Start R2 C D A B A D finish Start D C R2 A D A B finish Start D GB(S) P3(P) R2(P) finish Start B C D A B A D A B A D finish Start D C B A D A B A D A B finish Start B C D A B A D A B C D finish Start D C B A D A B A D C B finish S 7.2 S 8.0 P 8.0 P 8.5 S 10.2 P S 10.8 P 10.8 S 11.4 P Start G R2 A R3 finish Start G C E A G A E A G C E finish Start R3(S) P3(S) GB(P) D(S) A(S) B(S) C(S) D(S) finish Start R2 A D A R2 A D finish 25 P 11.7 P S 13.2

27 21. Start R2 G A R3 G finish S Start G R2 A G R3 finish P Start G(P) GB(S) P3(P) R2(P) A(P) G(P) finish Start G R2 A R2 finish 14.2 P Start R2 A R2 G finish S Start F C D A F A D A F C D finish Start FWK(S) RBYC1(P) C(P) R2(P) G(S) finish S Start G(P) R2(S) C(S) RBYC1(S) FWK(P) E(P) finish Start FWK(S) P3(S) GB(P) D(S) A(S) R2(S) A(S) D(S) finish Start G R2 A G R2 A G R3 finish Start G(P) GB(S) P3(P) T1(P) G(S) finish 20.7 P Start B(S) P3(P) OA(P) FWK(P) C(P) R2(P) E(P) finish Start R2 G A R2 G A R3 G finish Start R2 OA P3 GB(P) D A R2 A D finish S 22.2 S

28 35. Start FWK OA D A R2 A D finish S Start RBYC1(S) P2(S) R3(S) RBYC1(S) P2(S) RBYC1(P) E(P) finish Start RBYC1(S) P2(S) R3(S) RBYC1(S) P3(S) RBYC1(P) E(P) finish Start RBYC1(S) P3(S) R3(S) RBYC1(S) P3(S) RBYC1(P) E(P) finish Start R2(P) SYC1(S) OA(S) P3(S) R2(S) SYC1(S) OA(S) P3(S) R3(S) D(S) finish Start G(P) R2(S) OA(S) P3(S) GB(P) A(P) G(P) R2(P) E(P) A(P) G(P) R2(P) E(P) finish Start FWK(P) SYC1(S) OA(S) P3(S) FWK(S) SYC1(S) OA(S) P3(S) R3(P) D(S) finish Start R1(S) OA(S) P2(P) GB(P) G(S) finish Start R1 PGB OA P3 GB G finish S

29 7 PURSUIT COURSES 7.1 General 7.1(a) Pursuit courses use RMYS marks and Parks Victoria Mark R2. These marks are listed in Section 4 of these instructions. 7.1(b) Courses will be indicated by numeral pennants and/or a red or green flag displayed from the breakwater tower. 7.1(c) Marks shall be rounded or passed on the side indicated in the column headed Side, unless specified otherwise. Course Flag PURSUIT COURSES Course Side Dist. (Nm) Red Flag Start G F E Finish P 6.5 Red flag + 1 Start G C E Finish P 4.5 Red flag + 2 Start D F E Finish P 4.9 Red flag + 3 Start D C F E Finish P 5.0 Red flag + 4 Start G A E Finish P 3.9 Red flag + 5 Start D C E Finish P 3.0 Red flag + 6 Start G R2 E Finish P 8.6 Green flag Start E F G Finish S 6.5 Green flag + 1 Green flag + 2 Green flag + 3 Green flag + 4 Green flag + 5 Green flag + 6 Numeral 1 Numeral 2 Numeral 3 Numeral 4 Numeral 5 Numeral 6 Start E C G Finish S 4.5 Start E F D Finish S 4.9 Start E F C D Finish S 5.0 Start E A G Finish S 3.9 Start E C D Finish S 3.0 Start E R2 G Finish S 8.6 Start G(P) C(P) D(S) Finish Start D(P) C(S) G(S) Finish Start B(P) E(P) C(S) D(S) Finish. Start D(P) C(P) E(S) B(S) Finish. Start E(S) C(P) F(P) E(P) Finish Start E(S) C(P) R2(P) E(P) Finish

30 8 RMYS PERPETUAL TROPHY/RACE SUMMARY SUMMER TROPHY/EVENT Super Wednesday Twilight Sprint No perpetual trophy - Twilight Pursuit series at start of AEDT special handicaps. TYPE Jo Johannesen Trophy Pursuit Series - twilight races before Christmas. Dennis Livingston Trophy Measurement Trophy for Pursuit Series L.A. Nangle Trophy Pursuit Series - twilight races after Christmas. Terry Hill Trophy Measurement Trophy for Pursuit Series Ranee Trophy Best starter - Jo Johannesen and L A Nangle series. Twilight Spinnaker Series No perpetual trophy- 2 Twilight Sprint Series Spinnaker Twilight series. No perpetual trophy - Twilight Pursuit series at end of AEDT - special handicaps. Big Bay Challenge No perpetual trophy - 20 Hr How far can you sail? Port Phillip course. The Squadron Cup Squadron Cup Navigator Squadron Trophy Squadron Plate Moomba Cup Charles Marshall Trophy Edward Lumley Trophy Overnight race, Combined Divisions (Big Bay Challenge Race) No perpetual trophy - best log keeping. Long Race, Combined Divisions. (Port Phillip Sea Pilots race) AMS or IRC - winner of Squadron Trophy race. No perpetual trophy - Spinnaker race Labour Day Weekend. Overall winner of the Bert Watts, Doc Bennell and Dick Lean races scored as a series. Overall winner of the W.T. Crosbie Memorial Trophy, Cactus Cup and Services Shield races scored as a series. Bert Watts Trophy First race of the season. W.T. Crosbie Memorial Trophy Laid course race. Doc Bennell Trophy Long race. Cactus Cup A long story! Agar Wynne Trophy Combined divisions passage race- Melbourne to Geelong race to the Geelong Regatta or the return. International Cup Windward & return for YV Div 1 Dick Lean Trophy Services Shield Ruth Nangle Trophy Jeanette Turnbull Trophy Jennifer Goldsmith Memorial Trophy Napier Cup HC (Mick) Brooke Memorial Trophy Combined divisions race. Premium event. Pursuit race - passage, Melbourne-Geelong, end of summer weekend. Combined divisions - passage race, Geelong-Melbourne - end of summer weekend. Lady Skippers Race. Junior Skippers Keelboat Race. ANZAC Day Pursuit Race AMS winner 3

31 RMYS PERPETUAL TROPHY/RACE SUMMARY WINTER TROPHY/EVENT TYPE Australian Women s Keelboat Regatta Aurora Trophy EHC event winner. AWKR Measurement System Trophy AMS event winner. Tracy Luke & Ann Maree Pope IRC event winner. Memorial Trophy Best Performed Owner/Skipper Trophy Best placed owner/skipper ANZ Sportsmanship Award Sportsmanship Novice Helm Trophy Best placed novice helm Winter Series Mid-Week Mariners Ian Ewing Trophy Eric Wareing Trophy Justine Trophy Lodders Trophy J.H. McDonald Trophy Roy Hoffert/Les Nangle Trophy Winter Mixed Series SUMMER & WINTER TROPHY/EVENT Cheel Cup Major Morkham Trophy Harry Anderson Trophy AMS Aggregate 1st Division AMS Aggregate 2nd Division AMS Aggregate 3rd Division IRC Aggregate 1st Division IRC Aggregate 2nd Division IRC Aggregate 3rd Division Harold C. (Mick) Brooke Memorial Trophy (dedication pending) RMYS Long Distance Series John W. Crosbie Memorial Trophy Centenary Trophy No perpetual trophy- Winter Saturday Spinnaker Series. Winter Wednesday afternoon Pursuit 3 series of 10 races each. Midweek Mariners - Individual series winners. Midweek Mariners Winter Pursuit- best of 20 races. Mid Week Mariners - all 30 races to count. Best starter All Mid Week Mariners series. Winter Saturday Pursuit Series. RBYC v RMYS Flag Officers Sabot Dinghy Race Frostbite Trophy (a bottle of Yarra water). No perpetual trophy - Pursuit and Spinnaker races. TYPE YV - 1st Division Aggregate. YV - 2nd Division Aggregate. YV - 3rd Division Aggregate. Mrs Charles Marshall Memorial Trophy Keith McGregor Trophy. St. Kilda Yacht Club Grace Trophy. MMI Insurance Trophy. Alice Victoria Cup. Jan Marshall Trophy 1st Overall in a Measurement Handicap Division. The Percy Damman memorial Trophy Awarded to the Club member who has contributed most during the year. Awarded to the best Club sailor with the most consistent performance of the year. 4

32 9 RMYS RECIPROCAL RIGHTS POLICY Reciprocal rights are a means by which members of an affiliated yacht club (affiliated through a recognised world sailing body) are able to have restricted access to the facilities of the visited club. Reciprocal rights mean a person can enter an affiliated club provided they sign the Visitors Register. Royal Melbourne Yacht Squadron (RMYS) encourages and welcomes visitors to the Squadron. It is one of the most social and friendliest clubs on Port Phillip having a very active all year racing program along with many functions held throughout the year. However, in order to respect the rights of RMYS members, the following reciprocal rights for visitors from an affiliated club are applicable: Proof of affiliated club membership is required through a member s pass, Yachting Australia Card or some other form of club identification such as a Letter of Introduction. No more than 2 visits per month. This is enables a weekend visitor to come on both Saturday and Sunday and encourages frequent visitors to join the club. Reciprocal rights visitors are requested to identify themselves at the front door upon entry and sign the Visitors Book. Office staff will then take them on a tour of the club and show them the facilities or arrange this through a member. All visitors to the club (including those under reciprocal rights) who want to crew in a race are required to possess a valid Temporary Member Day Pass. A reciprocal rights visitor is expected to dress and behave in accordance with the rules and regulations of RMYS, which in most cases would model those of any other club around the world. Infringement and abuse of these requirements would result in follow-up action back to the visitors club where it is expected that their club would take the appropriate disciplinary action. Misuse or abuse of reciprocal rights may result in the affiliated club s reciprocal rights privileges being withdrawn. A reciprocal rights visitor with a boat is able to store their vessel and use the facilities of the marina at rates applicable to those of the public. This includes access to slipping facilities. 5

33 CAUTION! THIS MAP MUST NOT BE USED FOR NAVIGATION 6

34 10 DEVELOPING A BETTER UNDERSTANDING OF FLAG PROTOCOL AND ETIQUETTE As adopted for display at Royal Melbourne Yacht Squadron. The protocol under which a Royal Yacht Club and its members should abide is dictated by the Lords Commissioners of the Admiralty and the Royal Yachting Association (RYA). The correct Sea Flags to be displayed are grouped under various categories:-special Ensigns; Ensigns and to a lesser degree, Yacht Club Burgees, all of which a vessel Wears ; and Secondary flags comprising:-international Code,.Personal racing, House, Class, Fun and Advertising which a vessel Flies THE VARIOUS ENSIGNS SPECIAL ENSIGN The BLUE ENSIGN was originally assigned to the naval reserve and to ships belonging to the Civil Department of the Royal Navy and other State Departments. It was later to become the principle Ensign of all Royal Yacht Club s, strictly to be worn in conjunction with the each Club s Burgee. It consists of a plain Dark Blue field with the Union Jack in the upper canton and takes precedence over all other flags. It was issued to the Squadron by the Admiralty agreeable to a Warrant dated 27th day of March This Warrant DOES NOT in itself entitle any member to wear the Blue Ensign on board his yacht, before one can legally do so, the owner MUST first obtain a personal Warrant for that particular yacht through the Squadron s General Manager. Immediately the registered yacht is sold, the holder of such Warrant MUST then surrender that Warrant, as it DOES NOT carry over to the new owner or another yacht. By Admiralty direction ANY Royal Yacht Club owned vessel when engaged on official duties is automatically entitled to wear the Blue Ensign ENSIGNS AUSTRALIAN NATIONAL ENSIGN (Blue). This ensign takes precedence over the remaining Ensigns displayed in Australia. In 1954, under the direction of the Prime Minister Robert Menzies, it was adopted as the design for all occasions. It consists of a Dark Blue field displaying the Union Jack in the upper canton, a White seven-pointed Commonwealth Star centred beneath and the Five stars of the Southern Cross in White positioned in the fly. This is principally a land flag, though there is no Government direction that it should not be displayed on water. The RAN displays it at the Jack-staff (bow) on its vessels when in port, the Australian Volunteer Coast Guard displays it on its vessels and it is the Ensign displayed by Australian yachts when competing at International and Olympic Yachting events; accordingly it is the one adopted by the Squadron, to be freely worn by yachts on its register. 7

35 AUSTRALIAN RED ENSIGN:-The Navigation Act, Section 406 designates the Australian Red Ensign (the Australian National Ensign with Red field instead of Blue ) as the Ensign to be worn by all Merchant vessels registered under the Merchant Shipping Act, and by them alone. As yachts are not registered under the Act, they are excluded from the necessity to wear the Red Ensign. Strictly speaking contrary to all beliefs, the Red Ensign SHOULD BE worn continually by day and night when at sea, which is the accepted practice in the Merchant Fleet? VICTORIAN STATE ENSIGN:- This Ensign, principally a land flag, is basically the Blue Ensign with the Five Stars of the Southern Cross in White in the fly, above of which is a St Edward s Crown. WHITE ENSIGN: - (The Maritime Ensign of the Royal Australian Navy). This Ensign is similar in design to the National Ensign with the exception it has a White field with Blue stars. It is strictly a special Navy Ensign, NOT permitted to be displayed under any circumstances unless by the RAN. To do so would lead to Legal Action by the RAN. UNION JACK (The National Ensign of England).-An Act of Parliament (London) directs:- ON NO OCCASION MAY the Union Flag be worn by a yacht. To do so would also lead to Legal Action. BURGEE: - It is not an Ensign, it is the distinguishing maritime flag of a Yacht Club and MUST ONLY BE displayed as such. Its shape is triangular, with Flag-Officers burgees having individual distinguishing symbols in the lower canton and are swallow-tailed. The Burgee is 2:1 in size ratio PROTOCOL FOR THE DISPLAYING OF ENSIGNS IN ALL INSTANCES COLOURS TO BE RAISED AT 0800 Hrs AND STRUCK AT SUNSET ENSIGNS: With the exception of the AUSTRALIAN NATIONAL ENSIGN they are not to be displayed indiscriminately, and there are certain restrictions for each one. For reason the Blue Ensign is strictly a Sea Flag, it CAN ONLY be displayed on board a Club registered yacht or vessel accompanied by the Club Burgee when the owner is on board. If temporarily ashore the owner is still considered to be in charge of the vessel, otherwise if the owner s intention is to be absent for any length of time, the Blue Ensign MUST BE replaced by the Australian National Ensign (Blue). Unless a separate Warrant has been granted the Blue Ensign MUST NOT be displayed with the Burgee of another yacht club. 8

36 A special dispensation has been granted for the Squadron to display the Blue Ensign on the yard-arm of the foreshore clubhouse and only when accompanied by the Squadron s burgee at the peak, however without special permission from the Admiralty, it MUST NOT be displayed anywhere else on shore. Another dispensation permits it being displayed along with the Squadron s burgee, over the Left chest on plain White or Navy-blue clothing in a manner both are on staffs crossed at 90 degrees, the Ensign to the Left when facing. So as not to make the Ensign inferior, its staff MUST cross over that of the Burgee. THE AUSTRALIAN NATIONAL ENSIGN displayed at a meeting or function SHOULD BE positioned flat against the wall above and behind the speaker with its Union Jack to the LEFT when facing. If positioned draped on a staff on a platform, it MUST BE on the speaker s RIGHT as he/she faces the audience. The prime position of honour to wear Ensigns on a yacht is on a staff at the stern or substituted two-thirds up the distance of the backstay or aftermost leech, alternatively at the peak of the aftermost gaff on a gaff-rigged yacht. Note:-The Blue Ensign when displayed MUST ALWAYS BE accompanied by the Squadron Burgee displayed in its normal position and NO OTHER flag is permitted to be worn at the same time from the same position. On all occasions when hoisting an Ensign, it MUST BE hoisted FIRST followed by the Burgee and lowered LAST. If saluted by another vessel the Ensign displayed, if on the backstay or aftermost leech, to be slowly lowered 1/3rd the distance down, then raised, alternatively if on a staff at the stern, to be dipped. Before a race and on completing a race or retiring, an Ensign accompanied by the Burgee should be displayed. If cruising overseas it is customary to display on the starboard rigging, the National Ensign of the country visited, both during the stay and when leaving. An Ensign SHOULD NEVER be used for the purpose of unveiling a monument, plaque, on a table, or for any other similar function. In turn it SHOULD BE draped on a staff positioned near to the LEFT of the article when faced by the audience. Importantly it shall not be made up and broken out: moreover it should be hoisted close up. The flying of the Australian National Ensign upside-down as a signal of distress is recognisable, however internationally it is not accepted policy as many National Ensigns are reversible. The recognised Standard Distress Sheet stipulated by YA is an Orange sheet, 1.8 m X 1.2 m with a Black V or Black square above a Black circle. 9

37 When an Ensign becomes dilapidated and no longer serviceable, it SHOULD BE destroyed in a dignified manner by burning privately. BURGEE: - Along with the Blue Ensign the Squadron Burgee is strictly a maritime flag which restricts it to be ONLY worn on Squadron registered vessels and ONLY when afloat between the hours 8.00 AM to Sunset. In the past members have been expelled for incorrectly displaying it on land, however as before mentioned it is permitted for it to be displayed accompanied by the Blue Ensign on the club-house flag-staff. Permission has also been granted for the Burgee to be displayed on a staff or wire on an inside Club-house or private wall in a manner its hoist is to the LEFT when faced. Similarly the Burgee may be displayed in the correct manner, on a staff, singularly or along with the Ensign, positioned over the LEFT chest on White or Navy-blue clothing; on Navy-blue ties worn with White shirts; as a badge; or on Squadron approved stationary or publications. The prime position to display the Burgee on a yacht is from the main-mast head, or alternatively from the lower starboard cross-trees in a manner it DOES NOT make the Ensign inferior. It is considered etiquette, if a yacht is approaching another yacht club where her owner, if on board, is also a member and the yacht ids also registered, for the Burgee to be replaced by that of the approaching club. No Flag Officer s Burgee SHALL replace the Squadron Burgee on ANY vessel unless such Officer is on board, and the Squadron Burgee run up in its place immediately that Officer leaves the vessel. When two or more Flag Officers of the Squadron are on the board the same vessel, the Burgee of the most senior takes precedence MOURNING CIVIL OCCASION:-The Blue Ensign SHALL BE displayed at Half-Mast when specially demanded by the Government:- On the death of the Sovereign from the time of the announcement of the death up to the end and including the funeral. On the death of a Member of the Royal Family. On the death of a Foreign Sovereign or Chief of Staff on the day of the funeral. On the death of a distinguished Australian Citizen such as the Prime Minister or former Prime Minister on the day of the funeral. Anzac Day, April 25. To be flown at Half-mast until Noon, at the Mast-head until sunset. Remembrance Day, November 11. To be flown at the Peak from 0800 Hrs to 1030 Hrs, at Half-mast from 1030 Hrs till 1130 Hrs and at the Peak from 1130 Hrs until sunset. 10

38 MEMBER:-.The Squadron Burgee SHALL BE displayed at Half-mast on the day of the funeral or memorial service of a member, or at the discretion of the Committee for a prominent member of a sister Royal Yacht Club PROCEDURE TO HALF-MAST AN ENSIGN OR BURGEE It should ALWAYS be headed to its Peak, then Slowly lowered 1/3rd distance down (so termed Half-mast). It should again be Slowly hoisted to its peak before being hauled down for the day. NOTE: - Unless in Special circumstances, the Squadron Burgee MUST NOT be Half-masted simultaneously with the Ensign. FUNERALS:-If the Squadron Burgee is requested at a funeral to cover the coffin of a deceased member, its White Star SHOULD BE positioned over the LEFT shoulder of the deceased. Tradition has long been on the race day following the death of a prominent member, for a Black Ribbon, 900 mm in length, to be issued along with the day s Race Instructions. This to be flown during the day s events from the second top batten pocket of the after-most leech SECONDARY FLAGS INTERNATIONAL CODE; RACING; HOUSE; ADVERTISING and FUN FLAGS:-With the exception of Class racing flags positioned on the backstay, and International Code Flags, the remaining flags MUST NOT contravene Appendix G of the Racing Rules of Sailing. There are no restrictions as to size, colour, design or shape, other than they MUST NOT resemble any existing design or contravene any regulation and are displayed ONLY from the forestay, port rigging or back-stay in a manner they DO NOT make the Ensign or Burgee inferior. DRESSING SHIP: - Yachts and the Club-house may be Dressed Overall to celebrate Regattas or Special occasions. In the case of yachts this consists of striking the flags of the International code from Stem-head to Masthead, (from Mast-head to Mast-head where the yacht has more than one mast) and thence to the stern. Ensigns, Burgees and Private flags SHOULD NOT be used in Dressing Lines, and technically yachts SHOULD NOT be dressed overall when under-way. The Admiralty approved order for dressing ship as set out by the RYA is: E Q No.3 G No.8 Z No.4 W No.6 P No.1 I Ans T Y B X 1 st Sub H 3 RD Sub D F 2 nd Sub U A O M R No.2 J No.0 N No.9 K No.7 V No.5 L C S. If dressing line is not filled repeat the same sequence. 11

39 10.4 MISCELLANEOUS Other protocol items of interest include: - The Squadron s colours:- Red and White, were officially registered September As it is an unregistered design, the Squadron s Crest may be displayed freely. Strictly in accordance with naval fashion, Gold Crown and Anchor lapel badges (miniatures) are ONLY permitted to be displayed on Full Dress Uniforms (Dinner Suits) at formal functions when so directed by the General Committee. Compiled entirely from:- Flag Etiquette; Gerald Stanbroke Sturgess; Yacht Flags and Ensigns, Capt. E.M.C. Barraclough, R.N; Our Flag and How to Fly It, A. H. Smout; Brown s Signalling; Australian Volunteer Coast Guard Flag Instructions; Cruising, Peter Heaton; State Library (Vic) and RMYS archives; RYA book Flag Etiquette and Visual Signals. J.H. (Bert) Ferris. RMYS HISTORIAN Revised VESSEL RENAMING CEREMONY Renaming a boat is, of course, not something to be done lightly. Since the beginning of time, sailors have sworn that there are unlucky ships and the unluckiest ships of all are those who have defied the gods and changed their names. So, is there a way to change a name and not incur the wrath of those deities that rule the elements? Yes, there is. According to legend, each and every vessel is recorded by name in the Ledger of the Deep and is known personally to Poseidon, or Neptune, the god of the sea. It is logical therefore, if we wish to change the name of our boat, the first thing we must do is to purge its name from the Ledger of the Deep and from Poseidon s memory. This is an involved process beginning with the removal or obliteration of every trace of the boat s current identity. This is essential and must be done thoroughly. I once went through the ceremony after the owner had assured me that every reference to his boat s old name had been purged from her. A couple of weeks later, he discovered he had missed a faded name on her floating key chain. I advised him to start over, perhaps with a little extra libation for the ruler of the sea. Unfortunately, he declined. Since then, his boat has been struck by lightning, had its engine ruined by the ingress of the sea, been damaged by collision and finally sunk! It pays to be thorough. In purging your boat, it is acceptable to use White-Out or some similar obliterating fluid to expunge the boat s name from log books, engine and maintenance records etc., but it is much easier to simply remove the offending document from the boat and start afresh. Don t forget the life rings and especially the transom and forward name boards. Do not under any circumstances carry aboard any item bearing your boat s new name until the purging and renaming ceremonies have been completed! Once you are certain every reference to her old name has been removed from her, all that is left to do is to prepare a metal tag with the old name written on it in water-soluble ink. You will also need a bottle of reasonably good Champagne. Plain old sparkling wine won t cut it. 12

40 Since this is an auspicious occasion, it is a good time to invite your friends to witness and to party. Begin by invoking the name of the ruler of the deep as follows: Oh mighty and great ruler of the seas and oceans, to whom all ships and we who venture upon your vast domain are required to pay homage, implore you in your graciousness to expunge for all time from your records and recollection the name (here insert the old name of your vessel) which has ceased to be an entity in your kingdom. As proof thereof, we submit this ingot bearing her name to be corrupted through your powers and forever be purged from the sea. (At this point, the prepared metal tag is dropped from the bow of the boat into the sea.) In grateful acknowledgment of your munificence and dispensation, we offer these libations to your majesty and your court. (Pour at least half of the bottle of Champagne into the sea from East to West. The remainder may be passed among your guests.) It is usual for the renaming ceremony to be conducted immediately following the purging ceremony, although it may be done at any time after the purging ceremony. For this portion of the proceedings, you will need more Champagne, Much more because you have a few more gods to appease. Begin the renaming by again calling Poseidon as follows: Oh mighty and great ruler of the seas and oceans, to whom all ships and we who venture upon your vast domain are required to pay homage, implore you in your graciousness to take unto your records and recollection this worthy vessel hereafter and for all time known as (Here insert the new name you have chosen), guarding her with your mighty arm and trident and ensuring her of safe and rapid passage throughout her journeys within your realm. In appreciation of your munificence, dispensation and in honor of your greatness, we offer these libations to your majesty and your court. (At this point, one bottle of Champagne, less one glass for the master and one glass for the mate are poured into the sea from West to East.) The next step in the renaming ceremony is to appease the gods of the winds. This will assure you of fair winds and smooth seas. Because the four winds are brothers, it is permissible to invoke them all at the same time, however, during the ceremony; you must address each by name. Begin in this manner: Oh mighty rulers of the winds, through whose power our frail vessels traverse the wild and faceless deep, we implore you to grant this worthy vessel (Insert your boat s new name) the benefits and pleasures of your bounty, ensuring us of your gentle ministration according to our needs. (Facing north, pour a generous libation of Champagne into a Champagne flute and fling to the North as you intone :) Great Boreas, exalted ruler of the North Wind, grant us permission to use your mighty powers in the pursuit of our lawful endeavors, ever sparing us the overwhelming scourge of your scalding breath. 13

41 (Facing west, pour the same amount of Champagne and fling to the West while intoning :) Great Zephyrus, exalted ruler of the West Wind, grant us permission to use your mighty powers in the pursuit of our lawful endeavors, ever sparing us the overwhelming scourge of your wild breath. (Facing east, repeat and fling to the East.) Great Eurus, exalted ruler of the East Wind, grant us permission to use your mighty powers in the pursuit of our lawful endeavors, ever sparing us the overwhelming scourge of your mighty breath. (Facing south, repeat, flinging to the South.) Great Notus, exalted ruler of the South Wind, grant us permission to use your mighty powers in the pursuit of our lawful endeavors, ever sparing us the overwhelming scourge of your frigid breath. Of course, any champagne remaining will be the beginnings of a suitable celebration in honor of the occasion. Once the ceremony has been completed, you may bring aboard any and all items bearing the new name of your vessel. If you must schedule the painting of the new name on the transom before the ceremony, be sure the name is not revealed before the ceremony is finished. It may be covered with bunting or some other suitable material. By Capt. Pat 14

42 12 MAN OVERBOARD For information only Quickstop and Life sling MAN OVERBOARD - QUICK STOP AND THE LIFE SLING (OR SEATTLE SLING) When a crew member goes over the side recovery time is of the essence. In an effort to come up with a recovery system that is simple and lightening quick, the US Yacht Racing Union Safety at Sea Committee, the US Naval Academy Sailing Squadron, the Cruising Club of America Technical Committee and the Sailing Foundation of Seattle, Washington, joined forces to conduct extensive research and sea trials. The result of their collaboration is the Quick-Stop method of man-overboard recovery. The hallmark of this method is the immediate reduction of boat speed by turning in a direction to windward and thereafter manoeuvring at modest speed, remaining near the person. In most instances, this is superior to the conventional procedure of reaching off, then either gybing or tacking and returning on a reciprocal course. QUICK-STOP 1. Shout man overboard on the wind and designate a crew member to spot and point to the person s position in the water. The spotter should not take his eyes off the person. (see Figure 1). 2. Provide immediate flotation. Throw buoyant objects such as cockpit cushions, life rings and so on. These objects may not only come to the aid of the person, but will litter the water where he went overboard and help your spotter to keep him in view. Deployment of the pole and flag (Dan buoy) requires too much time. The pole is saved to put on top of the person in case the initial manoeuvre is unsuccessful. 3. Bring boat head-to wind and beyond. Figure 1 Twelve steps to a quick (see Figure 1) man-overboard recovery. 15

43 4. Allow headsail to back and further slow the boat. 5. Keep turning with the headsail backed until wind is abaft the beam. 6. Head on beam-to-broad reach course for two or three lengths then go nearly dead downwind. 7. Drop the headsail while keeping the mainsail centred (or nearly so). The jib sheets are not slacked, even during the dousing manoeuvre, to keep them inside the lifelines. 8. Hold the downwind course until person is abaft the beam. 9. Gybe. 10. Approach the person on a course of approximately 45 degrees to 60 degrees off the wind. 11. Establish contact with the person with heaving line or other device. The Naval Academy uses a throwing sock containing 75 feet of light floating line and a kapok bag that can be thrown into the wind because the line is kept inside the bag and trails out as it sails towards the person. 12. Effect recovery over the windward side. Quickstop under Spinnaker The same procedure is used to accommodate a spinnaker. Follow the preceding instructions. As the boat comes head-to-wind and the pole is eased to the head stay, the spinnaker halyard is lowered and the sail is gathered on the foredeck. The turn is continued through the tack and the approach phase commences. Quickstop in Yawls & Ketches Experiment with your mizzen sail. During sea trials, it was determined that the best procedure was to drop the mizzen as soon as it is convenient to do so during the early phase of Quick-Stop. Quickstop using Engine Use of the engine is not essential, although it s advisable to have it running in neutral, during the Quick-Stop phase, unless it is needed in the final approach. Check first for trailing lines! SHORTHANDED CREWS When there are only two people sailing together and a man-overboard accident occurs, the remaining crew member may have difficulty in handling the recovery alone. If the person has sustained injuries, getting him back aboard may be almost impossible. The Quick-Stop method is simple to effect by a single hander, with only one alteration to the procedure: the addition of a specialised piece of equipment called the Seattle Sling, a floating horse collar device that doubles as a hoisting sling. The Seattle Sling (Figure 2) is attached to the boat by a length of floating line three or four times the boat s length. When a crew member falls overboard the scenario should proceed as follows: Figure 2 The Life sling or Seattle Sling 16

44 Figure 3 Seven steps to a man-overboard recovery for shorthanded crews. 1. A cushion or other flotation is thrown while the boat is brought IMMEDIATELY head-to-wind, slowed and stopped. 2. The Seattle Sling is deployed by opening the bag that is hung on the stern pulpit and dropping the sling into the water. It will trail out astern and draw out the remaining line. 3. Once deployed the boat is sailed in a wide circle around the person with the line and sling trailing astern. The jib is not tendered but allowed to back from the head-to-wind position, which increases the rate of turn 4. Contact is established with the person by the line and sling being drawn inward by the boat s circling motion. The person then places the sling over his head and under his arms. 5. Upon on contact the boat is put head-to-wind again, the headsail is dropped to the deck and the main is doused. 6. As the boat drifts slowly backward, the crew begins pulling the sling and the person to the boat. If necessary, a cockpit winch can be used to assist in this phase, which should continue until the person is alongside and pulled up tightly until he is suspended in the sling (so that he will not drop out!) Reproduced by kind permission of US Sailing THE HOISTING RIG Note: Since the hoisting rig was developed, more evidence has emphasised the value in keeping a person horizontal particularly after long or hypothermic immersion. A par buckle or horizontal lift is highly desirable. 1. With the floating tether line, haul the person alongside, preferably on the windward side, from amidships to the quarter, wherever there are available cleats and winches. 2. Pull up on the tether line (with winch assistance, if necessary) to get the person s head and shoulders out of the water and cleat it. The person is now safe. 3. Attach a three or four-part tackle to the main or a spinnaker halyard, haul it up to a marked point, about 10 feet above the deck or high enough so that the person can be hoisted up and over the lifelines. Cleat off the halyard. 17

45 4. Attach the lower end of the tackle to the loop in the tether line that passes through the D-rings of the sling 5. Reeve the running end of the tackle through a sheet block or snatch block on deck and put it on a cockpit winch. Hoist the person aboard by winching in the running end of the tackle The rig depends on a little preparation. Identify a halyard or halyards and make suitable Figure 4 How to hoist on board marks. Prepare a three or four-point tackle and keep it for the purpose. Identify a snatch-block and its best station (probably near the mast), which could also be marked. Although brute strength may winch up direct on a halyard, there is little mechanical advantage and this rig will make the lift much easier. PARBUCKLE DEVICE (see below) This is an alternative to the hoisting rig. A patent version is known as the Tri-buckle. Another version is rectangular, like a climbing net. The net, or triangle of strong porous material, is clipped to the toe rail, the triangle top or net extremity clipped to a halyard extension. The person is manoeuvred or dragged alongside into the triangle or net then rolled onto the deck by hoisting the halyard. Hypothermic aftershock may be minimised by this method which keeps the person essentially horizontal. 18

46 13 HYPOTHERMIA WHAT IS IT? A condition in which exposure to cold air and/or water lowers body core temperature. Death can result from too low a brain and heart temperature. WHY BE CONCERNED? Hypothermia, even mild cases, decreases crew efficiency and increases risk of costly accidents. Proper planning against hypothermia can give a winning competitive edge. PREVENTION Wear warm clothing and a lifejacket/harness. Have proper foulweather kit for all crew. Dry suits are excellent. Insulate all areas of the body, especially the high heat-loss areas: head, neck, armpits, sides of chest and groin. Keep warm and dry, but avoid sweating; wear layered clothes. Rotate watch frequently. Get plenty of rest, prevent fatigue. Eat and drink normally, no alcohol. Prevent dehydration; watch urine colour (drink more if colour becomes more intense). Avoid seasickness. Take into account special medical problems of crew members. Regularly train crew in Man Overboard recovery. Have two or more crew trained in CPR (Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation). Have low-temperature rectal thermometer in first aid kit. SURVIVAL IN COLD WATER (under 75oF, 25oC) If boat is in trouble, put on dry or survival suits if carried. Radio for help; give position, number of crew, injuries, boat description. Make visual distress signals. Stay below if possible. Remain aboard until sinking is inevitable. If going overboard, launch life raft and EPIRB (Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacon). Take grab bag, visual distress signals and waterproof hand held VHF. Get into raft, stay out of water as water conducts heat out of the body 20 times faster than air. Remain near boat if practicable. If in the water, crew should stay together near the boar. This makes everyone easier to find, helps morale. Enter life raft; keep dry suit or survival suit on if worn. If not wearing dry suit or survival suit, make sure you wear a lifejacket, keep clothes and shoes on for some insulation and flotation. Keep hat on to protect head. Get all or as much of body out of water as soon as possible into raft or swamped boat or onto flotsam. Avoid swimming or treading water, which increases heat loss. Minimise exposed body surface. A splashguard accessory on the lifejacket greatly improves resistance to swallowing seawater and also accommodates involuntary gasping when plunged into cold water. HELP - Heat Escape Lessening Posture Head out of water, including back of head. Arms against sides, chest and PFD Lower legs crossed, knees raised as much as waves and stability permit, but keep knees together. Huddle - Two or more crew holding together Head out of water Arms hugging each other over PFD s. Maximum body contact, especially at chest, reducing all heat loss. Legs intertwined as much as possible. Talk to maintain morale. Remember. No one is a survivor until rescued. Keep calm, and make yourself visible. 19

47 SYMPTOMS and FIRST AID RANGES OF HYPOTHERMIA SYMPTOMS Note: Most physical symptoms vary with each individual and may be unreliable indicators of core body temperature. Only a low temperature rectal thermometer gives reliable core temperature (the mouth cools too rapidly). In general, as body temperature fails, symptoms will increase. MILD CONDITIONS (97-93 F, C) Shivering, cold hands and feet Still alert and able to help self Numbness in limbs, loss of dexterity, clumsiness Pain from cold MODERATE CONDITIONS (93-90 F, C) Same as above Confusion, loss of time estimation and reasoning power SEVERE CONDITIONS (90-82 F, C) Shivering decreases or stops Further loss of reasoning and recall, confusion, abnormal behaviour Person appears drunk, very clumsy, slurs speech, denies problem and may resist help Unable to help themselves Person semiconscious to unconscious Muscular rigidity increasing CRITICAL CONDITIONS (82 F, 28 C and below) Unconscious, may look dead Little or no apparent breathing Pulse slow and weak, or no pulse found Skin cold, may be bluish-grey colour Very rigid HYPOTHERMIA FIRST AID - ALL CASES Keep person horizontal Move person to dry, shelter and warmth Allow to urinate from horizontal position Handle gently Remove wet clothes - cut off if necessary Apply mild heat (comfortable to your skin) to head, neck, chest and groin use hot water bottles, warm moist towels Cover with blankets or sleeping bag; insulate from coldincluding head and neck Report to Doctor by radio MILD CASES Primary task is to prevent further heat loss and allow body to -re-warm itself. Give warm, sweet drinks - no alcohol - no caffeine Apply mild heat source to stabilise temperature and/or Re-heat to point of perspiring. Keep person warm and horizontal for several hours. 20

48 MODERATE CASES Same as above Offer sips of warm liquid only if person is fully conscious and able to swallow without difficulty - no alcohol - no caffeine Have person checked by doctor SEVERE CASES Get medical advice by radio, telephone or Sat Com Assist person, but avoid jarring him - rough handling may cause cardiac arrest or ventricular fibrillation of heart No food or drink Observe for vomiting and be prepared to clear airway Ignore pleas of Leave me alone, I m OK person is in serious trouble - keep continuous watch over person Lay person down in bunk, wedge in place, elevate feet, keep immobile; no exercise Apply external mild heat to head, neck, chest and groin - keep temperature from dropping, but avoid too rapid a temperature rise CRITICAL CASES Always assume the patient is revivable - hypothermic persons may look dead don t give up - pulse very difficult to feel, breathing may have stopped. Handle with extreme care Tilt the head back to open the airway-look, listen and feel for breathing and pulse for one to two full minutes If there is any breathing or pulse, no matter how faint or slow, do not give CPR, but keep a close watch on vital sign changes. Stabilise temperature with available heat sources, such as naked chest to back warming by other crew member (leave legs alone) If no breathing or pulse for one or two minutes, begin CPR immediately. Do not give up until person is thoroughly warm - alive or dead. Medical help imperative - hospitalisation needed WARNING First aid for severe and critical hypothermia is to add heat to stabilise temperature only. Rapid re-warming, such as a hot shower or bath, may be fatal; it will, at least, cause complications. Allow body to rewarm itself slowly. Body core temperature lags behind skin temperature during rewarming. Keep person protected for extended period after apparent full recovery or medical help arrives. Many hours are required for full return to normal temperature even though person says he has recovered. Always assume hypothermia is present in all man overboard situations in which person has been exposed for more than minutes Persons may also be suffering from near drowning, thus needing oxygen. Observe for vomiting. In a helicopter rescue, protect person - including the head - from rotor blast wind chill. Reproduced by kind permission of United States Sailing, Box 209, Newport R.I , and Richard Clifford 21

49 14 EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT 1. OBJECTIVE TO PROVIDE A SAFE ON-WATER ENVIRONMENT FOR COMPETITORS HAVING DUE REGARD FOR BOTH EXPECTED AND UNFORESEEN CONDITIONS 2. OUTLINE Attention is drawn to International Sailing Federation (ISAF) Racing Rules of Sailing Fundamental Rule 4, which states: The responsibility for a boat s decision to participate in a race or to continue racing is hers alone. Each boat skipper is to brief their crew on the location and use of all safety equipment carried on the vessel. This is to include the location of life jackets, life ring, Dan buoy, bolt cutters, torches, radio, flares, first aid kit and heaving line etc. Crews need to practise emergency response routines appropriate to the level of racing that they have entered. The crew need to be instructed and practiced in Man Overboard drill, radio operation and the procedure, location and operation of bilge pump/s. Procedures for heavy weather sailing should be practiced regularly including mainsail reefing, storm jib and trysail setting. In an emergency the priority is to save lives not the boat. Drifting or anchored boats can be picked up later. Safety of sailors will always override the preservation of yachts. 3. MEDICAL RESPONSE If it appears that ambulance attendance will be required, the request for such is to be made via the RMYS emergency contact list Appendix 1. If the boat is in a race on the bay, the Committee boat or Squadron Tower should be notified first as they may be able to organise and provide rapid transport for the injured person. The vessel s crew or rescue crew should advise the emergency contact as to which land based point they will be transporting the casualty to. This destination will be provided to Metropolitan Ambulance Service crews as the rendezvous point, e.g. Low Landing St. Kilda Pier. The RMYS office should be notified as soon as practicable. An injury log sheet should be filled out for each injured person and the completed document forwarded to the RMYS Sailing Administrator or Club Captain at the end of that day s racing or as soon as practical thereafter. An Incident Report should also be filled out if an emergency or a near miss has occurred. 22

50 4. EMERGENCY RESPONSE CO-ORDINATION The Race Officer will be responsible for the Event Coordination. The Race Officer will be the person responsible for declaration of an emergency situation on each course. If and when the Race Officer abandons races, responsibility passes to the Rescue Coordinator. Local search and rescue activity will generally be planned and implemented by the Rescue Coordinator based on shore. The Rescue Coordinator for RMYS will be located at the RMYS clubhouse. In the case of a missing person/yacht, coordination will transfer to Victoria Police / Water Police. 5. GUIDELINES FOR TOWING AND / OR ANCHORING BOATS If the situation permits, use a slow boat or small boat to tow yachts back to safe harbour for the following reasons: 1. A fast boat in most situations can still only tow at a slow speed; 2. Towing yachts can take up a lot of time, especially if you have a long way to shore; 3. A fast boat can cover more area in less time than a slow boat; 4. In some areas it may be better to have small or slow boats used to take over a tow. This would apply where you may have sandbars, speed restrictions, swimming, yachts moored etc and a slower speed may be necessary. If the situation calls for it, consider anchoring yachts (anchor line buoy clip). It is wise to leave notification on anchored or drifting yachts that the crew have been recovered. EMERGENCY PHONE CONTACT LIST RMYS Emergency (Police, Fire Ambulance) Police St. Kilda Coast Guard Melbourne Alfred Hospital Medical Centre Grey Street

51 GLOSSARY AMS Australian Measurement System Cat CB DNC DNF DNS DSQ GPS HBYC IRC IRPCS ISAF Nm NOR OoD P PFD PoMC RBYC RMYS RYCV RRS RYA S SAR SI s SYC VHF WGS YA YV Category Committee Boat Did not Compete Did not Finish Did not Start Disqualified Global Positioning System Hobson s Bay Yacht Club International Rule-Club International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea International Sailing Federation Nautical Mile Notice of Race Officer of the Day Port Personnel Flotation Device Port of Melbourne Corporation Royal Brighton Yacht Club Royal Melbourne Yacht Squadron Royal Yacht Club of Victoria Racing Rules of Sailing Royal Yachting Association Starboard Search and Rescue Sailing Instructions Sandringham Yacht Club Very High Frequency World Geodetic System Yachting Australia Yachting Victoria 24

52 SPONSORS RMYS thanks our sponsors for their valued and continuing support HELLY HANSEN NAUTILUS MARINE INSURANCE IBG INSURANCE BROKERS SUNDANCE MARINE TROUBLESHOOTERS AVAILABLE HORIZON SAILS KISS UNI-PRO MORSE AIR SYSTEMS REGIS AGED CARE ANZ RUNDLES B&G GOLDSMITH FAMILY 25