On Tuesday 19th July, Race Briefing was held at DBCYA Club. The race committee hosted a BBQ for all participants to add to the celebrations of the week.
Rick Setter Chairman of the race committee welcomed all and introduced the Customs agent. He spoke of the requirements for clearance on Friday. Customs flexibility with times was appreciated by many. Customs also discussed requirements coming back to Australia in relation to notification of arrival and duty free allowances.
The AQIS representative spoke briefly on prohibited material on returning to Australia, notification for clearance on arrival and waste removal service.
Max from the Bureau of Meteorology gave a forecast for the race. Although he qualified that it was difficult to forecast more than 4 days in the tropics, the prognosis is that there will be Easterlies to South Easterlies of 15 to 30 knots once past the wind shadow of the Tiwi Islands. Waves will be up to 2 meters consistent with an enduring wind pattern. Some quick times should be made.
Race Control Ambon, Robyn Dix, introduced herself, although just about everybody has already met Robyn if not in person then through Facebook. Robyn asked all skippers to give fair warning of their impending arrival in Amahusu so that she may organise clearance procedures, as well as clock finish times. Robyn also explained the school gift program that has been done on behalf of the participants.
Mike Butler explained the SPOT Yacht Tracking system and demonstrated their working. This year every yacht will be carrying a SPOT tracking devise. This not only will allow greater safety but also allow those back home to follow the race progress.
Bruce Panting followed on with a comprehensive safety brief and further race instructions.
JR/ Duty Free donated a basket of goodies that will be put towards an appropriate prize at a latter date. They also took orders for their much sort after wares.
Everyone then enjoyed the BBQ that followed, getting to know each other and assess their competition. Great days ahead for sailing in Indonesia.
