We posted our first article on preparing for the new boating season last week and this week we cover off on a number of other aspects for consideration. Specifically, forecasts on the climate and weather from the Bureau of Meteorology (BOM), an alert worth noting from Marine Rescue NSW and news of what to expect from boat loans in coming weeks and months.
After two years of summer disruption due to COVID-19 and the previous summer sadly marked by catastrophic bushfires, many more Aussies are surely chomping at the bit to make the most of summer 2022/23. The official start of the boating season is the October Long Weekend which is now only a month and a bit away.
So let’s get into updating you on some important issues around buying a new boat for summer boating enjoyment.
Climate and Weather Forecast.
Weather plays a critical part on all aspects of boating. Boaters need to know what to expect before heading off to ensure conditions are safe, that there boat is well-equipped to handle the conditions and that they have the skills to handle the boat in inclement conditions.
Seasonal forecasts can also assist in the boat buying process as they can indicate the conditions which may be encountered and these may determine what boat to buy and especially what accessories and extras may be required.
The BOM released its latest Climate Driver on 16 August with information on climate forecasts and weather conditions over coming months. Sadly for those hoping for less rain, the release has the title – chance of La Nina increases.
The BOM has raised it La Nina alert due to cooling being renewed in the Pacific and modelling indicating a high likelihood of this driver in spring and into early summer. This increases the chance of rainfall above average in eastern and northern areas of Australia.
The ENSO (El Nino-Southern Oscillation) indicators, currently neutral, are showing a push to La Nina. The BOM utilises a number of climate models and reports that 4 of the 7 used are suggesting a return of La Nina in the early parts of spring.
Marine Rescue NSW Warning
Marine Rescue NSW issued a warning on its website on 16 August after some of their volunteers encountered a near miss for a yachtsman during a rescue. What should have been a straightforward rescue for the team, became a medical emergency the solo yachtsman they were rescuing fell very ill with hypothermia.
The yachtsman’s 4m monohull capsized off Macleans Point on the NSW south coat. The yachtsman, who was alone, could not right the yacht. Marine Rescue came to his assistance but his condition deteriorated when they got him aboard their boat. Ambulance crews were required to treat the man when they reached shore.
Tony Pollard, the Deputy Unit Commander of the Marine Rescue Sussex Inlet Unit described the experience as an eye-opener, seeing the speed with which hypothermia can take hold and seeing the serious outcomes it can have.
Deputy Commissioner Operations, Alex Barrell said this was a reminder to boaters that water temperatures in NSW were currently the coldest for the year. Without proper clothing or wetsuit, paddlers and boaters that get wet can swiftly succumb to hypothermia.
Anyone that starts to exhibit hypothermia symptoms which include exhaustion, shivering, drowsiness, disorientation and slurred speech should be treated quickly. Move the person for a dry, warm place, shelter them, remove wet clothing, cover with a blanket or other clothing, have them drink a warm drink and seek professional treatment from medical services.
This is a reminder to boaters to wear suitable clothing when heading out on the water and a suggestion, have spare set of dry clothes in a waterproof container if required. Doing a first aid course may also be a great idea for new boat owners to consider so they have the basic knowledge to deal with some such issues if they arise. .
Marine Rescue NSW has had the second busiest year on their record with nearly 4,000 rescues conducted. The organisation urges boaters to wear a lifejacket, follow safety information and advice and check the weather conditions.
Ensure life jackets, beacons and safety equipment are purchased with a new boat and Jade Boat Loans can include in the marine finance.
Boat Loans Updates
The major news around marine finance is of course the rate hikes by the RBA over the last four months. These increases to the cash rate lead to lenders raising their lending rates and hence we see boat loans interest rates increase with our lenders.
Following the RBA’s August meeting, the indications were that additional increases would be required in coming months with the next due on the first Tuesday in September. However, a slight drop in inflation in the US and other data may indicate a less than anticipated rise in September.
The message to those buying a boat with finance is to move quickly to ensure the boat loan is secured prior to any further rate rises. Jade Boat Loans will of course be sourcing the cheapest rate on our Secured Boat Loan to ensure a cheaper loan will add to your boating enjoyment.
Contact Jade Boat Loans on 1300 000 003 to discuss marine finance options to get you on the water for the start of the new boating season.
DISCLAIMER: THE INFORMATION AND SPECIFIC DETAILS CONTAINED IN THE CONTENT OF THIS ARTICLE HAVE BEEN PREPARED AND ARE PRESENTED PURELY AS GENERAL INFORMATION AND NOT INTENDED AS THE ONLY SOURCE OF FINANCIAL ADVICE FOR BOAT BUYERS AND LOAN BORROWERS. FOR THOSE THAT CONSIDER THEY REQUIRE SPECIFIC ADVICE, THEY SHOULD CONSULT WITH A FINANCIAL ADVISOR. LIABILITY IS NOT ACCEPTED IN REGARD TO ERRORS AND MISPRESENTED DATA AND DETAILS HEREIN.
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