Australia: GLNG Funds New Safety Vessel for Port Curtis Sailing Club

Recreational sailors on Gladstone Harbour will enjoy safer boating conditions as a result of a new partnership announced today between the Port Curtis Sailing Club and GLNG.

GLNG, on behalf of its project partners, Santos, PETRONAS, Total and Kogas has provided $40,000 to the club for the purchase of a new safety vessel, which will be used during junior regattas and at other times when large numbers of yachts are operating on the harbour.

The funding will pay for a 5.5m rigid-inflatable boat (RIB) equipped with a four-stroke outboard engine, centre console, sunshade and marine radio, and a road trailer.

The safety vessel will be deployed during regattas and busy sailing periods to monitor yacht club vessels on the water and ensure they remain within set areas. It will also allow skippers of industrial vessels to make contact with the club when they are operating on the harbour.

GLNG Operations Pty Ltd Chief Executive Officer Mark Macfarlane said the new vessel would ensure the safety of yacht crews – especially junior sailors – when barges and large ferries were moving around the harbour.

“Gladstone is a busy, industrial harbour, and with growing international demand for Queensland’s minerals and resources – including LNG – it will only see increased movements of large vessels in the years ahead,” Mr Macfarlane said.

“In the short term, we recognise that ferries and barges carrying personnel and equipment to and from Curtis Island will also increase the risks to recreational harbour users, particularly inexperienced sailors.

“As good neighbours we want to do what we can to ensure sailors – especially young people competing in junior regattas – remain safe while they are enjoying the harbour and making the most of the Gladstone lifestyle.

“That’s why we’ve created this new partnership and backed it with a financial commitment. GLNG wants to work with the Gladstone community to leave a legacy from our project – safety for the community is a key area of focus for us.

“We are grateful to the Port Curtis Sailing Club for the cooperation they have given us on this issue. I believe it shows that new industries do not need to cause major disruption for residents, but can in fact work together to ensure we achieve economic prosperity while also protecting lifestyle and amenity.”

Gladstone Yacht Club Manager Brian Dawson welcomed GLNG’s financial support to buy a safety boat for the Sailing Club’s use.

“The Port Curtis Sailing Club is delighted with GLNG’s contribution of a safety boat for the Club. With the funds provided by GLNG the Club will ensure it has the best possible vessel to help ensure our young sailors stay safe on the water.

[mappress]

Source: GLNG, May 3, 2011;