Electric power needs the right ancillary equipment - MarineBusinessWorld Oceania newsletter
by Peter Rendle 17 Aug 2023 15:00 PDT
Energy Observer's stopover in Cape Town © Energy Observer Productions - Agathe Roullin
With attention leaning toward the progress of electric propulsion technology, ancillary equipment also has to be taken into account. We are reminded of this from propeller company Brunton.
With two of the worlds most advanced electrically- and wind-powered craft having travelled many thousands of miles propelled by Bruntons Autoprop Eco*Star propeller, and a rapidly growing number of other electric and hybrid powered craft now fitting them, it's time for an update. With more and more leisure and commercial vessels being launched powered by electric or hybrid systems it is perhaps not surprising that many ship/yacht builders and naval architects are looking at Bruntons Autoprop Eco*Star as their first-choice propeller.
In addition, apart from new builds, an increasing number of vessel owners are converting their craft from diesel to electric power. When the Eco*Star was first launched several years ago a small number of vessel owners decided to take the risk of fitting this unique and untried design of propeller to their craft. The results they are achieving, and their reactions to them, are proof enough that the Eco*Star really is the propeller which provides the best all round performance for electrically powered craft.
Two prime examples are the highly advanced research vessel the 'Energy Observer' and an increasing number of craft in the Saildrone fleet of autonomous ocean research vessels.
Staying with electric propulsion, nominations are now being accepted for the fourth annual Gustave Trouvé Awards for Excellence in Electric Boats and Boating; the international electric boat awards started in 2020 by electric boat news website Plugboats. Nominations are open to anyone. Members of the public as well as manufacturers and others in the marine industry are welcome to nominate an electric boat for an award.
Our safety fleets posted around the Australian coast provide our industry with a support system vital to encouraging boat owners to take to the seas. Many of these people are volunteers so it is important to recognise their achievements. Long-serving Marine Rescue Ballina volunteer Phillip Causley has taken out the Marine Rescue NSW agency award at the 2023 Rotary Districts of NSW Emergency Services Community Awards at Bankstown Sports Club.
Mr Causley was presented the award at the weekend and was supported by fellow Marine Rescue NSW finalists, Jervis Bay Grants Officer Leona Curran, Brunswick Unit Commander Jonathan Wilcock and Merimbula's Stewart Dietrich. Mr Causley has more than a decade of experience with Marine Rescue NSW after joining the Ballina unit in 2011. He has progressed through the ranks from crew to Coxswain and has also held the role of Deputy Unit Commander.
But they are not only involved in ocean rescues. Four Marine Rescue NSW volunteers from the Evans Head unit have received National Emergency Medals for their service during the 2019/20 bushfire emergency. Federal Member for Page Kevin Hogan presented the medals to Deputy Unit Commander Jim Roberts, Kira Hartland, Kerrie Exley and Ken Exley at the Marine Rescue Evans Head base. Marine Rescue NSW Acting Northern Zone Commander John Murray also attended the ceremony and congratulated the members for their service.
From Europe, news of two new yacht developments announced. The new NEEL 52 is set to burst onto the world stage with its launch at the Grand Pavois Boat Show in France from 20-25 September. Set in La Rochelle, the international in-water boat show will unveil the leading shipyard's latest model, which sets a new benchmark for innovation and design. With a racy, modern silhouette, elaborately designed hull and sleek lines, the NEEL 52 exudes power, speed, safety and elegance.
The trimaran accommodates up to twelve passengers yet is easily handled by a small crew. Courtesy of its three hulls it is also the only multihull of this size on the market that can offer up to six double cabins and two crew stations as an option. Multihull Solutions and The Yacht Sales Co will have Brand Specialist Andrew de Bruin at the boat show to assist clients with queries and inspections. Bookings are essential.
Also from Europe, X-Yachts revealed plans for the most dedicated racing project for decades. The first sketches and thoughts were presented in front of racers and media taking part in the ORC Worlds in Kiel. X-Yachts is one of the most race winning brands of all times, and after 44 years as leading brand they do indeed have the expertise and the momentum it takes to create another global winner, outlined the Australia and New Zealand Managing Director of X-Yachts, Kevin Wallis. The design of the XR will be focused on creating an out-of-the-box winner.
X-Yachts are bringing all the knowledge and experience from the previous racers. As always X-Qualities will be a key part in the design process, commented Wallis. X-Yachts are teaming up with the best partners in the business, and together they intend to design and build the fastest racer in its class. Some of the partners are Bouwe Bekking, Jesper Radich, North Sails, C-Performance and Max Gürgel. The XR will be launched early 2025.
From New Zealand, news of an upcoming conference. The organisers have advised that they are closing in on the New Zealand Marina and Boatyard Conference for 2023 and now have more than 100 registrations. If you plan to come and haven't registered yet, they recommend you do soon. One of the 2022 conference's most highly rated speakers, this year Tony Gardner of Archetype will be back to build on his work with our industry to bring you a brand-new presentation.
This workshop will give you practical insights and tips on three important leadership skills: adapting your style to suit the leadership situation you're in, delegating to develop your team and give yourself more time in your work day, and how to give feedback to improve their performance.
More marine industry news at www.MarineBusinessWorld.com/Oceania
If your company has industry news that you would like to share contact me at peter.rendle@marinebusinessworld.com
Stay safe,
Peter Rendle