Maritime Times of Tasmania - Autumn Edition
TasPorts is a major supporter of many of Tasmania’s iconic yacht races.
Posted
05 July 2022
Since its inception in 1945, TasPorts has been a strong supporter of the Rolex Sydney Hobart Yacht Race (RSHYR), and we are delighted to host this truly iconic race and the Hobart Race Village at Kings Pier Marina.
The Melbourne to Hobart Yacht Race will host its 50th anniversary in 2022, with TasPorts accommodating the visiting vessels at the Port of Hobart since the race began. For the past 14 years, TasPorts has also supported the Launceston to Hobart Yacht Race and Race Village at Elizabeth Street Pier. Yacht Race entrants berth alongside Elizabeth Street Pier with the protection of one of TasPorts tugs acting as a temporary breakwater.
TasPorts is committed to supporting community engagement in port regions by hosting iconic events and sporting activities which show the connection between the ports and community. You might be surprised how many teams within TasPorts work together to support the various races held in or passing by our ports each year.
TasPorts Vessel Traffic Services (VTS) Authority is the primary tool used by TasPorts to manage the safe and efficient movement of vessels approaching and operating within our port limits and pilotage areas. When the first racing yachts round Tasman Island, VTS are alerted so we can monitor their position and ensure safe navigation in relation to other vessel traffic. VTS will monitor vessel traffic throughout the event, ensuring safe navigation of both yachts and merchant ships.
Our Community Engagement and Partnerships Officer works closely with race organisers on all aspects of the race and landside activities to ensure the smooth delivery of the event for participants, stakeholders and the public while ensuring port operations can continue unhindered.
Our Wharf Operations and Maintenance teams ready the site for action. They ensure the marina and wharf areas are in good working order and prepare the race village sites by removing infrastructure and hanging the many colourful civic banners that decorate the waterfront.
TasPorts are proud to support marine activities for the community’s enjoyment, and we hope that our support of these events further improves marine safety outcomes in waterways where TasPorts operates.
Originally published in the Maritime Museum of Tasmania's Maritime Times publication in April 2022. View the full magazine here.
GODLEY
For the past few years, the Godley has acted as the breakwater for the Launceston to Hobart Yacht Race. Built in New Zealand in 1977, the Godley complemented the other Port of Hobart tugs, Yandeyarra
and Mount Florance. While she may appear small, her lower bow profile proves helpful in assisting a wide range of smaller vessels, including the tall ships that often call the Port of Hobart home. You can find more details about our fleet on our website www.tasports.com.au/fleet
Image: Godley berthed at Domain Slip
