Operating Standards and Guidelines
For
Yachting Australia
Discover Sailing Centres
1 July 2014
Yachting Australia accredited Discover Sailing Centres must comply with these
Operating Standards and Guidelines to ensure continuing Yachting Australia
accreditation.
Yachting Australia Operating Standards and Guidelines for Discover Sailing Centres
Page 1 of 24
Last edited: 27/02/2014
OPERATING STANDARDS AND GUIDELINES FOR YACHTING AUSTRALIA
DISCOVER SAILING CENTRES
Contents
Objectives .............................................................................................................. 2
Scope .................................................................................................................... 3
Background............................................................................................................ 4
Service contact points for centres .......................................................................... 4
Operating Standards .............................................................................................. 5
Operating Procedures ............................................................................................ 6
Risk Management .................................................................................................. 6
Course Delivery ..................................................................................................... 8
Participant, Instructor and Vessel Ratios ................................................................ 8
Clothing and Equipment ....................................................................................... 10
Centre Management and Procedures .................................................................. 12
The Principal ........................................................................................................ 12
Applying for Accreditation .................................................................................... 12
Initial Review ........................................................................................................ 13
Accreditation ........................................................................................................ 13
Annual Review ..................................................................................................... 13
Withdrawal of Accreditation .................................................................................. 14
Other Matters ....................................................................................................... 14
Conflicts of Interest .............................................................................................. 14
Own boat tuition ................................................................................................... 14
Administration ...................................................................................................... 15
myCentre ............................................................................................................. 17
Online Shop Access ............................................................................................. 17
Insurance ............................................................................................................. 17
Public Liability Insurance ...................................................................................... 18
Insurance Assistance ........................................................................................... 18
ATTACHMENTS .................................................................................................. 19
Attachment 1: Powerboat and Safetyboat Fleet Checklist .................................... 20
Attachment 2: Dinghy Fleet Checklist................................................................... 22
Attachment 3: Keelboat Fleet Checklist ................................................................ 23
Attachment 4: Windsurfing Fleet Checklist ........................................................... 24
NOTE: any significant changes from previous versions of this document have been highlighted
in red.
Yachting Australia Operating Standards and Guidelines for Discover Sailing Centres
Page 2 of 24
Last edited: 27/02/2014
Objectives
Yachting Australia learn to sail and powerboat courses are one of the most important
ways of introducing Australians to sailing and clubs. Delivery of the courses within
these programs is the lifeblood of many sailing clubs and commercial centres that
operate at, or near sailing clubs.
Yachting Australia and its State Associations are strategically committed to growing
participation in sailing and club membership through the delivery of these programs
at centres. Marketing of the programs and courses is one element of this
commitment.
The community and government have high expectations of the standards of service
and delivery, including safety, of these programs at centres.
These Operating Standards and Guidelines are to ensure community and
government expectations are consistently fulfilled at all centres throughout Australia.
Scope
This document sets out the minimum standard of operation including equipment,
safety, tuition, service and administration required for Yachting Australia accreditation
to deliver the following programs as recognised Yachting Australia centres under the
Discover Sailing Brand:




Dinghy Sailing
Keelboat Sailing
Powerboating
Windsurfing
Centres wanting to conduct the Tackers program must be recognised for the Dinghy
program and additionally complete a Tackers agreement which outlines the specific
requirements of the Tackers program.
Yachting Australia learn to sail and powerboat programs may only be run at
recognised Discover Sailing Centres, by Yachting Australia qualified instructors.
Instructors must follow the Yachting Australia standards and syllabi, using
appropriate, well maintained equipment and suitable safety support, as outlined in
these standards and guidelines. If a centre conducts courses or activities that are not
Yachting Australia programs or courses, the centre must exercise all reasonable care
and skill and conduct such activities in accordance with best practice and/or the
Yachting Australia standards and guidelines.
Yachting Australia Operating Standards and Guidelines for Discover Sailing Centres
Page 3 of 24
Last edited: 27/02/2014
Background
The Australian Sports Commission commissioned significant market research into
participation in sailing. As a result of the information provided in the research report,
Yachting Australia developed a new entry program and brand – Discover Sailing.
This includes our learn to sail and powerboat programs, which are designed to attract
and retain a significant increase in participation in these programs, sailing, and club
membership.
Clubs are the members of State Associations, which in turn are members of Yachting
Australia, and we share the objective of growing participation in sailing. Commercial
centres are any legal entity that also shares that objective and qualifies to deliver the
programs in accord with these Operating Standards and Guidelines and all other
Yachting Australia policies. In this document any reference to centres includes both
clubs and commercial centres. These Operating Standards and Guidelines are the
same for both.
Service contact points for centres
These Operating Standards and Guidelines are developed and published by
Yachting Australia. Their adoption by centres and support of centres is the
responsibility of the State Association. The contact details of the State Associations
can be found on the Yachting Australia website (www.yachting.org.au)
State Associations are the first point of contact for centres for information,
application, and enquiries about the Yachting Australia Discover Sailing programs.
Yachting Australia Operating Standards and Guidelines for Discover Sailing Centres
Page 4 of 24
Last edited: 27/02/2014
Operating Standards
The minimum Operating Standards that a centre agrees to are:
1. Compliance with all Commonwealth and State Legislation and Regulations
including but not limited to Work (Occupational) Health and Safety, and
Maritime legislation and regulations.
For activities, including learn to sail and powerboat courses, for members, or
where no fee is charged, this is likely to be state legislation and regulation.
Where a non-member is charged a fee, this is deemed a commercial activity
and falls within the National System for (Domestic) Commercial Vessels
administered by the Australian Maritime Safety Authority (AMSA). Centres
require an AMSA Certificate of Operation . AMSA will issue this Certificate of
Operation through State and Territory Marine Safety Agencies by relying on
accreditation as a Discover Sailing Centre. The centre is responsible under
this AMSA Certificate of Operation, for ensuring full compliance with the
Discover Sailing Centre Operating Standards and Guidelines.
2. Compliance with all Yachting Australia policies, standards and guidelines
including those in this document.
3. Maintaining up to date risk and safety management plans, operating
procedures and emergency procedures.
4. Currency of insurance policies appropriate to instructors, club members and
participants of any programs.
In addition, the agreement a centre signs to be recognised includes requirements to:
1. Deliver all programs and courses in accordance with Yachting Australia
syllabi and the logbook for that program.
2. Only use Yachting Australia instructors qualified to the Yachting Australia
level appropriate to the program and course.
3. Pay the affiliation fees to the State Association, who in turn will remit a share
of those fees to Yachting Australia.
4. Issue every participant with a participant enrolment pack, available from the
Yachting Australia Online Shop, the contents of which will at a minimum
include a logbook, and a registered electronic certificate on completion of the
course.
5. Enrol every participant in every course in the Yachting Australia myCentre
system, including the participant contact details for purposes of myCentre
issuing the registered certificate. The centre will mark the customer as
completed in order to trigger the issue of the registered certificate and a
satisfaction survey.
Yachting Australia Operating Standards and Guidelines for Discover Sailing Centres
Page 5 of 24
Last edited: 27/02/2014
6. Comply with the Discover Sailing Brand Guidelines at all times
(http://www.yachting.org.au/participation/discover-sailing/brand/).
Operating Procedures
All centres must have a set of operating procedures for use by instructors and staff.
They should outline the key elements of how the centre operates in a simple and
understandable format. Operating procedures should include items such as roles &
responsibilities, training areas, courses provided, instructor ratios and how the centre
manages safety. The emphasis should be on what is done to make instructors and
customers as safe as possible.
Risk Management
The centre must have risk management documentation available for access at all
times by instructors and the State Association.
The risk management document should include:
A. A risk assessment for each location. This should be reviewed where necessary
prior to each individual course. A template risk management plan can be found
on the Yachting Australia website:
http://www.yachting.org.au/sportservices/safety/club-risk-and-safety-management/club-risk-management/
B. A signed (Work) Health and Safety policy statement;
C. Emergency Procedures to be followed in the event of a serious incident or
accident at the centre (for example a flip-chart, or emergency action plan with
contact details). These would normally include fire & evacuation, medical injuries,
contacting emergency services, reporting, and dealing with the media.
Emergency procedures should be located in an accessible place;
D. A means of ensuring Instructors have read and understand the operating
procedures, risk management and emergency procedures of the centre;
E. The defined operating areas for each activity which should be clearly described,
marked and free from avoidable hazards. Instructional staff should be fully aware
of designated operating areas and should observe them. The operating
procedures document must take into account any activities that take place
outside of the normal operating areas;
F. A means of communicating local hazards to instructors and participants. There
should also be a system in operation to ensure the participants have been briefed
on how to use any safety equipment.
G. Assessment of the launching and recovery areas, that should be suitable for the
levels of course being taught, the types and numbers of craft being used and the
prevailing weather pattern and local tidal effects, if applicable.
Yachting Australia Operating Standards and Guidelines for Discover Sailing Centres
Page 6 of 24
Last edited: 27/02/2014
H. A system that enables the centre to monitor the number of users that are on the
water at all times.
I.
A system to ensure boats, and other equipment are maintained in good condition
and that faulty equipment or boats are removed until effective repairs have been
completed. All boats should have an identification number.
J. Courses should be available to people of all abilities and suitable facilities,
wherever possible, be available to accommodate their abilities.
K. Availability of a safety swimmer other than the instructor should be considered for
all on water activity, especially when conducting wet drills in open water.
L. Safety Boats:
Sufficient safety boats must be available to provide cover for all courses in
progress at any one time. They should only be driven by persons holding a
minimum of a Yachting Australia Powerboat Handling certification and meet their
relevant state boat licensing requirements.
Safety boats must fully comply with Maritime Legislation and Local Regulations,
including any special provisions for club boats, in all regards, including equipment
and operation. Safety boats must comply with the additional safety boat
requirements listed as an attachment to this document.
The use of propeller guards for outboard motors is recommended at centres that
deliver dinghy and windsurfing training and where a safety boat is expected to
come close to a person in the water, such as in a capsize or rescue.
The safety boats and crew must be suitable for all types of activity and
equipment that will be undertaken in the operating areas and prevailing
conditions at the centre. The distance from the operating area to the shore base
should also be taken into account.
Instructors conducting introductory level courses from a safety boat should not
provide safety cover for other groups. For more advanced courses the safety
boat may be staffed by a safety boat driver holding a Yachting Australia Safety
Boat Operator certification, together with the instructor leading the session. The
mechanical failure of a safety boat should not compromise the safety of the
overall operation.
For more information on safety fleet guidelines please refer to Attachment 1
(page 20). For Safety boat ratios please see section Participant, Instructor and
Vessel Ratios.
M. Emergency communications between boat and the club or shore-base. The use
of VHF radios is recommended. When available operators should be licensed.
Where the operating area is out of sight of the shore-base, other means of
communication should be considered.
Yachting Australia Operating Standards and Guidelines for Discover Sailing Centres
Page 7 of 24
Last edited: 27/02/2014
N. Suitable First Aid Kit(s) that are located in an easily accessible and clearly
marked position. The contents should be regularly checked and re-stocked. A
first aid kit should be carried in each safety boat. A list of qualified first-aiders, in
addition to the Instructors, should be displayed in a prominent position. First Aid
manuals and CPR guidelines should be up to date.
O. Emergency communications for calling the emergency services. It is essential
that there is easy access at all times to a telephone, and a fully functional mobile
telephone is acceptable.
P. Adequate supervision of all activities at all times by a person holding an
appropriate Yachting Australia qualification. The centre must take in to account
suitable cover for lunchtimes, sick days and days off for senior staff.
Course Delivery
The Principal is responsible for the safety and quality of all course delivery at the
centre. However the instructor in charge will be expected to ensure that the
instructors are teaching to Yachting Australia standards and syllabi on a day-to-day
basis. Good tuition demands that good teaching methods are delivered using
appropriate equipment with the prescribed participant to instructor ratios. A flexible
teaching approach to ensure that this can be delivered in a variety of conditions is
essential.
Participant, Instructor and Vessel Ratios
The Principal must ensure that all courses run at their centre are run correctly by a
Yachting Australia instructor qualified to deliver that program and course and in
accord with the syllabi for the course. Tuition should comply with the following
participant to instructor ratios and safety boat ratios for all on-water activity. In all
ratios outlined in the table below:
 The instructor boat is deemed to be a safety boat.
 All Assistant Instructors must be under the direct supervision of an instructor.
If Assistant Instructors are used in either dinghy or windsurfing courses, it is
recommended that the instructor responsible for that course has a minimum
of two years previous instructing experience in the relevant program.
 All ratios provided are recommended for ideal conditions. In adverse
conditions (i.e. weather or locality), the centre should adopt lower participant
to instructor ratios (or higher safety boat to vessel ratios) based on the
assessment by the Principal and instructor and consider the level of
experience of the customers.
Yachting Australia Operating Standards and Guidelines for Discover Sailing Centres
Page 8 of 24
Last edited: 27/02/2014
Program
Maximum Vessel to Safety
Boat ratios
Maximum Participant to
Instructor Ratios
Comments
Dinghy
Experience
2:1
6:1
No more than 6 dinghies per Instructor
Crewed Dinghy
 6:1
 7-15:2
 15+ :3+
18:1
Single person dinghy
 6:1
 7-15 :2
 15+:3+
6:1
5:1 (with instructor onboard)
Boats should be in radio or telephone contact with the shore.
Boats without engines should be in contact with a suitable safety
boat. A buddy system can operate if one boat is capable of towing
the other to safety under power.
6:1
Maximum ratio of 3 boards : 1 Assistant Instructor (under direct
supervision of the Instructor) and ratio of 1 Assistant Instructor: 1
Instructor
Keelboat
Windsurfing
12:1
12+ :2+
If Assistant Instructors have a Yachting Australia Powerboat
Handling Certificate, (and are in a safety boat), there is a
maximum ratio of 3 dinghies:1 Assistant Instructor (in addition to
the instructor boat ratio) and a maximum ratio of 2 Assistant
Instructor: 1 Instructor
If using Assistant Instructors that remain in the dinghies with
participants, up to 3 Assistant Instructors can be used by a single
Instructor and each dinghy that contains an AI can be in addition
to the instructor boat ratio of 6:1.
Powerboat
Start Powerboating &
Powerboat Handling
Safety Boat Operator
4:1 (with a single vessel with
instructor on board)
6:1 (with multiple vessels all
vessels must have either an
instructor or helper on board).
6:1 (more than one vessel may
be used- only one instructor
required)
Yachting Australia Operating Standards and Guidelines for Discover Sailing Centres
Page 9 of 24
Last edited: 27/02/2014
Helpers assisting an Instructor must meet the following requisites:

Local regulations (e.g. RST, Boat License, Boat Safe)

Powerboat Handling certificate
 Experienced and competent
Equipment/Facilities
Clothing and Equipment
Good personal equipment can make all the difference to the quality and safety of the
experience.
A. Sufficient lifejackets in a range of sizes must be available for all participants.
Participants may supply their own lifejackets. All lifejackets must comply with
National and/or local Regulations and Standards.
Lifejackets should be
appropriate for the activity and of a size to fit each user correctly. The use of
crotch of thigh straps is recommended to prevent lifejackets from sliding up the
body in water. All lifejackets should be inspected regularly to ensure that they are
in good condition.
Inflatable lifejackets shall be serviced according the
manufacturers recommendations. Flotation testing is not required, however it is
recommended where there is doubt about the condition of older lifejackets.
Information on testing may be available from the manufacturer. If there is doubt
as to effectiveness, they should be tested or discarded.
There should be a system for rinsing equipment in fresh water after use,
particularly in salt water environments.
All participants and instructors must wear a lifejacket at all times on the water
that complies with the National and/or local Regulations and Standards.
B. In locations with adverse weather, sufficient numbers of wetsuits or wind and
waterproof jackets in a range of sizes should be available. All wetsuits must be in
good condition and an efficient system of cleansing and drying after use should
be seen to be in operation. At a basic level this may simply be rinsing and
hanging to drip-dry after use. Waterproofs supplied should be clean and
serviceable, and it should be clear on joining instructions whether the centre will
supply them.
C. Adequate dry areas ashore must be provided to give shelter in bad weather and
to enable a comfortable environment for shore-based teaching. These areas
should be appropriately furnished and equipped for this purpose. For centres
operating as part of a hotel or accommodation complex where the participants
are resident it is reasonable to expect that the participants would use their own
room or the hotels facilities for these purposes
D Change Rooms and Toilets:
Separate male and female changing rooms should be provided, with sufficient
accommodation for the average number of course participants. All facilities
provided must be hygienic, tidy and well maintained.
Toilet facilities, with soap and water for washing hands, should be located within
a reasonable walking distance. Separate male and female facilities should be
provided to comfortably accommodate the average number of course
Yachting Australia Operating Standards and Guidelines for Discover Sailing Centres
Page 10 of 24
Last edited: 27/02/2014
participants. Participants should not be expected to pay for the use of a public
facility.
E. Fuel Storage:
The centre should store its fuel with regard to legislation, and the safety of staff,
customers and the general public. Staff should be trained in the handling of fuel
both in terms of controlling fire risk and in terms of lifting and carrying containers.
It is expected that the centre be compliant with any relevant health and safety
legislation and Australian Standard 1940 – 2004 The storage and handling of
flammable and combustible liquids. A number of guidance documents are
available for the ‘minor storage’ of petrol.
F
Staff should be trained in the use of workshop equipment as required. The
workshop area should be clean and tidy with no unnecessary hazards, and not
accessible to participants. The centre should ensure that staff are trained in the
use of any hazardous substances that are in the workshop area and that these
substances are stored safely.
Yachting Australia Operating Standards and Guidelines for Discover Sailing Centres
Page 11 of 24
Last edited: 27/02/2014
Centre Management and Procedures
The Principal
The Principal is responsible for:
1. Signing the Application Form and Agreement on behalf of the centre.
2. Maintaining compliance with the Yachting Australia Operating Standards and
Guidelines.
3. Completing the Annual Review including the Centre Review Report form in
conjunction with the State Association.
4. The management of instructors. The Principal must ensure that Yachting
Australia programs are only delivered by a Yachting Australia qualified
instructor endorsed to deliver that program and course and that applicable
state legislations are followed and checked year on year (i.e. relevant police
checks).
The Principal does not need to hold any Yachting Australia qualifications but must be
a person who acts with the authority of the centre. For colleges and education
centres, the Centre Principal does not need to be the Principal of the college but
must be in a position to accept the responsibilities above.
Applying for Accreditation
Before applying for accreditation, the centre should ensure they comply with the
Yachting Australia standards and guidelines outlined in this document.
The term “Training Centre” was removed on 1 July 2012, and existing Yachting
Australia Training Centre agreements lapsed.
A copy of the agreement that a centre must sign in order to achieve accreditation can
be found at www.yachting.org.au. The agreement is for three years and following this
time the centre will be required to apply for full reaccreditation. However please note
that, at the beginning of each financial year, centres will be required to sign a renewal
form.
A centre wanting to be accredited as a Discover Sailing Centre should apply to their
State Association.
1. A new centre wanting to apply for accreditation should complete and forward
the application / agreement. The State Association will then conduct an onsite
review to assess the application.
2. An existing Discover Sailing Centre will be required to complete and forward
the renewal form, together with a copy of their most recent Annual Review
Yachting Australia Operating Standards and Guidelines for Discover Sailing Centres
Page 12 of 24
Last edited: 27/02/2014
(that needs to have taken place within the previous Discover Sailing / financial
year).
Initial Review
During this initial review, the facilities, equipment and all boats should be available.
The Principal and the instructor in charge must be present. The Principal and the
State Association representative will complete the Centre Review Report Form
(YAR), which the State Association will retain.
The Annual Centre Accreditation Fee includes an annual review.
If the centre does not fulfill the requirements for accreditation a second visit may be
required, for which the State Association may charge an extra fee.
Accreditation
When the State Association is satisfied and has signed off the initial review they will
forward an electronic copy of the signed the application/agreement and the review
form to Yachting Australia who will then formally accredit the centre as a Discover
Sailing Centre.
This accreditation will be for three years, concluding at the end of the third financial
year. It is a requirement to renew every financial year by signing a renewal form (to
be provided by the State Association) and having had a satisfactory annual review
conducted during the previous year.
Annual Review
Beyond the initial review, centres will be visited, at least on an annual basis and may
be visited at any time, with or without prior notice. The annual review should be
conducted when courses are being delivered, so tuition is can be observed.
If centres subsequently apply for accreditation for additional programs, courses or
activities, beyond those in the application, another review of the equipment for that
additional program will be necessary. If a further visit is required subsequent to the
annual review, the State Association may charge a further fee.
The Principal must make every effort to facilitate the annual review. The State
Association may recommend that a re-review is carried out to check on satisfactory
implementation and in this case an additional fee may also be charged.
Note: The State Association will not carry out a full safety audit, only a sample
of activities and systems until they have confidence in the centre’s safety
management. Full safety audits remain the responsibility of the centre and the
Principal.
Yachting Australia Operating Standards and Guidelines for Discover Sailing Centres
Page 13 of 24
Last edited: 27/02/2014
Withdrawal of Accreditation
If an annual or any review shows that a centre does not comply with these Standards
and Guidelines, the centre has 30 days to remedy the non-compliance and seek a rereview. Where this is not achieved the accreditation as a Discover Sailing Centre will
be withdrawn until compliance is again demonstrated.
Yachting Australia and its State Associations reserve the right to withdraw
accreditation for contravention of the rules or spirit of accreditation. A centre wishing
to appeal against the decision may bring their case to a Yachting Australia tribunal
that will be convened for this specific purpose.
Accreditation of a centre will automatically be revoked on a change of Principal,
discontinuance of active instruction, insolvency, or sale of the centre. A re-review of
Standards and Guidelines will take place with the new Principal before recognition is
reinstated. Where an unqualified Principal, e.g. the proprietor, employs a qualified
instructor to meet the requirements of accreditation, such accreditation will not
automatically lapse on a change of that instructor. The Principal must, however,
inform the State Association immediately of any such change.
The State Association will ensure the Principal clearly understands the requirements
of Yachting Australia as to the proper running of any Yachting Australia Discover
Sailing Centres.
Note: The safety of all staff and participants, as well as the standard of tuition,
is the responsibility of the centre and the Principal.
Other Matters
Conflicts of Interest
The centre agrees, that for the duration of its Yachting Australia accreditation, not to
endorse, promote or offer a third party’s similar products or services, including but
not limited to programs for sail and powerboat, which conflict or compete with any
Yachting Australia trademarks, products or services, including Yachting Australia
programs, without the prior written approval of Yachting Australia. (This does not
apply to centres that are recognised RYA/YA Yacht Training Centres operating and
delivering training in Australia.)
Own boat tuition
A centre may offer tuition in a participant’s own boat. The Principal should ensure the
boat conforms to the conditions of accreditation and the equipment listed in these
guidelines. It should be noted that the owner is the skipper and is responsible for
Yachting Australia Operating Standards and Guidelines for Discover Sailing Centres
Page 14 of 24
Last edited: 27/02/2014
insuring the craft. All conditions of accreditation concerning shore-based facilities,
course length, safety equipment etc. apply. The principal should ensure that vessels
are seaworthy and suitable for courses. Where applicable, liaise with State and
Territory Marine Safety Agencies to ensure that own boat tuition is permissible
(generally permitted under the National System). A centre may not, however, offer
only own boat tuition.
Administration
Administration is extremely important to the safe, efficient running of a centre. The
administration that Yachting Australia requires is to protect the centre, its staff and its
users. Documentation should be brief, clear and representative of what actually
happens in the centre to ensure that all activity is both safe and enjoyable. Centres
are reminded of the following:
A. Booking or enrolment forms should include information about any pre-course
requirements and emergency contacts. Centres should seek a medical
declaration as part of the participant enrolment. If the centre is aware that a client
has a medical condition, they should seek further advice from the client and
advise instructors accordingly. The information sent out to participants should
stress that illness or medical conditions need not necessarily prevent the
participant from taking a full part in the course, but the Principal or instructor must
be aware of any potential problem.
B. If a participant is in any doubt about their fitness and ability to take part in a
practical course, their General Practitioner should be able to advise. It is strongly
recommended that all those participants in the sport should be able to swim. It is
essential the instructor in charge of a course should know if any participants on
the course are non-swimmers.
C. A booking form duly signed six months before a course may not be up to date
when the participant arrives for the course. A system for verifying the authenticity
of the details of form when the participant arrives is advised. A sign-on process
could help confirm participants’ current details, as they arrive on site.
D. The centre should have a written record of the qualifications of all instructors,
which should be available for inspection. Centres must have a system in place
that ensures all instructors are current and hold all of the necessary
qualifications, including adherence to relevant state legislations. Checking
qualifications of instructors is available through the myCentre system.
E. Centres working with children and young people under 18 should have a child
protection policy and procedures in place. It is the responsibility of the Principal to
comply with the relevant state legislation for instructors working with children.
More information on this can be found within the Yachting Australia Member
Protection Policy.
F. An incident and accident book must be kept, and should be reviewed regularly
and action taken to prevent repetition of injuries. In the case of a serious incident
Yachting Australia Operating Standards and Guidelines for Discover Sailing Centres
Page 15 of 24
Last edited: 27/02/2014
or near miss, the Principal must contact their State Association, who can provide
advice and assistance. An online incident report is available on the Yachting
Australia website:
http://www.yachting.org.au/sport-services/safety/reporting-major-incidents/
With regard to accidents, operating procedures should include:
1. Emergency procedures and contact details
2. The location of first aid equipment
3. A list of qualified first-aiders and details of who is responsible to check and
replenish first aid kits
4. Procedures, understood by all staff and Instructors, for reporting and
recording accidents (accident book)
5. Reporting procedures and prompt response to accidents.
6. Serious accidents on board commercial vessels must be reported to the
relevant authorities. A copy must be sent to the State Association.
7. In the event of a serious accident there should be a procedure for
a. contacting next of kin
b. managing any media contact
G. A record of near misses should be kept. These are events which could have
caused an accident or injury. The record should be similar in content to an
accident book entry. Such incidents should be reviewed regularly and lessons
learned recorded with actions taken to avoid reoccurrence.
H. All instructors should undergo induction training in the running of the centre and
should sign that they have read and understood the centre’s Operating and
Safety Procedures.
I.
A system for receiving and reviewing customer feedback and complaints should
be in place. Every effort should be made by the Principal/instructor in charge to
resolve any complaints as quickly as possible. Receipt by a State Association or
Yachting Australia of an unreasonable number of substantiated complaints
against a centre may result in suspension/withdrawal of the centre’s
accreditation.
J. The advertising, brochures, booking forms, joining instructions etc. should be
clear and accurate. They must not give any misrepresentation, either by
implication or omission that the facilities, services and courses offered,
qualifications of instructors or level of Yachting Australia recognition differ from
those implicit in the recognition granted. The centre must not use the Yachting
Australia or Discover Sailing trademark to advertise any activities other than the
specific Yachting Australia programs for which it is recognised. The centre must
not display or use any Yachting Australia trademarks until its recognition is
confirmed by Yachting Australia. Third party organisations offering courses on a
centre’s behalf must state which Yachting Australia centre is providing the
program. The centre must not do or omit to do anything which will or may
damage the image and reputation of Yachting Australia, or Yachting Australia
qualifications or which may otherwise bring the Yachting Australia into disrepute.
Yachting Australia Operating Standards and Guidelines for Discover Sailing Centres
Page 16 of 24
Last edited: 27/02/2014
myCentre
Centres can benefit from the use of myCentre in the following ways:
 Administration of all participant records.
 Generation of participant attendance lists (perfect to use as sign-on sheets).
 Emailing or SMS course participants at any time such as to send out
reminders.
 Use of the online registration facility to avoid paper work and data entry, and
additionally the payment facility if a centre does not have other arrangements.
 Promotion of the course to the public on the Discover Sailing and State
Associations websites.
The myCentre database is fully privacy compliant, regularly backed up and
participant records are not accessible to other centres.
A User Manual for the use of myCentre appears on the myCentre homepage.
Centres must record every participant in every course in myCentre:
 On enrolment and within 48 hours of the course commencement in order to
be covered by the Yachting Australia Personal Accident Insurance, if they are
not a registered club member
 To mark the participant on completion of the course in order to receive both:
o The registered electronic certificate and
o The Yachting Australia Satisfaction Survey.
and in order for their qualification to be automatically recorded in their
mySailor record.
Online Shop Access
As a Discover Sailing Centre you will be entitled to discounted rates for purchasing
publications through the Yachting Australia online shop. Access to publications at the
discounted rates will be available the day that recognition is granted to the
administrators/users (maximum of 3) listed on the centre application/agreement.
The Principal may request changes to the administrators listed to order discounted
publications by writing to the State Association, who will then request this from
Yachting Australia. The Discover Sailing Centre must not share their user ID or
password with a third party. If a user leaves the centre at any point, the Principal
must inform the State Association in writing in order to update the user access.
Insurance
The centre should make sure it is fully aware of the legal liabilities and
responsibilities arising from its Yachting Australia activities both ashore and afloat.
Yachting Australia Operating Standards and Guidelines for Discover Sailing Centres
Page 17 of 24
Last edited: 27/02/2014
It is the centre’s responsibility to ensure that adequate insurance covering all of its
activities is in full force and effect while the centre is recognised by Yachting
Australia. All the centre’s activities and boats should be covered, so it is important to
disclose all business activities to the insurer.
Please note that where a centre charters a vessel the Principal must ensure that
adequate insurance is in place.
Public Liability Insurance
As a minimum, the Centre must hold public liability cover of at least AU $10 million
for its activities both afloat and ashore. This protects the Centre in the case of an
accident.
In addition to this Yachting Australia qualified instructors and coaches, who have a
current revalidation date, upon completion and payment of their annual renewal, will
be covered by Yachting Australia’s Liability Policy. This provides coverage to the
Instructor or Coach where there is a breach of a duty of care which causes an injury,
not just an accident. This covers Instructors whilst delivering a Yachting Australia
program and course at an accredited Discover Sailing Centre, or a Yachting Australia
qualified coach operating at an affiliated club.
Insurance Assistance
Yachting Australia’s official insurance provider is Mastermans Insurance Brokers who
can also provide assistance to a centre. Mastermans Insurance Brokers can be
contacted via 03 9658 9200 or http://www.masterman.com.au/. A full guide to
Insurance appears on that site.
Yachting Australia Operating Standards and Guidelines for Discover Sailing Centres
Page 18 of 24
Last edited: 27/02/2014
ATTACHMENTS
1.
2.
3.
4.
Powerboat and Safetyboat Fleet Checklist
Dinghy Fleet Checklist
Keelboat Fleet Checklist
Windsurfer Fleet Checklist
Yachting Australia Operating Standards and Guidelines for Discover Sailing Centres
Page 19 of 24
Last edited: 27/02/2014
Attachment 1: Powerboat and Safetyboat Fleet Checklist
Except in the case of heavy displacement craft, kill cords must be fully functional
and must be fitted and used at all times when under way. A spare kill cord should
normally be carried for emergency use.
Ideally both planing and displacement powerboats should be available. For
powerboating, the level of recognition will depend on the number and type of
powerboats available, the availability of suitably qualified instructors, the type of
water and the operating area of the centre.
Powerboats operating at sea must be maintained and operated to the same
standards as safety boats and powerboats must carry the equipment list specified for
safety boats with the exception of the towing bridle.
The provision of equipment to be carried in the safety boat on inland waters may be
dependent on the operating area and should be addressed in the centre operations
procedures.
The centre should ensure that trolleys/trailers are suitable for the craft and in a
serviceable condition. The trolleys should enable the craft to be safely launched,
recovered and maneuvered on land without risk of injury to the users.
Boats must fully comply with Marine Regulations with regard to operation and
equipment.
The checklist overleaf outlines additional areas which should be checked.
Yachting Australia Operating Standards and Guidelines for Discover Sailing Centres
Page 20 of 24
Last edited: 27/02/2014
Powerboat & Safety Boat Fleet
Are boats suitable for the courses offered and/or safety boat duties provided?
Are kill cords and switches fitted, serviceable and used at all times?
Do all boats have identification, and registration with Marine Safety Agency / AMSA?
Required Equipment
(all items securely stowed)
Anchor with chain or line
Bilge pump (electric or manual) if boat has covered or closed underfloor bilges
Bucket or Bailer (each with lanyard)
Chart, map or chart section of local area (laminated or in waterproof map case)
Compass (or hand bearing compass) if teaching any Powerboat Courses
Distress Flares (hand-held Red x 2 & Orange smoke x 2; or NSCV requirements)
EPIRB (beyond 2NM) 406mHz, in date, registered – ‘Dummy’ version if only required for
teaching
Fire bucket (unless bucket already carried or bailer is suitable)
Fire extinguisher Australian Standard compliant (in good condition and serviced annually)
First Aid Kit, waterproof (minimum contents 2 of each: large wound dressings, medium
wound dressings, triangular bandages)
GPS fixed or handheld (chart plotter also suitable) if teaching Powerboat Handling
Knife, sharp (suitable for cutting spectra if providing safety boat cover)
Lifejackets, serviceable, sufficient quantities, and suitable for activities and hours of
operation
Navigation lights (as required under IRPCS), operational
Paddles or oars
Throwing line and/or towing line (towing line to suitable for safety boat cover provided)
Torch, waterproof and buoyant
Towing bridle (if safety boat cover or teaching safety boat operator), suitable strong points
VHF fixed or handheld radio, and frequency/distress call stickers (27mHz may be suitable
in areas with no VHF coverage)
Engines are securely mounted and maintained
Throttle/gear change mechanisms positive and reliable
Outboard engines capable of being locked down or raised / tilted / trimmed
Outboard engines must not be capable of being started in gear
Fuel tanks must be securely fastened to boat
Steering mechanism free, and easy to use
Hydraulic steering system checked for leaks
Teaching Aids: dinghies and windsurfer are available (if providing Safety Boat Operator)
Teaching Aids: navigation tools, tide tables, whiteboard, dummy flares/EPIRB
Propeller guards (where fitted) are secure and serviceable – recommended item only
Yachting Australia Operating Standards and Guidelines for Discover Sailing Centres
Page 21 of 24
Last edited: 27/02/2014
Attachment 2: Dinghy Fleet Checklist
Boats should be equipped so that it is possible to teach each of the relevant syllabi
according to the conditions. In the case of high performance boats there should be a
rigging guide for different wind strengths.
Boats should fully comply with the Yachting Australia Special Regulations (Part 2) for
off the beach boats. The checklist below outlines additional areas which should be
checked.
Where an item is linked to the Yachting Australia Special Regulations (Part 2), the
relevant reference number is provided in brackets, for further clarification.
Dinghy Fleet
Are there suitable boats in sufficient numbers available for the levels of course offered?
Hulls are well maintained, in a good state of repair, watertight and with all fittings and toe
straps in good working order.
Buoyancy which is not in built is enclosed in compartments or securely fastened (3.01.3)
Boats that do not have enclosed self-draining have 1 x bailer or pump (3.04.1)
Pumps and bailers not permanently attached to the hull, are secured to the hull (3.04.3)
Running rigging are well maintained and in a good state of repair.
There are no protruding strands in wire rigging and all shroud pins and split rings are taped.
Masts are either be watertight or self-draining
Unstayed masts are securely attached to the hull (3.02.2)
Rudder, centreboard or dagger board are in good condition
Centreboards are securely fastened to the hull, by lanyard, bolt, or pin (3.03.1 a.)
Sailboards are fitted with a friction device (3.03.1 b.)
Tillers and rudder blades which are not permanently fastened to the rudder stock/s are
securely fastened to them (3.03.2, 3.03.3, 3.03.4)
Sails should be in serviceable condition for the courses on offer
The boats must be suitably equipped (e.g. anchors, paddles etc.) for the operating area
Instructors/staff are aware of the location for attaching a towline to the boat (3.05.1)
If the boats are to be towed or left on moorings, a painter is attached to a suitable strong point
on the boat
Has the centre assessed the risk of entrapment under an inverted boat?
Do centres offering trapeze work have a range of harnesses in suitable sizes?
Are boats used for spinnaker courses suitably equipped?
Are adequate basic simulators available and in good condition?
Yachting Australia Operating Standards and Guidelines for Discover Sailing Centres
Page 22 of 24
Last edited: 27/02/2014
Attachment 3: Keelboat Fleet Checklist
The centre should have access to sufficient vessels in order to teach all courses for
which it is recognised. These boats should be equipped so that it is possible to teach
each of the relevant syllabi according to the conditions.
In order to deliver this program effectively and safely, only responsive, self-righting
boats may be used. Normally these would be tiller steered small keelboats with
internal ballast.
Provision should be made for teaching how to reef afloat. Boats must be suitably
equipped (e.g. anchors, paddles etc.) for the operating area and comply with Marine
Regulations.
The checklist below outlines additional areas which should be checked
Keelboat Fleet
A minimum of one vessel per centre are capable of being reefed.
Hulls are well maintained, in a good state of repair, watertight and with all fittings in good working
order
Cockpit is self-draining at all angles of heel, and hatches are above water when heeled 90 degrees
Running rigging is well maintained and in a good state of repair.
Standing rigging is well maintained and in a good state of repair.
Rig is sufficient to run Symmetric and Asymmetric Spinnakers (for racing courses).
All halyards are of sufficient length and in good condition.
Sheets are also of sufficient length and appropriate diameter and material
The rudder is in good condition
Main, jib and spinnaker (where applicable) sails should be in serviceable condition for the courses
on offer.
At least one vessel is fitted with bowsprit and a pole
Each vessel has a boathook
Each vessel has mooring lines
Each vessel has fenders (minimum of 2)
Each vessel has oars/ paddles
Each vessel has servicable winches (if fitted)
Each vessel has deck fittings, blocks, shackles (serviceable)
Each vessel has 2 x stour buckets with lanyard
Each vessel has an anchor and ground tackle as suitable with bitter end attached
Each vessel has a bilge pump- (fitted or manual)
Each vessel has a water resistant floating flashlight
Each vessel has a sharp knife, sheathed, and fitted near cockpit
VHF fixed or handheld radio, and frequency/distress call stickers (27mHz may be suitable in areas
with no VHF coverage)
Each vessel has lifebuoy fitted on transom with drogue if there is a suitable place to fit it
Each vessel has a retrieval method of crew from water
If an outboard is fitted, it must have with sufficient power
If petrol is carried, it is stowed on deck in a suitable container
If petrol is carried or a stove is fitted the vessel has a fire extinguisher/ fire blanket (as applicable)
Gap is secured by lanyard (not polyester) and is replaced annually
If lifelines are fitted they are made of uncoated stainless steel wire
Each vessel has a medical kit stored in a waterproof container on board and includes:
Disprin; Disposable gloves; Crepe bandages; Band-Aids; adhesive tape; Antiseptic skin solution;
Alcohol swabs, Solugel; Sunscreen 30+SPF; s/s Scissors; Safety pins; CPR mask or face shields
Yachting Australia Operating Standards and Guidelines for Discover Sailing Centres
Page 23 of 24
Last edited: 27/02/2014
Attachment 4: Windsurfing Fleet Checklist
The centre should have access to sufficient equipment in order to teach all courses
for which it is recognised. There must be a complete set of suitable equipment for
each participant.
Boards and rigs should be stored in a secure and safe manner and should be easily
accessible for instructors and participants. Instructors should be trained to lift and
carry equipment and participants should be supervised as necessary.
If basic simulators are available they should be in a good state of repair, stable, low
and well damped. The board should have a good non-slip surface and be securely
attached to the simulator. The simulator should be positioned so that participants will
not injure themselves or others should they fall off.
The checklist below outlines additional areas which should be checked.
Windsurfing Fleet
Are there sufficient equipment to teach all courses offered?
Hulls are in good condition, free from punctures and water logging
Boards have an effective and securely fixed deck plate, an effective non slip surface and an
effective and safe facility enabling it to be towed
Dagger boards, if fitted, are correctly adjusted and held secure in the up and down positions
whilst free to move in between and free from sharp edges
Fins are appropriate to the boards, courses, prevailing conditions and free from sharp edges
Masts are in good condition, of suitable length, bend characteristic and material for the sail and
should be watertight
Mast bases operate correctly and are well maintained.
Sails are in a presentable, useable condition, free from holes and tears
Board and rig joints (UJ) are in good condition, free from wear and tear.
The downhaul is free to move and cleat effectively.
Any quick-release system operates correctly, is well maintained and is capable of use by
participants whilst afloat.
Booms have a secure clamp that does not slip while in use, yet may easily be adjusted to suit
the height of the user.
Boom is the correct length for the sail and the grip surface must be in overall good condition
Harness lines are in sound condition and are fitted to booms (for centres offering advanced
courses).
Downhaul and outhaul ropes are in a sound, unfrayed condition and be of a suitable diameter for
the fittings being used.
Uphauls are fitted on all rigs, for beginner rigs a thick rope with elastic return should be used.
Are adequate basic simulators available and in good condition?
A range of harnesses are available in suitable sizes for centres offering advanced courses.
Yachting Australia Operating Standards and Guidelines for Discover Sailing Centres
Page 24 of 24
Last edited: 27/02/2014