Whaleboat
Handbook
2015/16
This document contains:
OVER VIEW
Safety Information, Team Captain
Responsibilities, Rower Responsibilities,
Training Procedures & Helpful tips,
Forms to completed, Race Day Information
SAFETY MANAGEMENT PLAN (SMP)
Team Captain : _________________
Table of contents
Handbook Introduction 2015/16 .................................................................................... 4
Safety Information ......................................................................................................... 5
Safety Management Plan (SMP) ................................................................................ 5
First aid kits................................................................................................................ 5
Life Jackets ................................................................................................................ 5
Incident Reporting ......................................................................................................... 6
Team Captain Responsibilities ...................................................................................... 6
Getting Your Team Started – FAQ’s ............................................................................. 6
How do I register a team? .......................................................................................... 7
How many people do I need?..................................................................................... 7
What do I do if I don’t have a team? ......................................................................... 7
When is training? ....................................................................................................... 7
Who is the Training Supervisor? ............................................................................... 7
Is training compulsory? .............................................................................................. 7
If we don’t want to race, can we still train? ............................................................... 8
Rower Responsibilities .................................................................................................. 9
Training Procedures ....................................................................................................... 9
Check list for the START of training ........................................................................ 9
Check list for the END of training ........................................................................... 10
Helpful Tips for rowers ................................................................................................ 10
Race Day Information .................................................................................................. 11
Race Information and Guidelines for February 21st 2016 ....................................... 11
Contact Persons ............................................................................................................ 15
General Enquires ...................................................................................................... 15
Committee Members to Contact .............................................................................. 15
Safety Management Plan Introduction 2015/16 .......................................................... 17
Definitions.................................................................................................................... 17
Acknowledgements ...................................................................................................... 17
Background .................................................................................................................. 17
Governance .................................................................................................................. 18
Overview of Safety Management Plan ........................................................................ 18
Flagstaff Hill Whaleboat Details ................................................................................. 18
Marine Act and Regulations in relation to Personal Flotation Devices (PFD) ............ 19
Responsibilities for safe use of whaleboats ................................................................. 20
Safety Officer ............................................................... Error! Bookmark not defined.
Breaches of SMP.......................................................................................................... 22
Whaleboat Handbook 2015/16. Written & prepared by Flagstaff Hill.
Updated September 2015 . Page 2
Safety Audit ................................................................................................................. 22
Risk Assessment .......................................................................................................... 23
What is Risk Assessment? ....................................................................................... 23
Safety Resources .......................................................................................................... 24
Boats and Equipment ................................................................................................... 25
Incident Reporting ....................................................................................................... 26
When Incidents Occur.............................................................................................. 26
If First Aid is Rendered............................................................................................ 26
Competency ................................................................................................................. 26
Physical Condition & Medical Considerations ........................................................ 27
Sweeps ..................................................................................................................... 27
Safety at races and other organised events .................................................................. 28
Rescue Boat(s) ............................................................................................................. 29
Appendix 1 – Safety Audit Form ................................................................................. 32
Appendix 2 – WCC Risk Matrix System ..................................................................... 35
Appendix 3 – Risk Assessment.................................................................................... 36
Appendix 4 – Competency Assessment and Theory Assessment ............................... 42
Appendix 5 – Conditions Assessment ......................................................................... 45
Appendix 6 – Local Waterway / Location Map for training ....................................... 46
Forms ........................................................................................................................... 47
Whaleboat Handbook 2015/16. Written & prepared by Flagstaff Hill.
Updated September 2015 . Page 3
Handbook Introduction
Welcome to Whale Boat season 2015/16!
We have an exciting season ahead with many teams and community groups
scheduling training in the Flagstaff Hill whale boats between September 2015
and April 2016.
The feature event of the season will again be the Australian Whale Boat
Racing Championships to be held on Sunday 21st February 2016.
 Teams will need to register and complete the required forms prior to their
first training session, and will be compulsory for all rowers to have
completed activity consent form, competency assessment, theory
assessment before rowing or using the boats. This is the team captain’s
responsibility.
 Each captain will need to attend an induction prior to commencing training.
This is to ensure all teams get the correct and same information from the
committee. Dates and times for these will be communicated prior to
season start. It will also be the session to pay the training fee ($70) and
collect the keys to the boats.
 Team Captains are required to ensure their teams comply with the
regulations and guidelines as outlined in the handbook, including new
safety requirements. One handbook will be provided to each team,
however more are available should you need and it is published on
www.flagstaffhill.com
The handbook is designed with the basic premise – Safety of rowers is
our primary focus and we only have 3 wooden whale boats (damage to
the boat may stop its use for all of the summer season)
There are important areas that all rowers must familiarise themselves with:
Safety
Incident reporting Team Captain responsibilities
Getting your team started Rower responsibilities
Training Procedures
Contact persons
Forms
Safety management plan (SMP)
Stay in touch by following our Facebook Page ((Australian Whale Boat Racing
Championships) and check www.flagstaffhill.com
Whaleboat Handbook 2015/16. Written & prepared by Flagstaff Hill.
Updated September 2015 . Page 4
Definitions
For the purpose of this guidebook the following terms will apply:


Team Captain is the person who is taking the responsibility for the team’s
safety, administration, training, etc. This person does not have to be a
rower.
Rower will be used to describe any person in the boats, including the
rowers, sweep, passengers and Team Captain.
Safety Information
Each year we review the Safety Management Plan (SMP) in consultation with
Marine Safety Victoria and Warrnambool City Council.
It is important that all Team Captains read and understand the Safety
Management Plan, and that key messages of this plan are communicated to
their rowers. Don’t assume the rules are the same!
Safety Management Plan (SMP)
It is compulsory that all Team Captains read this document and be familiar
with its contents.
 Pay particular attention to the competencies which must be met by each
rower (this is both a competency assessment including being able swim
50m, boat familiarity, etc...) and short theory assessment.
Safety is paramount for our training and race day. We must meet this SMP
as approved by Marine Safety Victoria, or face the possibility of the boats not
being allowed to be used.
First Aid Kits
There is a clearly marked green first aid kit located in the oars cupboard under
Proudfoots balcony.
It is provided for use by rowers pre, during and post training. If you do use
items, please ensure you notify the Flagstaff Hill Maritime Village so that
supplies can be restocked for other teams.
 The first aid box should always remain locked in this cupboard.
Life Jackets
 Wearing Life Jackets for training and raceday is compulsory.
 There are jackets supplied in the storage locker – they should returned
there and locked away. Any jacket that is damaged again should be
reported to FHMV.
 All jackets are Personal Floatation Devices (PFD) Rating 2 (PFD2).
Whaleboat Handbook 2015/16. Written & prepared by Flagstaff Hill.
Updated September 2015 . Page 5
Incident Reporting
 All incidents and near misses must be reported to FHMV.
 This can be done with the Public Injury / Incident Report (see Forms
sections in the back of this handbook). This form can also be used to
identify any damaged equipment or issues that you believe the committee
and/or Flagstaff Hill should be aware of.
 Team Captain must ensure these forms are completed and submitted.
To do this please follow the steps below:
 Complete the relevant details on the Public Injury / Incident Report form
 Tear the form out of the hand book
 Provide the form to FHMV Reception immediately after your session has
been completed. The reception at Flagstaff Hill is open 9am – 10pm
(minimum). Relevant committee members can also be contacted and
details are in the contact section of this handbook.
If you use all of your forms, please contact the committee to gain more copies,
or photocopy more as required.
Team Captain Responsibilities
Team Captains are responsible for a range of administrative duties, including
the following:
 Registering your team and anyone who is filling in rowing
 Ensuring all rowers have individually registered using the Activity Consent
Form (see Forms sections in the middle of this handbook).
 Ensuring all rowers meet the requirements of the SMP
 Briefing your team on safety and details included in this handbook
 For the set up and pack down of boats pre and post training
 Coordinating your team for trainings and on race day (if applicable)
 For the key that provides access to the oars, boats and first aid
Whaleboat Handbook 2015/16. Written & prepared by Flagstaff Hill.
Updated September 2015 . Page 6
Getting Your Team Started – FAQ’s
Below are a few frequently asked questions that should assist new and
experienced teams. Of course the committee will assist with any other
information or questions that you have.
Fun = Safe People/Safe Boat
How do I register a team?
 Simply complete the Team Registration 2015/16 Season Form (see
Forms sections in the back of this handbook).
 This registers your team and the Training Coordinator will make contact
with you to confirm or organise a training time.
 The Team Captain will then need to ensure they are familiar with their
responsibilities prior to commencing training, and have ensured all
competencies detailed in the handbook and SMP are met.
How many people do I need?
You need six people (five rowers and one sweep), a consistent training day
and time each week to train. We recommend trying to find seven or eight for
your team as rowing with under six in the crew is quite challenging.
What do I do if I don’t have a team?
If you are an individual wanting to join a team, please let the Training
Coordinator know. Each year we assist several teams come together in this
way, or provide rowers to teams that for one reason or another have dropped
in numbers.
When is training?
 This needs to commence no earlier than 6am and conclude no later than
8pm
 Training sessions will be available from October 2015 to April 2016.
 Training sessions are allocated as one hour in length unless otherwise
agreed and start and end on the hour.
 All training is on the Hopkins River, Warrnambool.
Who is the Training Supervisor?
 This is an experienced whale boat rower who is able to assist you with
setting up the boat, rowing technique, the different length oars, timing, etc.
 They are a person that the Training Coordinator will assign to your team.
 There is no cost for this and they will be with you for up to three sessions,
however many teams find that one or two sessions are sufficient.
 Experienced teams do not need to utilise them
Is training compulsory?
 Training is compulsory for those wishing to race in the Australian Whale
Boat Racing Championships in February 2016.
 Your team must complete three x one hour training sessions.
 The Training Coordinator will review booked training times and may
require that you complete more training before allowing you to join race
day.
Whaleboat Handbook 2015/16. Written & prepared by Flagstaff Hill.
Updated September 2015 . Page 7
For new teams, your Training Supervisor must advise the committee that your
team is suitable to race. For experienced teams, you still must complete three
training sessions, however these do not need to be supervised.
If we don’t want to race, can we still train?
Yes, a range of community groups and schools will also utilise the boats,
however not compete in the races. Also many groups will continue to use the
boats after race day, through until the end of day light savings.
What is the cost in 2015/16?
As in many events, insurance and equipment costs continue to place a large
cost on FHMV. The event can only continue if we all contribute to offsetting
these costs.
 Use of Boat – Training Fee $80(to allow access to the boats for up to
six months)
 Race Day Fee - $30.
Whaleboat Handbook 2015/16. Written & prepared by Flagstaff Hill.
Updated September 2015 . Page 8
Rower Responsibilities
Similar to the Team Captain, each rower is responsible for understanding and
adhering to a range of safety guidelines as detailed in the SMP, and the
information provided in this handbook.
Rowers are also responsible for the set up and pack up of the boats for
training, and assisting as required to ensure spectators and rowers are kept
safe.
 Reporting of incidents and maintenance is extremely important, and so too
personal care such as wearing suitable footwear, having good sun
protection and keeping hydrated.
Training Procedures
Once your team is registered you will have been allocated a training time by
the Training Coordinator. If you wish to change this, please contact the
Training Coordinator to do so.
Your Team Captain is provided with a key that provides access to the storage
area and boats.
Oars are stored in the boats using the securing chain.
Training is a one hour session and must commence on time and end on time.
Teams who commence late, must still finish on the hour at the end of their
allocated time to prevent other teams starting late.
Any maintenance that is required on the boats must be reported to the
committee so that works can be carried out as soon as possible.
Check list for the START of training
 Ensure all rowers of the boat have completed their individual Activity
Consent Form (See forms section in the back of the handbook) and are
familiar with the SMP.
 Ensure all rowers have completed the Competency Assessment and
Theory Assessment (Appendix 4).
 Ensure weather conditions are suitable for rowing. Strong winds and
rough waters will make rowing very challenging due to the size of the
boats. Conditions should be checked by the Team Captain prior to
commencing training and if unsure, training should be cancelled, or
rescheduled. The Conditions Assessment (Appendix 5) should be used for
this. Consider the risk to both people and boats!!
 Check the oars for any damage and ensure they are in working order.
 Ensure life jackets are worn by all rowers.
 Ensure the first aid kit is in the oar cupboard.
 Check the boats for any damage and ensure they are in working order.
Be sure to check for glass in the bottom of the boats as vandals have
previously thrown glasses into the boats. This is why sturdy footwear is
recommended for rowing.
Whaleboat Handbook 2015/16. Written & prepared by Flagstaff Hill.
Updated September 2015 . Page 9
 Ensure the tin bucket and scoop is in the boat. These can be used to
assist in bailing out any large amounts of water in the bottom of the boats
prior or during training.
 Two rescue tubes should be in each boat.
Check list for the END of training
Based on your team being the last to train:
 Ensure a team member is holding onto the boat or it is secured to the ramp
– well clear of the concrete wall.
 Carefully slide each oar out of its rollick (U shape holder) and slide back
into the oar cupboard.
 Ensure the two rescue tubes are still in the boat and tucked away. Ensure
the tin bucket and scoop is in the boat.
 Ensure all life jackets are either passed onto the next team, or securely
locked away in their storage location.
 Remove all personal items.
 Move the boat gently around to be locked up. This will take a minimum of
two persons and the boat should not hit up against the concrete at all
during this time.
 Lock the boat using the rope and chain system.
 Check the first aid kit is in the cupboard and lock the oar cupboard.
Helpful Tips for rowers
 Rowing for the first time, teams with new rowers, or teams who need a
refresher, will all find the following section helpful. It’s designed to make
your training and racing easier and more enjoyable.
Oar locations – this is often debated between teams; however the committee
has provided an easy to use guide. Each oar is numbered 1 to 5 which
corresponds with the numbers 1 to 5 on the boats. Therefore oar 1 goes into
position marked 1 on the edge of the boat, 2 into 2, and so on. Teams may
choose not to follow these markings if they wish.
Clothing and footwear – We recommend wearing good quality sturdy
footwear for rowing. Clothing should be casual sports attire, and preferably
providing good sun protection to your skin.
Gloves – Some people choose to wear gloves, it is personal preference.
Loose fitting gloves may be difficult to use, however good fitting stretch
gardening gloves many rowers find prevent blisters.
Jewellery and personal items - Given the nature of the sport, wearing rings
will often cause blisters and calices. We recommend that if you choose not to
wear your jewellery that it is securely locked away in a safe location. Likewise
items of clothing, shoes, etc… left on shore during training are the
responsibility of you, and are exposed to general public. There are no
provisions at Proudfoots to secure jewellery or personal items.
Weather conditions – It is best to use the ‘Conditions Assessment’ check list
as detailed in the SMP (Appendix 5). This will assist you in determining any
Whaleboat Handbook 2015/16. Written & prepared by Flagstaff Hill.
Updated September 2015 . Page 10
possible risks including those associated with weather, water conditions and
water traffic.
If there are any concerns, or any rowers feel that the conditions are too
dangerous to row, training should be cancelled or rescheduled.
Keeping your key safe – We highly recommend that you attach a floatation
device to your key to prevent the worry of it being dropped and lost into the
Hopkins. You are able to purchase these from boating and fishing stores.
Alternatively a champagne cork and a securely tied piece of string should
work well!
Race Day Information
Race day is a fun and exciting day for competitors and spectators. In 2015
well over 500 people attended the event, and a further 150 rowers competed.
It is a full day event and a highlight of Warrnambool’s community events
program.
Specific information about the day, race times, finals, etc… will all be provided
in the weeks leading up to the day directly to the Team Captain.
There will be food and drinks available for purchase at the event, and we
recommend that teams bring their own shade covers.
Race Information and Guidelines for February 21st 2016
This sport brings the rich heritage of the region to life enabling a range people
to access training on the stunning Hopkins River, Warrnambool, culminating in
an exciting round of racing at the Australian Whale Boat Championships in
February 2016.
Team registration is open in September 2015, and registration closes 31
January 2015. Late entries will be considered.
The following rules have been established for the races to ensure your safety
and to build the competition of the day.
Boat Details
Approx Weight
Rowers
Other details
700 kgs
5 Rowers – 1 Sweep, each with an oar
All rowers sit on unsecured rowing platforms in the boats.
All boats are weighed prior to race day to ensure even weight. All boats will be
pressure washed prior to race day to ensure no weed or algae build up has
affected the drag of boats. If an uneven weight is measured, weights will be
installed in the lighter boat(s) to ensure they are of equivalent weight.
Race Course
Teams will compete on an ‘out and back’ course requiring the teams to
complete at least one turn. The course will be set close to the banks of the
Hopkins River making it easy viewing for guests from the main event area and
will be marked approx. three weeks prior to the race day. The course will
Whaleboat Handbook 2015/16. Written & prepared by Flagstaff Hill.
Updated September 2015 . Page 11
commence at the ski club end, travel south towards the bridge, turn, and
return with a finish line directly in front of the boat ramp between the ski club
and Proudfoots.
Race Day Celebrations – 21st February 2016
The banks of the Proudfoots Boathouse will be the main event area that will
allow guests to view the whaleboats in action, and enjoy a range of land
based activities.
Rules of the Australian Whaleboat Racing Championships: 21st
February 2016
Note: Relevant sections applies to all teams training in the 2015/16 season
1) Nominating Teams and Team Captains
 All teams must submit a completed and signed Team Registration 2015/16
season form including your team name, captain name, email contact,
names of your team members and category;
 Every team member must complete a separate Activity Consent Form;
 Each team may nominate two spare team members that form part of the
nominated team;
 Teams may not substitute any members without the approval of the race
committee;
 Each team must nominate a Team Captain who will be responsible for the
safety and behaviour of their crew, and for distributing information from the
race committee. This person is also responsible for the completion of
Activity Consent forms, Competency Assessment, Theory Assessment
and ensuring safety regulations as outlined in the Whale Boat Handbook
2015/16 are understood and adhered to by all rowers;
2) Whale Boats and equipment
 All whale boats and equipment remain the property of Flagstaff Hill
Maritime Village (FHMV);
 Race teams must be approved by FHMV for use of the FHMV Whale
boats;
 The equipment must be cared for in a responsible manner;
 The equipment may not be altered in any way;
 No adhesives are to be applied to any part of the boat or oars;
 The oar sleeves and collar are not to be moved;
 Tying in with rope, buckles, use of seat cushions or blocks is permissible.
The use of any of these must not damage the boat in any way, nor delay
the start of a race. Please check with Race Committee for approval.
3) Race Fee
 No team may begin practicing until the Team Registration 2015/16 season
form is properly completed and submitted along with the training of race
fee. These fees are determined by the Race Committee each year and is
non-refundable;
 Teams with incomplete paperwork or fees owed will not be allowed to
participate in the race or training unless approved by the Training
Coordinator;
Whaleboat Handbook 2015/16. Written & prepared by Flagstaff Hill.
Updated September 2015 . Page 12
 The fee for 2015/16 is $80 for training and $30 for race day.
4) Participant Certification
 Each participant must achieve accreditation from the Team Captain / Race
Committee before official race day;
 The committee will provide each team with a mentor that will assist crews
in gaining skill in crewing their whaleboat;
 Each participant needs to gain three hours on water experience before
they can participate in any official race session;
 The committee reserves the right to withdraw the certification of any
participant should it not be satisfied the participant has the required skills
in the whaleboat;
5) Sweep Certification
 The sweep is critical to the safe operation of the whaleboat. The Race
Committee will need to be satisfied the sweep has the required skills to
maintain the course of the whaleboat;
 Sweeps must be Certified and show skills of being able to control the boat;
 The sweep must be at least 16 years of age or under direct supervision of
an experience sweep for the entire race;
 For open categories, the sweep must be male or female according to the
category entered. For mixed, the sweep is considered one of the six
rowers in the boat, and therefore can be male or female, with at least 3
females required in the boat for a mixed team. For junior teams entering
an open category, the sweep may be of either sex (an over age sweep
may be considered by the Race Committee).
 Whaleboat sweep must keep the boat within the race course area.
6) Rowing Rules
 All teams must adhere to these rules at all times while using FSH Whale
Boats and/or equipment;
 All participants must adhere to all reasonable directions of the Race
Committee.
7) Race Practice Sessions
 The committee will determine the official race practice sessions;
 No team may access any of the whale boats racing equipment without the
consent committee or outside of their assigned training times;
 Teams may only go out during their specified practice times and must take
the boat they are assigned, and must return this to shore at the end time of
their session regardless of their start time.
8) Smoking/Drinking
 Smoking and/or consuming alcoholic beverages while in the boats is
strictly forbidden.
 It is the rower’s responsibility to ensure they are 0.00 blood alcohol
content.
9) Race Course
 The Race Committee will determine the race course to be used;
Whaleboat Handbook 2015/16. Written & prepared by Flagstaff Hill.
Updated September 2015 . Page 13
 Full race briefings will occur at each race day that will include briefing of
the Safety Management Plan and highlight particular areas for rowers to
be aware of.
10) Race Rules: Spirit of the Race
 Australian Whaleboat Racing Championships aim to provide a safe
environment for all participants;
 Participants must act in good spirit and be consistent in providing a safe
and enjoyable event for all;
 The aim is to have an enjoyable and safe event. Rowers are expected to
display this attitude and show respect to their fellow competitors.
11) Start, Collisions & Turns
 Rolling starts are permissible, however if the team crosses the line during
the countdown, and prior to the horn sounding, they will have 40 seconds
added to their race time;
 A whaleboat that causes a collision with another whaleboat or a buoy will
have 40 seconds added to their race time;
 In the case of two boats colliding on a straight run, the aft boat will be
considered at fault;
 In the case of two boats colliding on a turn, the boat judged to be out of
their lane will be considered at fault;
 A boat that turns the wrong way around a buoy will have 20 seconds
added to their race time. The first turn is port – see race map for full
details;
 The start will be signalled by a 30 second warning, 15 second warning &
then a final sound for the start of the race.
12) Infractions
 If you break the rules your team may be disqualified from the race;
 Directions of the ‘on water’ race official should be followed and their
decision is final.
Whaleboat Handbook 2015/16. Written & prepared by Flagstaff Hill.
Updated September 2015 . Page 14
Contact Persons
The following people should be contacted should you need further
information, have questions about the boat, or need to discuss training or race
details.
General Enquires – Flagstaff Hill Maritime Village
 whaleboatracing@warrnambool.vic.gov.au
 03 5559 4600
All general enquires should be directed to our committee email address.
As the event is coordinated by a community based committee and not solely
Flagstaff Hill staff, please be aware that our reception staff will not be familiar
with training schedules and specific information about the event. They will
however be able to take your details and direct them to the relevant
committee member.
Committee Members to Contact
Peter Abbott – Manager Flagstaff Hill Maritime Village
 0427 820 872
 03 5559 4600
 pabbott@warrnambool.vic.gov.au
Jan Barkla
 03 5559 4600
 jbarkla@warrnambool.vic.gov.au
Kyme Rowe – Whaleboat Training Coordinator
 03 5559 4952
 krowe@warrnambool.vic.gov.au
Whaleboat Handbook 2015/16. Written & prepared by Flagstaff Hill.
Updated September 2015 . Page 15
Whale Boat
Safety
Management
Plan
2015/16
Whaleboat Handbook 2015/16. Written & prepared by Flagstaff Hill.
Updated September 2015 . Page 16
Safety Management Plan Introduction 2015/16
This Safety Management Plan (SMP) applies to the operation of whaleboats
owned by Flagstaff Hill Maritime Village (FHMV)
These boats are used for educational and recreational purposes, as well as
competitions.
It is expected that FHMV operational staff, officials of the Australian
Whaleboat Racing Championships, boat sweeps, Team Captains, and any
other users of the boats be familiar with the contents of this SMP.
The SMP through continual improvement should represent good practices for
the management of hazards and safety issues.
This SMP is to be used in conjunction with the waterway authority
requirements such as Marine Safety Victoria, Parks Victoria, Local
Governments and Harbor Masters.
Definitions
FSH
MSV
WCC
SMP
means Flagstaff Hill, Warrnambool
means Marine Safety Victoria
means Warrnambool City Council
means Safety Management Plan
Acknowledgements
This SMP template has been developed in consultation with and approved by
Marine Safety Victoria.
Background
Flagstaff Hill was established in 1975 and operates as Victoria’s leading
maritime outdoor village on the Great Ocean Road.
In the 1980’s a number of wooden whaleboats were constructed so as to be
operated for whaleboat races held in conjunction with the WUNTA Community
Festival.
FHMV maintains these whaleboats through a qualified wooden boat
shipwright facility within the village area. In 2008 the whaleboat racing was
reinstated as an offsite activity of FHMV.
FHMV seeks to operate these whaleboats across a range of educational and
recreational programs, along with continuing to use them for whaleboat racing
each year.
To manage any perceived risks this SMP has been developed using the
Rowing Victoria Safety Plan Template and aims to design a safety framework
that meets the defined risks of using the FHMV Whaleboats.
The SMP considers the following in its design:
Whaleboat Handbook 2015/16. Written & prepared by Flagstaff Hill.
Updated September 2015 . Page 17
 The Flagstaff Hill whaleboats have a good level of stability and are solid,
well maintained vessels;
 Oars are well-maintained and buoyant;
 Training and racing traffic patterns are established and documented;
Governance
FHMV operates as a business unit of Warrnambool City Council who own and
operate the whaleboats. FHMV have three whaleboats in their working fleet.
Overview of Safety Management Plan
Following is a step by step summary of what is required to be done
to comply with this SMP. The details of each step are contained through this
document.






Appointment of a Safety Officer
Conduct a Safety Audit of operations, facilities & equipment
Conduct a Risk Assessment of operations and environment
Comply with the requirements of this document
Ensure members are affiliated and registered
Ensure Team Captains understand their role in the SMP, and the safety
requirements of their rowers and team, as per the Whaleboat Handbook
2015/16
Flagstaff Hill Maritime Village Whaleboat Details
Nothing in these notes shall in any way limit the individual’s responsibility for
the outcome of their own actions.
It is critical that this document is read and understood before
completing this section.
Observance and Review
FHMV SMP must be readily available for all users to access, it must be easily
accessible at FHMV and provided to all Team Captains.
Users Name:
Address:
Suburb/Town:
State:
Post:
Tel (w):
Email:
Website:
Flagstaff Hill Maritime Village
89 Merri Street
Warrnambool
VICTORIA
3280
03 5559 4600
flagstaffhill@warrnambool.vic.gov.au
flagstaffhill.com
Whaleboat Safety Officer: Peter Abbott
Purpose :
To safely operate three working whale boats for use by
members of the public on the Hopkins River precinct during Day Light Savings
period (once safety and maintenance checks have been carried out and
Whaleboat Handbook 2015/16. Written & prepared by Flagstaff Hill.
Updated September 2015 . Page 18
completed). This culminates in the
Championships in February each year.
Australian
Whaleboat
Racing
Storage Area Details:
Name:
Proudfoots Boathouse
Address:
2 Simpson St
Suburb/Town: Warrnambool
State:
VICTORIA
Post:
3280
Training Waterway Details:
Name:
Hopkins River
Type (i.e. lake, river):
River
Description (i.e. open spans, tidal): Wide River channel with ocean entrance
to the south, and ski lane, popular fishing, kayaking and rowing course
upstream.
Hazards associated with this water way have been identified in the Risk
Assessment (See Appendix 3).
Marine Act and Regulations in relation to Personal
Flotation Devices (PFD)
This section briefly outlines the Marine Act and Regulations that relates to the
use of Personal Flotation Devices (PFD). Refer to
www.marinesafety.vic.gov.au for specifications.
For the purpose of the following regulations “Formal Training or Competition”
means training or competition conducted under the direction of an
incorporated club, organization or association that is affiliated with the
respective peak body where supervision of participants and appropriate
rescue services are provided, or under a SMP approved by Marine Safety
Victoria.
Wearing of Personal Flotation Device (PFD)
FHMV acknowledges that the general guidance to users of rowing boats is as
follows:
All operators and occupants of a rowing boat or canoe or kayak engaged in Formal
Training or Competition on inland waters, not being formal training or competition of
which any part is conducted on water forming rapids, are exempt from PFD wearing
requirements specified in Regulation 232.
This exception is based on the rowers being covered by one of these
conditions:
 communications have been established with Harbor Control prior to
entering the area defined above and;
 each occupant wears a PFD Type 1, 2 or 3 at all times or;
 are accompanied by an inshore rescue boat or powered rescue craft in
accordance with the specifications of Surf Life Saving Australia or;
Whaleboat Handbook 2015/16. Written & prepared by Flagstaff Hill.
Updated September 2015 . Page 19
 are accompanied by an appropriate powered rescue craft carrying:
o lifesaving appliances sufficient to support all persons that may
be required to be to rescued or;
o PFD Type 1, 2 or 3 sufficient to support all persons that may be
required to be rescued.
o A Safety Management Plan approved by Marine Safety Victoria;
FHMV acknowledges these rulings, and have therefore established with
Marine Safety Victoria that all rowers and occupants of the boat must be
wearing an approved PFD2 as supplied by FHMV, during all training sessions.
If persons own their own PFD or can source one, they may choose to wear
this on the basis it meets Australian Standard Regulations and complies with
Marine Safety Victoria’s regulations & the Marine Act. Failure to do so may
result in the individual or team being disqualified from training and
competition.
Our SMP ruling for the wearing of life jackets is applicable for all training
sessions. Life jackets will be required on race day.
Responsibilities for safe use of whaleboats
All persons involved in rowing activities, whether that is on or off the water,
have a responsibility for safe rowing. This section outlines the following:
 Flagstaff Hill responsibilities
 Safety Officer responsibilities
 Individual Users responsibilities
FHMV Responsibilities
FHMV also has a responsibility under this SMP to provide for the safety of
rowers and provide the relevant information and guidance so that they can
comply with the laws and regulations that govern the safe operation of vessels
in Victoria, and in doing so:
 Maintain liaison with the various regulatory authorities relevant to this SMP
 Provide guidance and rules to promote a safe environment for rowing
 Monitor incidents and accidents to track trends, dangerous situations and
practices
 Provide advice and rule reviews based upon its findings
 Educate its users to provide a safe environment
 Assist users to assess risk and audit their compliance with this SMP.
 Assess and reduce the risks involved in their activities to their members,
participants, other water users and the general public
 Provide safe premises and equipment (including vehicles and trailers), for
their activities on both water and land
 Actively implement the SMP
 Provide their users with guidance and training in safe practices.
 Review their practices and advice to rowers in the light of their experience
and guidance and that from FHMV
Whaleboat Handbook 2015/16. Written & prepared by Flagstaff Hill.
Updated September 2015 . Page 20
Safety Officer Responsibilities
Safety Officers have a responsibility under this SMP to provide for the safety
of competitors in their training and racing and ensure that they comply with the
laws and regulations that govern the safe operation of vessels in Victoria, and
in doing so:
 Assess and reduce the risks involved in their activities - to their
participants, other water users and to the general public
 Actively implement the SMP
 Review their practices and advice to members in the light of their
experience and guidance and that from FHMV
Individual Rowers Responsibilities
Individual Members have a responsibility to: Act in a manner that will not compromise the safety of themselves, rowers,
other water users and the general public.
 Assess risks and base their decisions on such assessments.
 Actively respond to the whaleboat handbook & SMP.
 Inform Safety Officer, Team Captains and other users of any medical
condition that may present a risk to themselves and/or their crew.
 In the case of rowers under 18years– parents have a duty to advise those
in charge of any condition or circumstance that may impact on the safety
of the junior or any other rowers or participants.
Safety Officer Checklist
Following is a checklist of the duties to be undertaken by Flagstaff Hill Safety
Officer:
 Be fully conversant with the Whaleboat SMP.
 Conduct a safety audit (annually as a minimum) of the Flagstaff Hill
facilities, equipment and operation, towing of boats etc... using the
standard audit form (Appendix 1).
 Assess the risks to the Flagstaff Hill whaleboats both on and off the water
in accordance with the SMP by using the WCC Risk Assessment Matrix
(Appendix 2).
 Implement recommendations of the risk assessment (Appendix 3) in
accordance with the Flagstaff Hill Whaleboats SMP.
 Supply each Team Captain with a copy the Whaleboat Handbook 2015/16
which includes with SMP.
 Maintain an incident log through WCC OH&S department and
complete/assess incident forms as required.
 Report to FSH on day-to-day safety issues.
 Develop contacts with local river users group, and similar bodies, to assist
in understanding and resolving areas of conflict between users.
 Establish and maintain contact with MSV.
 Take due regard of any advice or direction provided by any relevant water
authority relating to local water or weather conditions and amend risk
assessments and safety plans accordingly.
 Exercise authority, in conjunction with the FHMV personnel to suspend
boating activities where the conditions are seen to be unsafe.
Whaleboat Handbook 2015/16. Written & prepared by Flagstaff Hill.
Updated September 2015 . Page 21
Safety Briefings
The Safety Officer shall provide safety updates to Team Captains and users
as required, and ensure that Team Captains are briefed prior to commencing
training as to their role in safety, understanding the SMP and being able to
provide this information to their team.
The Safety Officer will also conduct or coordinate a safety briefing on race day
which highlights changes due to exemptions from MSV.
Breaches of SMP
Breaches of the SMP are to be identified and advised to offenders:
 first instance verbally
 If no immediate correction is taken then in writing and specify a period for
correction.
Penalties may be imposed. These penalties may include suspension from use
of the whaleboats, or potential banning of future use.
Safety Audit
An audit to check FHMV level of safety in its operations, facilities, equipment
etc… must be undertaken at least once a year by the Safety Officer in
conjunction with a risk assessment (Appendix 3)
The WCC Risk Officer will be involved in the Risk Assessment and provide
advice on its completion.
The results and recommendations arising from an audit should be presented
to the Manager Flagstaff Hill Maritime Village.
Where necessary, amendments will be made to the SMP as a result of the
safety audit. These amendments should be documented with completion
dates recommended, and forwarded to Team Captains if during training
season.
Safety Audit Form
The Safety Audit Form will be used to complete the review (Appendix 1)
Whaleboat Handbook 2015/16. Written & prepared by Flagstaff Hill.
Updated September 2015 . Page 22
Risk Assessment
Risks are reduced by precautions/control measures, which when adopted
make the risk smaller. FHMV uses Warrnambool City Council Risk
Assessment Matrix (Appendix 2)
What is Risk Assessment?
Risk assessment is a process carried out to identify potential safety hazards
and to ensure that each is properly understood. Further it is to check whether
existing safeguards and emergency plans are adequate to reduce risks to a
tolerable level, or whether more action is needed. Finally it is to highlight
intolerable risks to determine steps to overcome or eliminate them. Risk in
this context arises from the likelihood of an accident occurring as a result of a
hazard.
Risk assessments are only worthwhile if action is taken on the findings.
Assessments need to be carried out by competent persons with knowledge of
the activities, and locations, being assessed.
When developing the SMP it is necessary to use the risk assessment matrix
rating each of the activities that is to be held against the suggested
hazard/risk list.
As there are many different aspects of whaleboat rowing, it is important to
consider as many as possible, drawing in other parties with relevant
knowledge to assess risks within their particular areas of expertise.
Examples:
 a minor event might be an incident occasioning material equipment
damage.
 a moderate event would be collision with minor injury to a person.
 a catastrophic event could be a collision with serious injury to a person.
Items of note for the Safety Officer to consider in the yearly risk
assessment include:
 Hazards that have been encountered in the past during boating activities.
 Recent changes to waterway that may add or remove hazards.
 Relationship between waterways and boating activities.
 Supervised levels of rowers involved.
 Competency levels of the rowers involved.
 Time of day and year.
 Visibility.
 Water temperature.
 Weather conditions.
 Water obstacles and pollution.
 Water depth, turbulence and currents.
 Other vessel traffic.
 Conditions of the bank
 Conditions of the entry / exit point.
 Ease of access to recover casualties.
 Road access and condition at the site.
Whaleboat Handbook 2015/16. Written & prepared by Flagstaff Hill.
Updated September 2015 . Page 23
 Ability to monitor activities from the bank.
 Condition of equipment.
Damaged equipment is a hazard to everyone, the user in the first instance
and to those around who may be affected by it or who have been forced into a
dangerous rescue.
FHMV must identify and document their control measures that will prevent a
person drowning in the event of an unforeseen event.
Considerations as to whether rowers are a hazard to themselves
include:
 Can they swim and what tests are carried out to ensure they can?
 Are they properly clothed for the conditions they will encounter?
 Are all rowers and occupants of the boat wearing an approved lifejacket
and it is fitted correctly?
Safety Resources
Subject to the completed risk assessment there are a number of requirements
which FHMV will need to have in place in order to comply with this SMP.
 Safety Aids and Rescue Devices including two rescue tubes in each boat.
Additional safety aids will be determined by the Risk Assessment and in
consultation with Marine Safety Victoria.
 Personal Floatation Device (PFD), including it being compulsory for all
occupants of the boat to have a correctly fitted PFD2. Further information
regarding all PFD’s as stipulated in the Marine Regulations 1999 can be
found at the Marine Safety Victoria website www.marinesafety.vic.gov.au;
 First Aid Kit supplied and accessible on shore. This is a WCC supplied first
aid kit and will be checked and refreshed in line with other Flagstaff Hill
first aid kits, or additionally as required. A full listing of items in these kits is
available through Flagstaff Hill.
 Emergency Services Information displayed in the storage area.
 Map/Signboard of waterway supplied in the SMP and displayed in the
storage area. Further race course details will be provided in February, and
displayed on race day.
 Level 2 First Aid providers will be on hand and noted through formal Race
Days.
Whaleboat Handbook 2015/16. Written & prepared by Flagstaff Hill.
Updated September 2015 . Page 24
Boats and Equipment
Boat Buoyancy
When well maintained the whaleboats are extremely buoyant, in fact
extremely difficult to submerge in any manner.
Oars
Oars used are wood bind carbon fibre and as such as again extremely
buoyant. The sweep oar is wooden.
Visibility
Whaleboats are not permitted for use in poor visibility or dark conditions and
as such no safety provisions have been made for these poor conditions. This
is the responsibility of the Team Captain.
Pre use check list
Before any outing is undertaken, equipment should be checked to ensure that
it is in safe working condition. Each Team Captain should use the ‘Check list
for the START of training’ in the Training Procedures section of the Whaleboat
Handbook 2015/16. All rowers should be familiar with this and assist where
needed in completing this check.
Storage
Boats and equipment should be stored in an orderly fashion to minimize
damage to persons or equipment.
Maintenance
Any damage to equipment must be notified immediately to as member of the
whaleboat committee. Damaged equipment must be “quarantined”, with the
nature of the damage clearly marked, to ensure that it is not used by others
unaware of its condition.
Transportation
Ensure that the towing of boats is undertaken in safe manner and in
compliance with the current Vic Roads trailer regulations. This requirement is
in the context of the trailers being maintained by the Warrnambool City
Council Fleet Manager.
 Check that adequate insurance cover is in place.
 No whaleboat can be towed without the approval of Manager – Flagstaff
Hill and the driver of the vehicle must only be approved by the Manager –
Flagstaff Hill.
 Any persons towing the boats must do so in compliance with WCC vehicle
use policy.
Whaleboat Handbook 2015/16. Written & prepared by Flagstaff Hill.
Updated September 2015 . Page 25
Incident Reporting
FHMV shall maintain an incident reporting log which is available for inspection
upon request.
An incident report form is available in the Whaleboat Handbook 2015/16 and
is the Warrnambool City Council form.
Keeping a log/record of incidents will assist to identify trends from various
activities.
The observation of trends and unforeseen incidents form a
valuable part of any future risk assessment.
When Incidents Occur
All incidents involving injury or significant in nature shall be reported in writing
in accordance with Section 20 of the Marine Act 1988 and as per the
instruction of the Whaleboat Handbook.
Any incident that requires the completion of an incident report may result in
the boat be suspended from use until given the ‘all clear’ by the Safety Officer.
If First Aid is Rendered
 If the accident requires first aid treatment then the name of the first aider
should also be recorded, and the treatment given.
 Also any details of hospitals, doctors or any other agency, involved should
be included.
Competency
All those involved in rowing require a level of competency appropriate to their
involvement in the sport whether that be as a participant (competitive or
recreational rower), sweep or passenger.
When obtaining the required competency proper instruction from the Team
Captain must be provided in accordance with the Whaleboat Handbook
regulations and advice. Junior and beginners should receive particular
attention.
In all activities each individual must consider their own safety and the safety of
those around them. Individuals must accept responsibility for their own
actions.
Competency Assessment and Theory Assessment for rowers
The Flagstaff Hill Safety Officer will determine the competency of rowers
through the provision of the Competency Assessment and Theory
Assessment (Appendix 4) which all Team Captains must complete with their
rowers.
It should be noted that many users are first time users. These rowers should
be provided with the ability to increase competency through the provision of
supervised training over three one hour lessons, and more or less by
agreement.
Whaleboat Handbook 2015/16. Written & prepared by Flagstaff Hill.
Updated September 2015 . Page 26
Physical Condition & Medical Considerations
It is a participant’s responsibility to notify the Safety Officer of any condition
which may affect their ability to be involved or which may increase their risk of
accident/incident. This may include physical conditions, disabilities, illness
and/or medical conditions.
Avoidance of the activity must be the first consideration at all times in relation
to potential medical issues.
Participants
Every rower (competitive and recreational) is required to complete the Activity
Consent Form (see forms sections of this handbook) prior to undertaking any
activity. This is the opportunity to provide any details that are required to make
an assessment of a rowers competency and will in turn determine the level of
supervision and rescue support required.
Refer to Appendix 4 for details on the Competency Assessment and Theory
Assessment, which must be completed before any rower enters a whaleboat.
Activity Consent Form
Participation Activity Consent form (see Forms Section) must be signed
before any rowers enters a whaleboat.
Supervision and Rescue Support for persons with identified higher risks
A risk assessment by the Flagstaff Hill Safety Officer will determine whether
any additional measures are required (rescue, first aid, etc...) whilst this
person is on the water.
Sweeps
A sweep is a member of the boat crew and classified for this purpose as one
of the rowers, and must complete all requirements associated with training
and event as like any users of the boats.
The sweep may alternate, however we recommend that if the sweep has not
previously been in this position, additional coaching is sought from the
committee. There are no weight restrictions on this position, however when
Team Captains are making decisions on this position, consideration should be
given to rowers with good strength and sound coordination.
Steering the boat
Steering a boat is a highly responsible role. The sweep must:
 Maintain a proper look-out by sight and hearing so as to make a full
appraisal of the situation and of the risk of collision.
 Learn and use simple and concise commands for boat control both off and
on the water. Be able to use them correctly, clearly and instructively.
 Understand and observe local navigation rules, and audible and visual
signals given by others with whom the water is shared. This information
should be sought from Marine Safety Victoria if you are not familiar with
them.
 When visiting unfamiliar water, take particular care to learn of local
hazards, weather peculiarities, and local rules of navigation.
Whaleboat Handbook 2015/16. Written & prepared by Flagstaff Hill.
Updated September 2015 . Page 27




Be conversant with safety and rescue arrangements available in the case
of accident.
Recognise and respect the rights and needs of other water users.
Watch out for unexpected floating objects.
Report water hazards.
Safety at races and other organised events
The primary consideration of every committee member is to care for the safety
of competitors, officials, other water users and the public at large.
Medical Requirements
Competitions that have large numbers of participants of varying degrees of
competence must:



Ensure that appropriate medical support is accessible.
Ensure a First Aid Post and suitably qualified First Aiders are available in
the boating area with easy access both to the water and to the road
network during all hours that safety cover is required for the event or
activity (i.e. when rowers are off the water).
Identify and notify local hospitals of events being held.
Safety Officer
All race days and other similar events held by the Flagstaff Hill shall appoint a
Safety Officer to their committee.
The duties of this Safety Officer will be to:
 Advise on the observance of the SMP.
 Implement the control measures listed in the risk assessment for the
event.
 Be responsible for making available to officials and competitors the SMP
which sets out the procedures to be followed by competitors and officials in
the case of incident and emergency and monitor its observance.
Competition consultation
No competition or other similar event shall take place without full and prior
consultation between the organisers, the river water authority as is
appropriate, and the relevant regulatory/rescue services (such as police,
ambulance services, life-saving and first aid organisations) so as to ensure
that adequate safety measures are in place.
Medical Officer
Where a Medical Officer has been appointed, they shall be responsible for
ensuring that medical support is accessible in the manner set out below.
Where a Medical Officer is not appointed it is the responsibility of the Safety
Officer to liaise with appropriate bodies and organisations prior to the activity
and with the doctor/paramedic/first aid officers on the day.
Whaleboat Handbook 2015/16. Written & prepared by Flagstaff Hill.
Updated September 2015 . Page 28
Rescue
Adequate means of rescue shall be provided. Safety boats must be suitable
for the task, be properly equipped and be crewed by persons trained in boat
handling. Provision for rescue shall be available throughout the event and
during periods of authorised practice prior to racing commencing.
Race Course
The race course shall, wherever possible:
 Be marked with clearly visible buoys.
 Provide warning notices to other water users of the event and advising the
actions expected of them – prominently displayed at the river precinct and
circulated prior.
 Provide diagrams of the race course and its immediate surroundings
highlighting local hazards, traffic rules, launching areas - prominently
display at the river precinct or circulated prior.
 Prominently display important telephone numbers and the location of First
Aid facilities at event.
Suspending Racing
The Safety Officer, member of the committee or of Manager Flagstaff Hill shall
have, and exercise, the authority to suspend racing, or training should they
believe the conditions are unsafe.
Rescue Boat(s)
For whatever purpose a boat is used, drivers must be licensed as required by
the Marine Act. The driver and other occupants of a water vessel shall act in
accordance with the Marine Act and carry the relevant safety equipment as
per the requirements of Marine Safety Victoria.
Boats are often used for coaching, marshaling and rescue purposes
throughout many water sports. In the event of whaleboat racing, a
support/rescue boat will only be provided on race day unless otherwise
directly by the Safety Officer.
These guidelines are intended for boat drivers as an introduction to some of
the principles of safety provision using powered boats. By accepting the role
of rescue boat driver, the driver is taking on responsibilities towards others.
The primary aim of all rescue boats and drivers is the safety of all water users
within their area of responsibility for the duration of the rowing activity. If the
boat is being used in secondary duties such as marshaling or coaching, then
these duties must give way to this primary aim of safety should the need arise.
The rescue boat driver should:
 Be aware of relevant section in this SMP.
 Be trained in boat handling, and where possible resuscitation and First Aid.
 Recover capsized rowers without worsening their condition.
 Quickly and safely get injured rowers to medical attention.
 Not become a victim themselves.
Whaleboat Handbook 2015/16. Written & prepared by Flagstaff Hill.
Updated September 2015 . Page 29
Communications
Due to wind, engine noises, movement of the boat etc… the driver needs to
be close, speak clearly and ideally stopped. Two way radio to shore on race
day will be provided, as well as a loud hailer to communication with boat
users, both including and excluding those in the event.
Boat Handling Skills
Boat handling skills need to be second nature so that the driver can
concentrate on the task of rescue without having to think about how they are
going to get the boat into the correct position.
Rescue Boat(s)
The boat(s) used for rescue should be:
 Quick, maneuverable and designed so as not to create an excess wash.
 Have adequate capacity to be capable of carrying injured athletes back to
the boathouse quickly and safely.
 Properly equipped and well maintained.
Boat Driver Checklist
The following is aimed at all water users. Although aspects may not seem
relevant a boat and driver may be called upon to cover a wide range of
different venues
Before going afloat check:
 Personal and boat buoyancy.
 Alternative means of propulsion.
 Anchor and chain.
 Bucket, bailer and bilge pump.
 Fuel, including reserve tank.
 First Aid kit or availability of one on shore.
 Fire extinguisher.
When afloat:
 Keep a good look out at all times.
 Don’t overload boat.
 Obey speed limits.
 Keep to the right in rivers/narrow channels.
 When crossing a channel, cross quickly at right angles.
 Keep clear of swimmers, fishermen, canoeists, dinghy sailors and
windsurfers.
 Think how the boats wash will affect others.
 Look out for deteriorating weather conditions.
Recovering Rowers from Water
The following precautions must be observed when recovering a rower from
the water:
 The only time high-speed maneuvers should be used is when making the
approach to the scene of trouble or when taking injured rowers back to the
landing stage.
Whaleboat Handbook 2015/16. Written & prepared by Flagstaff Hill.
Updated September 2015 . Page 30
 The final approach to the rower in the water must be made carefully and at
low speed, in order to weigh up the situation and to avoid alarming the
person in the water.
 On approach talk to the person in the water. Make sure they understand
what you intend to do and what you want them to do.
 Approach from downstream/downwind, as appropriate, in order to maintain
control over speed and steering.
 When bringing the rower aboard, the engine must be turned off so that no
injury can be inflicted by the propeller blades.
 Should the rower require urgent First Aid treatment this should be applied
before moving off. Where there are several rowers in the water, priority
should be given to any injured or younger rowers.
Whaleboat Handbook 2015/16. Written & prepared by Flagstaff Hill.
Updated September 2015 . Page 31
Appendix 1 – Safety Audit Form
This will be completed on an annual basis or as necessary by a member of
the committee. Completing this form is not the responsibility of individuals or
the Team Captain.
Manager Flagstaff Hill will review the audit and return a copy which specifies
acceptance or remedial action.
Where non-compliance is noted, the person completing the audit will be asked
to provide a reason for non-compliance, and to either rectify immediately or
within an agreed time period. Cancellation of training and events may occur
as a result of this audit.
Name of person completing Safety Audit Form: _____________________
Date of Audit: ___________
Whaleboat Handbook 2015/16. Written & prepared by Flagstaff Hill.
Updated September 2015 . Page 32
Safety Officer
Has a person been appointed to act as Safety Officer?
Is the Safety Officer approved by Manager Flagstaff Hill?
Is Safety a regular item for review by Flagstaff Hill?
Emergency Services
Is a list of vital telephone numbers for emergencies services clearly displayed at the
river precinct?
Is the location of the nearest telephone clearly displayed?
Is there a fully stocked and readily accessible first aid kit?
Is there a routine for regularly checking?
If items are used, is there is a system in place for the replacement of these items?
Are the following available and ready to hand?
Lifebuoys or rescue tubes
Bailing Bucket
Lifejackets
Insurance
Does Flagstaff Hill have Public Liability Insurance to cover its committee and
members, third parties and the Safety Officer for a claim by a third party for damage or
injury to property or persons on and off the water?
Equipment
Is there a person designated, or a system clearly identified, to ensure that all rowing
equipment is kept in good order?
Is there a “quarantine” system by which unsuitable equipment is isolated to avoid its
use?
Is there a damage repair log/system?
Navigation Rules
Are rules for the safe use of local waters with supporting diagrams as necessary,
including referencing danger spots, prominently displayed?
Is there a formal method of advising/instructing rowing members on the observance of
local navigation rules, and of ensuring that they fully understand implications?
 Yes
 Yes
 Yes
 No
 No
 No
 Yes
 Yes
 No
 No
 Yes
 Yes
 No
 No
 Yes
 Yes
 Yes
 No
 No
 No
 Yes
 No
 Yes
 No
 Yes
 Yes
 No
 No
 Yes
 No
 Yes
 No
Is there an accident log available for inspection at all times?
Is a log of boats in and out and planned outing times available?
In case of accident involving damage or injury, is a report sent to Flagstaff Hill by the
person involved or witness to the incident?
Health & Safety
Has swimming competency been checked?
Has it been clearly identified to Team Captains that all rowers must complete the
Activity Consent form, Competency Assessment and Theory Assessment prior to
commencing the activity?
 Yes
 Yes
 No
 No
 Yes
 No
 Yes
 No
 Yes
 No
Supervision
Are training sessions offered with additional assistance and coaching if required /
requested?
 Yes
Local Conditions
Do any particular hazards exist to the activity or location, and if yes, is there a risk
assessment in place to counteract or lower the risks?
 Yes
Is there a check list for rowers to use to assist in identifying hazards, including
physical, weather, etc...?
 Yes
 No
 No
 No
Whaleboat Handbook 2015/16. Written & prepared by Flagstaff Hill.
Updated September 2015 . Page 33
Non-compliance has been observed against the following item references,
and action is required:
Category
Rectification required
By when
Action Required:
Until such time as these non-compliances are corrected, no water based
activities are to be undertaken from these premises unless advised by the
Manager of Flagstaff Hill.
Name:
___________________________
Signature:
___________________________
Date :
___________
Safety Officer Name :
___________________________
Signature :
___________________________
Date :
___________
On the satisfactory completion of an audit, this document forms the certificate
of compliance.
Whaleboat Handbook 2015/16. Written & prepared by Flagstaff Hill.
Updated September 2015 . Page 34
Appendix 2 – WCC Risk Matrix System
LIKELIHOOD
(chance hazard may
happen)
CONSEQUENCE - HUMAN
(outcome if hazard did
happen)
CONSEQUENCE FINANCIAL
(outcome if hazard did
happen)
1
Expected
A
Death
Loss above $1,000,000
2
Often
B
Long Term
Disability/Injury
Loss $500,000 to $1,000,000
3
Sometimes
C
Hospital
Admission Injury
Loss $250,000 to $500,000
4
Rarely
D
Medical
Treatment Injury
Loss $50,000 to $250,000
5
Highly Unlikely
E
First Aid Injury
Loss up to $50,000
Select one category from each of the columns listed above that best
represents the outcome if the potential hazard was actually realised.
Consider the outcome in terms of “maximum credible” not “absolute worst
case”.
RISK RATING MATRIX
Plot both selections (e.g. 3 & C) onto the Risk Rating Matrix to determine the
Risk Rating for the identified hazard.
A
B
C
D
E
1
High
High
High
Medium
Medium
2
High
High
Medium
Medium
Low
3
High
Medium
Medium
Low
Low
4
Medium
Medium
Low
Low
Low
5
Medium
Low
Low
Low
Low
Determine the level of risk associated with the identified hazard, prioritise and
implement the relevant controls.
The Risk Assessment in Appendix 3 has been created to meet the
requirements of Marine Safety Victoria, and uses their matrix system. The
systems are similar in their use of 1-5 ratings.
Whaleboat Handbook 2015/16. Written & prepared by Flagstaff Hill.
Updated September 2015 . Page 35
Appendix 3 – Risk Assessment
Note : Appendix 3 format and layout is a direct insertion from the Marine
Safety Victoria EVENT APPLICATION FORM, Sections B & F
Consequence
Insignificant
First aid
Likelihood
Likely
Event may occur
Moderate
Event may occur once in 3 events
Unlikely
Event may occur once in 10
events
Rare
Event occurs only in exceptional
circumstance
5
Moderate
Hospitalisation
Major
Single death/ multiple injuries
Catastrophic
Multiple deaths
1
2
3
4
5
Moderate
5
Significant
10
High
15
High
20
High
25
Low
4
Moderate
8
Significant
12
High
16
High
20
Low
3
Moderate
6
Moderate
9
Significant
12
High
15
Low
2
Low
4
Moderate
6
Moderate
8
Significant
10
Low
1
Low
2
Low
3
Low
4
Moderate
5
x
Almost Certain
Event expected to occur
Minor
Medical treatment
4
3
2
1
SAFETY RISK ASSESSMENT FOR EVENT
Risk Assessment
Residual Risk Assessment
Consequences of a hazard occurring without and control measures
Consequences of a hazard occurring following implementation of control
measures
Hazard / Risk
List all hazards below and/or
use the provided list.
Control Measure
Please List Control Measures
to be in place to reduce the
risks identified.
Consider: What can happen,
how it can happen given a
number of different
circumstances, or in conjunction
with another mishap. Consider
the likelihood of it occurring.
4
1
4
 Training is conducted in a wide space
 Race day includes a boat on the water to
direct boats and reduce risk of collision
as well as a wide lane.
2
1
2
1
3
3
 Rescue tubes are installed in the boats to
assist rowers rescue other crew if
needed
 6 oars in the boat also act as support and
rescue devises also
 Life jackets are compulsory for all rowers
in the boat and are provided free of
charge by the committee and stored in a
locked area. All teams have access to
this.
 If the boat is taking on water, there is a
bail bucket in each boat.
 The nature of the river ensures the
rowers are no more than 200m to a
shore/bank area.
 The crew will be numbered off according
1
3
3
Whaleboat Handbook 2015/16. Written & prepared by Flagstaff Hill.
Updated September 2015 . Page 36
(Multiply Like & Cons)
Risk Rating
If the Risk Rating remains in the
Moderate, Significant, or High
categories, then additional control
measures are required.
Consequence
Collision
Is there potential for a collision –
vessel/vessel, vessel/structure, vessel/bank,
vessel/person, fixed or floating object,
overhead obstruction/wires, submerged object
Capsize
Is there potential for capsize/swamping

Likelihood
Any Identified Risk Rating in the
Moderate, Significant or High
categories require some form of
Control Measure – next column.
(Multiply Like & Cons)

address the risk effectively? Will
the control be documented &
communicated? Will the control be
in operation &applied consistently?
How will the control be enforced
and what is the consequence of
failing to abide by control
mechanism?
Risk Rating
Multiply the likelihood score by
the Consequence Score to
determine the Risk Rating.
Consider - Do the controls
Consequence


Likelihood

to their number position in the boat
(marked inside the boat and on the oar).
In the event of capsize or swamping their
first responsibility is for their ‘partner’ is
safe and well. Positions 1 and 2 are
responsible for each other and the
sweep, Positions 3,4 & 5 are responsible
for each other. Numbering off should
occur commencing with the sweep, and
then 1,2,3,4,5.
 An additional 3 floatation devices will be
available from the safety boat above and
beyond those in the rowing boat.
Person Overboard
Is there potential for a person/s overboard, or
swimmer in trouble.
3
2
6
 Sweep provides the highest risk of
overboard
 Training and instructions by Training
Coordinator and Handbook ensures all
rowers must be able to swim 50m.
 Life jackets during training provide
buoyancy, and oars and rescue tubes
additional lifesaving support as
required.
 Boat on race day provides further
support.
 An additional 3 floatation devices will be
available from the safety boat above and
beyond those in the rowing boat.
3
2
6
Vessel Failure
Is there potential for a catastrophic failure,
(loss of steering or power) that may result in
harm to occupants of vessel, other vessels or
onlookers – consider speed of vessels
0
0
0
 Not applicable for whale boat– boat is
oars only
 Boat on race day has full regulation
supplies on board, including oars and
radio communication to shore.
0
0
0
Fire
Is there potential for a fire (consider refuelling
locations and type/load of fuel)
1
3
3
 Not applicable – boat uses oars and
does not require fuel
 Boat on race day has full regulation
supplies on board, including fire
extinguisher and radio communication to
shore.
1
3
3
Fall
Is there potential for an injury to a participant
from a fall?
3
1
3
 The risk is associated with the sweep
(as outlined in ‘person overboard’ above)
and the rowers
 Rowers fall is into the bottom of the boat
due to catching the water with the oar
 Helpful tips for Rowers included in the
handbook to assist new rowers
 Training provided to assist correct
positions
 Life jackets provide extra protection
2
1
2
Impact
Is there potential for an injury to a participant
from an impact with a hard surface or
structure?
3
1
3
 In the event of a fall or man overboard,
there is potential – see above for notes
re this.
 Decking where boats come in and out
from monitored and scrubbed as required
to reduce residue and slip hazard.
2
1
2
Propeller Injury
Is there potential for an injury to a participant
from a vessel’s propeller?
1
4
4
 Not applicable – boat is oar and does not
use a motor
 Boat on race day has small engine fitted
however stays clear of boats during
racing, and docks at a different space to
the whale boats.
1
4
4
Whaleboat Handbook 2015/16. Written & prepared by Flagstaff Hill.
Updated September 2015 . Page 37
 In the event of a rescue the boat will
keep propeller at rear or rescue zone.
Debris in water
Is there potential for debris to be in water or
remain in the water causing hazard to other
participants, users or vessels
3
1
3
 The river has a number of catchments
and is a natural body of water and
therefore debris can be in the water way.
 Safety check of the water on race day will
aim to identify these hazards.
 Safety handbook provided to all teams
includes a ‘Conditions Assessment’ to
assist rowers identify hazards, and
withdraw from training if required.
2
1
2
Failure of Rescue Service
Is there potential that the rescue vessels may
not reach those affected or be unable to affect
a rescue for the potential number of people in
the water at any one time
2
5
10
 During training it is the requirement of the
person on the boat to carry out the
rescue, and alert emergency services.
The safety jackets are therefore
paramount to be worn to prevent
drowning.
 On race day, if the rescue boat fails, the
other 2 boats must act as rescue boats.
1
5
5
Adverse weather
Is there potential that the weather may impact
on the safety of the event – consider – wind,
wind direction, sea, swell, tide,
2
2
4
 Safety handbook provided to all teams
includes a ‘Conditions Assessment’ to
assist rowers identify hazards, and
withdraw from training if required.
 The committee has and will cancel
training until weather and/or water
conditions are suitable.
 If the weather is adverse on race day, the
event will be either delayed or
postponed.
2
2
4
Restricted visibility
Is there potential for event to be conducted in
low light/visibility, twilight or dark
Consider requirement for navigation lights,
impact on rescue
1
2
2
 Training is only permitted in daylight
hours as outlined in the Handbook:
 No lights are installed on the boats for
this reason.
1
2
2
Black water
Is there potential that the water turbidity,
colour or available daylight might prevent
seeing someone in the water or under the
surface
1
2
2
 The Conditions Assessment in the
Handbook addresses water conditions,
including clarity, debris and flow/current.
This makes the team aware of
conditions.
 Light is not an issue as per ‘restricted
visibility’ above.
1
2
2
Delay to event causing impact on
exclusion zone
Is there potential that the event may be
delayed or run overtime, be late to start, or be
required to pause for unanticipated activities?
If so, what is the likely impact on safety of the
event
2
1
2
 We have planned for the event activities
to run from 10am – 4pm, therefore the
requirement of a river exclusion zone
from 9am-5pm is sufficient.
 If the event needed to be adjusted, the
impact on safety would be minimal, and
the rescue boat would seek to undertake
the additional supervision of the waters if
required.
2
1
2
Communication failure
Is there potential that communication - with
participants, with event marshals, safety
boats, public, emergency services, other
vessel operators may fail,
2
1
2
 Radio is the main form of communication
between the rescue boat and the
operations on shore.‘
 Failure of the radios, mobile phones will
be used.
 Mobile phones will be with all committee
members, and the operations marquee,
MC, rescue boat, maintenance staff
member and timing stand will all have
radios on a set channel.
1
1
1
Whaleboat Handbook 2015/16. Written & prepared by Flagstaff Hill.
Updated September 2015 . Page 38
Unregistered vessels or unlicensed
operators
Is there potential that unregistered vessels or
unlicensed operators of powered vessels will
occur
Failure to adequately brief participants,
marshals and rescue services
Is there Safety briefing - to participants, event
marshals, emergency services, other
1
1
1
 The only boat requiring registration and
licence is the rescue boat – these are
current and checked prior to race day.
1
1
1
1
4
4
 For training, all rescue, safety and rower
information is provided in the handbook
for the benefit of all rowers, and to
ensure safety is maintained.
 The team captain is appointed and is
responsible that this is completed and
accurate.
 On race day, a full safety briefing is
completed 15mins prior to the race start
and addresses general safety issues, as
well as specific issues for the day (egweather, debris, etc...).
1
3
3
Inadequate support/emergency services
Are the emergency support services engaged
to provide rescue appropriately trained for the
activity, familiar with the area of operation,
utilising appropriate vessels and equipment,
and properly qualified
2
3
6
 All emergency services have been
notified of the event and the application
to close the river.
 Frist aid persons will be on site with Level
2 First Aid.
 Ariel photographs of the area and details
of first aid kits, land lines, etc... are all
provided in the handbook.
 Marshalls, timing, operations and rescue
boat on the day will all contact
emergency services immediately should
the need arrive.
 The access route to the boat ramp and
shore are all clear of infrastructure.
2
2
4
Failure to raise emergency alarm
Ability for participants, event marshals to raise
alarm and implement appropriate response
1
4
4
 There is wide variety of ways that this
can be raised, through radio, signal,
mobile phone and landline. Persons at
the precinct will also have vehicles to use
as transport if needed.
1
3
3
Additional

Whaleboat Handbook 2015/16. Written & prepared by Flagstaff Hill.
Updated September 2015 . Page 39
ENVIRONMENTAL RISK ASSESSMENT FOR EVENT
Risk Assessment
Residual Risk Assessment
Consequences of a hazard occurring without and control measures
Consequences of a hazard occurring following implementation of control
measures
Hazard / Risk
Control Measure
List all hazards below and/or
use the provided list.
Please List Control Measures
to be in place to reduce the
risks identified.

Consider: What can happen,
how it can happen given a number of
different circumstances, or in conjunction
with another mishap. Consider the
likelihood of it occurring.

Consider - Do the controls
address the risk effectively? Will the control be
documented & communicated? Will the control
be in operation &applied consistently? How
will the control be enforced and what is the
consequence of failing to abide by control
mechanism?

Multiply the likelihood score by
the Consequence Score to determine the
Risk Rating.
Fuel Spills / Refuelling
1
3
3
3
1
3
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
Will refuelling be required on site?
Will there be storage of fuels and chemicals
on site?
Litter / Debris
Is debris expected to enter the waterway?
Are large crowds expected on the banks?
Habitat Disruption
Will infrastructure be placed near reed beds /
bank vegetation?
Noise
Is excessive noise expected?
What duration and time of day will the noise
occur?
Air Pollution
Will gases / smoke / plumes be discharged as
part of the event?
 Not applicable – boat uses oars and
does not require fuel
 Boat on race day has full regulation
supplies on board, including fire
extinguisher and radio communication to
shore.
 The river has a number of catchments
and is a natural body of water and
therefore debris can be in the water way.
 Safety check of the water on race day will
aim to identify these hazards.
 Safety handbook provided to all teams
includes a ‘Conditions Assessment’ to
assist rowers identify hazards, and
withdraw from training if required.
 The rowing course is on a wide open
river
 The entry and exit point for the boats is
via a designated boat ramp clear of
vegetation. This is a solid man made
structure.
 The event is not a concern with noise.
The small vessel used as the safety boat
only runs during the race period.
 The whale boats are not motorised and
do not produce noise.
 The communication on the day is through
a PA system as needed for
announcements and communication to
rowers. Background music suitable for a
‘family’ crowd is playing in between by a
local broadcasting group.
 The only emission will be from the small
rescue boat and this does not create a
concern for rowers or other river uses.
What equipment used might have air
discharges?
Whaleboat Handbook 2015/16. Written & prepared by Flagstaff Hill.
Updated September 2015 . Page 40
1
3
3
3
1
3
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
(Multiply Like & Cons)
Risk Rating
Consequence
Likelihood
(Multiply Like & Cons)
Risk Rating
Likelihood
Consequence

If the Risk Rating remains in the
Moderate, Significant, or High categories, then
additional control measures are required.

Any Identified Risk Rating in the
Moderate, Significant or High categories
require some form of Control Measure –
next column.
Water Quality
1
1
1
1
1
1
Is there a risk for any material (liquid or solid)
to enter the waterway?
Sewage Management
Will additional toilet facilities be brought on
site (river banks)
Will vessels / spectator craft be present with
sewage tanks
 The Conditions Assessment in the
Handbook addresses water conditions,
including clarity, debris and flow/current.
This makes the team aware of
conditions.
 There is a risk of material being in the
water way as it is a natural environment
 Additional cleans on existing public
toilets are arranged to ensure they are
kept well stocked and clean
 An additional disabled toilet has been
ordered through Warrnambool City
Council and this will be installed as
additional facilities. This is self-sufficient
unit and will be installed and removed as
per Warrnambool City Council
instructions.
Whaleboat Handbook 2015/16. Written & prepared by Flagstaff Hill.
Updated September 2015 . Page 41
1
1
1
1
1
1
Appendix 4 – Competency Assessment and Theory
Assessment
The purpose of the assessment is to determine the supervision and rescue
support required for each rower and ultimately each team.
For the purpose of this section please list the rowers completing the
assessment before or during their first training session.
Name Rower 1: ________________________________________________
Name Rower 2: ________________________________________________
Name Rower 3: ________________________________________________
Name Rower 4: ________________________________________________
Name Rower 5: ________________________________________________
Name Rower 6: ________________________________________________
Name Rower 7: ________________________________________________
Name Rower 8: ________________________________________________
Name Rower 9: ________________________________________________
Name Rower 10: ________________________________________________
The tables on the following two pages are set up with 10 competencies or
questions (A-J), and the columns 1-10 are to coincide with rowers in your
team. A tick () should be used to mark if they rower is competent or answers
correctly, and a cross () if they are not or do not.
Competency Assessment Table
The Competency Assessment needs to be completed by the Team Captain
and results provided to the Safety Officer. All rowers must have this
completed prior to being considered competent to row.
The Theory Assessment Table
The Theory Assessment also needs to be completed by the Team Captain
and results provided to the Safety Officer. All rowers must have this
completed prior to entering the boat.
This Appendix should remain in the Whaleboat Handbook 2015/16 and be
available for any member of the committee or the Safety Officer to check at
any stage.
Whaleboat Handbook 2015/16. Written & prepared by Flagstaff Hill.
Updated September 2015 . Page 42
Competency Assessment
Table
A
B
C
D
E
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
Able to keep boat stable in
stationary
position,
and
understand blade positions
Complete theory questions
(appendix 4)
G
Able to stop the boat
J
3
Safely enter and exit the boat
Understand turning and steering
boat
I
2
Swim 50 meters in cold water
(or produce evidence of being
able to do so)
Participate in safely launching &
retrieve boat
(from wooden boat ramp at
Proudfoots)
F
H
1
Row Boat Backward and Forward
in Straight Line
Aware of and understand the
SMP and other information in the
Whaleboat Handbook 2013/14
Have completed the Activity
Consent form
Overall Competency Rating
(Overall number of ticks () per
rower
If rowers received less than 10 in the competency rating, the Safety Officer
must be contacted to determine what level, if any, of additional support is
required prior to the rowers participating.
Team Captain Name:
___________________________
Signature:
___________________________
Date:
___________
Safety Officer Name:
___________________________
Signature:
___________________________
Date:
___________
Whaleboat Handbook 2015/16. Written & prepared by Flagstaff Hill.
Updated September 2015 . Page 43
Theory Assessment
Table
A
B
C
D
E
F
G
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
Where can local rules regarding
water traffic be obtained from?
Who should participate in the
Conditions assessment prior to
training? (appendix 5)
If the boat requires maintenance,
who should this be reported to
and how?
Is it compulsory to wear a PFD2
for all training sessions?
Who is responsible for locking up
the equipment and boats?
What organisation owns the boat
and coordinates the training and
events?
SMP stands for what?
If first aid is required, where do I
find the first aid kit?
In the event of the team
I
cancelling training, do we need to
notify anyone?
If we start late, can we still
J
complete a full hour of training?
Overall Competency Rating
(Overall number of ticks () per
rower
H
Answers to Theory Competency Table:
A : Marine Safety Victoria; B : All rowers; C : To a member of the committee or the Safety Officer, and this is best
done by using the Incident report form. Alternatively by email or phone; D : Yes; E : All rowers; F : Flagstaff Hill; G:
Safety Management Plan; H : In the oars cupboard under the Proudfoots veranda; I : Yes. This should be
communicated to the Training Coordinator so that we are able to maintain an accurate log of boat use, and to ensure
all teams complete the required three training sessions; J: No. You must finish at your allocated time (on the hour) so
that teams after you are not delayed.
If rowers receive less than 10 in the competency rating, the Safety Officer
must be contact to determine what level, if any, of additional support is
required prior to the rowers participating.
Team Captain Name :
___________________________
Signature :
___________________________
Date :
___________
Safety Officer Name :
___________________________
Signature :
___________________________
Date :
___________
Whaleboat Handbook 2015/16. Written & prepared by Flagstaff Hill.
Updated September 2015 . Page 44
Appendix 5 – Conditions Assessment
This Conditions Assessment is to be used prior to training. As identified in the
Competency Assessment and Theory Assessment, all rowers have a
responsibility to complete this.
Time and Date:
Weather
Low
Moderate
High 
Low
Moderate
High
Low
Below 20°C
Moderate
20°C-35°C
High
Above 35°C
Hyperthermia Risk
(effect of heat)
Low
Moderate
High
Hypothermia Risk
(effect of cold)
Low
Moderate
High
Clarity
Clear
-
Not Clear
Debris
Present
-
Not Present
Flow / Current
Low
-
High
Rowing Boat
Low
-
High
Motor Boat
Low
-
High
Sail Boat
Low
-
High
Wind speed
Wind direction
(in relation to rowing
course)
Chance of heavy rain
Temperature
Water Conditions
Water Traffic
If any of the answers above are marked with , the Safety Officer, Training
Coordinator, a member of the committee or Manager Flagstaff Hill should be
consulted prior to commencing training.
Whaleboat Handbook 2015/16. Written & prepared by Flagstaff Hill.
Updated September 2015 . Page 45
Appendix 6 – Local Waterway / Location Map for
training
Whaleboat Handbook 2015/16. Written & prepared by Flagstaff Hill.
Updated September 2015 . Page 46
Forms
NOTE : All forms are located at the back of this Handbook.
This back section of the handbook provides you with the needed forms for
your team to be able to register to use the boats for training, raise and report
safety issues and incidents, and register for racing.
These pages are not included in the numbering of the handbook, and can be
torn out and used as needed. If more are required, please contact a
committee member or email the general email address as detailed in the
contacts section of this Handbook.

4 x Public Injury / Incident report: To be completed if a member of your
team injures themselves while undertaking whale boat rowing (this
includes set up, rowing and pack up). If you require more please contact
the committee. This can also be used to report a near miss or damaged
equipment.

2 x Australian Whaleboat Racing Team Registration: This is to be used
to register your team for training or racing.

10 x Australian Whaleboat - Activity Consent Form (over 18yrs)
2 x Australian Whaleboat - Activity Consent Form (under 18yrs):
These forms must be completed by each individual rower prior to them
using the boats or associated equipment. This is the responsibility of the
Team Captain to ensure these are completed for each of their rowers.
Please photocopy more as you require.

1 x Feedback form: to be completed post event to enable the committee
to make improvements and changes to future programs.
Whaleboat Handbook 2015/16. Written & prepared by Flagstaff Hill.
Updated September 2015 . Page 47