Club Skippers

Skippers are extremely important to the club. Without them, there is no diving! Any member can become a skipper, just by learning a few skills and getting a bit of experience. Here's how:

1. National Powerboat Handling Certificate (NPHC, Formerly TL3)

To all those people keen to become skippers, the first step is the National Powerboat Scheme. This scheme is accepted across the nation and includes the recently introduced RST (Recreational Skipper's Ticket) course. The course trains you to operate a powerboat up to 8 metres in length. Freo TAFE, Volunteer Sea Rescue Groups and others run these courses regularly. The course takes about a week to complete (evenings and a weekend). The cost of the course is around $200 which includes theory and practical sessions. Book yourself onto a course and notify other club members via the list-server. If we can organise a group to do the course, we can get this cost reduced. If you become a club skipper, the Club will reimburse half of the cost of your course! For more info call the Freo TAFE on 9239 8200.

2. Apprentice Skipper

After successfully completing the National Powerboat Scheme, you need to do some time as an apprentice. To do this you should firstly send the Dive Coordinator, an email and let him know that you want your name included on the list of apprentice skippers. When booking a dive, remember to tick the "apprentice" box so the skipper gets a little warning. Then on the night before the dive talk to the skipper about your experience and he/she will help you out and teach you the various things you need to know. If you haven't already done so you will need to download an apprentice skippers log book. This is a guide to the skills required of a skipper. As you become competent at each skill the skipper who goes out with you will sign them off. Once they are all signed and 2 skippers vouch that you have had enough experience, then you can be approved by the committee. A quick reference Skippers Checklist and a boat and dive site briefing guide have been created to help skippers and apprentices remember all the things that need to be done when taking the boat out for a dive.

3. Truck Licence

You will also find the B & C class licence questions and answers sheets in a folder in the clubrooms. These will help you get your learners licence then you can get some experience driving the club truck and get your full licence. It is desirable for all skippers to also be truck drivers - then you can launch the boat etc.

It is easy really - you just need to get out and practice. We always need more skippers so we will try to do everything we can to help you get the experience you need. Just ask. We can organise jetty parking sessions, boat safety equipment sessions, boat orientation sessions etc. Just let a committee member or skipper know or send an email to the list server (see home page for signup details). If we can get a few keen people together then it will happen.