HPA staff members are volunteering to help rowing teams from area high schools and McMaster University stay safe during their training programs this spring. HPA has partnered with the Leander Boat Club to provide on-water support during the cold water training period, with volunteers stationed aboard the Port’s new Zodiac Rigid Hulled Inflatable Boat (RHIB).
HPA acquired its new Zodiac RHIB in 2012 as part of its ongoing commitment to a safe and secure port and harbour.
A 2011 incident involving school rowing teams dramatically illustrated how quickly conditions on the harbour can change, creating hazards for boaters of all kinds.
Several HPA staff completed Marine Emergency certification in order to be part of the volunteer safety team, in addition to holding a Pleasure Craft Operator Card. HPA’s President & CEO Bruce Wood is one of the early-morning volunteers.
“It is wonderful to see these young athletes out here, and we are pleased to help make sure everyone stays safe and has fun on the water. Safety is paramount in everything we do at the Port, so it seemed like a natural thing for us to offer our resources and expertise to Leander and its rowing crews,” said Wood.
“I am especially proud of my staff, who are down here at dawn to volunteer their time and skills in service to the community.”
Leander Boat Club’s cold water training program runs weekday mornings starting at 5:30 am, from early April to June 1. Rowing crews are on the water in single skulls, doubles, fours and eights, with coach boats along side.
“Leander is committed to maintaining a high priority on safety for all of our rowers and coaches,” said Leander Club Captain Aubrey Oldham. In addition to our own safety training, equipment, and procedures, we are thrilled to have on-water support from the Port Authority volunteers every morning.”