Totally agree with you Tony. I have been an "honorary local" until now, but as of next week when I move to Altona, I'll be vigorously protecting my local spot.

It doesnt matter how good a kiter you are - an unexpected gust can pull you downwind with nasty results for anyone in the way.

Most guys use common sense and exit the swimming area near the pier as soon as possible. Some swimmers/water users dont do themselves any favours, but if they come into what is obviously a kiting area i.e. the top lagoon ("the urinal") - then its their issue.

No swimmer in their right mind would get into the middle or end lagoons - they just use the clear water near the pier.

That said there is the odd dip** who insists on wading out with their F**** unleashed dog that likes chasing kiters. Suggestions that their dog is going to get a board rammed up its arse usually is met with a "what who me" dumb response.

Roll on honking seabreezes that sandblast the swimmers off the beach so its free for the kiters!

...and one more thing...

Not just restricted to Altona - but this particular event did occur there...

Last week - wind strong & gusty as - most kiters on 10m or less except for Neon Leon on a 12m (but he weighs as much as a baby elephant).

NEWB rocks up - about the same weight as a mate who was overpowered on his 7.5m.

NEWB starts setting up a 14m......

Local kiters protecting the spot and this guys safety tell him politely that he has got to be joking...mouthful back "I know what I'm doing" etc etc.

Thank god sanity prevailed and he ended up packing it up.

Another one recently was the German tourist who has never flown a 4-line kite before (discovered this as he asked for help in setting up the lines).....thankfully next time I saw him it was with an instructor.

Now, I was a SLOOOWWW learner - but at least I got my arse down to Inverloch each weekend and went as far away from everyone as possible to practice.....

Respect