Hey Guys

My man has just started kiting a few months ago. He had a couple of lessons and was so keen, bought the gear. We've been down to Melville once so he could have a go on his own. I must admit (on behalf of both of us) that we were a little daunted by the 'danger' of the whole situation (wind was onshore and about 15 knots) and after rigging up (slowly) and getting ready to lauch, he decided to just watch for a while instead. His ego was a little shattered, but after reading all the posts about safety and all the stuff that's gone wrong, I'm very proud of him for choosing to learn by watching others first. Now we're both back at work, it's been two weeks and he still hasn't used his new kite but he's hoping for good conditions this weekend.

So far we've done everything right, been careful, watched and learn't (even as a spectator, i like to know what to do for helping him launch etc) joined WAKSA and was just wondering if you're having another meeting and when it is? I know you've just had one and obviously we missed it - but we're both keen to check the next one. Even if there are minutes from the meeting of the 13th that we can check out??

Cheers!

Hi and welcome

Firstly the minutes for our meeting of 12th Jan 04 are posted under WAKSA.

Next meeting will be 10th Feb 04 and it would be great to see you there. These meetings are fairly low key and very social but a good forum to raise any issues or ask questions.

There are some local rules in place which were initiated to improve safety in the Bay. See below -

i) WAKSA membership is encouraged for anyone kiting at Melville Beach. This provides PI insurance which everyone at Melville should have given the proximity of the road, houses and footpath.

ii) A Take-off and Landing Zone is in place which extends from the mean tide level on the beach, seaward 50m and North/South for the entire length of Melville Beach.

The 50m line is marked at the main kite area by a small white float.

No Kiters are to sail / jump / turn / body drag inside this zone unless launching or landing.

iii) All kites are to be flown to seaward side when walking back up the beach or stationary in vicinity of the beach.

i) Beginners should walk out into the water to launch their kites.

Hope this helps and feel free to say Hi next time your down.

Paul