"Ian George" wrote in message
...

Really? That's a bit of a slippery argument, sport. Unless there've been
some legislative changes I'm unaware of, those rules apply to power boats
over 6hp. AFAIK a 100 year old blind man is perfectly at liberty t take
his 70 foot sailboat out unfettered by any form of legislation. (this must
still be the case, because I'm sure there are a few of them sailing out of
my harbour).

The rules have changed here in Queensland in the last year or so. I
understand that any vessel with a 6 hp or greater motor, even if an
auxiliary on a sailboat, requires a licenced skipper. I suppose that means
anyone can take out an engineless sailboat, no matter how large. Not many 70
footers without engines though.

The regulations include a compulsory course and on the water testing, by
registered testing authorities, so your blind man wouldn't make it. However,
he could still take out a dinghy.

I'm glad I got my licence years ago before all this nonsense but they'll
probably bring in retesting/renewal if they can make it pay!

Peter HK