Launching the IRB

Launch Preparation

Selecting operating area and launch location

Select a location to position the IRB which is most appropriate for access and launching of the IRB. Position a short distance from the waterline, noting that this position may change throughout the day due to influences such as tide. Other factors for preferrable launch locations may include the presence of rocks or weed, angle of the beach, other beach users and the location of the patrol. It is recommended to position the IRB launching area just outside the red and yellow patrol flag in the buffer zone between the black and white craft flag. This area should have no swimmers or surfers in there and should provide a clear launching area.

Launching the IRB on the beach

It is always important to pause and plan prior to launching. Ideally the IRB should be turned towards the IRB Crewperson. This is to ensure that the IRB Driver maintains visibility of the break during the turn. The IRB Driver commands “lift and turn towards the IRB crewperson” and both perform the lift simultaneously.

The IRB is then dragged down to float on the water. If possible, wait for a wave to make it easier to drag the IRB through the water. Additional team members are also advised to assist with dragging and launching wherever possible. Position the IRB into a depth of water sufficient for the propeller safety guard to clear the bottom.

*NOTE: If for some reason the IRB needs to be turned towards the IRB Driver, this needs to be communicated prior to the lift i.e. the position of the IRB, environmental hazards or the physical ability of the IRB Crewperson.

Departing the shore

IRB Crewperson

There are a number of techniques that can be used to enter the IRB when departing the shore. Your preferred method will be dependent on a number of factors including varying beach types, surf conditions and your body composition and agility. Whilst guidance is provided around the suitable hand placement to enter the IRB you will need to find what works best for you.

• Is responsible for stabilising the IRB until directed to board by the IRB Driver
• Stands adjacent to the bow starboard lifting handle positioned to be able to see the incoming surf

Hand placement – Option 1
Right hand holds the bow rope on one of the knots with their palm up and thumb forward. This hand position is critical in order to obtain the correct angle for boarding
Left hand holds the starboard operator handle with their palm up

Hand Placement – Option 2
Right hand on the bow lifting handle, using it to push up to assist getting in
Left hand holds the bow rope handle

• The IRB Driver will command the IRB Crewperson in. As the IRB accelerates, the IRB Crewperson transfers their weight to their right elbow and forearm, jumps or rolls and pivots on their right forearm into the IRB

IRB Crewperson Entry Techniques:

Jump/Step in Technique

The IRB Crewperson is to jump or step over the starboard buoyancy tube into the IRB

Hip Roll Technique

The IRB Crewperson is to roll themselves on their right hip, swinging their legs into the IRB

Body Roll Technique

The IRB Crewperson is to roll themselves on their right side swinging their legs into the IRB.

• IRB Crewperson uses the acceleration of the IRB to assist their entry into the IRB
• IRB Crewperson pivots into the seated position, lock in position or rise position with their body in front of the Crewperson foot strap and three points of contact with the IRB which includes the left foot in an IRB Crewperson foot strap, one hand on the bow rope and one hand on the Crewperson handle.

IRB Driver

• IRB Driver checks motor is neutral and ensure throttle is start position (not open) prior to leaving beach
• IRB Driver starts the motor (one or two hands) when IRB is at a suitable depth, either positioned next to the driver lifting handle or in the IRB.

*NOTE: Once the motor has been started the IRB Driver should maintain control of the tiller arm at all times.

• IRB Driver boards the IRB using one of the following methods:
  

IRB Driver Entry Techniques:

Jump/Step in Technique

The IRB Driver is to jump or step over the port (drivers) side buoyancy tube into the centre of the IRB with their feet wide apart, their weight centred and stable stance then reaching for the tiller arm.

Hip Roll Technique

The IRB Driver is to roll themselves on their right hip and their right hand on the port (drivers) side buoyancy tube, swinging their legs into the IRB while reaching for the tiller.

• Once the IRB Driver is onboard, they need to keep looking forward to monitor the conditions
• The IRB Driver takes control of the tiller arm, then may place the IRB motor in gear with their left hand by reaching around the front of the motor
• Once the IRB motor is in gear, tiller control must be maintained with the right hand at all times
• The IRB Driver sits with either foot in a foot strap and front hand holding driver handle with left hand, knuckles down and palm upwards
• The IRB Driver commands the IRB Crewperson to board and may start to accelerate
• Negotiation of the surf commences when the IRB Crewperson has established an effective crewing position

*NOTE: Other launching techniques including the IRB Driver starting the IRB in gear when on board may be suitable depending on conditions and experience.