Author: Geoff Morton - Chief Bosun

“Pig Trough Bay” does not show on all charts and is the northernmost bay on the eastern side of Garden Island. It is the only bay on this side (the inside) of the Island that has Moorings – so it is quite easy to find (Just under “2nd Head – On Chart).

SAFEGUARDS

Between the Mainland and Pig Trough Bay is the Mussel Farm – and you need to be aware of its existence. A lot of ropes, cables and floats – but all highly visible and well marked with floating yellow corner posts.

APPROACH

For the first time – Suggest that you travel down the Shipping Channel until clear (on the Southern Side) of the Mussel farm and then turn West into the Island. Moorings are in the southern end of the Bay – and Fremantle Sailing Club uses Moorings 122 and 123 (southernmost moorings).

Further up (north) in the middle of the Pig Trough Bay, there is a small outcrop of reef (marked by regulars with a post and sometimes a “witches hat”). Not a major issue as this is the shallower end of the Bay and visible.

122 and 123 have a good draft, and that information is available from the club when booking the mooring. From memory – the inner mooring is greater than 2 metres, and the outer mooring is greater than 3 metres. 1 mooring has 3 “screw pins” and the other has 2 – both extremely secure moorings for large vessels, and regularly maintained by the Club. Ropes are on the moorings – so they are easy to approach and secure to.

DEPARTING

Either, as you came in, or run North along the island and then directly back to Fremantle Sailing Club.

BOOKINGS – NO COST!!

But you do have to ring or call at the Office on 9435 8800 to ensure that the mooring is exclusively yours for the day/days you require.

FACILITIES AND CONSIDERATIONS

GIFAA (Garden Island Fishing and Aquatic Assoc) manages all the Island Moorings and is the only liaison point with the Navy who control Garden Island. The Navy are very tolerant of our use of the Moorings and the Island, and GIFAA ensure that the relationship is mutual and that the facilities are respected. The are a few ‘FORBIDDEN ZONES ON THE ISLAND – i.e. Stirling Base, Munitions Jetty and Munitions Store. It pays to acquaint yourself with these zones.

BBQs and a shaded area exist about mid way along the bay – They are free to the Public, gas and work extremely well. Bins are provided – BUT GIFAA has to pay for the service – so we try to make it a rule that “IF YOU TOOK IT TO THE ISLAND – THEN TAKE IT HOME AGAIN” i.e. take rubbish off the Island and home for disposal. Fresh water is available at the BBQ Area and at the toilets.

TOILETS – Toilets are great and there is usually a hose about if you feel so disposed as to hose the sand from the floor.

NB. The toilets are “COMPOSTING” – and no chemicals, disinfectants, porta potti waste can be put in these toilets. They rely on the composting process and any of the above would kill that process rendering the toilets useless!!.

BEACHES – Are secure, pristine and a delightful place to take the kids. Beaches that tourist brochures dream about!!.

PS. GIFAA HAS A WEBSITE here

NIGHTFALL

We are allowed to stay overnight on the moorings – BUT MUST BE OFF THE BEACH BY NIGHTFALL – NAVY SECURITY!!.

Trevor is the CALM Ranger – Great Fellow – but he has a job to do, and the Navy also use a Private Security Firm to ensure that the Beaches are clear at sunset.

WILDLIFE

There are Tamars (Wallabies) King Skinks (Large Black Lizards) Tiger Snakes and Carpet Snakes on Garden Island (Just your average Aussie “Bush”!) – So it pays to keep your eyes open, and above all else – LEAVE THEM ALONE.

SUMMARY

Whilst moored in Pig Trough Bay, you are in the lee of the cliffs and the breeze is minimal. When you depart to come home – the ‘Fremantle Doctor” (sea breeze) is directly behind you and makes for a wonderful run home.

SO ENJOY YOUR CLUB MOORINGS – RESPECT THE ISLAND – and if anyone from GIFAA speaks to you, listen to them as they ensure our goodwill and relationship with the Navy.

MOORINGS MAINTAINED FOR YOU BY YOUR BOSUNS SECTION!!!