BMEA

There has been a lot of interest about the recent developments by OFCOM that allow UK Boatowners to use their marine VHF radios in inland waterways throughout Europe. This has come about because OFCOM are now issuing a Notice of Variation to the current VHF licence allowing UK boatowners to gain an ATIS (Automatic Transmission Identification System) number.

The first ever Basic Marine Electronics Installer (MEI) course to be run outside the USA took place on 7 and 8 April at Marine House, Egham. The successful course was run as a pilot and delivered by BMEA, and was well supported by key electronics manufacturers with delegates from both waterside dealers and manufacturers such as Hamble Marine Ltd, Garmin and Raymarine.

The Green Blue is an exciting environmental awareness initiative by the British Marine Federation and the Royal Yachting Association. The aim is to promote the sustainable use of coastal and inland waters by boating and watersports participants, and the sustainable operation and development of the recreational boating industry.

A £500 grant is now available to businesses in the South East region for the purchase of energy efficient products. Items such as low energy light bulbs, sensor switches or insulation could be purchased with the grant and will benefit businesses with further money saving due to reduced costs of resources.

The Queen’s Awards for Enterprise in the International Trade category has been graciously approved by Her Majesty The Queen on the Prime Minister’s recommendation to BGB. The award is in commendation of the fantastic continual exporting ability of the company which maintains export figures of over 90 per cent of turnover year after year.

The campaign in the UK for the legalisation of PLBs (personal locator beacons) received a big boost this month, when BBC Radio 4 – one of the UK’s main radio stations broadcast a feature on the subject.

The Big5 Kayak Challenge is a set of unique expeditions paddling through some of the most challenging water on the planet. The aim is to raise money and awareness for a number of chosen charities and campaigns. Icom UK have donated a number of IC-M33 Buoyant VHF Marine Transceivers to the team for use throughout the challenge.

Together with the BMF (British Marine Federation), the BMEA (British Marine Electronics Association) has established the British Marine Electronics Technicians (BMET) Scheme to provide a standard for marine electronics technicians.

Standard Horizon has just launched one of the smallest fixed VHF DSC radios on the market. The ultra-compact GX1100E measures just 115mm x 60mm x 170mm (4.4in x 2.3in x 6.6in) but despite the small size, there has been no compromise on features. The front panel is fully waterproof (IPX7, one meter for 30 minutes) making it ideal for use on all types of craft, especially when space is at a premium.

Scanstrut Ltd, designer and manufacturer of installation solutions for marine electronics, is pleased to announce its selection as a winner of the 2009 Queen’s Award for Enterprise.