The new generation Yanmar 3 cylinder 3YM20 shaft drive diesel engine aboard ‘Toonalook’ performed faultlessly as she crossed the infamous stretch of water to journey south for the Australian Wooden Boat Festival in Hobart.

Following the completion of this intricate wooden boat, Tim Heaney decided to step up the sea trials and give Toonalook the ultimate test. So he, along with James Frecheville, pointed her bow south across one of Australia’s most revered stretches of water to meet up with industry peers and enthusiasts at arguably the world’s best maritime event.

“The boat seemed to be running better each day we ventured south” said Tim,

“The Yanmar never missed a beat and used much less fuel than we estimated when planning the trip.  In fact the small amount of fuel we used was unbelievable considering the distance and testing conditions experienced”

“The log shows under two litres / hour at an average speed of 5.5 to 6 knots, not bad for an engine that had less than 20 hours on its clock before we departed”. 

The Frecheville Heaney wooden masterpiece carries the design heritage of the 1960’s style Port Philip Bay couta boat with a tough new wood epoxy construction for ultimate durability and low maintenance. The plans for this popular modern-day-boat design were outlaid in the early 1990’s by naval architect David Payne, with James Frecheville and Tim Heaney adding their experience and strong construction techniques for a stunning result.

James and Tim proudly demonstrated the features of Toonalook to many interested parties and prospective buyers during the 3 day Tasmanian event and again proudly had the vessel on display at the recent Geelong Wooden Boat Festival held bi-annually in March in Victoria.

Their efforts to deliver Toonalook safely across Bass Strait certainly did not go unnoticed by potential buyers as it no doubt was good testament of the design, their workmanship and the confidence they have in their chosen power selection.

“With not one oil leak or adjustment needed since commissioning, our choice to select Yanmar as the sole power sole source for Toonalook was no doubt the right one,” said Tim. 

“With no visible exhaust smoke and smooth quiet operation the Yanmar has impressed all who have been aboard. “

Toonalook and her crew had the pleasure of making their way up the Derwent River under the stern quarter of HM Endeavour and in the company of another 200 vessels. James Frecheville and Tim Heaney also caught up with Power Equipment’s Marine Sales Manager Michael Blair and Area Sales Manager Steve Parsons who both made a point of catching the boat building team at the festival.

“Be assured here at Power Equipment, we do not underestimate the value of having renowned wooden boat builders such as Frechville Heaney recommending and installing Yanmar marine diesel engines,” said Michael Blair.  

“Not only do they specify the Yanmar brand, but when asked, they also proudly tell their clients that their own in field experiences continue to validate their decision to use Yanmar,” said Michael Blair.

Toonalook is powered by Yanmar’s new generation YM Series engine. The 3 cylinder 3YM20 shaft drive marine diesel produces 21mhp at between 3200 and 3600 rpm and delivers more displacement, more torque, more amps and less smoke than its predecessor. The 3YM20 weighs 130kg.

James Frecheville established his business in 1990 and invited Tim Heaney, his leading hand of seven years, to become a partner in 2005.  Together they specialize in the repair and restoration of traditional timber leisure craft, both sailing and motorized.

For further information on this story contact:

Michael Blair
National Marine Sales Manager
Power Equipment Pty Ltd
Tel (03) 9764 0711
Fax (03) 9764 0678
Email power.equipment@yanmar.com.au