Every trial run is useful for two reasons. It shows what works, and it shows what does not. The BES Southern training was no different.
What worked
The team came out of the two days with the same routine in their heads. Partnerships were also formed on the spot, so the boat crews who will work together for the real survey already know each other and know who does what.
The honest problem: time
The biggest worry the team raised was time. Each team is meant to cover up to 45 points a day. Getting from one point to the next takes navigation, and if only one person on the boat can navigate well, the team slows down whenever that person is busy.
The simple fix
The team agreed on a practical answer: train everyone on the boat to navigate, not just one person. That way, crew members can take turns, no one gets exhausted, and the team keeps moving even when conditions get tricky.
Forty-five data collectors went through the training in total - 37 who will be in the boats for the survey, plus 8 backups in case anyone is unable to travel. The workshop closed at 5:00 PM on 15 November 2023, with the team ready to head south.