Just witnessed yet another newby launch an over sized C kite in 30-35 knts cross offshore winds only to get pole axed!! Unfortunately I could not get to him in time to question what the hell he was thinking before he was being trashed across the water. Fortunately he was only smacked into the water and nothing more solid. He finally undid his harness and swam away unharmed. His kite was last seen heading out to sea.

When I finally got to him and made sure he was OK I gave him a bit of a blast and hopefully some constructive advice!! Its common sense, if its blowing offshore dont go out!! If the locals or no one else are about its a good sign dont go out!! Just because you only have one kite it doesn't make it the right size!! (11m yarga in 35knts)

Where was this? We were out on 7s and 8s and it was a tad demanding during the gusts.

Na asked him why he didn't deploy his safety but I dont think he even really thought about it. Asked if he had had lessons, said yes but obviously missed the safety bit of wasn't provided.

Was at Aspendale at about 3pm, yes kite last seen heading across the bay. People seem to think that the nice open beach makes it safe. Need to remind people of what happened to Laurie about 4 years back!!!

common sense aint that common...ignorance is bliss