Advanced Powerboat Handling Course

Go From Licensed to Legendary

You’ve got your boat licence — now what? Let’s be honest: passing the licence test is just the start. Handling swell. Docking with precision. Managing wind. Reacting under pressure. That’s what separates a skipper from a confident captain.
Course Details

Handling swell. Docking with precision. Managing wind. Reacting under pressure. That’s what separates a skipper from a confident captain.

The Advanced Powerboat Handling Course is the natural next step — not just a good idea, but the smart move for anyone serious about skippering safely and confidently. This is hands-on, real-world, no-fluff coaching that transforms nervous licence holders into skippers with total control.
Master Slow Speed Manoeuvring:
Go beyond basic driving. We'll refine your ability to navigate the most challenging environments, from tight marina berths to intricate anchorages, transforming you into a master of close-quarters control.
Unwavering High-Speed Control
Experience the thrill of commanding your vessel at speed, while mastering critical emergency procedures like high-speed Man Overboard recovery. We'll equip you to handle any situation with composure.
Conquer Diverse Sea States with Confidence:
No more apprehension about swells and waves. We'll provide you with the techniques to confidently navigate any sea condition, ensuring a smooth and safe journey for everyone on board.
Strategic Navigation & Passage Planning Expertise
Become a true navigator. Master advanced course plotting, leverage cutting-edge technology, and develop comprehensive passage plans.
Go From Licensed to Legendary
Advanced Powerboat Handling Course
From
$695
(incl. GST)
Vessel: On Our 6.5m Training Boat
Students: Private sessions (1–2 students max) for maximum time at the helm
Location: d’Albora Marina, The Spit – Mosman
Runtime: Runtime: 3 hours hands-on training in real Sydney Harbour conditions
Dates: By booking
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Antonio Finocchiaro
October 21, 2025

These guys are unbelievably good I strongly recommend them regardless of how much you know they will definitely bring you to another level you can only benefit from them.

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Ele
October 14, 2025

I had a fantastic experience with the Boat Wise team, during my private boat tuition. Captain Dave was patient, knowledgeable, and made me feel completely comfortable and confident on the water. The session was not only informative but also really enjoyable. I’d highly recommend the Boat Wise Team to anyone looking to learn boating in a safe and fun way!

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Selma
October 10, 2025

Boatwise has been of the most professional and personal experience when it comes to charter, training and guidance. Would recommend Tristan anytime and will keep using his services for our Chap 290 luxury yacht.

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Peter Freyberg
October 8, 2025

After retiring to sunny Sydney 18 months ago, my wife Kylie and I dove headfirst into the ultimate cliché: snagging a gorgeous Princess F55 motor yacht with absolutely zero boating know-how! Thank goodness for Tristian at BoatWise – he’s been our absolute lifesaver (and boat-saver)! From guiding us through the boat licence course to hands-on, personalized training right on our own vessel across Sydney Harbour, Tristian’s warm, engaging vibe makes every session a joy while laser-focusing on building real skills and confidence. We’ve leveled up after every fun-filled lesson, feeling way more ready for those epic cruises. If you’re starting from scratch like us, BoatWise is pure gold – can’t recommend Tristian enough! 🚤✨

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Bob Bailey
October 8, 2025

Training from Tristian has dramatically enhanced my confidence on the water and in particular with docking and anchoring. Highly recommend spending a few hours with him if you are new to boating or in need of a refresher.

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Dory Bejjani
October 8, 2025

Tristan was a great instructor, he taught me very well and I am now able to confidently drive my boat with thanks to his help and advice. He was very friendly and encouraging as well. I highly recommend his service.

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Keiren Wymer
October 8, 2025

Amazing training facility ran by an awesome team will definitely be using again :)

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Ali Kauser
October 8, 2025

Tristian, you are an amazing person both as a friend and boat mentor. All the very best to you mate!

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Grant Ironside
October 8, 2025

Super helpful and friendly, no judgement guidance on getting to know your boat. Good for old and new skippers alike

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Alice Bradbury Delaney
October 8, 2025

Tristan and the Boatwise team have made owning and running a boat a breeze. Fantastic training and ran the whole process of getting my boat back on the water - including a new engine.

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L Mc
October 7, 2025

Tristian is a fantastic instructor. He helped me, my husband and stepkids get their boat licenses last year. I had just immigrated to Australia, and he was really helpful in so many ways. We have also joined the Boatlife boat club so we could get more time on the water for practice. Even though I had quite a bit of sailing experience abroad, my powerboat skills have really improved as a result of his help. Definitely don't hesitate to go with Boatwise, it is a really good company.

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I recently bought a boat as my new hobby but I quickly realised that it is not so easy to drive. Luckily, I connected with Boat Wise the manager Tristan and in no time he taught me how to handle the boat with ease and obtain my licence. It was a great experience in learning as Tristan was patience, clear and precise in his instructions, supportive, fun and very professional. I would high recommend Tristan at Boat Wise should you want to seek any boating activities.

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Noonan's Martial Arts
October 7, 2025

If you cherish your family and your boat... don't skip this review. I have had my boat license for over 20 years. I am very confident in my driving and managing the boat. I contacted Tristan to get some night navigation experience and thought to my self. Why not just meet him prior and do some swell and weather training as well. I was beyond surprised at the professionalism of Tristan and his knowledge. Tristan showed me easier ways to tie the boat to the cleat, come along side a wharf, different way to understand cardinal marker, he suggested a better way to attach my fenders.... and then the swell training and weather training. The knowledge I gained even as a skipper of 20years on my own half cabin was incredible. Needless to say I am still looking forward to booking in with Tristan to do night navigation. Tristan, Thank you for a great day, training and I will look forward to booking with you in a few weeks for night navigation. Chris Noonan

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Rob Price
October 6, 2025

In modern times there are generally lots of credible suppliers for any service .. but BoatWise takes their training and licensing to a whole new level - you’ll find others who claim to offer similar services .. but there is only one place I’d recommend .. BoatWise !

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Greg Huxley
October 6, 2025
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Robert Wallace
October 6, 2025

Tristian is an amazing coach and mentor. He has a truely amazing way of making you feel relaxed and calm when sitting in the captains chair. He also provides indepth knowledge to ensure you grow i to being a capable handler of your ship. I highly recommend him.

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Geoffrey Watson
October 6, 2025

I can not speak highly enough of Tristian his approach to teaching is laid back while at the same time being very professional. From the moment I met up with him at Mooney Mooney he was hands on deck to assist me with readying the boat all the while getting to know a bit about what I wanted to get out of the 3 hour's I had booked with him. His ability to impart knowledge in simple terms & demonstration was refreshing. We ended up going a bit overtime actually an hour & a half overtime this was at my request to which he willingly obliged even though he had to ring people & rearrange his schedule.I have come away from the time on the water with a new understanding of the water of my boat & how to work with them both to make boating a much more pleasurable & most importantly a safer experience for all who are on my boat in the future. As I said at the start of this review I cannot speak highly enough of Tristians ability & expertise I have no hesitation in recommending him to anyone contemplating furthering their abilities when it comes to boat handling. Geoff Watson

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Paul Young
October 6, 2025

We were fortunately referred to Boatwise by the Pardo dealer when we bought our new boat and having not had a boat for 10 years we thought we just needed a refresher course. Almost one year later I think we have probably used just about every service possible......to say that Tristian goes the extra (nautical) mile would be an understatement!! He has increased our skill levels in all respects, has referred first class service providers to us who are now part of our "team", made great and practical suggestions to maximise enjoyment of the boat(both technically and socially!) and provided successful boat license tuition to our daughter and son in law(and skippered the boat for their wedding!) He has also combined tuition on the trip out with skippering on the way back when circumstances required!! Tristian is very efficient and always more than punctual. Safety is his prime focus in tuition and Tristian upholds the highest standards in all aspects of the maintenance of the boat. The tuition is friendly and concepts explained well. We are looking forward to continuing to widen our skills with the assistance of Boatwise. We would wholeheartedly recommend Tristian and Boatwise without any hesitation.

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Kate Humphries
October 6, 2025

The best investment I made after purchasing my beloved 34 foot Mainship was having Tristian from Boat Wise spend a week aboard. I started the week feeling anxious about handling my first shaft-drive boat and finished it feeling completely confident at the helm. We tackled fuelling, manoeuvring through the shallow Broadwater, setting a course, anchoring and reversing into my tight marina berth, as well as handling lines and fenders. Tristian guided me through it all with patience, skill and calm humour. Boat Wise promises to help you “gain total confidence on the water” and that’s exactly what happened. I couldn’t recommend him more highly!

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Chris Fisher
October 6, 2025

Tristan has been a great source of knowledge and an inspirational teacher and guide on our boating journey.

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Keanu Armistead
October 3, 2025

Tristian and the team are awesome! They’re very good at explaining not just what to do, but why to do it, which helped me a lot. I did my boat licence through BoatWise a while back, and it was a great day - lots of practical too, which for me is a much more productive way to learn. More recently, I’ve been working with Tristian to touch up on manoeuvring in tight spaces around the marina, which has been extremely helpful. I would highly recommend BoatWise to both new and experienced boaters.

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Manali
August 19, 2025

I had an absolutely amazing experience with BoatWise for my boat licence training! The course was clear, professional, and super helpful for someone like me who’s new to boating. What I loved most is that it wasn’t just theory – it included practical training as well. We actually got to spend around 15–20 minutes driving a boat, which gave me the confidence I needed to feel comfortable behind the wheel. The facilitators, John and Alex, were fantastic. They were patient, knowledgeable, and really supportive throughout the whole process. They explained everything in a way that was easy to understand and made the training fun and engaging. I highly recommend BoatWise to anyone looking to get their boat licence. The mix of hands-on practice and expert guidance from John and Alex made all the difference. Couldn’t be happier with the experience!

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V Lim
July 21, 2025

Tristian from Boat Wise is an incredible trainer—professional yet fun and interactive, not to mention a fountain of knowledge. He makes the whole boat-learning experience enjoyable and easy to understand. We are new to boating but he made us felt completely at ease asking questions, and his thorough & hands-on teaching style really helped things click. Thanks to Captain T, our confidence on the water and excitement to boating grow with each session. Couldn’t have asked for a better trainer and we look forward to future sessions 🛥☀️ Thank you Captain T!!

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Sendura Lim
July 20, 2025

Captain Tristian is the best mentor in boating! He is so well versed on how to navigate the boat, understanding how the boat will move around in the water . Every training day felt like being supported to be able to maneuver the boat and feel the boat. Me and my sis are always excited on our training days, hearts skips a beat to expect the unexpected! I can’t believe the progress we have made with such a short timeframe and looking forward for more! Reverse camera On Captain! As what Captain T always says “ slow is pro ! “

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Elizabeth Boon
July 18, 2025

I recently obtained my boat license through BoatWise, and I couldn't be happier with the training. Tristian, our instructor, was truly exemplary – remarkably patient, knowledgeable, and a highly skilled instructor. He made learning complex concepts enjoyable and clear. I now feel prepared and confident to navigate the harbour, and I'm eager to get involved in further developing my boating abilities. BoatWise comes with my highest recommendation!

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karen Morgan
July 16, 2025

I want to extend my sincere gratitude to Tristian from Boatwise for an absolutely fantastic experience! Tristian is an exceptional trainer. His vast experience and knowledge made the training process not only incredibly informative but also genuinely enjoyable! I learned so much about safely navigating on Sydney Harbour and now feel completely confident and excited to take my family out on the water. I highly recommend Boatwise to anyone looking at gaining real confidence on the water!

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Octo R
July 15, 2025

Very helpful, depth knowledge, highly recommend

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Chris T.
July 15, 2025

One of the best decisions in our boating journey was using BoatWise for our skipper training. Tristian is an absolute boating maestro and made it easy for my family and I to learn how to skipper. From initial on board safety checks to understanding various conditions whilst on the water, his extensive knowledge will have new boaties on the water in no time.

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Jack Kamatsos
June 8, 2025

Great day and Alan was extremely helpful and explanatory about everything needed on the course.

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Andrew Tait
June 7, 2025

Absolutely thrilled with boat wise. The team are very professional and knowledgeable with the boat licence course. Alan was awesome. He made everything easy to understand. When it came to the practical part of the course, he guided us every step of the way. Highly recommended the boat wise team for anyone interested in obtaining a boat licence

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Greg Foster
June 7, 2025

Yeah Dude

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Mark Levi
June 3, 2025

Tristian is a great coach! Very knowledgeable and patient! Highly recommend!

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Max Mckelvey
May 28, 2025

A massive thanks to Boat Wise. Just completed the vessel handling course with Tristian, he was super enthusiastic about teaching each member onboard for ways for us to gain the clearest confidence to pursue the course. Can’t recommend Boat wise more!!! Book any marine course with them, highly recommend. Cheers

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bronte sprouster
May 28, 2025

Just had an amazing boat handling course with Boat Wise, and I can't recommend them enough! Tristian was our instructor, and he was absolutely fantastic. He's a master at explaining everything clearly, especially all the tricky terminology. Seriously, he made learning so easy and enjoyable.

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Randa Cowell
May 7, 2025

I recently completed my boating licence course with Boat Wise, and I couldn't be more impressed. From start to finish, the experience was outstanding. The instructor Alan was knowledgeable, patient, and passionate about boating, making the learning process both effective and enjoyable. The course was well-structured, covering everything from safety procedures to hands-on practice, and I left feeling confident and fully prepared to get out on the water. The equipment and facilities were top-notch, and the staff went above and beyond to ensure everyone felt comfortable and supported. Whether you're a complete beginner or looking to brush up on your skills, I highly recommend this course. It was an incredibly valuable experience and a fantastic investment in boating confidence and safety. Tristian was so informative and always on top of everything before my course making sure I am ready for the day and even when I went to Service NSW to issue my licence he informed me on what to do before hand.

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Jackson Yu
April 10, 2025

Great captain! Happy with the service

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Danny Sukkar
March 27, 2025

absolutely recommend Boat Wise. very professional, thorough and experienced. we were a party of 3 and learnt a lot. many thanks to the Captain.

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Lachie Larsson
February 23, 2025
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hong eric
February 1, 2025

did private lesson - thoroughly enjoyable

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Kathleen Mitchell
January 31, 2025

We could not have wished for a better experience for our son to obtain his boat licence. Thank you Tristian for your professionalism in making the process so smooth and Captain Dave for the invaluable knowledge you passed on to our son, he was thrilled! We would recommend Boatwise to anyone - 5 🌟

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Emi H
January 31, 2025

Private lesson was excellent and well structured!

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Robert Hughes
January 22, 2025

I couldn't recommend Tristan more highly. He is very professional and personable which made the whole experience positive and informative. Tristan was very patient which really helped build confidence. I'll be definitely booking in again for more classes. Thanks again Tristan!!

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DAVID WILDMAN
January 14, 2025

I highly recommend Tristian and BoatWise for anyone looking to obtain their boat license or enhance their boating skills. My experience with Tristian was exceptional from the very start. After studying the boating handbook—an excellent guidebook provided by BoatWise—and completing practice tests on the NSW Transport website, I felt well-prepared for my lessons. During a full 6-hour day on the water in Pittwater, Tristian expertly guided me through the essentials of safe boat preparation, startup procedures, and all the necessary basics. His testing included the rules of the water and navigating various markers and hazards. Thanks to his thorough instruction, I successfully passed my practical assessment and received my certificate, followed by my NSW Boat License the next day! A week later, I enjoyed another full day on the water with Tristian, where I learned to handle the boat in more challenging situations. We practiced various techniques with the engines and reviewed the basics, such as anchoring, mooring, and docking smoothly. By the end of the second day, I felt confident in my understanding of boating theory, navigation rules, and safe operation under different conditions. If you’re considering getting your boat license, seeking a refresher, or wanting more complex training, look no further than Tristian at BoatWise!

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fergs 64
January 12, 2025

Went today with my wife for out boat licence, I was really nervous at the start within a min Tristan the instructor made me fell 100x better and the rest of the day was soo much fun as well as learning everything I need to successfully go about the harbour . Definitely recommend this course 👌. Thanks for a awsome day out Tristan.

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Dyan Stott
December 17, 2024

Great boating school.

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George Karambelas
December 15, 2024

Boat wise offers an excellent experience which encompasses both hands on learning as well as theory learning. Most definitely recommend for everyone.

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Charlie Merhi
December 13, 2024

I highly recommend Boat wise, I shopped around on who I can get to teach my son his boating license, and I’m so glad i went with boat wise my son understood and now can drive a boat they took the time and went through the whole process and made it’s so easy, very happy and satisfied with my decision.

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Etai Meretz
December 12, 2024

Tristan is a great teacher and skipper. Was very patient out on the water and helped refine our skills. Taught us a bunch of new tricks as well as what to consider in order to improve our seamanship. Would highly recommend!

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Youssef Dimassy
December 12, 2024

So easy to work with and very helpful in learning the correct way with great staff

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Jon Bond
December 11, 2024

Incredible training from Tristian and Boatwise. Now have more confidence with the boat and also an understanding of how to deal with different weather conditions. Tristian provided calm clear guidance and support throughout the process.

Elevate your skills and command the water with unwavering confidence.

Train on a fully equipped powerboat in real-world conditions, with expert-led coaching that prioritises skill, safety, and control.
Master Slow Speed Manoeuvring:
Go beyond basic driving. We'll refine your ability to navigate the most challenging environments, from tight marina berths to intricate anchorages, transforming you into a master of close-quarters control.
Learn from Sydney’s Top Boating Experts
Personalised coaching designed to help you regain control and refine your skills.
Real-World Training on Sydney Harbour
Practice essential manoeuvres, docking, high-speed handling, and emergency response in dynamic conditions.
Exclusive, Hands-On Experience
Train on a premium powerboat designed for high-performance learning.
Flexible Scheduling to Fit Your Lifestyle
Book 7 days a week at a time that suits you.

Your Risk-Free Course Options

Train with experts. Master your skills. No pressure.

This isn’t a generic theory course—this is hands-on, expert-led training designed to help you regain control, sharpen your skills, and feel completely at ease on the water.
Focused Skill Builder
A fast-track refresher or confidence boost between full-day sessions.
$695
(incl. GST)
Half Day Session
1 x 3 hour hands-on training session
Learn on our 6.5 M Custom Built Training Boat
Core Training
A full-day deep dive into advanced boat handling.
$1,200
(incl. GST)
1-Day Intensive
1 x 6 hour hands-on training session in real Sydney Harbour conditions
Learn on our 6.5 M Custom Built Training Boat
Captains Journey
5 Session Mastery Package
$5,400
(incl. GST)
10% off - Save $600 (was $6,000)
5x Full Sessions
Learn on our 6.5 M Custom Built Training Boat
Harbour Master
10 Sessions Mastery Package
$9600
(incl. GST)
20% Off - Save $2,400 (was $12,000)
10x Full Sessions
Learn on our 6.5 M Custom Built Training Boat

Every Session Includes:

A great few hours on the water with Tristian. He was able
to help me improve my docking skills and gave me the knowledge to understand the dynamics of the boat. Not only is he a good instructor, he was calm and confident and a nice guy too! He’s in high demand so book him ASAP.
Dean Yates
Course learning goals

Everything you need to master the Sydney Harbour waters and beyond!

Safety and Preparation
Life jackets, communication, and crew positioning for safe boating
High-Speed Handling
Manage trim, stability, and wave conditions for a smoother ride
Low-Speed Handling
Manoeuvre in tight spaces, control drift, and handle wind & tide
Rules of the Water
Understand right-of-way, navigation signs, and how to manage busy waterways
Boating Skills
Anchor like a pro, berth confidently, and secure your vessel with proper mooring techniques
Emergency Situations
Respond quickly to distress calls, recover a person overboard, and use a marine radio effectively
Basic Weather and Tides
Read forecasts, understand sea conditions, and plan trips safely

Start your journey to becoming a more confident and skilled boater!

Our experienced trainers will work with you at your own pace to ensure that you feel comfortable and confident operating your vessel on Sydney Harbour and its surrounds.
Book your private session today

Limited spots available!

Contact Us for Custom Training

We can work with your needs

Need Help?

If you're unsure or need a question answered about our courses or packages, please feel free to call us on 0481 877 912 leave a message below and we'll get back to you.
Contact Us

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