For Australian Peter Joubert AM, yacht design was more of a sideline to his major research work in mechanical engineering.
He has received awards for ‘services to engineering through research in the field of fluid mechanics, particularly in relation to submarine design and education.’
However, his research work has extended far beyond that, including the development of seat belts while serving as a World War II fighter pilot on active duty in New Guinea.
Prof Joubert was awarded the OAM for service to road and offshore yachting safety in the 1996 Australia Day Honors.
He retired in 1989 but continued his research as an Emeritus Professor at the University of Melbourne. Later work includes the study of submarine dynamics among other fields of inquiry for the Department of Defense.