Cowan Creek

 

 

 

We have not blogged for a while we have been on the RPA moorings in Pittwater,for past few weeks and had lots of fun, crewed on fun races etc many short passages in this beautiful area, arguably better than the Whitsundays,
Last weekend we went to Bobbin Head, with A BBQ ashore and overnighting on the National Park mooring, then the next day a bit overcast to Smith Creek, its hard to believe we are only a few km's from Sydney, so peaceful and full of native wild life.
Then the nest day coffee ashore and newspapers at Cottage point, this is where the photos were taken.
Then onto Hallets beach for lunch and ashore on the beach with Kookaburras and giant monitor lizards.
Then onto overnight in Towlers Bay with a glorious BBQ on Xdream with the Robbos and early departure Sunday Morning for first Xmas Party this afternoon in Mosman.
Xmas is close, Jane arrives in aus today.

Rugby Union games in Melbourne bring it on

 

YES this is the new rectangular stadium in the Melbourne Sports Precinct nearly completed, it will host Rugby Union, Rugby League and Soccer etc etc.

More fun and games at the Melbourne Marathon

 

 

 

 

Just a few more pics from the Marathon and the preparations, Guy and Dad after a training run, Guy on foot Dad on bike, thought the New Harley Davidson would help in future, the Ethiopian runners leading the pack they were 20 minutes ahead of Guy, although later one collapsed, A pic of Guy in the Members Stand in the G only 15 minutes after finish with his bag of goodies, and his young nephew.

The Melbourne Marathon

 

Hurrah for Guy!!!
Guy Beaven our son, ran in the Melbourne Marathon yesterday, he did a sub 3 hour run, 2hours 50 minutes and we believe finished in the top 200 runners in a field of 4500 runners, a great effort and he seemed in very good shape to enjoy a family BBQ near the MCG where they finished with all the familys.
Previously I had biked around the Yarra River as he trained, i had trouble keeping up.
We are back to Pittwater tomorrow and back on the Good Ship Evening Star

Seniors Week (seriously I cant believe we are!!!)

 

 

 

 

We went to the Seniors week in Federation Square in Melbourne,lst Sunday, there is a pic of Julie with Desi the resident Soother??? and Julie discussing the Pro's and Con's of serious bush walking and a view of the River from a nice pub on the river frontage, meanwhile we went to the Seniors Movie "The Boat that rocked" it was great fun.
We are back to Sydney and Evening Star next week, at last.

Wow what a storm

 

We were in Melbourne when the red dust storm hit Sydney, Evening Star was a RED mess, I decided to go up to Pittwater and clean the yacht both inside and outside, I did get some help and we knocked it over in 24 hours and ES looks great again.
I caught up with my friends in the cruising division of the RPAYC and CCCA, now back in Melbourne

GOOD NEWS

 

Jane has almost fully recovered and is back at work this week, thats a whole year for the procedures!
The photo is last weekend in Hong Kong at Disney World with Stew her husband and Max now 2+ years. (note the head of hair)
It has been a different year for us mainly on land and hopefully now we can get back to Evening Star located in Pittwater and do a bit of sailing in Pittwater and Northern NSW waters, hope to be at xmas time in Sydney with all the family, including Jane and Stew and Max and Guy and Alison

The Boat Show Sydney

 

 

 

We are back in Pittwater awaiting the arrival of Jane from Sg, enjoying some sailing in the Pittwater and surrounding areas, went to the Boat Show at Darling Harbour, the big luxury motor yacht was what I wanted till I saw the Selene 55 and thats me at the helm, all just kidding all I could afford was THE INVADER and the Ford Model A towing it, loved it!!!!

Evening Star some interior shots

The "galley" which is easy to work in a seaway and the lower shot is "The comfy saloon in honduras mahogony"

Jane back to Singapore

 

 

GOOD NEWS Jane now in remission and looking great after her big op, She recovered in Fairlight in our friends home in Fairlight, Barry and Inkeri.
So we will now get back to Evening Star ASAP.
Pics are Jane Stew and Max all looking good in our wonderful temporary home.
They all departed tonight for Singapore there home
Guy and Alison will be with us this weekend

Evening Star parked in Middle Harbour

 

 

 

Simon went over to NZ in early May to see the brothers in ChristChurch, great to see them all, the house is the old family home in Fendalton and the pics are brothers Peter and his wife Lesley and Michael

Cotton Tree Bay Cowan Creek Nr Bobbin Head

 

 

We are relaxing, again you say, glorious March weather day after day 25 to 27 degrees, cool nights and water temperature 24 degrees. wind never more than 10 knots from the North East.
Yacht looks and feels great
Had friends on board last week end for the CCCA sailaway at Jerusalem Bay, sadly we missed the RPAYC cruising division sailaway the previous week end.
Exciting news Jane Stew and Max are arriving on this Sunday for a week and then returning to Singapore.
We are leaving Pittwater on about the 3rd of April and relocating to Middle Harbour for a month or 2.
These pics are in the early morning while we were in Cotton Tree Bay looking over towards Lords Bay, it is really a glorious place bush rocks and water and no pollution and not too many speed boats

Parramatta

 

 

We had the Sub serviced its getting ancient like us and nneeds the odd service as bits fall off, we had it booked in for a few hours in Manly, so we decided to purchase tickets for the old slow Manly ferry to the city, DELIGHT they now take Victorian Seniors Cards so we got all day tickets for buses ferries and trains for $2.50 each, what a great deal.
On arrival at Circular Quay we decided to try out the River Cat to Parramatta, a great experience but a bit daunting at the end in a narrow channel and not very attractive.
The Trip itself was fascinating, we even saw our old and first home in Woolwich,
The pics are of the arrival and a view down the narrow channel.

Morning Bay Pittwater

 

We departed from the RPAYC after my birthday, met up with the crew from GUSTO a yacht similar to Tony Bates Northshore, and set off for our glorious week relaxing in the Hawkesbury River, alas not to be, howling gales arrived and no sun and continuous rain absolute YUK, so we went to Morning Bay sometimes known as Towlers Bay and relaxed on the CCCA mooring for many days playing Rumi Kub and Scrabble and lots of red wine.
Now today at last SUN and here we are looking at Tim Wilsons beautiful water cottage with its army of boats.
Off to Melbourne next week with Evening Star on the RPAYC swing mooring, maybe 5 weeks.

Birthday Boy

 
At the RPAYC on 13 Feb, 72 today, wow a free dinner at the Club

Arrived back in Pittwater

 

FINALLY after 4.5 months of travel, weather frustration and family illness we arrived back in Pittwater NSW.
We departed Mooloolaba in a howling SE wind last Sunday 1 Feb 2009 and motor sailed to Peel Island in Morton Bay a lovely gut on the North side, peaceful night and then took off in the morning down the inland waterway, fuelled at Horizon Shores thank god for the bow thruster coming alongside in 25 kts. Then through the shallows at Jacobs Well, and hurrah Simon did not touch or run aground.
Then we had 1 night in Bums Bay near Southport and departed the next day Tuesday 3 Feb at 1330 and took off for Coffs Harbour with all sails up and 5 knots of easterley all the way so had a tiny bit of the iron headsail.
As we arrived near Coffs Harbour we decided to sail on to Pittwater, Now no wind so motored upto 10 Knots SOG with southerly set, Arrived without incidence at Pittwater Thursday 5 Feb at 1330.
Then we relaxed in Towlers Bay on the CCCA mooring and in the morning reset the profurl booms that needed adjustments after the refurbishment.
The pic is Evening Star with the NEW racing stripe

Singapore for Xmas

 

 

We arrived 2 days ago for Xmas in Singapore with Jane Stew and Max, here is a happy pic in the appt in Singapore, and a closer shot of Jane with THE wig, makes her look like a teenager.
Stew and Jane are getting married on the 4th of January, great excitement here with Xmas and the wedding preparations

Evening Star nearly finished

 

Well ES is back in the water in the YC Marina in Mooloolaba now for 2 weeks, still got to fit the sails and a few touch ups, the new rubbing straik is super dooper, back on the yacht in mid January

Mooloolaba

 

 

 

 

Julie had a birthday today not a big one, so off we went in the dingy our taxi here to the fish mongers, great shot of the owner and the skipper and the trawlers in the background we watched enormous tuna being unloaded for 2 hours from 1 ship, then back to Evening Star on the hard, we are living on ES, bit tricky.

Back in Mooloolaba

 

 

 

We are back in Kawana Waters at Lawries Marina, we cant get Evening Star hauled out till 21 October and there are a few things to do as we have not been out of the water for 24 months, will keep you posted.
MEANWHILE here are some happy shots of Max my grandson who is going gangbusters and a pic of him with Jane and Stew post op, (Jane is meanwhile getting good post operation reports so we have our fingers crossed) Max eating sashime which he loves and a family pic on our night of departure with Janes new picture in the background, Guy is arriving in Singapore for a couple of weeks tomorrow 16 October.

Singapore

 

 

 

 

We rushed up to Singapore from Mooloolaba to be with Jane for the big op, have been with her in the hospital and now she is home and starts chemo next week, we are staying here till 17 October, Pics include the pool at the gorgeous appartment, our walking around Singapore and my grandson Max and a pic of Jane the day She got out of hospital

Maryborough again

 

 

 

 

We are having a week here exploring this historical town (City) Thats us in the River on a mooring, shingle bottom so hard to anchor and the river runs at at least 2-3 knots either way, bit muddy at present, then another shot in the misty mornings with beautiful mid 20's days afterwards, this is the delightful lady that took us around the more interesting sites including the Town Hall, Queens Park, the old post office and the fascinating pubs almost on every corner, the last pic is a gaggle of bollards, a copy of the Geelong ones.
So much to see here you could spend weeks here, hope to leave for the Sandy Straits and Garries Anchorage on Thursday 18 September

Sandy Straits

 

 

 

 

We departed from Bundaberg and here is a pic of the hummock where we lived 35 years ago, then into the Sandy straits light SE winds, anchored at the King Fisher Resort its a beautiful Eco Resort the best I have seen, notice our yacht got closer to the shore so as a stronger on shore breeze came in at 15 to 20 knots NW we decided to move to the Susan River Mouth, where we are beautifully sheltered, hope to go up to Maryborough tomorrow Friday

Arriving Bundaberg ships that pass you in the daytime

 

 

Well we were supposed to get beautiful 20 knot norterlies so we rolled out of Pancake Creek at 0630 and guess what no wind till 1530 as we arrived at Bundaberg, we had an awful swell on the side so just motored with main and mizzen flopping, NOT a good one.
So on arrival this incredible schooner or is a yawl appeared beside us!!!!
Tomorrow up the river for supplies and arest at the Mid Town Marina, we enjoy it up there lots of yachties and so close to town.

Author Extraordinaire Alan Lucas and his wife Patricia

 

Yesterday sailing vessel "Soleares" arrived in Pancake Creek with Alan and Patricia Lucas, Alan is the world famous author of many books and the well known Australian Coastal Pilot Books, including Cruising the Coral Coast and Cruising the NSW Coast We had a cuppa with them and an enjoyable chat about our travels.

Pancake Creek and the Lighthouse

 

 

 

 

Left the yacht in Pancake Creek and had a leisurely 1 hour walk up to the Bustard Head Light House, superbly preserved and still a working light,, great views toward Seventeen Seventy 1770, and towards Jenny Lind Creek.
Mind the cobwebs and big spiders spanning the walk.

Wild Life at Bustard Head

 

 

 

We walked up to the Lighthouse and on the way, tripped over a big lizard, a Kookaburra and Julie propped on a nigger head

Farewell GKI, passing Cape Capricorn

 

 

We departed about 0600 from GKI Leeks Beach (what a rolly anchorage) on our way south the first pic is the early sun on the SE corner of GKI, we Proceeded on in light SE winds past Cape Capricorn the next pic with the lighthouse houses perched on the top then through about 30 ships in the Gladstone Paddock and then to Pancake Creek in the Inner Anchorage, here for a couple of days

On our way to GKI

 

Here is the Skipper J Simon busy at the helm with light winds, however we were cheating the autopilot had full control.
Beautiful Day light SE winds so we were motor sailing.
Note how good I am about UV protection, I have to be after all the Scc's.
Photo taken by owner!!!!!

Island Head Creek to Port Clinton

 

 

We departed Island Head Creek at about 0750 after getting a good weather report so as soon as we were outside the head, we had the usual washing machine with agitator swell and really confused, as we proceeded south en route to GKI we both looked at each other and said lets give this away and go into Port Clinton a beautiful anchorage good to 35 knots SE and NE and good holding, so I guess we will have to play Runikub a board game, the pic is the Dome and Split Island group near Pearl bay which is the second shot its in the distance, would have been a good anchorage but my guess is rolly today.
Hope for GKI tomorrow

Curlew Island to Island Head Creek

We had an uncomfortable rolly night on the Nth Side of the Curlew anchorage (after leaving Mackay), little or no wind but a tidal surge and low swell and did we roll YES and hard to sleep. I tried putting down the keel and the mizzen up and down to no avail.
Took off at first light about 0610 on an 85 miler to Island Head Creek (Average speed 6.7 knots with 1 to 2 knots against us most of the way, smooth waters NO WIND again, IM now a motor boat!!!!) and decided as the forecast was for strong SE winds to try out the Cyclone anchorage right at the bottom of the navigable water The pic looks as though we have plenty of water but only 100 metres upstream and 50 metres either side we go down to 1.7 meters, we have been plumbing the depths in our dingy, but its a wonderful anchorage we can sleep well, I do reccomend it to all yachties.
Hope to get underway on Tuesday 26 August when the grib files and BOM indicate lighter winds so maybe get down to GKI Great Keppel Island, just off Yeppoon. You see our exact position on Google maps on http://skipr.net/whereis/index.php?id=70 (thanks Jane B )and click on where is Evening Star

Mackay and going South to Curlew Island

 

 

 

 

Took off from Mackay this Morning after a quick walk around the Marina Dock, salivating on the Nordhavn Motor Yacht I need when I retire from sailing and another 2 beautiful Yachts cruising the world on the Bluewater Classic, Took off and through the paddock as they call it where there are 40 to 50 ships waiting to load Coal out of HayPoint near Mackay, had to give way to one on a collision course with us, my AIS has gone on the blink I wish I had it to work out the approach angles.
Motored all the way 45 NM light SE breeze not enough even to tack into it even with our centre board down and all the rag.

Departing from Port Newry

 

Under way again from Port Newry the pic is of Redcliff Island at dawn this morning, weather forecast OK in early morning, bound for the Mackay Marina, then in the last hour a gale hit us, was forecast later, 30 + knots on the nose and a very nasty short high swell, reminded me of Port Phillip Bay, Evening Star handled it well, and the 120HP headsail helped.
Now provisioning and will get underway when the strong winds abate

Farewell the Whitsundays

Well we are definitely on our way South now, departed early Saturday 16 August from Cid Harbour after 2 glorious days there, we left there in light winds at dawn and this shot is of PENTECOST ISLAND at Sunrise just north of Lindeman Island, we are resting while the strong winds doth blow at Burning Point on the western tip of Shaw Island, next stop Mackay Marina for fuel, water and provisions

Airlie Beach and windy as usual

h

Airlie Beach, shallow, noisy and this awful yacht in front of us dragged down on top of us in the night just stopped before it hit us, no one on board, 10 metres of 8 or 10 metre chain, coppers could not locate owner so we edged ahead in 25 knot gusts with yachts everywhere and cleared it and its anchor, WHEW!!! We have anchored further out still only 3 metres at normal low tide and hope now to leave in the morning wednesday for the whitsunday islands, fully provisioned.

Woodwark Bay

Arrived at Woodwark Bay (just North of Airlie Beach) 2 days ago and anchored in front of the beautiful tropical village home of I believe Jamie Packer, this is hearsay as it used to belong to Jodie Rich's wife, movies have been made here too, we did not get invited in for a cocktail, its a great place to go ashore for a brisk walk and lots of big fat oysters, we have had 2 nights relaxing here and moved today to the top of the bay to get digital TV reception to watch the opening ceremony of the Olympic Games. Tomorrow off to Airlie Beach and the Jack Hammers on the new Muddy Bay Marina development, we have to provision up etc and then have a few days in the Whitsundays, Whitehaven etc.

Bona Bay to Woodwark Bay

 

 

 

We had a great sail last night arriving at Bona Bay, Julie lost the lure on the fishing line, maybe a big one!!!! We were doing up to 8 knots with 14 knots of wind with an apparent angle of 60 degrees.
Sundowners ashore with other yachtees, and then off to Woodwark in the early morning planning lots of walks BBQ's on beach etc.
The Pics are passing Saddleback Island just after the Gloucester Passage and thats Gloucester Island just after we were through and the final pic is of Edwin Rock off the North Side of Grassy Island we were passing at low tide not a nice one to meet up at night.
We plan on a couple of days here and then into possibly Airlie Beach for provisions

Whales everywhere

 

We are still in Horseshoe Bay on Magnetic Island, on our way sighted LOTS of whales and we heard that the white whale is around here, its really tricky with cheap digital cameras to get a good shot of the whales, this one had just surfaced with its calf and they frollicked all around us for 5 minutes just off Hinchinbrook, we leave in the morning Monday 4 August for Cape Upstart.

Dunk Island to Magnetic Island

 

 

 

 

Off we go rollicking along at 8 knots (departed at 0600 about 90+ miles)NO wind at all, but we may get a sea breeze this afternoon, WOW its hot see the skipper in sun protection.
Passed Hinchinbrooke Island on the outside, the Island shot is Combe Island in the Family Group at 0710, I was in Ramsey Bay when the shot was taken at the wheel, poked our nose into Zoe Bay, looks delicious, saw whales frolicking most of the pics are along the way.
Beautiful cloud formations. Hope to meet up in Magnetic Island Horseshoe Bay with Breakaway and Follow the sun

Goin South

 

We departed Cairns on 30 July 2008, the gribs I use Ugrib indicate very light Southerlies for next few days, in fact we had a bit of westerly this morning, last night we anchored at Fitzroy Island with our good friends on Aprodite and Wybalena, a jolly old night was had by all. Our sad farewell to FNQ.
Departed this morning for Mourilyan and had the line out and got and LOST 3 mackerel.
The RPA site is tracking us on Google Maps, (Jane is pleased!!!!)

Farewell Cairns

 

 

 

 

After a glorious time in Cairns, good food, wine and company, we are on our way South the weather window for the next few days is perfect, here are a few shots of ARC round the world yachts near us in the Marlin Marina and farewelling Alison and Guy at there holiday at Peppers in Palm Cove

In Cairns and the Daintree

 

 

 

 

We are now in Cairns in the Marlin Marina whilst the strong winds doth blow, Guy and Alison had a day in the Daintree while we enjoyed walking around Cairns again, and had a magnificent fresh seafood lunch
Plan to leave the Marina on Monday the forecast looks good and do some reef hopping for a week or 2

Dunk Island

 

 

 

 

Lots of bush walks, noticed the damage by Cyclone Larry, the day facilities rebuilt and not as nice as the old one, trees and views better than Magnetic Island, the Cessna Caravan air services were very fast and efficient. We anchored in front of the day facilities not many yachts around, in fact less yachts all the way north, quite noticeable.

Never smile at a crocodile

 

 

On the good ship Evening Star (see the Hinckley Plaque) we passed into Gayundah Creek in the Hinchinbrook on the south bank appeared this croc, it then slithered into the creek, it liked the look of Evening Star, and on the way out there it was again.

Hitchinbrook Channel the weather is YUK

Arrived in the Hinchinbrook Channel after overnighting at Orpheus Island on Lucas best anchorage it was awful a blustery southerly change arrived and we just got bounced around for 5 hours, no sleep etc, on passage to Lucinda the visibility was very restricted and the radar was a great help with the chart plotter and came over the bar with 1 metre under the keel with a 1/2 metre swell, tricky with the low visibility.
The pic shows Haycock Island it really is very YUCKY here continuous rain and forecast for next 2 days, we are missing our sunny 26 to 28 degree days, having 2 nights later in the week in the Port Hinchinbrook Marina, ahh more red wine!!!!

Magnetic Island Guy riding the Horses

 
 
 
 
We are back on Magnetic Island and with Guy and Alison, Guy decided on a ride on the horses and swimming with them, we watched.
Alison and Guy did the full walk around Radical and the Forts so another beautiful day 26 degrees and we are off to Orpheus Island tomorrow

Farewell to Maggie Island

 

 

 

 

We had a final walk around the forts that defended Townsville in WW2, fascinating as I was in the artillery in NZ in a 25 pounder field battery, the guns here were 105 mm not that big and rotated around the concrete circles in the picture on rubber tyres, ahem not sure of accuracy. Had great views of the bays, the weather has been glorious 28 every day and water usually 24. Departed from Horseshoe Bay early on Thursday 3 July and now in the Marina for a few days provisioning and getting ready for Guy and Alison

Max is shopping

 

This is a delightful shot of my grandson Max who is 17 months old shopping with his Mum and Dad in Singapore, checking out the new furniture

More walking on Magnetic Island

 

 

We walked round to Picnic Bay and saw these beautiful trees and a distant shot of Townsville, we are off over there on Thursday and will be in the Marina awaiting the arrival of Alison and Guy, and a few small jobs (yachts!!!!)

Walking on Magnetic Island

 

 

 

 

Wow these walks are vigorous just what 70 year olds need.
We took off from Horseshoe Bay and straight up the rocky path to Radical Bay 40 minutes of steep rocky climbs, we will feel it tonight.
Radical is a beauitiful bay with interesting rocks and beautiful beach.

Sunset at Magnetic Island

 
 
 
Our BBQ on shore at Maggie was highlighted by this magnificent sunset, can you see the green flash

The Hilton and the Red Baron at Maggie

 
 
See the next blog for the full story.

Beautiful Magnetic Island

 

 

 

 

Here we are approaching the winter solstice and its a balmy 27 degrees on Horseshoe Bay on Magnetic Island, a Saturday, so a few more people around and the Red Baron cute float plane very busy ($300) for around trip for 2 around the Island and you can take a 2 person jet ski around the island for the same price, lots of fun, amazing walks along the beach and to the other bays and WW2 fortresses etc.
Its a wonderful way to wind down after the hectic rush over the past 6 weeks. Pics include yachtees on the beach and the Hilton Hotel an old pontoon where a local identity has been living rent free for yonks no rates nothing and no one can get rid of him, but beware dont stop and talk to him you will be ear bashed for at least an hour.
We have lots of yachtee gossip here!!!!!! THis evening a BBQ on the beach with the curlews (thats a noisy bird)

Arriving at Magnetic Island

 

 

 

 

Well after a rush up the coast of Queensland and FNQ we have arrived at Magnetic Island, we departed from Cape Upstart at 0515 Thursday 19 June and arrived at Maggie Horsehoe Bay at 1400 same day (75nm), light SE winds all the sails and a bit of the old Ford as well, on the way we passed this beautiful gaff rigged yacht registered in Belgium with no one on watch, they must have sailed a long way!!! 2 lovely shots of our favorite resting place in Horseshoe Bay, surprised to run into Nankeen another CCCA member, Dennis and Chris who are both well, so we had a wonderful sundowner and reminisce about how we both started GOING NORTH 6 years ago.
We plan to be here for 10 days to 2 weeks, glorious walks on the beaches and the hills, will cruise around some of the Bays too.
Our Son Guy and his wife Alison arrive later and we are off then to Cairns via Hinchinbrook, Dunk etc
Evening Star is behaving herself just needs a good tub to get rid of the salt.

Upstart Bay on the way

 

 

 

 

Departed from Bona Bay at a leisurely 0800 and with a nice 15 to 20 knot SW off we went and passed the coal loader at Abbots Point North of Bowen, with a view of the electric winch on the way, then arrived at Upstart Bay in NE winds up to 25 knots anchorecwith my trusty Manson Supreme it gets better all the time, cracked open a red wine and the FULL moon rose nearby as the sunset, what could be better, off to Magnetic Island tomorrow 71 NM's

Airlie Beach departure

 

 

 

Underway from Airlie Beach 0900 in 15 to 20 knot SE winds beautiful conditions pic shows Airlie in the distance and approaching Grimstone Point keep clear for bommies, a smaller yacht going slowly, then through the Gloucester Passage and another pic in the distance the old Montes Resort and in the distance the new Eco Resort, we have been peopled out so elected Bona Bay on Gloucester Island with beautiful shelter, dolphins frollicking etc arrived at 1210, relaxing now and doing another shorter leg to Cape Upstart tomorrow 45 nautical miles, then a long one to Magnetic Island 72NM awaitng our Son Guy and his wife Alison who will be with us for 2 weeks cruising slowly to Cairns.

Bundaberg to Airlie Beach

 

 

We finally got away from Bundy after the LOW rain depression eased up and departed for Pancake Creek with a friend on Russel Dean 3 a salar 40, overnighted there and took off at 0600 for Great Keppel Island, the resort is now closed, we rolled around a bit so took off early again for Island Head Creek, the military exercises start later this week. We ended up there for 3 nights and on the last day a Boobie Bird waddled after flying on to our yacht and just stayed with us for 24 hours he wanted to stay for ever, he did not mind me working all around him even stepping over him.
We finally had to shoo him off gently, (reference in Google to Boobie is http://www.google.com.au/search?q=boobie+bird&sourceid=navclient-ff&ie=UTF-8&rlz=1B3GGGL_enAU263AU263 )
We then departed for the Percy's and anchored overnight at NE Island and rolled around horribly in SE winds 25 kts so got up at midnite and sailed through to Shaw Island burning Point a beautiful anchorage and yesterday took off for Airlie beach in front of the Yacht Club a beautiful sail up the Whitsunday Passage and realised we were in Charter Company, engines breaking down, yachts running aground, discovering that the yacht was 100 metres on the wrong side of a lateral mark, ouch for the coral and the yacht.

Bundaberg East Coast Low STORMS

 

 

 

 

Well the strong winds hath blown, we came up the river to the Down Town Marina beautifully sheltered in the GALE winds, they are continuing today 1 June hopefully we can leave for Pancake Creek omn Wednesday or Thursday,
the few pics are in the gloomy Burnet River, note the Ginornmous Icebreaker beside us a fellow NZer owns it a poor sheep farmer from NZ.
Only 7 day sails to Magnetic Island off Townsville hope to be there at the end of June 2008.

Garries Inlet

 

Another view of Garries and you can see the Dingo smiling at us, waiting for a crayfish pot so he can tear out the bait. Ahem.

Mooloolaba and Wide Bar and Garries Inledt

 
 
 
 
After 2 weeks in Mooloolaba after they found another 3 skin cancers (SCC's) on his leg after the stitches were removed we took off for the Great Sandy Straits, the first Pics are approaching the Wide Bay Bar, we had a good crossing, then came up to Garries Inlet, and you can see our cockpit on the way up in Auto Pilot Mode, beautiful Sunset and we nestled up close to Fraser Island, we were attcked last night by a group of Bats and there was Sh-- all over the yacht, off in a few moments to just South of the King Fisher Resort on Fraser Island, the weather permitting tomorrow Wednesday to Bundaberg and shelter there for the strong winds and swells forecasted.

Gold Coast we arrived!!!!

 
 
 
Well we left Iluka Yamba last night about 3 ish (pm) and took off in beautiful weather not much wind in fact we never had any more than 5 to 6 knots all the way. It was like a washing machine and soooo rough, we just hung on it was wind only 8 knots against the swell, NW against SW, and would you believe its perfect today with a 15 knot S Easter, thats life
Pic is approaching the Gold Coast at 6.00 am bit shaky then a better shot of the Coast and then relaxing in Bums Bay (The Stadium)
Here for a few days now

Yamba farewell

 
 
We arrived at Iluka Yamba testerday 1 May at about 1400 after departing from Coffs Harbour at 0630, very mild weather, and good bar crossing, rested up in the peaceful pond outside the hotel, we did not go ashore, preparing now to leave for the Seaway on the Gold Coast, hope to anchor in the Stadium aka Bums Bay.
Photos are from the yacht towards the fishing fleet and the other is to the rustic old pub.

Coffs Harbour farewell

 
 
 
We rollicked up from Coasters Retreat in Pittwater departing Monday 28 April at about 0800, Gale warnings etc but the front went thru on Sunday night and off we went, ostensibly to Newcastle but decided to go on and on Tuesday at 1630 we arrived at Coffs Harbour, a big trip with almost dead calms and then 48 knot gusts, initially a beautiful sail but had to do some motoring later.
We arrived in Coffs and crashed Julie for 12 hours.Today Wednesday we walked and enjoyed Coffs and the picture attached is our farewell shot of the sunset and Evening Star and the Mutton Bird Hill behind the Marina.
We depart for Iluka early AM and weather permitting we will leave on Friday PM and overnight to Southport at the Gold Coast, More chats from there

20 April 08

 
 
 
 
Here we are still in Sydney our grandson Max is just walking, Peter my big brother arrived over from NZ to check out Aussie Architecture and Jane was off today to NZ for some googling then off we went to fishmarket

Beautiful Smiths Creek

 
 
 
 
Here we are at anchor what a glorious peaceful spot

On our way to Smiths Creek

 
 
 
 
On our way we passed Cottage Point and amazing houses perched on the Hills and then into tranquil Smiths Creek right at the end

The Z Force Marker

 
Sorry the marker did not appear in the blog below, here it is

Up the Hawkesbury River

 
 
 
 
Well we are nearly ready, glorious weather, but no wind, we are spending 4 to 5 days in the Hawkesbury River up all those glorious places in Cowan Creek, Bobbin head etc etc.
We had an overnight in Refuge Bay the waterfall was running but very chilly, the pic shows Evening Star with the new covers and the removeable sun shade, we can even motor with it up, the new sail covers area NEAT fit to. We noted that the Z Force trained here to attack Singapore in the Krait and a great marker tells the story.
We are off to Melbourne by car in 10 days for Easter and a reunion for Guy and Alisons 1st year anniversary.
Then a quick provision and await a weather window to depart from Pittwater to FNQ.

Australia Day, Max nearly walking

 
 
 
We departed from The Quays Marina at the end of January and started the repairs etc at the RPAYC just over the water, Australia Day arrived 26 January and Julie cooked the Aussie charts on our BBQ.
Meanwhile lots of visits to Jane and Stew in Randwick and Max is NEARLY walking

Sailaway was Hallets now Coasters

 

 

We heard that the CCCA sailaway was cancelled with our awful February weather so some of us about 10 yachts met at Coasters Retreat and we went ashore under cover for a great supper and next morning coffee, but it rained in bucket loads.

Party time and farewell

 
 
 
 
Arrived up at Hellie house in the Hunter Valley for a sumptuous dinner with old friends, included a sword to remove the champagne corks, it even works with Aussie Fizz, A 4 course feast.

Lots of preparation

 
Well the New Year 2008 started with lots of "things" to repair, fix or replace to prepare ourselves and Evening Star for our 6th year going North again, we are really trying to reach Lizard Island this year.
Our list included
Service gas stove
New Dodgers and Biminis and clears and shade clothes see the pic above, a really beautiful soothing colour
Repair heat exchanger on main engine
Install new telephone and internet system(Ericcson W25) and antenna
Rigging check and some new halliards and repositioning etc
replace small alternator on gen set
Install water release on liferaft
New Motherboard and rejig our Dell computer
Purchase new emergency rigging tool
Installed upgrade of SOB with grib overlays
AND so it goes on
But we look as though we may get away on time in early April.

128 km Sydney Radar Loop

128 km Sydney Radar Loop
The wettest and coldest February on record in Sydney, hopefully it will clear up for March and next weekend

New Years Eve 2007/8

 

 

 

 

We had a berth at the CYC and watched the fireworks from Athol Point, 10 of us on board including Nick and his fiance, then all back to Janes House for a swim to cool off

Audi Day

 

 

 

Alison decided on a Audi day for Guy for his Birthday, they had agreat day in the mountains and we all tried it out, the seating I mean

Boxing Day 2007

 

 

 

 

We went out on Tony Bates racing Yacht Viva La Vita, and watched the start of the Sydney Hobart yacht race with a million other yachts lots of fun, but very bumpy on the harbour with all the wash.
Had a nice party back on land at the end of the day at Middle Harbour Yacht Club

More Xmas 2007

 

 

 

Jane and Stew and Ashley, Max, and Osama

Pre Xmas and Xmas 2007

 

 

 

 

We had a busy time getting ready for Xmas including a brief trip to Melbourne including the RCM Xmas Party and Opera in the Myer Music Bowl.
Back to Sydney and helped host Xmas Lunch at Jane and Stews home in Randwick, Our Friends Tony and Wendy arrived and Ashley too, Guy and Alison from Melbourne and of course Max was Nr 1, Osama Bin Boag paid a short visit too, a hilarious and happy Xmas

Pittwater just North of Sydney

We left Iluka at 7.00 am last Monday and then through the day and night and arrived at Port Stephens at 1600 in a howling westerly and went into the Marina the most expensive on the east coast our yacht $90 for one night YUK. Rested the next day on a mooring and took off for Pittwater no wind initially and awful lumpy southerly swell we were going South, We should have waited another day. Julie was right about that.
Now in Towlers Bay or Morning Bay in Pittwater a glorious spot lots of feathered birds kookas etc. (arrived on Thursday PM)
Plan to stay in Pittwater area until we leave for NZ by airplane.
We will keep you posted.

Iluka Yamba and the Clarence River

 

 

Arrived in Iluka Yamba and stayed 2 nights in the Iluka Harbour, quaint old pub but full of holiday makers, we arrived to find illustrious company in Alan & Tricia Lucas, Alan writes and continues to update his Cruising the Coral Coast and the NSW Coast. Strong winds have been forecast so we decided to go up the Clarence River again and we have tied up at the floating pontoon in the village (even free 240 volt power, shops and all we need right beside the yacht.
We are planning to be in Sydney weather permitting by the end of October.
The Yacht is Alan Lucas's Soleares a beautiful ketch and the other shots are along the Clarence River, wealthy cane farmers!!!!

Mooloolaba & Bums Bay Gold Coast

 

 

 

We parked at the MYC its still not operating but the Marina Berths are magnificent, we over nighted to the Seaway at the Gold Coast, bit lumpy from Mooloolaba to Cape Morton, sailed all the way whata change, Pic is Evening Star in Mooloolaba and the others are looking at the Gold Coast we are near Seaworld. hope to leave tonight 2 October 100 NM to Yamba Illuka.

Stonehaven to Bundaberg

 

 

 

We departed Stonehaven 10 days ago when Northerly winds were forecast and took off for Port Newry one of our favourites Motored all the way UGH. Then the next morning took off for Curlew Island, sailed initially but mainly motored with little wind, anchored on west side anda bit rolly, then off to Island head Creek, beautiful motoring, thats sarcasm, nice calm night, then off the next morning to GKI (Great Keppel Island) saw heapos of whales and the pics are passing the lighthouse at the Cape Capricorn and the Islands around. Then to Pancake Creek overnight and thence to Bundaberg at the Mid Town Marina for afew small maintenance items, Hope to leave today 23 September for the Port of Bundaberg for an early departure to Garries Anchorage weather forecast may delay us for 24 hours.
Last photo is on the marina at Mid town Marina it was very empty.

Bowen

 

 

 

 

We arrived in Bowen on last Sunday after a quick sail from Bona Bay, Same old Bowen except there is a new landing stage very swish near the yacht Club, lovely murals and the Grand View Pub which serves wagyi steaks 2 for 1 on Sunday Lunch, delicious, not sure if we are going North or South now

Whitehaven Picnic Day

 

We had the day at the Whitehaven Picnic Day, we had 4 days there and walked and snorkelled most days, Weather deteiorated and we took off for Cid Harbour, could not catch up with the Winners Viva La Vita (won an Audi)and had a great Lunch on Skie owned by Peter Sheppard its a Nordhavn 53 footer. Beautiful.
The pic is us just after the 300 yachts departed and thats Whitehaven Behind the yacht.

Jimmy Buffet

 

 

 

 

The Parrot head street party was held in Airlie Beach during the race week at Airlie before the Hammo Week, thats us and our friends Gillian on Margarita won the prize for best dressed,
After arriving at Airlie Beach and anchoring outside the Whitsunday Yacht Club we reprovisioned and then around to Woodwark Bay one of our favourites, by the way we undestand J Packer has purchased the beautiful Island House from J Rich.
We spent 5 days there lots of fun and then back to Airlie Beach for more provisions and staying here during Hammo Week and hope to meet up with Tony and Wendy on Viva la vita at the Hammo Beach Party on Thursday at Whitehaven Beach.

King Fisher to Airlie Beach

       
We arrived in Airlie Beach yesterday, alls wells from King Fisher Resort we proceeded to Urangan and reprovisioned, then on to Bundaberg and over nighted in the Burnett River and left early in the morning for Pancake Creek, mostly light winds and thats Julie relaxing as we proceeded North, from Pancake we went to GKI thats Great Keppel Island and we rolled around on the anchorage, we were in company with Pampero an Atkinson 15 metre, on then to Yeppon Marina to get get a new fresh water pump for the galley then onto Island Head creek, no phone or internet coverage very peaceful, then onto South Percy Island we rollicked along and the pics show us with reduced sails, and Simon liftin g the anchor then onto Scawfell Island, beautiful Anchorage in Nr 1 Anchorage then on to Shaw Island and got nice oysters in Burning Point. Then we shot up to Airlie Beach and resting here for a few days while the Schoolies on Steroids at Hammo race away, Jimmy Buffet singing here on Monday, lots of good farmers markets tomorrow.
Hope toi leave for Townsville next week, keep you posted, The Evening Star at Sunset was a pretty shot

King Fisher Resort

 

 

 

 

Arrived here last week beautiful weather and great walks and lots of Dingoes, then off to Urangan, a terrific town and part of Hervey Bay City???
Now on our way to Pancake creek and spend 2 nights there
Great to have days of warm weather BUT NO WIND

Garries Anchorage

 

We are now in the great Sandy Straits, the coldest time we have up here since sailing, the Gold Coast was 0 degrees this morning, this shot was at 5.30pm beautiful warm days while the sun is out, planning to go to King Fisher Resort tomorrow Saturday, weather permitting, thats on the top end of Fraser Island, seen dingoes on the beach last night and no mud crabs yet but hoping

Grand Dad Simon and Max

 

At long last a pic of Simon and Max, Max was watching the last race of the Americas Cup, pity about Team Emirates New Zealand the last race was sooooo close

The wow factor at Randwick

 

 

 

 

Jane and Stew have just finished the Pool and back yard it is truly magnificent note the feature waterfall it goes all the time and lit at night, the whole property is transformed!!!!!

On our way back to Evening Star

 

 

We are on our way back to Mooloolaba and Evening Star, we had a week in the Apartment in Middle Park Melbourne, cold oh so cold, but we had lots of fun with Guy and Alison and Geoff and Bev Durham, Al's parents, it was great to get back under way Northwards and we stopped in Randwick Sydney with our daughter Jane and Max and Stew, we are leaving for the Gold Coast tomorrow Thursday, The pics are Julie Grandmum and Jane with Max, a happy BIG boy

Departing the Gold Coast

 

Well we left the Gold Coast Bums Bay at 1600 and took off in no wind at 9 knots, we have a lovely clean hull and only at 1400 rpm.
But later the wind got up and it was rough around Cape Morton with a nasty chop and side swell and about 7 ships and trawlers at 0200, arrived at Mooloolaba at 0600 rough but quite a quiet bar crossing, resting now.

Arrived in Mooloolaba

 

 

 

We are now in the pond at Mooloolaba near Lawries awaiting a berth for a few small jobs to be completed an awful rough trip up from the Gold Coast, but all well, Julie now provisioning in the galley and other views from Evening Star

Going North again

 

 

We departed from Pittwater near Sydney at the end of April and sailed to Newcastle for an overnight stop and then off to Broughton Island on the North side overnight and rolled a bit then on to Camden Haven an absolutely beautiful river town, after 4 nights we departed for Yamba Illuka and stayed there for 2 days and now up the the mighty Clarence River for 4 or 5 days in company with Misty Blue another RPAYC and CCCA member, we stopped the Highway Nr 1 through the Harwood Bridge and now in Maclean

Alison and Guy The Wedding

Alison and Guy were married at the Melbourne Grammar Chapel and the reception was at the Fitzroy Gardens Kiosk on 24 March 2007, what a wonderful day it was, weather was cooler after 37 degrees the day before. The Bridal Party was great and the planning, speeches and delicious supper could not be beaten.
They are honeymooning in Japan.

Melbourne 2007

WE are now in Melbourne attended the Australian Grand Prix and the International Air show and Simon went to NZ for the family reunion, Jane and Max have arrived for the Wedding on Saturday

Botany Bay and Sydney departure

Last weekend I went out on an Ocean Going Tug for a different experience on Botany Bay and we assisted and parked a largish tanker, very interesting, with Captain Nossitter in command, an old yachting friend with a Catalina 38

Well our little sojourn in Sydney finishes tomorrow and we are off to Melbourne by car for a month. Evening Star is snug in Middle Harbour.
Wedding of Guy and Alison is on 24 March.

Sydney Harbour and Middle Harbour

Now in Sydney Harbour while Julie gets over her cold, we really enjoyed Bantry Bay and Sugar Loaf, the CCCA club moorings area boon, we are in Sydney till the here till 22 Feb 2007

Max our first Granchild

Here are the happy Mother Jane, Max and Father Stew

Hoorah we are Grandparents

 

 

On Monday Evening 22 January 2007 MAX our first grandchild was born, heres a pic of Jane our daughter just 1.5 hours after the delivery and a pic of GranMa Julie holding Max, we are all delighted including Stew the father

Sydney for Christmas and till Feb 2007

We arrived in Sydney in a welcoming deluge on Xmas Eve after a fast non stop passage from Mooloolaba departing Friday AM thats 2 days 9 hours , we travelled along the 100 Fathom line and got the Southerly set we were doing up tp 10.5 SOG and averaged 8 knots overall, few minor problems with sea sickness and a bolt came loose on the boom, we had upto 35 knots tail winds NW and NE,
Now in Quakers Hat Bay in Middle Harbour, had a great Xmas Day with Wendy and Tony in Mossman and of course with Jane and Stew only 3 weeks to go.

In the water at last

We launched the yacht back in the water in Mooloolaba on 15 December, still lots of cleaning up and all the usual little things go wrong when you are out of the water for 9-10 weeks. Unfortunately we cannot make Sydney for Xmas as the yacht wont be ready for another 7 to 9 days
The yacht really does look glorious however

Nearly ready to Launch

All the outside work is completed, just some painting inside to complete and the keel

Nearly ready ES in Yard

 
 
 
Nearly ready, only the Varnishing and the antifouling and keel check anda few bits and pieces inside to finish, hopefully back in water on Monday week then a week of organising down below and off to Sydney 

Evening Star naming

 
Well here we are getting closer, even the name is back on the stern 

Melbourne Cup at Alfies

 
I got a second on Pop Rock, we had a great lunch at Alfies on the beach at Caloundra, Trevor, Simon and Julie, certainly beats last year on the sand bank near Jacobs Well 

The Boot Top

 
 
Thats the near white line around the waterline, here is Julie on her Birthday 3 November checking it all out 

Deck Prep and Painting

 
Well we are onto the deck now looks like a ghost job, 3 coats on now 

The deck

 
 
 
We are well underway with the deck refurbishment, should be painting on Wednesday 

The WOW factor

 

Here we are the hull paint job it looks fantastic, now the woodwork and then the deck and inside the cabins too.
$$$$$$ 

Work Work Work

 
 
 
The sanding continues, wash up on Monday and hopefully gloss (Royal Blue) on Tuesday, meanwhile Julie works every day on the interior and fittings 

Brisbane River on a steam Yacht

 
 
So we had agreat day out on Sunday in the Brisbane River in this classic steam yacht , a nice diversion from the hard work on Evening Star 

Fine weather in Mooloolaba

Here we go, the high build and final primers are all on, whew now lots of sanding and then hopefully glossing with awl grip next week, royal blue, the good ship just looks great.
 

Moving on

We had a break from the Yacht and went up to Sunrise beach with our friend Dawnee, thats her personal flag from Bhutan in the backgroun.
But the work continues on Evening Star 

The refit

Well we are underway with the re paint, here is Julie after we re galvanised the anchor chain, the yacht is well advanced now and the primer is going on in 2 days then its Royal Blue a bit darker than before, the yard is great and a good team is making it happen 

Mooloolaba

We have arrived in Mooloolaba and the refit starts tomorrow 25 September, we will look a million dollars soon 

Hamilton Island Race Week

We got a second and a forth in the cruising, no spinnaker division, so got into the Stewart Crystal ware, thats part of the crew, Julie, Simon, and Guy at the presentaion ceremony, the Evening Star went well with 1 tonne of water and 1 tonne of diesel and the dingy on the davits, terrific fun at the regatta. Now on our way South to Mooloolaba 

Leaving Airlie Beach

We jst had 2 glorious Days at Whitehaven Beach absolutely perfect weather just hanging around the Whitsundays till the start of the Hammo week, we are staying at Hamilton Island for this week and should be fun with Guy here and our friends Tony and Wendy on Viva la Vita,

Strong winds today upto 30 knots SE trades 

Having a P

We are now in Bowen on the Piles, we had a few days at airlie Beach and while we were at the market I needed a P, this is the new urinal at the beach, a bit of fun. 

Maryborough

Hi we have arrived in King Fisher Resort, after 2 days in Maryborough
a marvellous old town really brimming with history, glorious lunch on the waterfront with our friends on Rose.
2 Days here then onto Bundaberg, while the trade winds doth blow.
See you in the Whitsundays 

Launching April 13

Finished in the yard, launched today, now at Bums Bay aka
the Stadium in the Gold Coast ,

Will have a few days in the Gold Coast then Nortwards to Moolollaba
and on to the Sandy Strait for a week then to Bundaberg 

ES in Dock for Bow thruster et al

Julie with the cut out for the new 10 inch vetus bow thruster, Im told it will push the QM 2, we should be back in the water about Easter, complete with the new Davits and sound system, the paint work has come up brilliantly, see you at the Hammo Race week

 

Getting Ready

We are departing Melbourne about Mid March 2006 for the Gold Coast, haul out fit bow thruster, davits and new GPS Plotter, then heading North in April

Hope to see you in the WhitSundays 

Big Boats

Recently the Diamond Princess an enormous cruise ship was at Station Pier Melbourne seen here from our apartment window in Middle Park, I just loved the Bow and Stern thrusters and the general easy handling, Yesterday the QE 2 was berthed here, now we are waiting for the QM2 and the Queen Victoria.
We are still cruising on Evening Star in the Whitsundays, we are off to Queensland as soon as Julie is fit and well 

The tapestry in the members area in the MCG

An amazing piece, it has many hundreds of Cricket, Football and significant events that have happened at the G since its inception in the mid 1800's 

A day at the G

Today 8 Feb we visited the MCG and saw the preparations for the Commonwealth Games, what a great amphitheatre, it has to be one of the greatest in the world seating 100K plus, had a great lunch in the Committee Room,
I heard they may have a Melbourne Tram floating over the arena for the opening ceremony 

Evening Star in the Whitsundays months 6-8 2006

We plan to be in the Whitsundays from June till
August 2006 complete with davits and bow thruster.
Fly into Hamilton Island and we will meet the flight,
stay a week and then back again
to chilly Sydney or Melbourne

Why dont you join us, let us know early as we are filling up with bookings.

simon@evening-star.com 

Guys 30th

Great Party for Guy in Melbourne, it was a surprise turned on by Alison, 35 turned up, here is Dad ginving the Eulogie 

More fun on Sydney Harbour

The team on Tony's new yacht on Sydney Harbour Boxing Day