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9 TH
EDITION
“ The Original” & staying FREE!
The Voice of the Great Barrier Reef
and drifting worldwide...
Tasmania!
Graham & Isabelle of SV “Quiet Achiever”
share their spectacular circumnavigation of the Apple Isle
What’s your story?
It can’t be about you without you!!!
Middle Percy Island continues to stir debate
and fascinate! We look at the dark side and
the best side, so you can decide. One thing
for sure though, cruising kids on an Island
Paradise is true magic!
Madelyn of SV “New Address” celebrates
her 5th Birthday at the A Frame.
*INSIDE*
SV “Rolling On”
2000 mile madien
voyage
Magnetic Island
Attracts Alistair Cole
Toilet Humour
Briar is Head-less
Long Tail
In Paradise (Surfers!?)
And more
Under-funded
Nonsense!

9TH EDITION
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“ The Original” & staying
The Voice of the Great Barrier Reef
Bob Norson: Editor, journalist, advertising, photographer, computer &
marine heads technician
Kay Norson: Production Manager & guideline apprentice
Ph/Fax: (07) 4785 1031
P.O. Box 454, Bowen, Qld. 4805
email: gem@boweninternet.com.au
ABN: 37 718 914 773
All text and drawings in this publication are copyrighted by Robert
Norson, except contributions where noted. Submissions of contributions
infers permission to print. Contributions may be edited. Opinions
expressed by contributors are not necessarily that of The Coastal
Passage, & the editor assumes no responsibility for the accuracy or
validity of information.
Special thanks to our friends and family for your endless support, editing
help, and putting up with our constant babbling about TCP...
Page 2 The Coastal Passage #9 2004
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CONTRIBUTORS THIS ISSUE:
Kerry Ashwin: “Dikera”
Colleen Burns: “La Passarola”
Alistair Cole: “September Morn”
Steve George: “Oasis II”
Graeme Hurst: “Quiet Achiever”
Briar Jensen Crew for now...
Alan Obrien: “Hot Water”
Iain Rae “Xtra Chilli”
Keith Roll “Rolling On”
Frank Stoove “Escondido”
Sandy Way “Catchus”
THE PERCY SAGA CONTINUES………….!
by Bob Norson
I have found that it is the rare cruiser that
cares much for the goings on in Hollywood
or the latest theory on the demise of
Dianna, but mention Percy Island and
everyone has an opinion or interest of
some kind. Besides the physical beauty of
the place, the richness in the characters
that have left their marks there perhaps
keeps the interest going. Whatever it is
Andy returned from England “in a real
state” said Cathryn, “a miracle they
allowed him on the plane.” Andy was taken
to hospital where Cathryn reports that
after just a few days of medication his
memory returned and his general health
improved. By January 2003 Cathryn had
quit her job and became a carer for Andy.
rd
Andy died May 3 2003.
there is no denying the impact our feature
in # 6 has had on the coast. The requests
for back copies of that issue have nearly
depleted the supply. We are down to a
dozen or so and when they are gone we
will only be able to provide copies off our
A3 printer (expensive!) or order a whole
new print run (more expensive!). Having
said all that, it would be very helpful to
have read that account prior to this small
piece. Ask around if you haven't. I know
there are a bunch of hoarders out there
with TCP shoved into dry corners of the
boat….if you ask really nice maybe…….
THE LEGAL MESS…..
Cathryn Radclyff alleges that Andy was
duped into making the sale of the island
with false promises. Andy was supposed
to have told her that he was promised
“hundreds of thousands of dollars” that
she claims he did not get. There was also a
Land Rover that was to be given to Andy
that didn't happen. Cathryn said that
Andy had never received the car and when
asked about it Mick cotter had told her that
the car had to be returned because the
windows leaked. Cathryn went on to
describe a document that Andy said he
The information in this article is based on
an interview with Cathryn Radclyffe,
Andrew Martins cousin, carer in his last
years and apparently, executor and
beneficiary from his last Will and
Testament.
had received as assurance from M. Cotter
that the island would be looked after to
Andy's satisfaction. That being an
undated contract to sell the island back to
Andy for the same $10. Cathryn said that
During Andy's last trip to the island he
found the island in decay and wanted to
Cathryn was very young when Andy visited
her family home in England and has little
recollection of those days. As she grew
older Andy had made the move to
Australia. She was impressed by his family
reputation that she recalls from her
teenage years, “He was romantically
mysterious.” He had won a medal in the
Olympics for the Pentathlon in the forties
and later had become “the black sheep of
“buy” the island back but was refused.
Cathryn reported that Andy had many
conversations with her where he
expressed his regret over having made the
deal with M. Cotter and is supposed to
have told her that he had been
misinformed concerning the Hicklings and
wished to make amends with them by
rewarding them for their years of work on
the island.
the family,” a title that passed to her, she
remembers with some pride. When her
mother died in 1982 she wrote to Andy at
“this wonderful, mysterious Percy Island.”
They exchanged letters about the new
testament of the Bible, a subject that Andy
encouraged. It was 1987 before Cathryn
finally made it to Percy Island. She stayed
the 90 days her visa allowed. Her first
experience at west Bay was a common and
enchanting one as she disembarked from
the supply boat to join a German couple on
the beach for a fish meal near the A frame
I have received via fax, documents
supplied by Cathryn Radclyff that do seem
interesting. One is a “TRANSFER”
document, filled out with the legal
description of Middle Percy Island and
listing M. Cotter as the Transferor and
Andrew Martin as the Transferee for a
“consideration” of $10. The document
has the initials MJC written as the
transferor's signature. There are no other
signatures on the document, including
witnesses.
while she waited for Andy to show.
Cathryn visited again in 1994 and soon
after married a local yachty and acquired
Australian citizenship. From 1998 and
onward Cathryn's contacts with Andy were
often to assist Andy in his comings and
A faxed copy of a document from the
Supreme Court of Queensland and bearing
its stamp, grants probate of Andy's will
and recognises Cathryn as executor of the
estate.
Goings as he travelled extensively to try to
teach his interpretations of the bible.
Andy was of the belief that the cities would
fall and that people needed to learn to
become self sufficient in food production
to survive. During these times, however,
Andy was dependent on those around him
even to arrange coach travel and make
phone calls according to Cathryn. “He was
getting his God and his Devil confused at
times.”
And now the important part… Andy's will.
The faxed copy I have received, bearing
the stamp of the court, acknowledges
Cathryn Radclyff as Executor and Trustee.
Item three of the Will reads; I devise and
bequeath the lease of Middle Percy Island
…To my cousin Cathryn Alice Radclyff
absolutely on success of the civil
proceedings against Michael Cotter
including all monies owed by Michael
Cotter to myself for all the damages
At the time of the sale of the island in
2001, Cathryn reports that Andy told her
that he had sold the island for “hundreds
of thousands of dollars to a business man
who reminds me of myself when I was
young.” Later that year Andy made his way
to the island again. Cathryn was
caused by his actions and loss of income
…….. Other items in the will deal with the
monies expected to be derived from “the
civil proceedings against Michael Cotter.”
The will has been witnessed by persons
that I have spoken to and have confirmed
the document as authentic.
surprised, she said, when she got a call
from England not long after. Apparently
Andy was transported off the island and
flown there, where a friend had called
Cathryn to inquire of finances to support
Item #10 reads; I wish my body to be
cremated and buried at my home, the
HOMESTEAD at MIDDLE PERCY ISLAND,
Queensland Australia.
him in the B&B where he was staying. This
is the time that Cathryn says she began her
inquires at Andy's behalf and discovered
Cathryn asks that anyone that feels they
could assist in her cause to contact her:
that Andy had not received vast sums of
money but only $10 for the Percy Island
lease.
Cathryn Radclyffe
P.O. Box 354
Proserpine, Qld. 4800
Email: cradclyffe@airliebeach.net.au

Alan is in... “HOT WATER”
Alan O'Brien explains
how “Hot Water”, his
self built Longtail
boat came to be...
To build the Longtail it took me 5
months. The whole thing from the bow
to the end of the propeller is 14 metres.
Longggggg.
I have been to Thailand a few times
and liked the idea of having one to play
with. After doing some research around
the Phuket area on the cost of buying
and then shipping a boat home, for a
whole bunch of reasons I decided to
build one here on the Gold Coast. In
Thailand if they want a 9 metre boat
they simply chop down a 9 metre plus tree mill it
into planks, tie the planks at each end with wire,
then put spreader boards at various intervals and
leave it in its rough shape for the planks to sweat in
the jungle for several months. They then fit the ribs
in later.
The size of a Longtail is not measured by any
measurement but by the number of ribs it has, my
boat is 22 ribs. Thank God for digital cameras. I
went to Krabi where they build these boats and I
took a whole bunch of photos, and spent a day
taking measurements of the one I liked. The owner
charged me Aus $4.00 for the copyright, use of his
tape measure and the best straight edge I could
find.
The timbers that I used were sourced from various
dump shops on the Gold Coast and Tweed area,
except for the skin, which is double diagonal ply and
then epoxy coated. From stem to stern its 9.5
metres long, has a beam of 2 metres and draws
about 300mm.
The power is a 2L, 2.4 Toyota Hylux diesel with a 4
speed manual gear box. I use second gear and
reverse. Ty and I have clocked it doing 20 knots
with the 19 inch two blade prop. I can run up to a
River entrance and the Gold Coast Seaway, and
because of its speed, high bow, and beam, it slices
through the waves very easy, although it can be a
little unnerving when the bow is riding the wave in
21 inch prop, but for the extra speed it causes too front and the propeller is in the wave behind. I still
much vibration, mainly I think because the prop pick my weather and maintain it is only a calm
itself is not well made. The motor is keel cooled, so weather toy.
it runs on coolant. I intend to go ahead and put it in survey for
Because I used double diagonal construction, I was charter and fun rides on the Broadwater. If any
able to build a flat stern for better buoyancy aft one is interested in more details about the boat
instead of the typical Thai Longtail canoe stern and they can email me at: bolts@austarnet.com.au
then adding trimming boards. Upon launching the
boat I realised much to my delight I had got the
whole thing about 99% right and it floated true to
the water line. The other 1% was the fine tuning of
the shaft.
After a lot of trial and error, I scrapped my original
u beaut stainless steel tube which holds the shaft
and put on a thicker galvanised pipe. I made it
500mm longer, braced it underneath, put in more
fibre bushes to support the shaft and the rocket was
launched.
I now have a great respect for the Thai boat men
and I will never challenge one to an arm wrestle. To
drive this boat is a challenge and a thrill, the faster
you go the easier it is to control.
I think they are the only boats I know that you drive
from the engine room, and I like the fact that there
are no floor boards or covers to lift to access the
motor.
I have been over the Tallabudgera Bar, the Tweed
THE PUBLICATION YOUR CUSTOMERS HAVE ALWAYS WANTED!
Photos:
Top left: Hot Water on the Broadwater
Top centre & right: under construction
Above...the source
ATTENTION ADVERTISERS
Your customers already know us because we go to where they are. TCP is distributed to boat owners and operators through their marina or harbour offices,
chandleries and clubs. (See page 2 for list of distributors) Each Distribution point is monitored to insure every copy is picked up. Call a couple of the marinas and ask!
Our paper has gained respect and credibility from the boating community that is unsurpassed.
WHO READS “THE COASTAL PASSAGE”?
The real sailors, the ones who actually use your products, are our readers. Our papers are read cover to cover, saved, and traded. Our coverage of issues affecting
boaties leads the rest. Recent articles on surveillance and marine sewerage, for example, have positioned TCP as the proponent and representative of boaties. We
reach many readers that have given up on other publications that they feel have lost their relevance. Where would you prefer your ad to go? A newsagent in “Woop
Woop”, or the Marina?
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Join us in the fun and let your customers know you get it too!
Save $ and sell more stuff! Call us @ (07) 4125 7328 0r email at; bob@thecoastalpassage.com
The Coastal Passage #9 2004 Page 3

LETTERS
NOTICE: Letters submitted must have contact details, which may be withheld upon request.
From our #1 Fans Percy Islands More on Percy Islands
“OASIS II” Visits Percy Island…
G-day Bob & Kay,
th
Thanks again for the 8 ! Both of you
are so important doing what you do for
us afloat, and we thank you in the most
sincerest and deepest way for OUR rag.
“Blown Away” by “Weaver” took about
½ an hour to read! 'cause I was crying
with laughter! What a great gift to
change a fair amount of pain, fear and
the loss of blood with mirth!
Sadly, there are Ozzies out there who
have a kink in their armour of opinions,
and we absolutely support the panel
beating job you did in trying to
straighten and lighten up a sad
outlook. Well balanced and an also well
wished reply, which reflected no stoop
or animosity. We refer to “Harry”.
“The Season” is here, and no doubt all
the antics of our brothers & sisters
afloat come along with it. Knowing we
are part of the great service you & Kay
are doing for us all afloat, gives us a
truly warm and comfortable feeling,
and once again, thank you both for your
devotion!
Roz & Lance,
SV “Chicane”
Dear Bob and Kay,
I had the pleasure of dropping in on
Middle Percy Island recently and in
response to your enquire I offer the
following observations of my stay.
Please realise that this is the first time
that I have had the pleasure of visiting
this beautiful Island and experienced
the wonderful warm hospitality. It was
particularly special for us as we
celebrated our daughters fifth birthday
in the "A" frame.
The hospitality and welcome my
family and I received from Loz, Adrian,
Ron and Nick was wonderful. We were
quickly made to feel welcome and were
given a tour of the Island and its
buildings and also the opportunity to
ponder on it's past.
What I did notice was the work that
was underway to restore some of the
Islands structures and systems that
have deteriorated, a difficult task given
that all supplies need to be sailed to the
Island. I have lived in remote Cape York
for the past three years and am no
stranger to the logistical difficulties
and expense of remote living.
I see a wonderful special place in
Middle Percy Island but also ask myself
how do we, as a community maintain
access to such areas, and how do we
maintain and preserve its historical and
Dear Bob,
I read your views on surveillance on
page 2 of #8 with interest. I believe you
referred to it as a “festering sore”.
I was surprised then to read a few lines
up that you are encouraging cruisers
visiting Middle Percy Island to “have a
look around, and maybe take a photo”,
as you are “keen to be informed of any
action or lack of it.”
What is this if not surveillance? How
can you support such a double
standard? Surely, while ever cruisers
are welcome at Middle Percy Island,
“any action or lack of it” should only be
of concern to the Lessor in conjunction
with the conditions of the lease.
The likely outcome of what you are
suggesting is an invasion of the privacy
of the individuals working for the
Lessee. Hopefully yachties would not
repay the enduring hospitality of these
people in this manner.
What would be more productive than
poking around, taking photos an
reporting “any activity or lack of it”,
would be to spend a day pitching in and
helping to maintain facilities provided
for the comfort and enjoyment of
cruisers.
Stephanie Hunt,
“Faraway”
As for the articles on Andy Martin and
Middle Percy Island. We were keen to
see for ourselves so dropped anchor on
our way north in April. To our
amazement the stories were true about
being run down, badly attended and
generally leaving us feeling rather sad
about the whole place. On our walk to
the homestead we did come across one
couple who live on the island who said
just make yourself at home and left n
their quad bike to catch up with a friend
to take them fishing. What we were to
discover at the top of the hill was to
anyone with half an ounce of pride in
their home simply disgusting!
Years of collections of broken down
machinery, fridges, stoves, hundreds of
dead batteries and piles and piles of just
useless junk in every direction from the
homestead. We noted a very feeble
attempt by the inhabitants to bag a few
nuts and bottle a little honey and we
also noticed the Centrelink letters.
Hmmmm....
Anyway, we felt the legacy of Andy
Martin has definitely been defiled and
as for anything to do with museum
homesteads and the like, I think it's all
just dreaming.
Hullo Bob & Kay,
Trust all is well in your neck of the
woods. We are fine, as per usual, still
anchored up in the river at
Mooloolaand and enjoying life in
general. There are still quite a few
vessels passing through on their way
north, and the odd ones heading south.
Bob, it is with great trepidation and fear
of severe reprisal through your press,
that I wish to mention, there was a
slightly small, trival, little and
insignificant problem with your 8th
edition of TCP. Would you mind if I was
to correct (heaven forbid, Lord please
don’t strike me with a bolt of
lightning)a small spelling mistake
(have mercy, I am but a humble Aussie).
Page 5, headed “Why do I Cruise?”, At
the end of the article you mention
“Curuba”, as follows “Carruba”. Just
thought you might like to know. No
need for retraction or written apology,
as I understand the great pressure you
editors are under. Besides, after the
last poor bugger who picked up on one
of your spelling mistakes...????
Cheers,
Peter,
“CURUBA”
Greetings you disgusting scum,
So...you think you can get away with
that kind of slander merly by groveling
and apologising in advance, eh??? Well
forget that...the bombers are on their
way! Soon the whole Mooloolabah will
pay for your blaspheme. Sadam
committed far less sin, and look what
happened to his sorry ass...I wouldn’t
bother looking for a hole in the ground
either, “we” are wise to that one.
“Retraction! Apology!” You are
mad...Change the spelling on your
floating footpath immediately, or face
dire consequences!
Love & Kisses,
Bob
recreational value.
If it was a State Government asset it
would be either closed, or a permit
would be required to be purchased, or
fees would need to be paid. If it was a
commercial concern then it would
charge a landing or mooring fee.
To maintain an environment for the
public being us, the yachting and
fishing community is in this day and
age very difficult, with permits and
public liability, litigation would be a
real concern. And no, I have not got
the answers but what I do know is that I
would like my daughter to be able to
experience the freedom and history
that a place like Middle Percy provides
and the hospitality that is shown by its
current guardians.
What I have observed though is that
yachtie's are in large a doing and
practical bunch and these skills are
what are needed in remote areas.
Logistics are a huge issue as is
transport of goods and services. My
personal suggestion would be to those
who intend to visit Middle Percy would
be to contribute what you can to the
maintenance of this wonderful place.
Contribute consumables such as fuels
for the diesels, or unleaded for the
vehicles, hardware, labour or perhaps
ring the crew on the island: (07)
49356063 to see if they need
something to continue the great work
that has been done on the island.
I for one know that great things can
happen if people do instead of
complain, contribute instead of
criticise, and if it doesn't then you know
that at least you individually have
contributed to the maintenance of
history.
Thanks to Loz, Adrian, Ron and Nick.
You gave me and my family memories
that we will always treasure and good
luck in the future.
Gavin Farry
SV “New Address”
Greetings Gavin and family of:
SV “New Address”
Thank you for your report. It is very
good to hear that your experience was so
positive. Your report and all others will be
passed on... I only hope others have a
similar tale to tell.
Regards, Bob Norson
Surveillance versus reporting
Dear Stephanie,
How can you compare the act of
investigation and interrogation by
force or stealth and the mere act of
reporting when the invitation has been
made to visit and observe. If the owner
of the island has forbid anyone telling
of their experience on the island it
would be news to me and a
contradiction to what I was actually
told. Further, such a request would be
telling by itself. Mick Cotter, the
current owner, has stated publicly, that
the future of the island is that of a
tribute to Andy Martin. The homestead
is to become a museum, unoccupied
and open to the public.
This column is dedicated to free speech
and the free exchange of information,
even if it displeases you…or me. Let's
make clear the difference between
surveillance and reporting as the editor
of this rag sees it. Say there is a
restaurant, the sign on the door says
open. A customer comes in and has a
meal, when he leaves a stranger asks
outside how he found the meal. The
customer says it was good or it was
shit, whichever. That is what I call
reporting. Say you snuck in after hours
or by force of authority, mounted a
small camera in a corner of the kitchen
to get the recipe….I'll call that
surveillance. I stand proud of the
fairness in our reporting on this and
any other issue. I am happy to have all
sides given print and let the chips of
public opinion fall where they may.
Speaking of fairness….The volume of
input we have had on the Percy's is
indication of the interest and power of
the place. Though we prefer to print
the positive, it can't be denied that the
greatest portion of mail we have gotten
has been negative, sometimes in the
extreme. I attribute some of that to the
fact that people's expectations may be
too high. Andy was not known to be a
perfect housekeeper himself when it
came to the condition of some
buildings. So.. I give you one very
positive account, one blasting me and
one critical of the islands management.
My little way of making sure I piss
everyone off!
Reagrds,
Steve & Leanne George,
SV, Oasis I I
Dear Kay & Bob,
We had hardly got back into Aussie
when people started telling us that they
had seen our photo in The Coastal
Passage. You guys have hit the right
spot with TCP, it is very popular. The
best part is that effectively every edition
is potentially totally different from the
earlier editions, whereas most other
publications are very predictable.
Being creatures who love change, we
naturally go for TCP. Thank you very
much for publishing Maureen’s “Saga at
Sea”. We have it on the toilet wall and I
smile every time I am sitting on the little
white seat!
We left Aussie last September and had
a fairly hard trip to the Louisiades in
PNG. Once there it was lovely. The
people are great and in a short space of
time we made lots of friends. It was
great just hanging out in the villiages
and enjoying the villagers. From there
we headed to Kimbe Bay in New britain.
Not bad, with lots of diving and
hugenumbers of volcanoes, a number
of which are active. To come up from an
hour long dive to the roar of an erupting
volcano is a bit scary to us, but nothing
to the locals.
From there to Kavieng on New ireland,
then the Solomon Islands, back to
Louisiades, then a good sail to
Townsville where we are relaxing and
repairing the boat and ourselves. The
nine months of sailing we found to be
fairly tiring, but very enjoyable.
Barry & Maureen,
SV “Spirt of Kalahari”
Page 4 The Coastal Passage #9 2004

LETTERS continued...
NOTICE: Letters submitted must have contact details, which may be withheld upon request.
Hello Bob and Kay!
We're anchored off the Point Cruz
Yacht Club in Honiara on the Island
of Guadalcanal. Honiara is the
largest city in the Solomons with a
population of 3,500 and it is its
capital. This is definitely a third
world country, much like visiting a
frontier town. The people are all
Chris & Fred,
MV “Arcturus”
FUNDAMENTAL FREEDOMS:
FREEDOM FROM HUNGER
FREEDOM FROM FEAR
FREEDOM FROM BOREDOM
memory tells me the 4-legged race Dear Bob & Kay,
was a washout once the friend tied
between us calmly announced she Following our return to the Queensland Coast, and currently
was pregnant! The swimming race cruising north, then south, then north once again (we used to
was cancelled due to a bronze whaler be indecisive, but now we're not so sure), we happened
showing that a few tenders, with 5hp
across your paper, and for two issues now, we have enjoyed
motors, were not enough persuasion
the news and information. I decided to send to you a couple
to leave Watsons Bay.
of little stories, one for you, and one written on route to
Carry on a great tradition Vanuatu from Fiji. Do with them what you will!
please. As we are normally well north
nice, very friendly and speak of Lizard by this time of the year, we Cheers
English.
There are several three and four
modern appearing office buildings
© ©Peter Peter Utber
have only played in a couple, but Sandy and Julian Way
know that an older, and fitter, yachtie S.V. "CAT'CHUS"
has organised many Olympic days.
in the downtown area. Today, we
were walking on a back street and
noticed that each building has its
Onward- we have just
revamped our home, ready for sale, H.O.M.E.
own diesel generator loudly running
to make electricity for its tenants.
So while
the buildings seem modern, there is
and all the work was completed in
Mackay. Can recommend all those
involved, but particularly John Bates
boatyard up Vines Creek. But listen
It's been three years,
Since we 'up the pick',
To sail the oceans,
no central power system in this
community.
John, could you please organise less
than 30kn SE next time we leave
The land to flick!
We plan to stay here for about a
week, there is so much of WWII to
see here. Then we'll head out to
some of the other islands to
continue our explorations. We have
been issued a three-month visa and
we may stay the limit; although,
there are many other places on this
earth we hope to see.
WWII represents the recent history
of this place but in truth, its
significant reaches back to the
beginnings of history in the South
Pacific. It was these peoples that set
sail from here and other places in
this region that discovered and
populated the entire area we call
Polynesia. They boarded their
canoes and travelled north, south
and east. Over hundreds of years
they reached Hawaii, Easter Island,
New Zealand and every island in
between.
When we leave Honiara we expect
To meet many people who live in
huts in small jungle communities.
We'll stay in touch and send photos
when we can.
Take care,
Hi Guys,
Thanks for the magazine / rag.
A couple of things require I
send this email. Normally I am very
quiet (I hear half the flotilla laughing
now!) OK, so I have been known to
speak up occasionally.
We have been cruising around for a
mere six years, just beginners it
would seem. Out of money, so back
to work we go. Most of our time has
been spent along the Qld east coast,
and north of Cooktown. Warm and
wonderful. (Today is only 16 Celsius
in Mackay)
Lizard Olympics I cannot
tell you exactly how many have been
held, but I can assure you last years
“inaugural” was far from the first.
Years ago, we were delayed on our
northern trek and before our anchor
had set, a tender was hailing us, and
inviting us to the beach for the
games. In Sept of 2000 we had to
motor in from the Ribbons for the
Olympics. (The weather was
incredibly good that year, which
meant I tried to wear out our dive
compressor on the Ribbons), My
the Pioneer River??!!
Lastly, one of the best
parts of reading TCP has been to
catch up on those you “pass in the
dark”. We talked to Lynn on
“Chappie” somewhere around the
Percy Islands, I think. Both vessels
tired from an overnighter. Our first
encounter with Kevin Lane on a
regular HF sked, along the WA
coast, where he gave
encouragement to the greenhorns
(us) of the fleet, around Dampier, or
somewhere thereabouts! So many
miles ago.
How many more of you are
hiding out there, quietly reading the
Yachties Voice? Keep those
adventures coming in,
Safe sailing!
Janelle,
SV, Eureka III
From East Coast Oz,
To Paradise Pacific,
New Zealand was nice,
But Home's Terrific!
We've met some Mates,
Both Old and New,
And shared a joke,
With some good home brew!
Now back on the Coast,
Of Oz once again,
I find a good 'rag',
A beaut Entertain!
The Coastal Passage,
It's fondly referred,
It's contents both,
A laugh, and absurd!
The pics, the prose,
The 'anything goes',
Is my kinda read,
It's like - a good feed!
It's good to be back,
Hope we meet,
down the track,
The Rag's number one,
So keep up the fun!
©Sandy Way,
SV “Catchus
The Coastal Passage #9 2004 Page 5

Romance of the Sea
Cruisers Lament
Gone are the days of position reports
No longer call in, as we were taught.
Now a computer voice is all we receive
Bring back the people to talk to us please.
Gone are the days when cruisers were free
To roam and play all over the sea.
National Parks now want a fee
Even to anchor in estuaries.
Gone are the days of catching a fish
Green zones a plenty but what is this!!
Only the good guys follow the rules
He Marine Park patrols played like fools.
Gone are the days of cruising the top.
Our indigenous mates have got the lot
The islands, the seas, and all of the land
And from this, we white fellas banned.
Gone are the days when government decree
Are related to fairness and equality.
Where are the days of common sense?
The easy way is to sit on the fence.
Still we go out there and challenge the lot.
Putting ourselves in the melting pot.
The urge is there, the need to be free.
One look at society makes you FLEE!
© Janelle Cowan
Book Exerpt
Bob’s Note:
I have ben a big fan of Author, Peter Watt fo some years. I have
followed the series of books, starting with “Cry of the Curlew”, and
look forward to his newest release, “Eden”, due out in a couple
months. The style is blood & guts, sex, and violence...great stuff!
The setting is frontier Australia and made fascinating by Peters
faultless attention to actual history. Put yourself right in it.
Experience it all as it was, right down to the smell.
Great historical fiction / adventure. Look for “Cry of the Curlew”,
“Shadow of the Osprey”, “Flight of the Eagle”, Papua, “To Chase the
Storm”, and coming soon, “Eden”!
By Peter Watt
Once off the wharf Michael was amazed at how much Townsville had grown since he
had last seen it in 1875. It was still a town of tin and timber but there were also fine
public buildings of stone and brick. The great red rock hill reared up from the town itself
to dominate the view inland and the streets were lined with gas lights. They were a short
walk from the newly built Excelsior Hotel into which Horace had booked him when
Michael noticed that, although the town had grown, the unpleasant smell of cesspits
remained.
He carried only one bag. It was battered and had seen much service in its travels but he
had never considered replacing the old carpet bag; it symbolised his life. For all that
was necessary to his existence he carried in the bag; his razor, a brace of Colt revolvers,
two changes of clothes and a faded photograph of an unsmiling little boy staring with
serious eyes at the camera. The photograph had been given to him by his sister Kate
Tracy. It had been sent to her from Sydney by their Aunt Bridget prior to the boy sailing
for England. The photograph was Michael's most treasured possession. It was of his son
now known as Captain Patrick Duffy, of Her Majesty's military expedition to the Sudan.
A son who was unaware that his father was even alive.
In a short time they arrived at the hotel. Michael signed in under the name O'Flynn. In
the Colony of New South Wales he was still wanted for a murder that he had not
committed. In his long years as a mercenary soldier he had killed many men who
probably had not deserved death. But the only killing he had done purely in self defence
was called murder by the authorities of that southern Australian town.
Michael's room had access to the front upper veranda where the view took in the
muddy waters of the creek he had crossed to reach the wharf from his steamer. He could
see the tall single spars of small wooden boats moored along the shore. A pleasant
breeze played along the veranda and there was a sense of peace about the place. North
Queensland was fast becoming home to him for many reasons. Here lived his sister Kate
and her husband, his Yankee friend, Luke Tracy. Here resided the man who controlled
his life and managed his pay. And here, too, he was not wanted for murder.
FLIGHT OF THE EAGLE
Peter Watt,
First published in 2001
Page 6 The Coastal Passage #9 2004
Flight of the Eagle
A FIRST MATES TALE
A dinkum country girl am I,
The Skipper, he's a city guy,
From the bush, but shy I'm not,
His nickname is, 'Sir Chatalot'.
We've covered some miles, aboard together,
Twenty five thousand - seems like forever.
Some days are dull, some they do sparkle,
Others are just, one great big debacle.
Survival at sea, it's part of the plan,
We dive and we fish, even open a can.
He's at home on the ocean, brewing the beer,
While I'm quite content on land - in Golf Gear.
We have an agreement, between he and me,
And now I hit golf balls, from deck to the sea.
He sits in the dinghy, dodging the "fours",
We both drink the beer, and add up the scores.
Fine breeze and fine weather, for me they're the best,
Towing drogues, crashing rogues, put us both to the test.
The Boat, The Journey, The Skipper, All Great,
Along with the tolerance, of the First Mate.
© Sandy Way
S.V. “CAT'CHUS”

THE GAMES….!?
I don't think there can be a soul left on the coast
that hasn't heard about the “games” held last year
and the coming….event? Paul Hoggers brilliant
feature in the TCP # 7 covering the madness has
captured attention world wide. We can't have a
sundowner anywhere where the subject doesn't
come up. “Where you headed this year?” “Oh, I
reckon Lizard. We almost made it there last year
and really kicked ourselves when we found out
what we missed!” I could probably attribute that
quote to fleet of 50 boats so far, and I don't talk to
all of them (some will argue that).
Cruisers “plans” are notoriously loose, as Sandy
Way says “we used to be indecisive, but now we're
not so sure.” So the timing of this year's madness Those who achieve medal status (through fair play
and attendance will be the fluid and unpredictable and maximum effort of course ) will receive the
thing that it should be to suit the nature of…. who normal prestigious awards of VB cans on a string or
we are. On that note… here is the information that such.
can be given to those wishing to fine tune their But no matter what, we look forward to your
“schedule.” Sometime around the last of September stories!!! Even if it is just a paragraph or two, that's
to mid October, or anywhere in between, a bunch OK. I would love to see a collection of individual
of people will get together and determine that the glimpses of your experiences. Torture all your
critical mass required to ignite the “torch” has been friends who didn't make it with what they missed!!
reached and it will begin to happen. We plan to
distribute a medal to all participants, who will be
winners everyone!.. If we can find a way to get out
of this publishing shit for just long
“OFFICIAL” RESEARCH
Take pride for years to come in
owning one of these silver
medals handmade by Bob and
Kay Norson. Proof that YOU
were there!
Be sure to attend the
2004 Lizard Island Olympics
Absolutely unofficial sponsors:
The Coastal Passage
Blue Water Jewellery Factory
FLAT OUT LIKE A LIZARD!
By Bob Norson Dr. Hesse: Think nothing of it Bob. Norson: How exciting!! You have an you what kind of disgusting lies we
We are after all professionals, brothers answer then.. have to tell them to talk them into
The surveillance issue that we as it we re , in th e at te mp t at Dr. Hesse: We believe so. As I said, letting us get a micrometer in there..
pu bl is he d se ve ra l mo nt hs ag o, understanding our lesser relations in research does continue, but our early Horrible! Which brings me to the real
brought up some interesting questions the family tree. findings here confirm the conclusions purpose of this interview. You didn't
of the legality and morality of the Norson: Er... Right.. Let's get right to brou ght abou t by our Amer ican actually believe I would waive my
boardings by various "officials". An it then. The issue is the failure we have studies. We have found a common trait normal fee of $1000 per hour for
issue we didn't cover however, was that in coming to grips with the personality that is almost universally found in the nothing did you?!
of moti vati on of the indi vidu als type that myself and many boaties have officials that habitually offend. Norson: But you said you were a fan
involved. The enthusiasm displayed by had to confront on the water ways of Norson: Well... What is it??!! of the TCP!!
the minions of the government seemed the Great Barrier Reef. Dr. Hesse: They have no penis....... Dr. Hesse: That silly little rag!!?? Get
excessive even by normal bureaucratic Dr. Hesse: This subject is an Norson: WHAT!!?? You can't be real. I figure that the few readers you
standards. I was especially impressed opportunity for all of us as there is an serious! have can't be too bright so maybe I can
by the Queensland officer that aspect of this situation where you and Dr. Hesse: Deadly serious, and sad, talk them into assisting with the most
demanded the "cruising permit" of the your vast number of readers can but true... there isn't a penis among loathsome part of my research, that is
NSW boat. provide valuable assistance to my them. As the research of my noble the actual measuring part......So You
continuing research on this vary predecessor, Dr. Freud suggested, readers out there... The next time you
Normally I would have to just shake subject... but more on that later. As I Penis envy is a powerful motivating are confronted by one of those
my head in wonder and carry on.... but understand the problem, you wish to force causing a number of disorders, officials.... I want you to ask to see
as Tom Petty once said "even losers get know why officialdom seems to be the notably the abuse of authority in the their penis..... When they proudly
lucky sometimes". While attending a dom ain of a par tic ula r ty pe o f most petty and demeaning sense. Now display themselves to you, try to
function on the Gold Coast I was very overzealous and rude personality type that some information of our research ascertain whether it is a congenital
fortunately seated next to Dr.Richard seemingly bent on using whatever has been made public, we did get a defect or amputation if you can. Don't
H e s s e o f t h e " I n s t i t u t e o f excuse du jour to annoy and harass letter of complaint from Cairns, forget to take the measurement. As a
P s y c h o t h e r a p y " o f H e i d e l b e r g innocent boaties. Is that about it? denying our conclusion, accompanied reward we will be sending out tweezers
Germany. As the good doctor is a huge Norson: Couldn't have said it better by a photo. We had to write back to that and rubber gloves to the first 100
fan of TCP he uncharacteristically myself! official notifying him that while he may people that send us data.
waived his normal fee for professional Dr. Hesse: As a matter of fact the take great pride in his member, we Norson: There is a lesson in here
services and granted me the following problem is a specialty of mine and has require a measurement of at least somewhere............
insightful interview.... GRATIS.. which, been the object of continuing research. 25mm to qualify.
as you probably know, is all we can I have just come back from the USA, Norson: Which brings to mind the AND… To all those quality, dedicated
normally afford, being boat owners California in particular, where the question...How the hell do you get officials, you know we don't mean
after all. But I digress..... Follows the police are world famous for these these people to ...er... cooperate?? YOU. It must be awful working with
faithful record of that interview of 12- p h e n o m e n a . T h e n e w s f r o m Dr. Hesse: Nothing to it. We just tell those “penis challenged” ones, and as
01-04 from the Atlantis building, Queensland, however, has been very them that we heard they had an far as you bad guys…prove it aint so!
overlooking the action from the 18th exciting as it seems it could turn into an "exceptional" specimen and they jerk
floor........ ev en mo re fe rt il e gr ou nd fo r their pants down so fast it leaves a
investigation. The issue has already sonic boom. They are nothing if not
Norson: First of all, thank you Dr. been a focus of my advance staff and reliable.
Hesse for taking the time from your we do have enough to go on to make Norson: They don't pay you enough!
schedule for this interview. public our preliminary findings. Dr. Hesse: Tell me about it. I can't tell
The Coastal Passage #9 2004 Page 7
2004

SUNDOWNERS
here’s my story, mate...
“The Boat”
Page 8 The Coastal Passage #9 2004
There by all accounts of the events started to take thing off the engine and
was drifting and slack ropes and not out of the bilge.
enough headway at the right time.
The truly amazing thing was the I'm sure the boat heaved a sigh of
towing hawser was a small nylon rope relief when we started to take an
not meant for the job, but it interest in it after 4 hard years of
performed admirably. The end result neglect. Being in the lock up dry
was the boat was deposited in the storage we were not allowed to do any
hard stand area of the working yard serious work and so we decided to give
and left to recuperate. our finances time to recoup and we left
the old girl alone for near on two years
Our next job besides having full
time jobs, was to get the engine out In that time we saved up enough
and the masts off. money to buy a new engine. About the
The engine was (and I use passed price of a deposit on a house. We are
tense because we euthanased it now the proud owners of a Nanni
almost immediately) a CMC diesel 2 diesel 5 cylinder 60hp and bright blue
cylinders and 20 hp. These once to boot. It sits in our shed waiting for
working machines were built in the day. Every now and then we go and
the growth she topped 14.5 tonne. China. You know the $2.00 shops look at it to remind ourselves of the
The thing was to get it towed to the proliferating all over Australia? Well, dream.
By: Kerry Ashwin,
SV (soon to be) Dikera
On the occasion of buying a boat, my
husband and I went in with little regard
other than we wanted one. We did all
the right things, and listened to the
advice of the professionals and the
broker. My husband knows quite a lot
about boats and stuff. So we were not
totally blind, but we did purchase with
our hearts and then our heads took
over.
Now we have the task of refitting the
boat and paying for the things we can't
do without. The boat in question is a
45ft steel ketch. The design is a one
off. Through the records of the boat
we found out that the bloke that had it
slip-way because the stopcocks were
seized and the engine wouldn't start
I'm sure this engine came from one of
without them open. Having no
those establishments. When we After paying for the lock up for two
experience in towing and all things
mentioned to people in the know abut years we decided that we could do
with nautical names I was not much
engines and what we had they just better if we put the boat in the back
help. The broker put all the necessary
laughed! Not the polite snigger on the yard. Not having a big back yard, the
ropes in place and we followed his
end of the phone but an outright logical, yet financially suicidal step
bellowing to the letter. That way we
laugh. No-one would conjecture as to was to find a house that would have a
proceeded to the slip-way without too
getting it working. So we decided to BIG back yard. We did manage to get a
much #**@+! swearing going on.
try to off load it by advertising. No house with all the requirements and
takers. Then we tried to give it away. moved the family to suit the boat.
At the haul out we had a few
No takers. When we had to get the
onlookers at our wildlife collection.
engine out of the bilge it was a messy Now we had the get the boat to join
With the broker, myself and Dion (my
job. The previous owners had been the family, but that is another story for
husband) we scraped off a medium
I'm sure the chandleries' best another time.
skip full of stuff. Being October in the
customer. They had bits on bits and
tropics, and the amount of drop off on
other bits attached to other bits. It Editors note:
our persons we all were extremely
looked like spaghetti with wire and Do not despair “BLOWN AWAY”
pongy! But nothing beats the surveyor
pipes. Two water pumps, one piggy- fans!Martin returns next issue.
saying, “This is a fine specimen of a
backed on the other. Three batteries If you can’t wait, order a copy of
steel boat and she will see you right
and the cables for about 6 more. Your own for $5.00 from:
around the world”. Just the words we
Enough grease around the engine to WEAVER
wanted to hear. Now we did the
be declared an environmental hazard.
P.O. Box 76
Cairns, Qld., 4870
negotiation and were the proud
We donned our oldest clothes and
built was a 6 footer. So he owners. We considered ourselves to
accommodated his head. It's very have bargain. Never mind the old
spacious inside and has 6 berths. A adage “What does boat stand for?”
tumblehome deck gives the
impression that we have the capacity
Bring On Another Thousand.
to roll through any weather. The next job in hand was to get the
Before the initial purchase we had the bargain towed around to the boat
daunting task of getting the boat out yard. This entailed negotiation 2
of the water and letting the surveyor breakwater swells and an outgoing
look her over. Now that might seem a tide. The surveyor kindly offered his
reasonable thing to achieve in normal services to tow. The broker offered to
conditions. But this boat had been in rig up the rope. Our land lubber friend
the water not moving for near on 4 offered his muscle power and Dion
years. That meant we had a mini reef orchestrated the whole shebang. I
growing on the bottom. So much so unfortunately had to go to work and
that the bloke driving the crane was earn the money to keep the boat in the
sceptical that the straps would hold secure lock up for the conceivable
and not slip on all the weed. Then we future.
would have to leave the boat in the Enterprises like this tend to be
marina and declare it a wild life fraught with mishap. This day was no
sanctuary.
It is 14 tonne fully geared out plus all
different. Everyone had his own idea
on how to achieve the same end.
Dikera begins the new look...

“Rolling On” rolls on to Darwin
Keith & Lianne stocking for the voyage
The Delivery voyage of
interesting place full of history of Captain Cook, we anchored for the last time and set course for Darwin
“Rolling On”
motoring,
th
for Cooktown, arriving on the second day. Its' an On the morning of Tuesday 29 of June we up
visited two museums and could easily have spent arriving shortly after 10pm, dropping anchor in Fannie
more time there and have vowed to return and do just Bay, off the Darwin Sailing Club. Having travelled a
that (but not in the near future). distance of 1924.7 nautical miles in 233.1 hours of
Next morning saw us on our way again and after 6
and being held up for total of 9 days due to
very bad weather. We had complete confidence in the
Story & Photos by Keith Roll, SV “Rolling On” days of motoring we anchored off Siesa on the western boat in all weather conditions and reached speeds of
side of Cape York (top of Australia) once again held up 20 knots surfing down waves where watching the log
Finally after years of planning the day eventually because of strong wind warnings, after 2 days at Siesa became our favourite pastime.
arrived to take delivery of our new Fusion 40 and topping up with fuel and water the winds had
Catamaran (motor away version). Most new boat abated enough and we departed heading out into the On the way we saw many sea creatures' sea snakes,
launchings entail launching the boat, and motoring it Gulf of Carpentaria to Gove, this being our first turtles, dolphins, crocodiles, dugongs and flying fish
a few miles to its' new home for fitting out. overnight steam Lianne was a bit apprehensive to say with a couple landing on the deck (one gave Lianne a
the least!!! 45 hours later saw us anchored in Gove hell of a fright in the middle of the night during the
We did the same, only our fitting out berth was nearly harbour off the yacht club; we had seen the reassuring Gulf crossing).
2000 nautical miles away in Darwin, Northern glow of the bauxite plant for nearly half the night.
Territory. This is a long way when the boat has no
creature comforts. Imagine a tent with nothing inside, Once again strong wind warnings held us up so we
Some Engine Facts:
only this one bucks around when the seas decide.
A month before launch date my wife Lianne and I
packed up our camping gear and boat safety
equipment and had it transported to Airlie Beach,
Queensland.
A few days before launching we flew into Mackay,
Queensland and were met by my parents who had
took the opportunity to move into a Hotel for a couple
of days (which was like heaven, hot showers and a
warm cosy still bed) we also hired a vehicle to get
around as the yacht club is a long way from town.
Two days later saw us on our way again, on the final
leg of our epic journey leaving Gove on the back end of
the strong wind warning, knowing that after we
passed though “the hole in the wall” things would
I topped up with fuel in Seisa (Bamaga) (Yorkeys Knob -
Seisa 380 ltrs) which got me all the way to Darwin with
approx 1/3 tank to spare.
2600 rpm gives better than 8 Kts
2400 rpm about 7.5 Kts
2000 rpm better than 6 kts
One day we travelled 80 nm in 7.5 hrs @ 2600 rpm!!
(An average of 10.666 knots per hour)
driven up from Caloundra, Queensland to witness the improve. As we approached the entrance of Culgari
launch. Passage (“hole in the wall”) the seas were extremely
th
The launching took place at 05.30 Thursday 27 May
to catch the tide, so with the popping of champagne
confused with 3-4 metre swells and just to make
things interesting a rain squall closed in. It was such a
welcome relief when we entered the passage.
NOTE FROM JIM GARD, CEO, FUSION
CATAMARANS:
corks at a very early hour “Rolling On” was craned into
the water, watched by a lot of tense Fusion employees,
prospective Fusion buyers, friends and curious
onlookers. It was not long before all of the above were
on board for its' maiden sea trial which proved a
resounding success and a prospective buyer placed an
order following the sea trial. Four days later after
stowing supplies and waiting for the winds to abate we
were motoring our way to Darwin.
Five days later saw us anchored in Port Essington off
the beach where the British settled in 1838 until 1849
we were going ashore in our rubber dinghy to see the
ruins when I pointed out a crocodile sunning himself
on the beach, just at that moment he decided to move
(at a very fast pace) into the water, Lianne wanted “out
of this dinghy and hurry up” our little 2 metre rubber
dinghy had never gone so fast, the croc was twice as
I must admit we were a little apprehensive having a
brand new Fusion 40 design, without internal
structures, leave in strong wind warnings, on a
journey of almost 2000 sea miles, but as Keith
reported in his regular check -ins “she handled like a
dream”. The 8.25knt average for the entire journey
was provided by 2 of the new Yanmar 29hp diesel
saildrives and a Navman Autopilot.
st
We cast off after lunch on Monday 31 May 2004, with
Lianne having all these yachting magazine visions of
idyllic locations and calm seas.
long as it. So it was a welcome relief when we were
back onboard “Rolling On”.
So much for our nature walk!!! We will have to return
another time with a “real dinghy” to inspect the ruins
(Lianne hopes they are worth it!!).
Keith also reported that she was the “hottest property”
on the East Coast as she drew a crowd wherever she
was and even had the skipper of a freighter call him up
to ask “what design is it”.
The first night we anchored off Gloucester Eco Resort
20 odd nautical miles from Airlie Beach, the food there Once again the winds were up so we took shelter and We wish Lianne and Keith many years of fair sailing in
“Rolling On” and look forward to the update
was fantastic and staff very friendly. On day 2 the
vision of calm seas was given way to 2 - 3 metre swell
on the stern, the boat handled them well with the log
peaking at 19 knots surfing down a wave, we
continued day hopping up the Queensland coast,
inside of Hinchinbrook Island, crossed the bar at Hull
Heads where we visited friends and took refuge from
the strong wind warning, which lasted 3 days.
th
Monday the 8 of June saw us on our way again with
the tail of the wind warning starting to subside,
working our way up to Yorkeys Knob and berthing at
Half Moon Bay Marina for the night, taking on fuel and
water. The next morning we were on our way heading
slowly made our way around to Popham Bay near Cape
Don waiting for the winds to die off once again.
“Rolling On” anchored at Fitzroy Island,
& on Launch day.
photographs as their fitout takes place.
Entering the Loch at Darwins
Marina is tricky and
TIGHT business!
The Coastal Passage #9 2004 Page 9

The friendly lights of yachts at anchor made a Meanwhile, the adults were sitting around the table
welcome sight as we finally rounded the point at the back of the A-frame enjoying the view and
inside Pine Islet and headed in. Our bright taking the opportunity to catch up on news. Another
spotlight invaded Keemar's privacy and bought perfect day was coming to a close and the sun was
them out on deck where the kids shouted sinking slowly over the distant horizon. The water
excitedly to each other. Originally planning to was oily calm but with that nasty, deceptive little roll
leave later that night, Bruce and Robyn willingly I knew would keep me awake half the night! A call
amended the plan as the kids voted was made for the kids to do a dinghy-run out to the
unanimously for a school-free day. What the boat for supplies of home brew. This chore for
heck - why not? They hadn't seen each other some reason required four kids, two dinghies and a
since March and had lots to catch up on. We did lot of shouting!
too, of course. It was a long way from
Southport. Shortly afterwards the two Kims arrived from a
lengthy hike to the homestead. Daughter Rachel
Bum's Bay on the Gold Coast had proven to be quickly joined the other kids in the hammock. Now
an excellent summertime anchorage with lots we had kids in grades six, seven, eight, nine, ten
of other cruising families there. Quite multi- and eleven. 'He boss Kim' and wife 'She boss Kym'
cultural really with the yacht Charlotte from the and their girls aboard Captain Silver are relative
USA, a Canadian family aboard Silent Sound, two new chums, having left the Gold Coast just a few
Through Kids Eyes kiwi yachts Manuhiri and Aria, in addition to months ago. They love everything about the
A day at Middle Percy Island Keemar III, Quoll II plus our own crew. Anything up cruising lifestyle and enjoy every opportunity to talk
to eleven or twelve kids could be found ashore after with other yachties and share their experiences.
school most days swimming, paddling surf skis,
Story & Photo by: Colleen Burns
SV “La Passarola
Having finally eaten their fill of coconuts, the kids
had carried armloads of the fibrous husks up to the
fireplace behind the 'A-frame'. Determined to chase
out every flying, crawling, biting and stinging insect
on Middle Percy with the thick billowing smoke,
they seemed equally certain of chasing the adults
away! The four of them Jackson and Ryan aboard
Keemar III, plus own two Aimee and Jordan on La
Passarola - had been almost inseparable through
The summer months and they were enjoying
catching up with each other again.
It was only by chance we were even out at the
Percy Islands. After leaving Island Head Creek that
morning we'd made a very slow passage and an
overnight anchorage at Hexham Island seemed our
only option. Hearing Keemar III on the radio made
the decision for us and softened the blow for the
kids that our long day was to become even longer.
Page 10 The Coastal Passage #9 2004
making cubbies or sometimes toasting damper and As with most cruising parents, the subject of
marshmallows over an open fire. Very natural, very school features heavily. Secondary school does
normal kid behaviour. So much for the popular definitely pose more problems, although none of
misconception that home-schooled kids “miss out them insurmountable. Keeping up the motivation
on the interaction and socialisation with others their for both the students and the parents is the biggest
own age”! How many times have cruising parents battle, along with lack of internet access for their
heard this well-intentioned but incorrect comment? assignments, and a slow turnaround for marked
In over three years of cruising I can honestly say our work. Generally speaking, the first mate gets to be
kids aren't 'missing out' on anything. Their general the Home Tutor while the Captain involves himself
knowledge and understanding has developed far in repairs, maintenance, general improvements and
beyond their age level resulting in greater self- other 'secret men's business' which on occasions
confidence and maturity. When they're with adults can take him to other people's boats for several
they converse readily and when they're with other
kids ………. they act like kids! This afternoon was
hours!
no exception and with the fire blazing self- The final beer is poured out of a plastic soft
sufficiently they were now swinging precariously in drink bottle. The kids emerge from the hammock
the overgrown hammock. It was good to see them very dirty, smelling of smoke and asking
slot back into the easy camaraderie they've shared hopefully about tea. The last colours of the
on and off over the past year. sunset fade softly from the sky as the first few
Originally meeting while tied alongside each other in stars come out. Down on the beach three
Gladstone Marina, we've enjoyed sharing anchorages dinghies lie patiently as the tide hisses gently
at Pancake Creek, Mooloolaba, Bum's Bay and now at around them, waiting to take their owners home
Percy.
after another hectic day on Middle Percy.
Ad space

By R. Norson
Just another day at the office...
Abbot Point is the departure point for the coal
extracted from the mines in the Bowen basin. Though
not quite as busy as Hay point near Mackay, it is
certainly a large shipping point. The coal comes down
from Collinsville on trains to be off loaded at the jetty
and transferred to bulk carrier ships bound for Asia.
The ships are required to have a local pilot to
approach and tie up to the jetty for loading. The ships
must also be assisted by tug boats to manoeuvre into
position. This means that for every movement at
Abbot Point a corresponding flury of activity takes
place in Bowen Boat Harbour and Port Denison as that
is where the craft are berthed. If you have sailed
around Bowen for a while, these craft moving back and
forth are a familiar sight off Queens Bay and
Edgecombe Bay. The Tugs require more water and “Hyundai Power”, fully loaded and ready to move off.
room than is in the Boat Harbour but the Pilot Boat The mass of huge lines were thrown with a crash and
normally berths next to the Harbour office. Every reeled in on large windlasses. The tugs took there
time a ship moves on or off Abbot Point the Tugs, the place and dragged the ship off the jetty and swung the
Gloucester and the Denison, and Pilot Boat, the bow around to point to open sea. The pilot boat
Hillsborough, have to steam out to assist. Day or stands by for all this and waits for the pilot that
night, regardless of weather. boarded the ship on the jetty to indicate when he is
satisfied that the ship is clear enough of the area to
A mate of mine, John Blair, was substituting for the allow the normal ships master to resume control. The
regular skipper of the pilot boat and offered me a ride pilot boat then comes along side and a rope ladder is
to have a look at the operation. Being nosey at a dropped over the side of the ship.
professional level…… I could not refuse. The weather After the pilot scrambles down the
was good for my little adventure and day light was ladder the pilot boat either carries
required for photos. The expected call came in on the the pilot to the next vessel in line to
mobile and we met at the boat. Besides the skipper, dock or in our case this trip, delivers
John Blair there was also the crew, John Rienke. him back to the jetty to climb
another ladder up.
The Hillsborough is 14.88 metres and powered by
twin GMC diesels making 385 horse power each. I was given an easier example
Though it isn't often needed at this port, the boat is of the exercise. Bad weather and
equipped for extended stays. The full galley includes stacked up ships can make the job
an electric stove top. That's unusual for most boats tough at times but today was
but safer than the more common gas arrangement. good.
The pilot house is equipped with all the modern Just another day at the office.
navigation features and get this…air conditioning!
The Hillsborough is normally skippered by Steve
Once out to clear water we made about 17 knots
(about 32 klms hr), which made short work of the
voyage to Abbot Point. We arrived to find the ship
Moxham of Queens Beach.
Ad space
The Coastal Passage #9 2004 Page 11

Magnificent Maggie Island
Dot & Alistair at Hawkins Pt., Picnic Bay
Alistair circumnavigates Magnetic Island,&
(i.e the residential area behind Geoffrey Bay) development can be stopped and
uncovers every rock in every bay for this inare
a general store with fuel pumps, a couple
of eateries, dive shop & training newsagency
the bay is now National Park with
some presence of the Scouts. It has
depth guide... and the Arcadia Pub (now known as Arkies), &
given over to backpackers. It still has public
a shelving sandy beach, a double
row of casuarinas for picnic shade &
bar & bottle shop at times a running creek at the N
Story & Photos: end. Used to be popular for
Page 12 The Coastal Passage #9 2004
ALMA BAY camping or BBQ ashore, but no fires
Alister Cole, SV “September Morn”
allowed now. Shore access is by a
Some years ago a delightful Ulsterman called Danny McBride kept his RL 28 at Just round Bremner Pt. from Geoffrey, Alma is
dreadful road, behind which is an
anchor off Pallarenda and wrote articles for the yachting press. He also owned a a favourite swimming beach & home of
old track to The Forts high above.
sabot and on one occasion he put a sleeping bag in one buoyancy compartment Arcadia LS Club, with lawns & trees & BBQ
Approach along the S side of the
& some tins of food in the other & set off to record a circumnavigation of facilities behind. Good coral along either
bay only, good holding close to the
Magnetic Island. I haven't done it in a sabot, but from long association with the side, used for elementary diver training. By
rocks. N half of bay is marked by
Island both from seaward & on land, here is one man's guide to this great sailing common consent, no-one anchors in or off the
Marine Park buoys. No anchorage,
destination, starting with... bay. Heading N from Alma there is a mile or
but said by tour operators to now
so of rocky shore leading to:
have some of the best coral for
PICNIC BAY diving or snorkelling, which is quite
ARTHUR BAY easy to do off the beach.
Until recently the busy access & egress port, but since the ferries now go to
Nelly Bay, it is a ghost town. The jetty is still there, although a previous
minister wanted to demolish it, and you can land people on it or fish off it.
Approach: Between Hawkins Point & the red pole about 200 metres offshore.
You can come in on the tide over the reef which rings the Bay, but best play it
safe. Anchorage: To south of jetty off the lifesaving club. On the other side
of the jetty the reef runs from mid-jetty to Hawkins Pt & holding not good.
Anchorage is open from NE to SW but is favoured by cruisers in northerly
conditions. Facilities: Most of the pub & the shops in the Mall have been
This is a small beach in the angle between the
N/S shoreline and the un-named headland
which is the easternmost point of the island.
Easily recognized from seaward by large
house behind the beach, but the beach is
public. Open to the SE but a pretty day
anchorage. Said to be wreck of a barge near
the point but I haven't been able to find it.
Proceeding N there is a rocky
indentation called Gowrie Bay of no
importance, then the NE corner of
the island & about 100 metres off
this the remarkable collection of
enormous rocks, Orchard Rocks.
Said to be a good fishing area.
Quite safe to go between Orchard
demolished to make way for a block of units yet to be built. There is a bar &
bottle shop, a small convenience store, a service station for fuel in cans, a FLORENCE BAY
Rocks & the Island but not a lot to
gain by so doing, & then you come
fish & chipper & coffee shop, other wise bulldozed desolation in the name of
progress.
Round Hawkins Pt you see a long stretch of beach running N & S, which is:-
This is a gem of a bay. Some time ago was
given by Jo Bielke Petersen to one of his
henchmen knights for a 1000 bed hotel, golf
course, Marina, the lot. A rare example that if
there is enough public anger, indiscriminate
to:
Continued page 16...
NELLY BAY
In fact, the south end, delineated by a small rock Headland, is known as
Rocky Bay, a good sandy swimming beach only accessible by land down a
steep track. It's a good day picnic anchorage, & the beach used to be noted
for nude sunbathing but not now. Just N of Rocky Bay is Coconuts
backpacker resort identifiable by A-frame huts, at present closed for
renovation at snail's pace. If it reopens, you can anchor off for a bar &
restaurant and heavy metal parties some nights. There is good coral for
snorkelling off the beach. For the remainder of the Bay up to the harbour,
the beach has lost a lot of its sand & the reef extends about 300metres
offshore with patches of good coral. It doesn't offer much for a cruising
anchorage unless you want to walk the dogs. Unmistakable at the north end
of Nelly Bay is the past & continuing cause of disputation between developers
& conservationists…
MAGNETIC HARBOUR
Usually known to the locals as Nelly Bay Harbour, this is now the passenger
ferry terminal, but at the time of writing not much else is happening at the
much trumpeted “New Noosa”. The ferry landing pontoon & adjacent
swinging area must be kept clear, & is supervised by a DOT official.
Otherwise there are vacant blocks of land, some with associated pontoon
jetty, a small craft launching ramp, and a multitude of piles which may one
day turn into a Marina. It doesn't constitute a long term or even overnight
anchorage, but is a handy place to come in for the facilities which are only a
short walk away. I suggest come in & either anchor off the launching ramp
or pick up one of the jetties, do what you have to ashore & nick off.
Approach: Is by well marked channel which is also very sloppy if seas
running. Facilities are supermarket, pharmacy, bottle shop, doctor's surgery,
public medical clinic, Post Office, bakery & 2 hardware shops all close to the
Harbour, about 5 minutes further walk to butcher & fuel in cans. There is one
upmarket restaurant, and 3 other eateries. At the North end of Nelly is Bright
Point which was once a typical island headland of rocks & hoop pines, but
now a scene of desolation after the stone for the Harbour was quarried there.
One thing; it's easy to recognize from seaward, a bloody great red scar on the
landscape. Around Bright Point is:
GEOFFREY BAY
Like Nelly Bay, a long sandy beach with reef off it & drying mud at the N end
on low tides. It is a GBRMPA green zone, no fishing, but snorkelling & diving
OK. At N end of bay is the ramp for the vehicular ferry, about 100 metres off
this is the wreck of the “Moltke” marked by a spar buoy and a national parks
mooring buoy for light craft. Not a lot of the wreck left but good coral and
lots & lots-a fish, water often a bit turbid due to barges manoeuvring. If
anchoring off take care to stay out of vehicular barges' approach, not much
here to anchor for but some do in northerly conditions. Facilities at Arcadia
Nelly Bay

Tasmania: the summer alternative!
By: Graeme Hurst
Photos supplied by: Graeme
SV Quiet Achiever
BASS STRAIT WEATHER
You have planned your trip well if you get to Eden in
early January, as the best months to cruise Tassie
are January through to Easter. The winds at this time
Rugged west coast first, or sail down the pretty east
coast. We chose to cruise the west coast first. There
are also two routes to the west coast to be
considered. From Eden you can cruise west along
are generally light, and frequently easterly to south the north coast of Tassie, which we recommend. You
We realise that Queensland's coast is an ideal
place to spend the winter. But when the summer
heat arrives, and you can't cool off in the water
for the stingers and other bities, then it is time to
head south. Now there are many southerly
alternatives to consider, but the treasure awaiting
the adventurous is Tasmania. Summer in
Tasmania is a cruising highlight in any cruiser's
sailing experiences. And there are no sandflies!
easterly, with fairly frequent northerlies, so the
patient can expect a good crossing. In this part of
the world, the weather follows quite predictable
cycles. A hot northerly will build slowly over a few
days until it can reach 20-30 knots. A SW cold front
then typically comes in very quickly, with 20-30
knots, and a sharp drop in temperature. The SW
slowly abates over a few days and the wind can go
from SW through to SE and may become an easterly
which can last a week or more, or return slowly to
can also cruise the Victorian coast line through to
King Island, which is the route we have chosen here.
We had determined that Tasmania consisted of a
number of different cruising grounds where we
would spend time in a variety of sheltered
anchorages, and a number of other interesting spots
which were more of a brief transit stop when moving
to the next cruising ground, so we planned our trip
around this. Included in the planning was the
Getting to Tassie from Queensland can be an
adventure in itself, providing an opportunity to visit
exciting cruising locations along the way such as
Port Stephens, Lake Macquarie, Pittwater and the
Hawkesbury system, Sydney Harbour, and the pretty
south coast fishing ports. On the far south coast of
New South Wales is the lovely fishing village of Eden,
with its safe all-weather harbour. Here is an ideal
place to wait for the right weather window to cross
Bass Strait, which is where I will now pick up this
story.
another northerly and the cycle is repeated. The
weather is influenced by high's in the Great
Australian Bight, and cold fronts that flick up from
the SW. The last day of a northerly, and the first day
or two of a SW change are not usually pleasant days
to be out at sea. Also be very wary if a low develops
off the eastern end of Bass Strait, which will make
conditions extreme.
Watching the weather from Eden is a good time to
make the decision whether to make for Tassie's
logistics of how much food, water, fuel, etc would be
needed in getting from one point of replenishment
to the next, so in most cases, each nominated
cruising ground has a port with provisioning
available nearby. We planned our trip to include
minimal overnight passages, and to be able to sit
safely in sheltered locations while waiting for the
right conditions before moving to our next
destination. A trip to Tassie is more likely to be
enjoyable if there is no fixed time schedule.
Continued next page...
Holding Tank For Fifty Bucks?
No Way!!!
By Steve George, SV “OasisII”
“Quiet Achiever” at Stanley Harbour
Thanks for the great read I look forward to each edition. It's July 1 and I am siting
happy with my recent conversion to holding tank by what I consider the most miserly of
methods and requiring a mere $50 of my hard earned cash to satisfy the bureaucrats!
(Editors note: We cannot guarantee “officialdom” will go for this, but who knows?)
To start with I was lucky enough to already have a macerating pump toilet. One of my
spare 20 litre water containers that has two filler caps and a plug for the plastic valve at
the bottom could easily do the job. By turning the tank on it's side and mounting in a
locker near the toilet, I was simply needing to attach 38mm inlet and outlet hoses
between anti-siphon U and skin fitting valve, drill a small hole through the valve plug
for 8mm breather hose and run that to a breather and presto! No more fuss. Just put a
little port-a-pottie treatment in the loo when you close the valve and wait till I'm out of
the marina before dropping the contents. When we are at sea I just leave the valve open
and it just drains straight through the tank when flushing. By the time they ever get to
install pump-outs all over the coast, I may even put in a Y valve just below the tank to
enable discharge to the surface skin fitting. Will we ever see the day?
So for all those complaining about the rules and regs, and I hate it myself.
A small outlay and a bit of thought can easily overcome the worry.
COSTING: 1 X 20ltr water container $16.95
2 X mtr 38mm Black flexi-hose $13.90
2 X mtr 8mm clear breather hose$ 4.80
6 X 50mm SS hose clamps $11.70
TOTAL $48.50
Added note:
Steve and Leanne George
bought OASIS II, their
Auckland 34 by Hartley in Oct
2003 and have sailed around
Mooloolaba for 6 months
before making the trip north
to Airlie Beach where she will
stay till Oct before returning
south.
Some readers may recognise
the name from when she
sailed in many races around
Western Port Vic between
1984 1997, and Steve would
love to hear from anyone who
knows anything of those
beginnings. Please contact
oasis11sg@yahoo.com.au
Deal Island Lighthouse
“Q A” at Warner’s Landing
on the Gordon River
The Coastal Passage #9 2004 Page 13

“
Tasmania” continued...
CRUISING GROUND 1
VICTORIAN COAST LINE
When suitable easterly or northerly winds arrived, we
set off for Wilson's Promontory which is the most
southerly point of the Australian mainland. Usually
planned as an overnight sail, this trip does not
depend on tides. The Prom is a delightful destination
and is a national park. Best anchorages are Refuge
Cove in all winds except easterly, or Oberon Bay
which gives excellent shelter from easterlies. There
are lovely walks from Refuge Cove to Waterloo Bay
or Sealers Cove. To the north is the all weather port
of Port Welshpool where limited supplies can be
obtained, and the lovely easterly anchorages of
Chinaman's Beach in Corner Inlet.
From the Prom, there is another longish sail up to
Westernport Bay, with good safe anchorage behind
Cape Woolamai in the eastern entrance near San
Remo. There is an excellent marina at Hastings
which is accessed from the western entrance to the
Bay, where all services and provisioning is available
close by. It is best to move with the tides in
Westernport Bay.
The next port to consider is Port Phillip Bay, but
care needs to be taken at the entrance, known as
The Rip. Some planning is required here with tide
and wind. Slack water is best, which is about the
same time as high/low tide at Williamstown. Port
Phillip Bay is very large, but does not offer much in
the way of safe, all-weather anchorages. There are
moorings off Sorrento which are best in SW-SE
“QA” resting at “Con Dock” Downtown Hobart
Page 14 The Coastal Passage #9 2004
winds, or Geelong is
also a good option.
A long sail up to the
top of the Bay brings
you to Melbourne,
but there are poor
facilities for visiting
yachties, except in
private yacht clubs
such as
Sandringham,
Brighton or
Williamstown.
Cruising yachts may
choose to bypass
Port Phillip Bay to
give more time in
Tassie.
Heading west the
next safe anchorage
is at the pretty
fishing and holiday
village of Apollo Bay.
This man-made
harbour is a good in
all weather,
although the
entrance needs care
if there is much in
the way of a southerly swell. Further west, there is
another delightful harbour at Port Fairy, the prettiest
on the coast. From either of these ports, you can
wait for the right winds for the passage to King
Island, a relatively short hop to the South. We were
heading for New Year Island off the North coast, but
the SW swell and wind increased, making conditions
a bit unpleasant, so we changed our course for the
sheltered eastern side of King Island and anchored
off the pretty little settlement of Naracoopa. The
early French explorers noted correctly that King
Island has no natural harbours, and there are few
sheltered places to anchor. From Naracoopa, we
moved south to probably the best of the Island's
harbours at Grassy where we picked up the heaviest
mooring we've ever encountered. This man-made
harbour is easy to enter and gives shelter from all
weather. We hitched a ride across to the main town
at Currie where we hired a car and toured the island
including the famous cheese factory. Good meals
can be had at the Grassy Club, and the crayfish pies
at the Currie bakery are a treat!
CRUISING GROUND 2
HUNTER GROUP/STANLEY
When conditions were favourable we set off for the
Hunter Group on Tasmania's NW corner. We found
these uninhabited islands beautiful with many
sheltered coves and white sandy beaches. This
cruising ground will appeal to the more adventurous
cruiser who enjoys remoteness and natural beauty
without the crowds. Shelter from all winds can be
found at one of the many coves around Three
Hummock Island and the Eastern shore of Hunter
Island. We met a Melbourne yacht who gave
us some abalone they had caught. Nearby
Stanley is the main port and has a good
harbour and friendly harbour master who
made us very welcome. The historic town
centre is a short stroll away, and a climb up
The Nut is well worth the effort
We returned to Hunter Island and waited
for suitable conditions to move down to
Macquarie Harbour and Strahan. The Hunter
Passage gives good access to the West
coast, and it is preferable to move in the
direction of the strong tidal flow. The trip
south to Macquarie Harbour is one of the
longest legs of our trip, so we made an
overnight passage to arrive at Hell's Gates
in daylight.
CRUISING GROUND 3
MACQUARIE HARBOUR
Entry into Macquarie Harbour through Hell's
Gates is spectacular, as the entrance is
quite narrow. We are told Hell's Gates got
its name as the entrance to the penal
settlement at Sarah Island regarded by
convicts as “hell”. It is best to time your
arrival with an incoming tide, but if you
arrive on an out-going tide, the nearby
Pilots Bay offers good anchorage until the
tide turns, although take care if NW winds
are forecast. Once inside the Harbour there
is good shelter and many excellent allweather
anchorages on this large sheltered
waterway set mainly in a rugged wilderness
area.
The village of Strahan in the North is well-
serviced with shops, bakery, fuel, water, hot showers
and space can usually be found on the town wharf,
although, take care not to tie up in the area used by
the tour boats. To the South are excellent
anchorages in Kelly's Basin and Farm Cove, but the
highlight is a trip up the Gordon River to Warners
Landing, the scene of the protests that ultimately
saved the Franklin River from being dammed.
Almost opposite Warners Landing is the excellent
jetty at Sir Johns Falls, which in turn are spectacular.
This is the better place to tie up, and makes an
excellent base for further exploration by dinghy
further up the Gordon to the Franklin River. The
short stroll to the waterfall takes you past a number
of huon pines which are several hundred years old
mere saplings in the life of these ancient trees.
At the Southern end of the Harbour is the infamous
Sarah Island penal settlement, which is an
interesting historical site accessible by dinghy.
Heading North up the Harbour, we found another
excellent anchorage on the Western shore called
Double Cove, where we watched a Tasmanian Devil
go about his daily routine on the shoreline while we
had breakfast. The fishing isn't too good in
Macquarie Harbour because of the brackish, tanninstained
water.
CRUISING GROUND 4
PORT DAVEY
Located a day's sailing away in Tassie's remote SW
corner, is the beautiful Port Davey an outstanding
wilderness cruising area. The harsh grandeur of its
wilderness panorama is unforgettable. Gone are the
mossy rainforests of Macquarie Harbour, replaced by
the rugged mountain slopes of one of the most
pristine places on earth. The slopes are thinly
covered by the hardiest grasses and heaths, while
trees huddle in the shelter of the creek valleys
dominated by the craggy mountain peaks of grey
weathered granite. Many of these mountains have
reasonable walking tracks offering amazing views,
including Mt Rugby, which takes a full day.
Deeper into Bathurst Harbour, anchorages abound
in many sheltered coves, and the river-like waterway
up to Melaleuca is a unique journey. A stop at
Claytons Hut is recommended formerly the home of
a fisherman and the daughter of a local tin-miner
who met while hiking in the area, it is now managed
by the Parks department, and is available for use by
visitors. Some very unusual fish can be caught in the
area including species yet to be catalogued by
science! We caught an odd-looking shark!
There are many lovely anchorages near the
entrance to Port Davey such as Bond Bay in the
North and Spain Bay in the south which has a track
leading to a large aboriginal midden site containing
many shells, animal bones and primitive tools. There
is no settlement for hundreds of kilometres, so don't
expect shops or fuel stops, but there is a waterfall
which has a bucket and hose suspended under it
where you can top up your water or have a shower!
When our time to leave came, we headed south for
the spectacular South West Cape, before turning east
for Recherche Bay, south of Hobart. To break up the
journey, we stayed at New Harbour on the South
coast, which proved to be a surprising highlight of
the trip. Facing SE towards the Southern Ocean and
Maatsyker Island, New Harbour is a beautiful deep
and sheltered bay surrounded by ancient mountains
and rain forest very similar to that seen in the upper
reaches of the Gordon River.
Continued next page...
“Chandra, Graeme, & Isabella “above” Port Davey

settlement is fascinating. Pick your This cruising ground covers the North East corner of
weather before crossing Storm Bay, or Tasmania, the Furneaux Group, and the Kent Group.
you will be reminded how it got its It is important to note that there is little scope for
name! provisioning in this cruising ground, so a good stock
up in Tassie before leaving is necessary. We left with
Care must also be taken in choosing the high tide across the St Helens bar and sadly
suitable weather to round Tasman watched Tassie slip slowly over the horizon as we
Island as conditions can be extreme at headed north. There are sheltered anchorages at the
times, but the east coast of the NE tip of Tassie where it is possible to wait for good
Tasman Peninsula is worth it. There is conditions for crossing Banks Strait, but as conditions
a great anchorage in Canoe Bay which were good, we headed directly for Cape Barren Island
is in the NE corner at the southern end of the Furneaux Group. There are
Of Fortesque Bay. From this delightful many lovely anchorages here depending on wind
anchorage behind an old ship wreck, direction, with white sandy beaches and the lovely
you can take a scenic walk around to mountains of the islands rising behind. The next day,
the main beach. An emperor penguin we sailed up to the pretty village of Lady Barren,
was preening itself on the beach while approaching from the east. The wreck of the Farsund,
we were there, and was unafraid as we an old square rigger sits on the beach near the
sat quite close to observe. entrance with its hull intact, although well-ventilated!
Further north is Lagoon Bay with its After hitching a ride across to the main town of
beautiful kelp forests that can be Whitemark, we hired a car and toured the island. The
“Quiet Achiever” sailing the Derwent River viewed best on calm days when the remains of the old aboriginal settlement at Wybilena
water is glassy. At the top of the where the last of Tasmania's aboriginals were taken,
Tasman Peninsula is the Entrance to is a sad reminder of a terrible chapter in Australia's
“Tasmania” continued... Blackmans Bay and the Dunalley Channel. This man- history. The beach at Trousers Point should not be
made channel makes it possible to sail through from
CRUISING GROUND 5
missed, and if you can last more
the Tasman Sea directly to Storm Bay without passing than 10 minutes without ripping your clothes off and
D'ENTRECASTEAU CHANNEL AND HOBART around Tasman Island. A good option if the weather jumping in, you are losing your sense of romance!
is not favourable. Care with tide and wind is required
The trip east across the south coast of Tasmania ends
at the eastern entrance to the bay, but once inside, We travelled further up the eastern coast of Flinders
upon arrival at Recherche Bay Tasmania's
there is safe anchoring while good fresh fish and Island to the pretty Babel Island named by Flinders
southernmost anchorage. Recherche is big bay with a
crays can be bought at the Western end of the after the noise generated by the many species of
number of sheltered coves, separated by kelp-lined
channel. The large bay from which Blackmans Bay is birds that call it home. There are good anchorages
headlands, and sandy beaches with tall eucalypts to
entered is referred to in Tasman's log after his visit in here, and interesting remains of the mutton bird
the waters-edge. The wreck of the James Craig lay
the mid-1600's. Cook, Bligh and others knew of it industry.
here for many decades before being refloated and
from Tasman's records before they arrived.
restored at Darling Harbour. She now sails proudly on
Sydney Harbour. CRUISING GROUND 7
From Babel Island we moved up to the Northern tip
of Flinders Island where there are more good
MARIA ISLAND/FREYCINET PENINSULA anchorages at the Sisters Islands, and these make a
Recherche Bay was named by the early French
good stopover while waiting for favourable conditions
explorers and makes a great entrance to the
delightful D'Entrecasteau Channel. This large
waterway separates Bruny Island from Tasmania,
and contains some of the most beautiful sheltered
anchorages you will ever find. The southern
entrance begins with the many white sandy beaches
east of Partridge Island. These beautiful beaches
are set in unspoilt forest, with the occasional Tassie
weekend shack enjoying views you can usually only
dream of. Mickey's Beach, Tin Pot and The Quarries
are not to be missed.
The Huon River enters the Channel and also makes a
great cruising destination, with lovely cheap and
delicious meals available at the Port Huon hotel.
Consider staying overnight at lovely Copper Alley Bay
As we continued north, we reached the delightful
Maria Island with its sheltered anchorages in the
south, and historic penal settlement of Darlington in
the North. Excellent fishing is possible and there are
some great walks once ashore. The convict
settlement at Darlington pre-dates Port Arthur, and is
intact, with the buildings now used for backpacker
accommodation. To the west on the Tassie mainland
is the well-serviced port of Triabunna if needed.
Continuing north, we sailed past the isolated Isle De
Phoque which accommodates one of the largest seal
colonies we have ever seen.
The next landfall is Schouten Island which forms
part of the Freycinet Peninsula national park. There
for the trip across Bass Strait to the Kent Group of
islands. Most cruising yachts will choose
to set off directly to Eden from Flinders Island, but
the Kent Group is a jewel in Bass Strait and for us is
worth the slight detour.
The main island of the Kent Group is Deal Island and
it accommodates the tallest lighthouse in the
southern hemisphere. Although it is no longer used,
it makes a good scenic walk, and gives spectacular
views across the islands and Bass Strait, with Flinders
Island often visible to the SE. There are a number of
sheltered anchorages around the group depending on
conditions, although it is not a pleasant place to be if
strong NE winds are forecast.
on the way to Port Cygnet. There are small
settlements at the fishing ports of Southport and
Dover where limited supplies can be bought.
Further North in the Channel are more pretty and
sheltered anchorages in Barnes Bay and the
Duckponds, across from the delightful harbour of
are good anchorages in the Schouten Passage which
separates the Island from the rest of the Peninsula,
and the township of Coles Bay is not far away. The
anchorage at Bryans Corner is popular, and there is
a lovely nature walk across to Cooks Corner and its
delightful beach and old hut.
When favourable conditions presented, we left Deal
Island for our return to Eden, some three months
after leaving here. Our return also marked the
completion of our circumnavigation of Tasmania.
It is hard to put everything into an article such as
Kettering, with its fabulous pub looking out over On the Eastern shore is the famous Wineglass Bay this, but we encourage you to consider Tasmania
the marina. and it is a great place to stop except in Easterly
as a summer destination as it is an amazing
conditions. The best anchorage is in the southern cruising ground. It is best to give yourself time to
The Northern end of the Channel enters into the corner, and there is a good walk to the Northern both enjoy all Tasmania offers, and also to be able
mouth of the Derwent River opposite the square light- end up to a lookout which gives fabulous scenic to sit tight in a safe harbour until the conditions
house known as the Iron Pot which welcomes the views south across the bay. It rained for two days are favourable for your next leg.
ocean yacht racers into Hobart each year. A while we were there, but fortunately the Grand Prix at
short trip up the river brings you into Hobart, with Albert Park was showing on the only
one of the most picturesque waterfronts in Australia, TV station we could pick up, so all
under the backdrop of the magnificent Mt Wellington. was not lost! Isabelle made a cake
The lovely historic waterfront was bustling with the yum!
colour and splendour of the Wooden Boat Festival
when we arrived.
The trip north from Freycinet does
not offer many comfortable
The Royal Yacht Club in Sandy Bay can usually find a
spot for your vessel, or the Bellerive Yacht Club or
Motor Yacht Club on the Eastern shore are more
economical options, but require a trip over the
Tasman Bridge to get to town. Berthing is also
available in Constitution Dock - except when the
Wooden Boat Festival is on. There are good showers
and laundry facilities available on the wharf. Breakfast
in nearby Salamanca Place, with the busy market on a
Saturday morning is a favourite treat of ours.
anchorages, but does have places to
anchor safely overnight. We stopped
at the pretty town of Bicheno, but it
rolled a bit as we lay at anchor
amongst the local fishing fleet. The
coastline can be passed quite closely
for most of the way giving you the
chance to see some of the most idyllic
rural homes you would ever find, with
the beach out front, the mountains
Hobart is an excellent restocking opportunity with
fuel and water available from the Royal Yacht Club,
and good shopping from nearby Sandy Bay.
behind, and miles of tall forests and
ferny gullies all around. A nature-
lover's paradise!
From Hobart, we passed back through the
D'Entrecasteaux Channel to stay at Cloudy Bay on the
south coast of Bruny Island, before heading across
Storm Bay to Port Arthur. Adventure Bay, on the
eastern side of Bruny Island is was used by Tasman
and Cook on their historic voyages of discovery.
The pretty town of St Helens is on
the NE corner of Tassie, and it makes
an excellent stopover if conditions
across the sand bar are safe. You can
call the local Coast Guard who
will send a boat out to guide you in. Once inside,
there is a beautiful sheltered harbour across a big
CRUISING GROUND 6
saltwater lake. This is the warmest part of Tassie, and
TASMAN PENINSULA
The Tasman Peninsula offers some delightful cruising
opportunities, and one of the most memorable is Port
Arthur - right in the convict settlement harbour. The
nearby visitors centre offers good coffee and meals,
and a few days strolling around the historic convict
a favourite retirement destination. An excellent
shopping centre is right by the wharf, and there is
fuel, water and hot showers available nearby.
CRUISING GROUND 8
BASS STRAIT ISLANDS
Isabelle & Graeme.originally from Melbourne,
began cruising in 2003, and along with the
Tasmania cruise, have cruised Australia’s eas
coast. We hope see “Q A” and crew someday...
maybe on a paper delivery!
The Coastal Passage #9 2004 Page 15

.
“Magnificent Maggie Island” concludes..
RADICAL BAY
This is THE GEM of the Island. About 400
metres of shelving sandy beach with
spectacular rock formations at each end
Above the eastern headland you can almost
always see a Brahman kite circling & on the
W end is a large boulder with a sea eagles
nest on it. Behind the beach are the
remains of a low-key resort. The downside
is that southern developers are proposing
to build 100 units in 5 storey blocks and 12
townhouses along the beach, which would
deny public access & completely ruin the
area. By land it is accessible by the same
broken down road as Florence, or by
walking track from Horseshoe Bay.
Anchorage: Even in calm conditions it is a
bit rolly. Tuck in as close to the beach &
east headland as possible. Good sand
holding. You can swim to good coral on the
point facing Orchard Rocks. Good wind
shelter except for NW.
BALDING BAY
Separated from Radical by the “Sea Eagle's
Headland”, the bay has a good sandy beach
& only accessible by walking track from
Horseshoe has a reputation for nude
sunbathing. Although it looks an attractive
anchorage, is always rolly due to reflected
waves off the headlands., but a good day
trip from Horseshoe for swimming, rock
climbing, don't know about coral there.
Passing Balding there is about half a mile of
rocky shoreline leading to a point - aptly
named “The Point”. Don't round it too close as
submerged rocks close off, and then the vista
before you is the cruisers' favourite,
Horseshoe Bay.
HORSESHOE BAY
Approach from east, round the point not too
close, then watch out for shark drum line
buoys, usually several in this area. Heading
south a shallow bay with a beach - White Lady
Bay - has an oyster lease to be avoided, then a
small headland with a painted rock on it which
looks like a Madonna, hence White Lady Point.
From the west, round White Rock and watch
out for shark buoys, then straight in towards
anchorage, almost never without vessels in it.
Anchorage: Extensive area between White
Lady & the beach & shelves gradually.
Protected for everything except nor westerlies,
when a nasty short chop develops & wise
heads move to Florence or Picnic. Best to tuck
in as far south & east as you can manage.
There is a gutter leading almost up to the
FIVE BEACHES BAY
This is National Park & under GBRMPA recent zoning a
green “no take” area. Of the five beaches, the three
middle ones are just short stretches of sand between
rocks, the two end ones are anchorages of interest.
Maud Bay is tucked around a little headland past White
Rock which offers protection from the swell which often
runs along the north side of the island, a pleasant
beach with a disused hut behind, good holding.
Huntingfield Bay at the west end has a steeply shelving
sandy beach allowing anchorage quite close in but still
a bit rolly. Its main attraction is that ashore, &
particularly on the east end of the beach, are two
steeply descending watercourses with waterfalls and
rock pools if it ever rains enough. Whether running or
not, it is a good climb with views, a favorite spot for
Townsvilleans after rain.
Between Five Beaches Bay & West Point there is not
much of cruising interest. Keen eyed observers will
notice the change in geology and vegetation form
granitic in the east to volcanic after Huntingfield Bay.
Around a small point ( Liver Point) is the aptly named
Rollingstone Bay, stony & unlovely, then on to West
Point. Along this stretch of the north coast there are
often very strong wind gusts extending well out to sea,
known to locals as West Point Bullets.
ball), then head for this cape until on a line between
Bay Rock & Townsville Harbour, then turn onto this -
“head for the big cranes”. Despite all this advice, keep
the depth sounder on & best not to attempt it at low
water springs. Sailing craft may encounter fickle
winds for a while until picking up the prevailing
east/northeasterly. In other words, give West Point a
wide berth. You can anchor off the beach, a fair way
out, a nice beach but nothing much else ashore, a few
houses on own power & water, used to be a popular
beach for BBQs but can't light fires on the Island
anywhere now.
Approach to Townsville, look out for Middle Reef
west mark, a cardinal mark flashing 9 & leave to port,
then straight in, again “head for the big cranes” & you
can sort out the entrance on getting closer. At night
the lights can be very confusing even to locals, if in
doubt, leave all harbour lights to Starboard until
picking up the obvious channel leads.
If approaching Picnic Bay to complete our
circumnavigation, leave west Middle Reef to starboard
but keep well off the island until Picnic Bay & its jetty
well abeam & you can pick up the mark off Hawkings
Point.
Which is where we started...
launching ramp, but close in it tends to be
noisy from jet skis & other “motorised water
WEST POINT
sports” There are shifting sandy shoals
The Bay got a bad press from Lucas in earlier
editions for sea grass preventing good holding
- not obvious now BUT decades of all sorts of
craft anchoring have left some peculiar things
on the seabed -we have pulled up a big tree &
branches tangled in our warp, also some
sailcloth wrapped round the anchor preventing
it from digging in. Once firmly in, the anchor
is in thick black glutinous mud, always have a
bucket of water handy when weighing.
extending well out westwards
from the Point and also well out
E/NE from Cape Pallarenda, with
the so-called West Channel
between, now only navigable to
small craft. We have been
aground or nearly so on several
occasions by straying too close
to the Pallarenda side.
Reception for Seaphone and mobiles is not
good in some locations, but may improve
Onward to...
when a new repeater is installed at The Forts.
In strong E/SE conditions, quite hefty bullets BAY ROCK
can be experienced. Facilities: In a decade or A small island about a mile NW of
so Horseshoe Bay has changed from “the end West Point, used to have a pretty
of the line“ to a fashionable area. There are little lighthouse on it (now in
pleasant lawns & trees behind the beach with Townsville Maritime Museum), is
BBQs & a rotunda where yachts have left the focal point for approaches to
plaques, & a stinger net with lifeguard are in Townsville from the north & east.
place between about November & May. There It has a small beach & sandpit
is a tavern with bottle shop, a reasonably suitable for day picnic &
sized general store, boutiques and 3 or 4 scramble ashore, but is mostly a
eateries. No fuel is place you record as having
available. Regular buses connect with the passed on the way to somewhere
ferries and you can be in Townsville in less else...
than an hour . Two large backpacker lodges
ensure a supply of young people on the beach.
Proceeding westward on our circumnavigation,
we pass White Rock capped with guano,
behind which is a small beach called Lovers
Bay, but have never seen it put to that
purpose, then...
Approach to West Point from
the east it is best to head for Bay
Rock until you have opened up
West Channel between it &
C.Pallarenda, (which is easily
recognized by the radar “golf
Page 16 The Coastal Passage #9 2004

HEAD-LESS
(At least he is in good company; sh ou ld ha ve be en wa rn ed wh en th e
even solo circumnavigator Kay installation itself turned from a half-hour job
(Toilet Trauma)
Cottee rates a blocked toilet as
worse than a boat high and dry on
into a half-day job (half a day we had planned
to spend cruising of course).
By Briar Jensen
a sandbar or a rope around the
propeller!)
Being head-less can cause serious
discomfort, even if only for a few
hours.
Don't get the impression that I'm
not sympathetic. I know a thing
or two about the unpleasantness
An hour after emerging with the pump handle
the skipper was still squeezed into the
bathroom, dripping in perspiration and
uttering unprintable profanities. (Our
I was reminded of this the other
day. Just as I was about to visit the
head, the skipper emerged
brandishing the toilet pump-
handle. Exactly how he came to be
holding it, I was afraid to ask. The
desperate look on his face (of a
man condemned to another bout
of hard labour in the solitary
confinement of our torturously
small WC) was enough to silence me.
of dealing with marine toilets.
I've had a fearful respect of them
since, as an impressionable
young teenager, I joined the sail
training ship 'Spirit of Adventure'
for seven days on the high seas. I
was horrified when the captain
announced that if we blocked the
head we would have to clean it
out ourselves. When I saw one
poor girl actually having to do it, it was enough
to make my bowels clamp shut. I was
attempt to refrain from using swear words in
front of the children goes out the porthole at
moments like these.) When requested to fetch
the socket set from its secret stowage spot
(secret only because we couldn't remember) I
finally found it swimming in a puddle of water,
compliments of the never-ending leak.
Whether the new bout of profanities from the
skipper was because he couldn't find a socket
the right size or because they had rusted
beyond use, I wasn't sure and wasn't about to
ask.
Attempting to submerge my anger at being
cheated out of yet another afternoon's family
cruising by a toilet, I resigned myself to the
thankless task of keeping our inquisitive
children as far away from the skipper as
possible. Not any easy job, as the appearance
of the skipper's toolbox attracts them like a
large jar of lollies.
constipated for the rest of the trip.
Our previous boat had a portable toilet and it
became my responsibility to empty it since I
used it most. (As if it's my fault I can't stand on
the stern and let flow!) On one occasion, after
towing the boat home following an Easter
holiday, I had to empty the Port-a-Loo in our
own toilet. After nervously carrying it through
With legs crossed and buttocks clenched, I
was too scared to inquire how much longer he
would be. Instead I concentrated on trying to
remember where the emergency bucket was
stowed and wondering if I could retrieve it
without uncrossing my legs. (Knew I should
have done more of those abdominal exercises
after childbirth.) Disaster almost struck when
I was extremely grateful it hadn't been me that
broke the pump; perhaps that's why the
skipper was so furious, he couldn't vent his
anger by blaming this sanitary disaster on
someone else. Nothing irritates the skipper
as much as problems with the toilet.
Continuous motor failures, ongoing
the house I made it safely to the water closet,
only to lose control as I heaved it up to empty
it. The resultant mess defies description and
even now my stomach churns at the memory
of it. It took months to get rid of the odour. I
was thankful that we had brown-toned,
patterned wallpaper.
the mini-mariners, who I was valiantly trying to
keep out of the skipper's way, decided to play
a game that involved leaping into my lap.
As my buttocks began to sweat, the skipper
finally emerged and proclaimed the toilet
temporarily fixed.
refrigeration problems and a never-ending
leak, while endlessly frustrating, seem
insignificant when compared to the rage
caused by a problem with the head.
Therefore, I respect the skipper's utter
distaste for repairs of a sanitary nature.
However, I thought our toilet trauma had
ended with the installation of a new model. I
Relief! Another toilet trauma over.
For today, anyway.
Ad space
The Coastal Passage #9 2004 Page 17

ONE BOB ORAM PLEASE...WITH XTRA CHILLI
By Bob Norson so, they are content to stay on the coast.
“There are a thousand east coast
th
Xtra Chilli, launched the 19 of June this
year at Urangan is still getting the final
anchorages we haven't seen.”
bits and pieces put on but owners Cheryl With a home overlooking Fraser Island and
and Iain Rae anticipate their first voyage the Great Sandy Strait (Susan River) at River
around Hervey Bay within a week or so. Heads, they plan to sail half the year. Xtra
“She should go like the clappers,” said Iain. Chilli will moor in the Susan River and be
The launch went perfectly with the boat
coming in right on her designed
visible from the front driveway.
displacement and water line. The 44 foot OH.. and the name…..?? It seems they lived
cat is 4.7 tonne with water fuel and ground in Darwin for many years and enjoyed a
tackle. Iain reckons that with provisions, Curry Laska breakfast at the Saturday
crew and remaining bits and pieces she morning Multicultural Markets in Parap.
should be about 5 tonne all up. As the Mari, the Malaysian stallholder, who was
boat carries 88 square metres of plain sail, serving the dish would always ask, “You
Iain's assessment of her potential speed want xtra chilli?”
seems reasonable enough. They always did….and still do!
In spite of her sail area the rig is designed
to be easy to handle. The fractional rig is
non rotating. The Rae's want something
Xtra Chilli…notes about
that performs but that they can sail off the builder.
into retirement with. They should know
what they want. Cheryl and Iain have put
many miles in the Solomon's, PNG,
Micronesia, and the top end of the
Northern Territory on their former boat,
“Rainbow Connection” an Adams 12
metre…..monohull. “Now we want
something more comfortable and that will
keep us sailing longer. More room, bigger
beds, hot showers, nice wide decks, those
kinds of things to make life easier.” With all the
other normal things you have to have on a modern
boat, a light weight Catamaran benefits especially
from a water maker. The Rae's have equipped Xtra
Chilli with the SPECTRA brand, VENTURA model
water maker as seen in the Coastal Passage.
“Why the Bob Oram Design,” I ask? Iain said they
looked at some production boats but they didn't
have quite the performance they were looking for.
Their old Adams was a good performing craft,
turning in long voyages with 6 ½ to 7 ½ knot
TROUBLE BREWING
FOR CRUISERS LIVING ABOARD
By Frank Stoove, SV Escondido
After years of carrying home the
We store the bottles any where they
fit. Our preference is to leave the
cartons, Jane finally had enough. bottled beer for three to four weeks.
The beer, was just too heavy, Laying down for a while does not
especially the 30 can boxes. affect the beer.
We now brew our own on board. The Transferring to 'ready for use'
research for our new project was storage we store them upright prior to
hardly exhaustive, the big grocery drinking. We have a hard case friend
stores sell the kits and ingredients. who drinks the beer 'green', the worst
Cruising brewers we knew helped time being after 3 days! I reckon the
dispel the mystery and myth, we beer tastes much better after aging a
haven't bought a “slab” for three years. little.
The brew container, a 25 litre screw We have found specialist brew shops
top bucket really, does not take that to be very helpful. The choice of
much space. It does need to be lashed flavours and styles of beer is simply
securely. Ours did come adrift one day enormous. Every drinker and brewer
in a most spectacular fashion, our very has a different opinion and taste, so it
own Yellowstone Geyser in the cabin! is fun to swap ideas. I would love to
Imagine the pressure of a 25 litre hear some hints from other cruiser
shaken bottle of bubbly released brewers, at the moment we are not
inside your boat! sure about brewing conditions during
winter.
The brew does not seem to mind
being in a dynamic marine We are on the move and
environment. The yeast gets to work temperatures have been low, we have
on the syrup really well with some tried the blanket and hotwater bottle
movement that it would not get on to keep the brew kit warm, does it
shore. It does pay to find a calm matter?
anchorage for a day or two before
bottling, allowing the sediment to fall. Feedback and other ideas would be
welcome. Send a letter or article to
The bottles we use are the PEP type T.C.P. and share your expertise or
screw tops used by most soft drink questions.
manufacturers. The cola drinks seem
to have heavier duty material. There is
no need to use glass and complicated
top presses. A bonus with these
plastic bottles is that the dimples in
the bottom of the bottles seem to hold
the sediment for a clearer pour.
averages, including two memorable days to Truk
Lagoon with 198NM per 24 hours, and they wanted
something quicker still. “We wanted something that
would give us double figures and Bob's boats will,”
said Iain.
“Any destinations in mind,” I ask? Iain replied,
“We've sailed overseas and we want to look over the
Barrier reef now.” He reports that they have looked
into returning to Indonesia, the Solomon's, PNG and
these are getting less attractive than before with
anchoring charges and safety issues in most places
I contacted Wayne Jones of Streamline
Marine for a few details on the construction
of the Bob Oram boat. This is the third
Oram boat they have built, including a 76
foot vessel. The panels supplied from ATL
composites are pre-cut to the sheer for the
hulls which makes that part of the build
very quick. Decks and the rest go a more
normal pace but still a completed boat in 6
months with a four man team is respectable. Xtra
Chilli was fitted with twin 21 HP Nanni diesels.
Streamline is located at the Fisherman's Wharf
Slipway in Urangan. Whilst it seems all boat builders
producing catamarans are flat chat, Streamline may
have an opening for one boat this year….maybe.
Bob Oram's designs are also popular with the
homebuilder market. There are two under way
within an hour of this office.
The Coastal Passage #9 2004 Page 19

Passage People
“Dancing Dolphin”
Gay & Rob can be found on their annual coastal
passage between Southport & Lizard Island. Keeping
their options open to suit the weather and who they
meet on the way mean their plan is not to have a
plan. Say hello next time you see them!
(Photo & text courtesy of Frank Stoove)
“Quoll II”
Tim & Trish are originally W.A. Sailors,
but have been on the Coral Coast for a
while now, alternating between jobs in
Gladstone and the big blue. The boys,
David & Matthew seem to adapt just fine
to life on the Cat. Wouldn’t kid though?
“Tamika”
We met Harry &
Felicia several
years ago on the
way north (as you
do). Harry has
been sailing the
coast for quite a
while and has
taught Felicia the
proper way to do
it, no doubt. We
don’t pass up a
Sundowner on
Tamika, good
wine and good
company.
Cheers!!!
The three family multihulls on this page
were caught in the same anchorage by
sheer coincidence, but expose a trend we
are beginning to see. There is a
generational change occurring in the
cruising fleet. There have always been
family boats, but a percentage lately is
phenomenal...and I like it!
“Slow Rush”
Another Family boat! Ken & Judy have a new
baby, Milli, just 4 weeks old when we caught up
with them. Gray & Lucy’s new sister joined
them sailing within 4 days of birth. What a
wonderful way to start life!
“X Tra Chilli”
Iain & Cheryl have just launched their new Cat. They
impressed me as knowledgeable and discriminating
sailors and having put up with an interview from me, its
safe to say they have a sense of humor as well!
CONGRATULATION FROM TCP!
“LEAH”
Peter the poet from
“Leah” (the
Hawaiian name for
sombrero?...or was
that a Mexican
celebrating the
football result?).
Back in the “Whits”
again after a
working vacation
away from his
favourite haunts.
Poetry in motion,
Pete?
(Photo & words
courtesy of Frank
Stoove)
“Skinny Legs”
Luke is an M.D. & Niki works with
acupuncture & Chinese herbal medicine,
which makes them a remarkable couple.
They have a 16 month old baby daughter,
Evi cruising with them, that’s remarkable
as well, but the fact that they are doing it
in a Crowther Twiggy is amazing!