Pastime in Yeppoon
What was forecast to be several days of pleasant Easterly winds changed abruptly with a forecast of a gale warning for where we wanted to be.
So, we hopped up at 0440 on Sunday morning and set sail for an "overnighter" to Rosslyn Bay Marina in Yeppoon. This is near the Keppel Islands. Things went really well with a breezy and fast start.
Unfortunately, the wind died away in the middle of the passage so we had to motor for 14hrs. This is the most motoring we have done since leaving Gizo. Still, it's not a problem as we have used hardly any diesel fuel so far.
This time, we got the better of the current and managed to come out slightly "in front" by the time we arrived in Rosslyn Harbour at around 0600 this morning.
It's hard to imagine that gale force winds are forecast for just a few short hours from now. Indeed, the barometer has not budged at all so perhaps the weather bureau is in cahoots with the Mazrina here to entice all the boats into it? Anyway, we're happy to be here after eight days of sailing every day and we can replenish the bread and fresh fruit which have run out.
Yesterday and today we had fine displays of whales leaping out of the water and wagging their tails above the surface. Our first dolphin (since arriving back in Townsville) visited us this morning.
Every day since we arrived back in Oz has been sunny, blue skies, beautiful sunrises and sunsets. So, we are due to a bit of rain and howling winds. Ah well, someone has to do it........
See you,
Dave & Penny .
Val & Mike: Welcome back to Australia sounds like a great cruise. I think another CCCA Plaque is on the way next March. Lokk forward to seeing you both. cherrs Val & Mike (10/11/06)
Dave & Penny: Hi Mike and Val.
Many thanks! It is strange being back here and at the moment we have Internet Access for the first time (as opposed to just email). Ah well, time to return (slowly) to a different world.
Cheers,
D&P (10/11/06)