HAPPY BIRTHDAY Penny & Pastime in Bundaberg
We left Rosslyn Bay with high hopes of a great run to Cape Capricorn. We had forecasts from three different sources all saying mild winds and small seas. We had exactly the opposite with winds over 30kts and unpleasant swells and the usual current againbst us
Eventually, things died down somewhat and we finally anchored behind Cape Capricorn. This proved to be a very "Rolly" anchorage and we were up very early next morning to head past Gladstone for a place called Pancake Creek. More strong winds and big seas plus adverse currents! We were not the only people affected with vessels calling up the weather Bureau and asking if they were certain the forcast was right! Anyway, we talked to the Coastguard and a fellow with a huge amount of local knowledge told us of a spot we could safely anchor, North East of Gladstone. We went into this delightful spot and had an enjoyable afternoon and a great night's sleep
Next morning, it was up at 0440 to have enough tide to get out of this good spot. This we did and set off for Pancake Creek. We did have to tack back and forth for ten hours, but conditions were really good. Indeed, by mid afternoon, the conditions were the best they have been for 15 days so we decided to press on to Bundaberg. We had 10 hrs of excellent sailing and the wind died just as we were about to take down the sails. What timing!
We were tied up in a berth here in Bundaberg by 0300. It's a great spot and we can celebrate Penny's birthday in comfort
Next, we'll be off to Fraser Island in a couple of days.
Regards, Dave & Penny
Maureen: Penny, how could I have forgotten?? Many happy returns! (10/16/06)
Jenny and John: Congratulations Penny on the birthday - and to both of you and Pastime for reaching Bundy against the wind. Still blowing in Rocky. Thanks for looking us up. (10/17/06)