There are quite a few yachts moving up and down the coast. Either returning from the Sydney - Southport race or going up for Hamilton Island Race Week. It's nice when they pass close by and say hello. The picture on the left is of Tara, returning from Southport, taken around midday Sunday. This morning we heard that she had struck a rock at Seal Rocks and was badly damaged. All three crew were rescued. A not so gentle reminder to take care...
The weather has been extremely kind to us. Sunshine, Southwesterly breezes and beatiful sunsets. During the night the wind picked up gradually until at 4 am it was 25-30 knots. A single reef in the main meant Te Moana ran beautifully before the wind, occasionally reaching over 10 knots, surfing down the waves.
As I write this (Monday 9 August) we have just passed the most easterly part of Australia, Cape Byron with its famous lighthouse. From here it's only a short way to the Queensland border. We expect to be in Mooloolaba soon after day break on Tuesday, making it less than three days since we left Pittwater. Much faster than expected.
Marius
Sounds like you are all having fun in ideal sailing conditions. Great to see you off on Saturday and look forward to hearing of your safe arrival. Greetings to all the crew of Te Moana.
Skip and Liz