Ahoy - June 2023

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A U S T R A L I A & T H E S O U T H P A C I F I C

"IT'S FREE TO ENJOY AHOY!"

JUNE 2023

2023 Go East Rally 'The Adventure Begins'

Members Prize Draw Congratulations...

Jennifer F - Member Number 421.

You are this month's winner of the PredictWind Down Under Rally Members Prize Draw.

Each month the Down Under Rally draws the name of one of our members as the winner of the member's prize draw.

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The winner chooses any item from the woman's or men's range of PredictWind Clothing plus a PredictWind Cap. predictwind.com/clothing-shop

BECOME A MEMBER FOR YOUR CHANCE TO WIN downunderrally.com/membership

IN THE JUNE AHOY Members Prize Draw Winner

2

The Adventure Begins - Go East Rally 2023

5

The Hunter & The Gatherer Winner

17

VANUATU - NC2V Rally Itinerary

18

Farewell Sammy

28

Cruising New Zealand - Fiordland (Part 1)

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Niue Yacht Club Announcement

58

Crew Wanted For An 'Over The Top Adventure' 61 Mackay Marine Nib Wall Project Update

63

Members Marketplace

69

Marine Business Directory

70

Published by Down Under Rally Pty Ltd To submit an article or to enquire about advertising, contact John Hembrow Email: admin@downunderrally.com

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Website: downunderrally.com

A U S T R A L I A & T H E S O U T H P A C I F I C

©Copyright 2023 Down Under Rally Pty Ltd AHOY Sailing News is published and distributed electronically via the world wide web. Original editorial content & advertisements in this newsletter are copyrighted and the exclusive property of Down Under Rally Pty Ltd. No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means without the written permission of the Down Under Rally Pty Ltd. The comments and views in this newsletter are not necessarily those of the Down Under Rally Pty Ltd.

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The Adventure Begins

By John Hembrow Down Under Rally

After a weather-related delay of just over a week, the 2023 Go East Rally fleet of 20 vessels departed the Gold Coast on the 18th Of May. Most were happy for the delay as it provided the opportunity to slow down a little after weeks of vessel & crew preparations.

The Down Under Rally held several events in the week before the intended departure date of the 10th of May, including a hands-on Saftey At Sea Wet Drill & Flare demonstration provided by Sunshine Sailing Australia. The course participants had previously completed the course's e-learning (theory) component with Above & Beyond Boating.

The Adventure Begins

By John Hembrow Down Under Rally

In between the serious business of vessel inspections, satellite communications, weather routing & passage planning seminars, departure briefings and so on, there was also time to relax and with morning Yoga sessions and some fun social events, including a Meet The Fleet Cocktail Party, Island Time BBQ & what has become a Go East Rally tradition the Bon Voyage Masquerade Party.

The Adventure Begins

By John Hembrow Down Under Rally

These pre-departure events all took place at The Boat Works Gold Coast, where the entire staff went the extra mile to ensure we were comfortable & all of our participant's needs were catered for, including facilitating some last-minute haul-outs!

Departure Briefing The Captains Lounge @The Boat Works

Yoga Sessions with Yoga4Yachties

The Adventure Begins

By John Hembrow Down Under Rally

Vessel & Equipment Checks

Vessel & Equipment Checks

Final Registration & collection of Rally Goodies

Vessel & Saftey Equipment Inspections

The Adventure Begins

By John Hembrow Down Under Rally

Much of the following week was spent in front of computer screens using the many tools the PredictWind professional subscription provides to analyse and compare the various forecast models to determine when a suitable voyage forecast would present itself.

Vessel & Equipment Checks

On the 16th of May, a suitable forecast was identified, and the fleet gathered at the Southport Yacht Club in readiness for a departure on the 17th when the Australian Border Force (ABF) would attend and issue our outward clearance certificates.

The Adventure Begins

By John Hembrow Down Under Rally

After a final departure briefing & a well-organised, efficient & professional, yet personable visit by the ABF officers, we were ready to depart, and the excitement and anticipation levels were high... all the work was done & the long dreamed of adventure was about to begin!

The Adventure Begins

By John Hembrow Down Under Rally

As we were making the passage aboard Cavallino III, a 22.5m Motor Yacht & departing the next day, Leanne & I followed the fleet in the tender and photographed them as they made their way from the SYC to the Southport Seaway.

Without fail, each time I see all those boats heading out to sea, my emotions get the better of me & this time was no exception... it was a strange feeling when we turned back with the fleet all headed out to sea.

The Adventure Begins

By John Hembrow Down Under Rally

For most participants, the voyage itself lived up to expectations. Some found open ocean sailing more challenging than expected, while others said it was the best sailing they had ever experienced.

However, all were very excited to arrive in New Caledonia and eager to celebrate their achievement of having successfully completed their first multi-day & night ocean passage.

Sadly the vessel IRIA was forced to retire early due to steering failure and was towed back to Southport by another of the participant's vessels, Lai Lai Lady, which was a mammoth undertaking on their behalf and resulted in LAI LAI LADY also retiring, however both, LAI LAI LADY and IRIA plan on setting off again this month.

Another of the fleet, VAQUITA, suffered rigging failure and rudder damage and spent an uncomfortable 30-plus hours on a parachute anchor before resuming the voyage under a jury-rigged steering system before being met by a safety vessel and taken under tow just before they entered the pass into the lagoon in New Caledonia.

The stories of VAQUITA, IRIA & LAI LAI LADY will be shared in AHOY in the next couple of issues of AHOY, but for the moment, we are happy to say all the people are safe, and the vessels are in port.

The Down Under Rally would like to take this opportunity to acknowledge and thank the following organisations for their assistance and attention throughout the period the fleet was at sea.

Passage Guardian JRCC Canberra MRCC Noumea Noumea Yacht Services PredictWind

The Adventure Begins

By John Hembrow Down Under Rally

The Down Under Rally would also like to acknowledge & thank Bato Flags for providing our fleet & courtesy flags and Grotty Yachty Clothing, who supplied our t-shirts and for assisting with the design.

AUSTRALIA'S GREATEST BOATYARD The cleanest & greenest Australian-owned premium Boatyard & Shipyard facility.

We welcome you to experience service like no other within a dynamic and comprehensive marine community. We have a bustling marina facility where you will find a welcoming and friendly boat and superyacht yard with up to 2000 people on site any given day. Some call it the pit stop destination, or as our cruising community calls it...

UPDATE

"THE RESORT FOR YOU & YOUR BOAT"!

Servicing commercial & charter operators along with local Gold Coast BOATIES. We are centrally located between Brisbane City and Coolangatta Airport with only a 20 minute drive to the famous green and gold of the gold Coast i.e. rainforests and pristine beaches.

SIMPLY THE BEST (07) 55 000 000

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Where you can choose to work on your own boat, engage specialist marine trades, or appoint a project manager to coordinate everything on your behalf.

Wave Polars Experienced sailors intuitively know that wave conditions can have a dramatic effect on the boat's performance, not to mention the comfort level of those aboard.

Using advanced wave modelling of your boat's characteristics, the PredictWind router can now predict the performance of your boat in all wave conditions.

WATCH THE VIDEO BELOW TO LEARN MORE.

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And The Winner is...

Thanks to everyone who entered the draw to win a copy of The Hunter & The Gatherer from Exploring Eden Books, which we featured in the May Ahoy Sailing News.

We also really appreciated the feedback many of you provided about AHOY when you submitted your entry.

Congratulations, Sue S on winning the draw.

Your copy of The Hunter & The Gatherer is on its way thanks to Exploring Eden Books & Ahoy Sailing.

The Hunter & The Gatherer has been receiving some great reviews, including the one below from Noonsite in the USA, who many consider the authority on all things cruising:

This deliciously-produced book is not only a joy to look at and hold but is packed with mouth-watering recipes that you can create in your galley using ingredients you can find (almost) anywhere.

This book tackles it all, in superb style, with photographs to die for and an abundance of really useful information that will have you dying to start foraging yourself and get the pan on the stove for some recipe testing.

A book that can be enjoyed by all cruisers, both newbies and seasoned, and an inspiration to cook a meal straight from the source in the freshest form possible.

Order your copy of The Hunter & The Gatherer at: www.exploringedenbooks.com Down Under Rally Members!

Use the online discount code in the members portal to receive 20% off all Exploring Eden Books, including The Hunter & The Gatherer!

NC2V Rally 2023

Departs Noumea New Caledonia 01/08/23* DAY 1 - TUESDAY 01/08/23 Morning - Outward Clearance Formalities in Port Moselle Noumea & Final Provisioning Afternoon - Obtain Duty-Free Fuel DAY 2 - WEDNESDAY 02/08/23 All vessels to Rendzevouz at Baie du Prony by 18:00 DAY 3 - THURSDAY 03/08/23 05:00 Depart Baie du Prony for Tanna (240nm - 40 hrs @6kts) DAY 4 - FRIDAY 04/08/23 On passage DAY 5 - SATURDAY 05/08/23 Arrive at Port Resolution Tanna during the morning.

Welcome by the local people in traditional canoes as vessels arrive in the harbour. *All dates are subject to suitable weather for the voyage.

Actual events may vary from those described.

NC2V Rally 2023

TANNA DAY 6 - SUNDAY 06/08/23 No activities planned DAY 7 - MONDAY 07/08/23 MorningArrival formalities (customs/biosecurity/immigration) at Port Resolution Yacht Club Afternoon/Evening: Welcome Ceremony including Black Magic demonstration feast & custom dancing/ singing.

DAY 8 - TUESDAY 08/08/23 Custom Life Village & School tour.

Afternoon/Early Evening: Mt Yasur volcano tour.

DAY 9 - WEDNESDAY 09/08/23 No planned events Day 10 - THURSDAY 10/08/23 Depart Tanna for Erromango.

(Yachts will arrive in Dillons Bay Erromango in the late afternoon or evening.)

ERROMANGO DAY 11 - FRIDAY 11/08/23 Morning: Village Tour Afternoon/Evening: Welcome feast DAY 12 - SATURDAY 12/08/23 Ancestral Caves Tours.

Day 13 - SUNDAY 13/08/23 Depart Erromango for Port Vila

EFATE Day 14 - MONDAY 14/08/23 Arrive at Yachting World, Port Vila, on 12th August.

Day 15 - TUESDAY 15/08/23 ‘Welcome To The Big Smoke' event at Yachting World (Food/Drinks/Entertainment)

More Information: downunderrally.com/nc2v-rally

Delivering Lights For Vanuatu!

UPDATE 11 boxes, each containing 12 lights (132 lights in total) are on their way, thanks to the cruising community and Luci Lights Australia.

https://www.van uatu.travel/en/l okol/nawimbamagazine

" Our

seawal l and swi ng are ready!

We can’ t wai t i n Port Vi l a

moori ngs

to see you back thi s season. "

yachtingworld-vanuatu.com

T h e R o c k e t C r u i s i n g Gu i d e s t o Ne w C a l e d o n i a & V a n u a t u h a v e b e e n c i t e d a s t h e b e s t c r u i s i n g g u i d e s i n t h e wo r l d .

B a s e d o n h i g h r e s o l u t i o n s a t e l l i t e a n d a e r i a l p h o t o g r a p h y , t h e c r u i s i n g g u i d e t o Ne w C a l e d o n i a & V a n u a t u g i v e s a p r e c i s e , a c c u r a t e a n d c o l o u r f u l i n f o r ma t i o n o n e v e r y p r a c t i c a l a n c h o r a g e i n Ne w C a l e d o n i a & V a n u a t u .

DOWN UNDER RALLY MEMBERS SAVE 20% WHEN YOU PURCHASE THE ROCKET CRUISING GUIDES! LEARN MORE ABOUT THE ROCKET GUIDES HERE:

DOWNUNDERRALLY.COM/ROCKET-CRUISING-GUIDES

OFFSHORE CRUISING PREPARATION COURSE

Great content in a logical sequence UNLIMITED FREE Greg & Sondra ACCESS FOR 1 April 2023 YEAR FOR JUST $125.00

Testimonials

Excellent!

Lots of useful checklists, ideas and opinions based on experience.

David B June 2023

LEARN MORE: downunderrally.com/offshore-cruising-prep-courses

the best value for money I have ever received!

OVER THE PAST 12 MONTHS, OVER 500 PEOPLE HAVE BECOME DOWN UNDER RALLY MEMBERS. At only $125.00 for the first year and $99.00 per year to renew, Down Under Rally Membership is extremely good value for money. It is very easy for members to save much more than the membership fee thanks to the various discounts and offer our rally partners provide.

SOME OF OUR MEMBERS HAVE GONE AS FAR AS TO SAY THAT DOWN UNDER RALLY MEMBERSHIP REPRESENTS THE BEST VALUE FOR MONEY THEY HAVE EVER RECEIVED! In addition, becoming a member will give you access to our Offshore Cruising Preparation Course for as long as you are a member. The information we share in the course will help you gain the confidence to venture further afield when the time is right. As a Down Under Rally Member, you and a partner member of your choice will be able to watch the course content as often as you like for as long as your membership is current.

LEARN MORE ABOUT MEMBERSHIP HERE https://www.downunderrally.com/member-benefits

Departing Australia By Yacht?

When an Australian registered & tax paid small craft departs Australia for an overseas port, it is considered to have been exported, and an export declaration is required. On departure, the Australian Border Force issues a certificate of clearance that includes the port overseas to which the craft is departing.

In order to obtain a certificate of outward clearance, an export declaration number must be provided. A certificate of clearance will not be issued prior to the provision of a confirmed EDN.

There is no mandatory requirement for a customs broker to undertake the clearance formalities however it is generally recommended.

Learn More Here AUSTRALIAN VESSELS RETURNING TO AUSTRALIA. If your vessel has departed from Australia, you will be required to re-import your vessel when you return to Australia You can clarify this yourself with the Australian Border Force by emailing the Bundaberg Office of the ABF using the following email address. bundaberg@abf.gov.au.

If the vessel was tax paid when it left Australia, you should not have to pay import duty or GST again; however, only the ABF can confirm this.

If the ABF confirms this is the case, they will likely inform you that you will need to complete some paperwork on arrival to re-import the vessel and that they strongly recommend you employ a customs agent to assist with the completion and lodgement of the associated paperwork.

The Down Under Rally has a long-standing relationship with DAZMAC, who are customs brokers. The Down Under Rally recommends contacting DAZMAC to get a quote from them to act as your agent should you be required to import or re-import a vessel.

You can make an obligation-free enquiry with Dazmac via the following page of the Down Under Rally website: www.downunderrally.com/agents.

Discounts for Down Under Rally Members.

BOATERS WORLD IS AN ONLINE DIRECT-TO-CONSUMER MARINE PARTS SUPPLIER Boaters World stocks a wide range of genuine and aftermarket parts such as service kits, oil filters, fuel filters, air filters, impellers, seawater pumps, spark plugs, drive belts, anodes, starter motors, alternators, heat exchangers, propellers and much more.

As a stockist of Volvo Penta, SPX Johnson, Sherwood and Racor filters, and NGK Sparkplugs, you can be sure to find the parts to satisfy your needs as a cruiser.

In addition to these genuine parts, we offer a large range of aftermarket brands such as Martyr anodes, Fleetguard filters, Sierra marine parts, Albin seawater pumps and impellers, Solas propellers, and many more

These premium quality aftermarket parts will fill the more price-sensitive cruisers with confidence as they sail off into the sunset.

DOWN UNDER RALLY MEMBERS RECEIVE A 10% DISCOUNT* ON PURCHASES MADE VIA THE BOATERS WORLD ONLINE STORE. *Discount code is to be applied at the checkout. The discount code is available exclusively to Down Under Rally Members via the members portal.

LEARN MORE HERE: www.downunderrally.com/repairs

If you've visited the Bundaberg Port Marina over the last 20 years, then you have probably met the lovely lady featured in the image above.

Samantha (most of us know her as Sam or Sammy) has decided on a change of pace and some new adventures.

We wish you well Sammy, and thanks for making the impossible possible for the Down Under Rally on many occasions. We will miss you!

https://www.do wnunderrally.co m/aabboating

https://www.do wnunderrally.co m/aabboating

https://www.do wnunderrally.co m/aabboating

https://www.do wnunderrally.co m/aabboating

www.downunderrally.com/aabboati ng

CRUISE IN COMPANY LEARN MORE

Submit Your Expression of Interest for 2024 Now LEARN MORE

Departs New Caledonia in August LEARN MORE

Departs Fiji in August

CRUISE IN COMPANY LEARN MORE

Departs Fiji in September LEARN MORE

Arrive In Australia Between September & November Sailing with The Down Under Rally provides our rally particpants with access to the knowledge and the relationships we have gained over many years of crusing in the SW Pacific & Australia.

In addition our rally participants have the opportunity to visit destinations that may otherwise not be an option.

And we have plenty of fun in the process!

Congratulations

Circumnavigation of Australia

On the 30th May 2023, Chris & Jo of Sailing No Regrets arrived in Manly, Queensland, having completed a circumnavigation of Australia aboard their Seawind Catamaran.

Sailing No Regrets 84 videos

Chris & Jo took 26 months to complete their lap and sailed 11,400nm.

They have documented their adventures on their Sailing No Regrets YouTube Channel and, in the process, created a very useful resource for those who are planning to follow in their wake!

Join us as we sail around Australia, exploring remote coastlines and locations this great country has to offer.

DOWN UNDER RALLY MEMBERS OFFER $400 OFF THE RETAIL PRICE OF NEW RAINMAN WATERMAKER SYSTEMS. MORE INFO AT: www.downunderrally.com/watermakers

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Part 1 of 3

Cruising New Zealand's Fiordland A voyage forty years in the making, and complicated by the impact of COVID19, sailor Rob Latimer sails his yacht Chimere in the wake of Captain Cook, leading us on a journey through New Zealand’s rugged and remote Fiordland.

GETTING THERE - CROSSING THE TASMAN Sailing to New Zealand, had always been a lifetime dream of mine. Well, almost a lifetime. Because for at least fifty of my sixty-plus years, the desire to voyage from Melbourne to New Zealand had existed. Not that it was originally my idea. Not completely. It first started with my sea-loving Kiwi father, and older brother, and somehow it imbued itself into my DNA way back in my formative, teen years in the 1970s.

So here I was in January 2020, setting out for what I thought would be a 4-month trans-Tasman jaunt. In the words of Bilbo Baggins, (of Lord of the Rings fame) a simple case of …“there and back again”.

Little did I know, that within three short months, New Zealand, Australia and the world, would be plunged into a global pandemic, from which none of us could escape; least of all those at sea. In the end, four months turned into eighteen months, comprising lockdowns, red tape, hotel quarantine, Customs considerations, bureaucratic farce, and suspicion.

Then, like a classic, “Would you believe…?” moment from an episode of Get Smart, our arrival back in Australia had us “surrounded” by … “six-armed Border Force agents, two fully clad quarantine officials, one sniffer dog and a circling helicopter”. And whilst Siegrfried was usually right when he answered … “I find that very hard to believe Max” … in this case he’d have been wrong. There really was!

Cruising New Zealand - Fiordland

Part 1 of 3

Back to the voyage, and chief amongst my desires, after finally getting to New Zealand, was exploring Fiordland. To sail into majestic Milford Sound, gaze up at the towering mountaintops, feel spray from the waterfalls and travel in the wake of every yachties hero, Captain Cook, albeit 250 years after the event. To think that Cook charted both the North and the South islands in just under 12 months … truly remarkable.

Unlike Captain Cook, of course, I had all the modern gadgets and comforts befitting our modern times … from satellite communications and weather forecasting to chart plotters and, well, charts, largely based on the ones he originally created ... it still amazes me.

Before cruising through Fiordland, however, there was first the task of getting there!? In this regard, at least for the first step of crossing the Tasman, I channel the words of my late father (survivor of many near-misses) in saying …“Lucky Latimer strikes again”. A quick glance at our chart plotter’s outward-bound snail trail confirms this, showing virtually a straight line from Bass Strait to Cook Strait around 1,400 nautical miles, which we covered in ten days with the help of a steady norwester coming in off the stern quarter.

Cruising New Zealand - Fiordland Our at-sea routine crossing the Tasman was pretty simple. In the morning, the sun would rise on the bow. And in the evening, it would go to bed off the stern.

Accompanied, it must be said, by “Happy Hour”, comprising cheese and nibbles … and story time.

With six souls aboard, three of whom I had found online (and who’d travelled interstate to join us), there was always the potential for diminishing harmony with each passing day. But happily, everyone did their bit to ensure it was a fun time.

COMPLETING THE OFFICIAL STUFF As if to make up for the easy crossing, winds gusting up to 50 knots on arrival had us flying little more than a hankie as we entered Queen Charlotte Sound. This presented us with a dilemma, given the lateness of the hour. Should we proceed directly to the Picton wharf in such conditions in order to clear customs, or should we hold off until morning?

Part 1 of 3

Cruising New Zealand - Fiordland

Part 1 of 3

In the end, we settled on the latter option, choosing to shelter overnight in nearby Resolution Bay.

But as expected the authorities weren’t happy, as I recorded in my daily “Ships Log” at the time…

Tues, 4 Feb 2020, Resolution Bay, Marlborough Sounds (Chimere Ships Log)

"A massive feeling of relief and satisfaction overcame us all following the dropping of the anchor in this wonderfully sheltered bay.

Amidst the mayhem, we received a call from NZ Customs on John’s phone inquiring about our plans to drop anchor before proceeding directly to the Picton wharf for clearance. Something which they obviously had issues with.

From our perspective, we wanted to avoid a night-time arrival in (unfamiliar) Picton, through the narrow Sounds, with winds gusting 40-50 knots.

I essentially presented it as a “risk and safety” issue, which met with general acceptance on the other end of the phone, the conversation being between John and the official, because I was on the helm, and after all, kiwi-John speaks the local dialect.

As a compromise, we will be up at 5:30 am tomorrow and away by 6:00 am, with a hope of reaching Picton by 8:30 am for Customs and Quarantine clearance."

Cruising New Zealand - Fiordland The official stuff went off without a hitch.

As a bonus, very little needed to be handed over to Quarantine as a result of us eating or cooking every last bit of fresh food onboard before tying up at the Picton wharf.

We were also able to satisfactorily prove Chimere’s clean hull credentials – a condition of entry – by means of photographs and recent slipping receipts.

With the first leg of the voyage complete, the next leg started soon enough, with the departure of the old crew and the arrival of the new.

It was now onto Lyttleton Harbour, then Akaroa, mid-way down the east coast and just a short drive from the South Island’s largest city, Christchurch.

This would give us a chance to restock the pantry and prepare for the following leg south to the town of Bluff (near Invercargill), Stewart Island and Foveaux Strait; gateway to Fiordland.

Part 1 of 3

Cruising New Zealand - Fiordland

Part 1 of 3

SOUTH TO BLUFF Out to sea again and the summer weather remained kind as the East Coast of the South Island slipped by off our starboard beam. Progress was steady at 7-8 knots, our objective closer by the hour, with the wind largely from behind and the seas calm.

But all that was about to change. From the latest weather forecast and the building cloud mass to the south, it was clear our good run was about to end.

In less than a day, with the arrival of a ‘brisk’ southwest change, it would be onthe-nose-sailing, unfortunately arriving before we’d had a chance to either reach Stewart Island or round the bottom corner into Bluff. Our sailing strategy now went from racing to beat the change to finding a suitable anchorage to sit out the gale. Because, as a wise person once said … “gentlemen don’t beat too windward,” .. or words to that effect. The log from the time sums it up …

Friday 21 February 2020, Tautuku Peninsular – North Side (Chimere Ships Log)

We were doing around 8 knots as Dunedin slipped by on our starboard side, our eyes set on reaching Stewart Island, or possibly Bluff. Our hope was to get there before the arrival of tomorrow’s big blow.

Prudence dictated the downloading of another weather forecast, on the SatPhone, in the early evening and after some calculations of distance, expected speed and weather-frontarrival-times, I concluded two things: 1. We were NOT likely to reach Stewart Island or Bluff before the arrival of the weather front.

2. If we travelled further than Tautuku Peninsular, 75 miles south of Dunedin’s Cape Saunders, then we would have no suitable anchorage in which to shelter when the big blow hit, leaving us in exposed waters meeting the gale head on.

It is not that we weren’t up to beating to windward and bashing into rising seas, when called upon to do so. But given the choice, of comfort, verses discomfort, we were starting to err on the side of COMFORT, and with a few days still up our sleeves we decided to retreat early, to rest at anchor, in order to fight another day.

Cruising New Zealand - Fiordland

Part 1 of 3

So, the decision was made. We would aim for Tautuku Peninsular, where the Cruising Guide suggested we could find shelter. First, from the nor-easter that was currently blowing us south, then from the south west gale when it arrived mid-morning.

The dilemma we faced, however, was that at our current speed we would likely end up 30 miles south of Tautuku by morning.

To safely drop anchor in daylight, in the only viable bolt hole on this section of the coast, would require us to drastically reduce speed; more than halving it, to 3-4 knots.

To slow down, we started by completely stowing the double-reefed main – a difficult enough task, at night, with a following sea. Still, we were doing 6-7 knots. This was followed by a progressive reduction in the size of the jib till it was little more than the size of a table cloth. Our speed dropped, but only to 5-6 knots; increasing to 7 knots as each wave lifted our stern and threw us forward.

It was a strange sensation, trying to reduce the speed of the boat, when every instinct, to that point, had naturally been about going faster. In the end we decided to head further out to sea, thereby increasing the distance covered, with the plan being to curve back to the coast at Tautuku Peninsular, where our arrival would coincide with sun rise.

Cruising New Zealand - Fiordland

Part 1 of 3

A week earlier, thinking it would be good to have some extra hands onboard for the leg south, I was curiously flicking through the many-and-varied sailor profiles on a crew finder website. At the time, we were anchored in a blissfully calm corner of Akaroa Harbour and as John made dinner-noises in the galley, I relayed features of each potential new candidate which went something like...

“How ‘bout this one John? … this person is …

Ready Now – Speaks English, Swedish and French – Eager to Learn – Non-Smoker – Single – Height 5’ 6’’ – Searching for Soulmate/Partner – Open Minded – Can Follow Orders – No Facial Piercings – Nationality, Swedish – Age, 29 …” At this point, John chimed in … “What website are you on bro?” and followed up with, “Show me the picture”.

Returning to the galley with a big smile on his face, John’s sage advice was clear … “keep searching, bro”.

So it was that we located steady and dependable Carsten, who just happened to be enjoying an extended, flexible New Zealand holiday; and was actually a sailor.

But don’t think we didn’t check him out over the phone first, where there was ample opportunity to fire some probing questions at him, such as …

“Do you prefer your beer warm or cold?” … Answer: COLD … and “Do you prefer your peanut butter crunchy or smooth?” … Answer: CRUNCHY. Two days later, Carsten was unpacking his bag on his allotted bunk aboard Chimere, his answer to the “Vegemite question” almost forgotten.

Now, after three days at sea together, enjoying each other’s company and sharing many stories, an amusing thing happened at the change of watch around 3:30 am. As I climbed the companionway and stepped into the cockpit, Carsten, who had been on watch from around midnight, inquired …

“Wollen wir die Fock jetzt auf die andere Seite nehmen?”

We were both a bit blurry-brained, and wanting to hear the question properly, I inquired politely … “What’s that?” “…oh, I am speaking German, sorry … will we take the jib to the other side?”

On another occasion, Carsten inquired … “what are Morips?”

Not quite understanding, I replied, “What do you mean, the Morips?” “You know when you say … give it Morips” “Oh, more revs. The engine revs. The RPM. Speed of the engine, the accelerator …”

I think by now, the meaning had been conveyed, but in true irreverent Aussie-Kiwi style, from that moment on, “Morips” became part of our daily lexicon?!

Cruising New Zealand - Fiordland

Part 1 of 3

In the end, our shelter-seeking plan worked a treat. After closing the coast at daybreak, we pottered south, finally dropping anchor behind Rainbow Isles, which, whilst not mentioned in the Cruising Guide, gave a good level of protection from the northeast wind and swell. When the expected SW change finally hit, we could easily reposition a few miles down the coast where it would be less exposed. Soon after dropping anchor, we were greeted by two large albatrosses, which paddled around our stern in the hope of a feed.

This came as a bit of a surprise because you expect seagulls and ducks to come scavenging … but these things were enormous. Just beautiful creatures, their wings all folded up and their regal heads and massive beaks giving them a majestic air, despite their scavenging intent. Like seagulls on steroids.

As it turned out, the bird’s instincts were rewarded, with John catching the very first fish of the voyage, hooking a fearsome-looking thing of decent size while we passed across a small bay in the early dawn.

Cruising New Zealand - Fiordland

Part 1 of 3

It was around this time that my Bass Strait sailing experience really started to come into its own.

Specifically, the need to grab favourable “weather windows”, between passing systems, in order to hop from place to place in reasonable comfort.

Thankful for our snug anchorage, for now we were just happy to sit out the howling souwest change which blew through at over 40 knots, having us dangling on the anchor-chain like a kite on a string.

Soon enough though, we were analysing the next weather forecast, in order to plan our exit strategy.

As it turned out, we didn’t have long to wait, with a brief period of ‘relative calm’ expected to materialise early the next morning; still on the nose, but as good as it was going to get, at least for the next few days.

Getting away early the next morning, we challenged the old adage about … “gentlemen not sailing to windward” – or maybe we simply aren’t gentlemen – by tacking almost all the way to Bluff.

For all the usual reasons, we had planned to arrive at Bluff with daylight to spare. Particularly since the approach required skirting rocky outcrops and entering up a curvy channel before then finding a suitable Chimere-sized spot on a wharf somewhere. In the end, it was 10:00 pm by the time we tied up, with the long summer twilight definitely gone. That said, it could have been even more challenging if the tide hadn’t been going our way and the harbour lights weren’t as bright as they were.

Cruising New Zealand - Fiordland

Part 1 of 3

Two-thirds the way down the coast, once the decision was made to head for the (closer) harbour town of Bluff, (instead of Stewart Island) I called ahead to Bluff Harbour Radio on VHF Channel 16 to inquire about the availability of a berth. They received my call and suggested I contact Bluff Fishermen’s Radio on VHF Channel 61. This I did, and who should come on the airwaves but a woman by the name of Mary.

Now, I’d heard about Mary from a fellow sailor who’d explained … “Mary … she knows everyone down in the Bluff area. She was so helpful when we sailed down that way a year ago. We were on the radio to her regularly. She’s an institution.”

So, this was the very same Mary I was talking with, the one I’d heard so much about.I inquired …

“Is there any chance of a berth? We are a 53-foot yacht, 3 people onboard, and we expect to be arriving in Bluff around 8:00 pm – before dark – OVER.” Mary’s reply came straight back … “Leave it with me. There are a couple of options. I’ll get back to you. Do you have a pen handy … this is my phone number. If you can call me after the radio schedule and weather report I’m going to do shortly, I’ll have more details for you, OVER.” “Roger that, Mary. Many thanks. Will do. Chimere OUT,” … I responded, just amazed at how cheerful, efficient, and helpful this person was to me, a total stranger announcing my arrival in a few hours' time; my friend was right.

We then listened to Mary give the 5:30 pm national weather situation report, with a particular focus on this region, followed by scheduled cheerios and call-ups to a dozen or more yachts and other vessels spread across Stewart Island and Fiordland. Each reporting their current position, revised POBs (after all, it might have changed from last night’s scheduled call-up), intentions and other necessary information.

My conversation with Mary a short time later led to a new contact, Chris,… a man in authority connected to the Stewart Island ferry, who helpfully confirmed … “yeah mate, no worries, there’s room at the ferry wharf, just behind the ferry and astern of a fishing boat called Mana … you can stay there for a few days” As it turned out, a bit after 8:00 pm, we were still miles from the port, tacking our way across Toetoes Bay into ever-stronger winds and mounting seas, making sure to keep well clear of the shallow waters close by Dog Island. With the sun sinking faster in the west and hoping to keep Mary up-to-date on our movements, I called again … “Hello Mary, we are taking longer than expected.

We will probably be in a bit after 9:00 pm now”. “No problems. Give me a call as you make your approach, and I’ll come down and help you with the lines”, responded Mary, in her now familiar cheerful, no-nonsense way.

Cruising New Zealand - Fiordland

Part 1 of 3

So it was that around 10:00 pm, we finally tied up, with Mary waving a torch to show us where to go and then looping our lines over the bollards on the dark, cold wharf. “Make sure you put a loop in it before you throw it at me”, she said, standing high up on the dock. With the engine off and the immediate tasks complete, before heading off into the darkness, Mary called out ... “So, you’re all set for the night. I saw you coming up the channel. I can see you from my home. Make yourself comfortable, and I’ll pop back down in the morning (that’s Sunday) to check on you and see if you have any problems or questions. See you then, bye”.

So, here we were, almost at the bottom of New Zealand; Stewart Island to the south of us and Fiordland just a short distance off to the west. It was now time to relax briefly, savour the moment and enjoy the experience.

Once again, the value of modern weather forecasting and communications came into its own.

Particularly considering the weather patterns in these parts are so often fast-changing and localized, shaped in large part by the topography. Naturally, we were always prepared for the worst, but avoiding it in the first place was our chosen option, and the colourful weather maps, downloaded with regularity, certainly helped us to do just that.

As we occupied ourselves for a few days, exploring the creeks and harbours of Stewart Island till the arrival of the new crew, one day’s weather stood out. The downloaded GRIB file showed all colours of the rainbow, plus black and even white.

While the west coast, just 50 miles away, was predicted to receive northerly winds gusting 60 knots and more, here in Foveaux Strait, the outlook was for something in the order of 5-15 knots.

Cruising New Zealand - Fiordland

Part 1 of 3

Fiordland Beckons After ten days on board, it was now time to wave goodbye to our new-best friend Carsten and, at the same time welcome the new crew from Australia … my wife Linda and two sons, Matt and James.

Fiordland beckoned as the next and most exciting stage was about to commence.

Meanwhile, the weather remained “variable”. Which translates into Storm Force winds on the West Coast, and Moderate Breezes south of Bluff and along the north coast of Stewart Island. So instead of heading straightaway to Fiordland, it was decided to ease into things a bit by making our way south to Stewart Island; maintaining our desire for comfort over discomfort.

This turned out to be a welcomed diversion, because whilst we hadn’t planned on spending much, if any, time at Stewart Island, it turned out to be a real gem. Offering so many places to explore, with an abundance of safe anchorages, remote wilderness and so many fish even we were able to catch some.

After crossing the Foveaux Strait, Stewart Island’s main (and only) town of Oban was our first port of call. An overnight stay and it was then further south down the east coast, exploring as we went, but all the while filling in time till the next big break in the weather.

Cruising New Zealand - Fiordland

Part 1 of 3

Finally, Setting Course for Fiordland!

It was always going to be a close-run thing. Sailing from Port William on the north coast of Stewart Island to Preservation Inlet, the southern gateway to Fiordland. Our goal was to cover around 80 miles in daylight hours as the storm of recent days receded. Our overnight anchorage had been snug and secure, with only the wind in the rigging and the sound of passing showers on the deck to remind us that we were anchored in a rather remote corner of the world.

By 7 am, the wind was down to only 20-30 knots at the western entrance to Foveaux Strait; but was predicted to diminish throughout the day. And if everything went to plan, we would not have to tack, with the south-west wind predicted to be sufficiently off-the-bow to enable us to hold a direct course – to Windsor Point (next to Puysegur Point) at the SW corner of the South Island.

Out of necessity, we needed to get away early, and in retrospect, we should have got away in the dark, at around 5 or 6 o’clock, but in fact, it was closer to 7:30 am that we headed out of the bay, with the morning-light already giving us a day-time view of our surroundings.

Along the north coast of Stewart Island, things were flat calm – as they say in the thrillers, TOO calm with the light but steady winds off the port beam punctuated by occasional “bullets” that came down from Mount Anglem (the 1000 metre hill – or mountain in Australia) on the north-side of the island, hitting us on the bow and causing us to ease the sheets for a time, to ensure we weren’t overpowered.

The day started with minimal sail set. A double reefed main, the small staysail, and a very small amount of jib … largely in anticipation of the conditions to come. Particularly once we had cleared the northern tip of Stewart Island and felt the full force of the southwest conditions.

Cruising New Zealand - Fiordland

Part 1 of 3

Late afternoon yesterday, I notified Mary at Bluff Fisherman’s Radio of our location and intentions.

Now, as we made our way out of the bay in the morning chill, I called again...

“Bluff Fisherman’s Radio, this is Chimere, do you copy?”, the reply was fast in coming …

“Chimere, good morning, Bluff Fisherman’s Radio, roger roger, good to hear from you, OVER”.

“Bluff Fisherman’s Radio, Chimere, we are leaving Port William now, headed for Preservation Inlet, 5 POB, hope to reach there by 7 or 8 this evening: over”.

“Roger that, Chimere, 5 POB, headed for Preservation Inlet. Still a bit windy out there as you would have heard in the report, I’ll ask around some of the fishermen out there on conditions and feed it back to you as you go along if I can, good as gold: OVER”, “Many thanks, Mary. Be good to get some current observations. We’ll keep you informed along the way and when we arrive. Chimere OUT”.

For now, the task before us was to get from point A to point B, as quick, and as painlessly, as possible.

As predicted, the wind diminished throughout the day, and whilst the remnant SW swells of 4-6 metres, were not a problem, it was the 1-2 metre counter northeast swell, plus the irregular “chop” thrown in for good measure, leading to a painfully confused sea, that tested even the most seasoned stomachs, not to mention patience.

On the plus side … the sun was shining; the sea was as blue as blue can be … and the albatrosses were even greater in number and soared even closer to the boat. Like the aerial equivalent of dolphins, appearing just to have fun, cruising and banking on the breeze, often just appearing to tip their wings and bellies on the crest of the waves as they passed across our stern and bow.

Cruising New Zealand - Fiordland

Part 1 of 3

Around 7:30pm I announced to Linda … my well-strapped-in-and-rugged-up cockpit companion for the day … “you know, we’ve been sailing 12 hours now”. Given the confused sea conditions, I’d opted to hand steer for most of the day, largely to relieve stress on the autohelm. Linda helped keep my strength up by handing me treats and drinks at regular intervals and at the same time did a very good job of “debris spotting”, as we made our way up and down over the waves.

Whilst our steel hull could withstand a direct hit from most solid objects … the recent torrential rains that had devastated Fiordland, had washed tons of logs and miscellaneous rubbish out to sea. Some of which Linda spotted, including a wooden park bench … just floating by … its solid legs occasionally bobbing above the waves.

Fortunately, we were fast closing-in on our intended destination. But the lack of daylight on arrival, was looming as our biggest concern as we made progress largely under motor, the wind having died away, leaving a sloppy, uncomfortable sea in its wake.

The sun seemed to be speeding up as it inched ever-closer to the horizon off to port, our course now curving us up the coast. Nearing the coast, the narrow entrance to Otago’s Retreat came into view on the far side of Puysegur Point. “Is that where we are going in?”, inquired Linda. A mix of concern and panic in her voice, as she suddenly observed the breaking white rollers hitting the rocks to our right … and left!

In my best “reassurance voice”, I repeated what I could remember from the Cruising Guide, “The entrance is behind the breaking sea, it opens up to an entrance, close to this Coal Island in front of us. We keep close to Coal Island, where it’s deeper, and then we’ll see the calm fiord behind”

Cruising New Zealand - Fiordland

Part 1 of 3

The sails were now down, and it was time to make the final approach. Sure enough, the large southwest rollers breaking like a big day at Bells Beach, maybe a quarter of a mile to our right, were progressively diminishing in strength as we approached Coal Island. And whilst the breaking sea ahead of us, on the sheer rocky face of the island, was daunting, our eventual curve to starboard revealed the narrow entrance further on as a flat, distinct line, beyond which lay our mercifully calm anchorage for the night.

Holding our course through the centre of the opening, after maybe half a mile, we were now officially inside Fiordland. The sea was … to quote Kiwi-John ... “still-as bro” … with the last of the setting sun visible on the high peaks of the mountain range – one of the dozens of mountain ranges in these parts – in the distance ahead of us.

“The anchorage is to our left, in about 3-4 metres, with a float hanging in a tree”, called James, reading from the Fiordland Cruising Guide. The light was fading, and pretty soon, we were at anchor. The stillness of the surroundings, dare I say, “serenity”, the multi-green forest to the water’s edge and the blue-purple-coloured mountains far off, it was almost too much to take in all at once.

It certainly stood in stark contrast to much of the previous 13-14 hours of motion. The solid roar of the breaking seas at the entrance, a short distance off our stern, was a constant reminder of what we had left behind.

For now, it was time to tidy up, prepare dinner, enjoy a good glass of red and collapse into bed.

There would be plenty of time over the next 10 days to soak in the Fiordland “vibe”.

Cruising New Zealand - Fiordland About the Author Rob Latimer is a cruising sailor and co-founder of the Australian aid group Medical Sailing Ministries Inc. www.msm.org.au, plus the Vanuatu oral health funding-support group Tooth Buddies www.toothbuddies.com.au Since 2009, Rob, along with dozens of enthusiastic volunteers, has used his yacht, Chimere, to transport health teams around the remote islands of Vanuatu.

More recently, he has fulfilled a life-long dream to sail around New Zealand.

About the Boat After 16 years and a recent change in his circumstances, Rob has reluctantly put Chimere on the market.

Well-equipped for remote voyaging, Chimere has plenty of adventures left in her yet, as you can discover HERE: https://yachthub.com/list/yachts-for-sale/used/sailmonohulls/jean-vignes-55-jean-vignes-55-cutter/278141

To view Chimere in action on her return to Australia from New Zealand in winter 2021, check out the video HERE.

“The original Rocna is a superb anchor and now well proven with great adoption – the question for me was always could we improve on it?”

Peter Smith, lifetime sailor, boatbuilder, and designer of the Rocna Anchors range

The Rocna Mk II is a refinement of the original Rocna design, which has built up a reputation for reliable, quick setting and secure holding power over years of real-world experience and feedback from thousands of boaters. Smith has also used patented technology shared with the Vulcan anchor, such as the “I+V™” shank, which helps make the Rocna Mk II the toughest of all Rocna anchors.

The innovative anchor features an all-new patented “roll-foil™” a sculpted variation of the original roll-bar, which features a series of uniquely shaped profiles designed to further assist the anchor’s critical self-righting behavior and help during setting for deeper penetration and additional holding power. The fluke also has had a major overhaul which optimises the original Rocna pattern for greater surface area and improved weight distribution.

LEARN MORE HERE

https://www.downunde rrally.com/aabboating

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trevor@marinerboating.com.au

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Niue Yacht Club Announcement The Niue Yacht Club has a new web page www.niueisland.com/niue-yacht-club The new website includes detailed information on arrival procedures and rules for visiting yachts, plus a new online mooring booking system, which can be paid for in advance.

There are also links to forms for Customs, Biosecurity and Health that can be downloaded and completed ready for arrival.

For our readers who are not familiar with the Niue Yacht Club, here is a brief history...

Niue Yacht Club is known as the “Biggest Little Yacht Club in the World - where no one owns a yacht or knows how to sail!”

The club dates back to the early 1970s when there was increasing demand from the international sailing community for Niue to be included as a stopover as part of their circumnavigation. Niue was seen as an ideal stopover during the Coconut Run because of the predominant pattern of trade winds.

But as the largest uplifted coral atoll in the world, mooring in Niue presented a whole raft of issues. The only possible mooring location was on the leeward side of the island where, although there was wharf access, there was also a fragile coral reef ecosystem that needed to be protected. The only solution was to establish a mooring field to provide security for vessels while protecting the coral below, but the Government of Niue did not have the resources, manpower or skills to implement this infrastructure at the time.

Fortunately, a large group of ex-pats recognized the need for the mooring field and inaugurated the Niue Yacht Club (Inc) as a voluntary association. Over the decades since many volunteers worked tirelessly pouring large concrete blocks to form the basis for safe mooring points.

Frequent cyclones over the years often set progress back, and in 2004, Cyclone Hera virtually dislodged or buried the concrete blocks that formed the basis of the field.

Thanks to New Zealand Aid, through their contribution to the Niue Tourism Office and the Niue Government, the Niue Yacht Club received funding, and the mooring field was completed in circa 2010.

Niue Yacht Club’s International standing and reputation prompted the World ARC to include Niue on their circumnavigation route in 2012. This was a significant tribute to the many volunteers who contributed so much to establishing ... “The Biggest Little Yacht Club in the World.”

NOTICE OF SAILING EVENT

AUSTRALIA TO INDONESIA THREE DIVISIONS*

*Yachts who wish to participate under Rally conditions may enter DIV 2 or 3 and advise race officials of their intention to motor.

The Dinah Beach Cruising Yacht Association is thrilled to be running the annual Spice Islands Darwin Ambon Yacht Race in August 2023.

To find out more about the race and the club, head to www.dbcya.com.au/darwin-to-ambon or email secretary@dbcya.com.au

East Coast Marina, Manly Boat Harbour, Brisbane, Australia offer 330 secure water berths, catering for boats up to 18m.

Located less than 10nm to the south of the Brisbane river mouth Manly Boat Harbour is the perfect base for visiting yachts and East Coast Marina has long been a favourite of the international yachting community.

A variety of public transport options that will take you directly to Brisbane City and the Brisbane International Airport are within walking distance of the marina The Manly Village is only a short walk away, offering a grocery store, post office, news agency, chemist, coffee shops, restaurants and more. Markets are on some Saturdays and every Sunday.

EAST COAST MARINA Phone: +61 7 3393 3811 Email: info@eastcoastmarina.com.au Location: Latitude…27º27.6′ S Longitude…153º11.2′E VISIT OUR WEBSITE www.eastcoastmarina.com.au

DOWN UNDER RALLY MEMBERS OFFER. *15% off casual marina berth rates *subject to availability at time of booking and confirmation of current DUR membership.

Crew Wanted Now For An 'Over The Top' Adventure

G`Day, My name is Terrie & I’m chasing experienced crew to join me on an adventure and help sail my well-equipped and well-maintained Fountaine-Pajot Lipari 41 Catamaran from Cairns, Queensland, to Western Australia.

On route, I plan to spend time cruising Far North Queensland, The Northern Territory and the Kimberley. I plan to depart from Cairns as soon as possible and arrive somewhere between Broome and the Montebello Islands in September or October this year.

In 2021 I completed day skipper and competent crew. In 2022 I sailed from Hervey Bay to the Whitsundays and back. This year, I sailed from Hervey Bay to Cairns with a very competent skipper on board.

I love my fishing and a good adventure, and I hope to find like-minded people who have sailing experience to join me. Single people or a couple are welcome to enquire. I am only asking those who join me to make a contribution towards food. I will cover all other costs associated with the voyage (excluding alcohol.)

If you are interested in this great opportunity, please email me. terriepattetson@gmail.com Cheers Terrie. (Down Under Rally Member)

CRUISING THE QUEENSLAND COAST FAVOURITE ANCHORAGES

PLATYPUS BAY, K'GARI

BY GREG LUCK

In ten years of cruising, I had never visited Platypus Bay, K'Gari (Fraser Island). We were always in a rush either up or down the coast. We started stopping at Platypus Bay a few years ago and last year we spent 5 days moving along it from Wathumba Creek to Coongul Creek.

Woralie Creek

It has beautiful white sand beaches and crystal clear water. In winter it has the highest concentration of Humpback whales on the coast.

The whole bay is protected from southeast trades and the gently sloping shore makes for easy wading and swimming.

It fits easily into an itinerary. It is within a day's sail from the Sandy Straits, Bundaberg or Lady Elliot Island.

See more in Cruising the Queensland Coast.

Platypus Bay

Photo: G Luck

Photo: G Luck

Mackay Marina - Project Update Mackay Marina is excited to inform you that construction is well underway on our nib wall.

The nib wall will offer an enhanced level of protection to boat owners and marina users with construction expected to be completed by late July 2023.

The Nib Wall is part of a $10.5m resilience project and will help deliver increased protection for the marina, which is exposed to northerly waves during certain weather conditions.

Please be aware that there are now changed conditions when entering the marina entrance from the outer harbour (plan attached) so please take extra care when entering and departing the harbour.

The construction area is marked with yellow special marks with a port marker on the outside western end of the construction.

All other operations are as normal, including our 24-hour fuel, casual marina berthing, restaurants, shipyard and trades.

Our marina office is contactable on 07 4955 6855 between 8:30am and 4:30pm 7 days, or email: reception@mackaymarina.com

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The car parking area in front of the new marina berths is open and marks the completion of the new marina finger project, which features 20 x 24m Berths with a 45m T- Head.

With more berths than ever before, we look forward to welcoming you at Bundaberg Port Marina!

"The most popular port of entry into Australia, Bundaberg Port Marina has been welcoming visitors from across the globe for decades" Bundaberg Port Marina 15-17 Marina Drive Port Bundaberg QLD 4670 AUSTRALIA P: (+61) 7 4159 5066 E: info@bundabergportmarina.com.au W: bundabergportmarina.com.au

REMEMBER GOOD OLD-FASHIONED SERVICE? That is what you will find at our chandlery, Australian Boating Supplies.

Dave and Helen brought Australian Boating Supplies (ABS) about 15 years ago when it was located at the front of Gold Coast City Marina, part of the Gold Coast Marine Precinct. Since then they expanded to shed F31, and again into shed C17 which is right next to the boom gates and has substantially increased the range of boating and marine products.

Having raised their family in Canberra, they moved to Queensland, purchased the chandlery and Tropical Sunset a Seawind 1160 and boating became a large part of the family's lives.

For many years Dave, Helen, Danielle, Michael and Emma holidayed and sailed between the Gold Coast and far north Queensland on Tropical Sunset. During this time they tried and tested many of the products currently stocked in the shop and can provide advice and knowledge based on their own experience.

The Hutcheson family and the staff at ABS have extensive boating experience and really do enjoy helping you with your chandlery needs.

We look forward to welcoming you IN-STORE Monday to Friday 8 AM – 4:30 PM Saturday 8:30 AM -12:00 PM, OR by phone or online when it suits you

PHONE: 07 5502 8484 AUSTBOATING.COM.AU

C17 Gold Coast City Marina, 76-84 Waterway Drive, Coomera Qld. 4209

DOWN UNDER RALLY MEMBERS RECEIVE GENUINE DISCOUNTS OFF ALL ITEMS IN-STORE, EXCLUDING ITEMS ALREADY ON SALE AND AS SUCH ALREADY DISCOUNTED.

Videos about sailing to and cruising in Australia, Indonesia & the SW Pacific islands, including Fiji, New Caledonia & Vanuatu and more...

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Members Marketplace Down Under Rally Members are invited to list their *unwanted items for sale in AHOY! To list your item or items in the member's marketplace: Email photos/description/price & contact information to admin@downunderrally.com FREE FOR DOWN UNDER RALLY MEMBERS *Items offered must be used equipment / personal items related to sailing & cruising - No boats for sale listings, please. (Tenders ok)

TUFFY TENDER FOR SALE Outboard NOT INCLUDED or any accessories apart from those listed below.

Factory-fitted lifting points Large drop-down beaching wheels.

Buffer pads.

Rod holders.

Bases for Nav lights PRICE REDUCTION NOW ASKING $2000.00 Contact Peter 0429 949 958

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Now available in print

Manly Boat Harbour, Brisbane.

330 secure water berths, catering for boats up to 18m.

www.eastcoastmarina.com.au

For Down Under Rally Member Discounts Visit: www.downunderrallymembers.com/partners

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www.downunderrally.com/marine-first-aid

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It might just save your boat!

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Sail the New Caledonia Lagoon with complete confidence & safety. 220 personally surveyed anchorages, 240 confirmed GPS routes covering all islands plus 1000 high-resolution colour images. GET READY TO GO!

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RYA Sailing Courses | Yachtmaster Training Private Own Boat Training

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Founded in 1970 & still, family-owned & run. Nautical giftware, Navigation Charts, & equipment, Cruising Guides, Brass Bells, Compasses, Sextants and much more.

Discounts on charts and cruising guides for Down Under Rally Members. www.downunderrally.com/charts-flags

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ADVERTISE IN AHOY!

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SOUTHERN QUEENSLAND CRUISING YACHT HAVEN Located ON Brisbane's Moreton Bay, Scarborough Marina provides visiting yachts with easy access to the many anchorages and the islands of Moreton Bay, including Moreton Island and the Tangalooma Wrecks. The City of Brisbane and the Brisbane international airport are only 40mins away, with Public Transport right at our door. The suburb of Scarborough is home to families and retirees who form part of the safe & friendly community. With the convenience of waterfront Cafes, Clubs & Restaurants plus major shopping centres and medical services nearby and our popular weekend farmers & craft markets, Scarborough really is a home away from home!

Recognised by the international cruising community as the preferred destination when visiting the Brisbane Region.

Safe Enclosed Harbour Protected from swell & unaffected by flooding.

Clean, Modern & Well Maintained Facilities Modern Cruisers Lounge with TV and free WIFI Electronic gated Access, with 24 Hour CCTV Monitoring 24 Hour Fuel Wharf Full-Service Boatyard with 35 Tonne Travelift On-Site Chandlery

DISCOUNTS FOR DOWN UNDER RALLY MEMBERS

Tangalooma Anchorage Moreton Island

PH: +61 7 3880 0300

SCARBMARINA.COM.AU info@scarbmarina.com.au

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