New Year in Sydney

Well, we made it to Sydney, though at one or two stages thought we wouldn't get here in time. Found a berth in the Cruising Assoc. of Australia 'marina'. They organise the annual Sydney to Hobart yacht race which leaves on Boxing Day, so there are quite a few empty places until the boats return. It is right in the centre of the city. Last night, with B, B, and B's daughter H on board we headed out to the next bay round where we were right next to the Opera House and Bridge. It was choc a bloc with boats - anchoring areas being very rigidly marked and patrolled but we found ourselves a good spot. Had a fantastic view while we ate a nice dinner. Thousands of people all around the water's edge which is mostly park, and an equally crowded area on the other side of the harbour.

At 9pm there was a shortish but impressive firework display, with more every hour, then at 30 and 15 mins to midnight. Then the big show. Not only over the bridge, but also from the top of high rise buildings in the city, and other points in the harbour. Also lazers and projected pictures, and a parade of illuminated boats. Quite fantastic, and as there was very little wind and a nearly clear sky weather conditions were much better than expected. Definitely lived up to expectations. Wending our way through the boats, many of which were also on the move, was quite a task, but we returned safely to our berth. Very ready for some sleep.

To go back a bit, I think I mentioned that our dinghy didn't arrive in time in Mooloolaba. B and B said they would collect it, put it on their roof rack and bring it to us. But it then went missing and couldn't be found anywhere. In spite of a tracking number. Eventually the transport company said that they would return it to Sydney (at no extra charge ha ha, I should think not), so B and B started driving southwards. Their phone call, and ours, and the dinghy suppliers, were to no avail, it had just disappeared. We were worried as the supplier said that they were not insured for loss en route. Then suddenly it was found, and yesterday B and B went to pick it up in Sydney, only to be told that it was on its way to Brisbane! Luckily they saw it in the depot, and so took it, but with no check of their identity - they said they could have walked off with anything!

Then we found out that all the roads in this area were to be closed at 3pm - until 3am on 1st. So it was a rush for them to get here in time, but they did thank goodness, and a smart new yellow-and-white dinghy is safely tied on deck. It had been a long day for all of us. We started off well from Mooloolaba with current and wind in our favour but then the wind dropped, and then swung onto our nose. So lots of motoring, 4 nights out, and pouring rain most of the time. Plus quite rough seas. Not the nicest trip ever. We arrived at the entrance to Sydney Harbour at 2am on 31st so not much sleep that night. But it is always exciting sailing into a big city port with all the ships (and cruise ships) and ferries rushing around; and this harbour is deep and easy.

Our position is 33 52.430 S and 151 13.932 E (Rushcutters Bay) No fish, but reel etc lost overboard, and unsuccessful MOB drill.