1430 Position: 38 27.9 S 144 33.3 E
Course: South. Speed: 6 knots
Wind: East sou' east, F5 strong breeze
Weather: sunny, mild

I have at long last managed to psych myself up sufficiently to depart Port Phillip. I have had some very nice times with Mark, Monica, Isabella and Archer, I have taken care of some administrative matters and the weather pattern looks promising for the next couple of days.

The breeze this morning was still in the south-east so, with the dinghy secured on deck and everything secured below, we weighed anchor and started the day with a bracing bash to windward. Then, a few hours later, having made the entrance to the West Channel, we were able to ease sheets and broad reach in between the shallow sand bars on either side. The West Channel is actually quite wide for a small boat and is well marked but, with the sun high overhead in the cloudless sky, it was reassuring to be able to see the shallows standing out light green against the dark green of the deeper water. A little after midday we cleared Port Phillip Heads and now we are close reaching with a reef in the main and the jib partially furled to a fresh breeze from the east sou' east. The sun is shining, the sky is blue, and Sylph is throwing clouds of spray over her decks as she shoulders through the short swell.

Thank you Mark and Monica for your hospitality.

Next stop, Tasmania.

All is well.