On the hard, Noakes Group, Berrys Bay
Wind: SE, F2 slight breeze
Sea state: concrete Swell: nil
Weather: partly cloudy, mild

We have only one week to go before we depart Sydney and the major task for the week has been having Sylph’s bottom cleaned and anti-fouled. Normally I do this work myself, but the world is changing with environmental and occupational health and safety regulations and tightening insurance requirements making it much more difficult for us old yachties to do our own work, especially in large cities like Sydney. Consequently, on Wednesday I delivered Sylph to the Noakes yard where she has been hauled out, cleaned, and now has a fresh coat of anti-fouling paint and new anodes, awaiting her relaunch tomorrow.

On the plus side, while the bank balance will be much lower, my shoulders will be in much better shape for the forthcoming ocean crossing.

This week’s focus, once Sylph is back in the water, will be to store ship and to share a few farewell drinks with old friends.

All is well.

Sylph at Noakes: