Spent an enjoyable Xmas up in Lake Macquarrie, firstly I ventured up in mid December to haul out for a AF strip and replace, Marmong Point was chosen even though it is 80 miles from home base, on the grounds they have a decent hardstand and allow you to work on your vessel. The AF striping was as expected a tough gig and I spent 8 days up, weather at the final painting stage slowed me down. But she has a smooth surface now, and I am rewarded with a faster boat too!
I was going to return back to work for the final week leading up to Xmas, then go back up and bring her home. Covid and delays helped to change plans and I instead toured around the lake. What a great sailing ground. I must have covered 50 Miles exploring with fresh breezes and flat seas. On my eventual return I left Swansea under lumpy nil wind conditions, motoring to Broken bay for a stop over enroute. Off Terrigal there was lightning and this cloud appeared, and shortly after I was battered by 50 knot winds from the South, luckily only for 20 minutes or so!

The crew ready for the bar crossing at Swansea
Cheers Richard