8 April 2005: Breakwater Marina, Townsville

The cruising season is underway here in Breakwater marina. New yachts are arriving daily, using Townsville as a base to prepare and stock-up before cruising the maze of reefs and islands to our north and south. The hardstand is becoming busy too as owners undertake antifouling and hull repairs in readiness for this year's cruise. There is an air of anticipation of great weather and great sailing in the months ahead. Illywhacker and her crew are content to watch these comings and goings while we slowly make our own plans to cruise the outer reef and maybe sail north later in the season. Friends and family have heard us speak so highly of this fabulous place we are expecting quite a few visitors this year. Time to make the forward cabin habitable - but let'snot rush things, we'll have a cuppa first. Life can be tough in paradise! Lyndall is doing quite well currently, helped by the abundance of fresh tropical fruit and vegetables, walks and a daily swim. Some very kind person gave her an electric folding bike for her birthday recently so her mobility is much improved - in fact he has to run alongside to keep up with her!