31 July 2005 Breakwater Marina, Townsville

Illywhacker is getting back into cruising mode. We had a few days at Magnetic Island to test her systems and ourselves. Our youngest, Matthew and his new bride Julie were with us as we sorted through the minor repairs that always result from long periods of inactivity. A seized clutch on the anchor winch and a scratchy VHF were the major glitches, both due to the ravages of salt air, frequently found around boats. Our plan is to head north slowly and test the idea of finding the nearest hospital each month for Lyndall's treatment. Matthew has re-established this web diary to allow me to update it from remote anchorages or at sea, using winlink email via our HF radio. The weather is great so by mid August, we should be underway - we'll keep you posted!