Neil and Tamara are embarking on a journey north from Sydney along the east coast of Australia to a turnaround destination of Lizard Island in far north Queensland. Our yacht Billabong is a Bavaria 44 launched in July 2004. She was named "Billabong" as our "cool resting place" which is often said about the aboriginal billabongs. The aboriginal word Billabong is translated as "dead river" which describes the beautiful water holes in the rivers of Australia when they are not flowing. Billabong has been prepared over the past 6 years for this adventure. There have been many additions to make the sailing and the living aboard more comfortable. The battery bank has been increased along with a larger alternator and 3 step regulator to provide more efficient charging of the batterries. 2 x 125 watt solar panels were installed on the targa bar to assist with energy management. Other additions include chart plotter at the helm, VHF command mic at the helm, forward looking sonar, portable freezer, salt water intake at the galley to assist in conserving freshwater supplies, folding propeller, assymetrical spinnaker, furling no 3 headsail, 3rd reef in mainsail, external 3G antenae for internet and mobile coverage, digital tv antenae, rigid inflatable dinghy.
Billabong's home port is Broken Bay where she is berthed at Royal Prince Alfred Yacht Club - Newport.
The RPAYC has organised the Coral Coast Rendevouz Cruise and has approximatley 22 yachts will be joining the cruise at various dates. It was opportune for us to join the rendevouz cruise and fullfil our sailing ambitions of cruising the Great Barrier Reef
In preparation for the cruise the RPAYC has organised a number of seminars on important cruising topics such as provisioning, health care, diesel maintenance, seamanship and communication. These have been great seminars to attend and we picked up many tips from the presenters and others attending the seminar which will assist us on our journey. There is always a lot of preparation before undertaking a trip such as this as we will be away for approx 6 months. Big decisions on what is a must have, what is important and what is nice to have on the trip are constantly being made. We think we have it about right now after including a foldable bicycle.
The plan is to take the yacht to Port Stephens on the 12th May where we will complete the final food preparations. We are keen to join the other cruisers by departing around the 22nd May weather permitting.
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