Southern Breeze

Things are happening in the Southern Region. First up, we had a successful social meeting held at the Christchurch Yacht Club on a beautiful balmy evening.

The club overlooks the estuary, it was picture perfect. I had no idea there were so many H28’s in the area, especially those with young families, til David compiled a list. It was a wonderful “get to know you Ice Breaker”.

We kicked off the season on Sunday 20th November with a short sail to Little Port Cooper, the last bay on the south side of Lyttleton Harbour before venturing into the South Pacific Ocean. It is a pleasant bay surrounded by high hills. Many years ago there was community living there. All that remains today is the old school house set behind a small sandy beach and few old wooden piles, which once formed a wharf. Like most of the bays on Banks Peninsula it is good holding ground but quite exposed to the prevailing Northerly winds.

The weather forecast said gusty NW winds and 26 degrees. Fortunately the gusty bit didn’t eventuate.

 The fleet assembled at 10 a.m. by the eastern lead beacon. Initially there were three H28’s, Weypago - Mike Hollibar and crew Alex (Madman) and his cobber Edward. Then there was Sabina-Mike Scott- sailing solo. Sabina is a beautiful wooden H28. Lastly there was yours truly sailing Trail Blazer also sailing solo. It wasn’t long before 2 more H28’s joined us- Arthur and Sandra Inns (Solitude II) and Shardeloes (John and Phillipa Ashby with their crew Alice and Lloyd).

Mike Scott - “Sabina”

Mike Hollibar - “Weypago”

John and Phillipa Ashby - “Shardeloes”

Walter Savage - “Trail Blazer” at Little Port Cooper

It was thought prudent because of the NW forecastto anchor well away from the sandy beach. Instead we went ashore on the rocky eastern side of the bay, which proved a bit of a trick. At this point Solitude II had to leave us. They are making a custom built wooden Dodger, and a fitting of same was scheduled later in the day.

 With the BBQ set up and ready, I discovered I had forgotten to bring ashore the matches and a knife. Madman Alex and Edward after a bit of pressure rowed out to Weypago to fetch these very necessary items. After demolishing several hot dogs and onions with tomato sauce the young folk, I hate the term “kids”, went off beachcombing and rock climbing.  Alice enjoyed a swim.

The view across the bay and west towards Lyttleton was quite stunning under cloudless sky. All in all it was a very enjoyable laid back day. ‘Til next time…

“Weypago” off Lyttelton

May all your Jacks be starboard.