Kate Restoration Newsletter
Since our re-launch last February the main emphasis has been on fund-raising. Waiheke Rotary came up with a generous $5,000, and this we put to good use finishing some re-framing work, strengthening joints in the deck, fibreglassing it and installing the porthole glasses.
Altex Paints have again been generous, supplying their products at a very good price.
The Moruroa slide show gave me an enjoyable chance to share old memories, and made a profit of $901, and the raffle raised almost $2,000 thanks to Bill Kinghorn’s organising and all those who sold tickets. This we spent on completing the fore ‘scuttle’, a raised hatchway that gives standing headroom below. It’s nice to be building new rather than repairing the old, and will look good once painted and the wood trim oiled. Its rather boxy appearance will be hidden once the new bulwarks are in place.
So now the rain is kept out, and we can lock the Kate up, useful steps forward.
The winter was marred by Auckland Council attaching very nasty letters to the Kate and several other boats, requiring us to move or face possible fines. This posed a dilemma, as the only ‘legal’ mooring area is out in the middle of the inlet, where work on her would be impossible. The Local Board has been supportive and helpful, and we are presently securely moored between the two houseboats, handy for running open days and sausage sizzles on the grass nearby.
Negotiations for the longer term are ongoing; we hope to secure a berth near where we used to be, once the new Boating Club sea wall and hardstand are completed.
Other funding applications are in the pipeline, and there are several minor jobs to do as funds permit. We hope to be able to tackle the re-building of the stern early next year.
To all who have supported us, our sincere thanks. And to anyone thinking of donating – this is for the future of Waiheke.
Cheers, Bernard.