The refit
You may have seen the “Kate” on the Boating Club hardstand over Christmas for the annual maintenance, scrub and antifoul. Fortunately there were no major problems, just minor repairs and a topside paint job. Young Oscar Jordan-Wise was employed part-time to help and learn, I showed him the use of a traditional caulking mallet as we caulked a seam.
The refit was financed by a generous donation from the Waiheke Marina, and from the proceeds of our boat gear sale, held on Labour Weekend.
Storm jib
At one of our Committee meetings I expressed the need for a storm jib, to balance the helm in strong winds, and Belinda Gould (yacht “Red Viking”) said ‘I have a spare one’, which she generously donated. It’s a beauty, triple stitched and the clew hand stitched with traditional-style roping and grommet, and it’s just the right size.
The Mahurangi Regatta
We’ll be going again, leaving on Friday 24th January at 1 pm, joining the ‘race’ on Saturday and the BBQ and prize-giving in the evening, then sailing back on Sunday 26th. There are 2 places available, please RSVP soon. A koha is requested unless it’s for juniors.
Thank You and fundraiser cruise in company with “Flying Carpet”.
This was a most enjoyable event last year so we’re repeating it on Waitangi Day, Thursday 6th February. Meet at 10 am at the end of Wharf Road, bring togs and some lunch to share, back around 4 pm. If you have your own boat you’re welcome to join us for lunch on “Flying Carpet”, anchored on the lee side of Motuihe.
A donation to our maintenance fund would be appreciated, via the Give-a-little button on our website, waihekeworkingsail.org.
Future sailings
If you know of any youngsters, age 13 +, who would like to experience traditional sailing, and if you would like to crew yourself, please get in touch. We plan to build up a core of skippers, mates and crew who know the ropes and can keep her going. We plan training day-sails, also working with the Sea Scouts and the High School.
Wishing you good sailing,
Bernard.