Captain's Log
V09/08
17 June 2008

HORSESHOE BAY

Ahoy Shipmates,This morning saw everyone awake bright and early and on deck at 0630 to enjoy an Early Morning Activity (EMA). Following a huge YE breakfast the YC were mustered on the port side of the bridge to be introduced to the traditional ceremony of colours (raise the flags and sing National Anthem) before turning to for their first “Happy Hour” (cleaning stations) which they completed with unusual enthusiasm. While these normal activities were taking place the Engineer and Boats Officer proceeded ashore in the Ships Boat to source a new ‘sump pump’ (galley water pump) as during the night this piece of essential machinery decided that it had reached its ‘end of life’ on YE and desperately needed a replacement (I wish it had done so while we were alongside in Townsville). After cleaning stations “Captain Safety” appeared and completed a thorough Ships safety equipment brief which was closely followed by line handling and safety on deck. By early afternoon I had been informed that a new pump was not available in Townsville and that our only option was to have one dispatched from Sydney and that it would be delivered on the 2130 flight tonight (it will be a very late night for Lindsey the Engineer who will have to install this pump during the night). Given this information our only option was to remain at anchor in Horseshoe Bay and continue with as much of the training program as possible. During the afternoon the YC completed some sail setting and furling drills which was followed by the Navigators interesting and interactive lesson in navigation. To finish of the afternoon the rope swing was rigged from the course yard and everyone enjoyed either diving of the bow sprit or utilising the swing for some water acrobatics in the warm waters of Horseshoe Bay. Just prior to dinner everyone mustered in the caf� to celebrate YC member Elise Munyards 22nd Birthday (complete with chocolate mudcake and candles). On completion of dinner everyone sat down to enjoy the legendary tall ship movie “Around Cape Horn”, which was followed by the Navigators informative anchor brief prior to settling in to anchor watches for the night.Tomorrow morning will see us sail from Horseshoe bay and continue our journey north to Orpheous Island, were we now plan to anchor on Thursday morning.Yours AyeCaptain Gav

Latitude/Longitude:

19°6's / 146°51'e

Conditions:

Still at anchor in Horseshoe Bay and experiencing light south easterly winds