The second Bunbury Cruise departed on Friday 3rd February. The fleet comprising s/v’s, The Wizard and Georgia from Hillarys, Rumtum and Leola from S of PYC, Lupara, Fluerette, CalypsoV, Mandalay, Morning Tide and new cab of the rank Harmony, from FSC. The event was a great success and is now firmly anchored in the cruising calendar.

Poem by Elizabeth Rummins

When planning for the ’06 Cruise
Just what to do was Peter’s muse -
Some sailing legs, fine radio skegs
“No change of plans again!” Jean begs.
The dates were questioned and then set. Suggestions noted, people met,
The venues checked and routes defined.
Next some competitions came to mind.

The Roll Call went from boat to boat,
‘Harmony’, ‘Lupara’, ‘Calypso V’, all afloat,
‘Mandalay’, ‘Fleurette’ so pretty, ‘Georgia’ fine,
Look, all ‘Morning Tide’s family has arrived to dine-
‘The Wizard’, ‘Leola’, ‘Rumtum’ too, now lets begin without delay
To enjoy the hospitality at Koombana Bay.
Some skippers joined Wednesday’s Twilight Sailing
On boats far tender, causing fear and muscles failing.

Bunbury’s attractions were seen once more
Restaurants, films, dolphin viewing close to shore.
A picnic breakfast, eggs, bacon and Champagne -
Quick harbour trip and back home dry again.
Gas barbeque for those Sundowner meals,
Yes, Merv and Lee know just how it feels
When back by dinghy they did roam
To see ‘Leola’ strayed far from anchored home!

Once more the weather dealt its lethal blow
To Cape Naturaliste sail boats just could not go
So crews spent hot day in Marina confined,
With ‘Georgia’ and ‘The Wizard’ just behind.Some haggling, waggling, plans yet again reviewed-
Verandah dining, tables, chairs, and yarns ensued.
Clothes washing, fresh showers, all enjoyed
Boats sparkling, batteries charged, and spirits buoyed.

Colleen and Howard planned a vineyard trip,
Fine pottery, gardens, luncheon, wines to sip,
From Geographe Bay to leave at noon
(The more the merrier if there’s room)
Meet at the gate by Peri’s coach,
Just in time for Peg and John’s approach. Cellars visited, tasting had, bottles chosen - good and bad.
Yes, another enjoyable day was what we all had.

Time constraints and those unplanned dates
Meant early departures, farewells to mates.
Well wishes abound for the Homeward Leg
Fine sailing, few motor spells, good waters beg.
We’ll gather once more in March together
Discussing the plans, the time, the weather,
Then we’ll all toast the winning picture
And plan next February’s Annual Fixture.

Click to view poetry in pictures