Tony and Lyn Harland, Ivan Scott, Bruce Morris, Mark Edwards and Ian Kirk at Sandy Beach camping area with wooden craft in the background.
In late April the waters of the SMBI were graced by boats from the Wooden Boat Association of Queensland.
These boats were participating in a camp cruise of the waters from Macleay Island south to Jumpinpin. They travelled from the Brisbane area, the Redlands and even Boreen Point, with the Redland Bay Amateur Fishing club providing secure parking.
Russell Island’s Lions Boulevard Park was the destination for the dinghy shore campers with cabin boats anchoring nearby. One couple stayed in a house just up the hill. ‘Incredible,’ they said. ‘to rent such a nice home in Sydney with a view to match that, would cost you $1000 per night.’
The Main and Canaipa Passages and south to Jumpinpin were explored with light breezes sometimes necessitating motoring. The autumn weather was amazing with the water sparkling and birdlife abundant.
Evening gatherings over dinner and visits from the friendly locals were enjoyed in the shelter shed. One such local displayed his radio controlled yacht and gave a talk about the sport.
From Russell Island the fleet headed north to Dalpura Bay, Macleay Island, enjoying a picnic lunch en route at a little sandy beach on the western corner of Karragarra Island. The local participants were told how fortunate they were to live such a unique lifestyle on these wonderful islands in glorious waterways. "You’ve only just scratched the surface," the visitors were told. "Can’t wait for more camp grounds and to come back," they replied.
That night, eleven happy sailors headed to Club Macleay for a sumptuous dinner, proving that small camp grounds can create Eco Tourism that benefits the island communities. The group's thanks go to Phil and Pam for fitting them in on short notice.
The much enjoyed cruise finished the next day with a gentle trip back to Weinam Creek.
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