South to Hervey Bay

Thursday, 8 September to Friday, 16 September 2022

We made an early start from Scawfell Island as we had 80 nm to cover to get to Hunter Island - our destination for the day. The moderate easterly breeze was perfect for our genoa and we made good time until 1615 when the breeze died and we started an engine. 

The white stone of Marble Is. seen from the passage with Hunter Is.

On Friday, our original plan was to try to get to Great Keppel Island a distance of 90 nm. Unfortunately the winds and tides weren't cooperating and after motor-sailing and then motoring in the light northerly, we put into Perforated Point at the northern end of Port Clinton. We knew we had good internet here, and we could watch the Lions have a memorable semi-final win over Melbourne at the MCG.

Perforated Point anchorage

With the wind going to the south on Sunday for several days, we decided to make for Pancake Creek on Saturday to sit out the blow. This meant a VERY long day - 111 nm and anchor down at 0030 on Sunday morning, motor sailing and motoring in the light northerly.

Pancake Creek

It was worth it however as Pancake Creek is a favourite of ours. Warren's small whiting that he caught on the way up had grown and we enjoyed exploring by kayak. We had 5 nights here waiting for the wind to go back to the E/NE.

Kayak across to Jenny Lind Creek

Jenny Lind Creek

Our 10km kayak route 

Finally after 5 days, we ventured out of the creek and headed for the Burnett River. Then on Friday we sailed under spinnaker into Hervey Bay and tied up at the Great Sandy Straits Marina. Good timing to watch the Lions/Geelong Preliminary final and get ready for the arrival of our family to hopefully see some whales with us. 

Sadly the Lions run at the flag ended on Friday night!

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