Posts Tagged ‘Bass Strait’

Sydney to Hobart: the Youngest Tasmanian Female Skipper

by Laura Roper

I am the youngest ever Tasmanian female skipper to complete the Rolex Sydney to Hobart (in 5 days 3 minutes and 12 seconds and at 22 years of age!).  My name is Laura Roper and I am very happy to claim that title.

Laura Roper takes the helm of Natelle Two in the Sydney to Hobart

Sailing from Hobart

With a delivery crew of three sailors and a very keen aunty we left the Derwent Sailing Squadron in Sandy Bay Hobart on the 14th of December 2011 at 10am.  We waved goodbye and Merry Christmas to all those who had come to see us off.  Everyone that came had done something to help me achieve my dream;  from cooking, sponsorship (MountainView Meadery, The Metz Sandy Bay and Clarence Joint Therapy), aligning me with the A21 Campaign or just believing in me.  They were all there!  With one more lot of kisses, very tight hugs and the biggest smile that had ever crossed my face, we left Hobart.  And on time too!

Cruise Ships, Wildlife and Sunsets

We threw off the mooring lines and headed south down the river.  As I realised what I was about to be a part of, the excitement really set in.  We rounded Tasman Island later that afternoon and as we headed up towards the bottom of Maria Island we were overtaken by the cruise ship that had also left Hobart that day.  As Aunty Ruth contemplated jumping ship for happy hour we settled in for our first night.

A cruise ship departing Hobart overtakes the Natelle Two near Maria Island

The trip up the coast was beautiful but unfortunately not much wind, so the motor was going most of the way.  Between the four of us, we spotted various forms of wildlife:  birds, dolphins, whales and sharks.  We crossed Bass Strait with some lovely sunset views and without a hint of treacherous water in sight.

No treacherous waters in Bass Strait, just a gorgeous sunset vista!

Return to Eden

We pulled into Eden after crossing The Strait for a bit of R&R.  We stayed the afternoon and night and set out at 6am the next morning (Sunday).  As it turned out this was to be the longest day and night of my life!  The winds made 40 knots across the deck that night and I wasn’t really looking at the wave height.  I was too busy trying to keep myself awake and warm;  but I’m sure they were high.  In about 20 hours we had travelled about 50 nautical miles (in other words, not very far).  The next day, the same distance took us 6 hours.

Then the decision was made to head back to Eden.  We had broken the main traveller, lost a halyard and the main halyard had begun to break.  Luckily these were all easily fixed, and I was finally able to sleep for a few hours after being awake for 40.  The rest of the delivery trip was uneventful and we cruised quietly into Sydney on the evening of Wednesday the 19th of December.

The Sydney Harbour Bridge: the Natelle Two crew finally arrives for the start of the race

The Sydney Whirlwind

The following few days were a whirlwind of getting the boat up to scratch, talking to media, seeing friends, safety inspections and catching up on the week of news I had missed.  Then came Boxing Day.  My day started at 5:45am.   Up early to have the final shower I was to have for five days and get myself ready for the media.  That morning I had the 6:30am time slot on live ABC TV, then on to ABC Radio live, Sky Sports News and Fox Sports News.

The final skippers and navigators briefing was at 10am.  This was where we got our final look at the weather systems moving about the coast and what we were to expect in the coming days.  Starting with a NE and turning to a southerly up to 35 knots that evening.  The weather bureau predicted this to last a couple of days and for the wind to then swing back to the north east.  We were also to expect large swell due to the cyclone that was moving through northern Australia.  With a quick good luck wish to Jessica Watson it was back to the boat to get ready.

A21 Campaign

One of the A21 Campaign staff members came to meet me and thank me for my work in helping to raise awareness about the horrors of human trafficking for the sex trade.  We carried their logo on our main sail as well as the hull of the boat and on our shirts, in the hope of helping young women that are experiencing something that I can’t even begin to comprehend and still struggle to understand.

From the Harbour to The Heads

We set off from the yacht club and the nerves began to set in.  We left early to go out and have a crew meeting in peace and quiet.  This is when we allocated jobs in the case of an emergency, notified the crew of their watches and addressed any questions anyone had.  Soon enough it was 12:30.  The nerves increased along with the number of boats and number of helicopters.

We had done our sail past with our storm sails and informed the committee of how many crew we had.  It wasn’t long before the 10 minute gun went and I don’t really remember much from then until we got out of The Heads.  I know I was shaking for part of it, as I nearly tacked into another boat, which would have spelled a very short end to months of work and years of dreams.  We were the last boat to start but we had 628 nautical miles to catch up and luckily some boats crossed the line too soon, so they were required to turn back and go through the start line again.

The next thing I really remember was rounding the seaward mark outside The Heads and heading for home!  The helicopters continued to buzz overhead and the spectator craft had taken off with the super maxis, so luckily we didn’t have to deal with their white wash too much once outside The Heads.

Thunder, Lightning & Other Challenges

As we headed down the NSW coast we settled in for the first watch of the night.  The change came in sooner than predicted and I wish I had pictures for you of the spectacular cloud that rolled in with the southerly.  I was too busy and it was a bit wet to take photos!  Along with the southerly change came a thunderstorm which gave some spectacular lightning, although being in the middle of the ocean with a big metal pole (the mast) sticking up in the air isn’t the most comforting place to be in the middle of an electrical storm!!

The mast of Natelle Two, causing the youngest Tasmanian female skipper some concern!

For the next two nights not much sleep was had; we found every leak that Natelle Two had plus some.  My brother was severely sea sick and Dad realised he had missed a couple of our scheduled radio contacts.  We were supposed to call in at midnight and listen on a different channel at midday.  Well Dad got them mixed up and in the end the sailing committee whacked us with a 60 minute penalty, even after Dad’s explanation and apology.

Dream Bass Strait Crossing

We had another dream crossing of Bass Strait and I am yet to believe the stories I’ve heard.  As we hit the Tasmanian coast and day began to break, the winds were perfect.  We put up a spinnaker and ran all the way to the bottom of Maria Island doing up to 12 knots as we surfed down the waves.  It was during these days I char-grilled my feet…  I forgot to put sunscreen on them, and would come to regret that when returning to work.  We also learned that water had gotten into the motor, stopping it from starting.  With Dad and Ashley on the job, we all held our breath until it finally spluttered to life.  This was the only real issue we had during the whole race.

On Friday we had lamb roast as we ran down the coast and moved closer to home.  It wasn’t long before Tasman Island was in view once again, and we were only 40 nautical miles from finishing.  The next major land mark was the Iron Pot.  As we approached, we realised we would have a little competition on our way up the river in the form of the yacht Aurora.  After a tacking duel around The Pot, we separated a little and were able to concentrate on our own race.

Welcome landmarks as the crew of Natelle Two round the Iron Pot south of Hobart

The Welcome Sight of Home

It was at this point the spectator craft began to appear.  My other brother Cameron and his girlfriend came to meet us at The Pot to take some photos, along with some other boats that had come to take in the sights.  I even got to wave to Mum from a distance who was standing on the beach.  This was the first real sign of civilisation for nearly five days and I couldn’t wipe the smile off my face as home came into view.  We had a lovely run up the river until Opossum Bay where we ran out of wind for about an hour.  Luckily we had some friends come out to meet us for a chat, while we finished off Mum’s homemade pies.

A Happy Hero’s Welcome

As the sea breeze came in we put up the spinnaker and headed for the finish line!  Unfortunately Aurora got away from us in the lighter winds and beat us home.  But nothing could detract from doing 11 knots over the finish line under spinnaker.  As we packed up the boat we got instructions on where we would moor in Kings Pier and about doing a sail past next to the Taste Festival.  I cannot even begin to describe the feeling of coming into my home town with everyone stopping their lunch to stand up just to clap and cheer me and my crew coming home.  It was at this point I discovered my smile could get bigger.

Natelle Two arrives home to a huge welcome from the crowds at the Taste Festival

We then headed for our berth with a prime spot next to the main jetty that everyone walks along.  I then saw a sea of red shirts on the backs of everyone that I knew and had supported me through out the past 12 months.  The announcer came over the speaker to welcome us home just as we were tying up and at that point I knew I had finished.  For the first time in my life I was the one being welcomed, not doing the welcoming!  Writing of this moment still gets me excited, with a smile on my face almost as big as the original.  The hugs and kisses ensued and I got to see my family for the first time since I left.  It may have only been two weeks but it felt like forever!

Officially the Youngest Tasmanian Female Skipper

The drinks began to flow and media began to descend, wanting to interview the youngest Tasmanian female skipper to finish the Sydney to Hobart.  Unfortunately they stuck around long enough to snap me being thrown in by my trusty crew.  It wasn’t long until the hype started to die down and I was able to focus on getting home for a shower!

Sydney to Hobart celebrations for the crew of Natelle Two at the finish

Laura Roper was treated to the customary dunking at the finish of the Sydney to Hobart

As the youngest Tasmanian female skipper ever, Laura had a lot of media attention

It was an experience and a half, and I cant wait to go again.  Now that I’m already the youngest Tasmanian female skipper, maybe just as crew next time.  But right now, I am going to enjoy the little things in life… showers, flushing toilets, deodorant and CLEAN undies!

Photo Credits

Laura Roper, Ruth Heather, Val Lamont, Aleisha Duggan, Amberly Ford

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Tasmanian Gourmet Hampers

by Michelle Kneipp Pegler

Tasmanian Gourmet Hampers shop in East Devonport, near the Spirit of Tasmania terminal

I recently spent the morning with Susanne from Tasmanian Gourmet Hampers, located in Murray Street, East Devonport.  Right near the Spirit Of Tasmania!  Tasmanian Gourmet Hampers is a retail and online business specialising in genuine Tasmanian products sourced from producers throughout this beautiful state of ours.

Susanne only uses products that are 100% Tasmanian in the Gourmet Hampers

Tourism and All Things Tasmanian!

Susanne has a BA (Hons) in Tourism Management and has over 20 years experience in management, tourism, hospitality and customer service.  She also has a passionate and enthusiastic approach to her business, tourism and all things Tasmanian.  This dynamic lady has many fantastic ideas and plans for future projects which I can’t wait to see unfold and will be an added bonus to this exciting business.

Gift wrapped Tasmanian Gourmet Hampers to collect or have mailed for you

Tasmanian Gourmet Hampers are elegantly packaged in glossy black reusable boxes with hot pink ribbon for the ladies and silver for the men (or let them know your thoughts and they will gift-wrap accordingly.)  You can choose from carefully created ready-to-go hampers or select your own items for that personal touch.

There’s a wide range of Tasmanian gourmet products to choose from and they make an ideal birthday, anniversary or Christmas gift. Just let them know what you need and where you need it delivered and they will do the rest.  You can also pick up pre-ordered gourmet breakfast requirements or picnic hampers.  What a great way to start the day!

Speak to Susanne about your selection of gourmet products for a truly Tasmanian Hamper

Spirit of Tasmania Passenger Ferries

The Tasmanian Gourmet Hampers shop has opening hours coinciding with the Spirit of Tasmania sailings which makes it a great place to stop and buy truly Tasmanian products.  Why not phone ahead and pre-order a hamper to pick up on your way on or off the ferry.  Or if you are looking for a corporate gift alternative, one of these hampers would be a great choice.  There are a number of sizes to choose from and you can make it as individual as you want.

Tourists can also purchase gourmet Tasmanian products as individual souvenirs

There’s visitor information here as well for all your touring needs.  You’ll be able to find out information about accommodation, tours, where to eat, etc and Tasmanian Gourmet Hampers also act as a referral service to tourism related businesses throughout Tasmania.  While visiting the shop have a look at the Tasmanian-made non-edible products such as Pure Sense Candles and Saward Glass Art.

To get in touch with Susanne at Tasmanian Gourmet Hampers phone: 0405 625 032 or find them on Facebook.

Products are beautifully presented in black boxes with either silver or hot pink trim

Michelle Kneipp Pegler writes a blog called Leven River Farm
about the ups and downs of her Good Life
and occasional forays delving into the lessons of the past.

If you like this article about Tasmania, and you’d like to read more, just subscribe to our newsletter or join us on Facebook.  If you really like this article, and you want others to see it, you can choose one of the “share” options below.  We’d love that!

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Map: Tasmanian Gourmet Hampers, East Devonport…

A dozen Ulverstone photos have just been posted on our Facebook page.  Every week we feature five pages as a special theme.  This week happens to be “Ulverstone” week in our social media world.  We’re asking our followers to add their comments about each one so we can share the love about the north-west town.

Ulverstone Photos: Facebook Campaign

If you’d like to make a contribution, but you abstain from the time-consuming monster that is Facebook, just leave a reply at the bottom of this article.  Of course, you’re welcome to add your business name if you think it’s relevant.  Who knows… one of our readers might be a customer looking for whatever it is you’re selling!

Why have we chosen Ulverstone photos specifically, I hear you ask?  Mainly because we’ve had lots of positive feedback about the place following Michelle’s Ulverstone spotlight article.  But also because we’ll be heading that way soon, and we want to pick as many brains as possible about the coastal community.

Great Original Idea: New Feature?

If this interactive article turns out to be one of our better ideas, we’ll feature other towns in a similar manner down the track.  Of course, it all depends on you, the reader, and your reaction.  No comments… no need for us to go to all this effort.  Simple!  If you have a burning wish to see your town or region featured in this way, just contact Think Tasmania.

But let’s just see how the Ulverstone photos perform.  We have lots of ideas; but it turns out they’re not all as brilliant as we imagine.  Go figure!  Of course, if we see similar versions popping up all over the place, we’ll know we’re on an absolute winner!!  Imitation being the highest form of flattery and all that.

Ulverstone Photos: How to Contribute

I’ll give each of the Ulverstone photos a caption with a number, for you to refer to in your comments.  If you’re responding, you might like to use a technique like this…

• Photo 1 – The chicken schnitzel at the pub is the best in Tasmania
  from Bob (Bald Man’s Haircuts)
• Photo 10 – My uncle was responsible for the design of the clock tower
  from Jenny (Hop Step & Jump Games)
• Photo 4 – We noticed a stick hut on the east coast near Scamander
  from Milo (Cool House B&B)

You might prefer to show off your own stunning Ulverstone photos.  Just let us know if that’s the case.  But right now we’re going to stop adding options to this plan and just add the promised dozen.  Otherwise we’ll be overwhelmed with too much work.  Looking forward to hearing from you!

Ulverstone Photos - 1

Roger:  A grand old building built in the same style as so many others to be found around Oz.  (Roger Findlay is one of our regular team members)

Carol:  Built in 1903, and believe it or not, the underground cellar in this hotel was once used as a temporary morgue to accommodate a body!  (Carol is the owner of Haberle Photo Cards)

Ulverstone Photos - 2

Ulvestone Photos - 3

Ulverstone Photos - 4

Ulverstone Photos - 5

Ulverstone Photos - 6

Ulverstone Photos - 7

Ulverstone Photos - 8

Ulverstone Photos - 9

Susan:  will be there in just under 6 weeks!! Can’t wait to try Pedros for lunch.

Roger:  we always sit at the table three windows in on the left hand side.  (Roger Findlay is one of our regular team members)

Moonlight:  we have enjoyed many a beautiful dinner at Pedro’s Restaurant ourselves and also recommend it to our guests at Moonlight Bay B&B Guest House.  Delicious seafood, great views over the Leven river and really nice atmosphere.  Very friendly staff and owner.

Ulverstone Photos - 10

Lynn:  really like the gentle carillion clock that rings from here (Lynn Gorman is one of our guest authors: Novelty Mailboxes)

Victor:  hmmm..interesting clock structure. not sure to like it or not. (Victor is the author of the terrific food and travel blog I Destination)

Carol:  Constructed as a memorial to those who served in World War 2, the memorial clock also incorporates the World War 1 memorial which stood on the same site.  Designed and constructed by European migrants, the clock tower is unique in Australia.  The construction incorporates features representing the three armed forces, RAAF, RAN, RAA, linked together by chains and surmounted by a traditional laurel wreath.  (Carol is the owner of Haberle Photo Cards)

Prue:  I love hearing the hourly vintage chimes of our beautiful old clock whilst working around the corner in our 100% Tasmanian handmade gallery Under The Oak, makes me feel like I’m somewhere in England…

Charles:  We love this clock and its tower.  In particular we love the look of the whole thing at certain angles when it looks as though the clock is offset from the centre of the top of the tower.  A remarkable building.  Just how lucky can Ulverstoners get?

Ulverstone Photos - 11

Ulverstone Photos - 12

Karina:  fantastic and interesting museum with loads of local history!  Well done to the members of the community who put it all together and maintain it all so well.  So valuable for the community!  Thanks!

Wayne:  They all great photos and this is one of the towns we will be visiting on our next holiday in Tasmania. (Wayne is one of our guest authors)

Bohemian Beauty: Happy Australia Day to Think Tasmania!  You are doing a great job for all of us!  Thank you! (Bohemian Beauty is one of the five pages featured during the Ulverstone theme week)

Some of these Ulverstone photos were taken by Dan Fellow of Tasmania Photos.
Photo 7 was supplied by Tony and Val of Ulverstone River Retreat.
We hope you enjoy the terrific images whether you comment or not!

If you like this article about Tasmania, and you’d like to read more, just subscribe to our newsletter or join us on Facebook.  If you really like this article, and you want others to see it, you can choose one of the “share” options below.  We’d love that!

Comments relevant to this article are also very welcome, just leave a reply below.

Map: Ulverstone Tasmania…

Ten Things That Attract Me to Tasmania

by Roger Findlay

If you asked me to name ten things that attract me to Tasmania as a holiday-maker I would come up with the following:

1. Beauty of the island, breath-taking scenery and clean air.
   

   The breath-taking scenery and clean country air of Tasmania

2. Temperature and climate, most suitable for a Pommy!
3. Unspoilt places.  Slow to exploit tourism through changes.
   

   The pristine wilderness, another Tasmanian attraction high on Roger's top ten

4. Sailing on the Spirit of Tasmania.  It’s a great experience every time.
5. Salamanca Market and any farmers market that we find along the way.
6. Food: especially seafood, cheese and beef.
   

   Roger enjoys the Tasmanian produce, including seafood, cheese and beef.

7. Pubs: Knopwoods, Shippies and the Royal Oak.  Gunners Arms – R.I.P.
8. Fish punts, Tassal and the Wursthaus.
9. Walking on the deserted beaches.  Douglas River springs to mind.
   

   Beaches make Roger's list of top ten attractions for holiday-makers in Tasmania

10. People we’ve met and friends we’ve made…
    The Madsden family, Patricia, Eddie & Dulcie, to name a few.

That’s ten things that attract me to Tasmania but there are so many more.

People often ask me why I choose to travel and holiday in Tasmania so much.  They often ask whether I get tired of visiting the same place year after year.  My answer is always the same; but I don’t have to change my lifestyle to suit them or anyone else.

I must confess that in recent weeks, I have been toying with the idea of a first visit to New Zealand.  I’m sure it is a very beautiful country with the South Island being exceptional, but for now I have unfinished business in Tasmania so NZ will have to wait until I retire in a few years’ time.

I first visited Tasmania in the mid 80’s.  I was chasing a job at the ACL plant in Launceston but it didn’t lead to anything except a brief look at the island.  The drive north and then down the east coast to Hobart convinced me that this was the place for me and I’ve been obsessed ever since.

Beware: Sub-Standard Accommodation

There is only one criticism that I have to make and that is the rapidly increasing price of accommodation.  Some of it is mediocre and we have found a few of our hosts unsuited to the hospitality industry.

Beware!  Don’t be fooled by some of the places you find on the internet.  The photos and write-ups published by the owners themselves can make the accommodation look most attractive; when in reality it can be well below expectation.  If you do get caught out, don’t put up with it.  Let the owner know of your objections and demand a refund.  Then take your business elsewhere.

Rustic accommodation! Beware the tourist of the internet booking...

Beware Tasmania!  Don’t price yourself out of the market.  It is a fact that I can holiday in Vietnam or Thailand cheaper than Tasmania but that’s not for me.  However, when it comes to the decision of others, the attraction of a cheap overseas holiday may be their choice.

To attract the tourist keep the price reasonable, ensure good quality and make it so that the visitor wants to return.

Photos that accompany Roger’s article titled
Ten Things That Attract Me to Tasmania
have been taken by Dan Fellow of Tasmania Photos.

If you like this article about Tasmania, and you’d like to read more, just subscribe to our newsletter or join us on Facebook.  If you really like this article, and you want others to see it, you can choose one of the “share” options below.  We’d love that!

Comments relevant to this article are also very welcome, just leave a reply below.

Ulverstone in the Spotlight

by Michelle Kneipp Pegler

With a population of around 12,000, the town of Ulverstone on the North West Coast of Tasmania still retains that small town feel.  It is located between the larger cities of Burnie and Devonport and is situated on the mouth of the beautiful Leven River.  With gorgeous beaches right on its doorstep, Ulverstone is an ideal place to live or visit.  It is under the municipality of the Central Coast Council, which also encompasses the towns of Penguin, Turners Beach, Leith, Gawler and Forth.

Ulverstone, located on the north west coast between Burnie and Devonport

Living or Staying in Ulverstone

Ulverstone has all the amenities you’re likely to need:  four primary schools, one high school plus a school that caters for K to Year 12.  You will also find all professional services such as doctors, dentists, and optometrists, solicitors, etc.  If you are looking for accommodation there are four motels and two hotels catering for guests, as well as two caravan parks.  Other great accommodation options are Ulverstone River Retreat, Winterbrook B&B, Boscobel Of Ulverstone B&B, Westella House and Moonlight Bay B&B.

The main street shopping precinct of Ulverstone in the north west of Tasmania

Shopping and Eating

If you feel the need to shop there’s Coles, Woolworths and IGA for those grocery items.  Then there are the various gift and craft shops packed full of great bits and pieces and a great array of Tasmanian wares.  If you love looking at antique shops Ulverstone has four fabulous antique shops full of old and interesting objects.

Eating out in Ulverstone is a treat with numerous places to dine, all with great menu options.  Enjoy the seafood and the views across the Leven River at Pedro’s Restaurant, drop in to Lancaster House for coffee, wine and fine food or try one of Deli Central’s tantalizing dishes while checking out their exciting selection of food and gifts.  The Bass & Flinders Motel and the Beachway Motel both have restaurants and you will also find a number of cafes and bakeries in town as well.  So there’s no excuse for not easing those hunger pains while visiting.

Ulverstone Beach

Time to relax on Ulverstone’s beautiful long sandy beach and watch the blue waters of Bass Strait roll in and out.  This is a great beach for walking along and there are plenty of areas to park the car.  Ulverstone has a great Visitor Information Centre located in Alexandra Road, which is open 7 days a week.  Here you will find all the information you need about things to see and do in and around Ulverstone and surrounding areas.

The magnificent sandy beaches of the Ulverstone region, perfect for relaxing

Michelle Kneipp Pegler writes a blog called Leven River Farm
about the ups and downs of her Good Life
and occasional forays delving into the lessons of the past.

If you like this article about Tasmania, and you’d like to read more, just subscribe to our newsletter or join us on Facebook.  If you really like this article, and you want others to see it, you can choose one of the “share” options below.  We’d love that!

Comments relevant to this article are also very welcome, just leave a reply below.

Map: Ulverstone Tasmania…

Exploring Currie Harbour Lighthouse, King Island

by Roger Findlay

If ever you find yourself in Currie on King Island, part of the north west region of Tasmania, I would suggest that you make enquiries about a lighthouse tour.  We found out about it when we went to the Currie Library to browse books and use the internet.

The township of Currie, King Island in the north west region of Tasmania

Book Lighthouse Tour.  Tick.

We booked a tour and met our guide at the lighthouse the following day.  It always amazes me how versatile people are in somewhat remote places and our tour guide was no exception.  Apart from being an occasional guide, this charming lady (originally from Wangaratta in Victoria) worked at the school and at the library.  Her husband managed their farm and she was quite capable of helping in between her other duties.

Currie Harbour Lighthouse

The elevated lighthouse stands alongside the entrance to Currie Harbour and serves the dual purpose of a harbour entrance light and a coastal light.  An English company pre-fabricated the structure from wrought iron with a cast iron base before shipping to King Island for construction in 1879.

Currie Harbour Lighthouse on King Island in the north west region of Tasmania

It was lit the following year but it wasn’t until 1957 that mains power was used.  In 1989, the authorities considered the light unnecessary and it was switched off.  Locals resisted this action and, after much lobbying, the light was restored to operable in 1995.

The Brave & Noble Tourist

I’m not comfortable with steep spiral staircases or heights but on this occasion I had to put on a brave face to outdo my very brave and nimble wife!  I let her go first with me in the middle and the guide at the rear.  By doing this, I thought I would be safe if I happened to fall!

Jeanette Findlay handles the spiral staircase of the lighthouse tour with ease!

It made me feel dizzy looking up from the bottom.  The challenge entailed 90 narrow steel steps winding to a height of 21.3 metres.  Jeanette had seen me crossing a rickety suspension bridge at Montezuma Falls.  She had seen my face turn green.  Now she was gloating again! (How could Mr Perfect be outdone?)

View Over Currie

The steady climb was well worth it as the view down to Currie Harbour, the Boat House and over to the township was magnificent.  Despite the wintry conditions and the spray from the rain on the lighthouse glass, our guide could point out all of the interesting features.  She also had excellent knowledge of the old light systems and lenses that were on display.

The lighthouse tour guide can point out features: like a burnt out Boat House

Not too bad going up but how would I go coming down?  Being the only male, I considered it rather chivalrous to let the ladies go first!  To my relief we made the bottom without incident and now I have this tale of the Currie Harbour lighthouse tour to tell (and photos to share!).

Currie Harbour views from the top of the King Island lighthouse

Lighthouse Tour, Keeper’s Residence & Museum

On a separate occasion, we visited the magnificent grounds of the lighthouse keeper’s residence that is now used as a museum.  The stark white buildings are kept in immaculate condition and stand as a prominent landmark on the western side of King Island.

As we drove back towards the Naracoopa Holiday Units where
we were staying, Jeanette hinted that she would like a spiral staircase
in our next home.  Blimey, it’s hard enough finding her in the king
sized bed let alone chasing her up a spiral staircase!

If you like this article about Tasmania, and you’d like to read more, just subscribe to our newsletter or join us on Facebook.  If you really like this article, and you want others to see it, you can choose one of the “share” options below.  We’d love that!

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Map: Currie Harbour Lighthouse, King Island, Tasmania…

Super maxi Investec Loyal has taken line honours in the 2011 Rolex Sydney Hobart Yacht Race.  But not without a fight.  Firstly, they had to hold off a strong challenge from pre-race favourite Wild Oats XI.  And then their victory dance was put on hold due to a protest by the Sydney to Hobart race committee.

Investec Loyal is inspected by crowds after the Rolex Sydney Hobart yacht race

Investec Loyal v Wild Oats XI

Having taken Sydney to Hobart line honours on five previous occasions, Wild Oats XI was the boat to beat this year.  And that’s exactly what Investec Loyal managed to do, by the smallest of margins.  After a see-sawing duel down the east coast of southern Australia, across Bass Strait and continuing down the east coast of Tasmania, the winning margin was just three minutes.  And eight seconds, to be precise.

Investec Loyal inches in front of Wild Oats XI in the Derwent River, Hobart

It’s hard to imagine a race sailed over 600 nautical miles could still be up for grabs at the end.  But the crowds lining the Hobart waterfront and elsewhere along the Derwent River, were treated to a thrilling conclusion.  There was a hive of activity on the river and in the air, as boats, helicopters and the local sea plane escorted both super maxi yachts to the finish line.

Supporters surround Investec Loyal as she approaches the Hobart finish line

Rolex Sydney Hobart Protest

The support team of Investec Loyal, waiting on tenterhooks in Hobart for the arrival of the crew, would probably have liked the margin to be a bit larger.  And just when they thought they’d won; when the champagne corks were popped; news of a protest started to filter through.

Investec Loyal had a large contingent of supporters in Hobart

Apparently on day two, Investec Loyal tactician Michael Coxon asked an ABC helicopter crew to confirm which sails were being used by Wild Oats XI.  Receiving outside assistance while the race is underway is against the rules and can be cause for disqualification.

But after a marathon, three-hour hearing before an international jury it was all deemed legal.  It turns out that Michel Coxon (as his day job) makes sails, and that his racing competitor was using his custom designed mainsail.  The jury believed his argument that his query was purely related to professional business, and not an attempt to cheat.

Rolex Sydney Hobart flags, including the line honours flag awarded to Investec Loyal

Celebrity Crew: Loyal Foundation

Anthony Bell, skipper of Investec Loyal, was finally free to celebrate with the rest of his crew.  That crew, besides 16 professionals, included a celebrity contingent…  Karl Stefanovic, Kurt Fearnley, Anthony Minichiello, Phil Kearns and Phil Waugh.  The reason for inviting novice sailors on such a demanding challenge?  To raise the profile of the Loyal Foundation, which aims to give a million dollars each year to charity.  Got to admire that, even if you’re not interested in the multi-million dollar boats.

Anthony Bell's super maxi yacht, raising money for the Loyal Foundation